Things To Do
in Qom

Qom is a city in Iran known for its religious significance, being home to the sacred shrine of Fatima Masumeh, attracting pilgrims from all over the country and beyond. The city boasts a rich history, with beautiful architecture representing various eras and styles. As a center of Islamic scholarship, Qom plays a vital role in the spiritual and educational aspects of Shia Islam.

Visitors can experience the unique blend of culture, tradition, and hospitality that characterizes this vibrant city.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Sacred Sites
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Fatima Masumeh Shrine, a stunning example of Islamic architecture and a significant pilgrimage site.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Qom Museum to explore the artifacts and exhibits showcasing the city’s history and culture.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with a stroll in the local bazaar, where you can shop for traditional crafts and enjoy a light dinner at a nearby restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin your second day with a visit to the Jamkaran Mosque, known for its spiritual significance and beautiful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Visit the Qom University of Religious Sciences to appreciate its architecture and learn about its educational significance.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Iranian dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes while enjoying live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee$1.50
🚌Public bus fare$0.25
🛏️Hotel night$30
🛒Grocery shopping (per week)$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and religious heritage.
  • Warm hospitality from locals.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Hot summers may be uncomfortable.
  • Language barrier for non-Persian speakers.
  • "سلام" - Hello
  • "خداحافظ" - Goodbye
  • "لطفا" - Please
  • "متشکرم" - Thank you
  • "بله" - Yes

Places to Visit in Qom

Visit one of these nice places.

Fatima Masumeh Shrine

A breathtaking site with intricate tile work and stunning architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Qom.

Jamkaran Mosque

This mosque features beautiful minarets and a serene atmosphere, ideal for photography during sunset.

Qom Bazaar

The vibrant market scenes and colorful stalls provide great opportunities for candid photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Qom

Qom offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich variety of local dishes and street food, reflecting the region's culture and hospitality.

Qom Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Biryani

A flavorful rice dish often made with meat and spices, popular in the region.

Must-Try!

Kebab

Grilled meat skewers served with rice and grilled vegetables, a staple in Iranian cuisine.

Saffron Ice Cream

A sweet delicacy flavored with saffron, pistachios, and rosewater.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Qom Bazaar

A bustling market where you can find various local dishes, sweets, and spices.

Street Vendors

Numerous vendors sell fresh fruits, nuts, and traditional snacks throughout the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Qom has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cool winters. Summer temperatures often exceed 40°C (104°F), while winters can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rain is infrequent, with most precipitation occurring in the winter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Code

Visitors should dress modestly, with women required to wear a headscarf in public spaces.

Respect for Religious Sites

Always show respect when visiting mosques and religious sites, maintaining a quiet demeanor.

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common among men, while women may greet each other with a smile or nod.

Safety Guide

Safety

Qom is generally safe for tourists, but standard safety precautions should be taken. Avoid wandering alone at night, and keep personal belongings secure in crowded areas.

Tipping in Qom

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is a common practice.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred in most places, as credit cards may not be widely accepted.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an excellent time to visit, ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot temperatures can be challenging; however, early mornings and evenings are pleasant for exploration.

Autumn

Cooler weather and beautiful foliage provide a lovely backdrop for sightseeing.

Winter

Cold temperatures can be expected; dress warmly, but the city is less crowded, offering a peaceful experience.

Nightlife Guide

Qom at Night

Qom's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to larger cities. Most activities revolve around family-friendly venues and social gatherings in homes or restaurants. Cafes and eateries may stay open late, providing a cozy atmosphere for conversation and relaxation.

Hiking in Qom

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Agha Bozorg

A popular hiking destination offering scenic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

Darband Valley

This area provides various trails suitable for all levels of hikers, with beautiful natural scenery.

Airports

How to reach Qom by plane.

Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA)

Located about 120 km from Qom, this international airport offers flights to and from major cities worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Qom is relatively walkable, particularly in the city center where many attractions are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, but be cautious of traffic, as vehicles may not always yield to pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Shia Muslims

As a religious center, the majority of the population identifies as Shia Muslims, adhering to Islamic teachings.

Students

Qom hosts a large number of students from various regions studying at its religious institutions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Iran, with local teams generating much enthusiasm among fans.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling is also significant, with local competitions held regularly.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Qom can be congested during peak hours, particularly near the bazaar and religious sites. Public transportation includes buses and shared taxis, which are economical options for getting around the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Qom.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to inquire about ingredients.

Halal Food

All food in Qom is Halal, catering to Muslim dietary laws.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Qom are satisfactory, with several hospitals and clinics providing quality care. Pharmacies are widely available for over-the-counter medications, but it's advisable to carry basic medications for common ailments.

Discover Iran

Read more in our Iran 2025 Travel Guide.

Iran Travel Guide