Iran journey in depth

Welcome to Iran journey in depth

Iran is one of the oldest origins of human civilization. According to the latest findings, the Iranian civilization dates back to 4000 years before Christ. Due to the location of Iran, this country has four seasons. You can find various climates in different regions of Iran. The Iran journey we have prepared, shows you most of the natural, historical and cultural attractions of Iran. Therefore, you can get to know more about this amazing country.

For most of us the first thing that comes to mind after hearing the word “journey,” is traveling with cars. Iran is a huge country with various spectacular sceneries in it. However, the road is a part of the journey to Iran. Especially, being on the road with the ones we love can be very appealing. But, the most beautiful roads in Iran are more than just roads. These roads are the destination of many Iran tours. This way, some want to explore Iran to see these amazing roads. We spend many parts of this Iran journey on the road as well. Therefore, we have chosen traveling on the roads that can increase the attractions you see while you explore Iran. This tour is the longest Iran tour packages that we provide.

Tehran

This is a tour in Iran in 3 weeks. We start our Iran journey in the political capital of Iran, Tehran. Many kings in the last 400 years have paid a lot of attention to Tehran. Therefore, most of the important monuments during these years are in Tehran.

Tabriz

Then, we will continue our long Iran journey by flying to Tabriz. Tabriz is a city in the north-west of Iran. The history of this city includes many incidents. The current Tabriz city dates back to the Parthian and Sasanid era. Most of the residents of Tabriz are Azerbaijani. They speak Azerbaijani Turkish. The cliff village of Kandovan in Tabriz can be an unforgettable experience for you.

Ardabil

After that, we will go to Ardabil. This city has been the capital of Azerbaijan before Islam and after Islam. The importance of this city is not just because of some of the kings who have chosen it as their capital. But, the head of Safavid dynasty, Sheik Safi Al-din Ardabili, was born in this city and also died in it. Also, the hot water springs of this city have a global reputation.

North of Iran

Continuing our Iran journey, we will travel on a spectacular road to reach our next destination. Our next destination is the beaches of the Caspian Sea. The Asalem- Khalkhal road is one of the most beautiful roads in Iran which can also be a tourist attraction itself.

The nature in the north of Iran is unique because of the Caspian Sea and Alborz mountain range. The ancient Hirakani jungles have a 40-billion-year history. They are some of the most valuable jungles in the world. They are also known as a natural museum. These jungles belong to the Jurassic era. Also, UNESCO has registered them.

Bandar-e-Anzali

The next part of our Iran journey is in Bandar-e Anzali. It is one of the most important economic and touristic cities in Iran. The international Anzali wetland, one of the greatest animal habitats is in this city, and we will visit it.

Rasht

We continue to explore Iran by visiting Rasht and its attractions. Try not to miss the food in the northern regions of Iran. Food is one of the symbols that resemble the culture of a region. Northern Iran is full of colorful foods with local sauces. The food in this region is famous in Iran. Also, we will visit Masuleh and spend one night in one of the local houses.

Qazvin

You can feel the change of nature on the way to Qazvin. It’s because of getting afar from Alborz and the humid weather around the Caspian Sea. We will visit Qazvin, the capital of the Safavid dynasty and enjoy its beautiful nature.

Hamedan

Next city we visit during our Iran journey is Hamedan. Hamedan is one of the metropolises in Iran on the hillside of Alvand mount. Ganjnameh complex dating back to Achaemenes era shows this city is ancient. While exploring the Alisadr Cave, you will face wonderful geological sceneries.

Kashan

After that, we will go to Kashan which is famous for being the origin of the Iranian culture. Kashan is one of the cities in Isfahan province and has many tourist attractions. Our Iran tour package includes staying the night in a traditional house in Kashan. Also, we will visit its monuments and unique deserts. So, in this Iran tour, you can enjoy what can be found in an Iran desert tour as well.

Isfahan

Our Iran journey continues by going to Isfahan which has many historical buildings. UNESCO has registered these building as the world heritage. Naqsh-e Jahan Square is one of the outstanding examples of these heritages.

Yazd

Next, we will visit Yazd and its famous wind wards. UNESCO has registered many places in this city because of its valuable historical architecture. Yazd is the center of the Zoroastrian community as well. Therefore, it has fire temples with light fires from many years ago.

