IRAN
Iran, a land of ancient civilizations and dramatic landscapes, boasts a rich history that stretches back over 5,000 years. This country is the cradle of the Persian Empire, with a heritage that shaped much of the ancient world. From the ruins of Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, to the vibrant bazaars of Isfahan, Iran’s history is a testament to its long-standing influence on the world stage. Surrounded by mountains, deserts, and the Persian Gulf, Iran’s varied geography offers everything from rugged alpine peaks to vast arid plains.
The land of Iran is not only diverse in its terrain but also in its cultures. The country’s geographical location at the crossroads of Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Caucasus has fostered a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions. The Zagros and Alborz mountain ranges dominate the landscape, offering breathtaking natural beauty and opportunities for adventure. Iran’s strategic position has also made it a historical hub for trade, including the ancient Silk Road. Today, Iran continues to blend its ancient traditions with modern innovations, creating a unique fusion of the past and the present.
Why Visit Iran?
Ancient History: Explore the ruins of Persepolis, the ancient capital of the Persian Empire, and visit museums filled with artifacts from 5,000 years of civilization.
Breathtaking Architecture: Iran’s mosques, palaces, and bridges, especially in cities like Isfahan and Shiraz, showcase some of the world’s most intricate and beautiful designs.
Cultural Richness: Iran offers a fascinating cultural experience with its festivals, music, and traditional crafts that have been passed down through generations.
Friendly Locals: Iranians are known for their hospitality, and visitors often find themselves welcomed with open arms and open hearts.
Natural Beauty: From the Alborz mountains to the Lut Desert, Iran’s landscapes provide endless opportunities for trekking, skiing, and desert exploration.
Cuisine: Enjoy Iran’s flavorful food, including dishes like kebabs, stews, and aromatic rice, often accompanied by fresh herbs and fruits.
Smart Travel: Off-Season Deals & Delights
Key Advantages:
- Lowest Prices: Flights and accommodation rates are at their absolute lowest.
- Fewer Crowds: Major attractions, historical sites, and cities are significantly less crowded, offering a more intimate experience.
- Authentic Local Vibe: Experience Iran like a local, with more opportunities to interact with residents and enjoy a serene atmosphere.
- Desert Beauty: The central deserts (e.g., around Yazd and Kashan) offer pleasant, mild temperatures for exploration during the day, and clear, star-filled nights.
- Skiing Opportunities: Iran has several ski resorts (e.g., Dizin, Shemshak near Tehran) that offer good conditions at a fraction of the cost of European resorts.
Main Drawbacks:
- Cold Temperatures: Winter can be very cold, especially in the northern and mountainous regions, with snow common.
- Shorter Days: Daylight hours are shorter, limiting sightseeing time.
- Limited Outdoor Activities (non-ski): Some outdoor activities in certain regions might be restricted due to weather conditions.
- Some closures: Certain seasonal attractions or guesthouses in very remote areas might be closed in the deepest off-season.
Key Regions:
- Tehran: The capital city is enchanting in winter, especially if it snows. You can explore museums, historical palaces, and enjoy the local cafe culture with fewer tourists. It’s also a gateway to ski resorts.
- Isfahan: While typically known for its summer charm, Isfahan’s grand squares and mosques are beautiful and incredibly peaceful in winter. Fewer crowds allow for stunning photos and a more reflective experience.
- Shiraz: The city of poets and gardens offers a tranquil experience in winter. The Eram Garden and Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque) are still captivating, and you can explore the historical sites with more ease.
- Yazd: The desert city of Yazd experiences mild and pleasant daytime temperatures in winter, making it ideal for exploring its unique mud-brick architecture and Zoroastrian sites. Nights can be cold, but the clear skies are perfect for stargazing.
- Kashan: Known for its traditional houses and beautiful gardens, Kashan is lovely and quiet in winter. The Fin Garden and historical mansions offer a glimpse into Persian architecture without the crowds.
Key Advantages:
- Ideal Weather: Pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor activities, without the extreme heat of summer.
- Manageable Crowds: Tourist numbers are lower than during peak Nowruz (Persian New Year) but attractions are fully open and vibrant.
- Reasonable Prices: Flights and accommodation are more affordable than during Nowruz, though slightly higher than deep winter.
- Festivals & Events: Many vibrant local festivals and cultural events take place, particularly in spring (e.g., related to Nowruz celebrations, though you’ll be slightly after the main rush) and autumn.
- Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Autumn Colors (Autumn): Enjoy the natural beauty of Iran’s diverse landscapes.
