Iran is a country filled with ancient history, stunning landscapes, and rich culture, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Among the top places to visit in Iran is the city of Isfahan, known for its majestic Islamic architecture and the beautiful Naqsh-e Jahan Square. Tehran, the capital, offers modern museums, vibrant bazaars, and the towering Milad Tower. Another highlight is Shiraz, the city of poetry, where travelers can explore the gardens of Eram and the tombs of poets Hafez and Saadi.
Best Places to Visit in Iran
One of the most fascinating places to visit in Iran is the ancient ruins of Persepolis, once the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Nature lovers will enjoy the lush greenery of the Caspian Sea region and the stunning deserts of Yazd, a UNESCO-listed old city with wind towers and adobe houses. The island of Kish in the Persian Gulf is also one of the most popular places to visit in Iran for those seeking beaches, shopping, and relaxation.
For history and culture enthusiasts, there are countless places to visit in Iran that showcase Persian heritage and Islamic artistry. From the colorful mosques of Qom to the mountainous villages of Kurdistan, each region offers something unique. Whether you're drawn to historic cities, natural wonders, or cultural landmarks, the places to visit in Iran promise an unforgettable travel experience.
1. Golestan Palace
The Golestan Palace, also known as the “Flower Palace”, is the oldest and most beautiful of all the historical monuments in Tehran and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is not just a palace but a magnificent palace complex. It consists of 17 structures, including palaces, halls, galleries, and museums. Most of the buildings were built by the Qajar Dynasty, which ruled from 1789 to 1925.
It will take you about 2-3 hours to see everything.
The Golestan Palace is located right next to the Grand Bazaar of Tehran where you can easily spend a few hours shopping, trying Iranian food and drinks, and feeling the spirit of Tehran.
The Golestan Palace in Tehran is one of the most beautiful places in Iran.
Opening hours: daily 9:30 – 18:30 (spring and summer) / 9:00 – 18:30 (autumn and winter)
Entrance fee: 300,000 rials (~ 1.70 € / 1.80 USD), and for each hall and museum, 200,000 rials (~ 1.20 € / 1.30 USD). 16 in total.
Nearest metro station: Panjdah-e Khordad metro station (red line)
2. Azadi Tower
Azadi Tower is one of the main landmarks of the capital city of Iran. It was built to commemorate the foundation of the Persian Empire and its 2,500th anniversary.
In sum, Azadi Tower is not just a monumental structure—it’s a narrative in stone, marking Iran’s historical grandeur, architectural genius, and the enduring human yearning for liberty. Whether you come for its sweeping views, its layered history, or its cultural vibrancy, it's a must-see staple on any journey through Iran.
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday: 9:00 – 17:00 / Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
Entrance fee: 150,000 rials (~ 0.90 €/ 1 USD)
Closest metro station: Maidan-e Azadi station on the metro (line 4)
3. Imamzadeh Saleh Shrine
The Imamzadeh Saleh Shrine, also known as the Tajrish Mosque, is located in the northern part of Tehran. You can walk to the mosque through the Tajrish Bazaar. This bazaar is very attractive, especially outside. It is completely different from the Grand Bazaar in central Tehran.
This part of Tehran feels like being in a small town in the mountains. It is located at an altitude of 1,1612 meters. Therefore, it is much cooler than the south of Tehran.
The shrine itself is an architectural masterpiece. Both the exterior and interior are charming. The colorful and detailed tile work on the outside and the mirror work inside the mosque make this place unforgettable.
After reaching the entrance of the mosque courtyard, you need to cover yourself with a chador. You can get one at the entrance.
It is customary to wear a chador in almost all mosques and shrines in Iran. The chador is a large cloth that needs to be wrapped around your head and body.
Located in Tajrish Square in northern Tehran, the Imamzadeh Saleh Shrine is one of the main landmarks of Tehran, Iran.
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday: 9:00 – 17:00 / Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
Entry fee: None
How to get there: It took me 1 hour and 20 minutes to get from Haram-e-Motahar station to Tajrish metro station
4. Historical houses in Kashan
Kashan has modern and large traditional houses with spectacular gardens and courtyards from the 18th and 19th centuries. These were originally ancient Persian houses where wealthy families lived. Today, they are considered historic houses.
