Iran Travel Guide – SG Travelers

Iran is a nation in the Middle East with a rich history and culture. Iran has many sights and attractions and is a great destination for the modern traveler.

This travel guide will give you essential information about Iran, from famous attractions to transportation and accommodation. So get ready to explore the wonders of this ancient land!

History of Iran

Located in Southwest Asia, modern Iran lies near the site of one of the world’s earliest civilizations. The country has a long and complex history dating back to 2500 BC when a tribal union known as the Proto-Elamite settled in the region.

The Kurds conquered the ancient Elamite kingdom in 640 BC, forming what is considered Iran’s first native dynasty. By combining their culture with Elamite traditions and adopting Zoroastrianism as their religion, they established the more excellent Persian state that became an influential power during antiquity.

Successive conquests followed this period by the Medes, Achaemenids, Seleucids, Parthians, and Sassanians. The Seljuk Turks brought Islam to Iran in 1055, and Shia Islam later became a state religion under Safavids, who succeeded them as rulers at the turn of the 16th century.

The Safavid Empire proliferated for two centuries until Afghans superseded it and then overthrown by Nader Shah Afshar in 1738. His successor Karim Khan Zand declared himself governor of Persia but left his successors with a turbulent legacy that reignited after his death when the Qajar family took control of government affairs in 1794 with two centuries lasting rule of the dynasty.

Geography

The Islamic Republic of Iran is a transcontinental country in the Middle East, spanning 1,648,195 square kilometers. It shares its borders with Armenia and Azerbaijan to the northwest, Turkmenistan to the north, Pakistan and Afghanistan to the east, and Turkey and Iraq to the west. It also has a 2,000 km coastline along the Persian Gulf and the Caspian Sea in its southwestern region.

Most of Iran is located on a high-altitude plain called Dasht-e Kavir (“Great Desert”) and Dasht-e Lut (“Emptied Plain”). The two major mountain ranges in Iran are the Alborz Mountains in the north, which contain Masoumeh Peak (the highest peak of Iran at 4,481m above sea level), and the Zagros Mountains run along its western border. These mountains hide several valleys, such as Zaribar Valley, Haraz Valley, and Shirvan Valley.

The main rivers running through Iran are:

Karun River (the longest river in Iran)
Zayanderud River (the biggest river in-country)
Sefid Rud River (located in northern Gilan province)
Karkheh River (located along Khuzestan borders)
Paliz River (running from the Iraqi Kurdistan region through Iranian areas)
Yassuj River (in Kermanshah province).

Culture and Religion

Iran is a highly religious society, and its ancient culture is fascinating and complex. The majority of Iranians are Shi’a Muslims, though there are significant populations of Sunnis, Christians, Jews, and Zoroastrians as well.

Many customs harken back to ancient Iran – from the festive Persian New Year celebration known as Nowruz (Persian for “new day”) in March to colorful public fire festivals in late winter that honor the legendary king Jamshid. However, more recent holidays revolve around the Islamic calendar – like Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan; Eid al-Adha (the feast of sacrifice); Ashura (which mourns the death of Imam Hussein); and Milad un Nabi (celebration of Prophet Mohammed’s birthday) – each with their traditional foods and rituals.

Young people often break away from tradition by enjoying movies at cinema halls or drinking coffee or tea with friends. However, traditional hospitality plays a vital role in Iranian culture, with visitors expected to bring – and receive – gifts such as pastries or candy.

Covering your head is not required for non-Muslims visiting Iran, but all women must dress modestly: this includes scarves on heads plus long trousers or skirts that reach just below the knee and long sleeves that come down at least to elbow length.

Planning Your Trip

Planning a trip to Iran can be quite an adventure! With a rich cultural history and stunning landscapes, Iran offers much to the eager traveler. However, before you start your journey, you must consider a few things when planning your trip. From visas and vaccines to accommodation and transportation, careful planning can ensure that your trip is safe and enjoyable.

