Iran, explored!

Ive decided to visit Iran. It was not on my bucket list or anything to be honest not even close to a destination I wanted to visit this year – mainly due to my concerns of not getting approved for my next visa to the US being a travel blogger. An opportunity came to me which is to join a group of friends on an organized trip to Iran. So, I decided to take the ‘risk’ and do it anyway.

For this trip, I wanted to be ‘spontaneous’ which is something absolutely out of my comfort zone. A friend of mine was planning a trip, invited a couple of other friends and wanted to test it out as a group trip for her next official group trip to Iran which she launched on my travel business; www.helloexplorer.com

Iran, also known as Persia, is a country located in Western Asia that boasts a rich cultural heritage and a fascinating history that spans thousands of years. With a population of over 83 million people, Iran is known for its stunning architecture that showcases the unique blend of traditional and modern elements. From the grandeur of ancient Persian cities to the intricate details of Islamic art and design, Iran’s architecture is truly breathtaking.

One of the reasons I jumped on this opportunity as a content creators and photography enthusiast is Iran’s beautiful architecture which provides a wealth of opportunities for capturing stunning visuals. The country’s vibrant colors, intricate details, and stunning landscapes make it a paradise for anyone looking to explore and capture the beauty of the world around them. Whether you’re interested in photographing ancient ruins, grand mosques, or bustling markets, Iran has something to offer for everyone.

One of the most prominent examples of Iran’s architecture is its mosques, which are not only places of worship but also significant cultural and historical landmarks. The intricate tile work, calligraphy, and geometric patterns found in these structures are a testament to the country’s artistic prowess and attention to detail. Other notable examples of Iranian architecture include the stunning palaces and gardens of Shiraz, the ancient ruins of Persepolis, and the ornate bridges of Isfahan.

My Experienced Itinerary:

My trip was for 14 days which I cut short after 9 days due to work matters and lack of internet access.

My route in May which is the rose water picking season was as follows: (Tehran, Kashan, Isfahan, Kurdistan, Qashem, Hourmoz)

The itinerary I recommend you follow instead:

It depends mainly on the # of days you have, but if its a 7 day trip for example which is the most common visit to do then i’d focus on:

Day 1: Tehran

Start your trip by exploring the bustling capital city of Tehran. Visit the Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy its stunning architecture and intricate tile work. Then, head to the National Museum of Iran to learn about the country’s rich history and culture.

Day 2: Kashan

Take a morning drive to Kashan, a beautiful oasis city known for its historic houses and gardens. Visit the UNESCO-listed Fin Garden, one of the finest examples of Persian gardens which i liked visiting, and explore the traditional houses such as Tabatabaei House and Ameri House. Don’t miss the chance to taste the delicious rosewater ice cream that Kashan is famous for. In Kashan, we stayed at a 250 year old house that got turned into a boutique hotel called The Saraye Ameriha

Day 3: Isfahan

Travel to Isfahan, i iked this city alot and it is know to be one of the most beautiful cities in Iran and once the capital of the Safavid Empire. Start your tour by visiting the stunning Naqsh-e Jahan Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the Ali Qapu Palace, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and Imam Mosque. Spend the rest of the day exploring the vibrant bazaar, where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy local delicacies. Hotel option is: Ghasr Monshi Boutique Hotel

Day 4: Isfahan

Continue your exploration of Isfahan by visiting the Jameh Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, and the Chehel Sotoun Palace, with its beautiful gardens and frescoes. In the evening, take a walk along the Zayandeh River and enjoy the stunning views of the famous bridges, including Si-o-se-pol and Khaju Bridge.

Day 5: Yazd

Travel to the desert city of Yazd, known for its historic architecture and unique culture. Visit the UNESCO-listed Jameh Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques in Iran, and explore the winding alleys of the historic old town. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Zoroastrian Towers of Silence and the Fire Temple, two important religious sites in Yazd.

Day 6: Yazd

Continue your exploration of Yazd by visiting the beautiful Dowlat Abad Garden, with its stunning wind tower and lush gardens. Then, head to the rooftop of the traditional Fahadan Hotel to enjoy a stunning view of the old city at sunset. In the evening, try some of the local delicacies, such as qotab, a traditional pastry filled with nuts and spices.

Day 7: Tehran

Travel back to Tehran and spend your final day visiting some of the city’s hidden gems, such as the Niavaran Palace Complex and the Sa’ad Abad Museum. I recommend the boutique hotel I stayed in called: Nezamiyeh

I do have an agent/guide that we work with in Iran via helloexplorer.com please reach out to us we offer a paid consulting service where we can sort out your plan and bookings for you in Iran!