The most famous historic houses in Kashan are Tabatabai House, Borujerdi House, Mahinestan Rahib House, Ameri House, Manuchehri House, and Abbasi House.
Each traditional house is a glorious masterpiece of Persian architecture. Both inside and out, the houses are expertly decorated and ornate. The colorful stained glass windows, extraordinary mirror work, and stunning frescoes in particular are incredibly beautiful.
Opening hours: Tabatabai Historical Building, Abbasi Historical Building: daily 8:00 – 18:00 / Borujerdi Historical Building: daily 9:00 – 17:00
Entrance fee: I bought a combined ticket for the four attractions above and I paid 350,000 IRL (~2 € / 2.20 USD). Individually, each entrance fee is 150,000 IRL (~ €0.90 / $1 USD). According to some online sources, the entrance fee for each of the traditional houses is today 300,000 IRL (~ €1.70 / $1.80 USD).
How to get there: It is located in the heart of Kashan city. Most of Kashan's tourist attractions are very close to each other, including the Sultan Amir Ahmed Bathhouse, the Agha Bozorg Mosque, and the Kashan Bazaar. You should definitely stay in a hotel in this neighborhood.
5. Sultan Amir Ahmed Bathhouse, Kashan
The Sultan Amir Ahmed Bathhouse is a traditional Iranian public bathhouse built in the 16th century. Public bathhouses have been a prominent feature of Middle Eastern countries since ancient times.
Bathhouses were not only places where people could wash themselves, but also relieve the stress of everyday life. Locals could relax and socialize.
The roof of the bathhouse, where you can actually walk, is made of convex glass domes through which light enters the bathhouse. The interior is decorated with turquoise and gold tile work, colorful mosaics, and charming paintings.
Top of Sultan Amir Ahmed Bathhouse in Kashan, Iran.
From above Sultan Amir Ahmed Bathhouse - A must-see in Kashan
Taking a selfie at Sultan Amir Ahmed Bathhouse in Kashan, Iran. The bathhouse is famous for its decorative tiles and paintings on the walls and ceiling.
Opening hours: 9:00 – 17:00
Entrance fee: 200,000 rials (~ 1.20 € / 1.30 USD)
How to get there: It is located in the heart of Kashan city, near the historic Kashan House, Agha Bozorg Mosque, and Kashan Bazaar.
6. Agha Bozorg Mosque, Kashan
This 18th-century mosque is very different from other famous colorful and ornate mosques in Iran. The charm of the Agha Bozorg Mosque lies in its simplicity.
Opening hours: 9:30 – 18:00 daily
Entrance fee: 300,000 rials (~ 1.70 € / 1.80 USD)
How to get there: It is located in the heart of Kashan city, near the historic house, Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse, and Kashan Bazaar.
7. Kashan Bazaar
The beautiful old bazaar in the heart of Kashan has been a center of trade since it was built by the Seljuk Empire in the 12th century.
At the bazaar, if you don’t have enough clothes to comply with the Iranian dress code, you can buy long shirts and colorful headscarves. Each piece costs around 3-4 euros. Also try fresh juices and Persian sweets.
What you see in the picture below is the 19th-century Aminoddol Caravanserai (also called Khan Amin al-Dawleh Timche), which is the most beautiful courtyard of this charming traditional bazaar. What makes the caravanserai truly remarkable is its domed roof with its stunning kaleidoscopic decorations and designs.
Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM / Closed on Friday
How to get there: It is located in the heart of Kashan city, near the historical houses, Agha Bozorg Mosque and Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse.
8. Fin Garden, Kashan
The beautiful Fin Garden is the oldest Persian garden in Iran, built in the 16th century. There are nine Persian gardens registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Fin Garden is one of them.
You will find exquisitely decorated architectural masterpieces, sophisticated fountains, pools, beautiful trees and flowers there. They showcase a blend of architectural techniques from famous Persian dynasties, namely the Safavid, Zand and Qajar dynasties.
Opening hours: Daily 9:30 – 18:00
Entry fee: 300,000 rials (~ 1.70 € / 1.80 USD)
How to get there: It takes 20 minutes by taxi from Kashan Bazaar.
Where to eat in Kashan
In Kashan Bazaar, there are many delicious food and drinks available in beautiful cafes and restaurants. Take your time and try as many as you can.
