Iran is the world’s seventeenth largest country and the second largest one in the Middle East.
Thanks to its sheer enormity, Iran certainly has a lot to offer to all visitors.
Are you looking for a thrilling adventure? Do you want to learn more about ancient Persia, to be closer to nature, to indulge in great eats, or simply wish to relax in an exotic environment?
You will find what you’re looking for in Iran.
Once you have sorted out your Iran tourist visa and you want to make the most out of your holiday in this beautiful country, make sure you put these activities on top of your travel itinerary:
1.Walk along the Nature Bridge at night
If you will be arriving in Iran via Tehran, try to be at the Tabi’at or Nature Bridge before the sun sets.
This large, award-winning bridge which connects Taleghani Park and Abo-Atash Park, is one of the well-known architectural marvels of Iran.
If you are on the bridge before the sun sets, you will enjoy an amazing view of mountains to the north. Once it gets dark, you will get to see picturesque Tehran as it is illuminated by thousands of colorful bright lights.
2.Visit the Golestan Palace
To start immersing yourself in the rich heritage of Iran, visit the Golestan Palace. This is one of the most iconic historic monuments in Iran and currently one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the country.
This majestic palace was first built in the 16th century by Shah Abbas. It underwent renovation during the Zand dynasty. The palace was then rebuilt to its present form during the Qajar era.
The Golestan Palace complex is made up of 17 structures, all of which are interesting on their own. There are different palaces, museums, and halls. You will also find three main archives here including the photographic archive, the archive of historical documents, and the library of manuscripts.
Some of the areas you should visit first are the Marble Throne, the Edifice of the Sun (Shams ol Emareh), Museum of Gifts, and the Salam Hall. There is also a restaurant here where you can sample a variety of the best Persian dishes.
3.Watch the sunrise at the Pink Mosque in Shiraz
Once you’re ready to venture out of Tehran, make your way to Shiraz, specifically the Gawd-i Arabān quarter.
Here you will find the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, also known as the Pink Mosque. It is one of the most beautiful mosques in the world as its facade is made of extensive colored glasses. The Pink Mosque got its name because of the pink-colored tiles inside it.
During sunrise, the mosque is bathed in an astonishing array of vibrant colors. These colors dance inside as the ground, walls, arches, and towering spires reflect them. Seeing all these colors bouncing around firsthand is one of the most magical, unforgettable experiences you can have in Iran.
4.Explore Persepolis
After visiting the Pink Mosque, head to Persepolis – another UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can immerse yourself in the fascinating history of ancient Persia which dates back to 515 BC.
This expansive historic site full of ancient artistic works has a lot to offer to travelers in that spending a day here can easily be one of the most memorable experiences of your life.
While here, look for the wonderfully-made reliefs such as those on the staircase of the Apadana and doorway reliefs of the king in the private palace of Darius.
The Gate of Nations, Ruins of Tachara, and Persepolis Museum are great places for exploring as well.
5. Visit the bazaars
Iran has hundreds of bazaars.
Aside from being excellent places to do your shopping in, you will learn more and experience the hub of local life in any of these bazaars.
Some of the most popular bazaars here are:
- The Grand Bazaar
- Isfahan Bazaar
- Vakil Bazaar
- Bazaar of Tabriz
- Yazd’s Bazaars
While spending some of your holiday pocket money in one these bazaars, don’t be embarrassed to haggle with the locals. Take the time to learn more about their culture as well.
Don’t forget to indulge in the wide array scrumptious, authentic Iranian dishes and drinks while you are here as exploring Iran’s fascinating local food scene will also be an unforgettable experience in itself.
When you choose to have a holiday in Iran, expect to experience one of the most memorable and exceptional getaways of your life.
AUTHOR BIO
Hamid Habibollah is Head of Content and Social Media at Snapptrip, a full-service travel booking company based in Tehran, Iran with a mission to empower customers’ choices in booking their whole travel online. Hamid is an experienced content marketer with a demonstrated history of working in the internet industry and a passion for new media.