Iran Travel Guide - Fotros Travel

TEHRAN
HAMADAN
KASHAN
QOM
MORE TO EXPLORE
SHIRAZ
KERMANSHAH
AHVAZ
KISH
MORE TO EXPLORE
ISFAHAN
MASHHAD
YAZD
NORTHERN IRAN
7-DAY TOUR
PASARGADAE
TABRIZ
KERMAN
QESHM
MORE TO EXPLORE
6
24
14
30
36
9-DAY TOUR
46
8
26
16
32
37
10
28
18
32
38
12
30
20
34
40
9-DAY TOUR 16-DAY TOUR15-DAY TOUR
41 42 44
WHY TO TRAVEL TO IRAN ............................... 3
IRAN TIMELINE ................................................. 4
IRAN CITIES ....................................................... 5
WORLD HERITAGE SITES IN IRAN ...................................... 22
IRAN INFO ........................................................... 48
CONTENTS

3
WHY TO TRAVEL TO IRAN
You will find perfect reasons for traveling to warm and gener-
ous Iran:
In Iran you will be able to discover at leisure its great museums
that bring together the wonders of heritage accumulated during
over 7000 years of history and civilization. Ancient and modern
country at once, alive and warm, Iran is open to all; lovers of
nature or history, sports or contemplative, archaeologists or
poets, Iran can be for each a fragrance of history and poetry,
a secret garden and the wonder of an inexhaustible discovery.
In Iran, a vast country of four seasons, you will find different
types of climate and all kinds of landscapes; sand dunes, salt
lakes, or desert bushes that are all beautiful.
Iran with several geographical aspects spreads wide from
north to south and east to west, famous for its two major moun-
tain ranges (Zagros and Alborz), desert land in the center and
three major seas: The Caspian Sea, The Gulf of Oman and
The Persian Gulf.
AN INVITATION TO TRAVEL,
TRAVELING TO THE LAND OF PERSIA
Fotros Tourism Company carries significant responsibility to
shape tourists’ expectations, attitudes, and experiences and
will also provide information that can educate tourists regard-
ing the region they plan to visit.
THOSE WITHADVENTUROUS
SPRITARE IN LUCK
Fotros Tourism Company as a tour operator, as well as clas-
sic tours, offers a potential for kinds of Adventurous Tourism,
among curious and adventurous people who want to discov-
er the beauties of Iran by cycling through Iran, experiencing
nomadic life, crossing the deserts, climbing the mountains
or skiing in one of the highest lift points of 3600m in Alborz
Mountains. If you are interested in adding shot of happiness to
your trip, let us organize a tour through pristine sceneries and
breathtaking wildlife and landscapes of Iran.
THE KEY THEME OF OUR ROLE
THROUGH THE POLICY
Fotros role in developing tourism in Iran is not only a form of
economic development with cultural and literary resources at
its foundations, but a form of development, a means by which
any individual and all societies and nations would be able to
gain one another’s history, values, heritages and cultural di-
versities.

4
Nia-Elamite
3200-2700 BC
Elam
2700-539 BCE
Manaiahs
850-616 BCE
Med.
678-550 BC
Scythians
652-625 BCE
Achaemenid
550-330 BCE
Parthian
247 BCE -224 AD
Sassanian
224-651AD
Selukian
312-63 BC
Caliphate
651-661
Umayyad
661-750
Abbasid Caliphate
750-1258
ANCIENT TIMES IMPERIAL MIDDLE AGES
IRANTIMELINE

5
Taherian 821-873
Ziyaran 928-1043
Safari 867-1002
Al Boyah 934-1055
Samanians 875-999
Ghaznavids
963-1186
Ilkhanan
1256-1335
Seljuks
1037-1194
Choupaniyan 1335-1357
Mozaffarian 1335-1393
Jailaire 1336-1432
Sarbedaran 1337-1376
Khwarazmshahian
1077-1231
Timurid 1370-1405
Qaraqoyunlu 1406-1468
Timurian 1405-1507
Aghouyunlu 1468-1508
Marashiyan 1359-1582
Hootkian
1709-1738
Safavid
1501-1721
Afsharian 1738-1750
Zandian 1750-1794
Afsharian 1750-1796
Qajars
1796-1925
Pahlavi dynasty
1925-1979
IR
1979-today
EARLY
CONTEMPORARY CONTEMPORARY
IRANCITIES

6
TEHRAN(CAPITAL OF IRAN)
Capital of TEHRAN Province
Area: 730 km²
Elevation: 1,189 m
Population: 8,693,706
Nature Bridge

7
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
GOLESTAN PALACE
This palace was constructed under the command of Shah Abbas I as the temporary
residence of the royal family in Tehran. After some 200 years, Agha Mohammad Khan
reconstructed the palace and chose it as the principal residence of the King. The
Golestan Palace is inscribed on the list of World Heritage Sites of Iran by UNESCO.
SA’AD ABAD COMPLEX
This complex contains several palaces, museums and a 180-hectar jungle. Some of
the palaces were summer residences of the Qajar Kings and the other were construct-
ed during the Pahlavi Dynasty, each belonging to one of the royal family members.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF IRAN
This complex consists of two museums, The National Museum of Iran and The Muse-
um of Islamic Era. The brick building of the Museum of Ancient Iran is the right place to
introduce Iran’s rich history while the Museum of Islamic Era presents many exquisite
items back to different Islamic periods in Iran. A striking frieze of glazed tiles from the
Apadana Palace, A Persepolitan mastiff statue, The statue of a Parthian nobleman,
and numerous priceless figurines, statues, vessels and plates belong belonging to
different Paleolithic to Qajar periods are displayed in this complex.
TEHRAN
Brief Introduction
Before the reign of Shah Tahmasp I (1514-1576), the second king of The Safavid
Dynasty, Tehran was a small village near the city of Rey. Shah Tahmasp would travel
to Rey to visit his ancestor’s shrine (Imamazadeh Hamzeh) and spend some days in
the gardens of Tehran; the result of these frequent visits was the growth of Tehran to
a major city. In 1766 Agha Mohammad Khan (1742-1797) moved the capital to Tehran
and made Tehran the center of power in Iran.
Golestan Palace
Milad TowerSa’ad Abad Complex
National Jewelry Museum
THE NATIONAL JEWELRY MUSEUM
Inside the Central Bank of Iran, in the capital city of
Tehran, there is a priceless treasury of the world’s
most precious jewelry collection. The pink colored
diamond of Darya-ye-Noor (182 Carats), Takhte
Tavous or the “Peacock Throne” which is com-
prised of twelve different pieces decorated with
26,733 pieces of jewels, the Noor-ul-Ain as one
of the largest pink diamonds in the world, and the
gemmed and enameled Naderi Throne belonging
to Qajar era are only some pieces of noble jewel-
ries housed in this museum.
MILAD TOWER (TEHRAN TOWER)
Constructed in 2009, this 435-metere-high tower is
the 6th in the world by height.
TABIAT BRIDGE
This 270-metre bridge connects Taleghani Park
and Ab-o-Atash Park by spanning Modarres Ex-
pressway, one of the main highways in northern
Tehran.
GRAND BAZAAR OF TEHRAN
The Grand Bazaar is an old historical bazaar in
Tehran. It is split into several corridors over 10
kilometers in length, each specialized in different
types of goods.

8
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
ERAM BOTANICAL GARDEN
Covering an area of more than 30,000 m2
, Eram Garden is home to different types of
plants from all around the world and is worth visiting due to its richness of unique ar-
chitectural designs and gardening skills. The garden itself was built during The Seljuk
Dynasty (1037-1194), but later Naser al-Din Shah Qajar (1831- 1896) had the main
existing construction built in the middle of the garden. Eram Garden is among the
Persian Gardens inscribed on the list of World Heritage Sites of Iran by UNESCO.
NARENJESTAN QAVAM OR QAVAM HOUSE
«Narenj» in Farsi means «bitter orange» and «Narenjestan» means the garden of
narenj. This place was the residence of Qavam, the governor of Fars Province.
THE MAUSOLEUM OF HAFEZ
Hafez was a famous Persian lyric poet living in the 14th century. The poems of Hafez
are well respected and known and every year, many people travel to Shiraz to visit
his tomb.
THE MAUSOLEUM OF SA’ADI
Sa’adi Shirazi was another major Persian poet who lived in the 13th century. His po-
ems are the inseparable parts of the Islamic-Iranian culture.
THE HOLLY SHRINE OF SHAH CHERAGH
Shah Cheragh is the brother of Imam Reza (as), the eighth Shia Imam, whose shrine
with mesmerizing mirror works is located in city of Shiraz.
NASIR OL MOLK MOSQUE
Nasir ol Molk also called Pink Mosque is one of the most eye-catching mosques in
Iran, constructed in the 1920s. When the sunlight passes through the colorful windows,
the reflection of the light on the floor of the mosque creates beautiful sight.
VAKIL COMPLEX
Mohammad Karim Khan Zand was the founder of the Zand Dynasty,
which ruled over Iran from 1751 to 1779. Karim Khan chose Shiraz as
his capital city and ordered the construction of several architectural
projects there including “The Vakil Complex”. Today, this complex
contains a citadel, a mosque, a bazaar, a public bath, a museum
(in which Karim Khan is buried), etc.
SHIRAZ
Brief Introduction
More than anything, Shiraz owes its fame to Persepolis, the ancient capital of the
Achaemenid Empire, but that is not all. Shiraz is the city of gardens and poets.
Unique gardens, beautiful mosques and, of course, the tombs of great Persian poets,
Hafez and Sa’adi, are what add to the wonders of Shiraz.
Nasir ol Molk Mosque