Main Drawbacks:
- Nowruz Crowds/Prices (Early Spring): The period around Nowruz (late March/early April) is peak season for domestic travel in Iran, leading to very high prices and significant crowds. It’s best to avoid this specific period for off-season benefits.
- Unpredictable Weather (Spring/Autumn): Weather can change rapidly, especially in mountainous areas.
- Dust Storms (Spring/Summer Transition): In some desert regions, late spring can see occasional dust storms.
Key Regions:
- Isfahan: The city truly comes alive in spring and autumn with comfortable temperatures for exploring Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the mosques, and bridges.
- Shiraz: Spring is particularly beautiful with the gardens in full bloom. Autumn offers pleasant evenings for exploring historical sites and enjoying the local culture.
- Tehran: The capital city is much more enjoyable in spring or autumn, with comfortable temperatures for exploring its parks, museums, and vibrant city life.
- Yazd & Kashan: These desert cities are perfect in spring and autumn, with warm days and cool evenings, ideal for exploring their unique architecture and historical sites.
- Northern Iran (Caspian Sea Region): The lush green landscapes of Gilan and Mazandaran provinces are particularly beautiful in spring and autumn, with comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring charming villages.
Nowruz (Persian New Year – typically late March/early April): This is Iran’s absolute peak tourist season, driven primarily by domestic travel. Prices for flights and accommodation are at their highest, and popular attractions, especially in cities like Isfahan, Shiraz, and Tehran, will be exceptionally crowded. While the atmosphere is festive, the value for money is significantly lower, and booking well in advance is essential.
Mid-Summer (June-August): While not as universally crowded as Nowruz, mid-summer sees very hot temperatures across much of Iran, particularly in the central and southern regions. Prices might be slightly lower than Nowruz, but still elevated. Travel can be uncomfortable due to the heat, especially for extensive sightseeing. The northern regions near the Caspian Sea and mountainous areas offer some respite from the heat but can still be busy.
Religious Holidays & Festivals: Specific religious holidays and festivals throughout the year can lead to localized surges in crowds and prices, particularly in pilgrimage cities like Mashhad and Qom. It’s advisable to check the Iranian calendar when planning your trip.
Ready To Experience Your Perfect Gateaway?
Essential Trip Information
Visa and Entry Requirements
Most travelers need a visa. Apply via an Iranian embassy/consulate or use the e-visa portal (official website).
Passports must be valid for 6+ months.
Visa on arrival (VOA) is available at major airports (e.g., Tehran Imam Khomeini) for eligible nationalities (check MFA list).
Tourist visas require an invitation letter (book through a licensed tour operator).
US/UK/Canadian citizens must travel with a guided tour.
Currency
Iran uses the Iranian Rial (IRR). Prices are often quoted in Tomans (1 Toman = 10 Rials).
Exchange rates fluctuate wildly due to sanctions. Official vs. black-market rates differ significantly (e.g., ~US$1 = 42,000 IRR official vs. ~500,000 IRR unofficial).
Best Ways to Handle Currency
Bring cash (US$/EUR) in small, clean bills (no stamps or tears). Exchange at bazaar money changers (better rates than banks).
Avoid ATMs/credit cards (international cards don’t work due to sanctions).
Carry a calculator to convert Toman/Rial prices.
Language
The official language is Persian (Farsi), but Arabic is spoken in some regions.
Helpful phrases: “Salaam” (Hello), “Merci” (Thank you), “Kahjasti…?” (Where is…?)
Safety and Security
Iran is generally safe, but it’s important to respect local customs and laws.
Women are required to wear a headscarf and modest clothing in public.
Watch out for pickpockets in crowded markets or public transportation.
Emergency number: 110 (Police), 115 (Ambulance).
Health & Insurance
No special vaccinations are required for most travelers.
Travel insurance is recommended, as healthcare services for foreigners may not be readily available in some areas.
Tap water is generally safe in larger cities, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas.
Transportation
Metro: Tehran has an efficient metro system that is cheap and easy to use.
Buses: Extensive bus networks are available in most cities.
Taxis/Ride-sharing: Taxis are abundant, but it’s advisable to agree on the fare before the ride. Apps like Snapp offer ride-sharing options similar to Uber.
Price Level
Iran is generally affordable for travelers, especially for food and accommodation.
