UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Book Attractions in Advance
Skip the lines at Iran's top attractions by booking tickets in advance through Tiqets. Get instant confirmation and mobile tickets for museums, palaces, and experiences across Iran.
Persepolis
Discover the ancient ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire with grand palaces and intricate reliefs.
Especially impressive at sunrise, perfect for history buffs exploring Persia's imperial legacy.
Pasargadae
Visit the tomb of Cyrus the Great and expansive gardens showcasing early Persian architecture.
A serene site blending archaeology and landscape, ideal for reflective walks.
Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Isfahan
Admire the Shah Mosque and Ali Qapu Palace in this vast historic plaza.
Markets and fountains create a lively hub perfect for immersing in Safavid culture.
Historic City of Yazd
Explore wind towers and qanats in this desert adobe city.
Combining Zoroastrian heritage with sustainable architecture in a timeless setting.
Lut Desert
Uncover dramatic salt flats and star-filled skies in Iran's vast wilderness.
Less crowded, offering a peaceful alternative for stargazing and geology enthusiasts.
Golestan Palace, Tehran
Visit this Qajar-era complex with mirrored halls and lush gardens.
Fascinating for those interested in royal history and Persian artistry.
Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures
Alborz Mountains
Hike through rugged peaks and valleys, ideal for adventure seekers with trails to alpine lakes.
Perfect for multi-day treks with scenic viewpoints and wildlife spotting.
Caspian Sea Coast
Relax on sandy beaches in Bandar Anzali with promenade walks and seaside cafes.
Family-friendly fun with fresh caviar and coastal breezes in summer.
Dasht-e Kavir Desert
Explore salt lakes and dunes via camel safaris, attracting nature photographers.
Serene spot for picnics and stargazing with diverse arid ecosystems.
Hyrcanian Forests
Wander ancient woodlands near the Caspian, perfect for easy hikes and family outings.
This lush forest offers a quick nature escape with biodiversity trails.
Zagros Mountains Rivers
Kayak along the Karun River with stunning cliffs and villages, ideal for water sports.
Hidden gem for scenic drives and riverside picnics.
Persian Gulf Islands
Discover coral reefs and beaches on Qeshm Island with boat tours.
Marine adventures connecting to Iran's coastal heritage and tropical charm.
Iran by Region
🏙️ Tehran Province (Central)
- Best For: Urban energy, modern history, and bazaars with vibrant cities like Tehran.
- Key Destinations: Tehran, Karaj, and Damavand for palaces and mountain bases.
- Activities: Palace tours, museum visits, street food tastings, and skiing in winter.
- Best Time: Spring for blooms (April-May) and autumn for mild weather (Sept-Nov), 10-25°C.
- Getting There: Well-connected by train from other cities, with private transfers available via GetTransfer.
🕌 Isfahan Province
- Best For: Islamic architecture and bridges, as Persia's cultural heart.
- Key Destinations: Isfahan for squares, nearby Natanz for historic mosques.
- Activities: Bridge walks, tilework workshops, Persian cuisine, and garden explorations.
- Best Time: Year-round, but spring (March-May) for festivals and Zayandeh River flow.
- Getting There: Tehran Airport is the main hub - compare flights on Aviasales for best deals.
🏛️ Fars Province (South)
- Best For: Ancient ruins and Zoroastrian sites, featuring Persepolis.
- Key Destinations: Shiraz, Persepolis, and Pasargadae for imperial history.
- Activities: Tomb visits, poetry readings, rosewater festivals, and desert excursions.
- Best Time: Spring for wildflowers (April-May) and winter for mild 15-20°C escapes.
- Getting There: Rent a car for flexibility in exploring remote ruins and villages.
🌊 Gilan & Mazandaran (North)
- Best For: Lush greenery and Caspian beaches with a relaxed vibe.
- Key Destinations: Rasht, Bandar Anzali, and Masuleh for coastal and village charm.
- Activities: Forest hikes, seafood dining, tea plantations, and boat rides.
- Best Time: Summer months (June-Aug) for warmth, with humid 20-30°C and sea breezes.
- Getting There: Direct trains from Tehran or buses, with coastal roads connecting beach towns.
Sample Iran Itineraries
🚀 7-Day Iran Highlights
Arrive in Tehran, explore Golestan Palace, visit the Grand Bazaar for modern contrasts, sample saffron rice, and experience Azadi Tower landmarks.
Train to Isfahan for Naqsh-e Jahan tours and bridge walks, then head to Yazd for wind tower visits and Zoroastrian fire temples.
Travel to Shiraz for gardens and tombs, with a day trip to Persepolis ruins and ancient reliefs.
Final day in Tehran for rug bazaars, last-minute shopping, and departure, ensuring time for local tea house tastings.
🏞️ 10-Day Adventure Explorer
Tehran city tour covering Golestan Palace, National Museum, Grand Bazaar, and Milad Tower exploration with local food markets.
Isfahan for historic sites including square rides and mosque architecture, then Yazd for desert walks and ancient markets.
Shiraz for poetry sites and gardens, then drive to Persepolis for ruin exploration and Pasargadae visits.
Full outdoor adventure with forest hiking in Hyrcanian woods, beach relaxation, and stays in charming seaside villages.
Mountain day trips near Tehran with scenic hikes and cultural sites before returning to the capital.
🏙️ 14-Day Complete Iran
Comprehensive Tehran exploration including museums, food tours, bazaar walks, and modern institution visits.
Isfahan for squares and mosques, Yazd for wind towers and deserts, Kashan for gardens and historic houses.
Persepolis ruin hikes, Shiraz poetry experiences, Zoroastrian site tours, and rose valley excursions.
Caspian beaches in Bandar Anzali and Rasht, followed by Alborz hikes and tea plantation visits.
Lut Desert for stargazing and salt flats, final Tehran experiences with last-minute shopping before departure.
Top Activities & Experiences
Bazaar Shopping Tours
Wander through Tehran's Grand Bazaar for spices, rugs, and handicrafts with guided haggling tips.
Available year-round with evening sessions offering vibrant ambiance and local interactions.
Persian Tea Ceremonies
Sample traditional teas and sweets at historic teahouses across Iran.
Learn brewing rituals from local hosts and expert tea masters.
Carpet Weaving Workshops
Create your own Persian knot in Isfahan's artisan ateliers with expert guidance.
Learn about wool dyeing and traditional Iranian weaving techniques.
Mountain Biking Tours
Explore Alborz trails and Caspian paths on rented bikes with scenic routes.
Popular paths include forest tracks and coastal roads with moderate terrain.
Miniature Painting Classes
Discover Persian art at workshops in Shiraz and Isfahan with illuminated manuscripts.
Works by classical masters and contemporary Iranian artists with guided sessions.
Desert Camel Treks
Tour Lut or Kavir deserts on camelback with overnight camps under stars.
Many sites offer cultural exhibits and nomadic experiences for immersion.