In the bazaar, you can also find Hamman-e Khan Coffee Shop which is a perfect place for lunch, tea and sweets. It is a traditional dining hall with traditional service.
I enjoyed my tea while sitting on a beautiful Persian carpet and taking hundreds of selfies. I quickly learned that taking selfies for hours is the most common thing in Iran.
Abbasi Traditional Restaurant and Tea House in the old city is an absolutely stunning traditional restaurant. Here, I tried "Mosama Bademjan with Camel Meat" (eggplant with camel meat), lavash bread, rose water and a very sweet saffron drink which I can highly recommend.
What I am sitting on here is a Takht Sonati. It is a kind of wooden bed covered with Persian carpet and decorated with cushions on the sides. This is the usual seating arrangement in traditional restaurants.
9. Aran and Bidgol Holy Temple
About 12 kilometers from Kashan, you can find the Aran and Bidgol (or Aran va Bidgol) Holy Temple, also known as the Mohammad Helal Temple or the Temple of Hillab ibn Ali. This charming mosque is a perfect representation of the beauty of Islamic and Persian architecture. Its majestic and dazzling tiled domes and minarets covered with intricate mosaic tiles can leave you speechless.
Aran and Bidgol is also the name of the city where this temple is located. It is an ancient desert city surrounded by the Aran and Bidgol Desert.
The mosque itself is not a tourist attraction. This beautiful mosque is mostly visited by locals.
Women here are required to be double-covered. You will be given a chador before entering the courtyard.
10. Namak Lake
Namak Lake is a salt lake in Iran. It is located about 60 kilometers from Kashan. The lake is huge but mostly dry. If you visit the lake in winter, it will be less dry because some water will rise to the surface of the salt.
The lake and its surroundings are breathtaking. In particular, the sunset from the salt lake is unforgettable.
Sunset on Namak Salt Lake - Iran Travel Tips
How to get there: The best way to get there is to join a tour that includes visits to the holy temples of Aran and Bigol, the underground city of Noushabad, Lake Noushabad, and the sand dunes of the Maranjab desert. End this epic day with traditional Persian food and Persian tea at a caravanserai.
Entrance fee to Noushabad Underground City: 200,000 rials (~ 1.20 € / 1.30 USD)
The rest of these beautiful places are free to enter.
11. Abyaneh
Abyaneh is one of the most amazing villages and famous landmarks in Iran. It is also known as the Red Clay Village because its houses are made of red clay bricks.
Due to the high levels of iron oxide, the soil in Abyaneh village is slightly reddish which makes the village so picturesque.
It is one of the oldest villages in Iran where time has stood still. The locals have preserved their authentic culture, language, architecture, clothing and traditional rituals. It is a truly remarkable travel destination in beautiful Iran.
12. Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Isfahan
Listed as one of the Seven Wonders of Iran, Naqsh-e Jahan Square is a charming large public open space in the center of Isfahan. It is one of the most beautiful places in Iran.
This square houses the charming Grand Bazaar, a vast maze of 11th-century shops filled with dozens of colorful handicrafts, carpets, clothing, spices, and more.
Moreover, you can find Sheikh Latifullah Mosque, Ali Qapu Palace, Shah Mosque, and Kaysari Gate here. The main entrance to the bazaar in Isfahan is the Kaysari Gate. Spend some time here and immerse yourself in the beauty of Persia.
If you want to see and buy beautiful carpets, visit my friend Hamid Mirzaei at the Silk Road Shop.
Opening hours: 24/7
Entrance fee: No cost
How to get there: It is located in the historical center of Isfahan. Make sure to stay in a hotel near Naqsh-e Jahan Square. This way you will be close to most of the tourist attractions in Isfahan.
13. Sheikh Lutfollah Mosque
One of the Seven Wonders of Iran, Sheikh Lutfollah Mosque located in Naqsh-e Jahan Square is an extraordinary and magical architectural masterpiece from the 17th century built by the Safavid Dynasty. It is the most beautiful and stunning building in Isfahan.
It was built as a private royal mosque for Shah Abbas. Since it was a private mosque built only for the king and the women of his harem, it is much smaller than other mosques and does not have a minaret, but the tile work is much better than the tile work of other mosques in Naqsh-e Jahan Square.
Shah Abbas even built a tunnel to connect the Ali Qapu Palace to his private mosque. Using the tunnel, he and the women of his harem could walk between the two places without being noticed by the public.