- Accommodation:
Budget: Hostels or budget hotels (US$30–60/night)
Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$80–150/night)
Luxury: 4-5 star hotels (US$200+/night)
- Food:
Street food: Kebabs, sandwiches, and local snacks (US$3–7)
Casual dining: Traditional restaurants (US$10–25/person)
Fine dining: Higher-end options (US$30+/person)
- Transportation:
Public transport: Metro and buses are cheap, typically US$0.30–0.60 per ride.
Taxis: Local taxis (US$2–5 for short trips)
Domestic flights: Low-cost carriers for internal travel (US$40–100 per flight)
Money-Saving Tips
Stay in local guesthouses or hostels for a budget-friendly experience.
Use public transportation to save on taxis.
Visit free historical sites like the ruins of Persepolis and natural parks.
Explore Iran
Planning Your Trip
Best Time To Visit
Iran has a diverse climate, ranging from arid deserts to lush coastal areas, so the best time to visit depends on the region you plan to explore.
- Northern Iran (Caspian Sea region):
Best: May–September – Warm, ideal for coastal activities and nature (68–86°F / 20–30°C).
Avoid: December–February – Cold and rainy, especially in the Caspian region.
- Central Iran (Tehran, Isfahan, Yazd):
Best: March–May & September–November – Mild temperatures, perfect for exploring cities and historical sites (59–77°F / 15–25°C).
Avoid: June–August – Hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 104°F (40°C).
- Southern Iran (Shiraz, Bandar Abbas):
Best: November–March – Pleasant temperatures for sightseeing (68–82°F / 20–28°C).
Avoid: June–August – Extremely hot, with temperatures rising above 104°F (40°C).
- Desert Areas (Kerman, Yazd):
Best: March–May & September–November – Mild and comfortable (50–77°F / 10–25°C).
Avoid: June–August – Overwhelming heat, reaching 104–113°F (40–45°C).
Bold Recommendation: Visit Iran from March–May or September–November for pleasant weather across most regions.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Dress Code: Modesty is key; women should wear a headscarf and long sleeves, while men should avoid shorts in public.
Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory, but appreciated. Around 10% in restaurants; small tips for hotel staff (US$1–2).
Politics: Avoid political discussions or controversial topics, as they can be sensitive.
Museum Behavior: Iran’s museums often have a more formal atmosphere, so keep conversations at a low volume.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Budget hostels (US$10–30), mid-range hotels (US$40–100), luxury hotels (US$150+).
Food: Street food (US$2–5), casual meals (US$10–20), fine dining (US$30+).
Transport: Public transport (US$0.50–2), taxis (US$2–5 within cities).
Activities: Entrance fees for attractions like Persepolis (~US$10), guided tours (~US$30–50).
Daily Budget:
Budget: US$30–50 (hostels, street food, public transport).
Mid-range: US$80–150 (3-star hotels, meals at mid-range restaurants).
Luxury: US$200+ (5-star hotels, private tours).
Internet & Mobile
Free Wi-Fi: Available in most cafes, hotels, and public spaces in major cities.
SIM Cards: Local SIM cards (IranCell, MCI) are available for US$5–15 for a prepaid data plan (10GB+).
eSIMs: Available from local providers or international services like Airalo.
Travel Insurance
Recommended for: Medical coverage, as healthcare for tourists can be costly. Ensure coverage for emergencies.
Adventure Activities: Ensure your policy covers activities like trekking, desert tours, or mountaineering, as some standard plans might exclude these.
Accomodation Options
Iran offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.
- Luxury:
Tehran: Espinas Palace Hotel, a 5-star luxury hotel.
Shiraz: Zandiyeh Hotel, offering luxury with traditional Persian architecture.
- Mid-range:
Isfahan: Abbasi Hotel (historic hotel with beautiful architecture).
Yazd: Moshir al-Mamalek Garden Hotel (traditional with modern amenities).
- Budget:
Hostels: US$10–30/night (available in Tehran, Shiraz, Isfahan).
Guesthouses: US$20–50/night (Shiraz, Yazd).
- Unique Stays:
Traditional Houses: Stay in historical houses converted to boutique hotels, such as the Khan-e-Mehr in Kashan.
Tip: Accommodation in major cities like Tehran and Isfahan can be booked easily in advance, but it’s a good idea to book in smaller cities like Yazd earlier.
Getting Around
Transportation in Iran is diverse, with options ranging from buses to private cars.
- Trains:
Comfortable and scenic routes, especially between Tehran and Isfahan, Shiraz, or Yazd.
Classes: 1st (more comfortable, air-conditioned), 2nd (cheaper, but basic), and Sleeper trains for long distances.
