Cheetah Adventures

Iran Destinations

Introduction to the most important must-see places in Iran, Iran top travel destinations & top tourist attractions in Iran

Iran is a vast country full of glorious historical attractions and breathtaking natural sights. The diversity of attractions in Iran makes it an amazing travel destination for travelers with any taste; however, it also makes it difficult to plan an ideal Iran trip.

Although even a month of traveling through Iran may not be enough to see all there is to see, it’s possible to plan a fulfilling Iran trip that covers the best Iran destinations, the most significant Iran attractions, and most enjoyable things to do in Iran based on your preferences.

By gaining enough information about Iran, you’ll be able to get the most out of your time, visit attractions that are most compatible with your taste and have unique experiences in addition to authentic ones.

Iran is:

  • The most Budget-friendly travel destinations in the world (The World Economic Forum, 2019 Report)
  • 9th country in the world with most cultural heritage sites (UNESCO)
  • 11th travel destination in the world based on countries with most heritage sites (UNESCO)
  • More travel-related safety and security than Russia, Egypt, India, Turkey, Brazil & Thailand, etc. (The World Economic Forum, 2019 Report)
Kashan Travel Guide
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Tehran Travel Guide
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Shiraz Travel Guide
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Yazd Travel Guide
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Isfahan Travel Guide
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Kerman Travel Guide
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Tabriz Travel Guide
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Rasht Travel Guide
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Ardabil Travel Guide
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Qazvin Travel Guide
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Qeshm Travel Guide
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Bandar Abbas Travel Guide
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Iran UNESCO world heritage sites

Cultural sites:
  • Armenian Monastic Ensembles of Iran, Azarbaijan
  • Bam and its Cultural Landscape, Kerman
  • Bisotun, Kermanshah
  • Cultural Landscape of Maymand, Kerman
  • Golestan Palace, Tehran
  • Gonbad-e Qābus, Golestan
  • Historic City of Yazd, Yazd
  • Masjed-e Jāmé of Isfahan, Isfahan
  • Meidan Emam, Isfahan
  • Pasargadae, Shiraz
  • Persepolis, Shiraz
  • Sassanid Archaeological Landscape of Fars Region, Shiraz
  • Shahr-i Sokhta, Sistan
  • Sheikh Safi al-din Khānegāh and Shrine Ensemble in Ardabil
  • Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System, Khuzestan
  • Soltaniyeh, Zanjan
  • Susa, Khuzestan
  • Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex, Tabriz
  • Takht-e Soleyman, Azarbaijan
  • Tchogha Zanbil, Khuzestan
  • The Persian Garden, Many Provinces
  • The Persian Qanat, Many Provinces
Natural
  • Hyrcanian Forests, North of Iran
  • Lut Desert, Kerman

Golestan Palace, Tehran

Armenian Monastic Ensembles of Iran, Azarbaijan

Hyrcanian Forests, North of Iran

Takht-e Soleyman, Azarbaijan

Pasargadae, Shiraz

Shahr-i Sokhta, Sistan

Lut Desert, Kerman

Sheikh Safi al-din Khānegāh and Shrine Ensemble in Ardabil

Sassanid Archaeological Landscape of Fars Region, Shiraz

Persepolis, Shiraz

Naghsh-e Jahan Square (aka Emam or Imam squar), Isfahan

Masjed-e Jāmé of Isfahan

Historic City of Yazd

Historic Bazaar Complex, Tabriz

Gonbad-e Qābus, Golestan

Cultural Landscape of Maymand, Kerman

Bisotun, Kermanshah

Bam and its Cultural Landscape, Kerman

The Arg-e Bam is the largest adobe building in the world

The Persian Qanat

Ghavam Garden: One of The Persian Gardens

Tchogha Zanbil, Khuzestan

Susa, Khuzestan

Soltaniyeh, Zanjan

Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System, Khuzestan

Gallery of UNESCO world heritage sites in Iran

Click for Full List & More Description

Iran also lists more than 50 properties on the UNESCO world heritage tentative list [Source].

Iran Desert: Dasht-e Lut, which includes the hottest spot on earth & the tallest sand pyramids in the world with some being almost 480 meters

Iran Desert Dasht-e Kavir or the central desert of Iran, 300km long and 400 km wide, is the largest desert located in the Iranian plateau.

Damavand Mountain (5610m), The Highest Volcano in Asia

Damavand Tour    |    Mount Damavand Guide

Alamkuh, AKA The Alps of Iran

Read more about Alam-kuh

Mount Sabalan (4811m), 3rd most prominent peak in Iran

Read more about Sabalan


Tourist Attractions in Iran

Introduction to the most important must-see places, Iran top travel destinations & top tourist attractions in Iran

Iran is a country with ancient history, diverse culture and amazing nature. This vast country is full of outstanding tourist attractions that travelers can visit during their Iran tour.

Depending on the Iran travel destinations you choose, there will be plenty of different natural and historical attractions to choose from based on your preferences. Iran has stunning natural tourist attractions to have a great journey in, ranging from tall mountains and mesmerizing forests to unique geological sites and vast deserts.

There are also many cultural/historical attractions in Iran including palaces, historical villages, mosques and gardens. In addition, Iran has 24 UNESCO world heritage sites that you can’t miss.

The majority of travelers choose Iran cultural tours and visit the most famous Iran destinations such as Shiraz, Isfahan, Yazd and Tehran. Those who are more adventurous choose to combine their Iran cultural tour with an Iran desert tour and explore the deserts near Kashan and Isfahan as well.

