Travel to Iran would probably be like none of your previous trips, it is certainly a unique destination you never expect. There are loads of unique experiences waiting for you here, including cultural attractions, natural beauty, warm-hearted hospitable people, and tasty local foods.
Well, the next issue might be your safety. While you are searching is it safe to travel to Iran, it is never easy to distinguish between propaganda and genuine information. The two risk assessment institutions “International SOS” and “Risk control” evaluate Iran’s risk to travelers to be comparable to that of most European countries’.
Iran Doostan Tours Co. is a reliable Iran travel agency for incoming tours to Iran. No difference whether you are aiming to travel to Iran from Canada or travel to Iran from India, or any other country, we are honored to offer high-quality services in terms of diverse package tours. As a tour operator and travel agency in Iran, we provide all travel services including itineraries, visa, tour guides, transportation, accommodation, and whatever our tourists may need while traveling to Iran. If you are looking for some self-drive tours like travel to Iran by car, we are also ready to provide you with all you may need.
It is good to know that the Iran visa process is quite fast and convenient and the tourists can also apply for a visa online. However, if you intend to travel to Iran from the UK or US, your visa may take a bit longer to be issued.
If you have a call for an independent traveling to Iran, we wholeheartedly respect your decision; then all you may need to have except an Iran travel guide book and a map would be reading some tips for traveling to Iran in our Iran travel blog. For any travel to Iran experience, you are recommended to visit our guest blog and also our trip advisor page, it may be helpful. You may also like to spare some time watching interesting Iran tourism videos to whet your appetite for traveling to Iran.
Our professional colleagues are ready to help you if you have planned to travel to our country. Contact us via info@idt.ir. We will be back to you soon.

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Iranian Souvenirs

Iran Souvenir: 7 Top souvenirs to buy in Iran

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From now on you don’t need to worry about what you actually could buy as a souvenir in Iran. From carpets and Persian rugs, to spices and nuts or specially designed decorations in Persian styles. Here are 7 most popular Persian souvenirs that could be bought to bring back the sweet memories of your trip in Iran.

Persian Carpet

As you might know, some of the best rugs in the world are made in Iran. Persian Carpets have always been popular among all people around the world. Almost every part of Iran that you travel to, has amazing carpets lying around the shops, spreading colorful and dreamy vibes around. Some carpets might take over years to be done, and considering the number of knots and time that has been put into carpets, their prices differ from one another. If you’re looking to buy a Persian carpet or a rug as a souvenir, silk or wool hand-knotted ones are the best options if you truly want to feel heaven under your feet.

Persian carpet - souvenirs to buy in Iran

Most of the best carpets in the world are made in Iran.

Saffron

Iran is one of the main producers of saffron, a popular and precious spice. Saffron is almost served with every Persian meal that has rice beside it. The luxurious popular plate of Persian rice, topped with some saffron rice, is absolutely everyone’s favorite. Saffron is not only used for meals but it is also used for drinks as well. Making a drink with saffron and rosewater, or just adding a little bit of it to your tea could make your day all better (Saffron harvest season in Iran)

Iranian saffron

Iran is one of the main producers of saffron, a popular and precious spice.

Caviar

What could possibly be more luxurious than Caspian Caviar as a souvenir? Iran owns the most expensive caviar in the world which is known as Almas Beluga Caviar. Beluga fish can be found in southern part of Caspian Sea and their soft and large golden or black eggs are what they’re famous for. This particular type of caviar, also known as black gold, has lots of fans for itself. Caviar has always been a fancy meal among Iranians and it still is being served at special events and dinner parties.

Iranian top Souvenirs: caviar

Iran owns the most expensive caviar in the world which is known as Almas Beluga Caviar.

Pistachio

If you didn’t know already, pistachios require cool winters and hot summers to grow. Iran as one of the rare countries that has all of the four seasons, is one of the best regions to produce pistachios. You can only find the best quality pistachios in the world in Iran. Rafsanjan City, in Kerman Province, is the main source of production of Iran’s pistachios. The lemon roasted and lightly salted pistachios are always served in Nowruz among other kinds of nuts. Take some tasty Persian pistachios with you as a souvenir, so you can celebrate with Iranians, by enjoying some pistachios during Nowruz.

Iranian Pistachio: Souvenirs to buy in Iran

Top souvenirs buy in Iran: High-quality Pistachio

Gaz

This sweet and delicious Persian nougat called Gaz is extremely popular among Iranians that you can almost find them in every house or shop in Iran. Isfahan is where Gaz was originated, and this Persian nougat is actually one of Isfahan’s famous souvenirs. So whenever Iranians travel to Isfahan from other cities, nearly all of their family and friends expect them to bring Gaz for them as souvenirs. Gaz is also served in Persian ceremonies such as Nowruz. The tasty nougat is usually served with a hot cup of tea in order to sweeten the bitterness of the tea.

