Begin your journey by exploring Persepolis, a World Heritage Site and a symbol of ancient Persia's power. Built-in 518 BCE, it was the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. The next stop is the Nasir-al-Mulk Mosque, also known as the Pink Mosque, renowned for its stunning architectural design that incorporates vibrant colors into its stained-glass windows. Lastly, visit the Karim Khan Citadel, a fascinating 18th-century fortress with an impressive history and intriguing architecture.
Begin with a visit to the Eram Garden, a remarkable Persian Garden with delightful trees, flowers, and fountains. Then head to Hafezieh, to pay homage to Hafez, the great 14th-century Persian poet. Enjoy the stunning architecture of Naranjestan Garden, a Persian garden with a rich history and vibrant design. End your day by visiting the Arg-e Karimkhan, a remarkable citadel with a rich Persian history and a range of fascinating artistic displays inside its walls.
Begin by attending the Vakil Bazaar, a traditional Persian marketplace with a wide variety of shops, each showcasing Persian culture and art. Next, head to the Nasir ol Molk Mosque, also known as the stained glass mosque, to witness the surreal light show created by the sunlight that filters into the mosque through its colorful stained-glass windows. Finally, visit the Tomb of Saadi, the mausoleum of the famous Persian philosopher and poet Saadi, to honor his memory and to explore the gardens, water features and architecture of the surrounding area.
To explore Shiraz, you can use various modes of transportation, such as buses, taxis, and private cars. The cost of taxis and buses are around 60,000 Rials, while private cars are typically more expensive. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive within the city. However, renting a car is considerably more expensive than public transportation. It's important to check the opening and closing times of attractions before planning your route, as many locations have varying hours of operation.
If you have more time, you can consider visiting other scenic and historical sites nearby, such as the Shah-e-Cheragh mosque or the Quran Gateway. If you have less time, you can prioritize visiting only the most significant historical sites such as Persepolis and the Karim Khan Citadel.
The main airport serving Shiraz is the Shiraz International Airport (SYZ), located approximately 9.5 km south-west of the city center. Several airlines such as Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Emirates operate flights to and from Shiraz.