A 10-day trip soaking up the immense beauty, history and culture of Iran, a nation teeming with beautiful ancient sites and creativity.
We start off in Tehran, the vibrant capital, a dynamic city blending modernity with history, offering stunning views of the Alborz mountains, which we also spend time in. We explore the city’s historic sites, visit some of its world-class museums and bustling bazaars.
We move on to Kashan, once one of the primary centers of civilization in pre-historic ages, visiting its impressive UNESCO sites, before we head to Isfahan, known as “half the world”. It’s a city which dazzles with its breathtaking Islamic architecture, along with its bazaars filled with makers and creatives.
Next is Yazd, a desert gem, filled with ancient mudbrick architecture, winding alleyways, and the peaceful ambiance of its Zoroastrian temples, offering an authentic glimpse into Iran’s past.
Finally we visit Shiraz, known as “the city of poets”. It’s the cultural capital of Iran, with ornate places and gardens, along with extensive beautiful historic sites. It’s during our stay in the city we take a day trip to Persepolis and Necropolis, the ancient Achaemenid capital, before finishing back in Shiraz.
Arrive in Tehran in the morning, transfer to hotel for briefing.
We begin our trip with a city tour of Tehran, were we will visit the carpet museum and the impressive Sa’dabad Complex, built by the Qajar and Pahlavi dynasties.
In the afternoon we take a hike along the mountain trail through Darband to view the scenery of Tehran from above.
Overnight in Tehran.
We continue exploring Tehran, starting at the Archeological (national) Museum.
The volume, diversity, and quality of the exhibits makes a visit to this museum a must and allows for an introduction to the history and features of sites seen later on the trip.
Later we will visit the UNESCO recognized Golestan Palace, a masterpiece of the Qajar era, and Shahyad (Azadi) tower as we drive to Kashan.
Overnight in Kashan.
Morning tour of Kashan, once one of the primary centers of civilization in pre-historic ages. Highlights of today are Tabatabaee historical house, Sultan Mir Ahmad Hammam, Fin Garden.
In the afternoon we continue our journey towards Isfahan, stopping at the UNESCO recognized village of Abyaneh on the way.
With a reddish hue to match the surrounding rust colored mountains, Abyaneh is one of the oldest settlements in Iran.
Overnight in Isfahan.
Full day exploring the wonders of Isfahan.
Isfahan entitled “Half the World” is the legendary city of traditional Islamic archeology and turquoise domes.
Todays visits will include Naqsh-e-Jahan Square, Sheikh Lotfollah and Jameh Abbasi Mosques, and the Aliqapu and Chehel Sutoon Palaces.
We will also stop at UNESCO recognized Jame’ mosque of Isfahan, a gallery which displays the progress of Islamic architecture, before we get lost in the local bazaar viewing traditional arts and crafts.
Overnight in Isfahan.
Early start with a visit to Vank Church, a a typical example of the Christian churches of Armenia. We then drive to Yazd, making multiple stops on the way.
Our first stop is in Varzaneh Desert and Salt Lake, offering a glimpse into the natural beauty of Iran’s desert landscape.
Next we will stop in the small town of Naein and its Jame Mosque, one of the first Islamic places of worship built in Iran.
Overnight in Yazd.
Full day exploring the desert mud-brick city of Yazd.
This ancient city which is decorated by stunning mosques is a combination of different religions. We will visit water museum, fire temple and Doulat Abad garden. Then explore the old city to see wind towers, Qanat, Jame Mosque and Henna pounding workshop.
Finally, we will head to Amir Chakhmagh square and Zurkhaneh, the old Persian gym.
Overnight in Yazd.
Today’s drive from Yazd to Shiraz will be broken up with stops at Zoroastrian Dakhmeh (Tower of Silence), Abarkouh and Pasargadae.
Abarkuh is a small city showcasing Iran’s desert architecture and is famous for an ancient cypress tree and four Qajar ice houses.
Pasargadae is the site of the two and a half thousand – year – old tomb of Cyrus the Great – the founder of Achaemenid Emperor.
Once we arrive in Shiraz we will also visit the Quran Gate.
Overnight in Shiraz.
Full day in Shiraz.
Located in the central south of the country, Shiraz is known as Iran’s cultural capital and the tombs of two of Iran’s most famous poets can be found in the city.
The day will be spent on a walking tour through the many highlights of the city, such as Karim Khan Palace, the Vakil Complex and Nasir Almolk Mosque, all will indulging in local poetry and music.
Overnight in Shiraz.
Day trip to Persepolis and Necropolis.
Founded by Darius I in18 B.C. as the Achaemenid capital, the ancient city or Persepolis lies at the foot of Kuh-e Rahmat and exhibits the cultural eclecticism of ancient Persian art and architecture.
Friezes depicting Achaemenid ceremonies and the nature’s bounty can be found among bull-topped columns, colonnaded halls, and huge archways.
Also look out for the remnants of the city’s sophisticated ancient water system.
Next, visit Necropolis, the magnificent burial place of Achaemenid kings.
Seven basreliefs dating back to the Elamite and Sassanid period are carved there as well.
In the evening, take part in a cooking class and enjoy a Shirazi home cooked meal.
Overnight in Shiraz.
Transfer to airport.
End of trip.
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