Shiraz

At last, we will visit Shiraz. The name of this city is aligned with the name of Iranian poets. You can see the Iranian history and culture everywhere in this city. Historical gardens such as Eram and Narenjestan, tombs of the poets, and Vakil complex. These are only part of the attractions in this city. Visiting Persepolis and Pasargadae are some of the most important parts of our Iran tour. These monuments date back to 12000 years ago, and UNESCO has registered them.

Iran journey in depth At a Glance

Day 1: Arriving at Tehran.

Day 2: Tehran Travel; Tehran Sightseeing.

Day 3: Tabriz Travel; Flight to Tabriz, sightseeing in Tabriz, driving to Kandovan.

Day 4: Tabriz Travel; Kandovan Sightseeing, Tabriz Sightseeing, Sareyn Sightseeing.

Day 5: Ardabil Travel; Sareyn Sightseeing, Drive to Ardabil, Ardabil Sightseeing.

Day 6: Bandar-e Anzali Travel; Drive to Bandar-e Anzali, Masuleh Sightseeing.

Day 7: Bandar-e Anzali Travel; Masuleh Sightseeing, Bandar-e Anzali Sightseeing, Rasht Sightseeing.

Day 8: Rasht Travel, Rasht Sightseeing.

Day 9: Qazvin Travel; Drive to Qazvin.

Day 10: Qazvin Travel; Alamut Sightseeing, drive back to Qazvin.

Day 11: Qazvin Travel; Qazvin Sightseeing.

Day 12: Hamedan Travel; Drive to Hamedan, Hamedan Sightseeing.

Day 13: Hamedan Travel; Hamedan Sightseeing.

Day 14: Kashan Travel; Drive to Kashan, Kashan Sightseeing.

Day 15: Kashan Travel; Kashan Sightseeing, Abyaneh Sightseeing, drive to Isfahan.

Day 16: Isfahan Travel; Isfahan Sightseeing.

Day 17: Isfahan Travel; Isfahan Sightseeing, Drive to Yazd.

Day 18: Yazd Travel; Yazd Sightseeing.

Day 19: Yazd Travel; Yazd Sightseeing.

Day 20: Shiraz Travel; Drive to Shiraz.

Day 21: Shiraz Travel; Shiraz Sightseeig; Flight to Tehran/ the country of origin.

Place you visit in Iran journey in depth

TEHRAN

• Golestan Palace
• Bazaar
• Abgineh Museum
• Nature Bridge

Tabriz

• Azerbaijan Museum
• Blue Mosque
• Iron Museum
• Arg of Tabriz
• Elgoli
• Kandovan
• Bazaar
• Jameh Mosque of Tabriz

Ardabil

• Sareyn
• Sheikh Safi
• Shorabil Lake
• Asalem-Khalkhal Road

Masuleh

Bandar-e Anzali

• Anzali Lagoon
• The Pier

Rasht

• Rudkhan Castle
• Daily Market
• Rasht Municipality Square
• Sabjehmeydan Park
• Gilan Rural Heritage Museum

Rood Bar

• Rood Bar Dam
• Vistan Lake
• Espahbodan Cave

Manjil

Qazvin

• Alamut Castle
• Alamut Village
• Mendej Village
• Ali Qapu Palace
• Chehelsotun
• Aminiha Hosseiniyeh
• Qeysariyeh Bazaar
• Qajar Bath
• Caravanserai of Sa’d al-Saltaneh
• Kantour Church

Hamedan

• Alisadr Cave
• Mausoleum of Avicenna
• Mausoleum of Baba Taher
• Alavian Dome
• Tomb of Esther and Mordechai
• Hamam-e Qal’eh Museum of Anthropology
• Ecbatana

Kashan

• traditional houses (Abbasi house, Tabatabaei House)
• Fin Garden
• Fin Bath
• Tepe Sialk
• Abyaneh

Isfahan

• Naghsh-e Jahan Square
• Sheikh Lotf Allah Mosque
• Imam Mosque
• Ali Qapu Palace
• Chehel Sotoun
• Si-o-se-Pol Bridge
• Khaju Bridge
• Isfahan Grand Bazaar or Gheysarieh Bazaar
• Vank Cathedral

Yazd

• Fahaadaan
• Zurkhaneh
• Jameh Mosque of Yazd
• Zoroastrian Fire Temple
• Amir Chakhmagh Complex
• Water Museum
• Yazd Fire Temple
• Alexander’s Prison
• Dolat- abad Garden
• Lariha house

Shiraz

• Persepolis
• Pasargadae
• Naqsh-e Rostam
• Nasirolmolk Mosque
• Vakil Complex
• Karim Khan Citadel
• Tomb of Sa’di
• Tomb of Hafez

Iran journey in depth Itinerary

Day 1          Tehran

Welcome to Iran! The agents of Alibabatrek will pick you up at Imam Khomeini Airport. Then, we will transfer you to your hotel for having a rest.

