12 Days, Visit the most profound historical and cultural layers of Iran.

Focus On What Makes You Different.

Travel Style: Historical & Cultural
Tour length: 12 Days
Age Range: 1 to 40
Tour Code: hi4
Operated in English
30%
Price
Price per day $83
From
$1427 $999

The tour is available. You can customize it as you wish.

Itinerary

This program lets you discover the desert cities once you stop on the caravan route. It opened the doors to caravanserais and bazaars that welcomed merchants. It’s essential as it presents the country’s cultural and historical richness: the pre-Islamic art and architecture, grand and majestic, and refined Islamic artistic treasures. From Shiraz to Tehran, passing by the Dasht-e Kavir and Lut deserts, you will visit Shiraz – Persepolis – Pasargadae – Kerman – Rayen – Mahan – Yazd – Meybod – Nain – Isfahan – Kashan – Tehran in 12 days.

To learn more about the cities and towers, visit our website, www.kentaltravel.com. Please note that the program for the first and last day may change depending on international flights.

Day 1, Shiraz

Arrival at Shiraz airport, greeted by your guide and transferred to the hotel.

Day 2, Shiraz

Explore the city of Shiraz, famous for its gardens and mild climate. Visit landmarks such as the Pink Mosque, also known as Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, the bazaar, Moshir Caravanserai, Vakil Complex (mosque, bathhouse, bazaar), Eram Garden, and Karim Khan Citadel. Enjoy the splendid panoramic view of the city from the Quran Gate in the evening. Overnight in Shiraz.

Day 3, Shiraz

The day is dedicated to visiting the most significant heritage of the Achaemenid Empire: Persepolis, the Achaemenid necropolis at Naqsh-e Rostam, and finally, Pasargadae, the first capital of the Achaemenid Empire, an important site to explore the origins and heart of Persia. Overnight in Shiraz.

Day 4, Kerman

Departure for the caravan city of Kerman On the way, experience four different landscapes of the central Iranian plateau: salt lake, mountains, desert, and garden-covered plains. Visit a hunting palace from the Sasanian era in Sarvestan. Overnight in Kerman.

Day 5, Kerman

In the morning, we excursion to Mahan and Rayen. In Mahan, explore the Prince's Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a representative example of Persian gardens, and the funerary complex with the blue dome of the 16th-century Sufi saint Nematollah Vali. Continue the visits with the astonishing fortified citadel of Rayen, a model of desert citadel architecture built during the Sassanian period in the 4th century AD. Return to Kerman to visit the Ganjali Khan Complex, illustrating the Islamic urban plan with its bazaar, caravanserai, bathhouse, and mosque. Overnight in Kerman.

Day 6, Yazd

Depart in the morning for Yazd. On the way, visit the Zeinoddin Caravanserai, described by Marco Polo. .In the afternoon, we arrive in the ancient city of Yazd, which is home to a large community of Zoroastrian followers. Visit the Zoroastrian "sacred fire," preserved and fueled for nearly 1500 years, the Fahadan neighbourhood, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Friday Mosque, and the Amir Chakhmaq Complex. Overnight in Yazd.

Day 7, Isfahan

Depart in the morning for Isfahan. On the way, visit the Narin Qaleh Citadel in the ancient city of Meibod, a testament to a pre-Islamic past about which much remains unknown. This citadel resembles the great Bam Citadel, which was unfortunately destroyed by an earthquake. Continue the day with a visit to the ancient city of Nain, including its 1000-year-old Friday Mosque. Overnight in Isfahan.

Day 8, Isfahan

Visit Isfahan, one of the most picturesque cities in the world, which according to a Persian saying, is "half the world." Visit the Grand Friday Mosque, considered an encyclopedia of mosque architecture in Iran. Discover the Armenian quarter of the city and its Vank Cathedral. In the afternoon, walk along the banks of the Zayandehrud River, the only river in the central Iranian plateau, and explore the famous bridges of Thirty-three Arches and Khaju, dating back to the 17th century. Overnight in Isfahan.

Day 9, Isfahan

The morning is dedicated to further exploring the city: the Forty Columns Pavilion, the Royal Square, also known as "Image of the World" (Naghsh-e Jahan), and its surrounding monuments: Imam Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and Ali Qapu Palace. Enjoy free time in the late afternoon at the Grand Bazaar. Overnight in Isfahan.

Day 10, Tehran

Depart for Tehran. Stop in the city of Kashan, famous for its 19th-century bioclimatic houses. Visit one of them, the Tabatabai House, a well-preserved example of the beautiful mansions owned by wealthy merchants of that era. Visit the Grand Bazaar, Amin al-Dowleh Caravanserai, and stroll through the Fin Garden, a perfect model of renowned Persian gardens with pavilions and a sophisticated hydraulic system. Overnight in Tehran.

Day 11, Tehran

Visit the city of Tehran, the country's administrative, political, and economic capital. Explore the main museums, such as the Archaeological Museum, showcasing exhibitions tracing the country's history, the Glass and Ceramic Museum with its extraordinary collection of glass and pottery; the Golestan Palace complex; and the bazaar.

Day 12, Tehran - Departure

Transfer to the airport in the morning for your departure flight.

Places You'll See

What's Included

Accommodation

4-star and 5-star hotels, traditional houses.

Flights

Domestic flights

Guide

Service of an experienced English-speaking guide.

Meals

Buffet breakfast at the hotel, lunch, and dinner in typical Iranian restaurants.

Transportation

In a recent, air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver.

Entrance tickets

Entrance tickets to museums and archaeological sites mentioned in the program.

Map

Good to Know

Visa Requirements

Check visa requirements well in advance and ensure you have all necessary documentation. Iran typically requires travelers to obtain a visa in advance, although some nationalities may be eligible for a visa on arrival.

Dress Code

Respect the local culture by dressing modestly, especially for women. For women, this usually means wearing a headscarf, long sleeves, and loose-fitting clothing that covers the body.

Language

Learn a few basic phrases in Persian (Farsi). While many Iranians speak English, especially in tourist areas, knowing some Persian will enhance your experience and interactions with locals.

Currency

The official currency of Iran is the Iranian Rial (IRR). It's advisable to carry cash as international credit and debit cards are not widely accepted due to banking restrictions. Be aware of the current exchange rate and exchange money at official exchange offices or banks.

Photography

While photography is generally allowed in tourist areas, it's best to ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially women. Avoid taking photos of sensitive government buildings or military installations.

Transportation

Iran has an extensive network of buses, trains, and domestic flights, making it relatively easy to travel between cities. Consider booking tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Safety

Iran is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, exercise normal precautions and stay updated on current events. Follow local news and government advisories.
1 Review About This Tour

  • warren30 says:
    Amazing trip, well worth the money. You learn so much about the region, history and food. Brilliant people and the hospitality is first class.