On the other hand, many others travel to Iran with the purpose of trekking in Alborz Mountain Range and climb Mount Damavand (5610m), the most prominent peak in the Middle East.

It’s possible to combine different Iran tours to get a taste of various Iran tourist attractions and spend some time in nature in addition to learning about the culture and history of Iran.

Things to do in Iran

Introduction to the most important must-see places, Iran top travel destinations & top tourist attractions in Iran

In Iran, no traveler will be bored. Whether you prefer visiting sumptuous palaces and historical mosques, spending time with locals, or having some adventure in deserts and mountains, there are a lot of new and amazing things you can experience in Iran.

Those who enjoy history, arts and architecture shouldn’t miss significant historical attractions in Iran such as Persepolis and Pink Mosque (Nasir Ol Molk Mosque) in Shiraz and its nearby area, Fahadan neighborhood in Yazd, Naqsh-e Jahan Square and its surrounding monuments in Isfahan and Golestan and Sa’dabad Palaces in Tehran.

These cultural attractions are concrete history books and also introduce travelers to the Persian art of decoration and architectural style.

Those seeking to learn about the Iranian culture and lifestyle and spend time with locals can wander through the corridors of traditional bazaars or visit popular hangout places in each city such as Si-O-Se Pol in Isfahan, Bam-E Tehran and Tabiat Bridge in Tehran, Tomb of Hafez in Shiraz and Amir Chakhmaq square in Yazd.

Places such as Tomb of Hafez and Sa’adi in Shiraz give visitors a great insight into the literature of Iran while Zoorkhaneh is a great place to learn about an ancient Iranian sport.

Iran also has a lot to offer to those who enjoy being in nature and seek adventurous things to do. Mountain climbers can experience climbing the highest volcano in Asia and the most prominent peak in the Middle East, which is Mount Damavand (5610m), without technical trekking experience. They can also enjoy trekking in Iran by conquering multiple peaks above 4000 m high in Alborz Mountain Range.

These mountains have also provided the opportunity of skiing both in modern Iran ski resorts and off-piste. Another amazing way to have adventure and spend time in nature in Iran is off-roading at Iran deserts, where adventurers can admire the beauty of salt lakes and sand dunes, visit the famous Shahdad Kalouts (Yardangs) and also visit the hottest spot on earth at Gandom Beryan Region.

Lastly, you can mix adventure with geology and explore the unique geological sites on Gheshm and Hormoz Islands. Some of the most notable geological sites in Iran are Harra Sea Forest, The Red Beach on Hormoz Island, The Rainbow Valley and the Valley of Stars.

You can learn more about things to do in Iran by reading about Iran destinations on this page.

Best Cities in Iran

Introduction to the most important must-see places, Iran top travel destinations & top tourist attractions in Iran

Picking the best cities in a country to visit often requires a lot of research and it gets even more difficult when it comes to a country as diverse as Iran.

There is a lot to do and see in each of the Iran cities. Therefore, one of the factors that should be considered when choosing the best cities in Iran is personal preferences for different categories of Iran attractions. 

Each part of the country has its particular beauties and is known for a certain type of attractions. For instance, the northern cities such as Rasht, Bandar-e Anzali and Ardabil are famous for their stunning natural attractions including the Anzali Lagoon and Gardane Heyran.

However, the southern cities and Islands are the best choice for exploring unique geological phenomena such as Harra Sea Forest and the Valley of Stars on Gheshm Island and the Rainbow Valley on Hormoz Island. 

Moreover, former capitals such as Isfahan, Shiraz and Tabriz and some other cities such as Kashan and Yazd often attract the travelers’ attention for their remarkable cultural/ historical attractions and UNESCO world heritage sites such as the Persian Garden, Persepolis and the ancient city of Yazd.

Kashan, Yazd, Isfahan and Kerman are also close to deserts. On the other hand, Tehran gives travelers the opportunity to experience the modern, dynamic lifestyle of the Iranians living in this grand metropolis and is the best place to learn about the last 250 years of the history of Iran.

Tehran is also close to the best ski resorts in Iran and Mount Damavand and Alam Kuh, the highest and second-highest peaks in Iran, making it also a good destination for trekking and skiing in Iran.

Furthermore, Iran is a country with four seasons, meaning it’s possible to experience moderate weather in some parts of the country at all times. For this reason, the weather and time of travel is another important factor to consider when choosing a suitable Iran destination.

All this being said, although each traveler may have a different opinion on the best cities in Iran, the travel route that covers Tehran, Kashan, Isfahan, Yazd and Shiraz remains the most popular.

These cities are often considered the best Iran destinations due to the possibility of enjoying both cultural and adventurous activities in them and the fact that they include a large number of significant cultural attractions.

Cultural attractions in Iran

Introduction to the most important must-see places, Iran top travel destinations & top tourist attractions in Iran

Iran is best known for its ancient history and interesting culture. It is full of outstanding historical attractions some of which date back to more than 5000 years ago.

The amazing cultural attractions in Iran have always fascinated travelers and 22 of them are registered as UNESCO world heritage sites.

Some of the oldest historical sites in Iran are Persepolis located near Shiraz, Bam Citadel located near Kerman and Kharanaq village near Yazd and are more than 3000 years old.

Persepolis, the remains of the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid emperors, is the most famous UNESCO world heritage site in Iran and is a must-see attraction in the country. Historical mosques are also among significant cultural attractions in Iran.

They are known for their notable decorations especially the tilework and are each from a specific era of the history of Iran.

