Arrive in Tehran and take a morning tour to Golestan Palace, a masterpiece of the Qajar era architecture, then move onto National Museum of Iran where the pre-Islamic and Modern Era artifacts are on display. Afterward, take a stroll through Tabiat bridge, one of the symbols of Tehran's modern architecture, connecting two parks across a highway. End the day at Milad Tower, the tallest tower in Iran, offering panoramic views of Tehran.
Start the day at Fin Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking design integrating natural elements like water and trees. Visit Azadi Mosque, one of the oldest and most beautiful mosques in Iran, and then head to the Maranjab Desert for sandboarding and a jeep excursion. End the day by visiting Borujerdi House, an architectural masterpiece of the Qajar era.
Begin the day at Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the second-largest square in the world showcasing Islamic architecture with its surrounding grand bazaar and mosaic tiles adorning the mosques. Move onto the remarkable Si-o-se-pol, a 17th-century bridge on the Zayanderud River. Afterward, visit the Indo-Islamic-style Chehel Sotoun palace with beautiful frescoes and ornamental tiles.
Explore the land of poetry and literature, starting with Persepolis, the UNESCO World Heritage site of the ancient Persian city founded 500 BC, and then onto Naqsh-e Rustam where the rock tombs of Ancient Persian kings are located. Afterward, head to Eram Garden, a pleasant Persian garden depicting the embodiment of the Persian art of gardening.
Start the day at the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, known as the Pink Mosque, featuring stunning colored glass and tiles that reflect beautiful patterns onto the floor, then move onto Qavam House, where traditional Iranian architecture meets European and Russian styles. End the day visiting Shapouri House, a unique residence of traditional origin that featured a beautiful museum and delicately decorated rooms.
Visit Towers of Silence, an important Zoroastrian site, and then head to the beautiful preserved city of Yazd where you can visit the ancient Amir Chakhmaq square and the tallest mud-brick Jameh Mosque of Yazd before exploring the narrow alleys of the old city.
Spend your last day at the Great Lut desert, a mesmerizing landscape with dazzling sand dunes and breathtaking sunsets. Or alternatively, opt to explore Bagh-e Dolat Abad garden, famous for its windcatchers, and then head to the Yazd bazaar for Persian handicrafts and souvenirs.
To explore the cities and ancient sites, the traveler would require a combination of local shared minivans, taxis, or private cars which may range roughly between 1,200,000 and 2,800,000 Rial. The cost may depend on the desired comfort level and distance from the site. Train journeys may vary from 130,000 to 240,000 Rial per journey, depending on the ticket class.
If you have more time, consider visiting other notable destinations like the tourist town of Kish Island or the sublime northern city of Rasht. Try traditional Persian foods like Gheymeh or Khoresh-e Fesenjān, with pomegranate syrup and walnuts. Alternatively, if you have less time, you may skip some destinations or activities, but we recommend keeping the ancient cities of Persepolis, Fin Garden, and Isfahan intact!
Iran's main airport is Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) situated 30 kilometers southwest of Tehran, with IATA code IKA. Several buses and trains are available from the city center to reach the airport, taking roughly an hour to arrive.