Attention: The schedule for this day can be different according to your flight time.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Tehran
• Meals included: Welcome dinner

Day 2          Tehran

Our tour guide will be waiting for you at the hotel lobby at 9 A.M. on the first day of your Iran journey. We will start this day by visiting Golestan Palace. The palace dates back to almost 450 years ago, in the Qajar era. After that, we will visit Tehran Grand Bazaar near this palace. We will pass through the corridors of it and watch people pass. This Bazaar has been the beating heart of Tehran for many years.

We will have lunch at one of the restaurants in Bazaar which serves various amazing Iranian foods at 1:30. Next part of our Iran journey is visiting 30^th Tir street. We will be visiting the Bagh- Melli’ gate while walking in this historical street. Next, we will visit Abgineh museum. The building of this museum dates back to the Qajar era. You can see a collection of pottery and glass from different eras of Iran at this museum.

After that, we will visit Tabiat Bridge which is a symbol of modern Tehran. Therefore, visiting it is always part of the tours in Iran. We will spend some time on this bridge for taking photos and enjoying the view. Then, we will have dinner at one of the restaurants near the bridge and overnight Tehran in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Tehran
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3           Tabriz / Kandovan

On the morning of this day of Iran journey, we will have a flight to Tabriz.

After arriving at Tabriz, we will be visiting Azerbaijan museum. This museum is one of the most important museums in Iran. It’s because of the historical and artworks it has from before and during the Islamic era.

Then, we will be visiting the Kabud Mosque which is also known as the Blue Mosque. This mosque dates back to the 15^th century A.D. After two very strong earthquakes in the 18^th century A.D the domes of this mosque have been damaged. But still, having a look at this wonderful mosque will be a nice experience.

Next, we will be visiting the Iron Age Museum which is next to the Kabud Mosque. This archeological field includes cemetery and potteries from the Iron age. The corpses in this cemetery are buried shaped like a fetus. Also, the stuff buried with them is a sign of Mithraism in ancient Iran.

After that, we will go to a restaurant to have lunch.

Afternoon

After having lunch, we will go to Arg of Tabriz (Arg of Alishah) which dates back to the 14^th century A.D. This building used to have military uses. We will shortly visit the parts left of this building.

Then, we will go to Elgoli. This promenade is an old park, and we are going to have a walk in it. Also, we are going to sit a little and watch the amazing sceneries in this beautiful park.

After that, we will be heading towards Kandovan, a rocky village.

This village is one of the unique tourist attractions of Iran. Still, many live in this historical village. The houses in this village have a very special architecture. Volcanic activities have shaped the cliffs for thousands of years, and the houses are built in these cliffs.

Finally, we will have dinner and overnight Tabriz in a rural house. This hotel is carved in the cliffs just like other houses in this village. Spending the night in this amazing house will be an unforgettable experience.

• Accommodation: Rural House in Tabriz
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4          Kandovan / Tabriz / Sareyn

After having breakfast in Kandovan’s cliff hotel, we will visit the village more thoroughly. We are going to have a walk by the houses.

After visiting Kandovan, we will go back to Tabriz and have lunch there.

Then, we will be going to Tabriz grand Bazaar which is the largest covered bazaar in the world. UNESCO has registered this bazaar as a world heritage site. On our back from the bazaar, we will pay a short visit to the Jame Mosque of Tabriz. This mosque has always been the main mosque of Tabriz. The Grand Bazaar of Tabriz covers around it. After visiting all these places, we will leave Tabriz and go to Sareyn in Ardabil. Sareyn is a small town in Ardabil which is famous for its hot water springs.

Furthermore, the food in Ardabil is amazing and delightful. First, we will go back to our hotel to pick our swimsuits for going to the hot water springs. Then, we will go for having dinner in a traditional restaurant and have Kebab and Ash-e Dough.

