Iran in 15-Days: Frim Ancient Persia to Modern Iran

Go, Find,Explore Iran

Travel Style: Combo Tour
Tour length: 15 Days
Age Range: 18 to 39
Tour Code: co20
Operated in English
10%
Price
Price per day $82
From
$1376 $1239

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

Itinerary

Between Mesopotamia and Asia, Iran is an extensive mountainous plateau with an average altitude of 1000 meters. Iran isn’t a singular country; it unites several within its borders. It has undergone multiple lifetimes, each still visible: mosques coexist with temples from ancient times, provinces where time has stood still share the same calendar with cities open to the West, and remnants of monarchy neighbor symbols of the Islamic Republic.

Explore the exceptional places such as the Persian treasures of Persepolis and Pasargadae, the masterpieces of Islamic architecture in Isfahan, and the museums and palaces of Tehran.

Day 1, Arrival in Tehran

Arrival at Tehran Airport, welcomed by your guide, and transfer to the hotel.

Day 2, Shiraz

Visit the city of Tehran, the metropolis and the capital of modern Iran. Explore the Golestan Palace complex and the Grand Bazaar. Visit key museums such as the Archaeological Museum, the first museum in Iran, the Glass and Ceramic Museum with its extraordinary collection, and, if open, the Jewelry Museum and the Carpet Museum. Fly to Shiraz. Overnight in Shiraz.

Day 3, Persepolis - Shiraz

In the morning, visit Persepolis, the Spring Palace built by Darius I in 518 BC, to celebrate the New Year's festivities. Then, visit Naqsh-e Rostam. In the afternoon, explore the city of Shiraz: the imposing fortress of Karim Khan, the mosque and bazaar of Vakil, and the tomb of Hafez. Overnight in Shiraz.

Day 4, Shiraz - Bishapur

In the morning, continue exploring the city of Shiraz—first, the Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque, known as the Pink Mosque, then the Narenjestan Garden. At noon, depart for Kazerun to discover the Bishapur site, renowned for its Sassanian-era bas-reliefs. Overnight in Shiraz.

Day 5, Shiraz - Pasargadae - Zeinodin

Depart in the morning towards Zeinodin. On the way, visit Pasargadae, the first capital of the Achaemenids. Overnight at the Zeinodin caravanserai.

Day 6, Zeinodin - Yazd (1240 m altitude)

In the morning, stroll around the Zeinodin caravanserai. Caravanserais were "inns" that provided shelter, food, and protection for merchants traveling through the country. At noon, depart for Yazd. On the way, visit the village of Cham, a small Zoroastrian village with a sacred cypress tree dating back 3500 years. Visit a nearby Tower of Silence where Zoroastrians exposed their deceased to vultures. Overnight in a hotel in Yazd.

Day 7, Yazd

Explore the city founded under the Sassanids. The morning is dedicated to Zoroastrian worship, starting with the worship center housing the "sacred fire" maintained for 1500 years in the Fire Temple called Atashkade. Then, the Dakhma, the "Towers of Silence," stood in the desert. In the afternoon, visit the Friday Mosque, Mirchaqmaq Square, a beautiful medieval square, and explore the old quarters and the bazaar. Overnight in Yazd.

Day 8, Yazd - Meybod - Chak Chak - Kharanagh Caravanserai

In the morning, depart for the village of Kharanagh. On the way, stop in Meybod to visit a Sassanian citadel and an icehouse showcasing the everyday ingenuity of a people constantly battling a harsh environment. At noon, discover Kharanagh, home to a caravanserai and a citadel dating back 3000 years. After lunch, head to the Chak Chak fire temple, nestled in impressive cliffs, where Zoroastrians sought refuge after the Arabs conquered their oasis. Overnight at the Kharanagh caravanserai.

Day 9, Kharanagh - Mesr - Farahzad

In the morning, depart for the Mesr Desert. On the way, explore the citadel of Beyazieh, then continue to the center of the Dasht-e Kavir desert and the remote Mesr oasis surrounded by magnificent dunes. Take a long walk on the dunes. Overnight with a local host in a guesthouse in the village of Farahzad, on the edge of the Mesr Desert.

Day 10, Farahzad - Nain - Isfahan

In the morning, continue the journey to the center of Iran, along the vast Dasht-e Kavir desert. Stop in Nain to visit the ancient Abbasid-era Friday Mosque. Overnight in a hotel in Isfahan.

Day 11, Isfahan

Explore one of the most picturesque cities in the world. Visit the Armenian Quarter with its churches and cathedrals. See the famous Si-o-seh Pol Bridge (Bridge of Thirty-Three Arches) and the Khaju Bridge with its magnificent architecture. Explore the Friday Mosque and the bustling bazaar, and return to the hotel in the late afternoon for dinner.

Day 12: Isfahan

Continue the city tour and explore its rich heritage. Visit the Palace of Forty Columns, the magnificent Royal Square dominated by the historic shops of the Grand Bazaar. Explore the Imam Mosque and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, both masterpieces showcasing Persian Islamic architecture, decoration, and art. Discover the Ali Qapu Palace and other monuments that Abbas Shah and his Safavid successors commissioned. Overnight in Isfahan.

Day 13, Isfahan - Matin Abad

In the morning, depart for Matin Abad, a village 130 km from Isfahan. The morning and afternoon are dedicated to walks in the desert and the dunes, offering breathtaking landscapes. Overnight at the Matin Abad caravanserai.

Day 14, Matin Abad– Kashan- Tehran

In the morning, depart for Kashan, renowned for its bioclimatic houses. Along the way, make a stop to leisurely stroll through the Fin Garden, its pavilions, and its intricate hydraulic system reminiscent of the water temples from the Sassanian era. This garden is the perfect example of Persian gardens, intended to represent earthly paradise. Next, explore the Tabatabai House, the Grand Bazaar, and the Agha Bozorg Madrasa. Arrive in Tehran in the evening. Dinner and overnight stay at a Tehran hotel.

Day 15, Tehran

Transfer to Imam Khomeini Airport in Tehran in the morning for the return 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.
2 Reviews About This Tour

  • Shin says:
    Fantastic itinerary, affordable price, tour leader is very professional and knowledgeable, unforgettable experiences…
  • Kevin Tang says:
    It was a great trip, well organized by Kental Travel. The tour leader and coach driver were awesome! Sanam gave nice intro and some history of each city and area we traveled through, which I really enjoyed and appreciated. She was very concise, consistent and helpful to each and everyone on the tour.