Opening hours: 9:00 – 12:30 / 14:00 – 18:00 daily
Entrance fee: 500,000 IRR (~2.90 € / 3.10 USD)
How to get there: It is located in Naqsh-e-Jahan Square.
14. Ali Qapu Palace, Isfahan
The Ali Qapu Palace in Isfahan is another notable heritage of Iran. It was also built by the Safavid dynasty.
This beautiful palace is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It was the residence of the Safavid kings and they also used it for official royal meetings.
One of the most stunning parts of the palace is the balcony on the fourth floor from which you can see an incredible view of Naqsh-e Jahan Square and two of the most beautiful Iranian mosques: Sheikh Lotfollah and Shah Mosque.
What surprised me the most was that each floor has its own unique decoration and ornamentation, such as the yellow and Persian blue tile work on the staircase, the intricate floral designs, or the delicate stucco work.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM / Sunday: 9:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Entrance fee: 500,000 IRR (~2.90 € / 3.10 USD)
How to get there: It is located in Naqsh-e Jahan Square.
15. Shah Mosque, Isfahan
The Shah Mosque is one of the Seven Wonders of Iran and one of the most famous architectural monuments of Persian architecture during the Islamic era. It is no surprise that it is also registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with Naqsh-e Jahan Square.
You can also find this mosque on Iran’s 20,000 rial note.
It was built by the Safavid dynasty in the 17th century. The walls and ceiling are amazingly decorated with seven-colored tiles that create beautiful mosaic patterns and calligraphy.
The beauty and grandeur of the Shah Mosque will make you want to stay there for hours.
Opening hours: Daily 9:00 – 17:00
Entry fee: 500,000 IRL (~2.90 € / 3.10 USD)
How to get there: It is located in Naqsh-e Jahan Square.
16. Jame Mosque, Isfahan
This is one of the oldest mosques in Iran and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Construction of Jame Mosque began in the 8th century by the Umayyad dynasty and has been rebuilt and reconstructed numerous times by different dynasties since then.
It was built in the four-iwan architectural style. An iwan is a type of gate with rectangular walls on three sides. The four-iwan style refers to the placement of four gates facing each other.
Some of the most exquisite elements were added by the Safavids, such as intricate muqarnas (niche-like rooms), colorful glazed tile work, and minarets.
Opening hours: Daily 6:00 – 20:00
Entry fee: 500,000 IRR (~2.90 € / 3.10 USD)
How to get there: 20-25 minutes walk from the Kayseri Gate of Naqsh-e Jahan Square
17. Chehel Sotun Palace, Isfahan
On your second day in Isfahan, you should explore this and the following beautiful places.
Chehel Sotun Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the World Heritage Sites in Iran.
This Persian pavilion was built in the 17th century by a Safavid king, Shah Abbas II, at the end of a long pool in a beautiful park. It was used for entertainment, ceremonies, and to receive foreign ambassadors.
Both the exterior and interior of the palace are charming.
It is also called the Palace of Forty Pillars for a very interesting reason. The palace has 20 wooden pillars on its front porch, and 20 of the pillars are reflected in the water of the pool in front. This gives the impression that there are actually 40 pillars supporting the building.
However, its grandeur is mainly due to the beautiful frescoes and murals on ceramics. The paintings depict famous historical scenes in which notable and brave warriors of the Safavid Empire are depicted.
Finally, the floral and animal decorations on the ceiling and on the walls between the paintings make the palace’s interior a stunning and complete masterpiece.
Opening hours: Saturday - Wednesday: 9:30 - 15:45 / Thursday, Friday: Closed
Entrance fee: 500,000 IRR (~2.90 € / 3.10 USD)
How to get there: 10 minutes walk from Naqsh-e Jahan Square.
18. Vank Cathedral, Isfahan
Another site listed as one of the Seven Wonders of Iran is the Vank Church, also called the Holy Savior Cathedral, located in the Armenian Quarter of Isfahan, known as New Julfa.
It was built in the early 17th century, along with 12 other churches, by Armenian immigrants during the Safavid era. Shah Abbas I forced these Armenian immigrants to resettle in Isfahan during the Ottoman Wars of 1603-1618.
The cathedral is a magnificent blend of Armenian and Persian architecture. The stunning interior, with colorful frescoes depicting biblical stories, golden carvings, and rich Persian-style tile work, will take your breath away.