Finally, we will go back to the hotel and overnight Sareyn in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Sareyn
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5          Sareyn / Ardabil

After having breakfast, we will leave the hotel to go sightseeing in the city and visit the nature surrounding it.

Then, we will go for visiting Kanzaq village which has caves dating back to Arcasid era. UNESCO has registered this village as a world heritage. After that, we will be going to a spring called Toorsh that has sparkling and sour water. Next, we will go to Chaghoor Choogar hills. These hills have rare species of reptiles such as chameleons and lizards. We will see them if we are lucky enough!

After arriving at Ardabil, we will go to Sheikh Safi Al-Din Ardabili’s shrine. This shrine is one of the historical places in Ardabil which UNESCO has registered as a world heritage. The tombs of Shah Ismail I, his wife and some other Sheikhs are in this shrine as well. What makes this shrine a unique place is that it has tens of rare artworks in different fields. Such as the tilings, Mogharnas, plasters, and inscriptions left from great calligraphers in the Safavid era, etc.

We will go to Shorabil lake for having dinner. This way, we can watch the amazing sceneries of nature during dinner. Then, we will go back to our hotel and overnight Ardabil in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Ardabil
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6           Asalem- Khalkhal road / Masuleh

Today, we will leave our hotel after having breakfast and go to Bandar-e Anzali. We have chosen Asalem- Khalkhal road for this trip. Asalem- Khalkhal road is a magnificent road with 70 km of length. This road is located in the northern region of Iran, and the specific climate of this region affects it. Therefore, it is rainy on most of the seasons. The height of this road near Khalkhal results in cold weather during summer. Traveling on this road will be a different experience for you. This road is always humid and misty because it has the Caspian Sea in its neighborhood.

We will have lunch on our way in a restaurant.

After arriving at the jungle, we will have a short excursion in it and walk by the beach of the Caspian Sea. Then, we will go to Masuleh and overnight in a local residence.

Masuleh is a historical town and is one of the flourishing areas with nice weather in the north of Iran. This town has cool summers and snowy winters. UNESCO has registered this village as a world heritage. The houses of this town have a unique architecture. On the mountain slope, the houses are built on each other. Looking from far away, it seems like the houses are stairs going from the top of the mount to the valley.

• Accommodation: Rural House in Masuleh
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7          Masuleh / Bandar-e Anzali / Rasht

On this day, we will start our visit after having breakfast in the morning.

We will take a walk in the allies of this village. The allies in this village are the roof of the houses below and gardens of the houses above. You can visit the small local shops that sell handcrafts in these allies.

We will have lunch in a restaurant. Because of the specific weather in the northern regions, the taste of food is very special and different. We recommend you to definitely try the local food.

After that, we will continue our trip going to Bandar-e Anzali.

Anzali lagoon is one of the most beautiful and important lagoons in the world. This lagoon has biodiversity and unique sceneries. Beautiful lotuses are floating everywhere on this lagoon. Everglades and sea turfs around this lagoon make eye-catching sceneries. This lagoon is home to migrant birds every year. Some call this lagoon heaven for those interested in birdwatching.

After visiting the lagoon, we will be heading towards the center of the city. Also, we will shortly visit the city and its fish bazaar. Next thing we do on our Iran journey is going to the harbor and watching the ships. Then, we will start going to Rasht. On our way, we will have lunch in a restaurant in Khomam city. After arriving at Rasht, we will overnight Rasht in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Rasht
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8          Rasht / Rudkhan Castle

On this day of our Iran journey, we will leave the hotel after having breakfast to visit Rudkhan castle.

Rudkhan Castle or Qaleh Rudkhan is a castle dating back to the Seljuq era. This castle is on the forest heights of the Rudkhan village in the Fuman province. There are forty watchtowers around the castle. These watchtowers have octagonal rooms with dome arches. There are slope holes all around the castle for pulling of molten material and archery. Therefore, it is said that no enemy has never managed to reach inside the castle or conquer it.

We will have lunch at this complex as well. After that, we will go back to Rasht to visit the daily market of Rasht. Local people sell their products in such bazaars. Every day, thousands of residents from cities and villages in Gilan and adjacent provinces come to these bazaars for trading. After that, we will go to the Municipality square. This square dates back to the Pahlavi era. Many of the residents of Rasht and the tourists come to this square at nights for having fun and excursion. The reconstruction design for this square has won the international price of the biggest architectonics competition in 2017. We will have dinner at this square.