Persian souvenir: Gaz

This sweet and delicious Persian nougat called Gaz is extremely popular among Iranians.

Persian Turquoise

You might be wondering what is so special about Persian turquoise; the pure sky-blue color of Persian turquoise can only be found in Persian mines and that’s what makes them so rare. The turquoise gemstone is also considered to bring peace to the home and fortune to its owner. It is also believed that this particular stone could actually decrease the amount of negative energy. You can see a lot of Iranian women like wearing necklaces or bracelets made out of turquoise as well. Turquoise was also used in ancient Persian architecture; for instance, they used turquoise to cover the domes or design the palaces with its stunning and calming color.

Persian turquoise

The turquoise gemstone appear in variety of forms and in different objects ranging from ring to necklace and even decorative dishes.

Persian Handicrafts

These types of souvenirs are the only kind that have a vast range of variety. For instance, Persian clothing is a good choice. You can buy handmade masks that women wear along with their colorful and traditional clothes in southern region of Iran, or other regions’ traditional clothing with paisley or different Persian patterns on them.

Souvenirs to buy in Iran - Handicrafts

Patedoozi: a kind of popular handicraft made by Kermani women in Iran.

You also might be interested in handmade Persian espadrilles which are highly comfortable for a walk in summertime. If you’re not into clothing, then you can choose some home furnishing such as pillow covers for your couches, or enamel work plates, hand-painted vases and ceramics, tea sets or other decorative items that would remind you of Iran. Traveling to Iran is truly a rewarding journey for you. We would welcome any inquiry you may have about traveling to Iran, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@idt.ir.

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

Iran Bazzars

best places for shopping in Iran + Photos, Timing

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There is a fact that shopping is good for mental health. So, when you go shopping, don’t hesitate to buy something that you find interesting or beautiful as long as it’s not a waste of money. There are thousands of shops available that you can go shopping in Iran, but there are some shops like grand bazaars or luxurious malls that are waiting for you to visit them and hopefully change your mood to 100% happiness.

If you have planned to visit Iran, here is the link to more information on Iran online visa. To consult us about tours to Iran, please contact us via info@idt.ir.

Tehran

Grand Bazaar

Shopping in Grand Bazaar of Tehran feels so alive and old at the same time. The ancient structure along with kind and friendly locals, spread a good feeling through the environment. While taking a flashback through the history of old Tehran, look around the shops to almost find whatever you want. The shops are not the only things that are so popular among Iranians. The restaurants that serve the most delicious traditional meals are so loved by Iranians that they won’t leave the bazaar until they get a good taste of their favorite Persian meals. If you chose to go shopping at Grand Bazaar of Tehran, make sure to check out the famous restaurants like Moslem to have the most fun out of your shopping experience.

Opening hours: 9 am – 6 pm

The ancient structure along with kind and friendly locals, spread a good feeling through the environment of Tehran Grand Bazaar.

Bamland Shopping Mall

Even though Bamland is located in the far western part of the city, but that’s the last thing you need to worry about when it comes to shopping and having fun. What makes shopping much more fun in Bamland is the fact that you can walk along the lake whenever you felt tired or needed something refreshing. Or else if you wanted something more fun to do, you can go for a boat riding in the lake or play some VR games at the virtual reality center. The indoors and outdoors restaurants are the best part of the Bamland. Various types of food and restaurants make it almost too hard to make a choice, but any of them that you choose are amazing in their way and their foods are mouth-watering.

Opening hours: 11 am – 11 pm

Best places for shopping in Iran

Bamland Shopping Mall, Tehran, Iran

Tabriz

Grand Bazaar

If you ever traveled to Tabriz and were looking for souvenirs to buy, Tabriz Grand Bazaar is a great place to start. It’s good to know that Tabriz Grand Bazaar origins back in the Qajar era and is the largest covered bazaar in the world. It is also one of the UNESCO World heritage sites. You can find almost all sorts of things in this particular bazaar. There are a lot of handmade products and delicacies. The carpet market and hand-knotted woolen rugs are the most attractive part of the bazaar. While visiting Tabriz Grand Bazaar, you kill two birds with one stone by wondering around the ancient bazaar and shopping at the same time.

Opening hours: 6:30 am – 9 pm

Tabriz Grand Bazaar

The carpet market and hand-knotted woolen rugs are the most attractive part of Tabriz Grand Bazaar.