Book early for popular routes like Tehran to Shiraz.
- Buses:
Public buses: Cheap (US$5–20), but may be crowded.
Private AC buses: Comfortable for long trips (Tehran–Shiraz or Isfahan).
- Taxis:
Standard taxis: Available in most cities, fares generally range from US$2–5 for short trips.
Ride-hailing apps: Snapp and Tap30 are popular in larger cities.
- Car Rentals:
Available but driving in Iran can be challenging due to chaotic traffic. It’s recommended to hire a driver-guide (~US$50–80/day).
- Domestic Flights:
Available for long distances (Tehran–Shiraz, Tehran–Mashhad), with prices around US$50–100 for one-way tickets.
Bold Recommendation: For longer trips, consider trains for comfort and book a driver for more flexibility.
Handy Tips
Iran uses the Iranian Rial (IRR), but the Toman (1 Toman = 10 Rials) is often used in daily transactions.
Exchanging Currency: Avoid exchanging money at airports or tourist areas, as the rates are not favorable. Use local exchange offices (Sarafi) or ATMs for better rates.
Using Cards: International credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are not widely accepted due to sanctions. Carry cash for most transactions.
Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
Restaurants/Bars: 5-10% of the bill is typical, though not expected in smaller, local spots.
Taxis/Rideshares: Round up to the nearest 10,000 Rial.
Hotel Staff: 20,000–50,000 Rial per day for housekeeping.
Tour Guides: 100,000–200,000 Rial per day for private tours.
Persian (Farsi) is the official language of Iran, and English is spoken in major cities but less commonly in rural areas. Helpful phrases:
“Where is the nearest metro station?” = “Istgah-e metro kodom jaye?”
“How much is this?” = “In chand?”
“Can I get a receipt?” = “Mitoonam fatora begiram?”
Pro Tip: While Persian is the language of choice, many Iranians appreciate any effort to speak their language, even a few words.
Iran is generally safe for travelers, though it’s important to respect local customs and laws. Be cautious in crowds and avoid sensitive political discussions.
- Emergency Contacts:
110: Police
125: Fire Department
115: Emergency Medical Services
Your Embassy: Note the location of your embassy (e.g., in Tehran).
Iran uses 220V/50Hz with Type C/F plugs (two round pins). Visitors from countries with different voltage may need a plug adapter or converter for certain electronics.
Tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas. Always check local advice, especially in smaller towns.
Public holidays in Iran can vary depending on the Islamic calendar. Major holidays include:
1 Jan: New Year’s Day (International holiday)
Nowruz: Iranian New Year (Spring equinox, around 21 March)
13th of Farvardin: Nature Day (holiday during Nowruz)
10 Muharram: Ashura (religious observance)
20 March: National Day
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha: Islamic holidays with dates based on the lunar calendar.
Note: Many businesses close during the major holidays like Nowruz, and the cities can be quite empty, so plan accordingly.
Stores: Typically open from 9:00–19:00, closed on Fridays (the Islamic holy day).
Pharmacies: Many operate 24/7 in major cities.
Markets: Traditional bazaars open from 9:00–20:00, with some closing for a mid-day break.
Malls: Typically 10:00–22:00, with extended hours on weekends.
Kebab Koobideh: Ground lamb/beef skewers with saffron rice and grilled tomato.
Tahchin: Savory baked saffron rice cake layered with chicken or lamb—crispy bottom is key.
Fesenjan: Pomegranate and walnut stew with chicken—tangy, rich, and celebratory.
Ghormeh Sabzi: Fragrant herb stew with kidney beans and lamb, often called Iran’s national dish.
Baghali Polo ba Mahicheh: Dill rice with fava beans and slow-cooked lamb shank.
Zereshk Polo: Rice with barberries, saffron, and chicken—colorful and tart.
Ash Reshteh: Thick herb-and-noodle soup topped with fried onions and kashk (fermented whey).
Mirza Ghasemi: Smoky eggplant, garlic, and tomato dip—best with northern bread.
Sabzi Khordan: Fresh herb platter with cheese and walnuts, often served with bread.
Kuku Sabzi: Herb-loaded frittata with barberries and walnuts—great cold or hot.
Gaz: Persian nougat from Isfahan made with pistachios and rosewater.
Baklava (Iranian style): Less syrupy than Turkish—often flavored with cardamom and rose.
Zoolbia Bamieh: Syrup-soaked sweets—crispy and chewy, perfect during Ramadan.
