Iran

Iran: general info for travelers

Iran is a country located in Western Asia, bordered by Iraq, Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and the Persian Gulf. It is the 18th largest country in the world by area, with a population of about 83 million people. The official language is Persian, and the majority of the population practices Islam.
Iran is known for its rich history dating back to the Persians and the Achaemenid Empire, which ruled from the 6th to the 4th centuries BC. The country is home to many historical and cultural landmarks, such as the ruins of Persepolis, the ancient city of Isfahan, and the city of Shiraz, known for its gardens and poetry.
Iran is also known for producing various commodities such as oil, natural gas, and agricultural products like pistachios and saffron. The country has a diverse landscape, including deserts, mountains, and forests, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.
Although Iran has faced significant political tensions and economic sanctions in recent years, it remains a popular destination for cultural and historical tourism.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Iran, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Iran: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Iran: 1. Tehran: The capital city of Iran is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and cultural heritage. There are many museums, palaces, and gardens to explore, including the Golestan Palace and the National Museum of Iran.
2. Isfahan: Known as the Jewel of Iran, Isfahan is a beautiful city with stunning Islamic architecture, including the Imam Mosque, Chehel Sotoun Palace, and the Naqsh-e Jahan Square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Shiraz: This city is known as the cultural capital of Iran and is home to many famous poets. Its most famous attraction is the ruins of Persepolis, an ancient city founded by King Darius.
4. Yazd: Yazd is a desert city with a unique architecture featuring wind towers and mud-brick buildings. It is also home to the Zoroastrian Fire Temple.
5. Tabriz: Located in the northwest of Iran, Tabriz is one of the oldest cities in Iran. One of its most famous landmarks is the Blue Mosque, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture.
6. Kerman: This city is often referred to as the gateway to the desert and is home to many historical sites, including the Ganjali Khan Complex and the Shazdeh Garden.
7. Mashhad: Mashhad is a pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims as it houses the holy shrine of Imam Reza. It is also known for its beautiful gardens and parks.
These are just a few of the many incredible places to visit in Iran. Each city has its own unique history and architectural wonders, making Iran an amazing destination for any traveler.
There is more to see and do in Iran: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Iran: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Iran, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Iran has a diverse climate due to its varied topography. Generally, the best time to visit Iran is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these seasons, the temperature is usually between 15°C to 25°C, and you can enjoy the blooming of flowers or the changing colors of trees. Summer in Iran (June to August) can be very hot and dry, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C in some parts of the country, especially in the south and southeast. However, if you plan to visit the northern and western regions of Iran, the weather is milder during summer.
Winter in Iran (December to February) can be quite cold, especially in the mountainous areas and the northern regions. However, these months are great for skiing and winter sports.
In summary, the best time to visit Iran depends on what you would like to do and see. Spring and autumn are generally more comfortable for most activities, but summer is a great time to visit the high-altitude mountainous regions. Winter is ideal for skiing and winter sports.

Iran: activities and what to do

There are plenty of activities and sports to enjoy on holiday in Iran, depending on your interests and location. Here are a few popular options: 1. Skiing and snowboarding: If you visit Iran during the winter months, you can hit the slopes at one of the country's ski resorts. The biggest and most popular are Dizin, Shemshak, and Tochal.
2. Trekking and hiking: Iran is home to numerous mountain ranges and national parks that offer excellent trekking and hiking opportunities. Some of the most popular routes include Alamut Valley, Lut Desert, and Mount Damavand, which is the highest peak in Iran.
3. Desert activities: Iran has some of the most picturesque deserts in the world, such as the Dasht-e Lut and Dasht-e Kavir. You can enjoy activities like camel riding, sandboarding, and stargazing in the desert.
4. Water sports: The Caspian Sea and Persian Gulf coastline provide ample opportunities for water sports like swimming, boating, and scuba diving.
5. Cultural activities: Iran has a rich cultural heritage, and you can engage in activities like visiting historical sites, exploring museums, and attending traditional music and dance performances.
These are just some of the many activities and sports to do on holiday in Iran. There's something for everyone to enjoy!

