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Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Golestan Palace Summary
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| Public website: | www.golestanpalace.ir |
Iran – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| 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. |
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| 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 |
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| Ashura (Varies) |
A religious holiday observed with mourning ceremonies, especially in Shia communities |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 110 (Police), 115 (Ambulance) |
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| 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 Golestan Palace, Iran
Nowruz holidays around 20 March to April 2: Iranian domestic travel peaks and many shops and offices close
Air pollution is worst from November to January, when smog can hide the city's mountain backdrop
Don't miss
- ✨ Admire dazzling mirror mosaics in the Hall of Mirrors
- 👑 Visit the Marble Throne and royal ceremonial halls
- 🌺 Stroll the lush Persian gardens around the palace
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Golestan Palace, meaning 'Palace of the Flowers', is one of Tehran’s oldest historic monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Originally part of the Safavid citadel, it was extensively rebuilt during the Qajar dynasty in the 18th and 19th centuries, serving as the seat of power and royal residence.
The palace complex combines traditional Persian architecture with European influences, featuring lavish tile work, mirrored halls and grand ceremonial spaces like the Marble Throne Hall. The Shams-ol-Emareh Tower offers historic panoramic views of the city.
The tranquil surrounding gardens provide a peaceful retreat amid the urban hustle, embellished with fountains and floral designs. The palace houses important collections of jewelry, paintings and gifts bestowed upon the Qajar kings, reflecting Iran’s rich cultural heritage.
Visitors should note that some areas can feel quite crowded during peak times and photography restrictions apply in certain rooms. The palace’s historic significance and intricate artistry offer rewarding experiences for those interested in history, art and architecture.
Knowledge before you go
- Buy full complex ticket for access to all 17 palaces.
- Allocate 3-4 hours to explore Mirror Hall, Marble Throne and stunning gardens thoroughly.
- No flash photography inside; respect dress code and silence in royal chambers.
- UNESCO site blending Qajar Persian artistry with European mirrors, chandeliers; coronation site of Pahlavi shahs.
How to travel to Golestan Palace
Golestan Palace is located in central Tehran, close to the Grand Bazaar and accessible by taxi, bus or metro (Golestan Station nearby). International travelers usually arrive at Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport, then take a taxi or public transit to central Tehran.
Access summary
- From Imam Khomeini Airport (IKA): Taxi into central Tehran, around 60–80 min.
- From central Tehran: Metro Line 1 to 15 Khordad, then 5–10 min walk.
- From Mehrabad Airport: Metro/taxi connection to Line 1, total about 40–60 min.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay near Golestan Palace
Accommodation is available in central Tehran, ranging from budget to mid-range hotels, offering convenient access to Golestan Palace and the city’s historic district.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
We couldn't find any nearby hotels for now.
Packing recommendations for Golestan Palace
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
🚰
Reusable water bottle
🎒
Small rucksack
🧣
Scarf
for sun protection
🧶
Light jumper
🔋
Power bank
👒
Sun hat
for sun protection
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
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 the region are around 80% 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.
Safety information overview
General safety
Golestan Palace in Tehran is generally safe for visitors, with well‑patrolled security and a strong police presence. Tourists should avoid large crowds during political events, stay alert to pickpocketing in busy areas and follow local advisories on travel routes.
Accessibility
Golestan Palace in Tehran offers limited accessibility: some entrances have ramps, but many historic halls remain uneven and stair‑heavy. Wheelchair users should plan ahead for guided assistance; elevators are scarce, so mobility‑friendly visitors may face challenges navigating the complex.
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