OVERVIEW
Embark on an extraordinary journey through the heart of ancient Persia, exploring Iran’s most iconic cities and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Begin in vibrant Tehran, home to world-class museums, royal palaces, and historic bazaars. Travel south to Ahwaz to discover the ancient civilizations of Susa, the majestic Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat, and the ingenious hydraulic system of Shushtar. Continue to poetic Shiraz, gateway to the legendary ruins of Persepolis, Pasargadae, and Naqsh-e-Rostam, and immerse yourself in Persian art, gardens, mosques, and the legacy of great poets. Journey onward to Kerman, visiting desert citadels, lush Persian gardens, and sacred Sufi sites, before reaching mystical Yazd, the center of Zoroastrian culture with its fire temples and wind towers. Conclude in magnificent Isfahan, the jewel of Islamic architecture, with its grand squares, mosques, palaces, bridges, and Armenian heritage, before returning to Tehran via historic Kashan. A timeless voyage blending history, culture, architecture, and spirituality across one of the world’s oldest civilizations.
Family 
Culture 
Archaeology 
Day 1 : Tehran
Arrival, meet & assist services in transit hall of airport and transfer to hotel, overnight Tehran.
Tehran is a living and growing capital city and as in the recent two centuries, the most important events in the history of the whole country take place here. Tehran with its numerous museums houses the most important collection of recent and remote Persian art and culture.
Overnight in Tehran
Day 2 : Tehran
Full day city tour in Tehran. Start by visiting 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.
Overnight in Tehran
• Golestan palace (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Grand bazar
• Imam mosque
Day 3 : Tehran - Ahwaz
Full day city tour of Tehran
A visit to the National Museum of Iran, 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 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.
Evening transfer to airport for flight to Ahwaz. Overnight in Ahwaz
• National Museum
• Ceramic & Glassware Museum (Abgineh)
• Carpet Museum
Day 4 : Ahwaz - Susa - Choghazanbil - Shushtar - Ahwaz
Excursion to Susa, visiting of Choghazanbil ziggurat then drive to Shushtar visit & rerun to Ahwaz.
Overnight in Ahwaz
• Choghazanbil ziggurat (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Water mille in Shushtar
Day 5 : Ahwaz - Shiraz
Drive to Shiraz via Bishapur visit of Tangeh-e- Chogan, Bishapour was Constructed during the Sassanid Era by Shapour the king, the ancient city of Bishapour (Bishapur) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Fars Province.
Overnight in Shiraz.
• Bishapour UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Tangeh chogan
Day 6 : Shiraz (Persepolis) - Nashshe-e-Rostam - Pasargad - Shiraz
Morning excursion to Persepolis (Takht-e Jamshid), Necropolis (Naghsh-e-Rostam) Pasargad.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.
At Pasargad, the first structure you’ll come across is the tomb of Cyrus the Great. Legend has it that when Alexander the Great arrived at Pasargad, he was greatly distressed by the destruction of the tomb and ordered its restoration.
Return to Shiraz.
• Persepolis (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Necropolis (Naghsh-e-Rostam)
• Pasargadae (UNESCO world heritage site)
Day 07 : Shiraz
Full City tour of Shiraz including a visit to Narenjestan or Orange Garden built in 1879-1886 as a reception hall for visitors and was used as the governor’s residence during the late Qajar period. On to Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque, Bazaar and the mausoleum of the famous Iranian poets Saadi & Hafez and its traditional teahouse, & Arg-e- Karim Kani.
Overnight in Shiraz.
• Narenjestan or Orange Garden
• Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque
• Bazaar
• mausoleum of the famous Iranian poets Saadi & Hafez
Day 08 : Shiraz - Kerman ( 571 Km)
Early morning drive to Kerman, en-route, visit the remains of the Sassanian Palace at Sarvestan. Continue to kerman for overnight at hotel.
• Sassanid Palace
Day 09 : Kerman
Full day excursion to the village of Rayen to visit the Arg, or Citadel, of Rayen. On the return journey stop at Mahan, to visit the blue-tiled Mausoleum of Shah Nematollah-e-Vali, the great 14th century Sufi Leader, and the Shahzadeh Garden (late 19th century Qajar-period garden/house).
Return to Kerman for stay at hotel.
• Rayen Citadel
• Shazdeh Garden (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Shah Nematollah Vali
• Friday mosque
• Ganj Ali Khan complex (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Jabalieh dome
• Bazaar
Day 10 : Kerman - Yazd
Drive from Kerman 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. The stunning three-storey façade of the Tekiyeh in the Amir Chakhmaq Complex at sunset is the last stop before dinner.