9
SHIRAZ
Capital of FARS Province
Area: 240 km2
Elevation: 1,500 m (5,200 ft)
Mausoleum of HafezVakil Bazaar
Eram Garden

10
Naghshe Rustam
Persepolis The Tomb of Cyrus the Great

11
PERSEPOLIS
Persepolis or Takht-e Jamshid (the Throne of Jamshid) was the ceremonial capital of the
Achaemenid Empire. It was founded by Darius I at the foot of Kuh-e Rahmat (Mountain
of Mercy) in south-western Iran, 518 BC. It is located about 50 km northeast of city of
Shiraz in Fars province. Persepolis has always been a unique archaeological site due to
the significance and the quality of its ruins. The palace complex in Persepolis was inspired
by Mesopotamian models and raised on an immense terrace where a series of architec-
turally stunning palatial buildings were erected. The Apadana Palace of Persepolis and
the Throne Hall with one hundred columns, also called “The Hundred-Column Hall” are
among them.
Persepolis is a unique example in all fields of architecture, urban planning, construction
technology, and art in ancient Persia which represent one of the most ancient civilization
in the world. It was mainly designed as the outstanding center of receptions and festivals
of the kings and their empire, but, it was later the seat of government of the Achaemenid
Empire. UNESCO declared the ruins of Persepolis a World Heritage Site in 1979.
The location, setting, materials and design in archeological ruins of Persepolis are all
authentic and antique. Even the restoration works have respected this element well with
an excellent coordination of modern technology and authenticity.
NAGHSHE RUSTAM
& NAGHSHE RAJAB
About 12 km northwest of Persepolis, there in an ancient Necropolis called Naghshe
Rustam which is the place for Ancient Tombs of Powerful Persian Kings dating back to the
first millennium BC. In this site, there are four large tombs cut high into a cliff overlooking
a plain encircled by mountains. The tombs of Darius the Great, Xerxes 1st
, Arta-xerxes1st
,
and Darius 2nd
are here. There is also a Zoroastrian fire temple called “The Cube of Zo-
roaster”. Naghshe Rajab lies less than a kilometer away from Naghshe Rustam and the
site for four limestone rock face inscriptions. Both sites are part of the Marvdasht cultural
complex and the tentative candidates for UNESCO World Heritage status.
The Cube of Zoroaste Persepolis
PASARGADAE
Pasargadae is located about 40 km northeast
of Shiraz (140 km away from Shiraz). It was the
earliest capital of the Achaemenid Empire. The
city was created by Cyrus the Great, the founder
of Achaemenid Empire and the first Persian Em-
pire. Pasargadae covers an area of 160-Ha and
represents some of the earliest manifestations of
Persian art and architecture. This sites includes a
structure widely believed to be the Tomb of Cyrus,
the fortress of Tall-e Takht, and the remains of two
royal palaces and gardens. The “Four Gardens”
type of Pasargadae represents the earliest known
example of the Persian Chahar Bagh (Four Gar-
dens) and became a prototype for Western Asian
architecture and design.
The most important monument in Pasargadae is
the tomb of Cyrus the Great which has similar
design to Mesopotamian ziggurats. In 2004, UN-
ESCO inscribed Pasargadae in its World Heritage
List.

12
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
NAGHSH-E JAHAN SQUARE
(INTEGRATION OF POLITICS, ECONOMY & RELIGION)
As a UNESCO›s World Heritage Site, Naghshe Jahan Square or Imam
Square is one of the most remarkable attractions of Iran and one of the most
important historical sites in the world. On each side of this square there is
an eye-catching structure; Ali Qapu Palace (West), Imam Mosque (South),
Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque (East) and Qeysarie Bazaar (North).
ALI QAPU PALACE
Ali Qapu Palace is a 48-meter-high building in six floors, each accessible by
a difficult spiral staircase. The last floor of this palace is called the Music Hall
because of deep circular niches in the walls. Ali Qapu is rich in naturalistic
wall paintings and elements such as floral, animal, and bird motifs are seen
abundantly.
IMAM MOSQUE
Imam mosque, known as Shah Mosque in the past, is a magnificent mas-
terpiece of Persian architecture in the Islamic era. The mosque has iconic
blue-tiled mosaics in a full palette of seven colors and was built by Safavids
to express themselves with their numerous architectural techniques.
VANK CATHEDRAL
The Church of the Saintly Sisters is a cathedral located in the New Julfa dis-
trict (Armenian district) of Isfahan. In the Armenian language, Vank means
“monastery”. The inner wall and the roof of the cathedral are covered with
fine frescos and gilded carvings and mesmerizing tile works. The architec-
ture of the building is a mixture of the 17th
-century Safavid style with high
arches and an Islamic-style dome. The ceiling above the entrance is painted
with delicate floral motifs in the style of Persian miniature.
CHEHEL SOTOUN PALACE
Chehel Sotoun (forty columns) Palace was constructed in the middle of a
garden in the reign of Shah Abbas I and finished by Shah Abbas II. The pur-
pose behind its construction was to have a mansion for Shah›s receptions.
The entrance pavilion of this palace is supported by twenty slender wooden
columns and their reflection in the long pool before the mansion makes them
appear like forty. Another reason to use the number forty for naming the
palace is the importance of this number in Farsi literature.
JAMA MOSQUE OF ISFAHAN
The congregational mosque of Isfahan is the result of years of construction,
reconstruction, additions and renovations which carried out by the great
Islamic empires of Persia from the 8th through the 20th centuries. This ac-
counts for how the mosque illustrates a condensed history of Iranian archi-
tecture. The mosque is located in the center of the old city and the Grand
Bazaar of Isfahan is adjacent to it. Jama Mosque of Isfahan was registered
as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012.
HISTORICAL BRIDGES OF ISFAHAN
Shahrestan Bridge is the oldest bridge on Zsyandeh Rood dating back to the
Sasanian era with pre-Islamic architecture. Khaju Bridge is the finest bridge
of Isfahan built by a Safavid king around 1650 on the foundation of an older
bridge. It has 23 arches and made of bricks and stones. Sio se pol is the
longest bridge on the Zayandeh Rood, with a total length of 297.76 metres,
and was built during the years 1599 to 1602. It consists of two superimposed
rows of 33 arches.
ISFAHAN
Brief Introduction
From 1050 to 1722, particularly in the 16th and 17th centuries, Isfahan was
in its most glorious time while Safavid dynasty ruled over Iran and chose
this city as the capital of Persia for the second time in its history. Isfahan
is a multi-ethnical city where Muslims, Jews and Christians live togeth-
er in peace. The city is stunning for numerous monuments representing
Persian–Islamic architecture. Isfahan is the city of magnificent mosques
and minarets, amazing bridges, splendid palaces, rich bazaars and pic-
turesque gardens.
Vank Cathedral
Chehel Sotoun Palace
siyo se pol
Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque
Jama Mosque of Isfahan