After that, we visit the Sabzeh Meydan park. We will take a walk in this park. Then, we will go back to our hotel and overnight Rasht in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Rasht
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9          Qazvin / Vistan lake / Espahbodan cave / Manjil / Rudbar

After having breakfast on this day of our Iran journey, we will travel to Qazvin. Also, we will have stops to visit the attractions on our way. First, we will go to Gilan museum. This museum shows us a tangible image of traditional rural life. You can see the rural architecture, customs, handicrafts, and local arts closely in this museum.

After visiting this museum, we will continue our way. We will be heading towards Shah-e Shahidan village. The path of this village is a beautiful attraction. We will visit Espahbodan cave in this village. This cave dates back to the iron age and is one of the national heritage of Iran. Then, we will visit Vistan lake which has very interesting scenery. After that, we are going to have lunch in a restaurant. Continuing our Iran journey, we will reach Rudbar. We will have a stop beside the dam and the lake. This town is one of the important producers of olive. You can buy souvenirs and handcrafts in this town. Continuing our trip, we will pass by Manjil, the city of winds. This town is famous for its wind turbines. The reason for this intense airflow is a confluence of semi-arid weather with humid weather in this region. We will pass by the huge turbines and continue our way to Qazvin and the Alamut village.

We will have dinner on the way. After arriving at Alamut, we will spend the night in a rural house.

• Accommodation: Rural House in Alamut
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 10          Alamut / Ovan Lake / Alamut Castle / Qazvin

After having breakfast in the morning, we will be heading towards the Ovan lake. This lake feed from the small springs in the lake bed. The deepest part of this lake is almost 7 meters.

After that, we will go to Andaj village in the which lies in the rocks. Because of the volcanic activities of Alborz mountains and erosion due to the rains, this village has an eye-catching scenery. Next, we will have lunch and continue our trip. We will go to Alamut castle which used to be the headquarters of Hassan Sabah. This castle is one of the historic castles of Iran. On top of this castle, there is a rock. Therefore, it has a different length on the different parts. In the 13^th century, Holagu khan ordered the castle to be burned. It was ruined and changed into a place for exile and prison. Next, we will be going to Qazvin, have dinner and have a short walk in the city if you anyone is interested. We will overnight Qazvin in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Qazvin
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 11          Qazvin

We will spend this day of our Iran journey visiting Qazvin. Qazvin was the first capital in the Safavid era. First, we will go to Ali Qapu. The arch of Ali Qapu is a historical heritage and a tourist destination in Qazvin. This arch is located at the beginning of Sepah street. Sepah street is the first street in Iran. This building is the arch of one of the seven entrances to Safavid royal citadel. Actually, it was the southern door of this complex leading to the Shah street and square. It is the only door left of this complex.

Next thing we do in our Iran journey, is visiting Chehel Sotun Palace. It is the only castle left of the castles during the kingdom of Shah Tahmasb.

After that, we will visit Aminiha Hosseiniyeh which is one of the beautiful and luxury houses in Qazvin. The halls in this house have very beautiful sashes. These sashes uses to be elevated during reading Rhode ceremonies. This way, the hall turned into a big covered area with amazing mirrors.

Then, we will pay a visit to Qeysarieh bazaar in Qazvin which has a very interesting old architecture. This complex dates back to Safavid era and most of the current buildings in it date back to Qajar era.

Attention: according to the timing of the places we visit we will have lunch in a restaurant.

Afternoon

After that, we will go for visiting Hammam Qajar which is one of the oldest and greatest baths in Qazvin. This bath dates back to the 17^th century, and the Shah (king) ordered building it. The name it used to have at first was Hammam-e Shahi (the king’s bath). Later it turned into an anthropology museum. After that, we will go to Caravanserai of Sa’d al-Saltaneh. The most valuable part of this building is its four spins which has a big tiled arch above it.

The last visit of this day of our Iran journey is visiting Kantur church. A Russian company is Qazvin built this church during Naser al-Din Shah era. This church has a cruciform design, and its altar is towards the east.

