OVERVIEW
Embark on an extraordinary journey through Iran’s rich history, architecture, and living traditions. Begin in Tehran, exploring royal palaces, world-class museums, and UNESCO-listed Golestan Palace. Travel through Kashan to discover elegant traditional houses and the serene Fin Garden, before reaching magnificent Isfahan, a true open-air museum famed for its grand squares, mosques, bridges, and Safavid-era masterpieces. Continue to the desert city of Yazd, home to Zoroastrian heritage, wind towers, ancient water systems, and timeless adobe architecture. Journey south to Shiraz, the city of poets and gardens, and explore the legendary sites of Persepolis, Pasargadae, and Naqsh-e Rostam, symbols of the mighty Persian empires. This immersive itinerary blends UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient civilizations, Islamic architecture, and authentic local culture for a truly unforgettable Persian experience.
Family 
Culture 
Archaeology 
Day 1 : Tehran
Arrive Tehran, Meeting & Greeting with the guide and Start Tehran Tour by visiting Azadi tower & visiting Carpet Museum. By visiting Carpet Museum, you will have access to many of the masterpieces woven in the important carpet-weaving centers of Iran. The beautiful architecture and façade of the museum resembles a carpet-weaving loom.
After lunch visiting Saad Abad Palace (Green Palace &White Palace).
• Azadi tower
• Carpet Museum
• Saad Abad Palace (Green Palace &White Palace)
Day 2 : Tehran
A visit to the National Museum of Iran (IRAN Bastan Museum), including prehistoric, historic and Islamic sections. This museum houses a marvellous collection including ceramics, potteries, stone figures and carvings dating from around the 5th millennium BC.
A visit to Ceramic & Glassware Museum (Abgineh) followed by Visiting of Golestan Palace. A stunning architectural gem from the Qajar era, exemplifies the fusion of traditional Persian art and craft with Western influences. As one of Tehran's oldest building complexes, it became the Qajar dynasty's center of power after they took the throne in 1779 and declared Tehran the national capital. Encircling a garden with pools and green spaces, the Palace's distinctive decorations and architectural elements are largely from the 19th century. The Golestan Palace marks the emergence of a novel style that blends classic Persian elements with the architectural methods and technologies of the 18th century. Chinese food for dinner,
• Iran National Museum)
• Golestan Palace (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Glassware & Ceramic museum (Abgineh)
Day 3 : Tehran - Kashan – Isfahan (248 + 202km – about 5h30-6h driving time)
Drive to Isfahan via Kashan. On rout, visit Imam Komeini Tomb’s (the Iranian cleric and revolutionary leader who founded the Islamic Republic of Iran and served as its first Supreme Leader from 1979 until 1989).
Continue to Kashan, this attractive small oasis city was once a favourite of Shah Abbas I who beautified it and asked to be buried here. Kashan is also home to some of the best traditional houses such as Brujerdi House (a Samovar merchant), as well as beautiful gardens such as Fin Garden.
Overnight Isfahan.
• Imam Khomeini Tomb
• Fin Garden (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Borujerdi House
Day 4 : Isfahan
Isfahan is Iran’s masterpiece, the jewel of ancient Persia and one of the finest cities in the Islamic world. The exquisite blue mosaic tiles of Isfahan’s Islamic buildings, its expansive bazaar and the city’s gorgeous bridges demand as much of your time as you can spare. The history of the city dates back to 2700 years ago. It was the capital of Iran in a number of the post-Islamic periods, but its golden age was during the Safavid dynasty in 17th century. Isfahan with numerous monuments for which it is world-famous has the greatest attractions for tourists. It is really a museum in the open air.
Visit Hasht Behesht Palace (Eight Heavens') is a 17th-century pavilion in Isfahan, Iran. It was built by the order of Suleiman I, the eighth shah of Safavid Iran, and functioned mainly as a private pavilion. It is located in Isfahan's famous Charbagh Street. It was also the first modern school in Isfahan called His Majesty's School (Madrese Homayouni)
On to Armenian quarter to visit Vank Cathedral, built between 1606 and 1655. On to Jame Mosque, a veritable museum of Islamic architecture, displaying styles from the 11th to the 18th centuries.