In this guide, we’ll go over all of the necessary steps to make sure that your trip to Iran goes smoothly:

Visa Requirements

Iran has some of the world’s most complicated visa requirements for travelers. All nationals who are not from the countries listed below must obtain a visa before entering Iran, and additional restrictions apply to some visitors.

Visa on Arrival: Visa on arrival is available for nationals of these countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Georgia, Malaysia, Oman, and Syria. Note that travelers from these countries still need to get their visas pre-approved before they arrived in Iran; they won’t be able to obtain a visa upon arrival at an Iran airport.

E-visa: Nationals of over 100 countries, including the US and UK, can apply for an Iranian e-visa online. Obtaining an e-visa is usually quicker than obtaining a traditional visa and does not require having a sponsor in Iran or appearing in person for an interview at an embassy or consulate. However, depending on your nationality, you may be required to show proof that you have been vaccinated against certain infectious diseases before you can travel with an e-visa.

United Nations Peacekeeping Forces (UNPF): Additional visa exemptions are provided for personnel participating in United Nations Peacekeeping Forces who stay no longer than 15 days and carry out activities under the auspices of UN missions in Iran. Such personnel should enter through Imam Khomeini Airport with valid passports endorsed by the appropriate UN authority on their behalf.

It is important to note that all travelers are subject to meeting specific security requirements upon entry into Iran. They may be asked questions regarding their beliefs or other personal matters as determined by Iranian authorities. These authorities maintain the right to decide who is allowed entry into their country once they arrive at an Iranian port. Planning and familiarizing yourself with all relevant rules and regulations before embarking on your trip so your travel experience goes as smoothly as possible!

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Iran depends on what type of weather and scenery most appeals to you, as travelers also often visit the country for cultural events. Generally, the best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September-November). These times offer pleasant temperatures and little to no rain. However, the weather can be unpredictable during spring, so checking in advance for possible floods or other weather-related issues is essential.

Winter in Iran (December-February) can be unforgiving, with temperatures dropping below 0°C in many provinces. The northern regions of Iran see heavy snowfall during this time, making them suitable for skiing and winter activities. Summer months tend to be hot and dry, with average temperatures ranging between 25°C-35°C, which might not make it a suitable season for visiting.

There are many reasons why travelers come from all around the world to see Iran’s ancient cities, rugged natural landscapes, rustic villages, and monuments. Still, when planning your journey, there’s plenty to consider before setting off – such as if you’re planning on a guided tour or taking a DIY approach, what kind of souvenirs you want to look out for, etcetera– but first and foremost, make sure that you plan your visit according to the best time of year that suits your desires.

Important Documents

Before you travel to Iran, you must ensure that the documents you will need for entry and exit are in order. For example, most visitors to Iran require a valid passport and visa. The passport must be valid for at least six months upon entry, with enough blank pages in the passport booklet. It is also important to apply for your visa well before your trip, as processing times can vary greatly depending on where and when you apply and the number of required documents.

When traveling with children, it’s important to remember that all minors under 18 require parental consent issued by their parents or legal guardians. Therefore, this document should be carried either by the minor or at least one of their parents while traveling in Iran.

Depending on your country of origin and purpose of travel, other travel documents may be required, such as:

Immigration cards (used mainly at immigration checkpoints).
Vaccination certificates (including yellow fever).
International Driving License if you are planning to drive during your stay in Iran.

It’s best to check with authorities before booking any tickets or trips and obtain advice from relevant embassies prior to traveling abroad.

Transportation

When it comes to getting around Iran, various options are available. Air travel is a popular choice, and several domestic airlines operate flights between major cities. Train and bus travel can also be convenient and affordable, with an extensive network of routes connecting the major cities.

We will take a look at the different transportation options available in Iran and the benefits of each:

Airports

Iran’s airports are modern and well-equipped, with several international flights arriving daily. As a result, it makes travel inside the country much easier and more convenient.