Then, we will have dinner and overnight Qazvin in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Qazvin
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 12        Hamedan / Alisadr cave

We will begin this day of our Iran journey by leaving the hotel and going to Hamedan. Before arriving at Hamedan, we will change our path to Alisadr cave.

After arriving at the village, we will have lunch and rest a bit.

Then, we will go to Alisadr cave. Alisadr is one of the lagoon caves in Iran and is one of the few water caves in the world. Also, Alisadr has the longest boating path inside a cave in the world.

After visiting Alisadr, we will be heading towards Hamedan. We will have dinner in Hamedan and overnight Hamedan in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Hamedan
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 13          Hamedan

This day of our Iran journey belongs to visiting Hamedan, one of the oldest cities in Iran and the world.

First, we will visit the historical Ecbatana hill. Ecbatana is a historical hill that used to be the capital of the Medes and the summer capital of Achaemenes empire. This city is one of the few ancient cities that are still lively like Athens and Roma. One of the features of this ancient city is the architecture and the orderly map of it. The remaining in this city shows evidence of a water distribution system in this city.

Then, we will go to the Mausoleum of Baba Taher, one of the famous poets in Iran. This building has been ruined and rebuilt during various centuries. The original Mausoleum of Baba Taher dates back to Seljuks era.

After that, we will visit the Alavian Dome. This dome is one of the masterpieces of architecture and plaster after Islam in Hamedan. Also, it is one of the national heritages of Iran. This dome is a remaining of Seljuks era in the 13^th century A.D. First, Alavian family built this building as a mosque. By adding a cradle to it in the following years, it turned into the tomb of Alavian family members.

Next, on our Iran journey, we will go to the Tomb of Esther and Mordechai. This tomb is one of the most important Jewish pantheons in Iran and the world. This tomb is one of the national heritages of Iran. The existence of this pantheon is an important factor for the existence of the Jewish community in Hamedan. Mordechai is one of the descendants of prophet Jacob. After that, we will visit Hamam-e Qal’eh Museum of Anthropology.

We will have lunch in one of the restaurants in this complex.

Afternoon

After resting a bit, we will visit the Mausoleum of Avicenna. Avicenna used to be an Iranian doctor, mathematician, astronomer, chemist, psychologist, geographer, geologist, poet, logician, and philosopher. His works about Aristotelian philosophy and medical science are remarkable.

At last, we will go to Ganjnameh village. It is a touristic village which has monuments as well as natural and cultural attractions.

We will visit the inscriptions in Ganjnameh. These inscriptions are from Darius and Khashayarshah from Achaemenes era carved on the Alvand mount. Each inscription has three columns, and each column has 20 rows. The text is in ancient Persian, Elamite and Babylon.

After taking a walk, we will go back to our hotel. On our way, we will have dinner. We will overnight Hamedan in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Hamedan
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 14          Kashan

At 8 A.M we will leave our hotel and go to Kashan. We will have breakfast in a restaurant on our way on this day of our Iran journey. Kashan has interesting traditional and historic houses. These houses are the masterpieces of Iranian architecture.

After arriving at Kashan, we will be going to Fin Garden. This garden and its buildings date back to the Safavid era. The Fin bath in this complex is the place where Naser al-Din Shah killed his prime minister, Amir Kabir.

Then, we will go for visiting Abbasian historical house. It is one of the most beautiful historic houses in Iran. We will have lunch at the restaurant in this complex.

After resting a bit, we will continue visiting the historic houses. We will go to Tabatabei house which is a mixture of Iranian architecture and art. This house was built during the 19^th century and is also famous as “The Bride of Iranian Houses.”

Then, we will visit Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse, a unique example of the style and architecture in Iranian baths. The roof of this bath is a symbolic place of Kashan and the subject of many photographs.

Finally, we will have dinner at a cozy restaurant and overnight Kashan in traditional cozy accommodation.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Kashan
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 15          Kashan / Abyaneh / Isfahan

This day is going to be one of the most interesting parts of your Iran journey. First, we will visit the Tepe Sialk. Sialk is the name of the first civilization in central Iran and dates back to 5500 B.C. Sialk was a temple made of clay and terracotta. This archeological complex has a fascinating history that your tour guide will explain for you.

After that, we will be going to Abyaneh village. This village is 1500 years old. Abyaneh is a stepped village and is very attractive to the tourists. One of the significant features of this village is the red color of the walls because of its red mud. We will eat lunch at one of the traditional restaurants in Abyaneh. Then, we will have a walk in the gorgeous allies of Abyaneh.

