Things To Do
in Iran
Iran is a land of ancient empires, dramatic landscapes, and enduring traditions. From the marble mosques and bustling bazaars of its great cities to the rugged beauty of deserts, mountains, and the Caspian coast, Iran offers a tapestry of culture and history. Persian hospitality, tea culture, and a rich culinary scene shape daily life in both urban centers and rural towns.
Traveling here reveals a country where tradition and modernity mingle against a backdrop of deserts, lush forests, and snow-capped peaks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in Iran's capital, Tehran, by visiting the National Museum of Iran. Here, you can marvel at artifacts that trace the history of this ancient civilization. Afterward, head to Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to admire its stunning gardens and intricate architecture.
Next, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant downtown, trying traditional Persian dishes like kebabs and saffron rice. Afterward, visit the bustling Grand Bazaar to experience the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps buy some local handicrafts. Don't miss the chance to sip on Iranian tea while taking in the lively ambiance around you.
As the sun sets, visit the Milad Tower for panoramic views of the city skyline. Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant, savoring the flavors of Persian cuisine under the starry sky. End your day with a stroll in one of Tehran’s beautiful parks, soaking up the local culture.
Travel to Isfahan, a city famed for its breathtaking Persian architecture, starting your day with a visit to the stunning Naghsh-e Jahan Square. This historic site is surrounded by remarkable buildings, including the Sheikh Lotfallah Mosque and Ali Qapu Palace, setting the stage for a culture-rich morning. Don't forget to take a leisurely stroll through the square, enjoying the lush gardens and fascinating street life.
After lunch at a traditional restaurant where you can taste local specialties such as Biryani, visit the historic bridges of Isfahan, including the iconic Si-o-se-pol. Take your time exploring the intricate tile work and soaking in the views of the Zayandeh River. Your afternoon will buzz with activities, from visiting shops to taking photographs of this picturesque city.
As night falls, take a walk along the riverbank and admire the illuminated bridges, a surreal sight that captures the essence of Isfahan. Dine at a local eatery that offers a delightful selection of Persian dishes, ideally served under the moonlight. Conclude your evening with a traditional music performance at one of the cultural centers, giving you a deeper appreciation for Persian art.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $15-28 |
| 🏨3-star hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🚊Local transit (1 ride) | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in cafe | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and UNESCO sites
- Warm hospitality and tea culture
- Limited credit card acceptance in some places
- Varying infrastructure outside major cities
- "سلام" - Hello
- "متشکرم" - Thank you
- "لطفاً" - Please
- "کجا است؟" - Where is it?
- "چقدر است؟" - How much is this?
- "بله" - Yes
- "نه" - No
- "من گرسنهام" - I am hungry
Places to Visit in Iran
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand, symmetrical square framed by water features and exquisite mosques, ideal for dawn and golden-hour photography.
Iconic cliff-carved ruins with towering stairs and sweeping horizons for dramatic wide shots.
Mirrored halls and ornate tiling provide dazzling interior reflections and courtyard photography.
Cityscapes from viewpoints such as Milad Tower or other skyline vantage points.
Ingenious waterworks and bridges offering unique architectural and landscape compositions.
Food in Iran
Iran Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled kebabs served atop fluffy saffron rice with grilled tomato and a knob of butter.
Must-Try!
A rich walnut and pomegranate sauce simmered with chicken or duck, served with rice.
Herb-packed lamb or beef stew with dried lime, served with rice.
The coveted crispy, golden crust at the bottom of the rice pot.
A hearty noodle soup with herbs, beans, and kashk (fermented dairy).
Herb-packed frittata that makes for a bright, flavorful meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic market where you can sample fresh herbs, nuts, saffron, and regional sweets, plus quick kebabs and snacks in between stalls.
A labyrinth of copper, textiles, spices, and white-throated sweets; great for discovering local flavors and picking up saffron ice cream.
A traditional bazaar filled with spices, handicrafts, tea houses, and savory treats to taste on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Public dress should be modest; women typically wear headscarves and long coats, and men avoid overly casual dress in cities.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas or religious sites.
Hospitality is central; accept tea or sweets offered by locals and respond with warmth and politeness.
Public displays of affection are discouraged; keep voices moderate in sacred or religious spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Iran
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of about 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included. Rounding up taxi fares is common; small tips to hotel staff are customary.
Cash is widely used; Iranian Rial or Toman prices are common. Card payments may be limited due to sanctions; ATMs are common in cities. Carry cash in small denominations for street purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and flowering gardens in northern Iran; excellent for Alborz hikes and city walks in Isfahan and Shiraz.
Very hot in central and southern regions; cooler in the north and along the Caspian coast; plan morning activities and evening outdoor time.
Comfortable temperatures; a great time for outdoor photography, deserts, and exploring architectural sites without the peak crowds.
Snow in the north and at higher elevations; hot tea and indoor sights shine; desert nights can be cold but stunning with clear skies.
Iran at Night
Hiking in Iran
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iran’s highest peak in the Alborz Mountains; challenging day or multi-day hike with glacier views.
Accessible day hikes near Tehran with scenic viewpoints and cable car options.
A dramatic, rugged valley with castle ruins and extensive hiking routes.
Desert hikes and stargazing near Aran-o Bidgol with vast sandy landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Iran by plane.
Main international gateway to Iran; extensive flight connections and access to the city by road or rail.
Major regional hub with domestic and some international connections; convenient for accessing central Iran.
Gateway to Persepolis and the Fars region; good for southern Iran travel.
Northeast gateway with many domestic routes; close to holy sites and transit to Turkmenistan region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest cultural group, predominantly Persian-speaking with strong national identity.
Significant regional groups with distinct languages and traditions in the north and west.
Smaller but culturally important populations across various regions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the country with passionate local support.
Deeply rooted in culture and a popular traditional and modern sport.
Widely played in schools and clubs with enthusiastic local followings.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are meat-based, so look for vegetarian stews or ask for vegetable-based meals. Request no meat stock, and rely on herb stews, beans, and rice with grilled vegetables.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Iran.