13
ISFAHAN
Capital of ISFAHAN Province
Area: 551 km²
Elevation: 1590 m
Sheikh Lotfollah MosqueAli Qapu
Ali Qapu

14
Ameri House
KASHAN
ISFAHAN Province
Area: 87 km²
Elevation: 950 m
Population: 304,487

15
TOURIST ATTRACTION
FIN GARDEN
Fin Garden is a unique combination of natural and man-made elements. The fasci-
nating gardening method, the complicated irrigation system, and the beautiful stained
glass windows are only parts of beauties of the this internationally known garden in
the heart of the central arid lands of Iran. Fin garden was inscribed on the list of
World Heritage Sites of Iran by UNESCO in 2012 as one of the nine Persian Gardens
bestowed the same title.
AGHA BOZORG MOSQUE AND SCHOOL
This beautiful historical mosque with its sunken courtyard is a fine example of Islam-
ic architecture in Kashan. This mosque was constructed for praying, teaching and
preaching in the late 18th
century. The selection of tile, the precise and symmetric
architecture, and the lighting give this complex a surreal atmosphere pleasant to look
at for long hours.
KASHAN
Brief Introduction
Kashan is one of the most alluring destinations of Iran as it offers numerous historical
houses and structures with fascinating architecture such as the beautiful Fin Garden,
the historical bazaar of Kashan. Kashan is internationally famous for manufacturing
carpets, silk and other textiles. Years ago, Kashan was one significant center of pot-
tery and tiles and even the name “Kashan” is derived from “Kashi” that means tile in
Farsi language.
Bazaar of Kashan
Borujerdi HouseFin Garden
Vase,Teppe Sialk
HISTORICAL HOUSES OF KASHAN
City of Kashan is famous for its numerous histor-
ical houses representing Islamic Iranian architec-
ture. The Āmeri House, the Manuchehri House, the
Borujerdi House, the Tabatabaei House, and the
Abbasi House are the most visited historical houses
in Kashan. Today, some of these places serve as
traditional hotels which welcome tourists from all
around the world.
ABYANEH
The ancient village of Abyaneh is an old village in
Iran (dating back to 1500 years ago). This village is
known as the Red Village. The idea behind this title
is the red clay used in almost all buildings of this
village. Abyaneh is a village of living traditions and
the traditional clothing of villagers is one of the first
things draws visitors’ attention.
MARANJAB DESERT
Maranjab Desert is a top tourist attraction and a
mesmerizing desert near the city of Kashan. There
are lots of adventurous activities like trekking up the
golden sand dunes, visiting salt polygons of “Namak
Lake”, camel riding, night gathering around fire and
watching the stunning starry sky in desert. There is
an ancient Caravansary in Maranjab desert dates
back to Safavid dynasty.

16
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
THE ANCIENT CITY OF SUSA
Susa is known as one of the oldest cities on the planet with contin-
uous inhabitancy and its history goes back to the Elamite, Parsian
and Parthian empires. Susa has one of the most fertile earth in the
region because of the rivers of Karkheh and Dez. The remaining of
the ancient Susa still exists in the modern Iranian town of Shush.
The tomb of Daniel which is the traditional burial place of the bibli-
cal prophet is located in Susa and is a respected attraction among
Iranian Muslims and Jewish.
TCHOGHA ZANBIL
Tchogha Zanbil is one of the few existent ziggurats, dating back to
the Elamites era. It is composed of ruined palaces and temples.
This ziggurat is the largest of its kind in Iran and It was inscribed
on the list of World Heritage Sites of Iran by UNESCO in 1979.
Tchogha Zanbil is 130 km away from the city of Ahvaz, in Khuz-
estan province of Iran.
THE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM OF SHUSHTAR
Around one hour and half away from the city of Ahwaz, there is
a complex irrigation system with water mills, dams, tunnels, and
canals. It is inscribed on the list of World Heritage Sites of Iran by
UNESCO. The history of Shushtar Hydraulic System dates back to
the time of the Achaemenian king, Darius the Great. The function
of this system was to supply water for local people both in peace
and war time.
A H V A Z
Brief Introduction
Ahvaz has a long history dating back to the Achaemenid period. The long beautiful
Karun River is a remarkable natural landscape of this region with its gift of life and
fertility. Ahvaz is known for its ethnic diversity as it is home to different Iranian ethnic
groups as Persians, Lurs, Arabs, and Jews.
Tomb of Daniel

17
AHVAZ
Capital of KHUZESTAN Province
Area: 528 km2
Elevation: 16 m
Shush CastleTchogha Zanbil
The Hydraulic System of Shushtar

18
Jabalieh Dome
KERMAN
Capital of Kerman Province
Area: 185 km²
Elevation: 1,755 m
Population: 537,718

19
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
GANJALI KHAN COMPLEX
In the old area of the city of Kerman, there is an ancient complex, covering an area of
11000 square meters, assembled of a school, a square, a caravanserai, a bathhouse,
a water reservoir, a mint, a mosque and a bazaar. Each part of this complex has its own
exquisite artistic and architectural features.
BAM CITADEL
Bam and its Cultural Landscape was inscribed on the list of World Heritage Sites of
Iran by UNESCO in 2004. This citadel was the largest adobe structure in the world
before it was mostly destroyed by an earthquake (6.6 magnitude) in 2003. Bam is now
rebuilt with the same appearance of the beautiful adobe buildings and walls.
JABALIEH DOME
Jabalieh is a rock dome in Kerman which is constructed of stones cut in various sizes
and attached together with
an especial mortar made
out of camel milk. The ar-
chitecture of this octagonal
structure goes back to the
Sassanid period.
KERMAN
Brief Introduction
Kerman was founded in the Sasanian era, in the 3rd
century AD, and became the
capital city of Iranian dynasties for several times. It is margined with the fabulous
Lut Desert which is inscribed on the list of World Heritage Sites of Iran by UNESCO
as a natural phenomenon. Lut is one of the hottest places on earth and is famous
worldwide for its spectacular landforms called “Keluts” or “Yardangs”. These beautiful
structures are formed as a result of aeolian processes or simply, wind erosion in
the course of time and look like eerie cities with mysterious skyscrapers made by
extraterrestrial creatures.
Bam Citadel
Ganjali Khan ComplexShah Nematollah Vali Shrine
Mahan Garden

20
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
DOWLAT ABAD GARDEN
This garden is home to the tallest wind catcher of Iran and embraces all the elements
of a delightful garden with its beautiful trees, gardening elements, unique irrigation
method, and the architecturally amazing building in its center.
Dowlat Abad Garden is inscribed as a World Heritage Site under
the title of “The Persian Garden”,
AMIR CHAKHMAQ COMPLEX
In Amir Chakhmaq square in Yazd, there is a prominent structure
with notable carved alcoves. This architectural masterpiece is com-
posed of a mosque, a caravanserai, a bathhouse, a cold water well,
and a confectionery. On the opposite side of this complex, the Yazd
Water Museum is located.
JAMA MOSQUE OF YAZD
The congregational mosque of Yazd has the highest minarets of
Iran, but that’s not their only distinguishing feature; In Islamic ar-
chitecture, the right place for the minarets is in either sides of the
dome, but the high minarets of Jame mosque of Yazd (measuring
52 meters high) are apart from the dome which proves how the
mosque has been constructed in the course of time.
THE ZOROASTRIANS FIRE TEMPLE
A fire temple in Zoroastrianism is the place of worship for Zoroas-
trians. The Zoroastrian Fire Temple of Yazd, also called Bahram
Ateshkadeh, was built in 1934 and is Iran’s only temple housing
Atash Bahram (Victorious Fire). Above the entrance, there are
three inscriptions which describe the essence of Zoroastrians
“Good deeds, Good thoughts, Good words”.
TOWERS OF SILENCE
A Dakhma or the tower of silence is a circular, raised structure built
by Zoroastrians for excarnation. This practice has been used tra-
ditionally by Zoroastrians, though it has become less common in
recent times.
YA Z D
Brief Introduction
The city of Yazd is named after a Sassanid ruler of Persia, Yazdegerd I. It was the
center of Zoroastrians in Sasanian Empire and still, there are quite unique structures
proving this fact such as the fire temples and the Zoroastrians’ funerary towers (Tow-
ers of Silence). Being located among remote deserts has made this city a unique and
beautiful desert city with rich architectural designs and structures. In 2017, Yazd was
inscribed on the list of World Heritage Sites of Iran by UNESCO.
Amir Chakhmaq ComplexAtash Behram
Clock Tower

21
YAZD
Capital of Yazd Province
Elevation: 1,216 m
Population: 529,673
Yazd Wind Catcher Towers of Silence
Dowlat Abad Garden