Next part of our tour in Iran is visiting Isfahan which is famously known as “Half of The World.” Then, we will eat dinner at a restaurant. The Isfahan days of our Iran journey, are going to be busy and full of new experiences. Therefore, we will need to rest enough to continue our Persia travel. Then, we will overnight Isfahan in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Isfahan
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 16          Isfahan

Welcome to Isfahan! After having breakfast at our hotel, we will begin our excursion and visiting the landmarks of this wonderful city.

First, we will be visiting Naqsh-e Jahan square. This square spectacular square consists of many historical buildings: Shah Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Ali Qapu Grand Palace, and beautiful old bazaars. After visiting the mentioned places, we will have lunch at a traditional restaurant at 1 P.M. There is no doubt that you will enjoy the tasty Iranian food in this restaurant. We recommend you to try Biryani for lunch. Biryani is one of the toothsome traditional foods in Isfahan. It is made of lamb and white liver.

Next, we will go to see Chehel Sotun which is near Naqsh-e Jahan Square.  One of the significant features of this complex is gallant paintings on the roof of Bist Sotun. Also, the mirror artworks of Ayeeneh Hall and the entrance of Joloos Hall are breathtaking. The meaning of Chehel Sotun is “Forty Columns.” The reflection of 20 columns in the pool in front of this palace is the reason for its name.

Then, we will be heading towards Si-o-se-pol bridge to continue our Iran journey. Si-o-se-pol bridge is one of the masterpieces made in during Safavid era. This bridge is on the Zayanderud river. After that, we will visit Khaju Bridge which is on the east of Si-o-se-pol.

After that, we will have dinner at a restaurant and overnight Isfahan in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Isfahan
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 17         Isfahan / Yazd

We will continue visiting Isfahan on this day of our Iran journey. First, we will go to Jolfa Neighborhood. Mostly, the residents of this neighborhood are Christians of Isfahan. We will visit Vank Cathedral in this neighborhood. This cathedral is one of the historical churches in Isfahan. It was built during Shah Abbas the second’s era. Vank means monastery in Armenian.

Second, we visit Naqsh-e Jahan Square again for having lunch in there. You will have a couple of free hours at this part of our Iran journey. You can go shopping and buy some handmade souvenirs of Isfahan or watch the sights of this square.

Afterward, we will have a short return to the complex and leave Isfahan to visit Yazd. It takes almost 4 hours to get there. After arriving at Yazd, we will stay in a nice traditional hotel, have dinner and overnight Yazd in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Yazd
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 18          Yazd

Excursion in Yazd begins at 9 A.M. right after having breakfast. We will start by visiting Amir Chakhmaq Complex. This complex includes historical bazaar, mosques, and cisterns dating back to Teimoorian era. We will continue our Iran journey inside the Bazaar. After going through the narrow allies of Bazaar, we will enter Fahadaan Neighborhood. We will have a walk to see the historical texture of this city. Yazd is the first city in the world made of adobe. It is also the second historical city in the world. The historical texture of this city is a world heritage. Also, UNESCO has registered this city. The architecture of the houses in Yazd is a wonderful example of desert homes in the world. The building of these houses was according to the dry and hot weather. Therefore, Yazd is one of the most popular destinations of Iran journey.

We will continue our Iran journey by visiting the Jameh Mosque of Yazd. After walking a bit in Yazd, we will visit a historical house with a special Iranian architecture. Lariha house with a history of 150 years, is one of the popular tourist attractions in Yazd.

Afternoon

After having lunch, we will be heading towards the longest Qanat in the world. Qanat is an underground canal to transport water. Iran has the oldest and longest Qanats in the world.

After that, we will visit Alexander’s Prison which has been in Fahadaan Neighborhood for ten centuries. Stories are saying Alexander the Great built it during his attack to Iran. This building used to be a prison but later changed to a school called Ziyaeeyeh.

After visiting Alexander’s Prison, we will be visiting a cozy café for having some coffee and resting a bit. There, we can watch the sunset as well.

Then, we will go to a traditional gym called Zurkhaneh. There, we can watch the athletes doing sports. Ancient wrestling is an Iranian sport with a long history.