Laleh Park Mall

Visiting a brand new huge shopping mall in Tabriz is a great way to spend time with family and friends. There are countless floors of all sorts of brands which you can buy clothes or shoes from with reasonable prices. If you needed a break from the shopping, drinking a hot cup of coffee at cozy cafes or eating at the food court are great choices. At the food court floor, you can find different kinds of food that you desire. There’s also a playground for children to play while you eat or keep on shopping.

Opening hours: 10:30 am – 10:30 pm

Isfahan

Naghshe Jahan Bazaar

This bazaar is located all around the Naghshe Jahan Square, and it’s famous for its handicrafts and souvenirs. All sorts of goods, such as silverware and traditional ceramics, spices, jewelry, or Persian carpets, could be found in these little shops. You can purchase many luxury products much cheaper here than anywhere else. Try some traditional Persian nougat or other delicacies on your way to other stalls of shops. Stroll along the shops and cafes while you search for Persian handicrafts or souvenirs to take home with you as a memorial.

Opening hours: 10 am – 8 pm

City Center Mall

If you were looking for a more modern sight to explore or a place to go shopping as well, you could make sure that City Center Mall is the one. Isfahan City Center has so many different attractions to offer as one of the largest shopping malls in Iran. Besides the food court that has various kinds of restaurants to choose, there are cinemas, museums, a spa, and an indoor amusement park for kids. Enjoy your meal at the peaceful VIP restaurant with live piano playing in the background and make a memorable memory with the things you bought.

Opening hours: 10 am – 11 pm

Best places for shopping in Iran : Isfahan city center

Isfahan City Center has so many different attractions to offer as one of the largest shopping malls in Iran.

Shiraz

Vakil Bazaar

When you travel to Shiraz, there’s no way that you miss visiting Vakil Bazaar, which is a great place to look for souvenirs. If you want to buy good quality and original Persian handicrafts, make sure to visit this place. This bazaar is located in the historical region of Shiraz, so while you learn more about Iran’s history and culture, you can shop as well. The shopkeepers and people are so kind and friendly and will help you with your shopping. It would take you a whole day to visit the entire bazaar, but you can take a break in some of the cafes or restaurants around.

Opening hours: 9 am – 5 pm

If you want to buy good quality and original Persian handicrafts, make sure to visit Vakil Bazaar in Shiraz.

Persian Gulf Complex

If you’re looking for a place to shop and have fun meanwhile in Shiraz, then Persian Gulf Complex is the perfect choice. Being one of the largest shopping malls in Iran, the Persian Gulf Complex has provided so many entertainments for its visitors. A huge bowling center alongside with billiard ones to have fun with your family and friends, after wandering around the shops is one of them.

Shopping in Iran - Shiraz

Being one of the largest shopping malls in Iran, the Persian Gulf Complex has provided so many entertainments for its visitors.

You can also taste the delicious foods at the food court. The shopping mall is modern and luxurious, and it’s in contrast with other attractions you might want to see in Shiraz, but if you felt like shopping, you can count on this one.

Opening hours: 10 am – 11 pm

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

Yazd attractions

Yazd attractions infographic

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Yazd, also well-known as the city of windcatchers, is located between the northern Dasht-e Kavir and the southern Dasht-e Lut and is absolutely a city of the desert. The windcatchers and mud-brick houses are well representatives of a typical city of the desert.
Yazd is also well-known for its picturesque rooftops, which is of utmost attraction to many photographers.
Besides, Yazd used to be one of the main places of Zoroastrianism, the ancient monotheistic religion, around 3500 years ago and is still considered the center of Zoroastrianism in Iran. This has caused the city to be the home to several religious sites in Iran. These historic religious sites include the Fire Temple containing a central fire that has allegedly been burning since the 5th century A.D, Chak Chak, Iran’s most significant Zoroastrian pilgrimage site, and Yazd Towers of Silence.
Other attractions in Yazd include Dowlatabad garden embracing the tallest wind tower in the world and the well-preserved, still inhabited Old Town in Yazd with the yellow-brown of the mud-brick buildings.

All these beauties have made the city a delightful destination for tourists traveling to Iran. There is a lot to be visited here in Yazd, incorporate it into your travel list to Iran! we would welcome any inquiry you may have about traveling to Iran, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@idt.ir. We will come back to you soon.

Yazd attraction

To see and download the high-quality infographic, click here: Yazd attractions infographic.

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

Bushehr

Things to do in Bushehr (Photos, info)

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The lovely city of Bushehr is famous for its impressive and peaceful coast, and amazing traditional architecture which has made it a fascinating destination for many visitors. If you have decided to have a tour to Iran, you will witness a combination of architecture, fascinating coast, and tasty local food in Bushehr.  To consult us about tours to Iran, please do not hesitate to send an email to info@idt.ir. Stick with us to know more about Bushehr tourist attractions and the things you can do in this city.

