15 Days of Family-Friendly Fun in Tehran

  • Day 1: Golestan Palace Complex
    15 minutes (5 miles) from Tehran

    The Golestan Palace Complex is a must-see attraction in Tehran. The complex consists of royal buildings, museums, and gardens. The palace showcases Persian architecture and history. Don't miss the stunning Mirror Hall or the Marble Throne.

  • Day 2: Tehran Zoo
    20 minutes (8 miles) from Golestan Palace Complex

    The Tehran Zoo is a great spot for families with animal lovers. The zoo features local and exotic animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. There is also a playground for children, and picnic areas to enjoy.

  • Day 3: Milad Tower
    30 minutes (11 miles) from Tehran Zoo

    The Milad Tower is the sixth-tallest tower in the world and offers stunning 360-degree views of Tehran. Families can enjoy an observation deck, restaurants, and a skywalk more than 980 feet above the ground.

  • Day 4: National Museum of Iran
    20 minutes (6 miles) from Milad Tower

    The National Museum of Iran is a great place to learn about the country's history and culture. The museum features interesting exhibits, such as ancient Persian artifacts, pottery, and Islamic art. The kids' audio guide helps keep children engaged.

  • Day 5: Darband
    30 minutes (10 miles) from National Museum of Iran

    Darband is a mountainous neighborhood of Tehran that offers trail hiking, a picturesque waterfall, and plenty of restaurants with traditional Iranian cuisine. Take a relaxing stroll, breathe fresh air, and enjoy the natural beauty of Tehran.

  • Day 6: Azadi Tower
    30 minutes (11 miles) from Darband

    The Azadi Tower is a symbolic monument of Tehran that signifies the modernization and independence of Iran. The tower is located in a park, and visitors can stroll around, have a picnic, or rent bicycles to ride in the park.

  • Day 7: Carpet Museum of Iran
    25 minutes (8 miles) from Azadi Tower

    The Carpet Museum of Iran is a unique attraction in Tehran that showcases the history, art, and culture of carpet-weaving in Iran. Highlights include beautiful specimens of Persian carpets, rugs, and kilims. Families can learn about the methods and beauty of carpet weaving.

  • Day 8: Niavaran Palace Complex
    25 minutes (8 miles) from Carpet Museum of Iran

    The Niavaran Palace Complex is a great place to explore stunning royal palaces, museums, and lush gardens. The palace showcases the former royal family's lifestyle and taste with priceless Persian art, antiques, and historical objects. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views.

  • Day 9: Tehran Atashgah
    20 minutes (6 miles) from Niavaran Palace Complex

    Tehran Atashgah is a fire temple that showcases Zoroastrian culture and religion. The temple features fire altars, statues, and galleries that display the various practices and beliefs of the religion. Visitors can learn about the longstanding culture and beliefs of Iran.

  • Day 10: Ab-o-Atash Park
    30 minutes (11 miles) from Tehran Atashgah

    Ab-o-Atash Park, meaning "Water and Fire" Park, is a popular destination among families, couples, and friends. The park combines modern and traditional elements of Iranian landscapes and offers numerous outdoor activities and facilities, such as hiking trails, tennis, and swimming.

  • Day 11: Tehran International Book Fair
    20 minutes (6 miles) from Ab-o-Atash Park

    The Tehran International Book Fair is an annual event that attracts thousands of readers, authors, and publishers from around the world. The fair showcases millions of books and other literary works, providing a great opportunity for families to explore literature and culture.

  • Day 12: Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art
    25 minutes (8 miles) from Tehran International Book Fair

    The Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art is a vibrant and artistic place to learn about Iranian modern art. The museum features more than 7,000 artworks from Iranian and international artists, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. Families can enjoy innovation and creativity.

  • Day 13: Tabiat Bridge
    20 minutes (7 miles) from Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art

    The Tabiat Bridge, meaning "Nature Bridge," is a pedestrian bridge that connects two parks on either side of a busy highway. The three-story bridge features stunning architecture and offers stunning views. Families can have a picnic, walk over the bridge, and enjoy nature.

  • Day 14: Tehran Theme Park
    15 minutes (5 miles) from Tabiat Bridge

    Tehran Theme Park is a fun destination for families that offers various amusement park rides, arcades, and attractions. The park features a Ferris wheel, roller coasters, water slides, and a laser tag arena. Kids of all ages will love the adrenaline rush and excitement.

  • Day 15: National Jewelry Museum of Iran
    20 minutes (6 miles) from Tehran Theme Park

    The National Jewelry Museum of Iran is an extravagant museum that showcases a large collection of historic and valuable jewels, gemstones, and precious metal objects. Visitors can see the Iranian crown jewels, the Peacock Throne, and other iconic pieces. Families can learn about the luxury and beauty of Persian gems.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Golestan Palace Complex (2 hours, $8 per person)
  • Tehran Zoo (3 hours, $3 per person)
  • Milad Tower (2 hours, $10 per person)
  • National Museum of Iran (2 hours, $5 per person)
  • Darband (4 hours, $10 for transportation)
  • Azadi Tower (2 hours, $7 per person)
  • Carpet Museum of Iran (2 hours, $4 per person)
  • Niavaran Palace Complex (3 hours, $8 per person)
  • Tehran Atashgah (2 hours, $3 per person)
  • Ab-o-Atash Park (4 hours, $15 for facilities)
  • Tehran International Book Fair (4 hours, free admission)
  • Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art (3 hours, $7 per person)
  • Tabiat Bridge (2 hours, free admission)
  • Tehran Theme Park (5 hours, $30 per person for all rides)
  • National Jewelry Museum of Iran (2 hours, $6 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $123 per person

Transportation

Public transportation in Tehran is available through subways, bus rapid transit, and taxis. The subway system is the most efficient and affordable way to move around the city. Taxis are also easily available, but prices vary according to the distance and bargaining skill. Families can rent bicycles or use ride-share apps if they prefer a more private transportation option. Travel time can be unpredictable depending on traffic.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to Kashan, a historic city located about 2.5 hours away from Tehran. The city features stunning Persian gardens, mansions, and bazaars. Or, take a trip to the Mount Damavand, the highest peak in Iran, and engage in hiking and mountaineering. If you have less time, consider skipping Tehran Theme Park or Tehran International Book Fair, as they may not be suitable for everyone's interest.

Airports

Tehran is served by two airports, Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) and Mehrabad International Airport (THR). IKA is the main international hub, located about 30 miles southwest of the city center, and offers flights to many destinations worldwide. Mehrabad serves mostly domestic flights and is located about six miles northwest of the city center.

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