IR
Tehran
Iran's sprawling capital beneath the Alborz peaks
Iran's sprawling capital beneath the Alborz peaks
The UNESCO-listed royal complex of the Qajar dynasty dazzles with mirrored halls, painted tilework, marble thrones and gardens, a lavish showcase of 19th-century Persian art.
💡 Buy separate tickets for the individual palace halls that interest you.
Tehran’s sprawling covered bazaar is a labyrinth of alleys trading carpets, spices, gold, copper and everything else, the commercial and social heart of the old city.
💡 Go with time to get lost; stop for tea and traditional lunch.
The country’s premier museum traces Persian civilisation from prehistory through the Achaemenid and Sassanid empires, with treasures echoing the glories of Persepolis.
💡 A great primer before visiting Iran’s ancient sites.
One of the world’s tallest towers, Milad rises over western Tehran with observation decks giving panoramic views across the immense city to the mountains.
💡 Visit on a clear day for views to the Alborz range.
An award-winning curving pedestrian bridge connects two parks over a highway, a modern icon and favourite gathering spot with cafes and city views.
💡 Come at sunset when locals gather and the city lights up.
Persian cuisine is one of the world’s great food traditions. In Tehran, savour fragrant kababs with saffron rice, rich stews (khoresh) like ghormeh sabzi and fesenjan, and tahdig, the prized crispy rice. The city has everything from humble kababis to stylish modern Persian restaurants and traditional teahouses. Finish with saffron-and-rosewater ice cream and a glass of sweet tea; note that alcohol is prohibited.
Tour the opulent Golestan Palace, dive into the Grand Bazaar for lunch and carpets, and visit the National Museum.
See the crown jewels, ride up Milad Tower for the views, and end at Tabiat Bridge as the city lights come on.
Entry requirements and travel advisories for Iran change; verify the latest guidance and visa rules before booking.
International cards do not work in Iran; bring enough foreign cash to exchange, or use a local tourist debit card.
Women must wear a headscarf and modest clothing in public; men should avoid shorts.
Tehran’s metro is cheap and useful; ride apps like Snapp work well and avoid fare haggling.
Capital Tehran, the domes of Isfahan, poetic Shiraz, desert Yazd and ancient Persepolis — the great highlights of Persia.