Things to Do in Yazd (Photos, Timing)

A must-see location and a UNESCO World Heritage City situated in the heart of Iran, the city of Yazd is home to various cultural attractions and houses two of the most important deserts of Iran. Yazd is a city where you can feel the kindness of people and the hospitality of its locals. Describing the city of Yazd in one article is a difficult job since the vibes and atmosphere of this city, its attractions, and its people are more than you can imagine. If you are ready let us start getting familiar with Yazd and Things to do in Yazd to experience a different lifetime back in ancient Iran.

Towers of Silence

Yazd towers of Silence (Zoroastrians’ Dakhmeh) are located far from the city center where old buildings and wind catchers get you familiar with Zoroastrians’ traditions. After exploring the disused Zoroastrian buildings at the foot of the hills, climb up the hill to the towers and you will be amazed by the atmosphere and tranquility of the towers. The towers are made out of adobe and although they are starkly simple, there is a solemn majesty about them. The history behind these towers is fascinating.

In the Zoroastrian religion, the bodies of the dead were placed at the top of the towers for birds of prey to dispose them of. They believe in the sacredness of the earth, fire, and water, and back in the old years, their dead bodies were not buried in the ground to prevent contamination. There is an interesting fact about this tradition which is the way the bodies were laid in circles; men in the outermost layer, women in between, and finally children in the center. By visiting this place, not only you will discover the secrets of this old monument, but will you have the whole town at your feet. And it is among the top places to visit in Yazd.

The nearest bus station to Zoroastrian’s Dakhmeh is the Sarv bus station. However, taking a taxi from this place is a better choice. If you have already decided to go by car, Find Isar Square in the southeast of Yazd. Zoroastrian’s Dakhmeh is on the boulevard that connects this square to Emam Hadi Blvd.

Opening hours: 8 am – 5 pm

Things to do in Yazd – The towers are made out of adobe and although they are starkly simple, there is a solemn majesty about them.

Yazd Khan Bazaar

No matter every place you go in Iran, visiting the local bazaar should be one of the must-do activities on your list. Visiting the local bazaar of every city provides a beautiful perspective and a lovely image of the culture of the local people and introduces their souvenirs.

Yazd, one of the cultural cities of Iran, has a local marketplace that dates back to old times. Yazd Khan Bazaar is where you feel the real vibes of the city. It is a vibrant and historic location that is filled with a variety of shops and traditional stores. The architecture of the Khan Bazaar is a marvel itself. The maze-like structure features narrow alleyways, vaulted ceilings, and traditional brickwork, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the artisans of Yazd. Within the Khan Bazaar, you’ll find a variety of food stalls and traditional eateries. Indulge in delicious Persian snacks, sweets, and traditional beverages.

Old City

If you are into photography, you will love Old City! A calm and peaceful place to wander around which presents a photo opportunity at every turn and by no doubt one of the best places to visit in Yazd. You can walk around the houses and through alleyways for hours and not get tired. The narrow streets, the amazing color of the walls, and the structure of the buildings are all delightful. Muddy alleys, arches that connect walls and rooftops, and a historic atmosphere all give you a time travel feeling.

The families live in the houses built inside the protecting walls, behind the richly decorated doors. There are many little shops, cafes, and museums that can be found by exploring the narrow streets of Old City. While exploring Yazd’s famous Old Town, stop by the Art House Café; a nice and lovely place for having drinks and meals with a spectacular view from the rooftop. For having a memorable day in the Old City, find a traditional bakery, and buy some fresh and tasty bread. Then sit in the park with its pomegranate surrounding trees, watch the kids playing hide and seek, and get ready for the next destination.

Things to do in Yazd – The old city, Yazd

Yazd Water Museum

Yazd is a historical city that provides a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of Iran. Yazd Water Museum is another location that you should add to your list; it is the best opportunity to introduce yourself to the history of water in Iran and learn more about the culture and identity of Iranian people living in Yazd. Yazd Water Museum is also known as the Ab-Anbar Museum. The museum is dedicated to historical water management and conservation in the desert city of Yazd, which is a brilliant idea if you put your thoughts into it.

Moreover, the city of Yazd has a long history of ingenious water management techniques that have sustained the city for centuries. Yazd Water Museum provides an insight into the old methods of water management used by the Yazdi people. Visiting Yazd Water Museum is a great journey of intelligence and history, which will give you a better sight of old techniques of water management in a deserted city.

Jameh Mosque of Yazd

Jameh Mosque is the main mosque in Yazd with nice architecture which is another example of Islamic art and architecture. Jameh Mosque of Yazd used to be a fire temple back in the Sasanid dynasty. The tall minarets, reaching high above the Old City, are the highest minarets in Iran that bring their beautiful tiles up to the sky. A gorgeous and overwhelming facade locks up your imagination to be immersed in various shades of blue as if you found yourself in front of the gate of heaven.

The beautiful exterior shines brighter when sparks of sunshine reflect the blue sky-colored tiles. Spring and Autumn are the best seasons for visiting the breathtaking Jameh Mosque. This masterpiece is particularly stunning in the evening when it’s all lit up. The way that the light is provided on the dome and walls, makes a spiritual and holy atmosphere at night. It’s like a jewel shining in the darkness of the night.
If you’re driving to the Jameh Mosque you can go either by Gole Sorkh or Imam Street but if you’re on foot get on Seyed Gole Sorkh Street and then Larde Keyvan.

