Iran

Iran, formerly known as Persia, is a land of striking natural beauty, breathtaking tiled mosques, and one of the world's oldest continuous civilizations. From the turquoise domes of Isfahan to the ancient ruins of Persepolis, from the bustling bazaars of Tehran to the stark deserts of Yazd, Iran offers travellers an extraordinary depth of cultural and historical experience. The country's rich artistic heritage spans millennia, and Persian influence has shaped art, architecture, and literature across Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Indian Subcontinent.

Despite its many attractions, Iran remains an underexplored destination due to its complex political situation. Since early 2026, many governments have advised against travel to the country. However, for those who do visit, the warmth and hospitality of the Iranian people is legendary. The country is a melting pot of diverse ethnic groups—including Persians, Azerbaijanis, Kurds, Baluchis, and Arabs—each contributing their own traditions to the national tapestry.

Iran is a theocratic Islamic republic governed by Ja'fari Shia Islam, and visitors should be prepared to observe local laws regarding dress and behaviour. That said, Iran rewards the adventurous traveller with unforgettable experiences, exceptional cuisine, and a profound sense of history that stretches from the Stone Age to the present day.

Iran is a vast country spanning approximately 1.65 million square kilometres, making it the second-largest country in the Middle East and the 17th largest in the world. Its terrain is dominated by a high central plateau flanked by mountain ranges—the Zagros in the west and the Alborz in the north, home to Mount Damavand (5,610 m), the highest peak in the Middle East. The country borders the Caspian Sea to the north, the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman to the south, and shares land borders with Iraq, Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.

Climate varies dramatically by region. The central plateau around Tehran and Isfahan experiences hot, dry summers and cold winters. The Caspian coastal strip is subtropical and lush, receiving heavy rainfall. The Persian Gulf region is extremely hot and humid, with summer temperatures exceeding 45°C. The eastern and southeastern desert regions (the Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut) are among the hottest and driest places on Earth. Northwestern Iran around Tabriz has a continental climate with harsh winters.

The best time to visit Iran is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when temperatures are mild across most of the country. March is particularly beautiful, coinciding with Nowruz (Persian New Year) celebrations, though this is peak domestic travel season and prices rise. October and November offer pleasant weather for exploring Isfahan, Shiraz, and the desert cities of Yazd and Kerman.

Summer (June–August) brings extreme heat to the south and central regions (35–45°C), but the mountainous northwest and Caspian coast remain comfortable. Winter (December–February) is ideal for skiing at resorts like Dizin, north of Tehran, though the central plateau can be bitterly cold.

Key festivals include Nowruz (20–21 March), marking the Persian New Year with nationwide celebrations; Ramadan, when restaurants are closed during daylight hours; and Ashura (a Shia commemoration involving processions and mourning ceremonies). The Fajr International Film Festival in February and the Isfahan International Children's Film Festival are notable cultural events.

Iran requires most foreign nationals to obtain a visa before travel. Citizens of approximately 15 countries, including Turkey, Malaysia, Syria, and several Central Asian nations, can enter visa-free for limited periods. Many other nationalities can apply for an e-visa through Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal (e_visa.mfa.ir), which is typically processed within 5–10 business days. Visa on arrival is available at major international airports for citizens of some 60 countries, valid for 15–30 days.

US, UK, and Canadian passport holders face additional restrictions and typically must travel with a pre-approved tour or guide. Israeli passport holders are not admitted, and those with Israeli stamps may be denied entry. All women, regardless of nationality, must wear a headscarf in passport photos and upon arrival.

Note: Visa requirements change frequently, especially given the current political situation. Always verify with the nearest Iranian embassy well before travel.

The official currency is the Iranian Rial (IRR), though prices are often quoted in tomans (one toman = 10 rials). Due to inflation, common denominations run into millions. As of early 2026, the unofficial exchange rate is approximately 500,000–600,000 IRR per 1 USD, though rates fluctuate significantly.

Iran is extremely affordable for foreign visitors. A budget traveller can get by on approximately 2,000,000–3,000,000 IRR (roughly $4–6 USD) per day, covering basic accommodation, meals, and local transport. Mid-range budgets run 5,000,000–10,000,000 IRR ($10–20 USD) daily, while luxury travellers can expect to spend 20,000,000+ IRR ($40+ USD) per day at high-end hotels.

Important: International credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) do NOT work in Iran due to banking sanctions. Bring sufficient cash (USD or EUR in clean, crisp bills) and exchange at official exchange offices (sarafi). ATMs only work with Iranian bank cards. Tipping is not expected but appreciated; rounding up taxi fares and leaving 10% at restaurants is customary.

Iran's main international gateway is Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA), located 30 km south of Tehran, serving most international carriers. Mehrabad Airport (THR) handles domestic flights and limited regional routes. Other international airports include Shiraz (SYZ), Isfahan (IFN), Mashhad (MHD), and Tabriz (TBZ), with connections to Gulf states, Turkey, and Central Asia.

Major airlines serving Iran include Iran Air, Mahan Air, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Flydubai. Overland entry is possible from Turkey (Bazargan border), Armenia (Norduz), Azerbaijan (Astara and Jolfa), Turkmenistan (Sarakhs and Bajgiran), Afghanistan (Islam Qala/Dogharoun), and Pakistan (Taftan/Mirjaveh). Ferry services operate between Bandar Abbas and Sharjah/UAE across the Persian Gulf.

