There is a travel warning issued for this country. Please check the website of your country's foreign office for the latest information.
Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Iran Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Iran – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Iranian Rial (IRR) £1 ≈ IRR 1,756,040 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Foreign credit and debit cards do not work in Iran because of international sanctions, so travellers must bring enough cash (euros or US dollars) to exchange. Locals mostly pay with domestic bank cards, and ride-hailing apps like Snapp are popular.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: | We cannot recommend an eSIM provider for this country. We advise getting a local SIM card. |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in Iran. In restaurants, leaving a small tip of around 5-10% is common. Taxi drivers do not expect tips, but rounding up fares is appreciated. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is illegal in Iran, and alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited. Alcohol is only available in private or special non-public establishments for non-Muslim minorities. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is generally allowed in outdoor public spaces and designated areas, but it is prohibited in many indoor public areas such as shopping centres and restaurants. |
| Nowruz (20 March) |
Iranian New Year, a major holiday celebrated with family gatherings and festivities |
|---|---|
| Ashura (Varies) |
A religious holiday observed with mourning ceremonies, especially in Shia communities |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 110 (Police), 115 (Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Snapp, Tap30 |
| Other: | Iran is home to a rich history and culture, including ancient sites like Persepolis and Isfahan. Travellers should be aware of the country's conservative social norms and regulations, particularly concerning dress code and behaviour. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Iran, Iran
Climate varies a lot by region: cities of the central plateau (Isfahan, Shiraz, Yazd) best March to May and September to November, Persian Gulf coast and islands best November to March, Caspian coast mild but humid in summer
Nowruz (Persian New Year), around 20 March to April 2: Iranians travel domestically, many shops and sights close, transport and hotels book out
Ramadan and Muharram (Ashura): daytime food options limited, many restaurants closed until sunset, mourning processions during Ashura
Don't miss
- 🕌 Admire intricate tilework at Isfahan’s Shah Mosque
- 🏛️ Wander through the ancient ruins of Persepolis
- 🌸 Stroll in Shiraz’s fragrant Persian gardens
- 🛍️ Explore the vibrant bazaars of Tehran and haggle for souvenirs
- 🌇 Watch sunset over Yazd’s windcatchers and mudbrick rooftops
- 🍵 Sip saffron tea and taste pistachios in a traditional teahouse
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Iran?
Iran's appeal lies in its remarkable historical and cultural richness. The country boasts 28 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the ancient ruins of Persepolis and the historic city of Yazd, showcasing over 7,000 years of civilization. Beyond the magnificent architecture and archaeological wonders, Iran offers diverse natural beauty from the Caspian Sea's lush coastline to desert landscapes. The country's renowned hospitality, exquisite cuisine and vibrant bazaars provide authentic cultural immersion. However, travelers should be aware of certain challenges. Political tensions and international sanctions can affect travel plans, so it's advisable to check current travel advisories before visiting. Strict dress codes apply, particularly for women who must wear headscarves in public. Alcohol is prohibited throughout the country. While major tourist areas have good infrastructure, language barriers may exist in more remote areas, though Iranians are generally welcoming to foreign visitors.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Tehran
A bustling capital in northern Iran, it offers a mix of historic mosques, bazaars and modern museums. The city’s layered history is visible in its architecture, while nearby parks provide green respite from urban life. -
2
Isfahan
A city renowned for its Persian architecture and historic bazaars, Isfahan showcases intricate tilework, grand bridges over the Zayandeh River and a vibrant cultural scene that reflects centuries of Islamic art and craftsmanship. -
3
Shiraz
A city renowned for its historic gardens and vibrant bazaars, Shiraz offers a blend of Persian poetry heritage and modern cultural life. Visitors can explore ancient tombs, lush parks and bustling markets that showcase traditional crafts and local cuisine. -
4
Yazd
A desert city in central Iran, Yazd is renowned for its wind towers, mud-brick architecture and ancient Zoroastrian fire temples. The narrow alleys of the old town reveal historic caravanserais, while the surrounding dunes offer a stark, timeless landscape. -
5
Tabriz
This historic city in northwestern Iran boasts ancient architecture, vibrant bazaars and mountainous landscapes. It offers a slower pace than Tehran, with traditional tea houses, colorful tilework and cultural festivals that showcase its rich heritage and welcoming atmosphere to visitors. -
6
Mashhad
A city of pilgrimage and commerce, Mashhad in Iran hosts the Imam Reza shrine, its towering turquoise domes framing a maze of historic bazaars. Visitors find a blend of reverence and vibrant street life; early mornings reveal quieter markets and authentic saffron‑spiced tea.