22
1 1
3
1
1
17
13
1518
Sheikh Safi al-
din Khānegāh
and Shrine
Ensemble in
Ardabil (2010)
12
Armenian
Monastic
Ensembles of
Iran (2008)
1
Shushtar
Historical
Hydraulic Sys-
tem (2009)
13
Bam and its
Cultural
Landscape
(2004)
2
Soltaniyeh
(2005)
14
Bisotun
(2006)
3
Susa
(2015)
15
Cultural
Landscape of
Maymand
(2015)
4
Tabriz Historic
Bazaar Com-
plex
(2010)
16
Golestan
Palace
(2013)
5
Takht-e Soley-
man (2003)
17
Gonbad-e
Qābus
(2012)
6
Tchogha Zanbil
(1979)
18
Masjed-e Jāmé
of Isfahan
(2012)
7
The Persian
Garden
(2011)
19
Naqsh-e Jahan
Square,
Isfahan
(1979)
8
The Persian
Qanat
(2016)
20
Pasargadae
(2004)
9
Lut Desert
(2016)
21
Persepolis
(1979)
10
Historic City of
Yazd (2017)
22
Shahr-i Sokhta
(2014)
11
WORLD HERITAGE SITES IN IRAN
Best time to visit NORTHWESTERN IRAN:
APR / MAY / JUN / JUL / AUG / SEP / OCT
BEST TIME TO VISIT CASPIAN SEA:
MAR / APR / MAY / JUN / SEP / OCT / NOV / DEC
BEST TIME TO VISIT ISFAHAN:
MAR / APR / MAY / JUN / SEP / OCT
BEST TIME TO VISIT SOUTHERN IRAN & SHIRAZ:
JAN / FEB / MAR / APR / MAY / OCT / NOV / DEC
BEST TIME TO VISIT TEHRAN AND ITS REGION:
FEB / MAR / APR / MAY / SEP / OCT / NOV
BEST TIME TO VISIT EASTERN IRAN:
FEB / MAR / APR / MAY / SEP / OCT
BEST TIME TO VISIT CENTRAL IRAN & YAZD:
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24
The Tomb of Avicenna
HAMEDAN
Capital of Hamedan Province
Area: 63 km²
Elevation: 1,850 m
Population: 554,406

25
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
“HEGMATANEH” OR “ECBATANA”
“Place of Gathering” is the literal meaning of this ancient city which was the first
capital city of the first Persian Empires. Alongside with Athens in Greece and Rome in
Italy, Ecbatana is one of the most ancient, yet important, cities in the world.
THE MAUSOLEUM OF AVICENNA:
Ibn-e Sina was a physician, physicist, philosopher, poet, jurist, mathematician, as-
tronomer, alchemist and music theorist. His mausoleum is located in city of Hamadan
and is visited by hundreds tourists from all around the world every year.
ALISADR CAVE:
The world’s largest water cave is located in the north of Hamadan, western Iran. The
only way to visit this cave is sitting in a boat and enjoying the untouched beauty in-
side. Excavations and archeological studies proves the history of the cave dates back
to 12,000 years ago. There is no oxygen in the water of this cave, hence, no living
creature can be found under water.
GANJNAMEH COMPLEX
Ganj Nameh is a historical inscription that commemorates the acts of the Achaemenid
kings, Darius I the Great and its son, Xerxes I. Ganjnameh is situated on the side of
a rocky hill in Alvand Mountains in Hamadan Province.
THE TOMB OF ESTHER AND MORDECHAI
The Tomb of Esther and Mordechai is the most important pilgrimage site for Jews
in Iran. The tomb belongs to a beautiful Jewish woman, the queen of the Persian
king, Esther, who saved Jews from annihilation
by Persian Empire with the help of her cousin,
Mordecai. Every year, on the holiday of Purim,
Iranian Jews make a pilgrimage to this shrine.
HAMADAN
Brief Introduction
Hamadan is known as the city of scientists, ancient history and civilization. One of
the most ancient capital cities of Iran, called “Hegmataneh” or “Ecbatana” is placed in
this city. Located in the foothills of Zagros Mountains, Hamadan is a green mountain-
ous city. It is home to many poets and Iranian scientists and philosophers.
Ganjnameh Complex
Alisadr CaveTomb of Esther and Mordecai

26
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
TAQ BOSTAN
Taq Bostan is a series of large rock reliefs in the heart of the Zagros Mountains in
Kermanshah Province. It is considered as one of the 30 surviving relics from the
Sassanid Empire. The reliefs present a complex of culture, custom and history and
tell many stories from power projection and religious tendencies to game and fighting
scenes and festivities.
BEHISTUN INSCRIPTION
On a limestone cliff at Mount Behistun in western Iran, Kermanshah Province, there
is a multilingual inscription and large rock relief (15×25). It is written in three different
cuneiform script languages (Old Persian, Elamite, and Babylonian). The inscription
describes a sequence of events happened after the deaths of Cyrus the Great and the
rock relief tells a story of conquered people who are lining before Darius I the Great,
the conqueror.
TEKYEH MOAVEN AL-MOLK
This historical place dates back to
Qajar era and is basically a mourn-
ing site for Shia Muslims. The tile
works of this complex are very ex-
clusive and picturing the Islamic era
warriors, the battle of Karbala and
the pictures of Iranian kings such as
Achaemenid kings and also, Perse-
polis. The colors used in art works
of Tekyeh are 100% natural.
KERMANSHAH
Brief Introduction
Kermanshah is the capital of Kermanshah Province in western Iran. The attractive
landscapes, rich culture with unique villages and many element of antiquity in Ker-
manshah makes it one of the cradles of prehistoric cultures in Iran. Literally, Kerman-
shah means “the king of Kerman” and it has taken its name from a Sasanid king who
was called Kermanshah.
Taq Bostan
The Inscription of Taq Bostan

27
Tekyeh Moaven Al-MolkBehistun Inscription
Behistun Inscription
KERMANSHAH
Capital of KERMANSHAH Province
Area: 96 km2
Elevation: 1,350 m
Population: 946,651

28
Tabriz City Hall
TABRIZ
Capital of East Azerbaijan
Province
Area: 324 km²
Elevation: 1,351 m

29
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
TABRIZ HISTORIC BAZAAR
In 2010, Bazaar of Tabriz was inscribed on the list of World Heritage Sites of Iran by
UNESCO as it is the biggest roofed and interconnected bazaar in the world covering
an area of more than 10 hectares. The Carpet Bazaar is the most famous part of this
magnificent historical complex.
KABOUD MOSQUE
Kaboud or Blue Mosque was built in 1465 by the order the daughter of Sultan Jahan-
shah, the most powerful king of Qaraqoyonlu dynasty. Because of the delicacy of tile
works and various calligraphic styles used in the building and especially the azure
TA B R I Z
Brief Introduction
Tabriz is one of the important cities in Iran. In 2015, Tabriz was named the World
Carpet Weaving City by the World Crafts Council. Many major heavy industries can
be found in Tabriz such as automobile factories, refineries, petrochemicals, textiles
and cement production industries. With cold winters and temperate summers, Tabriz
is considered a summer resort. Tabriz has a rich history with numerous historical
buildings, mosques, bridges, houses (serve as museum now) mostly back to Ilkha-
nid, Safavid and Qajar era. The most popular souvenirs from Tabriz are chocolate,
dried nuts, hand-woven rugs and jewelry.
Tabriz Historic Bazaar
Kaboud MosqueEl Golu
mosaic tiles, Blue Mosque is also called “The Turquoise
of Islam”. In 1779, an earthquake damaged the mosque a
lot, but after the reconstructions between 1939 to 1979,
most parts of the mosque were saved.
THE ST. STEPHANOS CATHEDRAL
230 kilometers away from city of Tabriz, in Jolfa dis-
trict, there is an ancient monastery surrounded by high
mountains and beautiful nature. St. Stephanos Cathedral
is the second most important cathedral of Armenians of
Iran after the St. Thaddeus Monastery in west Azerbaijan
province. This Cathedral was inscribed on the list of World
Heritage Sites of Iran by UNESCO in 2007.
KANDOVAN ROCK VILLAGE
In southwest of Tabriz, on the green slopes of mount Sa-
hand, there is a unique historical village with buildings
carved in the heart of the hard rocks. Kandovan is one of
the three rock villages in the world, but the only inhabited
one. The third international reef hotel in the world is locat-
ed in the center of the village with spa equipment.