Iran: few words on history and culture

Iran, formerly known as Persia, has a rich history and culture dating back to ancient civilizations. The Iranian plateau was home to some of the world's earliest civilizations, including Elam and the Medes. The Achaemenid Empire, founded in 550 BC, grew to be one of the largest empires in history, encompassing much of the Middle East and beyond. The country has also been home to important dynasties such as the Parthians, Sassanids and Safavids, and has been a center of influence in the Islamic world.
Iranian culture is diverse and includes a variety of influences such as Islamic, Persian, Zoroastrian, and even Russian. Iranian cuisine is famous for its complexity and variety, and Iranian carpets are renowned for their exquisite beauty and quality. Music, poetry, and literature are also important facets of Iranian culture, with luminaries such as Rumi and Hafez producing some of the most enduring works of the Persian language. Religion, particularly Shia Islam, also plays a significant role in Iranian society and culture.

Iran: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transport to reach and visit Iran, depending on where you are coming from and your preferences. The most common ways to reach Iran are by air, land, or sea. If you are coming from another country, flying into Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport is the most convenient option. There are many international airlines that offer flights to Iran, including Iran Air, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and Qatar Airways.
If you prefer to travel overland, you can enter Iran from neighboring countries such as Turkey, Iraq, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Pakistan. There are several land borders with these countries, and you can easily cross by car or bus.
If you are looking for a more unique experience, you can also reach Iran by sea. The ports of Bandar Abbas and Khorramshahr connect Iran to the Persian Gulf, and there are regular ferry services from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other Gulf countries.
Once you are in Iran, the most common means of transport are domestic flights, buses, and trains. Buses are the most popular option for domestic travel, with many companies providing services to all parts of Iran. Trains are slower but offer a more comfortable and scenic experience. To hire a car to visit Iran, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Iran: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Iran with a full stomach:D
Here are some of the typical foods of Iran and their descriptions: 1. Kabab: Kabab is a grilled meat dish that is popular all over Iran. It is usually made with lamb or beef, marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices, and then skewered and grilled over an open flame. 2. Tahchin: Tahchin is a rice dish made with saffron. It is usually layered with chunks of chicken or lamb, yogurt, and eggs. 3. Ghormeh Sabzi: Ghormeh Sabzi is a popular Persian stew made with beef or lamb, beans, and a mixture of fresh herbs such as parsley, coriander, and fenugreek. 4. Fesenjan: Fesenjan is a unique Persian dish made with chicken or lamb, walnuts, and pomegranate paste. It has a sweet and sour flavor and is typically served with rice. 5. Ash Reshteh: Ash Reshteh is a hearty soup made with lentils, beans, noodles, and a variety of herbs and spices. It is often garnished with yogurt and crispy fried onions. 6. Shirin polo: Shirin polo is a sweet and savory rice dish made with saffron, pistachios, almonds, and raisins. It is typically served with meat dishes such as kabab or chicken. 7. Zereshk Polo: Zereshk Polo is a Persian rice dish made with barberries, saffron, and a variety of spices. It is usually served with chicken or lamb. 8. Baghali Polo: Baghali Polo is a fragrant rice dish made with dill and fava beans. It is typically served with lamb or chicken kabab. These are just a few of the typical foods of Iran. The Iranian cuisine is known for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and unique cooking techniques.

Iran: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Iran can be considered a relatively affordable destination for tourists, especially when compared to many other popular travel destinations. However, the cost of traveling in Iran can vary greatly depending on where you go, the time of year you visit, and the type of accommodation and experiences you choose. For example, large cities like Tehran and tourist hotspots like Isfahan and Shiraz tend to have higher prices than smaller towns and villages. Additionally, traveling during peak seasons or holidays can increase the cost of flights and accommodations. Overall, a traveler can manage their expenses very well by planning ahead, using affordable transport options, staying in budget-friendly accommodations, and eating at local restaurants.

