Bandar Abbas

Bandar Abbas is the capital of Hormozgan Province and Iran's most important port city on the Persian Gulf. It has a hot and humid climate, with extreme summer heat. The city is the main maritime gateway for Iranian trade and has a long history as a trading port dating to the Safavid era. The population reflects its trading history, with diverse ethnic influences.

By Plane

Bandar Abbas International Airport (BND) has domestic flights from Tehran, Mashhad, Shiraz, and Dubai (international).

By Train

No railway. Buses and taxis are the main land connections.

By Car / Road

Connected by highway to Shiraz (480 km, 5 hr) and Tehran (1,300 km, 12 hr). Frequent buses from all major cities.

Taxis, ride-hailing apps (Snapp, Tapsi), and buses. The city is spread out.

• Bandar Abbas Bazaar — A vibrant traditional market.
• Hormozgan Museum — Housed in a historic Qajar building.
• Golshan Garden — A historic Persian garden.
• Persian Gulf coastline — Beaches and waterfront promenades.
• Indian Temple — A historic Hindu temple from the colonial trading era.
• Portuguese Fort (Fort of Our Lady of the Conception) — Remains of a 16th-century Portuguese fort.

Take a boat trip to Hormuz Island or Qeshm Island. Visit the fish market. Enjoy fresh seafood.

Seafood dominates — grilled fish, shrimp, and traditional Gulf dishes like ghelyan mahi (spiced fish). The local cuisine also features dates and citrus.

Fresh fruit juices and coconut water. Bottled water is essential in the heat.

• Budget: Hotels near the bazaar and port.
• Mid-range: Several hotels catering to business travellers.
• Upscale: Homa Hotel and other modern hotels.

Bandar Abbas is known for handicrafts including embroidered clothing (kurd-i khaf), palm-leaf products, and jewellery. Spices and dried seafood are also popular.

• Qeshm Island (30 min by ferry) — UNESCO Geopark, mangroves, and Hara forests.
• Hormuz Island (40 min by ferry) — Rainbow-coloured hills and Portuguese fort.
• Kish Island (by flight or ferry) — Free-trade zone resort island.
• Minab (90 km east) — Traditional market and fishing port.