Vank Cathedral is not only this beautiful church, but also a museum and library that houses biblical manuscripts and historical documents.
The historical documents are mainly about the history of the Armenian community in Isfahan and the Armenian Genocide (the systematic extermination of about one million Armenians by the Ottoman Empire). For this reason, Vank Cathedral is one of the most well-known Armenian centers in the world.
Opening hours: 8:30 - 17:30 daily
Admission fee: 200,000 rials (~1.20 € / ~ 1.30 USD)
How to get there: 20-25 minutes by taxi from Naqsh-e Jahan Square
19. Mollabashi House, Isfahan
The Mollabashi House, also known as Motamedi House, is one of the most fascinating architectural monuments not only in Iran but also in the world.
This charming historical house was built and designed during the Zandeh period (1751-1779, during the reign of the Zand Dynasty). During the Qajar period (1789-1925), a famous astronomer during the reign of Nasser al-Din Shah bought the house, added more rooms, and further designed this beautiful palace. During this period, it also served as a cultural and religious institution.
Later, in 2001, the Motamedi family purchased and renovated the building and courtyard.
Today, you will find a stunning house with beautiful rooms with colorful stained glass windows, mirrored walls, extraordinary stucco, and ceilings decorated with colorful tiles.
Don’t be surprised if you want to spend the whole day there and get lost in the many wonderfully designed rooms of this palace.
Opening hours: Daily 9:30 – 20:00
Entry fee: 150,000 rials (~ 0.90 €/ 1 USD)
How to get there: 20-25 minutes on foot from Naqsh-e Jahan Square
20. Khaju Bridge, Isfahan
The Khaju Bridge in Isfahan is a beautiful historical bridge located over the Zayendrud River, one of the largest rivers in Iran. During the dry season, there is little or no water in the river, but the bridge is still magnificent. For only a few weeks in winter, you will find water in the river.
This uniquely designed bridge was built by Shah Abbas II during the Safavid era in the late 17th century. The bridge itself is decorated with charming tile work and paintings. In the center of one of the bridges, there is an octagonal pavilion that displays some of the most beautiful tile work on the bridge.
The most magical part of the day at the Khaju Bridge is the night light when it is illuminated and the bridge glows wonderfully in the dark. During this time, you will see many young people and families socializing around the bridge.
In the summer, locals sing traditional songs and dance under the bridge. Of course, you will make many new local friends there. This will definitely be one of your most memorable experiences in Iran.
Khaju Bridge at sunset in winter Isfahan, Iran - One of the best places to visit in Iran
Opening hours: 24/7
Entrance fee: Free
How to get there: 8-10 minutes by taxi from Naqsh-e Jahan Square
Where to eat in Isfahan
A wander around the cafes and restaurants in Isfahan is worth the time as it is a cultural experience in itself. My favorites were the traditional banquet hall, the Namakdan Mansion, and the Abbasi Traditional Tea House at the Abbasi Hotel. These are indicated in red on the Isfahan map.
At Abbasi Tea House, you have to try the saffron ice cream with Falooda and rose water. It is heaven. I have been there three times and I could go there again and again. I felt like a little princess from the time of the Persian Empire there.
While you are there, do visit this charming hotel. It is like a palace. They also have a really fancy restaurant inside. The complex was built 400 years ago by a king named Sultan Hussein of the Safavids.
21. Yazd Old City
The historic old city of Yazd is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I loved this place. Wandering around this ancient city was so surreal. It is a maze-like place with buildings made of yellow-brown mud bricks. Take your time and don’t rush here.
Located in central Iran, the old city of Yazd is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its stunning mud brick architecture, narrow winding alleys and ancient wind-catchers (badgirs), it reflects a rich Persian history. The city’s desert-adapted design keeps the buildings cool and charming. Highlights include the Jameh Mosque, the Amir Chakhmak complex and traditional houses with peaceful courtyards. The old city of Yazd offers a unique glimpse into Iran’s cultural and architectural heritage, attracting those seeking authentic experiences and timeless beauty in a well-preserved historical setting.
22. Yazd Grand Mosque
Yazd’s Grand Mosque is one of the most beautiful mosques in Iran and one of the most remarkable examples of Persian architecture. You can also find this grand mosque on the Iranian 200,000 rial note.