A few of the magnificent mosques in Iran are Pink mosque ( Nasir-ol Molk mosque) in Shiraz, Jameh mosque of Isfahan and Sheikh Lotfollah mosque also in Isfahan.

Each of these historical attractions has unique architecture and tile work. Palaces and traditional houses also comprise a large part of the most interesting historical attractions in Iran. These glorious attractions belonged to kings, noblemen and merchants from 200-500 years ago and are most famous for their grandeur and stunning embellishments.

Among them, Golestan Palace, and Sa’dabad Complex in Tehran, Ali Qapu Palace in Isfahan and Tabatabai traditional house in Kashan are the most admired.

Furthermore, the Persian Garden is another impressive cultural attraction in Iran and a UNESCO world heritage site. They often include a mansion that is architecturally significant on its own. Naranjestan Garden in Shiraz and Fin Garden in Kashan are two of the most remarkable Persian Gardens among the 9 Persian Gardens registered as a UNESCO world heritage site.

There are many other spectacular historical and cultural attractions in Iran such as traditional bazaars, ancient citadels such as Rayen Citadel, unique villages such as Abiyaneh, bridges such as Si-o-Se Pol and many others to visit in Iran. You can find more information about cultural attractions in Iran on this page (scroll to see the introduction to each city & its attractions).

Visit Iran Top Destinations

In this section you’ll read about the best cities in Iran, the most fascinating natural attractions and the most remarkable historical ones and all 24 UNESCO world heritage sites. You’ll also find interesting things to do in Iran and places to have local experiences.

  • Tehran: The capital and the dynamic beating heart of Iran, Read more
  • Kashan: The jewel of Dasht-e Kavir, and one of the most architecturally beautiful cities in Iran, Read more
  • Yazd: Located between Dasht-e Kavir desert and Dasht-e Lut desert, Yazd amazes every traveler with its beauty. Read more
  • Isfahan: Known as Nesf-e Jahan (meaning half of the world) by locals, Isfahan is the cultural capital of Iran, Read more
  • Shiraz: One of the most ancient cities in Iran and is located near Persepolis the capital of ancient Persia. Shiraz is known as the city of poetry and wine, Read more
  • Kerman: Kerman province includes the largest number of UNESCO world heritage sites in the country, Read more
  • Tabriz: One of the most historically and economically significant cities in Iran, Read more
  • Rasht: Rasht is named one of the UNESCO creative cities for its delicious and various local foods, Read more
  • Ardabil: Ardabil means holy town. Ardabil province is known for its delightful lakes and heavenly jungles. Read more
  • Qazvin: known as the city of calligraphy and satirical literature and one of the oldest cities in Iran. Read more
  • Qeshm Island: Qeshm Island is known for its unique natural attractions and stunning landscapes This magnificent Island is also a valuable Geopark. Read more
  • Bandar Abbas: The people of Bandar Abbas are famous for their unmatched kindness and hospitality. Read more

TEHRAN

Visiting the capital of any country is a must when travelling. Tehran, the dynamic beating heart of Iran is no exception. The population of Tehran is almost 15 million people which is more than the population of most European countries.

The grandeur and crowdedness of this metropolis may overwhelm you at first but once you  get around you’ll see it’s much more than traffic jams and tall buildings. This city gives you the opportunity to get a taste of diverse cultures and lifestyles of the people in Iran alongside visiting historic palaces and museums.

The cozy cafes of the capital are great for relaxing in the evenings and enjoying a cup of coffee whilst learning about  the lifestyle of young Iranians.

Tehran is the doorway to learning about the last 250 years of history of Iran.  Dating back to more than 200 years ago, Golestan Palace and Sa’d Abad complex fascinate every visitor with their grandeur and beauty.

Inspired by grand palaces in Saint Petersburg and Paris Golestan palace was the official residence of Qajar rulers and  the summer home of Pahlavi kings. Sa’d Abad complex, located in the north of Tehran, was the official residence of Pahlavi rulers. This impressive complex satisfies every traveler with its ever-green trees, interesting museums and beautiful palaces.

Tehran also has several museums such as Treasury of the National Jewels in which the dazzling Daria-i Noor diamond is kept. Tehran has so many other museums and monuments worth visiting.

Furthermore, this city, embraced by mountains in the Alborz mountain range, offers travelers the chance to spice up their vacation with a little taste of adventure such as skiing in the highest ski resort in the Middle East, conquering the high Tochal summit or enjoying the beautiful scenery whilst sitting in a cable car. 

Tabiat( nature) bridge, a pedestrian bridge connecting two parks, is a great place to spend the night and enjoy the dazzling scenery that the lights create.

Bam-e Tehran is a recreational complex located at the foothills of Mount Tochal and at the end of Velenjak Street in Tehran and is one of the locals’ favorite places to spend their evenings. This complex offers activities like Archery, Tennis, Zip line, Bungee jumping etc. 

You can also enjoy the night by taking a walk ,looking at the amazing scenery of Tehran at night and having dinner or snacks at the restaurants located in Bam-e Tehran. 

Tehran Grand Bazaar
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Tabatabai House, Kashan
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Kashan

Kashan, the jewel of Dasht-e Kavir, is one of the most architecturally beautiful cities in Iran. Many travelers choose to visit Kashan on their way to Isfahan. This oasis city is surrounded by Maranjab,Abouzeidabad,Matinabad and other deserts.

Many caravanserais were built in the deserts near Kashan for the travelers and merchants to rest. Kashan is known as the city of roses for its famous rose water. Kashan is also a popular holiday destination between Iranians due to its closeness to Tehran.