Panoramic tour of Isfahan including Si-o-Se & Khaju historical bridges and a traditional teahouse. Pigeon towers, or "Kaboutar Khan," are unique architectural structures in Iran, historically built to house pigeons for their valuable droppings, which served as fertilizer for agriculture.
Overnights Isfahan.
• Hasht Behesht Palace
• Vank Cathedral
• Friday Mosque (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Siosepol & Khajoo Bridges
• Carpet Shop
• Pigeon Tower
• Music Museum
Day 5 : Isfahan
Full day tour of Isfahan magnificent buildings; some of the greatest examples of Islamic architecture including the Royal (Naqsh-e-Jahan) square, the Imam & Sheikh Lotfolah mosques, Ali-Qapu Palace & Bazaar spanning 5 km. Chehel Sotun Palace (forty columns) with its beautiful frescos located in a pretty garden. Shah Abbas II originally built it as a pleasure pavilion and reception hall.
• Naghsh-e Jahan Square (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Imam Mosque
• Sheikh Lotfolah
• Aliqapou Palace
• Bazar
• Chehel Sotun Palace (UNESCO world heritage site)
Day 6 : Isfahan- Meybod – Yazd (315km- about 4hours driving time)
After breakfast, depart Isfahan to Meybod Caravansary – Narin castle, and then proceed to Yazd.
Yazd is still home to Iran’s largest community of Zoroastrians, and the best place to visit an Ateshkadeh (House of Eternal Fire) and the Towers of Silence, the Zoroastrian burial grounds. Although the temple is modern (built in the 1940s), the sacred fire has been burning since 470 AD.
Yazd Water Museum, an old mansion that displays an ancient society named the “Qanat civilization.” Qanats are an outstanding hydraulic ancestral technology that gave birth to civilizations. Qanats show the diligence of our elders to combat the harsh conditions of dwelling in deserts. The collection of tools, devices, techniques and the knowledge behind them is rich enough to be collected and conveyed through the generations.
The stunning three-storey façade of the Tekiyeh in the Amir Chakhmaq Complex at sunset is the last stop before dinner.
Overnight Yazd
• Narin Castle
• Tower of Silence
• Amir Chakhmaq Complex
• Water Museum
Day 7 : Yazd
Yazd is also an ancient city with its unique desert architecture and its “Badgirs”, the wind towers designed to catch and circulate the merest breath of wind. The mosques of Yazd are like no others and the magnificent Jame Mosque dominates the old city. Its remarkably high, tiled entrance, flanked with two magnificent minarets and adorned with an inscription from the 15th century, is simply superb.
This city has always been a great weaving center, known for its silks and other fabrics even before Marco Polo passed through along one of the Silk Routes in the late 13th century.
Also, visiting of Dolat Abad garden &tomb of 12 Imam, Alexander prison, Tower of silence, Asadan castle& bazaar.
• Fire Temple
• Dowlat Abad Complex (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Old Friday Mosque
• Walking in Old part of City
• Star watching
Day 8 : Yazd - Abargou – Shiraz (150km+288km – 1h40 + 3h driving time)
Morning drive to Shiraz via Abargou, visiting Ice Tower then proceed to Pasargadae. At Pasargadae, the first structure you will come across is the tomb of Cyrus the Great. Legend has it that when Alexander the Great arrived at Pasargadae, he was greatly distressed by the destruction of the tomb and ordered its restoration.
Persepolis (Takht-e Jamshid), Necropolis (Naghsh-e-Rostam)
A visit to the ruins of the ancient city of Persepolis is one of the highlights of any trip to Iran. Persepolis is the best preserved of Persia’s ruined cities and the finest legacy of the great Achaemenid Empire which ruled Persia between 559 and 330 BC. The most impressive features of the ruins are the splendid bas-reliefs, which adorn many of the staircases and palaces on the site and provide a rich treasure house of ancient history.