30
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
IMAM REZA HOLY SHRINE
Imam Reza, the 8th
Imam of Shias, is buried in this place. Every year, millions of pil-
grims visit the holy shrine of Imam Reza in Mashhad.
NADERI GARDEN
The tomb and the museum of Nader Shah are located in
the Naderi Garden in the city of Mashhad.
THE TOMB OF FERDOWSI
Ferdowsi (also spelled Firdausi) was one of the
greatest poets in the history of Iran. He was the
author of Shahnameh, the world’s longest
epic poem written by a single poet, which
contains about 60,000 verses. Firdausi’s
tomb is in the city of Tus, 40 Km from
Mashhad.
MASHHAD
QOM
Brief Introduction
Mashhad is the second most populous and also, the first holy city in Iran. It was
the capital of Iran in the reign of the Afsharid kings (1736–1796). Literally, the word
“Mashhad” means “the place of martyrdom” and it gained this name because the 8th
Shia Imam was martyred and buried in this area. Mashhad was an important transit
city along the Silk Road.
Brief Introduction
Fatima Masumeh was the sister of Imam Reza
whose shrine is located in the city of Qom.
Qom is considered by Shia Muslims to be the
second most sacred city in Iran after Mashhad.
Fatima Masumeh Holy Shrine
The Statue of Nader Shah

31
Imam Reza Holy ShrineImam Reza Holy Shrine
The Tomb of Ferdowsi
QOM
Capital of Qom Province
Area: 123 km2
Elevation: 928 m
MASHHAD
Capital of Khorasan-e Razavi Province
Area: 328 km2
Elevation: 985 m

32
Hara Forests
QESHM
Hormozgan Province
Area: 123 km2
Population: 40,678
KISH
Hormozgan Province
Area: 123 km2
Population: 39,853

33
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
CITY OF HARIREH
Harireh is an old city located on the northern coast of Kish. Constructions from 800
years ago still stand and are open to public to visit.
GREEK SHIP
The Greek Ship is a cargo steamship which beached on the southwest coast of Kish
island in 1966. People can enjoy resting on the coast watching her.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
PORTUGUESE CASTLE
The ruins of this castle are remained in Northeast of Qeshm.
STARS VALLEY
This beautiful valley with its eye-catching stones is located
in Qeshm Island.
HARA FORESTS
Hara Forests are Mangrove Forests in Qeshm.
KISH
QESHM
Brief Introduction
Kish is a beautiful island in the Persian Gulf where thousands of tourists (Iranians and
foreigners) go there on vacation every year. Mesmerizing coasts, Bazaars, shopping
malls, dolphin and bird parks, etc. are among the attractions that make you visit this
island.
Brief Introduction
When Shah Abbas I became the King of Iran, the Portuguese Empire had conquered
some islands and coasts of the Persian Gulf. In 1622, Shah Abbas I succeeded in
defeating The Portuguese Empire in Bandar Abbas, Qeshm and Hormoz Island with
alliance of Britain.
Stars Valley
Hamam Shahre-HarirehThe Greek Ship

34
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
THE ANCIENT VILLAGE OF MASOULEH
Masouleh is an ancient mountainous village in the province of Guilan, in the southern
shore of the Caspian Sea. The unique architecture of buildings is the most amazing
feature of this ancient village. The roofs are generally flat or only slightly inclined and
often serve as footpaths for pedestrians and upper houses. In Masouleh, men are
mostly work in the unique bazaar of Masouleh as shopkeepers or run traditional res-
taurants. Women run their own business making beautiful handicrafts including woven
dolls and slippers.
RURAL HERITAGE MUSEUM OF GUILAN
Guilan Rural Heritage Museum is an open air museum in the heart of the forest nature
of northern Iran. The managers of this place have done their best to show a unique
and faithful picture of northern people lifestyle, homes, works and handicrafts. Around
seven authentic houses from different areas of northern lands have been genuinely
transferred to this park museum to both preserve their rare architecture and display
their uniqueness.
ABBAS ABAD GARDEN
Behshahr is a city in Mazandaran Province in Iran, on the coast of the Caspian Sea.
In 1613, Shah Abbas I made Behshahr an imperial residence and commissioned the
construction of a palace and some gardens. Abbas Abad Garden, in the southeast of
Behshahr and the heart of dense forests, is one the most beautiful gardens of Iran and
a UNESCO-registered World Heritage Site as a Persian Garden.
NAMAK ABROUD TOURIST COMPLEX
Namak Abrud is a village in the central district of Chalus County in Mazandaran Prov-
ince. The Namak Abroud tourist complex is situated 12 kilometers away from the city
of Chalous. The famous Cable Car of Namak Abrud gives tourists a mesmerizing view
of the forested regions from the sea level near the shores of the Caspian Sea and to
the top of the Alborz heights. The rail bobsled of Namak Abrud takes you to the deep of
northern mountainous forests of Iran and gives you a breathtaking experience.
NORTHERN IRAN
Brief Introduction
Located in the Southern Caspian regions, Northern Iran has a pleasant and green
atmosphere most of the year. The dense beautiful forests alongside with nice and
vast sea shores and high mountains are the main natural attractions of this area. The
gastronomy of northern Iran is very popular all over Iran. The diversity and unique
taste of northern foods make them worth tasting more than once. The three provinces
located in this region are Guilan, Mazandaran and Golestan.
Pavilion Historical place in Rasht

35
Rudkhan CastleNamak Abroud Tourist Complex
The Ancient Village of Masouleh

36
Abgineh Museum is The Glassware & Ceram-
ic Museum with a rare collection of clay and
glass works from different eras. The building
itself is very remarkable with its brick works,
plaster works, mirror works and inlaid works.
Gonbad-e Qabus is a city in the province of
Golestan in northern Iran. There is a 52-m
high tower (Gonbad-e Qabus Tower) in this
city is an outstanding and technologically
innovative example of Islamic architecture.
Gonbad-e Qabus was inscribed on the list
of World Heritage Sites of Iran by UNESCO
in 2012. This baked-brick-built tower is over
1000 years old.
The mausoleum of Oljaytu(Soltaniyeh Dome)
was constructed in the years 1302–12 in the
city of Soltaniyeh, the capital of the Ilkhanid
dynasty. This monument is situated in the
province of Zanjan. Soltaniyeh is the world’s
oldest double-shelled and the third largest
dome with its 50m tall dome. Soltaniyeh is
inscribed on the list of World Heritage Sites
by UNESCO.
The Anahita Temple is the name of two ar-
chaeological sites in Iran popularly thought
to have been attributed to the ancient deity
Anahita. The larger and more widely known
is located in Kangāvar in Kermanshah Prov-
ince. The other is located in Bishapur.
Nain Congregational Mosque is one of the
oldest mosques in Iran with a history back to
9th century. Two impressive features of this
mosque are the 700-year-old wood carving
marquetry pulpit built without the use a sin-
gle nail and the single brick-made minaret.
The basement of mosque used to be a prayer
chamber in hot summers and cold winters as
the temperature in there is always moderate
(10 to 15 °C).
Noushijan Tappe is an archeological site in the
west of Iran near the city of Malayer. The com-
plex is comprised of a building in the west of
the Tappe (the first fire temple), a columned
hall (Apadana), a central temple (the second
temple), rooms and storerooms, a tunnel, and
a rampart. The inner space of the main building
is rectangular. The first fire temple in a covered
space was in Noushijan Tappe.(VIII century be-
fore Crist).
About 30 kilometers west of Ardebil, close to
Mount Sabalan, an inactive volcano, and the
popular Alvares Ski Resort, there is the small
city of Sarein. Sarein is very popular for its
mineral water springs which contain Sulphur
with strong healing properties. Between the
periods of May to August, Sarein welcomes
the most tourists from Iran and around the
globe.
Bandar Deylam is a port city next to the Per-
sian Gulf in Bushehr province. The town is
situated in a coastal plain with a warm and
humid climate. There are few historical refer-
ences to Bandar-e Deylam, which is located
near the ruined medieval towns of Sīnīz and
Mahruban. The ancient ruins of Mahruban
are located 10 km from the port.
Soltaniyeh Dome - Zanjan
Jameh Mosque of Nain - Isfahan
Jameh Mosque of Nain - Isfahan
Temple of Anahita - Kermanshah
Bandar Deylam - Bushehr
Gonbad-e Qabus - Gorgan Sarein - Ardabil
The Glassware and Ceramic
Museum of Iran
Noushijan Tappe - Hamadan
36
MORETO
EXPLORE