The capital city of Tehran has two main airports, namely Mehrabad International Airport (THR) and Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA). The former is the primary airport for domestic flights within Iran, while the latter serves regional international destinations like Dubai, Doha, Kuwait City, Sharjah, and Ankara. Both airports have many facilities, from duty-free shopping to restaurants and lounges.

Aside from Tehran’s main airports, there are several others located in various Iranian cities, such as Isfahan (IFN), Shiraz (SYZ), and Tabriz (TBZ). Most major airlines fly to these cities as well as to most other cities in Iran. In addition, it may be possible to find direct flights from outside Iran directly into some of these second-tier cities, depending on the season.

In addition to commercial airlines, several domestic budget airlines operate within Iran, which allows travelers to explore more remote areas than they normally could reach with regular commercial trips. Moreover, these flights can often be bought at very economical prices compared with international ones.

Public Transport

Public transport in Iran is one of the most inexpensive and convenient ways to get around the vast and diverse country. Iran has an extensive network of buses, trains, ferries, and taxis that can provide access to cities, towns, villages, and tourist sites.

Bus System: The bus system in Iran is extensive and covers nationwide routes with door-to-door timetables. With local services in many towns as well as intercity services between major cities like Tehran and Esfahan, you’ll find both express coaches and luxury coaches available.

Train System: There are five major train lines run by the national railway company (Raja) with daily services along popular tourist routes encouraging visitors to explore more of Iran than by bus or car alone. Popular train journeys include night trains from Tehran to Mashhad or Tabriz to Shiraz.

Ferry System: Ferries in Iran provide an alternative way of accessing the country’s many islands on the Caspian Sea coast, such as Qeshm Island, or coastal areas like Bandar Abbas near the Persian Gulf. Several passenger ferries serve much of the coastline, including some routes across inland lakes.

Taxi Services: One of the most affordable forms of transport for short trips around large cities is usually taxi services, either public (government-owned) or private-hire companies which have a budget option for most areas served by airports such as Tehran Mehrabad Airport or Mashhad International Airport in Khorasan Razavi province.

Car Rentals

Car rental is a popular option if you want to travel around Iran. Several companies offer car rentals in large cities and towns, such as Tehran, Shiraz, Mashhad, and Isfahan. However, rental cars are typically not available in smaller towns and villages.

When renting a car in Iran, you should be aware of specific regulations for drivers. For example, the speed limit is generally 40 kilometers per hour (25 mph) on the highway and 30 kilometers per hour (19 mph) on urban roads. Furthermore, international driver’s licenses are not accepted in Iran; all foreign visitors must obtain an Iranian driver’s license from the police station closest to their destination. This process requires obtaining a series of documents and going through various formalities with various authorities, such as the police station or traffic department. Furthermore, it is also essential that you have adequate third-party insurance coverage throughout your trip.

It is important to note that English-speaking customer support services are generally unavailable when renting cars in Iran; they usually provide only Arabic or Farsi services. As such, it may be helpful to arrange a rental before arriving in the country so that you have all the necessary information prior to your journey. Additionally, inspect your vehicle thoroughly before driving off, as some vehicles may have mechanical problems, which can cause issues later on during your journey.

Accommodations

Iran is a beautiful country with various accommodation options to suit different budgets and styles. From luxurious 5-star hotels to quaint Airbnb and hostels, there is something for everyone.

In this guide, we will cover the best accommodation options in Iran, so you can find the perfect place to stay during your visit:

Hotels

When traveling to Iran, one of the first considerations is securing a place to stay in one of the larger cities like Tehran, Isfahan, or Shiraz. Hotels in Iran for travelers range from basic and inexpensive accommodations to a luxurious five-star experience. Some high-end hotel chains in major cities offer extensive facilities, comfortable rooms, and great amenities.

The most common type of hotel you’ll find in Iran is the budget hotel; these are generally family-run, presenting basic and clean but small rooms. Room rates will depend upon your location and what type of hotels you’re looking for. Many small motel-style hotels have room options ranging from single or double occupancy to six personal dormitory-style rooms, much like a hostel.