Iran: where to find accodation

There are several websites where you can find accommodation options in Iran: 1. Booking.com: This is one of the most popular websites for booking accommodation worldwide. They offer a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury.
2. Agoda: This website offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and apartments.
3. Hostelworld: If you're looking for budget-friendly accommodation options, Hostelworld has a great selection of hostels in Iran.
4. Airbnb: This website is great for finding unique local accommodations such as private apartments or homes in Iran.
5. IranHotelonline.com: This website provides a comprehensive list of hotels across Iran, allowing you to compare prices, amenities, and locations.
It is always best to research and compare various options to find the accommodation that best meets your needs and budget.
You can check hotel prices in Iran here:
Booking.com

Iran: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Iran received approximately 7.3 million international tourists in 2018, which was a significant increase from previous years. The peak tourist season in Iran is generally from late March to early May and from September to November. During these periods, popular tourist destinations such as Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz can be quite crowded. However, with careful planning and booking in advance, it is still possible to have a great experience. It's also worth noting that some areas of the country, such as the northern regions, can be popular during the summer months.
Iran is generally a safe country for tourists, but it is important to exercise caution and be aware of potential risks. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded tourist areas, so it is best to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large sums of money or valuable items with you. It is also important to be respectful of cultural norms and dress modestly, particularly in public places and religious sites. There are some areas in Iran that should be avoided due to safety concerns, particularly near the border with Afghanistan and Pakistan. It is also recommended to avoid areas with high political tensions or protests. It is always a good idea to research and stay up-to-date on any potential safety concerns before planning your trip.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Iran on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Iran: events for tourists

There are several interesting events and festivals throughout the year in Iran that tourists can explore: 1. Nowruz: The Persian New Year is celebrated on the first day of spring (usually around March 20th) and is a major cultural event in Iran.
2. Tehran International Book Fair: Held annually in April, it is one of the largest and most important book fairs in Asia.
3. Fajr International Film Festival: Held in Tehran in February, it is a major cultural event for cinephiles.
4. Rosewater Festival: Held in Kashan in May, it celebrates the harvest of roses and the production of rosewater.
5. Silk Road Festival: This festival is held in the city of Mashhad in August and showcases the cultural diversity of the Silk Road.
6. Qeshm Island Sunrise Festival: In October, the festival is a celebration of the unique natural beauty of Qeshm Island and features traditional music and dance performances.
7. Iranian Carpet Fair: This fair is held annually in August in Tehran and features various handmade Persian carpets.
These events offer an opportunity for travelers to experience the rich cultural heritage of Iran and immerse themselves in the local traditions and customs.

Iran: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Iran, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Iran is a beautiful country with a rich history and diverse culture. Here is a suggested itinerary for a two-week tour of Iran: - Day 1-2: Tehran - Begin your tour in the capital city of Tehran. Spend a day or two exploring the city, visit the museums, mosques, parks, and bazaars.
- Day 3-4: Isfahan - Take a domestic flight or train to Isfahan, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iran. Visit the famous historical sites such as Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Chehel Sotoun Palace, and the Imam Mosque.
- Day 5-6: Yazd - Head to the ancient city of Yazd, located in the heart of Iran. Explore the winding alleys of the ancient city and visit beautiful historical attractions like the Jameh Mosque of Yazd and the Zoroastrian Fire Temple.
- Day 7-8: Shiraz - Continue your journey to the charming city of Shiraz, famous for its Persian gardens, poets, and vineyards. Visit the historical sites such as the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, the Eram Garden, and the Persepolis.
- Day 9-11: The Desert - Travel to the Dasht-e Kavir desert, one of the most popular deserts in Iran. You can take a guided tour of Kalouts, which are natural phenomena in the heart of the desert.
- Day 12-13: Caspian Sea - Travel to the north of Iran, to the Caspian Sea coastline, which is a beautiful vacation spot. Explore the beach villages of Ramsar and Tonekabon.
- Day 14: Return to Tehran - Take a domestic flight or train back to Tehran for your departure.
This itinerary provides you with a comprehensive experience of Iranian history, culture, and natural wonders in two weeks. It's flexible, so it can be modified according to your preferences and available time.