At Necropolis you will find the tomb of the three powerful Achaemenian Kings carved into huge rocks overlooking one of the oldest Zoroastrian fire temples. Continue to Shiraz.
• Ice Tower
• Passargad (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Persepolis (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Naghsh-E-Rostam
Day 9 : Shiraz
Shiraz, the city of nightingales, poetry and roses is the center of Fars Province. Fars has had a role of great significance in the Iranian civilization. This province is greatly indebted to the settlement of the Achaemenid and Sassanian dynasties for its glorious cultural heritage. Scattered all over the territory of Fars are monuments materializing the rapid progress of the province in both pre-Islamic and Islamic era.
City tour of Shiraz including a visit to Eram Garden which the origin go back to the Seljuk era at 12 century and now is part of the Shiraz Botanical Garden of Shiraz University. It is open to the public as a historic landscape garden. They are a World Heritage Site and protected by Iran's Cultural Heritage Organization. On to Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque, Bazaar and the mausoleum of the famous Iranian poet Hafez and its traditional teahouse, Arge Karim Khani, Vakil mosque.
Overnight Shiraz
• Quran Gate
• Colorful mosque (Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque)
• Maharloo Lake (depending to the season could be changed)
• Bazar
• Arg of Karim Khan (from outside)
• Hafiz Tomb
• Eram Garden (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Ali Ebne Hamzeh mausoleum
Day 10 : Departur
Early morning transfer to airport.
End of the tour.
Our services include :
- 9 night/ 10 days hotel accommodation in above mentioned hotels
- Meals : Full Bord
- English speaking national guide
- All Transfer & transportation
- Entrance Fees
- Portages
- ½ litter mineral water per day
Our services do not include :
- International & Domestic Flights
- Visa fee
- Tips for driver & guide
- Tipping for local guide: USD2/ driver: USD1 per day per head (paid by T/L on spot)
|
City |
5* Hotels |
4* Hotels |
|
Tehran 2 Nights |
Parsian Azadi Grand hotel or Similar |
Parsian Evin Grand hotel or Similar |
|
Isfahan 3 Nights |
Kowsar Hotel or Similar |
Parsian Aliqapou Hotel or Similar |
|
Yazd 2 Nights |
Parsian Safaieh hotel or Similar |
Parsian Safaieh hotel or Similar |
|
Shiraz 2 Nights |
Shiraz Grand Hotel or Similar |
Shiraz Park Saadi Hotel or Similar |
Iran is one of the world’s most fascinating destinations, where ancient history, poetic culture, and dramatic landscapes blend into a truly unique travel experience. From the bustling streets of Tehran to the turquoise domes of Isfahan, the rose-scented gardens of Shiraz, and the desert alleys of Yazd, Iran rewards visitors who are curious, open-minded, and eager to go beyond clichés. Far from being just a stopover, Iran is a complete journey: UNESCO-listed cities, Silk Road caravanserais, mirror-covered shrines, hospitable locals, and some of the most memorable sunsets you’ll see anywhere in the world.
Why Iran Should Be on Your Travel Radar
1. A Living Museum of History & Architecture
Iran is home to some of the oldest civilizations on Earth. Here you’ll find:
The ancient ruins of Persepolis, once the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire.
The Imam Square (Naqsh-e Jahan) in Isfahan, one of the largest and most beautiful squares in the world.
Millennia-old caravanserais and desert towns that once hosted Silk Road merchants.
Every city feels like an open-air museum, filled with tile-covered mosques, bazaars, palaces, and gardens that tell the story of Persia’s rich past.
2. Warm Hospitality & Local Culture
Iran is famous for "ta’arof" – a deeply rooted culture of politeness and hospitality. Travelers are often surprised by:
How often locals say “Welcome to Iran!” and start a conversation.
Invitations to share tea, share a meal, or join a family for traditional food.
Genuine curiosity and kindness that make you feel like a guest, not a tourist.
These authentic encounters are often the highlight of any trip to Iran.