Many citizens of Tehran choose to spend their weekend exploring Abiyaneh village, the deserts around Kashan and the city itself.

Being the favorite holiday destination of nobleman and merchants in the past, this city has lavish traditional houses with stunning architecture that take your breath away. A

mong these traditional houses, Tabatabai house (Khane-e Tabatabaei) and Abbasi house ( Khane-e Abbasi) are the most impressive . Although the outside facade might not seem special, the interior is emblazoned with fine arts such as the famous stucco work of Kashan.

It’s possible to experience staying at a similar magnificent house by spending a night at one of the boutique hotels available. Sialk hills are another significant historical attraction of this city. These 7000-year-old historical hills can be very interesting for those interested in archeology.

In addition to the unique architecture, Kashan has ever-green gardens with great atmosphere such as Fin garden. Built in an oasis city, these gardens have become the visitors’ favorite place in the hot mornings.

Fin garden is one of the most famous destinations in Iran. The Hammam inside is a great example of traditional Iranian Hammams and the figures inside portray different roles in a Hammam.

Isfahan

Isfahan is the first city that comes to mind when speaking of Iran. Isfahan is the third largest city in Iran after Tehran and Mashhad and will give you a taste of modern life and the history of the country. Known as Nesf-e Jahan (meaning half of the world) by locals, Isfahan is the cultural capital of Iran.

Isfahan is the birthplace of many Iranian artworks and handicrafts as well. This city is surrounded by deserts such as Mesr desert and Varzaneh desert. The various types of activities available in Isfahan have made it one of the most popular destinations in Iran and many tourists’ favorite city.

This former capital now houses many historical attractions dating back to the Safavid era. Isfahan is the city of beautiful handicrafts and spectacular monuments. The main square of the city Naqsh-e Jahan (Imam) square is surrounded by magnificent monuments.

The so called name of Isfahan, Nesf e Jahan (meaning half of the world) refers to the wonders of the buildings in this city. The unique architecture style of these monuments catches every eye and the history behind them interests every visitor.

The meticulously designed acoustic room in the Ali Qapu palace, the unique design of the Sheikh Lotfollah mosque and the beautiful tile work in the Shah mosque will imprint an unforgettable memory on your mind. 

Chehel Sotoun pavilion (Kakh-e Chehel Sotun) is another must-see monument in Isfahan. This pavilion is known for the beautiful reflection of its pillars in the pool in front of it and the beautiful frescos on the wall telling tales of wars.

Isfahan is one of the best cities in Iran to witness the peaceful co-existence of different religions. For instance, Jolfa quarter is the Armenian/Christian neighborhood of Isfahan and is one of the oldest neighborhoods of the city.

Vank Cathedral is one of the 13 remaining cathedrals in Isfahan and is open to public. The combination of Christian frescos and Islamic tile work in this cathedral make it one of the unique attractions of this city.

Come the night, you can visit Khaju and si- o-se pol bridges. Dating back to more than 300 years ago, these bridges over Zayandeh River are the best place to experience the nightlife of Isfahan.

Sitting on the first floor of Khaju Bridge, you also get the chance to listen to people playing traditional instruments such as Tonbak, Tar, Oud and Santoor and singing. The sound of music is amplified due to the special arcades of the bridge.

Imam (Shah) Mosque, Naghsh-e Jahan Square, Isfahan
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Amir Chakhmaq Complex Square, Yazd
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Yazd

Located between Dasht-e Kavir desert and Dasht-e Lut desert, Yazd amazes every traveler with its beauty. Yazd is one of the most religious cities in Iran where Islamic ceremonies such as Muharram Mourning Ceremony are celebrated in the best way possible.

Yazd is also the birthplace of the Zoroastrian religion therefore it’s very famous for its fire temples. This city is known as the city of wind towers and Qanats and is the epitome of brilliant architecture in the middle of the desert. With its kind people and atmospheric alleyways and cafes, Yazd will steal your heart from the start. 

This UNESCO world heritage site fascinates every visitor interested in history. Jame mosque of Yazd is one of the oldest and most beautiful mosques in Iran, built during over 100 years. This magnificent mosque has some of the highest minarets in the world with almost 53 meters of height.

The stunning blue tile work of this mosque adds up to its beauty. Walking around the Jame mosque you reach Fahadan neighborhood. This labyrinth-like ancient neighborhood with its narrow alleys, cool atmosphere and cob-made houses is the best place to wander around and get to know the historic city of Yazd.

In addition to Yazd itself, Kharanq village is another historic spot worth visiting. This 4000 year old village is still home to 140 families, most of whom are Zoroastrian.

Despite being built in the middle of the desert, Yazd has amazing gardens with cool atmosphere due to the wind towers. The most famous one is the Dowlat Abad garden (Bagh-e Dolat Abad). This garden includes the tallest wind tower in the world.

The cool atmosphere, the running water and the pomegranate trees have created a great resting place in this sunny city.

Yazd is also the birthplace of one of the ancient Iranian sports. You can witness the amazing Pahlevani ritual in one of the Zoorkhanehs located in Yazd.The origin of this sport goes way back in the history of Iran.

Shiraz

Shiraz is one of the most ancient cities in Iran and is located near Persepolis the capital of ancient Persia.  Shiraz is known as the city of poetry and wine.

This beautiful city will satisfy every traveler with its amazing gardens, historical attractions and the friendly atmosphere of its people. Many choose Shiraz as the most memorable city they’ve visited in Iran.