Jashkak Salt Mountain

If you travel to Bushehr and had the opportunity to visit around the port of Bushehr, do not miss visiting the salt dome of Jashkak, particularly as a nature lover. This salt mountain is one of the most attractive sights of Bushehr. Salt domes are large layers of underground salts that have moved toward the surface of the earth and resemble amazing domes.
Jashkak Salt Dome is one of the most beautiful salt domes in the Middle East that is still active. This unique salt mountain is 12 km long and 4.5 km wide. What distinguishes this salt dome from other salt domes is the presence of caves, waterfalls, crystals, and the type of salt on this mountain.

Jashkak salt Mt. - Bushehr

This salt mountain is one of the most attractive sights of Bushehr.

Malek mansion; The house of the richest man in Bushehr

Malek Mansion, which is located six kilometers from Bushehr, is one of the historical monuments of this city, which was built during the Qajar period and dates back to 100 years. The owner of this mansion was a famous and rich merchant of Bushehr named “Mohammad Mehdi Malek Al-Tojjar”.
Built by French architects in the style of old buildings in the Persian Gulf with local materials, this building is actually a complex with different sections such as formal meeting halls downstairs, banquets and private parties upstairs, The fort, the emperor and the various rooms and porches as well as the courtyards are nested. The mansion became a military base in the years following the British occupation.

Malek-Mansion - Bushehr

Dating back to 100 years ago, this beautiful mansion used to be the house of a rich person in Bushehr that attracts many visitors today.

Dehdashti House

Bushehr has many beautiful old houses with fascinating atmospheres and Dehdashti house is one of them. This house is a relic of the Qajar period, with a delightful courtyard, gorgeous exterior, and lovely interior design. In the exterior, coral stones and wood have been used and the walls inside the building are plastered and oil paintings can be seen in the rooms.
Dehdashti house or mansion is located in the old part of the city, where there are neighborhoods with old houses, and in its alleys, you will find beautiful cafes.

Dehdashti House

This house is a relic of the Qajar period, about 100 years ago, with a delightful courtyard, gorgeous exterior, and lovely interior design.

Goor Dokhtar, forgotten tomb

If you are interested in the history of ancient Iran, get a little away from the port during your trip to Bushehr and visit Goor Dokhtar. Dating back to around 600 BC, there are arguments about who the tomb belongs to.
Looking very much like Cyrus the Great Tomb, some attribute Goor Dokhtar to Mandana, Cyrus ‘mother, and some believe that Atossa, Cyrus’ daughter, was buried in this place. There are even legends about the burial of Cyrus I (not Cyrus the Great) in this tomb. The girl’s tomb is made of 24 pieces of stone and its appearance is similar to the tomb of Cyrus the Great.

Goor Dokhtar - Bushehr

Looking very much like Cyrus the Great Tomb, there are many legends about this tomb.

Palm Groves

Palm Groves is like a jewel on the ring of Bushehr province. Dashtestan city and Abpakhsh have the largest number of palms in this region. The lush and tall groves at the entrance to the city of Abpakhsh have created a very spectacular landscape in this area and travelers often do not pass without stopping. The presence of water-filled canals on both sides of the entrance to the city has given a special “freshness” to this area so that travelers during Nowruz (the beginning of the new year in Iran) can enjoy water and nature together. These groves offer a high variety of dates; in addition to dates, citrus fruits, lemons, pomegranates also grow in these areas.

Palm groves

These groves offer a high variety of dates in Bushehr.

The Beach

One of the most beautiful attractions of Bushehr is its unique beach. It lasts about 8 months of the year. This province has the longest coastline in the country and is famous for its amazingly beautiful coast in the country. It is said that years ago, a British politician described Bushehr as a city with a fascinating beach landscape when you look at it from a distance on a ship, it looks like it is half in the water and the shore is not recognizable.

Bushehr-beach

Bushehr has the longest coastline in the country and is famous for its amazingly beautiful and lovely coast.

Bushehr Bazaar

Bushehr Old Bazaar is the main center of trade in the city just like other cities in Iran. The bazaar was established during the Qajar period with the beautiful and spectacular architecture of that time. The most amazing feature about its architecture is that it let the light enters the market, but when it snows and rains, water does not penetrate into the market. If you are planning to buy souvenirs for your loved ones, the old market is the best place to visit.

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

Susa attractions

Susa attractions infographic

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Located in the south-west of Iran, on the foothill of Zagros Mountain, 7000 years old Susa is still shining as one of the first places of ancient civilizations in the world. Urbanizations and also the development of early state took place here for the first time in the world’s history.