For luxury accommodations and higher prices, you can find quality five-star hotels in Tehran, such as Parsian Azadi Grand Hotel, Esteghlal Hotel, Espinas Palace Hotel, Intercontinental Hotel, etc. In Isfahan and Shiraz, popular five-star hotels include Abbassi Hotel, Kowsar International Hotel, KermanPars International hotel, etc. Hotels like these typically offer modern amenities such as onsite restaurants and cafes; shopping centers; fitness centers complete with swimming pools; business centers; conference halls; nightclubs; etc., making them quite attractive for business travelers or luxury seekers who enjoy more comfort during their stay in Iran.

Hostels

Hostels are an increasingly popular choice of accommodation for travelers in Iran due to their affordability and convenience. Hostels offer shared dormitory-style rooms, often with private bathrooms and access to kitchen facilities. They are generally situated in large cities or near tourist attractions and offer a unique way to experience local culture.

When selecting a hostel, consider the amenities such as laundry service, internet access, continental breakfast, and even tour packages available at the hostel. In addition, it is essential to check for current promotions or discounts and customer ratings or reviews from other travelers on websites such as TripAdvisor or Hostelworld.

You will also want to make sure that the hostel meets fire/safety regulations, is staffed with an experienced team, and provides clean bed linens and towels that are regularly laundered. Most Iranian hostels also offer daily room cleaning services.

Before booking a hostel in Iran, it is crucial to read through any applicable rules that may apply, such as check-in policies or curfews that might restrict your mobility when visiting specific sites around the city. In addition, be aware of cultural expectations at a given location; adhere to local customs by dressing modestly in public settings while traveling through Iran.

Camping

Camping is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Iran. There are many designated camping areas and various campsite types ranging from remote wilderness-style camping areas to well-equipped campsites in cities and towns.

If you are looking for genuinely wild camping, pristine wildlife reserves, and unspoiled nature, head for the northern regions where nomadic tribes wander with their herds. Here you will find a diverse range of landscapes ranging from high mountain peaks, icy rivers, lush meadows, deserts, and much more. These areas provide excellent camping opportunities and make Iran an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

In most parts of Iran, it is possible to camp for free or at a minimal cost. However, it is best to seek permission from local authorities first since laws concerning access can vary significantly between regions. In addition, toilet facilities vary widely depending on location, so bring your toilet paper with you! It’s also important to check local fire regulations if planning on making a campfire, as these can be strictly enforced in certain regions. Remember that any open flames should be controlled while respecting any rules that may apply to keep the environment safe from wildfires or other risks posed by reckless open flame use.

Food supplies can also be problematic when camping in remote locations, so come prepared with food sources like fruits, grains, nuts, and bottled water, if this is too difficult to find or purify near the campground area.

Attractions

Iran has beautiful landscapes, stunning architecture, and historical relics that should not be missed. While there are countless things to do and see in Iran, some experiences stand out more than the rest. This section will explore some of the most popular attractions in Iran, from its bustling cities to its ancient ruins. Iran has something to offer, no matter what you’re looking for.

Historic Sites

Iran has a vibrant history stretching back to the days of the Persian Empire. Visitors to Iran can explore its wealth of historical sites, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From ancient fortresses and palaces to captivating bazaars and mosques, there’s no shortage of things to explore in this fascinating country.