Iran: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Iran described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Abadan is a city located in the southwestern part of Iran, in the province of Khuzestan. It is situated on the Abadan Island in the Persian Gulf, just off the coast of Iran. The city is known for its ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Abadan
- Abyaneh is a historical village located in Iran's central province of Isfahan. It is situated at an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level and is known for its unique architecture, traditional lifes... CONTINUE here for a trip to Abyaneh
- Ahvaz is a city in the southwest of Iran and the capital of Khuzestan province. It is the third-largest city in Iran. Ahvaz has a hot and humid climate with temperatures sometimes reaching 50 °C (122 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ahvaz
- Amol is a city in the Mazandaran Province of Iran. It is located in the northern part of the country, near the Caspian Sea. The city has a rich history and is known for its beautiful landscapes, inclu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Amol
- Ardabil is a city located in the northwestern part of Iran and is the capital of Ardabil Province. It has a population of approximately 530,000 people and is considered one of the oldest continuously ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ardabil
- Bandar Abbas is a port city in southern Iran, situated on the coast of the Persian Gulf. It is the capital of Hormozgan Province and one of the country's major economic hubs due to its busy port and s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bandar Abbas
- Bandar-e Anzali is a coastal city located in the north of Iran, on the southern coast of the Caspian Sea. It is the largest and most important port in the north of Iran and serves as a hub for both ma... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bandar-e Anzali
- Birjand is a city located in the eastern part of Iran, in the South Khorasan province. It has a population of around 150,000 and is known for its historical and cultural attractions. Some popular tour... CONTINUE here for a trip to Birjand
- Borazjan is a city located in the southern region of Iran, specifically in the Bushehr province. It has a population of approximately 170,000 people and is known for its oil reserves that contribute t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Borazjan
- Borujen is a city in the Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province of Iran, located in the Zagros Mountains. It is known for its natural beauty, historic sites, and agriculture. Some popular attractions in B... CONTINUE here for a trip to Borujen
- Borujerd is a city located in the province of Lorestan, situated in the western part of Iran. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, mild climate, and historical sites such as the Falak-ol-Aflak Ca... CONTINUE here for a trip to Borujerd
- Bushehr is a port city in the south of Iran on the shores of the Persian Gulf. It is the capital of Bushehr Province and has a population of approximately 200,000 people. Bushehr has a long history an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bushehr
- Chabahar is a port city located in southeastern Iran, in the province of Sistan and Baluchestan. It is situated on the Gulf of Oman and shares borders with Pakistan and Afghanistan. Chabahar is an imp... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chabahar
- Mount Damavand is a stratovolcano and the highest peak in Iran, located about 70 km northeast of Tehran. It is 5,671 meters high and is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers from around th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Damavand
- Gorgan is a city located in the northeast of Iran, in the province of Golestan. It is the capital of the province and has a population of approximately 330,000 people. The city is surrounded by forest... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gorgan
- Hamadan is an ancient city located in western Iran. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with over 3,000 years of history. It was formerly known as Ecbatana and was the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hamadan
- Hormoz Island is an Iranian island located in the Hormozgan Province in the Persian Gulf. It is known for its mesmerizing colorful landscapes, rocky hills, and crystal clear waters. Hormoz Island is a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hormoz Island
- Isfahan is a city located in central Iran, known for its breathtaking architectural wonders, stunning bridges and majestic palaces. It served as a capital of Persia during the Safavid dynasty (from th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Isfahan
- Kashan is a city located in the province of Isfahan in Iran. It has a rich history and is known for its beautiful architecture, traditional houses, and gardens. Some of the main tourist attractions in... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kashan
- Kerman is a province located in the southeastern region of Iran, famous for its rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and natural attractions. It is the largest province in Iran, covering an area ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kerman
- Kermanshah is a city located in western Iran, near the border with Iraq. It is the capital of Kermanshah Province and has a population of around 950,000 people. The city has a rich history and is know... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kermanshah
- Khorramabad, also known as Lorestan, is a city located in western Iran, in the province of Lorestan. The city is situated at the foot of the Zagros Mountains and is known for its historic architecture... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khorramabad
- Khoy is a city in northwestern Iran, located in the province of West Azerbaijan. It has a population of approximately 200,000 people and is situated on the southern banks of the river Qareh-Sou. Khoy ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khoy
- Kish Island is a popular tourist destination located in the Persian Gulf, in the south of Iran. It boasts a warm and sunny climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 40 de... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kish Island