Domestic flights are affordable and connect major cities through carriers like Iran Air, Mahan Air, Iran Aseman Airlines, and Kish Air. The rail network, operated by Raja Rail, connects Tehran with Isfahan, Shiraz, Mashhad, Tabriz, and Yazd with comfortable sleeper trains.

The intercity bus network is extensive, reliable, and remarkably cheap, with VIP (VIP) bus services offering reclining seats on major routes. Shared taxis (savari) are common for shorter inter-city distances. Within cities, metered taxis are available, and ride-hailing apps Snapp and Tap30 function similarly to Uber.

Common scams: Unofficial money changers offering poor rates; taxi drivers refusing to use meters; carpet shop owners pressuring tourists into purchases. Always agree on prices beforehand and use official exchange offices.

Iran is an Islamic theocracy, and all visitors must observe local laws and customs. Dress code is mandatory: women must wear a headscarf (hijab) covering their hair and loose-fitting clothing covering arms and legs in public. Men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts. This applies to everyone, regardless of religion or nationality.

Greetings are warm and formal—handshakes are common between men, but men should wait for a woman to extend her hand first. Ta'arof (ritual politeness) is central to Iranian culture; offers may be made out of courtesy and should be politely declined at first. Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional establishments. Photography of military installations, government buildings, and (in some cases) women without hijab is prohibited.

The Iranian people are exceptionally hospitable to foreigners. It is common to be invited to homes for tea or meals. Accept graciously. Alcohol is strictly prohibited, and possession can result in severe penalties. During Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is forbidden by law.

Iran's safety situation is complex and subject to rapid change. Since February 2026, Israel and the United States have conducted military operations against targets in Iran, and many Western governments advise against all travel. Travellers already in the country are advised to register with their embassy and maintain awareness of air raid shelter locations.

When the security situation is stable, Iran generally has low crime rates against tourists, and violent crime targeting foreigners is rare. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Border regions with Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan should be avoided due to security concerns. The province of Sistan and Baluchestan has experienced periodic instability.

Tap water is generally safe in major cities but stick to bottled water in rural areas. No specific vaccinations are required, but hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine immunisations are recommended. Medical care is adequate in Tehran and major cities but limited in rural areas. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly advised.

• Central Iran – The traveller's heartland, home to Tehran, Isfahan, Qom, and Yazd, with the country's finest architecture and most-visited historical sites.
• Fars Province (Persian Gulf Region) – Centred on Shiraz, gateway to Persepolis and the ancient Achaemenid heartland, with access to Persian Gulf islands like Kish and Qeshm.
• Khorasan – Eastern Iran's cultural hub, centred on Mashhad, Iran's holiest city, and gateway to Central Asia.
• Iranian Azerbaijan – The mountainous northwest around Tabriz, home to the Azeri ethnic minority and the country's access point to the Caucasus.
• Caspian Iran – The lush, subtropical northern coast with forested mountains, rice paddies, and a completely different climate from the rest of the country.
• Western Iran (including Kurdistan) – A mountainous region home to Kurdish and Arab minorities, with significant archaeological sites including Susa and Bisotun.
• Kerman & the Eastern Desert – The gateway to Iran's spectacular desert landscapes, including the Kaluts and the ancient citadel of Bam.
• Sistan and Baluchestan – Iran's most remote and poorest province, home to the Baloch minority, with archaeological sites at Shahr-e Sukhteh.

• Isfahan – A former capital with stunning Islamic architecture, the iconic Naqsh-e Jahan Square, tree-lined boulevards, and the famous saying "Isfahan is half the world."
• Shiraz – City of poets (Hafiz and Sa'di), gardens, and roses; the nearest major city to the ancient ruins of Persepolis.
• Tehran – The vibrant capital offering world-class museums (National Museum, Golestan Palace, Treasury of National Jewels), bustling bazaars, and a dynamic modern culture.
• Yazd – A remote desert city famous for its wind-towers (badgirs), Zoroastrian fire temples, and unique mud-brick architecture.
• Tabriz – Historic former capital with one of the world's largest covered bazaars and access to the scenic Kandovan village.
• Mashhad – The holiest city in Iran, home to the massive shrine of Imam Reza, attracting millions of Shia pilgrims annually.
• Persepolis – The magnificent ruins of the Achaemenid Empire's ceremonial capital, built over 2,500 years ago and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Kashan – A charming oasis city with exquisite traditional merchant houses, the Fin Garden, and a renowned rosewater festival.
• Kerman – Gateway to the Kaluts desert formations, the ancient citadel of Bam (UNESCO site), and the Lut Desert.
• Qeshm Island – The Persian Gulf's largest island, famous for its Hara mangrove forests, the Chahkooh Canyon, and Iran's first UNESCO Global Geopark.
• Kish Island – A free-trade zone resort island with shopping malls, beaches, and Iran's first marina.
• Alamut Valley – Near Qazvin, home to the legendary Assassin castles and spectacular mountain hiking.