Perhaps the first name that comes to mind when hearing of Iran is Persepolis ( Takht- e Jamshid). The ruins of Persepolis located near Shiraz are the remains of the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid dynasty.

For those interested in history, there is no better place than this 3000 years old site to get to know this ancient civilization. Persepolis enchants every traveler with its grandeur, magnificent capitals, symbols and meaningful epigraphs. Visiting Pasargadae and the tomb of Cyrus the Great is a must for getting to know the history of Iran. The tomb of this great ruler is visited by many Iranians daily.

Getting into the city you can visit the stunning Zand complex, including Arg of Karim Khan (Arg-e Karim Khan) and the Vakil complex.

Home to Karim Khan ,the founder of the Zand Dynasty, Arg of Karim Khan is an impressive citadel near the Vakil complex. This amazing citadel was built for Karim Khan and his family and served as a prison during Pahlavi dynasty.

The Vakil complex, built for people by the order of Karim Khan consists of a traditional Iranian Hammam, a mosque and a Bazaar where souvenirs and local products can be found. Not far from Vakil complex shines the stunning Nasir ol Molk mosque (Masjed-e Nasir Al Molk) or better known as Pink mosque.

The spectacular scenery that the sun shining on the colorful windows of the praying room creates has turned this mosque into one of the most popular destinations of Shiraz. Nasir ol Molk mosque is the travelers’ favorite spot for photography.

Shiraz is the origin of the delightful Persian Garden. Among the Persian Gardens located in Shiraz Eram Garden and Naranjestan Garden ( Bagh-e Naranjestan) are the most famous. Naranjestan Garden is one of the 9 gardens considered a world heritage site by UNESCO.

This gorgeous garden with its delightful atmosphere and the great smell of the orange trees in the air is one of the favorite destinations in Shiraz. The magnificent pavilion at the end of the garden belonged to the Ghavam family and is embellished with seven Iranian arts.

Shiraz, the city of poets, was the hometown of two of the most famous Iranian poets, Saadi and Hafez. Saadi is known as the master of speech for his poems talking about humanity and Hafez is known as the master of love for his unique romantic poems.

The tombs of these beloved poets are filled with people at night and are great for experiencing the nightlife of Shiraz.

Naranjestan Ghavam, Shiraz
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Shazdeh Garden, Kerman
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Kerman

Located in the south-eastern part of Iran Kerman province is the largest province in the country. This vast province includes a major part of Lut desert ( Dasht-e Lut) and the hottest known spot in the world. The largest city and capital city of this province is also named Kerman.

Kerman province includes the largest number of UNESCO world heritage sites in the country. This historical province also has amazing nature such as the beautiful Lut desert and Jupar mountain range.

The people of Kerman are the most warm-hearted, hospitable and ambitious people in Iran and will make your trip more memorable.

Kerman includes a large number of historical attractions with some dating back to thousands of years ago . Shahzadeh Mahan garden and Fath abad garden introduce the visitors to the world famous Persian gardens and make a memorable day for them with their delightful atmosphere.

It’s also possible to rent a room in the hotels located inside these gardens. Much like other cities in central Iran Kerman also includes a pedestrian square surrounded by several historical monuments that once was the most important part of the city. The bazaar, traditional bathhouse, the mosque surrounding Ganjali Khan square all have historical significance and are a great example of the Safavid architecture style.

Going a little further back into history, attractions such as Bam and Rayan citadels and Maymand village are the most significant monuments in Kerman with more than 5000 years of history. Bam and Rayan citadels are the first and second largest mudbrick structures in the world.

After years of protecting rulers and keeping invaders out, today these impressive citadels are open to public and among the must-see Kerman attractions. The fascination Maymand village is one of the two hand-carved villages that are still residential.

This ancient village is one of the most unique villages in Iran.

In addition to the impressive historical monuments, Kerman also has multiple natural attractions that can add a sense of adventure to your trip. Covering 11000 square meters of the Lut desert, the famous Kalouts near Shahdad village are the most popular natural Kerman attraction.

These naturally shaped gigantic bumps on the surface of the earth are one of the most stunning phenomena in the world. It’s also recommended to do other adventurous activities such as camel riding, ATV riding and safari whilst spending time in the desert.

Kerman province also offers several options for mountain climbing enthusiasts. A variety of activities such as skiing and mountain climbing can be done in Jupar mountain range and Mount Hezar(4501m), the highest peak in Central Iran).

Furthermore, there are several options available for those looking to spend some time in local popular spots. Strolling around in Ganjali khan square and the grand bazaar of Kerman gives travelers a chance to get to know the culture of Kerman whilst shopping.

The traditional Vakil bathhouse now serving as a teahouse is another favorite hangout place to spend the evening .

In addition, San’ati museum, the second largest museum of contemporary arts in Iran, is a great choice for art enthusiasts and the best place to observe some of the beautiful artworks in Iran.

Tabriz

Tabriz is the capital city of the East Azerbaijan Province and the third largest city in Iran. This city has been the capital of Iran in different eras and was the 5th largest city in the world during the Safavid era.

Tabriz is one of the most historically and economically significant cities in Iran and is the second industrial city of the country. This magnificent city is known for its friendly atmosphere and cleanliness. Tabriz is also called the city of firsts as it has been the pioneer in the emergence  of many technologies and facilities.

This city is one of the top travel destinations in Iran and was named the tourism capital of Islamic countries in 2018. People of Tabriz speak Azerbaijani Turkish. They have their own unique culture, traditions, arts, etc. that make this city a must-visit in Iran.