Here are some of the best places in Iran for those looking to experience its rich history:

Persepolis – This impressive palace was once the ceremonial capital of the mighty Persian Empire, built by King Darius I in 510 BCE. Since its discovery in the 15th century, this grand structure has inspired visitors and showcases several hand-carved reliefs that tell stories from those times.
Naqsh-e Jahan Square – Located in Isfahan and built by Shah Abbas in the 1600s, this spectacular square is home to several awe-inspiring attractions, including Ali Qapu Palace, Imam Mosque, and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque as well as two grand bazaar arcades – Qeysarieh and Tabriz Bazaar. You’ll find yourself surrounded by beautifully tiled domes and towering minarets from all sides, making it an unforgettable stop on any guided tour through Iran.
Golestan Palace – Built during the 18th-century reign of Agha Muhammad Khan Qajar, this illustrious palace served as one of the residences for members Iranianroyal family up until 1925. Today it comprises fourteen different structures with intricate gardens forming a stunning complex called “The Rose Garden” due to its beauty.
Tchehel Sotoun Palce – Built under Shah Abbas II during the late 17th century, this palace is located in Isfahan. It particularly stands out due to its peculiar architecture, which combines Turkish and Iranian styles. The palace contains four main halls decorated with walls adorned with quaint frescoes that narrate scenes from old novels and some paintings depicting Banu Sasan rule. The architecture stands out because it remains intact despite being damaged at least twice in the last two centuries. Tchehel Sotoun also serves the famous “Kebab Pazir” cuisine dish that energizes anyone who wants to try something extraordinary!

Natural Wonders

Iran is a magnificent country with awe-inspiring landscapes and plentiful natural wonders. From the lush, green fields of the Caspian Sea to the scorching deserts of Dasht-e Kavir, Iran’s diverse geography features snow-capped mountains, clear blue lakes, sandstone escarpments, and stunning marshes that often expand up to miles across. The country has numerous areas certified by UNESCO as national parks and reserves, offering people many opportunities to explore this beautiful land. Here are some of Iran’s most remarkable natural attractions:

Valley of Flowers – situated near Ramsar in Mazandaran province and shelters an immense variety of plants from all over the Iranian plateau, including dozens of unique species found nowhere else in the world.
Mount Damavand – standing at 5671 meters (18606 feet) as the highest summit in Iran and perhaps even one of the holiest mountains in Asia— has been praised for its outstanding views by Safavid until now.
Shalamzar Wildlife Refuge – located off Chaharmahal & Bakhtiari Province, this wildlife refuge shelters hundreds of thousands of structures belonging to nearly 40 wild mammal species (i.e., Persian leopard), more than 160 bird species, five amphibians as well as numerous snakes and lizards making it a heaven for nature lovers and specialists alike.
The Mangroves of Talesh & Anzali – covering more than 180000 hectares across Gilan province, these types of wetlands allow many mysterious creatures such as crabs, storks, ducks & flamingoes to thrive while providing entertainment activities like water skiing & sailing besides their unmatched lovely views, especially in Autumn time.
Uraman Takht Village – located southeastern part Zagros mountain range, this majestic village offers one unique ‘Falak-ol-Aflak’ castle, which was constructed during the Sassanian era for watching enemy movements far away, plus additional impressive constructed remains from that long gone era still stand firm today witnessing centuries passing by gracefully!
Minoo Island – Situated off the north coast around Anzali lagoon, traveling toward Minoo island will let visitors enjoy their boat trips among mangroves while enjoying intriguing marine life while breathing fresh air full of captivating scents!

Shopping and Markets

When you visit Iran, you’ll want to take home souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones, and the best way to do this is to immerse yourself in the vibrant markets and shopping areas of the cities. From buying carpets with intricate designs to experiencing handicrafts made of metal, wood, and ceramics, each purchase you make will tell a unique story.

There are plenty of places in Iran where you can find quality goods at competitive prices, so here are some of the best spots for shopping around important cities:

Tehran: Bazaar-e-Boghan, Grand Bazaar.
Esfahan: Qeisarieh Bazaar, Naqsh-e Jahan Square Souvenir Shops.
Shiraz: Vakil Bazaar, Saray Moshir.
Yazd: Bohlooli Complex Shop, Tourism Knickknacks Shop.

Also, don’t forget to sample some local snacks like kuku (an omelet), ghotab (a kind of crisp waffle stuffed with walnuts), lavash (a flatbread made from wheat or barley flour), or a slice of pashmak (Iranian candy floss). Whatever your ultimate purchase may be – from traditional clothing items such as long chadors or short scarves, manteaus (overcoating), or glassware and decorative silver jewelry – there are plenty of options available!