Overnight in Yazd.
• Zoroastrian Fire Temple (Ateshkadeh)
• Towers of Silence
• Amir Chakhmaq Complex
Day 11 : Yazd - Nain - Isfahan
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.
In this day after visiting of Alexander prison, tower of silence, Amir Chaqmaq complex bazaar, drive to Isfahan via Nain.
Overnight in Isfahan.
• Jame Mosque
• Alexander prison
Day 12 : 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.
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 Lotfullah mosques, Ali-Qapu Palace & Bazaar spanning 5 km. Panoramic tour of Isfahan including Si-o-Se & Khaju bridges and a traditional teahouse. .
Overnight in Isfahan.
• Royal (Naqsh-e-Jahan) square
• Imam mosque
• Sheikh Lotfullah mosque
• Ali-Qapu Palace
• Bazaar
Day 13 : Isfahan
Full day city tour of Isfahan including 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. Hasht Bwhesht palace, Jame Mosque, a veritable museum of Islamic architecture, displaying styles from the 11th to the 18th centuries. On to Armenian quarter to visit Vank Cathedral, built between 1606 and 1655. Also shaking Minarets.
Overnight in Isfahan.
• Chehel Sotun Palace (forty columns) (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Hasht Bwhesht palace
• Jame Mosque (UNESCO world heritage site)
• Vank Cathedral
• shaking Minarets
Day 14 : Isfahan - Kashan - Tehran
Drive to Tehran visiting of Kashan en route including Fin garden, Tabatabae & Broojerdi houses, then Tehran hotel.
• Fin garden
• Tabatabae house
• Broojerdi house
Day 15 : Tehran & Depart home
Transfer to the airport for departure flight and end of the tour.
End of the Tour
Our services include :
- 14 night/ 15 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
Itinerary: Tehran 03 Nights - Ahwaz 02 Nights - Shiraz 03 Nights - Kerman 02 Nights - Yazd 01 Night - Isfahan 03 Nights
|
City |
5* Hotels |
4* Hotels |
|
Tehran |
Parsian Azadi Grand hotel or similar |
Parsian Evin hotel or similar |
|
Ahwaz |
Soumia hotel or similar |
Soumia Hotel or Similar |
|
Shiraz |
Shiraz Grand Hotel or similar |
Shiraz Park Saadi Hotel or similar |
|
Kerman |
Pars hotel |
Kerman tourist inn or Similar |
|
Yazd |
Parsian Safaieh hotel or similar |
Parsian Safaieh hotel or similar |
|
Isfahan |
Kowsar Hotel |
Aliqapou Hotel or Similar |
|
Tehran |
Rexan airport Hotel |
Remis airport Hotel |
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.
Grand Iran Heritage
Reference #: WTP0889
- Golestan Palace (UNESCO)
- Grand Bazaar
- Ancient Elam & Persia
- Bishapur & Tang-e Chogan
- Sassanian heritage landscapes
- Persepolis & Pasargadae
- Shiraz – Pink Mosque
- Persian gardens
- Yazd – Zoroastrian fire temple
- Desert architecture (UNESCO)
- Kerman Region – Rayen Citadel
- Shahzadeh Garden (UNESCO)
- Isfahan – Naqsh-e Jahan Square
- Kashan – Fin Garden
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Embark on an extraordinary journey through the heart of ancient Persia, exploring Iran’s most iconic cities and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Begin in vibrant Tehran, home to world-class museums, royal palaces, and historic bazaars. Travel south to Ahwaz to discover the ancient civilizations of Susa, the majestic Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat, and the ingenious hydraulic system of Shushtar. Continue to poetic Shiraz, gateway to the legendary ruins of Persepolis, Pasargadae, and Naqsh-e-Rostam, and immerse yourself in Persian art, gardens, mosques, and the legacy of great poets. Journey onward to Kerman, visiting desert citadels, lush Persian gardens, and sacred Sufi sites, before reaching mystical Yazd, the center of Zoroastrian culture with its fire temples and wind towers. Conclude in magnificent Isfahan, the jewel of Islamic architecture, with its grand squares, mosques, palaces, bridges, and Armenian heritage, before returning to Tehran via historic Kashan. A timeless voyage blending history, culture, architecture, and spirituality across one of the world’s oldest civilizations.