Things to Do in Isfahan (Photos, Info, Timing)

Isfahan is filled with wonderful structures belonging to the Seljuk and Safavid Dynasties. It is a city of rich Persian art, history, culture, and handicrafts that you should not miss. There are beautiful palaces, bridges, mosques, and bazaars in Isfahan that are a great representative of the beautiful four-season Iran. In this article, we have included the best Things to do in Isfahan.

Naghshe Jahan Square

Don’t mistake it for the usual square right in the heart of the city. Naghshe Jahan Square, also known as Imam Square, is a significant square full of wonders and archaeological masterpieces belonging to the Safavid Era. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has great attractions on each corner, and there are many stores all around the square presenting remarkable Isfahan handicrafts and art.

You can find Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque on the east, Shah Mosque on the south, Ali Qapu Palace on the west, and Qeysarie Bazaar on the north side of the mosque, which are the prominent attractions of this square.

There are so many colorful tiles and calligraphic inscriptions in the Sheikh Lotfollah and Shah Mosque. Geisarie Gate is actually the main portal to the Isfahan Grand Bazaar.

Visiting Naghshe Jahan Square may take more than half a day, but it’s totally worth it. Take your time exploring the rich culture of Isfahan; rushing your visit to Naqshe Jahan Square means you might miss a lot. Just take your time and explore each corner’s beauty slowly. By the way, you can get on a horse and go through the square from an upper view.

Naghshe Jahan Square is close to Darvazeh Dowlat Square. With a 1- km walk, you will reach there. Just go on the east side of the square on Sepah Street, and within a 10-minute walk, you reach Naqshe Jahan Square.

Opening Hours:

Spring & Summer: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Autumn & Winter: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Qeysarieh Bazaar

The Qeysarieh Bazaar, located in the heart of Isfahan near Naqsh-e Jahan Square, is one of the most famous and historically significant bazaars in Iran. The bazaar, which dates back to the Safavid period in the early 17th century, was built during the reign of Shah Abbas I to facilitate trade and commerce, especially with Europe and Central Asia.

The bazaar is a labyrinth of covered passageways, archways, and shops, each offering a wide variety of goods, including textiles, spices, jewelry, carpets, and traditional Persian handicrafts. The entrance to the bazaar is marked by a monumental iwan, which leads visitors into the vast network of corridors and courtyards.

The architecture is characterized by traditional Persian vaulting and tile work, with high domed ceilings that create a cool, shaded atmosphere. The bazaar was once a thriving commercial center and continues to be a lively market, drawing both locals and tourists.

In addition to its commercial importance, Qeysarieh Bazaar is home to numerous historical landmarks and architectural gems, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Persian culture and history.

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 9 PM

Shah Mosque

The Shah Mosque, also known as the Imam Mosque, is located on the southern side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Isfahan. It was constructed between 1611 and 1630 during the reign of Shah Abbas I, who wanted it to reflect the power and prestige of the Safavid Empire.

The mosque is an exquisite example of classical Persian architecture, combining elements of Islamic calligraphy, tile work, and monumental design. The mosque’s stunning blue tile mosaics, paired with its grand iwan (vaulted hall) and a vast prayer hall with an enormous dome, are striking features.

The two minarets, standing over 40 meters tall, dominate the surrounding landscape. One of the most remarkable architectural aspects is the mosque’s acoustics: sound in the central dome echoes perfectly across the space.

The Shah Mosque also features a large central courtyard and an ornate entrance portal, both decorated with intricate geometric patterns and Qur’anic inscriptions. The mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage site, continues to serve as a place of worship and is open to tourists daily.

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque

The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, located on the eastern side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan, Iran, is one of the finest examples of Safavid-era architecture. Commissioned by Shah Abbas I and completed in 1619, the mosque was originally built for the royal court and was never intended for public worship.

The mosque’s unique feature is its asymmetrical design, as it was constructed to fit into a corner of the square. The most captivating aspect of its architecture is its intricately detailed dome, which appears to change color throughout the day, from soft ivory in the morning to rich golden hues in the evening.

The interior of the mosque is adorned with stunning tile work, including intricate floral patterns and verses from the Quran. The structure is a masterpiece of Islamic art, with delicate stucco decorations and a serene, almost ethereal atmosphere.

The mosque’s prayer hall features a stunning muqarnas dome, and the central courtyard has a tranquil pool that reflects the beauty of the structure. The mosque remains a testament to the artistic and architectural grandeur of the Safavid dynasty.

Open to visitors daily, though hours may vary during religious holidays.

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM

Ali Qapu Palace

Ali Qapu is a grand palace located on the western side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Isfahan, built during the early 17th century by Shah Abbas I. The palace was initially constructed as a royal residence and a place for receiving guests, offering a commanding view of the square.

The name “Ali Qapu” means “Great Gate,” signifying its role as the gateway to the royal complex. The building’s design reflects Safavid architectural styles, with a tall, multi-story structure, intricate tile work, and extensive use of wooden ceilings.

The most remarkable feature of Ali Qapu is its second-floor music hall, which was used for royal gatherings and music performances. The room’s acoustics were carefully designed so that the sounds from musical instruments would reverberate perfectly throughout the space.

The palace’s terrace offers a panoramic view of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the mosque complex, and the surrounding areas. The architecture’s harmonious blend of function and beauty made it a symbol of royal power.

Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM

Jameh Mosque of Isfahan

Wondering what walking through time might mean for an attraction in Isfahan? Well, Jameh Mosque of Isfahan has undergone gradual changes during the last centuries, which is why you will be confronting changes through time in this mosque.

In different dynasties, there were some remodeling and reconstructions in the mosque styles. Its magnificent architectural design has a prominent effect on Iran and Central Asia. Besides, Jameh Mosque has an open area with a magnificent view of the sky.

To get to Jameh Mosque, you need to head north on Majlesi Street, and Jameh Mosque is just on the right side of the street.

Opening Hours: 9 – 11 a.m. & 1- 4:30 p.m.

Zayandeh Rud River

One of the great features of Isfahan is the Zayandeh Rud River and its bridges right in the middle of the city. In the south of the beautiful Chahar Bagh Abbasi Street, you can reach the eye-catching Sio-se-pol Bridge. This bridge spans the Zayandeh Rud River and is a two-story bridge with 33 arches that stretch across the Zayanderud River.

Unfortunately, due to the climate changes, downstream of the river has dried up several times in recent years. But if you are lucky, you will be amazed by the beauty of the river and the Sio-Se-Pol bridge as well. The great point of this bridge is that you will find local people singing or reciting a poem on the bridge at night, and the scenery is just wonderful.

A few meters away, you can see Khaju Bridge. This bridge was built during the Shah Abbas II Kingdom. In the two-story Kahju Bridge center, there is a pavilion where you can enjoy the landscape.

The river is just across Bozorgmehr Square. Head to the west of the square, and within a 1-kilometer walk, you will reach the Khaju Bridge. After crossing one extra kilometer, you will get on the magnificent Sio Se Pol Bridge.

Vank Cathedral

Right in the center of the Jolfa area, which is the Armenian quarter of Isfahan, you can find Vank Cathedral also known as Amenaperkich Cathedral. The multicolored murals and frescoes in the church are a must-see when visiting Isfahan. This church has vividly depicted biblical stories.

Bear in mind that cameras are not allowed to capture these brilliant patterns and paintings on the ceilings and walls. It is on Middle Nazar Street, right along the Zayandeh Rud River.

Opening Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Chehel Sotoun Palace

Chehel Sotoun Palace is one of the Persian Gardens registered on the UNESCO World Heritage Site List. Its name (“Chehel Sotoun” means “40 pillars” in Persian) comes after the palace’s 20 pillars and it is said with the reflection on the water in the front pond, you can see 40 pillars; which is actually not true.

This palace was also built under the command of Shah Abbas II. This site was constructed as an entertainment center for the king’s guests. You can see magnificent frescoes and paintings on the ceiling and walls.

Unfortunately, a great number of its ceramic panels have been dispersed and you will find them in European museums. On the east side of Darvazeh Dowlat Square, on Sepah Street, you can see the magnificent Chehel Sotoun Palace.

Opening Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Isfahan Music Museum

If you have artistic taste and specifically you are a fan of musical instruments, Isfahan Music Museum is a MUST-VISIT in the Jolfa area. It has a collection of more than 300 traditional Iranian instruments.

The remarkable point about visiting this museum is that the guides at the museum play the instruments for you to showcase their differences and their specific sounds. Besides, in peak times, you can enjoy live Iranian folk music by the musicians of the museum. To get to Isfahan Music Museum, just head North on Tohid Street and turn left at Mehrdad Street, where you can see the museum.

Opening Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sofeh Mountain

If you hike on a regular basis and you are searching for a place around Isfahan to exercise a bit, Sofeh Mountain is a good option. Note that it is 590 meters above sea level and takes you less than two hours to reach the peak. Besides, the route to the peak is almost paved, so don’t worry if you don’t have suitable hiking shoes with you.

To reach Mount Sofeh from the Darvazeh Shiraz Square, head east toward Hezar Jerib Avenue and turn left onto Soffeh Boulevard. You will easily get there in a 10-minute ride.

Zoroastrian Fire Temple

The Atashkade belongs to the Sasanian Era and is located on a hillside a few kilometers from the western part of Isfahan. With a little bit of hiking, you will have an excellent panorama of the scenery at the Zoroastrian Fire Temple of Isfahan. The temple is on East Nazar Street along the Zayandeh Rud River.

Opening Hours: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. & 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Varzaneh Desert

There are numerous well-known deserts in Iran, and we highly suggest visiting at least one of them. If you have limited time and Isfahan is on your list, Varzaneh is a great option to visit since it is right next to Isfahan. At Varzaneh, you can either have a night camping tour in the desert or stay at its beautiful traditional guesthouses.

Varzaneh is within a two-hour drive distance of Isfahan. Bear in mind that it is not just limited to its desert; there are some historical sites and the beautiful Salt Lake you can visit during your stay.

Last Words

This was just a shortlist of a few attractions in Isfahan, but as it is said “Isfahan Nesf-e Jahan” means that Isfahan includes half of all the culture, history, and beauties of the world. If you are lucky enough to have extra time, try visiting Hasht Behesht Palace, Monar Jonban, Saeb Tomb, Avicenna Tomb, Majlesi Tomb, Angorestan, Malek Historic House, Bird Garden, and Pigeon Tower.

This is not where it ends, Isfahan is a tasty city where you can find delicious foods, sweets, and snacks. Don’t miss trying Beryani and Khoresh Mast -the famous Isfahani dishes-, and buy some Gaz -Isfahan pretty delicious sweet- for your loved ones.

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran tours.