Historical Classic 5 Iran tour
Tour Operator:
Classic
Max group size:
12
Age range:
+12 years old
Operated in:
English
Tour Code:
Hi05
Tour length:
8
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.
Arrival at Imam Khomeini Airport. Greeted by your guide and transfer to the hotel.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In the morning, depart for Shiraz. Stop along the way to visit Pasargadae, the first capital of the Achaemenids. Overnight in 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Transfer to the airport in the morning for your return flight.
4* and 5* hotels, traditional houses
Service of an experienced English-speaking guide.
Buffet breakfast at the hotel, lunch and dinner in typical Iranian restaurants.
In a recent, air-conditioned vehicle with its experienced driver.
Entrance tickets to the museums and archaeological sites mentioned in the program
Valid passport for at least six months. Entry visa obtained in your country.
Generally, Iran does not pose any specific health problems. No vaccinations are mandatory. As a precautionary measure, it is advisable to consult your doctor or health service before departure to obtain any additional information. Hygiene standards are high, and most travellers do not experience any discomfort other than fatigue due to the heat. However, bringing a basic pharmacy kit and any specific medication is recommended. Tap water is drinkable in most parts of the country, but it is better to drink bottled mineral water, which is available everywhere.
The Iranian currency is the Rial. Prices are usually displayed in Rials, but people often refer to Toman, equivalent to 10 Rials. The use of credit cards is almost absent (except for some craft shops), and there are no ATMs. Therefore, bringing Euros from France and exchanging them for Rials on-site is necessary. In some stores, payment in Euros or US dollars is also accepted.
Upon arrival in Iran, you can exchange Euros for cash without any problem at the airport or on the second day in Tehran at a currency exchange office. It is also advisable to carry international credit cards because some merchants of valuable items (miniatures, turquoise, carpets) also accept credit cards (such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express).
The official language is Persian. In major cities, the educated population speaks English fairly well.
Iran is a Muslim country with a majority Shiite population (90%). There are significant communities of Sunni Muslims in the southwest and southeast of the country, as well as Armenians, Assyrians, and, to a lesser extent, Christians, Jews, and Zoroastrians, who are allowed and free to practice their faith.
Due to its vastness, Iran has a varied environment. Winter (December to February) can be very cold, especially in the northwest. In summer (June to August), temperatures reach 50°C on the Persian Gulf coast and southern provinces. Precipitation mainly occurs in the northern and western parts of the country, which have the coldest climate zone. Western Iran often experiences snow that lasts until early spring. Throughout the country, summer temperatures are always hot but more bearable due to the drier climate. In September, temperatures are still similar to summer, but evenings are cooler, so an outer layer of clothing may be pleasant.
The choice of clothing should generally meet the criteria of practicality, comfort, and responsiveness to the climate and environment. Opting for sporty and comfortable clothing that allows greater freedom of movement and does not hinder blood circulation with tight laces or narrow fittings is advisable. Avoid clothing made of synthetic fibres that prevent sweating, especially in hot environments. A fundamental principle to remember when choosing a dress for this type of trip is layering: it is better to have different lightweight garments that can be To call your country, worn layered if needed. This technique allows you to adjust the degree of body coverage to changing climates and ensures effective protection against temperature extremes and wind.
Regarding colours, there are no strict rules. Makeup is not a problem, but opting for a certain discretion is better. Sandals can be worn without socks.
To call Iran: Dial 00 + country code 98 (Iran) + regional code without the first 0 + your correspondent’s number. In Iran, for an international call: Dial 00 + country code (France 33, Belgium 32, Switzerland 41) + regional code followed by your correspondent’s number, removing the first 0. The most convenient solution for calling your country is through your hotel. For the use and coverage of mobile phones, refer to your service provider.
The electrical current is 220V. The plugs are of the European type with two round pins.
The itinerary is flexible and depends on local conditions. During the trip, if necessary, the guide may modify the program.
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Copyright © Kentaltravel. All rights reserved. Legal notice