37
The historical hammam of Ali Gholi Agha was
built in 1713. Today, it serves as a museum
with set of costumed mannequins to show
the purpose of each part of the bathhouse.
The tile and marble works of this hammam
are so admirable.
Rayen citadel is known as the biggest ado-
be structure of Kerman province after Bam
Citadel with all the architectural elements of
a deserted citadel. Rayen is around 500 to
1,000 years old. In spite of the numerous nat-
ural disasters in this area, same as the earth-
quake of 2003 which destructed Bam citadel,
Rayen Citadel is extremely well preserved in
course of time.
City of Mahan is well-known for the tomb
of the great Sufi leader, Shah Ne’emat Ol-
lah-e-Vali, as well as the Shazdeh Garden
(Prince’s Garden). The Garden of Mahan
Prince is a historical Persian garden, 6 km
away from Kerman. The Garden consists of
pools in a terraced fashion and a two-storied
building of which the second floor was used
as living quarters.
Pahlevani and zoorkhāneh rituals is the
name inscribed by UNESCO for varzesh-e
pahlavāni or varzesh-e bāstāni a traditional
system of athletics originally used to train
warriors in Iran and adjacent lands. Outside
Iran, zoor khanehs can be found in Azerbai-
jan, and they were introduced into Iraq in the
mid-19th century.
Silak, in city of Kashan, is one of the his-
torical places after the Jiroft civilization
of Kerman which was found in pre-Achae-
menid period. The Sialk Hill was actually
a ziggurat or temple of ancient people made
of clay and pottery . This historical complex
was not identified by the year 1310.
Rey was one of the capital cities of the Sel-
juq Empire in the 11th century. Ray is richer
than many other ancient cities in the number
of its historical monuments, among which
one might refer to a 500-year-old Safavid-era
bazaar, the 3000-year-old Gebri castle, the
5000-year-old Cheshmeh Ali hill, and the
1000-year-old Bibi Shahr Banoo tomb.
Toghrol Tower is a 12th-century monument
from the Seljuk-era situated in the city of
Rey, on the southern outskirts of Tehran. The
tower itself is said to be the mausoleum for
Seljuk king, who established Rey as a major
administrative center of the Seljuk Dynasty.
At the top of this magnificent tower there are
Kufic inscriptions (early Arabic). The tower is
protected by Iran’s Cultural Heritage Organ-
ization.
Cheshmeh-Ali or Spring of Ali is an ancient
recreational place in the south of Tehran
and north of Rey. The spring is a spot in the
neighborhood of Ebn-e Babooyeh, Toghrol
Tower, and below the Rashkan castle and
next to Rey Castle and Fath Ali shah inscrip-
tion. This place has some typological paral-
lels with the middle layers of Tepe Sialk in
city of Kashan (3000 BC).
Zoor-khaneh
Zoor-khaneh
Shazdeh Garden – Kerman
Rayen Citadel - Kerman Cheshmeh-Ali - Tehran
Hammam-e Ali Gholi Agha – Isfahan Toghrol Tower - Tehran
Tepe Sialk - Kashan Rey - Tehran
37
MORETO
EXPLORE

38
MORETO
EXPLORE
Shahr-e Sukhteh is an archaeological site of
a sizable Bronze Age urban settlement, as-
sociated with the Jiroft culture. Covering an
area of 151 hectares, Shahr-e Sukhteh was
one of the world’s largest cities at the dawn
of the urban era. The city had four stages of
civilization and was burnt down three times
before being abandoned in 1800 BCE. It was
inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage
list in 2014.
The archaeological ensemble called Takht-e
Soleyman (Throne of Solomon) is situated on
a remote plain surrounded by mountains in
northwestern Iran, West Azerbaijan province.
The site has strong symbolic and spiritual
significance related to fire and water and is
located on a volcano crater rim. In 2003, it
was inscribed on the list of World Heritage
Sites of Iran by UNESCO.
Maymand is a self-contained, semi-arid area
at the end of a valley at the southern extrem-
ity of Iran’s central mountains near Shahr-e
Babak city in Kerman Province. The villagers
are semi-nomadic agro-pastoralists. Mey-
mand is believed to be a primary human res-
idence in the Iranian Plateau, dating back to
12,000 years ago. Many of the residents live
in the 350 hand-dug houses amid the rocks,
some of which have been inhabited for as
long as 3,000 years. Meymand is a UNESCO
World Heritage site since 2015.
Firuzabad is located in south of Shiraz. The
town is surrounded by a mud wall and ditch.
The ensemble at Firuzabad comprises of ar-
chaeological sites such as the City of Gur,
the Palace of Ardashir (Atashkadeh), Qal’eh
Dokhtar fortress, bas reliefs from the time of
Ardashir (the founder of the Sassanian dy-
nasty), the Pahlavi inscription of Mehr-Nerse,
and Tangab Bridge. This ensemble embodies
the political, historic, cultural and artistic de-
velopments of the early Sassanian period.
Sheikh Safi al-Din Shrine is the tomb of the
first king of Safavid dynasty and generally, it
was a really important political and religious
center in that era. In 2010 it was inscribed
as a world heritage site by UNESCO. This
complex consists of different parts such as a
mosque, a beautiful porcelain house (a place
for keeping gold, silver and porcelain dish-
es), a school and a few more.
Historical Edifice of Rakhtshooy Khaneh,
which means wash-house, lies at the histori-
cal texture of the Zanjan city and was built in
nearly 20th century. This place was used for
washing clothes by women around the city. It
was constructed by two brothers named Ma-
shad Akbar and Mashadi Esmail. This histor-
ic building is currently being used as Zanjan
anthropological museum.
Cultural Landscape
of Maymand - Kerman
Sheikh Safi al-din Khanegah
Firuzabad
Takht-e-Soleiman
West Azarbaijan
Rakhtshooy Khaneh
Edifice - Zanjan
Shahr-e Sukhteh - Sistan and
Baluchestan Province
38 Sheikh Safi al-din Khanegah
Cultural Landscape
of Maymand - Kerman
Takht-e-Soleiman
West Azarbaijan

39
ITINERARIES
Named after one of the great artists of the
Safavid period, this museum showcases
Iranian art from ancient times and the Safa-
vid-era paintings of Abbasi himself. The col-
lections of this museum belong to a period
from the 2nd millennium BC to the early 20th
century. The displays are set chronologically.
There are many objects exhibited in this mu-
seum such as artifacts made of baked clay,
metal and stone from the pre historic times
to pottery and metal objects, textile and lac-
quer painting, and manuscripts and jewelry
belonging to the Islamic period.
Abbasi Museum - Tehran
Abbasi Museum - Tehran

40
DAY 1: Arrival in TEHRAN. Greetings by
your guide and transfer to your hotel. You
can take a rest before your tour begins. O/N
in Tehran
DAY 2: TEHRAN Discover the history of
the capital city of Iran visiting the National
Museum of Iran, GOLESTAN PALACE,
and the Grand Bazaar of Tehran. Drive to
southern area of Tehran, the old city of Rey
(NEW to the Itinerary) and visit the historical
BORJE TOGHROL and the CHESHMEH-ALI,
two ancient and important places in south of
Tehran. O/N in Tehran
DAY 3:TEHRAN – KASHAN – ISFAHAN
Drive to Isfahan (459 km). En route, explore
the historical city of Kashan visiting the
beautiful FIN GARDEN and the Historical
BOROJERDIS and TABATABAEIS Houses.
Continue the way to Isfahan and visit the his-
torical village of ABYANEH, the oldest village
in Iran, en route. In Isfahan, stroll along the
historical KHAJU Bridge and experience the
nightlife of Iranians. O/N in Isfahan
DAY 4: ISFAHAN Full day city tour in
Isfahan includes the historical NAGH-E-
JAHAN SQUARE , embracing the IMAM
Mosque, the SHEIKH-LOTFOLLAH Mosque,
the ALI-GHAPOO Palace, and The Geisarieh
Bazaar. CHEHEL-SOTOUN Palace, ALI MIN-
ARET, the oldest minaret in Isfahan, ATIQ
CONGREGATIONAL MOSQUE are
more places to visit in Isfahan. The MUSE-
UM OF MUSIC (NEW to the itinerary) with a
pleasant memory of Iranian music is the last
place to visit. O/N in Isfahan
DAY 5: ISFAHAN_ SHIRAZ Drive to Shiraz
(500 Km) and en route, the ancient city of
IZADKHAST (146 Km) (NEW to the Itinerary)
with an ancient citadel back to Sassanid era
awaits to be explored. PASARGADAE ,
the tomb of the Cyrus the great (356 Km) in
the next place to explore on the way to Shi-
raz. O/N in Shiraz
DAY 6: SHIRAZ Visit the beautiful NA-
SIR-OL-MOLK Mosque (Pink Mosque) with
super nice photogenic reflection of sunlight
through its stained glass windows. ERAM
GARDEN is the next place to visit be-
fore heading to the ceremonial capital of the
Achaemenid Empire, PERSEPOLIS , and
then, Necropolis (110 km). Return to Shiraz.
O/N in Shiraz
DAY 7: Departure
End of Tour
C U L T U R A L T O U R
ESSENCE OF ANCIENT PERSIA Days6 NIGHTS &
7
WORLD HERITAGE SITES ARE PRINTED IN BOLD
TEHRAN
KASHAN
ISFAHAN
ABYANEH
SHIRAZ