Having been the capital of Iran during Elamite, Susa embraces several architectural masterpieces which are quite eye-catching to every visitor. And the interesting point is that history has been documented in this city and they were the very first people who invented script, and more surprisingly, this was not their only amazing invention. Elamites earned many achievements in writing, architecture, sculpture, melting glass, and metalwork. And all these achievements along with natural attractions have made Susa a lovely destination worthy of visiting.

Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat, constructed 3200 years ago, is the greatest Ziggurat in the world which is a well-representative of Elamite’s art and architecture. It was a five-floor temple of Elamites with seven gates around and inscriptions with Elamite’s alphabets on its bricks. This great construction has been registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List and attracts many tourists from around the world every year.

People in Susa and in Khuzestan province are known for being hospitable and the local food here is pretty delicious. Traveling to this city to visit all glorious monuments, and meet warm-hearted people will be one of your life-long experiences you will never forget about.

Susa attractions Infographic

To see and download the high-quality infographic, click here: Susa attractions infografic. We would welcome any inquiry you may have about traveling to Iran, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@idt.ir.

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

Iran travel budget

Accommodation, Food & Telecom Price in Iran (Iran travel budget p2)

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Well, once we arrived and changed some precious money avoiding traps described in Iran budget travel – part one, several next challenges appear – mainly where to stay, how to move in the cities and inside the country, find good and inexpensive food, and telecom service.

In Iran, Couchsurfing is very popular and many will be happy to host a foreign traveler; if someone likes this kind of experience, it can be a good idea. Just remember, you will need a VPN app to use it in Iran. If however, it is not your preferred way – in Iran, there are hundreds of hostels and cheap hotels.

The main international resource in the case of hostels is www.hostelworld.com, full description and lots of travelers’ reviews will help in your choice, but you can check also the local smaller web www.hostelsiniran.com.

As of December 2019, there are lots of hostels, also in Tehran, offering stay with unlimited breakfast for 4 or 5 euros/night; in dorms of course. The hostel staff is usually very well informed about all your possible questions, speaks good English and can give you advice about local landmarks and how to get there.

As for the typical hostel breakfast, you can have a look here (based on Heritage Hostel, Tehran): My Persian breakfast experience in Iran.

Interestingly, while dorms are now incredibly cheap – these hostels have also some private rooms offered on rather prohibitive 20 to 30 euro prices. Just in case a desire for a small luxury becomes irresistible – there are cheap “1-star hotels” in many less touristic places – in Tehran for example in South Saadi street (close enough to metro Saadi and Great Bazaar). Just asking for curiosity (without trying to bargain), I was offered private rooms for 800 000 rials, some 7 euros – but no breakfast included. These hotels serve mainly locals and hardly you can find them on English language websites, so if interested – ask Iranians (in case you do not find them walking around).

Next comes the transport. About the Tehran public transport, regular taxis and Iran taxi apps you will find more here: Public transportation in Tehran

In other Iranian cities using public transport, consisting mainly of common buses will be a bit difficult without a local helpful to tell you which line of local bus is best for you. I stayed several days in Shiraz and found out how to use to my benefit 2 or 3 bus lines, avoiding kilometric marches. There is always one linking bus terminal in the city center, others to run along main streets, it is good to use them, tickets are very cheap, people pay for drivers.  If you need to go to a specific place far away and have no way to use the city bus – try in first place Snapp, the local Uber-like service. Try to avoid a regular taxi if possible!

By the way, in other big Iranian cities there is a limited metro service, (networks are under construction), actually consisting of 2 lines in Mashhad and just one operating in Tabriz, Esfahan, and Shiraz. On some occasions it can be also useful for tourists, so – why not try?

The most budget-friendly way to travel across Iran is without any doubt by using intercity buses. Even more, the night buses – saving you a hostel fee and also a full day for a new destination.

Tehran has 4 bus terminals, other cities just 1 or 2 – from each one you can pick a normal (Maamuli) or luxury (VIP) intercity bus. Maamuli is a typical tourist bus, usually not the newest one, with some 50 passenger capacity. Another story for VIP – luxury extra large seats, lots of space for legs, great comfort during the journey, some 25 seats altogether – obviously the best choice for a long journey. Unfortunately, there is the price tag – VIP costs around 80% more than a normal bus, to give a fresh example, my recent trip Babolsar – Tehran, some 200 km: Maamuli 240 000 rials (2 euros) vs. VIP 420 000 rials (3.7 euros). Btw in any Iranian bus voyage, there is a bottle of water and a small snack included!