Sholeh Zard: Saffron rice pudding topped with cinnamon and slivered almonds.
Halva: Dense, rich sweet made from flour, rosewater, and butter.
Alcoholic:
(Note: Alcohol is officially banned for Muslims in Iran, but available privately among some non-Muslim communities and travelers may hear of traditional styles.)
Shiraz Wine (Historical): Once globally known; the city of Shiraz was a winemaking hub in pre-1979 Iran.
Aragh Sagi: Homemade distilled alcohol, often grape-based—available on black market (not legal).
Non-Alcoholic:
Doogh: Tangy yogurt drink with mint—served chilled, often carbonated.
Saffron Sherbet (Sharbat-e Zaferan): Floral and golden—served at weddings and summer gatherings.
Khakshir Drink: Cooling herbal seed drink—especially popular in Shiraz.
Gol Gavzaban Tea: Blue borage flower tea—relaxing and traditionally medicinal.
Chai (Persian Tea): Strong black tea served in glass cups, usually with a sugar cube.
Sekanjabin: Ancient drink made from vinegar and honey, mixed with mint and cucumber.
Paloodeh Drink: Melted version of the famous icy dessert from Shiraz—lime and rosewater.
Rosewater Lemonade: Citrusy and floral—cooling and traditional in Yazd.
Carrot Juice with Ice Cream (Ab-Havij Bastani): A quirky but beloved treat.
Persepolis: The awe-inspiring ruins of Darius the Great’s ceremonial capital.
Naqsh-e Jahan Square: Isfahan’s UNESCO-listed plaza—home to mosques, palaces, and bazaars.
Golestan Palace: Tehran’s Qajar-era marvel of mirrored halls and royal gardens.
Zoroastrian Fire Temples: Sacred eternal flames still burning in Yazd.
Imam Reza Shrine: Monumental religious complex in Mashhad—stunning and sacred.
Qanat System: Ingenious ancient underground water channels—still in use.
Carpet Weaving: Each region boasts distinct styles—from Tabriz knots to Qom silk rugs.
Traditional Music: Setar, santur, and daf drum form the soundscape of Persian classical music.
Miniature Painting: Intricate, vibrant art still taught in workshops across Iran.
Nowruz: Persian New Year—celebrated on spring equinox with fire-jumping, haft-sin tables, and feasts.
Tehran Museums: The National Museum, Treasury of National Jewels, and Museum of Contemporary Art.
Historic Houses: Kashan’s restored merchant homes like Tabatabaei and Borujerdi.
Café Culture: Trendy and intellectual cafes across Tehran and Isfahan—great for people-watching.
Nomadic Stays: Experience life with the Qashqai or Bakhtiari tribes in the Zagros Mountains.
Persian Gardens: From Shiraz’s Eram Garden to Kashan’s Fin Garden—UNESCO treasures.
Traditional Teahouses (Chaikhaneh): Listen to live poetry or sip tea in tiled courtyards.
Lake Urmia & Salt Flats: Haunting pink lake (seasonal) and desolate landscapes in the northwest.
Mountain Treks: Climb Mount Damavand—the highest peak in the Middle East.
Art Galleries: Thriving in Tehran’s northern districts—often mixing traditional and modern styles.
Silk Road Sites: Caravanserais, desert oases, and ancient trading routes come alive around Yazd.
(Public bars with alcohol are banned in Iran; nightlife and socializing happen in more private or traditional ways.)
Roof Cafés in Isfahan: Overlooking mosques and squares—atmospheric spots for tea and music.
Private Parties (Mehmooni): Iran’s real nightlife happens indoors—with music, food, and sometimes illicit drinks.
Live Music Cafés: Especially in Tehran—indie bands and Persian fusion groups play unplugged.
Night Walks in Yazd or Shiraz: Lit bazaars and traditional houses open late for visitors.
Chaikhaneh Hangouts: Enjoy live storytelling, backgammon, and thick tea with locals.
Traditional Bathhouse-turned-Cafés: Hammams like Sultan Amir Ahmad in Kashan offer a chill vibe.
Bazaar Strolls at Night: Especially in Tabriz and Isfahan—atmospheric and alive with local chatter.
Seasonal Events: Open-air film nights or Nowruz concerts in major city parks.
Ice Cream and Faludeh Stands: Open late and buzzing—especially in Shiraz and Tehran.
Hookah Lounges: Often in garden cafés—enjoy a puff of “ghalyoon” with apple or mint tobacco.