41
DAY 9: Departure
End of Tour
in Tehran
DAY 5: SHIRAZ-PASARGADAE- YAZD
Drive to YAZD (500 km), a newly regis-
tered city in the World Heritage Site list, and
make a stop in PASARGADAE , the tomb
of the Cyrus the great, en route. Visit the city
of ABARKOOH & a short visit of the historical
AGHAZADEH House. In Yazd, you visit the
beautiful AMIR CHAKHMAQ Complex with its
mesmerizing lighting at night. O/N in Yazd
Museum of Iran, ABGINEH Museum, GO-
LESTAN PALACE , and the Grand Ba-
zaar of Tehran. Have a panoramic view of the
AZADI Tower in Tehran and see the nightlife
in Tehran strolling along the NATURE Bridge.
O/N in Tehran
DAY 6: YAZD-ISFAHAN Drive to SAR-
YAZD (50 km) and visit the BANK OF SAS-
SANID, a unique structure back to Sassanid
era (NEW to the itinerary). Return to YAZD
and admire the wonders of Yazd visiting
DOWLAT ABAD GARDEN , The TOW-
ERS of SILENCE and the Zoroastrians’ FIRE
TEMPLE. Drive to Isfahan (500 km) via Mey-
bod and Naein. Visit the CONGRGATIONAL
MOSQUE of Naein. O/N in Isfahan
DAY 3: TEHRAN - SHIRAZ Morning flight
to Shiraz. Visit NASIR-AL MOLK Mosque
(Pink Mosque), ATIGH CONGREGA-
TIONAL MOSQUE , KARIM-KHANI Cit-
adel, VAKIL Mosque and Bazaar, and the
beautiful QURAN GATE. O/N in Shiraz
DAY 4: SHIRAZ Excursion to Marvdasht
area and explore the ceremonial capital of
the Achaemenid Empire, PERSEPOLIS
, and then, Necropolis (110 km). Return to
Shiraz and visit the beautiful Mausoleum of
the great Persian poet, HAFEZ. O/N in Shiraz
DAY 8: ISFAHAN - ABYANEH-KASHAN -
TEHRAN Head to Kashan and Tehran (410
Km) and visit the Historical village of ABY-
ANEH en route (185 km). Continue the way
to Kashan and visit the beautiful FIN GAR-
DEN & and the Historical BOROJERDIS
and TABATABAEIS Houses. Drive to Imam
Khomeini International Airport (IKIA). O/N in
Airport Hotel
CLASSIC AND UNIQUE
Days8 NIGHTS &
9
TEHRAN
KASHAN
ISFAHAN
ABYANEH
SHIRAZ
YAZD

42
in Tehran
LESTAN PALACE , and the Grand
Bazaar of Tehran. Visit the Treasury of NA-
TIONAL JEWELRIES (It is open from Satur-
day to Tuesday) or ABBASI Museum. In the
evening, stroll along NATURE Bridge and en-
joy panoramic view of Tehran. O/N in Tehran
DAY 3: TEHRAN-TABRIZ (Flight) Morn-
ing flight to Tabriz. The Blue Mosque, the
historic BAZAAR OF TABRIZ and the
Carpet Bazaar are the highlights of Tabriz
to be discovered in this day. Drive to the
Rock village of KANDOVAN (56 Km) and visit
the mesmerizing homes carved in the Rock
Mountains. O/N in Tabriz
DAY 4: TABRIZ – ARAS –TABRIZ Full
day excursion and explore three ancient
monasteries in Eastern Azerbaijan. In Aras
area (131 Km away from Tabriz), admire
the ancient MONASTERY OF SAINT
STEPANUS , an important monastery for
Iranian Armenians alongside with two more
ancient cathedrals, the Chupan and the
Nane Maryam. O/N in Tabriz
DAY 5: TABRIZ-(TAKHTE-SOLOMAN)-
ZANJAN Drive to Zanjan (470 km) via
Bonab and Miandoab. En route to Zanjan,
explore the ancient historical monument of
TAKHT-E SOLEIMAN (SIEGE OF
SALOMON) and the Salomon Prison (326
Km). (NEW to the Itinerary) O/N in Zanjan
DAY 6: ZANJAN - HAMEDAN (263 km)
Before heading to Hamadan (260 Km), Zan-
jan sightseeing includes RAKHTSHOOY
KHANEH Edifice. Visit the turquoise-blue
SOLTANIEH DOME (45 Km) en route.
Continue the way to Hamdan and explore
the Ganjnameh Complex in city of Hamadan.
O/N in Hamadan
DAY 7: HAMEDAN - KANGAVAR - KER-
MANSHAH Visit the Mausoleum of AVICEN-
NA and ALAVIAN Funeral Tower. The Tomb
of ESTHER AND MORDECAI amazes you
before driving toward Kermanshah. Visit
the ANAHITA TEMPLE in Kangavar, the BI-
SOTUN ROCK RELIEF and the TAGH-E
BOSTAN Rock Relief. O/N in Kermanshah
DAY 8: KERMANSHAH-SUSA-AHVAZ
Drive to Ahvaz (650 km). Visit the HIS-
TORICAL ANCIENT CITY OF SUSA
in Khuzestan Province and also, one of the
few existent ziggurats outside Mesopotamia,
CHOQA ZANBIL , 80 kilometers north of
Ahvaz. O/N in Ahvaz
Days14 NIGHTS &
15PERSIAN HISTORY ON THE ROAD

43
DAY 15: Departure
End of Tour
DAY 9: AHWAZ-BANDAR DEYLAM-BIS-
HAPUR-SHIRAZ Drive toward Shiraz (635
Km) in early morning through Bandar-e Dey-
lam (NEW to the Itinerary). Visit the rock re-
lief of Kourangan (NEW to the Itinerary), the
ancient city of Bishapur and Tangheh-Cho-
gan en route. O/N in Shiraz
DAY 10: SHIRAZ Full day city tour in Shi-
raz includes NASIR-AL MOLK Mosque (Pink
Mosque), ATIGH congregational Mosque of
Shiraz, ERAM BOTANICAL GARDEN
, KARIM-KHANI Citadel, VAKIL Mosque and
Bazaar, and the beautiful QURAN GATE.
O/N in Shiraz
DAY 11: SHIRAZ Excursion to Marvdasht
area and explore the ceremonial capital of
the Achaemenid Empire, PERSEPOLIS
, and then, Necropolis (110 km). Return to
Shiraz and visit the beautiful Mausoleum of
the great Persian poet, HAFEZ. O/N in Shiraz
DAY 12: SHIRAZ- PASSARGADE-ISFA-
HAN Drive to Isfahan and make a stop in
PASARGADAE , the tomb of the Cyrus
the great, en route. Visit the ancient city of
IZADKHAST (NEW to the Itinerary) with an
ancient citadel back to Sassanid era. In Isfa-
han, stroll along the historical KJAJU Bridge
where everybody is singing a Persian song
and others are enjoying. O/N in Isfahan
DAY 14: ISFAHAN - ABYANEH- KASHAN-
TEHRAN Head to Kashan and Tehran (410
Km) and visit the Historical village of ABY-
ANEH en route (185 km). Continue the way
to Kashan and visit the beautiful FIN GAR-
DEN & and the Historical BOROJERDIS
and TABATABAEIS Houses. Drive to Imam
Khomeini International Airport (IKIA). O/N in
Airport Hotel
Days14 NIGHTS &
15PERSIAN HISTORY ON THE ROAD
TEHRAN
ZANJAN
HAMEDAN
AHWAZ
TABRIZ
KERMANSHAH
KASHAN
ISFAHAN
ABYANEH
SHIRAZ

