Things To Do
in Rasht

Rasht, the capital of Gilan Province in northern Iran, is known for its rich culture, lush landscapes, and significant role in the country's history. Nestled between the Caspian Sea and the Alborz Mountains, it boasts a mild climate and verdant scenery. The city is famous for its unique cuisine, vibrant bazaars, and friendly locals.

Visitors can experience a blend of traditional Persian culture and the local Gilaki lifestyle.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Rasht
morning
:

Start your day at the Rasht Grand Bazaar, where you can explore local shops and enjoy breakfast at a traditional tea house.

afternoon
:

Visit the Rasht Museum to learn about the region's history and culture, followed by a stroll in the beautiful Shahrdari Park.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Gilan cuisine, then take a leisurely walk by the river.

day 2
Day 2: Natural Beauty and Local Culture
morning
:

Take a short trip to the picturesque coastal town of Anzali and enjoy a boat ride on the Anzali Lagoon.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Caspian Sea beaches, relaxing on the sandy shores or engaging in water sports.

evening
:

Return to Rasht for dinner at a local eatery, followed by experiencing the local nightlife at a café or traditional music venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10
Coffee at a café$2
🚕Taxi fare within the city$3
🏨Hotel per night$35
🛍️Souvenir shopping$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
  • Delicious and unique cuisine.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges.
  • Public transportation options are limited.
  • Weather can be quite humid in summer.
  • "سلام" - Hello
  • "خداحافظ" - Goodbye
  • "لطفا" - Please
  • "متشکرم" - Thank you
  • "بله" - Yes

Places to Visit in Rasht

Visit one of these nice places.

Rasht Grand Bazaar

Capture the vibrant atmosphere and traditional architecture of this bustling market.

Shahrdari Park

A scenic park with beautiful landscapes, perfect for nature photography.

Anzali Lagoon

Stunning views of the lagoon at sunset, with opportunities to photograph local birds and boats.

Culinary Guide

Food in Rasht

Rasht is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of unique dishes that reflect the rich agricultural landscape of Gilan Province.

Rasht Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mirza Ghasemi

A smoky eggplant dip prepared with tomatoes, garlic, and eggs.

Must-Try!

Bademjan Polow

Saffron rice served with spiced eggplant and herbs.

Fesenjan

A rich stew made with pomegranate molasses and walnuts, often cooked with chicken or duck.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Rasht Traditional Bazaar

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

Gilan Street Food

Try local snacks like 'Kabab', 'Borek', and sweet 'Zoolbia' from street vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Rasht has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by mild winters and warm, humid summers. Rainfall is abundant throughout the year, particularly in autumn and winter, making the region lush and green. Spring and summer bring warmer temperatures, with averages around 20°C to 30°C, while winter temperatures can drop to 5°C or lower.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors should dress conservatively, respecting local customs.

Greetings

A handshake is common, but wait for the local to extend their hand first.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to older individuals; it is customary to greet them first.

Safety Guide

Safety

Rasht is generally safe for tourists; however, it's advisable to remain vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services are accessible, and locals are helpful if assistance is needed. Always be respectful of local customs to avoid misunderstandings.

Tipping in Rasht

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants, though service charges may apply.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, some places accept cards, especially in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a beautiful time to visit.

Summer

Warm and humid, ideal for beach outings but can be quite hot.

Autumn

Cooler weather with stunning fall foliage, perfect for outdoor activities.

Winter

Cold and rainy, but the surrounding mountains offer opportunities for winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Rasht at Night

Rasht's nightlife is vibrant yet culturally rooted, with many cafes and restaurants offering live music and traditional performances. The atmosphere is generally relaxed, and locals enjoy gathering in public spaces to socialize. While bars are not prevalent due to local customs, tea houses and shisha lounges are popular spots for evening relaxation.

Hiking in Rasht

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Siahkal

A popular hiking destination offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and forests.

Taleghan Valley

A picturesque hiking area known for its natural beauty and diverse flora.

Airports

How to reach Rasht by plane.

Rasht International Airport (Rasht)

Located about 10 km from the city center, it serves domestic flights and a few international routes, making it accessible for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Rasht is a relatively walkable city, especially in the downtown area where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are concentrated. The sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian traffic is common. However, be cautious around busy streets and always use designated crossings.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Gilaki People

The indigenous people of Gilan Province, known for their rich cultural heritage and distinct language.

Tehranis

Many residents from Tehran travel to Rasht for holidays and weekends, contributing to the city's diverse cultural mix.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Rasht, with local teams drawing large crowds during matches.

Wrestling

Traditional wrestling is a celebrated sport in the region, often showcased during local festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Rasht can be congested during peak hours, especially near the city center. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, but services may be less frequent outside of peak times. It is advisable to plan trips accordingly and consider walking or using taxis for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Rasht.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes are vegetarian-friendly, but it's advisable to ask about meat in stews.

Halal Food

All food options in Rasht are halal, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Rasht are adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services are accessible, and many healthcare professionals speak some English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Iran

Read more in our Iran 2025 Travel Guide.

Iran Travel Guide