Iran
Historic cities, bazaars, and deserts with Persian architecture; a cultural trip that rewards planning and respect for local rules.
Quick Facts
- Capital
- Tehran
- Language
- Persian (Farsi)
- Azerbaijani, Kurdish, Arabic (by region)
- Currency
- Iranian rial (IRR)
- Best time to visit
- Spring and autumn are usually best; summers can be very hot in many regions and winters are cold in higher areas.
- Budget per day
- $35 - $120 per day
- Climate
- Highly varied: hot deserts, cold mountains, and temperate regions. Clear seasons and big day-night temperature swings.
- Connectivity
- medium
- SIMs are available at airports and in cities; passport registration is common. Connectivity and access to online services may be restricted.
- Electricity
- Types C and F (220 V)
- Local transport
- good
- Card usage
- limited
- Tipping
- optional
🗺️ Introduction
Iran is a major cultural destination with deep Persian heritage. Many itineraries focus on historic cities, bazaars, mosques, gardens, and monumental architecture—often centered around Isfahan, Shiraz, and Yazd.
It also benefits from careful planning. Dress codes and cultural rules are important, and payments/connectivity may work differently than you expect.
🛡️ General safety
Safety conditions can change. Research thoroughly and follow up-to-date official advisories.
Avoid demonstrations, keep a discreet profile, and be cautious with photography around official sites.
Tip: keep a low profile and check official advisories before and during your trip.
📝 Common entry requirements
Entry requirements vary by nationality and may involve visas or e‑visas. Confirm well in advance and keep your bookings and itinerary organized.
Tip: confirm visa and entry rules early—this is not a destination for last-minute paperwork.
🏥 Basic health considerations
Healthcare is stronger in major cities than in rural areas. Travel insurance is recommended.
Weather can be extreme by region; pack layers and use sun protection.
Tip: pack layers and sunscreen—Iran has big temperature contrasts.
🚌 Getting around the country
Iran has extensive intercity buses and some train routes. Taxis are common in cities.
Plan your payments and reservations carefully, and build buffer time for travel days.
Tip: plan cash needs and reservations carefully—card usage can be limited.
🤵 Culture and etiquette
Dress modestly and follow local norms, especially in religious sites. Keep conversations away from sensitive topics.
Hospitality is often warm; accept invitations politely and ask before photographing people.
Tip: pack suitable clothing for religious visits and ask if you’re unsure.
🍛 Typical food
Iranian cuisine is aromatic and varied: rice, stews, herbs, nuts, and tea culture.
| Dish | Description | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Chelo kebab | Rice with kebab, a classic staple. | Classic/Comfort |
| Ghormeh sabzi | Herb stew with meat. | Traditional/Home-style |
| Fesenjan | Walnut and pomegranate sauce dish. | Traditional/Special |
| Ash | Thick, nourishing soups. | Soup/Comfort |
| Tea | A daily drink in homes and bazaars. | Drink/Traditional |
Tip: try a home-style stew like ghormeh sabzi for flavors beyond kebab.
🏔️ Areas and places to visit
Isfahan, Shiraz (plus Persepolis), and Yazd are the classic cultural route. Tehran is useful for museums and as a main entry point.
Tip: you can’t miss Isfahan, the country’s most iconic stop.
🗣️ Basic vocabulary
- Salâm (سلام): Hello
- Merci (مرسی): Thank you
- Lotfan (لطفاً): Please
- Bebakhshid (ببخشید): Sorry
- Chand ast? (چند است؟): How much is it?
- Man nemifahmam (من نمی فهمم): I don’t understand
- Dastshuyi kojâst? (دستشویی کجاست؟): Where is the bathroom?
✈️ Best season to travel
Spring and autumn are usually the most comfortable for city walking and cultural visits.
| Season | Months | Weather | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mar–May | Mild, blooms | Medium |
| Summer | Jun–Aug | Hot and dry | High |
| Autumn | Sep–Oct | Temperate and clear | Medium |
| Winter | Nov–Feb | Cold, snow at altitude | Low |