It was built in the 12th century. The entrance to the Grand Mosque is marked by a large iwan and a pair of minarets built during the Safavid era. At 52 meters (170 feet) high, they are the tallest minarets in Persian mosques.
Walking through the iwan at the main entrance, you will find yourself in an arcaded courtyard. Then, you will enter the main mosque, which also has a sophisticatedly decorated entrance hall with colorful and intricate mosaics made of tiles.
Pay attention to the tall tiled mihrab inside the mosque. The mihrab is a very important part of the mosque because it indicates the Qibla, which is the direction of the Kaaba in the holy city of Mecca. As you know, Muslims have to face the Qibla during prayer.
Opening hours: 8:00 - 19:00 except for 5 prayer times
Entrance fee: 200,000 Iranian Rials (~1.20 € / ~ 1.30 USD)
How to get there: It is located in the heart of the old city of Yazd.
25. Kerman Local Market
The local market is not a tourist attraction at all. Its beauty lies in its simplicity. It is a local market without tourists. If you want to experience how locals live their daily lives in a small town, this is the place for you.
If you have some free time, also visit the tourist attractions, such as the Moshtari-e Moshtaq Ali Shah Mosque, Ganjali Khan Complex, Ganjali Khan Bath, Jameh Mosque, and Vakil Bazaar. These are all amazing places and they are all located in the old center of Kerman. Here is a map of all the attractions in Kerman.
26. Qaluts (Dasht-e Lut Desert)
The Qaluts Desert is located in the Shahdad District of Kerman Province. It is considered the hottest desert in the world and the hottest region in the world. The highest temperature measured in the shade was 70.7 degrees Celsius (159.26 Fahrenheit).
This beautiful desert is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will find huge rock formations, incredibly high sand dunes, salt flats and abandoned forts scattered around the desert.
I recommend a 2-day trip to the Lut Desert (or Dasht-e Lut) Kalut (or Kalut), Mahan, the sacred shrine of Shah Nematullah Vali and Shazdeh Mahan Garden, the adobe fort, Rayen Fort, Shafi Abad Qanat, the Shur River, a night in a desert camp, dinner, stargazing and a desert safari starting before sunrise the next day, breakfast and exploring the Lut Desert again, including the largest adobe structure in the world, the Bam Fort (Arg-e Bam).
Speaking of the Shur River, be aware that it is completely dry even in October. I think you will only find water there in winter. In October, you can only see water if you dig a little into the ground. :-)
This trip was definitely over 1,000 kilometers (821 miles). I don't know the exact location of all the places we visited, but here is a map that can give you an approximate idea of the location, direction, and distance.
A trip can start at 25 € (~27 USD) per person for four people in a car. This means a taxi driver will drive you around since he doesn't speak English.
When I was there in the second half of October, the weather was absolutely perfect. The best time to go is from mid-October to late November and from early April to late May.
The desert is vast and has many different forms. If you join a tour, you will be taken to see the different types of rock formations created by the desert during the day, at sunset, and at sunrise.
Entrance fee to the Shah Nematullah Vali Holy Shrine: 500,000 IRR. (~ 2.90 € / 3.10 USD)
Shazdeh Garden Mahan Entrance Fee: 500,000 IRR (~ 2.90 € / 3.10 USD)
Rayen Citadel Entrance Fee: 300,000 IRR (~ 1.70 € / 1.80 USD)
Bam Citadel Entrance Fee: 500,000 IRR (~ 2.90 € / 3.10 USD)
27. Valley of Stars
The main attraction of the UNESCO Global Geopark located on Kesham Island is the Valley of Stars. The Valley of Stars is a two million year old natural phenomenon with majestic canyons and gorges courtesy of incredibly beautiful rock formations.
The locals told me that once upon a time a meteorite fell from the sky and created its strange rock formations. That is why they call it the Valley of Stars. Contrary to local legends, scientific research says that the strange rock formations were formed by thousands of years of erosion by wind and water.
Wandering among the mysterious and towering rock pillars of the valley is truly an amazing experience. You can also climb to the top of the canyon. The best and most magical time to do this is in the evening when the colors and hues of the valley change with the sunset.
You can also stay there at night. But in that case, be prepared to meet ghosts and jinn. They make strange and scary noises in the valley. ;) It is definitely very scary!