Tabriz has been a significant city in many eras, from being the capital in Safavid era to the residence of the heir to the throne. This city has many impressive historical attractions belonging to different eras.

Blue mosque.,Arg of Tabriz and Tabriz bazaar are some of the most important historical structures of the city. Built during Kara Koyunlu monarchy, Blue mosque is one of the most unique mosques in Iran.

This magnificent mosque is one of the four blue mosques in the world and was named the Turquoise of Islam due to its stunning blue tiles. Other decorations such as golden patterns  have added to the beauty of this mosque. Tabriz bazaar is another significant monument in this city.

This grand bazaar is the largest roofed bazaar in the world including 29 mosques, 24 caravanserais and several bathhouses, schools and other structures in addition to the shops. Tabriz bazaar was built in the 10th century and has long been an important trade center in Iran and Asia.

During its years of glory, this UNESCO world heritage site was on the Silk Road and was considered one of the main trade centers in the world. Today this magnificent bazaar is a great place for buying souvenirs. 

Tabriz also has 17 museums all of which are interesting in its own way. Among them Qajar museum, Azerbaijan museum and constitutional house are the most visited. Visiting these museums takes travelers back into the history of Iran and introduces them to the culture of this country and Azerbaijan province in particular.

Counting the best of Tabriz attractions, it’s impossible to exclude the mausoleum of poets. Tabriz has been home to many Iranian poets through history, many of whom have passed away in this city. Therefore, a mausoleum was built in Sorkhab graveyard to honor their memory.

The mausoleum of poets is the eternal home of more than 300 poets such as the famous Khaqani and Shahryar.

Including spectacular mountains and forests, Azerbaijan province is one of the most beautiful provinces in Iran. It’s possible to have an adventure and appreciate the beautiful nature by getting a little further away from Tabriz.

Arasbaran is a protected region located at the northern part of Azerbaijan Province. It is one of the most beautiful Hyrcanian forests in Iran. Arasbaran forest is considered a UNESCO world heritage site due to its amazing wildlife.

Tabriz is also close to many beautiful mountains, attracting mountain climbing enthusiast yearly.Sahand mountain range is the most popular among them. Sahand mountain range is known as the pearl of the mountains in Iran for its green foothills.

This mountain range is located south of Tabriz and includes 17 summits with more than 3000 meters of altitude.  While spending time in the Sahand mountain range it’s recommended to visit Kandovan village,located nearby. Kandovan village is one of the most unique historical villages in Iran.

This 3000 year old village is famous for the houses carved into rocks formed by solidified magma and shaped by nature. Kandovan is one of the two hand-carved villages in the world that are still residential. The uniqueness of the lifestyle of the inhabitants and the stunning houses of this village amaze every visitor.

Getting back into the city, there are several recreational spots available for those who wish to spend some time among the locals. Shahryar Street is a pedestrian street full of shops, restaurants and cafes .

This so called Champs-Élysées of Tabriz is a popular hangout place among the locals. Furthermore, Elgoli Park and Mount Eynali are two other popular recreational spots in Tabriz.

They offer locals and travelers a chance to enjoy activities such as  going to the amusement park, boat riding, cable car riding and playing mini golf besides spending quality time in nature. 

Elgoli Park, Tabriz
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Shahrdari Square, Rasht
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Rasht

Rasht is the capital city of Gilan province and the largest and most populated city located on the coast of Caspian Sea.

Known as the city of silver rain, this city is one of the most important rice and vegetables producers in the country due to its humid and rainy climate. Similar to rest of Gilan province, Rasht has a lush and beautiful nature.

Rasht is named one of the UNESCO creative cities for its delicious and various local foods. The people of Rasht are among the most energetic and kind people in Iran and their language is Gilaki. Rasht welcomes between 12 and 15 million visitors every year and is one of the most popular holiday destinations among Iranians.

Despite being underrated, Rasht has plenty of historical sites worth visiting. This city was expanded and modernized during Safavid and Qajar dynasties thus; today includes many historical monuments dating back to these eras.Shahrdari square is one of the most famous Rasht attractions and perhaps the most popular one.

Shahrdari square is known for the historic city hall in it which is the first one in Iran. The architecture of this grand square is inspired by Saint Petersburg .Shahrdari square is still considered the main square of Rasht and is an ideal spot for taking a walk and spending the evening.

Going through the history of Rasht and Gilan it’s impossible not to hear about Mirza Kuchuk Khan, the famous activist of the Iranian constitutional revolution that occured during the Qajar dynasty. Today his home and mausoleum are open to the public, especially those willing to learn about the history and culture of Rasht.

In addition to the historical attractions located inside Rasht there are a few others near the city that have recently become popular. The most famous one is Rudkhan Castle ( Qal’eh Rukhan).This impressive castle is one  of the most visited attractions on the coast of Caspian Sea. Visiting Rudkhan castle can turn into a great day of adventure as it is located inside a beautiful jungle and on top of the mountain.

Further exploring the rest of Gilan province, Masuleh village is another famous attraction found near Rasht. Masuleh village is one of the unique villages in Iran. This village is famous for the special structure of its houses with the roof of each house being the yard of the one above it. The spectacular scenery, created by the waterfalls and the verdurous mountain, adds to the charm of this village. 

 Rasht is located near the Caspian Sea, the largest lake in the world. The coast of the Caspian Sea has always been a popular destination among travelers, especially those living in Tehran. Visiting the Caspian Sea and spending some time on the beach is a must when travelling to Rasht.

