Start your adventure in Tehran, Iran's capital and largest city. Visit the Golestan Palace to see its stunning architecture and intricate mosaics. Then, head to the Grand Bazaar for a shopping spree of Persian rugs, spices, and souvenirs.
Experience a different side of Iran in Tabriz, known for its historic sites. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex, which dates back to the 13th century. Then, explore the Blue Mosque and the Azerbaijan Museum to learn about the region's history and culture.
Head to Hamedan, the ancient capital of the Medes. Start with a visit to the Ganjnameh Inscriptions, an archaeological site with ancient inscriptions on rocks. Then, hike up to the Ali Sadr Cave to see stunning underground waterways. Finish with a visit to the Hegmataneh Hill, which houses the ruins of the ancient city.
Explore the breathtaking city of Isfahan, known for its stunning architecture and cultural significance. Start with a visit to the Imam Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to the Imam Mosque and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. Then, walk along the Zayandeh River and visit the Siosepol Bridge.
Explore the picturesque desert city of Yazd, which has been inhabited for over 5,000 years. Visit the Zoroastrian Fire Temple to learn about the ancient religion, then head to the Jameh Mosque. Finish with a visit to the Dolat Abad Garden, which has a stunning Persian wind-catcher.
Discover the ancient city of Kerman, which was once a major stop on the Silk Road. Visit the Ganjali Khan Complex, which includes a mosque, bazaar, and bathhouse. Then, explore the Shazdeh Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a stunning design. Finish with a visit to the Rayen Castle, which is often compared to the more famous Arg-e Bam.
End your adventure in Shiraz, the cultural capital of Iran. Visit the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque to see its stunning stained glass windows, then head to the Pink Mosque and Vakil Bazaar. Finish with a visit to the Persepolis, an ancient city that was once the center of the Persian Empire.
Transportation around Iran is mainly done by bus and taxi. Buses are the cheapest option, but they can be uncomfortable for long journeys. Taxis are more expensive but offer a more comfortable ride. Domestic flights are also available, but they can be expensive. Expect to spend around 1,200,000 rials on transportation for the entire trip.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Caspian Sea coastline or the northern forests. If you have less time, consider skipping Tabriz or Kerman. Be cautious with the food and drink you consume, as hygiene standards can vary. It's best to stick to bottled water and cooked foods. Finally, always be respectful of the local culture and customs.
Iran has several international airports, but the most common point of entry is Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA). It is located about 18 miles southwest of Tehran and offers flights from major airlines such as Emirates and Qatar Airways. Other international airports include Mashhad International Airport (MHD) in Mashhad and Shiraz International Airport (SYZ) in Shiraz.