Finally, we will overnight Yazd in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Yazd
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 19          Yazd

After having breakfast, we will leave our hotel at 9 o’clock to continue visiting Yazd.

We will start by visiting a Zoroastrian crypt. A crypt or a tower of silence is a place where Zoroastrians put the corpses of the dead people. The corpses will be eaten by wild animals and birds. According to Zoroastrian beliefs, corpses impure the holy element of soil. Therefore, they do not bury their corpses.

After that, we will go to the fire temple of the Zoroastrians in Yazd. A fire temple is a holy place for Zoroastrians. Therefore, you should adhere to specific manners at this temple which your tour guide will explain for you.

At almost 1 P.M we will go to a restaurant for having lunch.

Afternoon

Then, we will be going to Dolatabad Garden. This garden is one of the oldest gardens in Yazd. UNESCO has registered this garden as a world heritage. This garden is hundreds of years old and is 70000 meters. It includes buildings, pools, and fountains.

Then, we will go to the Water Museum which is Kolahdooz house. The lower floor of this house has two 2000 years old Qanats. These Qanats are still working.

After that, we will return to our hotel. You will have free time for a few hours in this part of your Iran journey. Then, we will have dinner at a traditional restaurant and overnight Yazd in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Yazd
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 20          Shiraz / Pasargadae / Naqsh-e Rostam / Persepolis

At 8 o’clock in the morning, we will start traveling to Shiraz. It takes 3 hours to arrive at Pasargadae, Cyrus the Great’s tomb. Then, we will go to Naqsh-e Rostam. After that, we will visit Ka’be-ye Zartosht.

This ancient area has antiques left from Elam, Achaemenes and Sassanid’s era. This area has been constantly noted since 1200 B.C to 625 A.D. Therefore; you can find the tombs of 4 of the Achaemenes kings. Also, it has rock reliefs from the Sasanid era and an Elamite rock relief in Naqsh-e Rostam.

We will have lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, we will be heading towards Persepolis.

At this point in our Iran journey, we will start visiting the palaces in this sight. In this historical city, there is a palace called Persepolis. Cyrus the Great, Khashayar shah and Ardeshir the first built this palace. It used to be a prosperous city for 200 years. UNESCO registered this site as a world heritage.

Next part of our Iran journey is going to Shiraz. We will have dinner at a traditional restaurant and overnight Shiraz in the hotel.

• Accommodation: Hotel (4-star) in Shiraz
• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 21           Shiraz

Welcome to Shiraz! On this day of our Iran journey, your tour guide will be waiting for you at the hotel lobby at 9 A.M.

You will start the 10th day of your Persia tour by visiting Nasir-Ol-Molk Mosque. This mosque is one of the most valuable mosques in Iran. Colorful glasses are used in building the windows of this mosque. These windows will have a breathtaking view when the sun shines. Because of the pink tiles used in building this mosque, many call it the Pink Mosque.

After that, we will visit Narenjestan Ghavam Garden. This garden was built during the ruling of Naser al-din Shah, t. There are many buildings and gardens in this complex.

Then, we will go to Vakil Mosque complex which includes the Vakil mosque and Vakil Bath. During visiting this complex, we will definitely pay a visit to Saray-e Moshir. You can find many Iranian handcrafts in this place.

At almost 1 o’clock, we will have lunch at this complex and then continue our excursion in Vakil complex. After that, we will be going to Arg of Karim Khan. Karim Khan used to live in this place. This building has a mixture of residential and martial architecture.

Thereafter, we will visit the tombs of Hafez and Saadi who are the most famous Iranian poets. This way we can have a poetical end for visiting Shiraz! This is the end of our journey. 

Attention: The schedule for this day can be different according to your flight time. You have two options for departure airport; Shiraz International Airport or Imam Khomeini International Airport. If you choose Imam Khomeini Airport you would have a domestic flight from Shiraz to Tehran at the end of day 21. 

• Accommodation: –
• Meals included: Breakfast

Iran journey in depth Trip Services

• All transfers by private Air-co Cars
• Domestic flight from Tehran to Tabriz
• Domestic flight from Shiraz to Tehran
• All accommodations, 17 nights at 4-star hotels, 3 nights in Rural House
• Breakfast included
• Welcoming Dinner
• Entrance fees for the monuments
• An expert English-speaking tour guide
• Travel insurance

Iran journey in depth Map