The major part of Gilan Province is covered by beautiful forests due to its humid weather. In addition to these lush jungles other options such as multiple lakes and lagoons are available for those looking to spend a while in nature rather than staying in the city, Anzali lagoon is one of the most famous lagoons in Iran. 

It is well-known for its unique Indian lotuses that can be seen during spring. The fascinating Anzali lagoon is also the natural habitat of many bird species and fish .Furthermore, Eynak lagoon, Saqalaksar lake and the forests near Talesh can be suitable options for spending a delightful day absorbing the natural beauties of Gilan Province.  

Many consider visiting the popular hangout places in a city and spending time among the locals to be an important part of a trip. Saravan forest park is one of the best locations to fulfill that purpose. This vast forest park offers visitors great recreational options such as paintball and boat riding.

It also includes Gilan rural heritage museum where you can learn about the culture of people living in Gilan. Each part of this interesting museum is organized like a separate village with rural houses, mosques, schools and other structures preserved in their original form. Moreover, roaming around in Rasht grand bazaar is another popular thing to do in this city.

This traditional bazaar is one of the few open-air traditional bazaars in Iran and is the best place to buy souvenirs and special local food products. It’s also possible to stop by Golsar or Takhti streets afterwards to have coffee or a delicious meal.

Ardabil

Ardabil is the capital city of Ardabil province located in the northwestern part of Iran. The name Ardabil means holy town.

Ardabil province is known for its delightful lakes and heavenly jungles. Many travelers plan to come back to Ardabil after their first trip as they believe visiting it once wasn’t enough to absorb all of its beauty.

Ardabil also has a rich culture. This magnificent city is the origin of the Safavid dynasty thus; 26th of July was named the national Ardabil day. The people of Ardabil are among the most hospitable races in Iran and their language is Azeri Turkish or Azerbaijani. Ardabil is one of the top Iran destinations in summer due to its endless natural beauties and moderate weather.

Ardabil is best known for its beautiful nature, however; this city has several historical monuments as it is the birthplace of Safavid dynasty. Sheikh Safi-al Din Khanegah and Shrine Ensemble (Sheikh Safi-od Din Mausoleum) is the most important monument in Ardabil .

This complex belonged to Sheikh Safi-al Din, the eponym of the Safavid dynasty and a mystic and later became his shrine. This world heritage site amazes the visitors with its magnificent decorations and architecture.

Ghandil khane and Chini khane are two of the most stunning rooms in this complex. Similar to other Jameh mosques in Iran, Jameh mosque of Ardabil is considered one of the significant monuments of this city. Although only a few parts of this ancient mosque are still remaining, it’s still a must-see in Ardabil. In addition to the aforementioned Ardabil attractions, Ardabil bazaar is another famous monument in this city.

This historic bazaar was one of the most important trade centers in Iran during the 12th and 13th centuries as it was on the Silk Road. Today Ardabil bazaar is a great choice for buying souvenirs, handicrafts and local products.

Ardabil province is one of the most beautiful provinces in Iran. The spectacular forests and tall mountains of Ardabil attract many travelers yearly. Neor Lake is one of the famous natural attractions around Ardabil.

This amazing lake and the beautiful surrounding area can be a great spot for camping, picnics, bird watching and other activities Neor lake is also the starting point of the magnificent road leading to Subatan village. Furthermore, the Fandoqlu forest is another fascinating natural destination in Ardabil province.

Fandoqlu forest is one of the most beautiful forests in Iran and one of the top Iran attractions. This magnificent forest is famous for its unique chamomile fields, attracting many visitors in spring.

In addition to enjoying the beautiful scenery and the delightful atmosphere of the forest it’s possible to go grass skiing on the equipped field available or relax in the hot spring located in the heart of the forest. It’s also possible to see this forest while riding in a cable car.

The cable car line begins near Gardane Heyran, a beautiful road between Gilan and Ardabil provinces where lush mountains can be seen on one side and the Hyrcanian forest in Azerbaijan on the other. This dreamy road is another famous Ardabil attraction. Ardabil also includes Mount Sabalan (4811 m) the third most prominent peak in Iran and an active volcano.

In addition to the endless natural beauties of Ardabil province, this mountainous province is also very famous for the hot springs in Sarein. These natural hot springs are a great choice for relaxing after a long day and also have medical benefits.

For those looking for things to do inside Ardabil city, Shorabil Lake can be a great choice. The complex offers many options such as renting boats and jet skis, biking, carting, and zip line riding and includes an amusement park as well.

Gardaneh Heyran, Ardabil
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Aminiha Hosseiniyeh, Qazvin
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Qazvin

Qazvin is the capital city of a province of the same name. It is located in the northern part of Iran and at the foothills of Alborz mountain range. Qazvin has long been one of the important cities in Iran and is currently one of the industrial cities in the country.

Being the hometown of many artists, Qazvin is known as the city of calligraphy and satirical literature. This city is also famous for its clean air among other major cities in Iran. People of Qazvin are kind and hospitable and speak Persian with Qazvini accent.

Qazvin welcomes many visitors every year for its multiple historical attractions and is a popular destination between citizens of Tehran due to its closeness to the capital.

Qazvin is one of the oldest cities in Iran and has been significant during different eras. Qazvin was the capital of Iran for 57 years during Safavid dynasty and thus includes many amazing historical attractions such as the first street built in Iran.