Opening hours: Every day except Saturday
Entry fee: 20,000 riyals (~0.30 USD)
How to get there: It is about 20 km from the city of Qeshm. The best way to get there is by taxi or joining a tour.
28. Chahkuh Canyon
Chahkuh Canyon is one of the stunning geological wonders of the UNESCO Geopark Kesham Island.
Here, you will find two canyons crashing into each other vertically. It seems like this masterpiece is the creation of an artist but in reality, it was created by natural elements such as ocean waves, wind and rain over thousands of years.
In the past, it was a very important place for the local people. The locals, in order to retain and use the water flowing in the canyon, would dig wells for themselves. That is why they called the canyon Chahkuh, which means Mount Well.
Opening hours: Daily 8:00 - 19:00
Entry fee: 200,000 riyals (~ 1.20 € / 1.30 USD)
How to get there: It is next to the village of Chahkuh. Take a taxi or join a tour to get there.
29. Hormuz Island Red Beach
The Red Beach of Hormuz Island is one of the most unusual beaches in the world. Its red sand makes not only the beach but also the water red.
You might ask: why are the sand and water red? I’ll tell you. The high concentration of iron oxide in the soil makes the sand red. And the red sand in the sea also gives the water a pink color.
30. Nasir ol Molk Mosque, Shiraz
The Nasir ol Molk Mosque is one of the most beautiful traditional mosques in the world and the most popular tourist attraction in Iran.
One of the Seven Wonders of Iran, this stunning mosque was built by the Qajar Dynasty in the second half of the 19th century, like other architectural masterpieces in Iran. It is also called the Pink Mosque of Shiraz, the Rainbow Mosque, the Kaleidoscope Mosque, or the Mosque of Colors. Soon, you will understand why.
The mosque is very well known for its abundant use of pink colored tiles, both for the interior design of the mosque and for the tile work in its courtyard.
Inside the mosque, there are several traditional elements such as multi-colored stained-glass windows and five recesses that create a spectacular effect inside as if you are standing in a kaleidoscope.
When the sunlight hits the colored glass, the entire hall of the mosque is filled with a dazzling rainbow of colors. This is what makes it one of the most beautiful places in Iran.
The most magical time to enjoy this colorful mosque is when the sun rises. As the sun rises, the mosque comes alive and the colors start dancing as if hundreds of colorful butterflies are flying in the mosque.
At this time, the Persian carpets of the mosque also light up as the sun reflects the colored glass designs on them. Get there before the doors open for visitors so that you can experience this magic first.
Opening hours: 07:30 – 19:00
Entry fee: 200,000 IRL (~1.20 € / ~ 1.30 USD)
How to get there: Walking distance from Shah Cheragh Mosque, Vakil Bazaar, Naranjestan Gardens and Qabam House.
FAQ – Places to Visit in Iran
Q1: Is Iran safe for tourists?
A: Yes, Iran is generally safe for tourists. The local people are known for their hospitality. However, it's important to stay informed about travel advisories from your government and follow local laws and customs.
Q2: What is the best time to visit Iran?
A: The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
Q3: Do I need a visa to visit Iran?
A: Most travelers need a visa to enter Iran. However, some nationalities can get a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa. Always check with the Iranian embassy or consulate before planning your trip.
Q4: What are some must-see places to visit in Iran?
A: Top places include Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Yazd, Persepolis, Kashan, and the islands like Kish and Qeshm. Each offers unique cultural and historical experiences.
Q5: Is it easy to travel around Iran?
A: Yes, Iran has a well-developed network of buses, domestic flights, and trains. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also available in major cities.
Conclusion
Iran is a land of timeless beauty, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and natural wonders. From the grand architecture of Isfahan and the poetic ambiance of Shiraz to the ancient ruins of Persepolis and the quiet charm of Yazd, the places to visit in Iran captivate every kind of traveler. Whether you're exploring bustling bazaars, relaxing in Persian gardens, or discovering the silence of desert landscapes, each destination tells a unique story.
The wide range of places to visit in Iran reflects the country’s deep cultural roots and scenic diversity. Travelers can experience centuries of Persian civilization while enjoying the warm hospitality of the Iranian people. For anyone seeking a journey full of wonder and discovery, the places to visit in Iran promise unforgettable memories.