Opening hours: 8 am – 9 pm

Things to do in Yazd: Jame Mosque

Dowlat Abad Garden

The structure of the building, the highest windward in the world, and a mesmerizing courtyard are all reasons to visit DowlatAbad Garden. This historic monument has been registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List as one of the masterpieces of traditional gardens in Iran. As was mentioned before, the highest windward in the world is inside a magnificent house with colorful windows, beautiful terraces, doors, and water passages. It is better to visit the house in the daytime so the glory of the stained glass windows can be well appreciated.

Inside of the windward is a good and cool spot for photography! conditioning air without using expensive energy, creating natural ventilation back in the Afsharid era is so impressive. It’s not only windward, but the water storage (Ab Anbar) is also another impressive creation located at the corner of the garden. The garden itself adds to its serenity; by looking at the garden and the entrance, you’ll see the long pool in the shade of the tall cypress trees leading you to the main entrance of the building. On the way to the building, there are a lot of beautiful pomegranate and grape trees, making your journey through time more delightful.

Find Dowlat Abad Boulevard which attaches Enghelab Street to Motahari Street. Dowlat Abad Garden Postal is located in the eastern direction in the middle of the boulevard.

Opening hours: 7 am – 11 pm

Things to do in Yazd – Dolat Abad Garden is among the top places to visit in Yazd.

Amir Chakhmaq Complex

Architectural Masterpiece and an amazing cultural heritage situated in the center of Yazd, the Amir Chakhmaq Complex is the icon and symbol of this city. If you are into photography, you will fall in love with this complex as it displays history, beauty, and majesty at the same time.

The complex dates back to the 15th century (Timurid Era) when Iran experienced major cultural events. The complex is composed of several interconnected elements, making it a remarkable attraction. Amir Chakhmaq Complex includes a mosque, a caravanserai, a bathhouse, a large square, and a tekyeh, which is a religious place. The architecture of the Amir Chakhmaq Complex is one of its admirable features, showcasing Islamic architecture and the cultural identity of Iranian people during the Timurid Era. Of course, the complex has undergone various renovations and additions over the centuries. The Amir Chakhmaq Complex is accessible by car, taxi, and also by foot as it is in the center of the city.

Zoroastrian Fire Temple

Zoroastrian is one of the oldest religions in the world. The ceremonies and the history of Zoroastrians are unique and the Fire Temple is still being used by them for their prayers. It is really interesting to see a specific holy place for Zoroastrians. The building resembles Achaemenid architecture itself. A place for Zoroastrians to practice their religion by the eternal fire! What makes this monument so special is the fact that a fire that was once made, is still burning since 1500 years ago. Fire is a holy element in the Zoroastrian religion and there are some chosen people in their own religion who are called whisperers; these whisperers are supposed to take care of the fire and don’t let it lose its power.

Things to do in Yazd – Zoroastrian Fire Temple

When you arrive at the temple, you will be welcomed by the Fardvahar statue (a winged deity of the Ahura Mazda). The courtyard at the entrance is beautiful and relaxing with many seats and trees and a nice and spiritual atmosphere inside and out. A lovely pool in the middle of the yard proves the fact that every ancient fire temple had to be built near a pool. By visiting the Zoroastrian Fire Temple not only you can learn about the ancient history of Iran and the Achaemenid Empire, but also you can understand their importance.
Find Basij Blvd. and Kashani Rd. intersection as your landmark. Turn to Kashani Rd. and then turn to the third street (Atashkade) on your left.

Opening hours: 7:30 am – 9:30 pm

Yazd Desert Tour

Traveling to a desert city provides a great opportunity for Desert Tours with an offroad car. The desert surrounding Yazd is a stunning expanse of vast dunes, rugged mountains, and dramatic rock formations. Desert tours are one of the most unique experiences that everybody should try once in their lifetime. Watching stars in the clear sky of the night, looking at the sunset in peace and a tranquil feeling, and exploring the endless deserts with a 4×4 car are some of the must-try activities that you should try at a desert city with a desert tour. Yazd Desert Tours can provide an array of thrilling activities for adventure enthusiasts. You can indulge in exhilarating activities such as dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding across the desert. These experiences allow you to feel the adrenaline rush while exploring the vastness of the desert terrain.

Rooftop Cafes of Yazd

Offering a unique and tranquil experience, the rooftop cafes of Yazd are the best places to enjoy the atmosphere of the city and have a perfect view of Yazd. Many charming rooftop cafes in Yazd aim to deliver the visitors the tranquil and relaxing atmosphere of the city while enjoying your tea and sweet local Persian bread. The stunning views of the city create a memorable experience.

The rooftop cafes in Yazd exude an authentic and laid-back ambiance that reflects the city’s traditional charm. These cafes also host live music. Immerse yourself and escape from the problems of your mind at the rooftop cafes of Yazd.

Final Words

Yazd is a beautiful city and a must-visit destination located in the heart of Iran, connecting two important deserts of the country. If you have traveled to other cities in Iran, and it is your first time visiting Yazd, you will quickly notice how different the vibes of Yazd are. People, atmosphere, attractions, and other things to do in Yazd will provide a unique and never-before-seen experience. The City of Windcatchers is famous for its uniqueness. Therefore, if you want to have great moments and experience an amazing trip, Yazd is the one-stop destination you should check out.