This city includes 21 percent of the national heritage sites in Iran making it the first in the country. From beautiful mosques to interesting museums, historical houses and grand citadels Qazvin has a wide range of historical monuments.

Chehel Sotun palace is one of the significant Qazvin monuments. This magnificent pavilion used to be the official residence of king Tahmasp I. The interior is decorated with Persian arts such as frescos and mirror work. Today Chehel Sotun serves as a calligraphy museum.

Qazvin also has two historically significant mosques, Jameh mosque, and Nabi mosque. Jameh mosque of Qazvin is the oldest Jameh mosque in Iran. This grand mosque attracts many visitors as it is a unique combination of architectural elements from different eras.

Nabi mosque is another beautiful mosque in Qazvin and an important Qazvin attraction. The amazing tile work used in this mosque is only one of the reasons for its beauty. Museums are other important attractions in Qazvin. Qazvin museum and Anthropology museum are the most popular among several interesting museums in this city.

The anthropology museum is located inside one of the oldest and largest traditional baths in Qazvin, giving the visitors a chance to visit the bathhouse whilst learning about the culture and traditions of Iranians. Imamzadeh-ye Hossein is another must-see monument in Qazvin. Similar to other shrines in Iran, this shrine is decorated in the best way possible.

The dazzling interior of this shrine makes it one of the most remarkable Qazvin monuments. Furthermore, on impressive attractions in Qazvin, Caravanserai of Sa’d al-Saltaneh ( Sa’d-al Saltaneh Caravanserai) is undoubtedly one of the unique ones.

This vast caravanserai is also one of the most interesting structures in Qazvin due to its unique brick structure and the tile work on its dome. It’s recommended to take a walk in the rest of the historic Qazvin bazaar, the best place for buying souvenirs and local products.

Located not far away from Qazvin is Alamut Castle, the most famous monument in Qazvin. Alamut is one of the most ancient and mysterious castles in Iran. Although the major part of Alamut castle is destroyed, it’s still one of the must-see Iran monuments.

Qazvin also has several offers for those looking to spend some time in nature in addition to visiting historical monuments. Located near the famous Alamut Castle, Ovan Lake is one of the popular natural Qazvin destinations.

This amazing natural lake is a great spot for camping, bird watching, boat riding etc.The road leading up to Ovan Lake is also very beautiful. Barajin forest park is another popular natural Qazin attraction. This vast park is located only 2 km from the city and offers several recreational options such as a biking trail and an amusement park.

Qeshm

Qeshm Island is the largest island in the Persian Gulf. This Island is larger than 20 countries in the world and is full of wonders and beauties. Qeshm Island is known for its unique natural attractions and stunning landscapes This magnificent Island is also a valuable Geopark. In addition, Qeshm is an important trade center in the area, thus includes many shopping centers. The interesting geological sites, the breathtaking sceneries, various aquatic activities available alongside the opportunity to get a sense of the culture of the Southern part of Iran, has made this heavenly Island a popular holiday destination.  Qeshm Island attracts many travelers yearly, whether they’re looking for adventure or just want to relax. Traveling to Qehsm and its nearby Islands gives travelers the opportunity to relax as well as having adventures and seeing unique attractions and makes their trip and unforgettable experience  Qehsm Island attracts many travelers yearly by its unique natural attractions. The beautiful and pristine forests, caves, beaches, and valleys on this Island and the nearby Hormoz and Hengam Islands can’t be seen in another part of Iran. Harra sea forest is one of the most famous of these attractions. This forest of gray mangroves is a natural water purifier, preparing it for other plants to use. These magnificent plants are one of the few species able to grow in saltwater. Naz Island is another one of the famous Qeshm attractions. This rocky island is connected to Qeshm by a route available at the time of low tide. The sea level going down allows the travelers to stroll in the ankle-deep water and get to Naz Island. Furthermore, Qeshm Island has several interesting geological sites. A few of these sites are the valley of stars and Chahkooh Canyon. These stunning geological sites are known for the amazing and wondrous shapes of the rocks. These phenomena are a result of erosion. Moreover, Qeshm Island also includes several caves with Namakdan cave being the most visited. The spectacular stalactites in this cave were formed during 57 million years.  The nearby Hormoz Island is another unique Island in the Persian Gulf. It is well-known for its fascinating colorful soil and beautiful shore. The unique soil found in the Rainbow valley is consisted of almost 70 different minerals. Hormoz Island also includes several beaches all of which are unique in their own way. The turtles’ beach is one of the few places in Iran where you can witness baby turtles crawling towards the sea in spring. The red beach is another famous beach on this Island. The red soil of this beach is edible and is an important resource.  In addition to the breathtaking sights and amazing beaches, the Islands in the Persian Gulf are great locations for resting and enjoying aquatic activities. The clean beaches, warm and invigorating water, and the variable activities available such as diving, swimming, etc. have made these Islands popular vacation destinations. These shores are also suitable for camping and spending a few nights relaxing and sleeping under the stars.
Rainbow Valley, Qeshm
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Bandar Abbas Bazaar
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BANDAR ABBAS

Located on the coast of the Persian Gulf, Bandar Abbas is the second-largest city in the southern part of Iran and the capital city of Hormozgan province. It is one of the most important port cities in Iran and an important trade center in Asia.

The strategic location of Bandar Abbas has made it an important city through the history of Iran. The people of Bandar Abbas are famous for their unmatched kindness and hospitality. They speak Persian with their own special accent and their interesting culture and traditions are unique in the country.

Bandar Abbas is the best place to learn about the unique culture of the southern part of Iran.