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Tehran - - - Kashan - Yazd - Shiraz - Isfahan

15-Day Persian Expedition: Iran's Top Historical Sites

EducationalFood & CulinaryIn-depth CultrulShopping
Travel Style: Historical & Cultural
Tour length: 15 Days
Age Range: 1 to 40
Tour Code: hi05
Operated in English
15%
Price
Price per day $84
From
$1489 $1266

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

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Itinerary

This program introduces the remnants of Achaemenid palaces, ancient rock reliefs, Zoroastrian temples, and the major contributions of Iranians to the Muslim world, such as caravanserais, bazaars, environmentally friendly houses, modest brick mosques, and opulent mosques covered in Persian tiles that have been replicated elsewhere in the world. This program promotes the visit of Tehran-Zanjan-Hamadan-Kermanshah-Kashan-Yazd-Shiraz-Isfahan-Abyaneh-Tehran in 15 days.

To learn more about the cities and tours mentioned above, please visit our website,  www.kentaltravel.com. Please note that the program of the first and last day may change depending on international flight schedules.

Day 1, Tehran

Arrival at Imam Khomeini Airport. Greeted by your guide and transfer to the hotel.

Day 2, Tehran

A day dedicated to exploring the city of Tehran. As the current administrative and political capital, the city has a relatively recent history. Visit the most important museums, such as the Golestan Palace complex from the 19th century, the Archaeological Museum with rich exhibitions tracing the country's history, the National Jewelry Museum (Mouzeh-ye Javaherat-e Melli) housing unique jewels and gems from throughout history, now part of Iran's national heritage, and the Grand Bazaar. Overnight in Tehran.

Day 3, Zanjan

In the morning, depart for the city of Zanjan. En route, visit the Dome of Soltaniyeh, the ancient capital of the Ilkhanid Mongols in the 14th century, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. Upon arrival in Zanjan, explore the Ethnology Museum located in a formerly covered laundry (Rakhtshuykhaneh), and then visit the city's ancient bazaar. Overnight in Zanjan.

Day 4, Hamadan

In the morning, depart for Hamadan. On the way, visit the spectacular Takht-e Soleiman (Throne of Solomon) built on an ancient volcano; This site is one of the most sacred places in Sassanian Iran. According to legend, each Sassanian king had to make a pilgrimage on foot from Ctesiphon, in present-day Iraq, to pray before the sacred fire before ascending the throne. Discover the Alisadr Cave in Hamadan. Overnight in Hamadan.

Day 5, Hamadan

In the morning, depart for Kermanshah. Along the way, visit Kangavar, known in the Middle Ages as Concobar and referred to by Arab historians as Qasr al-Lusus (Castle of Thieves). The small town surrounds a temple founded during the Sassanian period and dedicated to the goddess Anahita. In Kermanshah, visit an important site from the Achaemenid era called "Bisotun," listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Taq-e Bostan site, featuring beautiful Sassanian rock reliefs carved on the walls of two iwan arches. Return to Hamadan at the end of the day. Overnight in Hamadan.

Day 6, Kashan

In the morning, visit the city of Hamadan, dominated by Mount Alvand and founded by the Medes in 712 BC. Begin with the Shir Sanghi sculpture (Stone Lion) attributed to Alexander, then visit the mausoleum of Esther and Mardochai, followed by the mausoleum of Avicenna (980-1037), a physician and philosopher who wrote the Canon of Medicine. Depart for Kashan. Overnight in Kashan.

Day 7, Yazd

Explore the city of Kashan, renowned for its rosewater and original carpets. Visit the characteristic Tabatabai House, belonging to a wealthy merchant from the 19th century, and take a stroll in the delicate Fin Garden. In the afternoon, depart for Yazd. On the way, visit the ancient Nain Mosque. Overnight in Yazd.

Day 8, Yazd

In the morning, visit Yazd: the Fire Temple, where Zoroastrians still celebrate their religious rituals, the Jame Mosque, the magnificent Mirchaqmaq Square, and the Fahadan old district, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue with a visit to the Zoroastrian Towers of Silence. Overnight in Yazd.

Day 9, Shiraz

In the morning, depart for Shiraz. Stop along the way to visit Pasargadae, the first capital of the Achaemenids. Overnight in Shiraz.

Day 10, Shiraz

The day is dedicated to exploring the city of Shiraz, known for its gardens and mild climate. In the morning, visit the Nasir al-Molk Mosque, the bazaar, and the Moshir Caravanserai. In the afternoon, visit the Vakil Complex and other monuments built by Karim Khan (mosque, hammam, bazaar), the Eram Garden, and the mausoleum of Hafez. Overnight in Shiraz.

Day 11, Isfahan

Depart for Isfahan. In the morning, an excursion to Persepolis and an in-depth visit to the site, built by Darius I in 518 BC for the celebration of the New Year (Nowruz). The visit continues to Naqsh-e-Rostam, the cemetery of the early Achaemenid emperors. Continue the journey to Isfahan. Overnight in Isfahan.

Day 12, Isfahan

Visit Isfahan, one of the most picturesque cities in the world, often referred to as "half of the world" in Persian. Explore the Friday Mosque, considered the 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 Zayandeh Rud, the only river in the Iranian plateau, and explore the famous bridges of Si-o-se-pol and Khaju, dating back to the 17th century. Overnight in Isfahan.

Day 13, Isfahan

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

Day 14, Tehran

In the morning, depart for Tehran. En route, visit Abyaneh, a beautiful village made entirely of clay, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight in Tehran.

Day 15, Tehran - Departure

Transfer to the airport in the morning for your 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.

Travel insurance

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

Sim Card

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

  • dany203 says:
    April 2, 2024 at
    We had a great great time. It was amazing. I recommend this trip to everybody. Dana, the driver was excellent host!!!
    Reply