3. Diverse Landscapes in One Country
Iran’s geography is incredibly varied:
Snow-capped mountains in the Alborz and Zagros ranges
Sand dunes and starry skies in the Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut deserts
Green coastlines on the Caspian Sea
Picturesque villages stepping down cliffs, such as Masuleh or Abyaneh
Whether you love hiking, desert camping, photography, or road trips, you’ll find your perfect landscape here.
Best Time to Visit Iran
Because Iran is large and geographically diverse, the best time to visit Iran depends on your route—but for many travelers:
Spring (March–May) and
Autumn (September–early November)
are ideal for comfortable temperatures across most major cities.
Spring (March–May)
Pleasant weather in Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Yazd.
Flowering gardens—Shiraz is especially magical.
Just after Nowruz (Persian New Year around March 21), the whole country is in a festive mood (but it can be busy and some services may be limited right around the holiday).
Autumn (September–early November)
Great for city sightseeing and light hiking.
Fewer domestic holiday crowds than Nowruz.
Desert regions around Yazd and Kerman are perfect for cooler nights and starry skies.
Summer & Winter
Summer (June–August): Very hot in central and southern Iran, but good for mountains and the Caspian Sea.
Winter (December–February): Cold in most cities, but amazing for skiing near Tehran and exploring cities with fewer tourists.
Top Destinations & Things to Do in Iran
Tehran, the capital, is your likely entry point and a great introduction to modern Iran.
Don’t miss:
Golestan Palace – a UNESCO-listed royal complex.
Grand Bazaar – endless alleys, spices, fabrics, and everyday life.
Milad Tower or Azadi Tower – icons of the city skyline.
Trendy cafés and art galleries in neighborhoods like Tajrish or near Valiasr Street.
Tehran shows you the urban, creative, fast-paced side of Iran.
Isfahan – "Half of the World"
Often described in Persian as “Isfahan nesf-e jahan” ("Isfahan is half of the world"), this city is a must in any Iran itinerary.
Highlights:
Naqsh-e Jahan (Imam Square) – one of the most beautiful squares in the world.
Shah Mosque & Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque – breathtaking tile work and architecture.
Si-o-se-pol & Khaju Bridges – atmospheric at sunset and in the evening.
Traditional tea houses, bazaars, and handicraft shops selling miniatures, carpets, and inlaid work.
Isfahan is the heart of Persian art and architecture.
Shiraz & Persepolis – Poetry, Wine Traditions & Ancient Ruins
Shiraz is the city of poets, gardens, and gentle evenings.
In Shiraz:
Nasir al-Mulk (Pink Mosque) – famous for its morning light and colored glass.
Eram Garden & Narenjestan Garden – classic Persian garden design.
Tombs of Hafez and Saadi – important pilgrimage sites for lovers of poetry.
Nearby:
Persepolis – the ancient ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, a top highlight for history lovers.
Naqsh-e Rustam – monumental rock tombs of Persian kings.
Yazd – Desert City of Wind Towers & Zoroastrian Heritage
Yazd is a UNESCO World Heritage city and one of Iran’s most atmospheric destinations.
Must-see:
The Old Town, with its mud-brick houses and narrow lanes.
Badgirs (wind towers) – ancient natural air-conditioning.
Amir Chakhmaq Complex and Jameh Mosque of Yazd.
Zoroastrian sites such as the Fire Temple and Towers of Silence.
Add a desert camp night nearby for stargazing and camel rides.
Other Notable Places
Kashan – Traditional houses, historical hammams, and rosewater festivals.
Tabriz – UNESCO-listed bazaar and gateway to the northwest.
Kerman & the Lut Desert – surreal landscapes and kaluts (sand formations).
Caspian Sea Region (Rasht, Lahijan, Masuleh) – green mountains, tea plantations, and cooler air.
Food & Drink: A Taste of Persia
Iranian cuisine is rich, fragrant, and comforting rather than extremely spicy.
Iconic Dishes to Try
Chelo Kebab – grilled meat with saffron rice.
