Things To Do
in Arāk

Arāk, located in the Markazi Province of Iran, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and industrial significance. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains, providing a picturesque backdrop and numerous outdoor activities. Arāk is also famous for its traditional Persian architecture, with numerous historical sites that reflect its cultural heritage.

With a mix of modern and traditional influences, Arāk offers visitors a unique glimpse into Iranian life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Arāk
morning
:

Visit the Arāk Historical Museum to learn about the city's past and view local artifacts.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll through the Bazaar of Arāk, where you can shop for traditional crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and experience traditional Iranian music performances.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike in the nearby Alvand Mountains for breathtaking views and natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Visit the Jameh Mosque of Arāk, known for its stunning architecture and intricate tile work.

evening
:

Relax at a local tea house and sample Persian sweets while mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10
Cup of coffee$2
🚕Taxi fare (within city)$3
🏨Budget hotel per night$30
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and hospitable locals.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Language barrier for non-Persian speakers.
  • Strict dress codes may be challenging for some travelers.
  • "سلام" - Hello
  • "خداحافظ" - Goodbye
  • "لطفا" - Please
  • "متشکرم" - Thank you
  • "بله" - Yes

Places to Visit in Arāk

Visit one of these nice places.

Arāk Bazaar

Captivating colors and bustling activity make this a perfect spot for street photography.

Jameh Mosque

The intricate tile work and architecture offer stunning visuals.

Alvand Mountains

Breathtaking landscapes and panoramic views ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Arāk

Arāk offers a delightful culinary experience with its unique blend of traditional Persian flavors and local specialties.

Arāk Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chelo Kebab

Grilled meat served with saffron rice, a staple dish in Iranian cuisine.

Must-Try!

Fesenjan

A rich stew made with pomegranate and walnuts, often served with chicken.

Zereshk Polo

Saffron rice topped with barberries, usually served with chicken.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Arāk Bazaar

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food.

Street Kebabs

Delicious kebabs sold by street vendors, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Arāk experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Average temperatures in summer can soar above 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures may drop to around -5°C (23°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors should dress conservatively, especially in religious sites.

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common; respect personal space.

Hospitality

Iranians are known for their hospitality; accepting invitations is a sign of respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Arāk is generally safe for visitors, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to be cautious in crowded areas and be mindful of your belongings. Emergency services are accessible, and it's wise to have local emergency numbers saved.

Tipping in Arāk

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Generally, a 10% tip is appreciated at restaurants, but not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is the most common payment method; credit cards are not widely accepted.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot days, perfect for enjoying the cooler evenings and local festivals.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage provide great hiking opportunities.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional snow; ideal for those who enjoy a winter landscape.

Nightlife Guide

Arāk at Night

Arāk's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to larger Iranian cities. However, you can find local cafes and tea houses where people gather to socialize and enjoy traditional music. While bars are not common due to cultural restrictions, some restaurants offer live entertainment in the evenings.

Hiking in Arāk

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Shahroud Hiking Trail

A scenic trail in the Alvand Mountains, suitable for all skill levels.

Bam-Cheshmeh Trail

Offers stunning views and a chance to explore diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Arāk by plane.

Shahid Babaei Airport

Located about 15 km from Arāk, this airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest for air travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Arāk is fairly walkable, especially in the central areas such as the Bazaar and historical sites. Sidewalks are available, and most attractions are within a reasonable distance from each other. However, be cautious of traffic and always use pedestrian crossings.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Persians

The majority ethnic group, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Iran.

Azerbaijanis

A significant ethnic minority group in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

A beloved sport in Iran, with local teams and passionate fans.

Wrestling

Traditional Persian wrestling is a significant cultural sport in the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Arāk can be moderate, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Be prepared for some congestion, particularly near markets and schools.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Arāk.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; just ask the staff for recommendations.

Halal Food

All food served in Arāk is halal, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Arāk is adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and visitors. Major hospitals are equipped with modern facilities, but it’s advisable to have travel insurance. Pharmacies are common and can provide over-the-counter medications.

Discover Iran

Read more in our Iran 2025 Travel Guide.

Iran Travel Guide