The best way is to ask an Iranian to book for you using local websites – or doing yourself a trip to terminal, there are at least several companies and their hawkers, initially insisting you should take a VIP bus. If you resist and insist on Maamuli, you will be able to buy the cheaper one, of course!

Avoid English language bus booking sites directed to tourists – it is easy, but you’ll pay double or triple. For example on one such “helpful” website, my Tehran – Babolsar tickets were for “only” 5 euro – in real exchange 700 000 rials at that moment –  for Maamuli bus – while I paid for the same ticket 240 000 rials (2 euros), like normal Iranians, at the bus station.

There is quite a good railways network, but tickets are more expensive, and often no places available in immediate days. As for local airlines, it can be an idea in case you want to do a really long jump –  f. ex. Tehran – Bandar Abbas flight can cost around 30 euro (at this time). Always ask an Iranian to help you, using local booking sites; if you do it by an agency or English language website – you will pay more.

BlaBlaCar does not include Iran, unfortunately (neither AirBnB).

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

Mohamadali ashraf vaghefi

Coronavirus and the threats to the future of tourism in Iran

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Mohammad Ali Vaghefi, the vice president of the Iranian Tour Operators Association had an online interview with Marketing and Advertising Manager at the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts discussing the state of domestic and international tourism in Iran.

He admitted that 90% of the 2020 incoming tours to Iran have been canceled So far, and there is a high possibility of canceling the remaining 10%. However, many foreign agencies are already asking Iranian agencies for their travel package price in 2021. Many Iranian hotels, transportation companies, and travel agencies including Iran Doostan have predicted the requirements for traveling to Iran in this situation, and we are prepared to welcome our dear tourists, individually or in a group, considering all health protocols.

Mr. Vaghefi’s analysis of the situation, as a manager with more than 30 years of experience, is that domestic travel in Iran will be established first, and then demands in the travel sector will be raised by tourists with private vehicles. Many tourists prefer to go camping in nature and stay in tents or even rent a villa and disinfect it instead of booking a hotel room.

Regarding international travel, he believes that by resuming travels, there will be long lines for health control. Sanitary products and alcohol-based stuff will be added to the accessories that the tourist must hold. Passengers are required to receive travel insurance. The number of visitors and the number of visits to historical places and museums will decline, and by observing the slightest sign of illness, the person is excluded from the tour.

He continued: “We expect that demand for nature tourism will grow, and traveling in a group will be less frequent. Our tourism partners in other countries are already asking for a price of groups of one to eight people.” As a result, with regard to the health protocol, the cost of travel services, including plane tickets will increase and travel will become a luxury service.

At the end of the discussion Mr. Vaghefi asked for the government’s help to this sector, and

expressed his concerns this way: “In this situation, the government should contribute to the tourism industry.” It is important to keep the industry alive, the most important thing that should be considered is to keep the employees of the sector. It may take about four years for us to find a replacement for the specialized workforces that have left the profession.

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

solar eclipse

solar eclipse 2020 in Iran – See the photos; how it looked like

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Today, on June 21, 2020, Iran observed an annual solar eclipse starting at 9:05 and finished at 11:37 in the morning.

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, and the moon casts a shadow over Earth which fully or partially blocks sunlight.
In a total eclipse, the disk of the Sun is fully obscured by the Moon. In partial and annular eclipses, only part of the Sun is obscured.

Today’s eclipse was a kind of ring eclipse that make it partially invisible for most people around the world. Unlike, lunar eclipse, it is important where you are standing on Earth when a solar eclipse occurs.

solar eclipse

Solar eclipse in Iran- 21 June 2020. Photo by: Mehr News Agency

The eclipse starts from central Africa, passes through Yemen and southern Iran, and moves toward Pakistan, India, China, and the Pacific Ocean. In Iran, the eclipse was mostly visible in Chabahar, a city in the far southeast of the country.

This was the last solar eclipse of the century in Iran, happening on the first day of summer.

A solar eclipse is an astronomical phenomenon, which is considered a natural tourist attraction. Since it looks different in various parts of Earth, many astronomy lovers travel around the world, often to the spots where the eclipse is most observable, not to miss this phenomenon. However, the present lockdown situation barely let people travel to see this event.

Qeshm Island

Top 4 Iran Less-known Places to Visit

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There are hundreds of wonderful places, some of which are well-known to all visiting tourists, but there are a few rather less-known places to visit in Iran. I will introduce four of these off-the-beaten-path places I have loved visiting in Iran.

Qeshm Island

The largest Persian Gulf island does not make part of the standard Iran tour most tourists follow – but nevertheless is among the most interesting places for those who can stay for more than one week in the country. Located in the Hormuz Strait, close to Bandar Abbas port, the island offers several unique amazing spots as well as the possibility of practicing sports, snorkeling, diving, watching turtles and dolphins – or simply relaxing on its warm beaches.