44
in Tehran
LESTAN PALACE , and the Grand
Bazaar of Tehran. Visit the Treasury of NA-
TIONAL JEWELRIES (It is open from Satur-
day to Tuesday) or ABBASI Museum. In the
evening, stroll along NATURE Bridge and en-
joy panoramic view of Tehran. O/N in Tehran
DAY 3: TEHRAN - KASHAN - ISFAHAN
Drive to southern area of Tehran, the old
city of Rey (NEW to the Itinerary) and vis-
it the historical BORJE TOGHROL and the
CHESHMEH-AALI. En route, explore the
historical city of Kashan visiting the beautiful
FIN GARDEN and the Historical BORO-
JERDIS and TABATABAEIS Houses. Contin-
ue the way to Isfahan. O/N in Isfahan
DAY 5: ISFAHAN-NAEIN-YAZD Before
heading to YAZD (320 km), a newly reg-
istered city in the World Heritage Site list,
visit the Armenian district of Isfahan and the
historical VANK Cathedral. En route to Yazd,
stop in Koohpa ABBASI CARAVANSARY in
Koohpayeh, CONGRAGATIONAL MOSQUE
of Naein and NARIN CITADAL in Meybod.
O/N in Yazd
DAY 6: YAZD Full day Yazd sightseeing
includes DOWLAT ABAD GARDEN ,
The TOWERS of SILENCE and the Zoroastri-
ans’ FIRE TEMPLE. The CONGRAGATIONAL
MOSQUE of Yazd with the highest minarets,
ZOUR KHANEH of Yazd (The traditional gym)
(NEW to the itinerary), the WATER MUSEUM,
and AMIR CHAKHMAQ Complex with its beau-
tiful lighting at night are more places to be ex-
plored in Yazd. O/N in Yazd
DAY 7: YAZD-KERMAN Drive to Kerman
(386 Km) and explore the CHAM VILLAGE
with its 2000-year-old cypress and Silent
Tower. (NEW to the itinerary), also, the SAS-
SANID BANK of Sar-yazd (NEW to the itin-
erary) (67 Km). In Kerman, visit GANJ ALI
KHAN Complex and JABALIEH Stone Dome.
O/N in Kerman
DAY 8: KERMAN (360 KM) An excursion
to Mahan and enjoy the beautiful SHAZDEH
Garden and the Mausoleum of SHAH NEMA-
TOLLAH VALI. The ancient RAYEN CASTLE
is the next place to be explored. Return to
Kerman. O/N in Kerman
Days15 NIGHTS &
16IRAN GRAND TOUR

45
DAY 16: Departure
End of Tour
DAY 9: KERMAN-SHIRAZ (Flight) Morn-
ing flight to Shiraz. Visit ATIGH Congre-
gational Mosque of Shiraz, KARIM-KHANI
Citadel, VAKIL Mosque and Bazaar, and the
beautiful QURAN GATE. O/N in Shiraz
DAY 10: SHIRAZ-PERSEPOLIS-PAS-
SARGAD-SHIRAZ (140 KM) An excursion to
Marvdasht area and explore the ceremonial
capital of the Achaemenid Empire, PERSE-
POLIS , and then, Necropolis (110 km). The
next place to visit is PASARGADAE , the
tomb of the Cyrus the great. Return to SHI-
RAZ. O/N in Shiraz
DAY 11: SHIRAZ- PERESHKAFT Visit
the NASIR-AL MOLK Mosque (Pink Mosque)
in early morning with its super nice reflec-
tion of sunlight through the stained glass
windows and the Mausoleum of Hafez, the
great Persian Poet. Drive to a beautiful vil-
lage, called Pereshkaft, enjoy a cup of tea
and staying one night with local warmhearted
people. (55 Km) O/N in Local house
DAY 12: PERESHKAFT-BISHAPOOR-
AHVAZ Drive to Ahvaz (500 Km) and stop in
the historical area of BISHAPOOR. Visit the
TANGEH CHOGAN Relief and the Sassanid
city (ANAHITA Temple and the ruins of VALE-
RIAN castle). Visit the Relief of KURANGAN
in Nour Abad area en route. (NEW to the itin-
erary). In Ahvaz, enjoy the beautiful scenery
of Karoun River. O/N in Ahvaz
DAY 13: AHVAZ-SUSA-KERMANSHAH
Drive to Shushtar and visit the amazing
SHUSHTAR HISTORICAL HYDRAU-
LIC SYSTEM. Explore one of the most
ancient inhabited city in the world, SUSA,
dates back to over 6000 years ago, and vis-
it CHOGHA ZANBIL and the TOMB of
DANIEL, the Jewish Prophet. Continue the
way to Kermanshah (580 Km).
O/N in Kermanshah
DAY 14: KERMANSHAH- KANGAVAR-
HAMEDAN Visit the rock relief of TAGHE
BOSTAN and BISTOUN in Kermanshah.
Drive to Hamadan (192 Km). En route, visit
the Temple of Anahita in Kangavar. In Ham-
adan, visit Gandj-Nameh Complex and the
Tomb of ESTHER AND MORDECAI. O/N in
Hamadan
DAY 15: HAMEDAN - NOOSHIJAN - TEH-
RAN Drive to Tehran and explore NOOSHI-
JAN in MALAYER (85 Km) and explore the
hills of Nooshijan (NEW to the itinerary).
Continue the way to Imam Khomeini Interna-
tional Airport. O/N in Airport Hotel
Days15 NIGHTS &
16IRAN GRAND TOUR
TEHRAN
HAMEDAN
AHWAZ
KERMANSHAH
KASHAN
ISFAHAN
SHIRAZ
YAZD
KERMAN

46
E C O - C U L T U R A L T O U R
ADIFFERENT PICTURE OF IRAN WITH LOCALPEOPLE
in Tehran
DAY 2: TEHRAN Full day Tehran sightsee-
ing includes National Museum of Iran, GO-
LESTAN PALACE , and Grand Bazaar of
Tehran. Visit Nature Bridge in the evening. This
bridge connects two big parks in Tehran, Ab-o-
Atash and Taleghani and crosses over Modda-
ress highway. O/N in Tehran
DAY 3: TEHRAN - RASHT - KHOMAM
(346km) Drive toward Rasht via Qazvin free-
way. After visiting Chehel Sotoun Palace (A
safavid-era Pavilion) and Ali Qapu Mansion
in Qazvin, continue the way to Rasht and
visit Guilan Rural Heritage Museum en route
to City of Khomam. O/N in local house in
Khomam
DAY 4: KHOMAM-MASULEH-KHOMAM
(80 km) Head to the ancient village of Masouleh
via city of Fuman. Masouleh is called “the Town
of Stairs” because of its unique architecture
where the yard of the above building is the roof
of the below building. Return to Khomam. O/N
in local house in Khomam
DAY 5: KHOAMAM-ARDABIL-MESHKIN
SHAHR (363 km) Drive to Ardabil via Asa-
lem to Khalkhal Road where a paradise in
the heart of west north of Iran is. Arrive to
Ardabil and continue the way to Meshgin
Shahr and stroll along Middle East’s longest
suspension bridge. O/N in Camp in Meshgin
Shahr.
DAY 6: MESHKIN SHAHR-SAREIN (138
km) Today, you enjoy the beautiful landscape
of Sabalan Mountain. After lunch, you drive
to town of Sarein. Stop in city of Ardabil and
visit SHEIK SAFI AL DIN MUSEUM
AND SHRINE and the beautiful Shorabil
Lake. Continue the way to Sarein and enjoy
its mineral pools. O/N in Hotel in Sarein.
DAY 7: SAREIN-ZANJAN (291 km) Zanjan
is last city to visit. In Zanjan, visit RAKHT-
SHOOY KHANEH Edifice and Traditional
Bazaar of Zanjan. Visit Salt Men Museum
and the Hosseinieh Aminiha (14 century).
O/N in Zanjan.
DAY 8: ZANJAN - IKIA - DEPARTURE
(365km) Drive to IKIA via Qazvin road. En
route, visit DOME OF SOLTANIYEH
and Dragon Stone of Dash Kasan Caves in
Dashkasan County. O/N in Airport Hotel
Days8 NIGHTS &
9
DAY 9: Departure
End of Tour
TEHRAN
ZANJAN
RASHT
ARDABIL

47
PHOTOS OF SOME OUTGOING TOURS OPERATED BY FOTROS

48
WORKING HOURS /DAYS:
Sat-Wed: 8 am to 4 pm
Thu: 8 am to 1 pm
Friday is weekend in Iran.
COMMUNICATION
Iran code: +98
How to make a telephone call:
Country Code + Area Code + Phone Number
TRANSPORTATION:
Airport, Railway, Subway, BRT Bus, Taxi
IRAN INFO
MONEY:
Iranian currency
The official unit of currency in Iran is Rial; however the majority of people use the word “Toman” in everday exchange (1 Toman = 10 Rial).
The national currency is available in both bills and coins.
Available Bills:
5,000‌Rials 10,000‌Rials 20,000‌Rials 50,000‌Rials 100,000‌Rials 500,000‌Rials 1,000,000‌Rials
Currency Exchange: Exchange Shops, Airport, Banks and Hotels.
EMERGENCIES:
Ambulance: 115
Police: 110
Fire: 125
USEFUL INFO:
Voltage/Electric Current: 220 V - 50 HZ
Plugs have 2 prongs.
WATER:
Tap water is drinkable in most cities in Iran.
Bottled Water is available.
THE SEASONS:
Spring: March 21st to June 21st
Summer: Jun 22nd to Sep 22nd
Autumn: Sep 23rd to Dec 21st
Winter: Dec 22nd to Mar 20th
Coins: 1,000‌Rials 2,000‌Rials 5,000‌Rials

Iran Travel Guide - Fotros Travel

Iran Travel Guide - Fotros Travel

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