Safety

When traveling to Iran, safety is a top priority for many tourists. Traveling to a new country can often be daunting, so knowing what to expect regarding safety can be reassuring. In addition, knowing that you are traveling in a safe and secure environment can help you enjoy your trip.

This section will cover the safety aspects of traveling to Iran, from general safety tips to crime statistics:

Local Laws and Customs

When you travel to Iran, it’s important to familiarize yourself with local laws and customs. Iran doesn’t share the same legal system as other western countries, so it’s essential to be aware of potential incidents that could land you in trouble.

It’s essential for tourists traveling to Iran to respect the laws of the Islamic Republic. Remember that the country is still largely governed by Sharia law, and cultural norms can be pretty different than those in a western country. Breaking local laws can lead to fines, imprisonment, or worse. Also, as a foreigner, you must abide by Iranian customs.

If you plan on traveling or living in Iran, here are some things you should be mindful of during your visit:

Greeting behavior, such as shaking hands with the opposite gender, is considered inappropriate and offensive; instead, friendly nods or salutations are appropriate when conversing with strangers of the opposite gender.
Although alcohol consumption is banned in most parts of Iran outside tourist areas, it is strictly forbidden for citizens – foreigners should heed this restriction and avoid involvement.
Footwear must be removed before entering any religious site, including mosques and shrines; always ensure that clothing for both men and women covers shoulders, chest, and legs when visiting these sites out of respect for religious practices.
Public displays of affection between members of the opposite sex are not acceptable behavior in Iranian society – this includes kissing and hand-holding; even couples who have been married for years refrain from physically expressing their affection in public spaces.
The Islamic headscarf (hijab) is mandatory in certain areas throughout cities like Tehran – women should cover their hair regardless if they are inside or outside so as not to offend anyone or risk confrontation with authorities enforcing dress code regulations.
Photographing sensitive installations such as military sites, government buildings, or public monuments should always be avoided unless express permission has been granted; taking pictures of people without their consent can result in harsh punishments.

Health and Sanitation

While Iran is generally a safe destination for travelers, taking some sensible precautions and being mindful of the local customs and laws will help ensure you have a safe, healthy, and enjoyable trip.

Healthcare services vary in quality in Iran – when traveling, it is advisable to take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover any possible medical costs. In the case of illness or injury while traveling in Iran, it is possible to receive medical treatment at hospitals or clinics. However, visitors should note that most public healthcare facilities do not accept foreign travelers’ insurance policies, so they would need to settle their bills immediately upon discharge.

Sanitation: The sanitation standards throughout Iran vary greatly depending on where you are traveling within the country – when considering where to stay and eat while visiting, consider how well the establishments are maintained and cleaned. While tap water may be safe for drinking in some places within Tehran and other cities, it is advised that you only consume bottled water outside these major hubs. Similarly, more rural areas may have less stringent sewage treatment methods than those found in larger urban centers – caution should be exercised when handling food outside well-known hotels as contamination can occur with increased frequency.

Travel Insurance

It may be tempting to forego buying travel insurance when traveling to Iran, but it is something we strongly recommend. Iran has a well-developed health system with many good hospitals. However, medical treatments can be expensive. Therefore, travel insurance covering your medical costs and other emergencies, such as lost or stolen luggage, is critical for a safe journey.

When selecting a plan, ensure the coverage includes medical evacuation in case the needed treatment is unavailable in the country. Other factors to consider when purchasing travel insurance are whether the policy covers repatriation of remains (in case of death), roadside assistance, and legal advice (in case of dispute or wrongfully being detained). In some cases, plans may offer reimbursement for trip cancellations due to work-related responsibilities or family emergencies as long as these are explicitly documented. Make sure you carefully read all the details in your plan before purchasing it.