- Lahijan is a city located in the north of Iran, near the Caspian Sea. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful natural scenery, tea plantations, and historic sites. The city has a c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lahijan
- Mahan is a small town located in the Kerman province of Iran. It is situated at an altitude of 1,940 meters above sea level, and it has a population of approximately 25,000 people. Mahan is widely kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mahan
- Maragheh is a city located in the East Azerbaijan province of Iran. It is situated in the foothills of Sahand Mountain and is known for its rich historical background and educational institutions. Mar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Maragheh
- Marv Dasht is a city located in the Fars Province in southern Iran. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Mount Barm-e Firuz and the Dasht-e Arjan Desert. Marv Dasht also has a rich ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marv Dasht
- Masal is a small city located in the western part of Gilan province in Iran. It is situated in the Alborz Mountains and is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including dense forests, waterfal... CONTINUE here for a trip to Masal
- Mashhad is the second-largest city in Iran and the capital of Khorasan Razavi Province. It is known as one of the most religious and cultural cities in the country, as it houses the shrine of Imam Rez... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mashhad
- Neyshabur is a historical city located in the northeast of Iran, in the province of Khorasan Razavi. It has a rich history and cultural heritage dating back to the Sassanid era. Neyshabur is famous fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Neyshabur
- Qazvin is a historical city located in northwestern Iran, about 120 km west of Tehran. It served as the capital of the Safavid dynasty in the 16th century and has a rich cultural and architectural her... CONTINUE here for a trip to Qazvin
- Qeshm Island is the largest island in the Persian Gulf, located south of Iran. It has a population of around 150,000 people and is known for its vibrant culture, pristine beaches, and unique geologica... CONTINUE here for a trip to Qeshm Island
- Qom is a city located in central Iran and is known for being a center of Islamic scholarship and religious studies. It is home to many important seminaries and religious institutions, including the Sh... CONTINUE here for a trip to Qom
- Ramsar is a city and a popular tourist destination located in the Mazandaran province of Iran. It is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the Alborz mountains, dense forests, and pris... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ramsar
- Rasht is the capital city of Gilan province in Iran. It is located in the north of the country and has a population of around 700,000 people. Rasht is known for its mild and humid climate, beautiful l... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rasht
- Sanandaj is the capital city of Kurdistan Province in western Iran. It has a population of around 335,000 people and is located approximately 400 kilometers west of Tehran. The city's culture and arch... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sanandaj
- Sari is a city located in the north of Iran. It is the capital of Mazandaran Province and lies on the southern coast of the Caspian Sea. Sari is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sari
- Saveh is a city located in central Iran, in the province of Markazi. It has a population of approximately 200,000 people and is known for its historical architecture, such as the Jame Mosque of Saveh.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saveh
- Semnan is a city located in the north-east of Iran, about 164 km east of Tehran. The city is surrounded by deserts, mountains, and fertile plains. It has a long history dating back to the pre-Islamic ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Semnan
- Shahr-e Kord is a city located in the western part of Iran. It is the capital city of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province. The city has a population of approximately 200,000 people and is situated at a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shahr-e Kord
- Shahrekord is the capital city of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province in Iran, known for its stunning natural beauty and hospitable locals. It is located in the Zagros Mountains in western Iran and has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shahrekord
- Shiraz is a city located in the southwest of Iran and is considered the capital of the Fars Province. It has a population of around 1.5 million people and is known for its rich cultural heritage, poet... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shiraz
- Tabriz is a historic city located in the northwest region of Iran. It is the capital city of East Azerbaijan province and the fifth largest city in Iran. Tabriz has a rich history and cultural heritag... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tabriz
- Takestan is a city located in the northwestern part of Iran, in the Qazvin province. It is situated at an altitude of 1,565 meters above sea level, and its population is around 50,000. Takestan has a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Takestan
- Tehran is the capital and largest city of Iran, located in the north of the country at the foot of the Alborz mountain range. It has a population of more than 8 million people, making it one of the mo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Teheran
- Urmia, also known as Orumiyeh, is a city in the northwest of Iran. It is the largest city in the West Azerbaijan Province and the tenth-largest city in Iran. Urmia is situated at an altitude of 1,330 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Urmia
- Yazd is a city in central Iran and is the capital of Yazd province. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and has a rich history, culture, and architecture that reflects i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yazd


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