Fesenjan – chicken or duck in a walnut and pomegranate sauce.
Ghormeh Sabzi – herb stew, a national favorite.
Dizi/Abgoosht – a traditional slow-cooked meat and chickpea stew.
Ash-e Reshteh – hearty noodle and bean soup.
Sweets & Drinks
Saffron ice cream (Bastani Sonnati)
Gaz (nougat) from Isfahan and Sohan from Qom
Doogh (yogurt drink) and Persian tea served all day long
Food is an essential part of Iranian hospitality, and many travelers remember shared meals as their best memories.
Shopping: Souvenirs to Bring Home
Iran is a paradise for handcrafts and traditional products:
Carpets & kilims – handwoven, with regional styles.
Miniature paintings and calligraphy.
Copperware, ceramics, and inlaid wood (khatam).
Saffron, pistachios, dried fruits, and rosewater.
Local bazaars in Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Kashan, and Tabriz are perfect places to bargain gently and support artisans.
Getting Around Iran
Domestic Transport Options
Domestic flights connect major cities efficiently.
Trains and long-distance buses are common, comfortable, and affordable.
Private drivers or tours offer flexibility and local insight.
Within cities, you’ll find:
Taxis and ride-hailing apps (in large cities).
Metro systems in Tehran, and buses or shared taxis elsewhere.
Safety, Culture & Practical Tips
Safety
Many travelers find Iran safe and welcoming, especially in tourist areas.
As everywhere, keep normal precautions: secure your belongings, avoid isolated areas at night, and follow local advice.
Dress Code & Customs
Modest clothing is required, especially in public:
Women typically wear a headscarf and loose clothing covering arms and legs.
Men should avoid shorts in public spaces.
Public displays of affection are limited; respect local norms.
Always ask before photographing people, especially women or religious spaces.
Money & Connectivity
International cards may have limited or no use; check updated info and consider:
Bringing cash (EUR or USD) and using local exchange offices.
Purchasing a local SIM card for data and calls.
What to Pack for Your Iran Adventure
Light, modest clothes (layers for changing temperatures).
A scarf for women (bring at least one in your carry-on).
Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers.
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.
Any personal medication and basic first-aid items.
A small phrase list or app for Farsi (Persian) basics locals appreciate it!
Iran is not only about monuments and landscapes it’s about meeting people, sharing tea, hearing stories, and discovering a culture that values poetry, hospitality, and beauty in everyday life. With the right preparation, respect for local customs, and a spirit of curiosity, this Iran travel guide can become the first step toward one of the most memorable journeys of your life.
Beautiful Iran
Reference #: WTP0888
- Azadi Tower, Carpet Museum
- Golestan Palace (UNESCO)
- Persian Museums
- Abgineh Glassware Museum
- Kashan Oasis
- Borujerdi Historic House
- Isfahan Masterpieces
- Naqsh-e Jahan Square
- Si-o-Se Pol & Khaju Bridges
- Armenian Quarter
- Yazd Desert Heritage
- Ancient Persia – Pasargadae
- Persepolis & Naqsh-e Rostam (UNESCO)
- Shiraz Culture – Pink Mosque
- Hafez Mausoleum
- Tomb of Cyrus the Great
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Embark on an extraordinary journey through Iran’s rich history, architecture, and living traditions. Begin in Tehran, exploring royal palaces, world-class museums, and UNESCO-listed Golestan Palace. Travel through Kashan to discover elegant traditional houses and the serene Fin Garden, before reaching magnificent Isfahan, a true open-air museum famed for its grand squares, mosques, bridges, and Safavid-era masterpieces. Continue to the desert city of Yazd, home to Zoroastrian heritage, wind towers, ancient water systems, and timeless adobe architecture. Journey south to Shiraz, the city of poets and gardens, and explore the legendary sites of Persepolis, Pasargadae, and Naqsh-e Rostam, symbols of the mighty Persian empires. This immersive itinerary blends UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient civilizations, Islamic architecture, and authentic local culture for a truly unforgettable Persian experience.