Its main wonders include the unique geological natural wonder Stars Valley, Mangrove Forest to visit by small boat and a huge colorful salt cave. You can stay in traditional Hormuzi guesthouses, try local fish-based food and you definitely will meet many lovely camels, a frequent sight on this island, and in some parts of the Deep South of Iran.

In the main city, also called Qeshm, is located an old Portuguese fort – in fact, Portugal controlled the Strait of Hormuz for more than 100 years and a couple of their castles survived until our days.

Curiously Qeshm, as well as the smaller and more luxury-oriented Island of Kish island, enjoys a kind of tax-free regime, hence it is a destination of shopping trips for many Iranians.
Definitely not a place to go during very hot summers, Qeshm will charm you from early fall to late spring. You can arrive by fast ferries or by place. Once there, you can visit nearby Hormuz and Hendan islands, too.

places to visit in Iran

Iran’s less-known places

Khararanagh Adobe Ghost Town

Situated not far away from Yazd, this incredible place consists of hundreds of small adobe houses, usually connected between them, slowly degrading with each year passing…Hundreds of years old dwellings, still bustling with life some 30 years ago, were left by its inhabitants for modern homes with gas and water. Others left for big cities… It is a strange sensation, walking around and inside these domes, so small for our standards, aware of generations that passed their lives just there.

Kharanagh has situated some 80 km from Yazd, usually, you can visit it on “3 in 1 tour”, together with Chak Chak Zoroastrian holy place and the ancient city of Meybod. Iran, Yazd province, the edge of the Dasht-e Kavir desert, Kharanaq old village with its mud bricks (adobe) houses overlooking the Andjir valley. Khararanagh, this abandoned village, made entirely of adobe, invites visitors to step back in time and imagine life as it once was. Wandering through crumbling structures is an unforgettable adventure.

places to visit in Iran

Yazd, Khararanagh Adobe Ghost Town 

Makhunik Liliput Village

For some factors, during a couple of centuries, like lack of green land to feed animals, that forced people to a rather poor vegetable diet for all their life, and near-total isolation of the small population – when “discovered” about 100 years ago, the Makhunik villagers became quite famous for their small stature – having in average about 130 cm. For that reason, you can imagine their adobe houses were also very low, often round, and usually only one small window –  to keep warm and save heating during harsh winters.

Actually, with a road finally open, a changed diet, and mixed marriages, more and more inhabitants are average tall, but while visiting Makhunik you will surely meet older people proud of their unique look and living in those picturesque little houses. Makhunik is a fascinating destination with a unique history. The mystery and charm of Makhunik make it a must-visit for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
The village is located in South Khorasan province, best to visit in spring or fall time.

Ray, Ancient City in Tehran Metropolitan Area

While for most tourists Tehran is the point of entry to Iran and the place they stay first few days visiting its museums and landmarks – it is very easy to miss a much older city, that actually makes up part of the huge and growing Tehran metropolis. Fortunately, Shahr e Ray (City of Ray) is now easily connected thanks to the metro network, and it takes less than half an hour to reach it from the center of the capital. While Tehran itself was a small town until becoming Persia’s capital in 1795, Ray located south of it was a thriving big city for over 2000 years.

Toghrol Tower Rey City

Toghrol Tower in Rey City

Although destroyed heavily during Mongol invasions, Rey offers several interesting landmarks, as wonderful Emamzadeh Abdol-Azim shrine (place of prayer and pilgrimage, but open to anyone), Rashkan Castle on the hill, Chesmeh Ali rock reliefs and famous Seljuk period Tughrul Tower.

The simplest way to reach this ancient city is by metro Red Line direction south, station Shahr e Rey. To stations further south there is a really huge, beautiful, recently built shrine (some decoration works inside and outside are still ongoing) of Emam Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran (also open for everyone).

Last Words

Iran is home to many extraordinary and lesser-known destinations that are absolutely worth exploring. Among these remarkable places are Makhunik Liliput Village, Khararanagh Adobe Ghost Town, and Qeshm Island. These remarkable destinations showcase Iran’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and unique cultural heritage. Travelers seeking a truly unforgettable experience should definitely consider visiting Makhunik Liliput Village, Khararanagh Adobe Ghost Town, and Qeshm Island at least once in their lifetime.

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Iran Flights, Visa & Money (Iran Budget Travel P1)

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In this article, I would like to present some information and tips, hopefully, useful for “hard budget” travelers, with limited means but nevertheless dreaming of exploring the ancient land of Persia. As it was exactly my case, I am glad to share my experience in Iran travel costs!