🏯Places worth seeing
-
1
Milad Tower
The Milad Tower stands as Tehran's modern landmark, offering panoramic city views from its observation decks. Its sleek design contrasts with historic surroundings, while nearby cafes and shopping areas provide a vibrant atmosphere for visitors exploring Iran's capital. -
2
Azadi Tower
The iconic Azadi Tower stands as Tehran's symbol of freedom, featuring a grand dome and minaret. Surrounded by bustling boulevards and green parks, it offers panoramic city views from its observation deck. -
3
Sa'd Abad Museum Complex
A sprawling museum complex in Tehran showcases Iran’s artistic heritage through extensive collections of ceramics, textiles and miniatures. The site offers guided tours, interactive exhibits and a central courtyard that highlights traditional Persian design. -
4
Tabiat Bridge
This pedestrian bridge spans the city's main avenue, offering panoramic views of Tehran's skyline and Tabiat Square. It serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike, connecting diverse neighborhoods while providing a scenic walkway above the bustling traffic below. -
5
Naqsh-e Jahan Square
-
6
Golestan Palace
-
7
Persepolis
-
8
Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque
-
9
Darband
-
10
Old Adobe City of Kharanaq
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
Nowruz (Persian New Year)
-
Tirgan Festival
-
Yalda Night Celebration
-
Chaharshanbe Suri
-
Ashura
-
Sizdah Bedar
-
Tehran International Book Fair
-
Fajr Film Festival
-
Golabgiri (Rose Water Festival)
-
Mehregan Festival
Knowledge before you go
- Visa required. Apply early via embassy or authorized agency.
- Women must wear headscarf and loose clothing covering arms and legs.
- No alcohol or pork; respect Islamic customs during prayer times daily.
- Use licensed guides for tours; independent travel restricted for many nationalities.
How to travel to Iran
Most international visitors arrive in Iran through major airports in Tehran (Imam Khomeini International Airport), Shiraz or Isfahan. As of March 2025, most nationalities require a visa to enter Iran, which can be obtained through Iranian embassies or as an e-visa. Some travelers may be eligible for visa on arrival. Note that having an Israeli stamp in your passport can cause entry issues. Iran doesn't stamp passports anymore, providing visas on separate papers instead, which is helpful for those who plan to visit countries that might restrict entry based on Iran travel history.
Access summary
- Tehran/central Iran: Fly to Imam Khomeini (IKA) from regional, some global hubs.
- Isfahan, Shiraz, Yazd: Connect via domestic flights from Tehran’s IKA or Mehrabad.
- Iran Air main flag carrier; not part of major global alliances.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Iran
Iran offers accommodations for every budget, from luxury hotels in major cities to traditional guesthouses. For unique experiences, consider staying in boutique hotels converted from historic mansions in cities like Kashan, Isfahan and Yazd. Budget travelers can find hostels starting from IRR 20 – 30 (£0 – 0) per night, while mid-range hotels typically cost IRR 40 – 80 (£0 – 0). Traditional Persian-style boutique hotels provide authentic cultural experiences with courtyard gardens and traditional architecture. Due to international sanctions, most international booking platforms don't list Iranian hotels, so booking through local agencies is often necessary.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
We couldn't find any nearby hotels for now.
How to get around Iran
Getting around Iran offers various options to suit different preferences and budgets. In major cities like Tehran, public transportation includes metro systems, buses and affordable taxis. For intercity travel, Iran has an extensive network of comfortable long-distance buses connecting most towns and cities. Domestic flights are recommended for longer distances due to the country's size. For exploring at your own pace, rental cars provide flexibility, though driving in congested cities can be challenging. The VIP buses between major cities offer comfortable overnight travel options.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Iran are around 79% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to IRR) is 97% better than in recent years. That means travelling now is a lot cheaper compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Iran is generally safe for tourists with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in crowded areas. Political demonstrations should be avoided. Women should adhere to dress codes requiring head coverings and modest clothing. Always respect local customs and laws.
Health & Medical
Major cities have good quality healthcare facilities, though services may be limited in rural areas. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. Bring any necessary prescription medications as some may be unavailable.
Accessibility
Accessibility varies widely across Iran. Major tourist attractions and newer facilities in cities offer some accessibility features, but historical sites, bazaars and older areas often present challenges with uneven surfaces, stairs and limited facilities for mobility-impaired travelers.
Tap water
Tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities, but many travelers prefer bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive. In rural areas, stick to bottled or purified water. Public drinking fountains are available in some tourist areas.
Packing recommendations for Iran
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
🕶️
Sunglasses
🧼
Hand sanitiser
🧣
Shawl or headscarf
for women
👛
Cash in small denominations
🧕
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
📱
Translation app or phrasebook
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
Type C/F plugs
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
Related articles & guides for Iran
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