Set on the lower slopes of the magnificent, snowcapped Alborz Mountains is Iran's capital, a cosmopolitan hub teeming with activity and dotted with art galleries, chic cafes, internationally-styled restaurants, and impressive museums. In the middle of Azadi Square stands the emblematic Azadi Tower, a striking contemporary structure registered in the list of national monuments of Iran. A stay in the city should certainly include a visit to the Treasury of National Jewels, the Seyhoun Art Gallery for its regular exhibitions of up-and-coming young Iranian artists, and the Gandhi Shopping Centre's cosy cafes and restaurants. Try to catch a show at the Teatre Shahr, where you're bound to be impressed by the Iranian actors performing in Farsi.
Dotting the Persian Gulf in the Strait of Humz, located 60 kilometres off the southern coast of Iran, Qeshm Island lies opposite the port cities of Bandar Abbas and Bandar Khamir. It boasts vast swathes of stark desert-like landscapes dotted with ancient structures and featuring amazing natural wonders. Visitors can look forward to discovering the pristine shores scattered with colourflu fishing boats and lapped by azure waters. Visit Shib Deraz and the Sea Turtle Breeding Area, explore the nearby Hengam Island and discover the incredible Stars Valley. Other highlights include: abundant wildlife, unique Unesco-listed geological formations and the ancient Portuguese Fortress. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the magnificent collection of stunning beaches and impressive canyons.
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Set along the southern coast of Iran on the Persian Gulf, Bandar Abbas is a vibrant port city which serves as the capital of the Hormozgan Province. This attractive seaside city occupies a strategic position on the narrow Strait of Hormuz, and is the location of the main base of the Iranian Navy, as well as a transport hub for Qeshm and Hormoz Islands. Visitors can look forward to experiencing citylife by visiting the bazaar or the fish market. Other attractions include the Galeh-Dari Bath, a historical public bath; Indians Temple, a beautiful Hindu landmark; and Bandar Abbas Grand Museum, displaying a fascinating collection of Iranian treasures.
Situated in southeastern Iran, the city of Kerman is one of the largest cities in the country. This lively city serves as the capital of the Kerman Province and is famous for its rich history and strong cultural heritage. Visitors can look forward to exploring the city’s numerous historic mosques and Zoroastrian fire temples, as well as browsing the many colourful stalls at Kerman’s ancient, covered bazaar. Other popular attractions include the Ganjali Khan complex, a Safavid-era building with a school, bazaar and bathhouse; Jabalieh, a beautiful dome-shaped building from the Sassanide period; and the Jame Mosque of Kerman, which dates back to the 14th century and is known for its breathtakingly beautiful ceiling.
Also known as Yezd, the city of Yazd is the capital of the Yazd Province in Iran, and lies 270 kilometers southeast of Esfahan. This is a city of narrow, winding lanes, 'badgirs' (wind catchers or wind towers), sun-dried mud-brick homes, and high walls – it’s a place to get lost in. Its UNESCO-listed old city is regarded as one of the most ancient sites in the world, and its Zoroastrian population is the second highest in Iran. Visit the Zoroastrian Towers of Silence on the outskirts of the city, view the exquisite mosaic work at the Majid-e Jame mosque, and wander through the enthralling Atashkadeh fire temple. Other highlights include the Water Museum, the spectacular Amir Chakhmakh complex, and the gorgeous Dowiat Abad Gardens.
Encompassed by a sweeping desert landscape in the rural Jandaq Rural District, Mazraeh-ye Farahzad is a small village located in the far east of Isfahan Province in Central Iran. This old-fashioned oasis is an ideal stopover to the undulating sand dunes of Mesr Desert where visitors can enjoy a camel safari, quad biking and savour the comforting tranquillity of the secluded surroundings.
Set in central Iran, Isfahan or Esfahan is regarded as Iran’s number-one tourist destination – and there is so much about the city to support this. Tree-lined boulevards, Persian gardens and architecture, characteristic hand-painted tiling, significant Islamic buildings and bazaars lend a grandeur that justifies the words of a 16th-century rhyme that describes it has ‘Half the World’. Visit the city’s magnificent Naqsh-e Jahan Square - formally Imam Square, a Unesco World Heritage Site; stroll the picturesque 6 kilometres Chahar Bagh Boulevard, and the Hasht Behesht and Chehel Sotoun gardens located on either side. The mosques, including the Imam and Hakim Mosques, are among the most beautiful and oldest in Iran.