Iran visa

While most Europeans (with the notable exception of UK) can obtain VOA in Iran’s several main airports, this obviously closes the possibility to arrive in other ways – by land or sea.
If you arrange an electronic visa before coming to Iran and are not in rush – you will be able to spice up your trip by making your journey a bit more adventurous and at least having a glance of some South Caucasus countries – while using well known European low-cost airlines.

Economic flight to Iran

Wizzair already connects Kutaisi in Georgia with lots of European cities; recently also Ryanair opened some connections with Kutaisi and Tbilisi. From amazing Tbilisi, it is possible to take a bus to Tehran, transiting Armenia and admiring towns and mountain roads. The bus price recently was around 60 euro, but take note that its some 30 h trip. Georgia and Armenia are visa-free for most Western nationals.
Otherwise, there is also the Wizzair connection Budapest-Baku, often around 50 euro, but in such a case you probably need also Azerbaijan e-visa that costs some 20 euro. There are bus and train connections to Tabriz or Tehran, or you can cross the Astara border and continue by exploring wonderful Green Paradise of Caspian areas of North Iran.
In case you come from Russia, Azerbaijani Buta Airways offers good prices Moscow to Tehran, via Baku.
Otherwise, as I did myself – the cheapest flight from many European countries is with Pegasus Airlines, a Turkish near-low cost company, obviously via Istanbul Sabiha Airport. In some periods of last year, there were prices (hand luggage only) of around 80 euro, one-way ticket – even from so faraway places as Madrid.
OK, so assuming you came to Iran you will need to stay somewhere, travel inside the country try local food – the good news is that it is very low actually, as long as you stay within “Iranian Price Space” by what I mean avoiding being corralled into specific services for foreign tourists, at much higher prices.
So, let’s talk about money – and here the fun starts! There are 2 money units in practice and 2 parallel foreign exchanges! Isn’t it wonderful?
Important – because of long time USA sanctions, no foreign bank card of any kind works in Iran. You must take CASH (euro or dollars) with you.
Any online source indicates that the official money of IRI is RIAL, nevertheless, Iranians with strange determination keep using the old unit, TOMAN – that worth 10 Rials, and nearly all prices are indicated in this unit: in shops, bazaars, taxis, etc. So, it is very confusing at the beginning, especially as we use hundreds of thousands and millions (of Rials – as these are the notes) on a daily basis.
Another initial tourist trap is the exchange rate. As said, there are two, government one and the real one. The real one does not mean the black market, as you change legally in exchange shops – that pay you 3-4 times more than banks on the same street, (as the banks by law must follow the Central Bank rates)! Doesn’t look a bit strange?

Everything about Iran money (Rial)

Because of recent sanctions and a de facto economic blockade, Iran’s Rial has lost its value compared to euro and dollar. If 3 years ago 1 euro was about 40 000 Rials, in October 2019 it was around 120 000 and in mid–December 2019 it is around 150 000 Rials – or as Iranians would say 15 000 Tomans.
Depending on many domestic or international factors Rial’s exchange can jump up or down (usually up) and it is absolutely crucial to check the latest rates on https://www.bonbast.com/.
What about other, Central Bank of Iran rate – it is for local importers and for other legitimate cases. The government keeps this rate, so they can buy dollars or euros at an easier price. However, it has nothing to do with tourists; as today, this rate for 1 euro is around 46 000 Rials – so, simply do not use banks to exchange your money, go only to private exchange points.
Be careful, the trap can wait for you in first minutes of your stay in Iran – while in need to change some money in Tehran Emam Khomeini airport, and wandering around – I was approached by a nice smart looking guy offering me to exchange my euros, giving me “very good rate” some 5000 Rials over the “official bank exchange” – of course showing me on his smartphone the exchange table of Central Bank in English!
Fortunately, I knew the real rate. Take note, on the second floor of the Emam Khomeini airport there is a money exchange shop, giving you quite good rates, so go there to change for the first needs.
Very important – with this fast depreciation, nobody knows how will be Rial exchange rate in 1 or 2 weeks – so do not exchange all money at once, but little by little, following your needs.
In Tehran, most of the exchange points are located in Ferdowsi Square (also metro station) and around, mainly on Ferdowsi street. Avoid black market dealers, that hang around and will approach you – they pay LESS than exchange shops and the same can even cheat you with fake or outdated notes.
Actually, most used note it is 100 000 Rials; the next bigger (and the biggest until now) note is 500 000 Rial; 3 years ago it had a somehow serious value of quite 15 euro – and as today is worth a bit over 3 euro in free exchange… for these reasons the smallest notes of 1000 and 2000 Rial notes and especially the coins, are nowadays rarely used.

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