14 Days Iran Tour: The Persian Journey

Welcome to Iran! Upon arrival at Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA), our team will meet and greet you before transferring you to your hotel in Tehran. The rest of the day is free to relax after your journey and prepare for the days ahead.

Overnight in Tehran

Today, we begin our exploration of Tehran, Iran's vibrant capital. Our first visit is to Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Qajar-era architecture in the city. The palace complex reflects the history of modern Tehran and the royal life of the Qajar dynasty.

We then walk to the Grand Bazaar of Tehran, the traditional commercial heart of the capital. Its long covered passages are divided into different sections, each specializing in particular goods. Walking through the bazaar offers a glimpse into everyday life and the lively atmosphere of Tehran.

Next, we visit the National Museum of Iran, the country's most important archaeological museum. Its collections include remarkable artifacts spanning thousands of years of Persian history, from prehistoric periods to the Islamic era.

Overnight in Tehran

Today, we head north of Tehran to explore some of the city's historic and mountainous areas. We begin with Sa'dabad Palace, a vast royal complex surrounded by gardens at the foot of the Alborz Mountains.

From Sa'dabad, we continue to Darband, a historic mountain village and popular local destination. We will walk through its traditional streets and enjoy the atmosphere of this scenic area.

Our exploration continues at Tajrish Bazaar, one of northern Tehran's most lively traditional markets. Nearby, we will also visit Imamzadeh Saleh, an important religious site and one of the well-known landmarks of the Tajrish area.

Overnight in Tehran

Today, we leave Tehran and travel south toward Kashan, a historic desert city famous for its Persian gardens, traditional houses, architecture, and rosewater production.

Our first stop is Fin Garden, one of the finest examples of traditional Persian garden design and part of the UNESCO-listed Persian Garden sites. Its flowing water channels, tall trees, and elegant pavilions reflect the traditional Persian concept of a paradise garden.

We then visit Borujerdi House, one of Kashan's most impressive Qajar-era traditional houses. The residence is known for its elaborate decorations, beautiful courtyards, and distinctive windcatchers designed for the desert climate.

Nearby, we explore Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse, a historic traditional bathhouse featuring intricate tilework, domed ceilings, and beautifully decorated interiors.

If time allows, we will also visit Kashan Bazaar, where you can experience the atmosphere of a traditional Iranian market and discover local handicrafts and products.

Overnight in Kashan

We continue our journey toward the Central Desert of Iran. Along the way, we stop in Nain, one of the historic cities of central Iran.

Here, we visit the Jameh Mosque of Nain, one of the earliest surviving mosques in Iran. Its simple design and historic architecture provide an interesting insight into the early development of Islamic architecture in the country.

We then continue toward the Central Desert, where vast landscapes, quiet surroundings, and traditional desert communities offer a different perspective on Iran.

Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to experience the peaceful desert environment and enjoy the warm hospitality of the local community.

Overnight in the Central Desert

We begin the day early to experience sunrise over the Central Desert. After breakfast, we continue toward Yazd, stopping at the historic village of Kharanaq.

Kharanaq is an ancient adobe settlement surrounded by desert landscapes. Its traditional architecture, narrow passages, and historic structures offer a fascinating glimpse into life in the desert.

Our journey continues to Meybod, a historic city with thousands of years of history. Here, we visit Narin Castle, an impressive mud-brick fortress and one of the most distinctive examples of traditional adobe architecture in central Iran.

We then explore Meybod's traditional Ice House and historic Caravanserai. These structures demonstrate how people adapted to the harsh desert environment and supported travelers along ancient trade routes.

After exploring Meybod, we continue our drive to Yazd.

Overnight in Yazd

Today, we explore Yazd, one of Iran's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Known for its desert architecture, Zoroastrian heritage, windcatchers, and traditional lifestyle, Yazd offers a unique cultural experience.

We begin with the Tower of Silence, an ancient Zoroastrian site on the outskirts of the city. Here, we learn about traditional Zoroastrian burial practices and the historical importance of this ancient religion in Iran.

Next, we visit the Yazd Fire Temple, an important Zoroastrian religious site. The temple is associated with a sacred fire that has been preserved according to Zoroastrian tradition.

We continue to Dowlat Abad Garden, one of Iran's finest Persian gardens and part of the UNESCO-listed Persian Garden. The garden is particularly famous for its impressive windcatcher, which demonstrates traditional methods of natural cooling in Iran's desert climate.

Our exploration continues at Amir Chakhmaq Complex, one of Yazd's most recognizable landmarks. We then visit the Jameh Mosque of Yazd, renowned for its magnificent tilework, imposing entrance portal, and tall minarets.

Finally, we walk through the narrow streets of Yazd Old Town, surrounded by traditional adobe houses, peaceful alleys, and historic architecture.

Overnight in Yazd

Today, we leave Yazd and continue toward Shiraz. Along the way, we make a short stop in Abarkuh to see Sarv-e Abarkuh, an ancient cypress tree and one of Iran's most remarkable natural landmarks.

We then continue to Pasargadae, the first capital of the Achaemenid Empire and the site of the tomb of Cyrus the Great. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers an important insight into the origins of the Achaemenid Persian Empire.

After exploring Pasargadae, we continue our journey to Shiraz.

Overnight in Shiraz

Today, our 14 Days Iran Tour continues with a full-day exploration of Shiraz, a city renowned for its gardens, poetry, literature, and cultural heritage.

We begin at Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, also known as the Pink Mosque. Its colorful stained-glass windows create a beautiful display of light inside the prayer hall, particularly in the morning.

Next, we visit Narenjestan Garden, a beautiful Qajar-era Persian garden surrounded by sour orange trees and elegant architecture.

We then continue to Karim Khan Citadel, the impressive former residence of Karim Khan Zand, founder of the Zand dynasty. The citadel provides an insight into Shiraz during the Zand period.

Our exploration continues at the Vakil Complex, where we visit Vakil Mosque, Vakil Bathhouse, and Vakil Bazaar. The traditional market is a great place to browse Persian handicrafts, carpets, spices, and local products.

In the afternoon, we visit the Tomb of Hafez, the resting place of one of Persia's greatest poets. Its peaceful garden remains a popular gathering place for locals and visitors.

Overnight in Shiraz

Today is one of the highlights of our Persian Journey. We leave Shiraz and travel into the heart of ancient Persia.

Our first stop is Persepolis, one of Iran's most important archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in 518 BC by Darius the Great, Persepolis served as the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire.

Walking among its monumental columns, royal palaces, stairways, and stone reliefs, we discover the remarkable achievements of one of the ancient world's greatest empires.

Nearby, we visit Naqsh-e Rostam, a spectacular necropolis carved into the cliffs. The site contains the rock-cut tombs of several Achaemenid kings and impressive ancient reliefs.

After exploring these remarkable sites, we continue our journey toward Isfahan.

Overnight in Isfahan

After breakfast, we begin exploring Isfahan, one of Iran's most magnificent cities. Once the capital of the Safavid Empire, Isfahan is renowned for its grand architecture, traditional handicrafts, Persian gardens, and historic bridges.

We begin at Imam Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's largest historic public squares. The square represents the artistic and architectural achievements of the Safavid period.

Here, we visit the magnificent Shah Mosque, also known as Imam Mosque. Its colorful tilework, elegant dome, and impressive minarets make it one of Iran's greatest examples of Islamic architecture.

Next, we explore Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, famous for its exquisite dome and beautifully decorated interior. We then visit Ali Qapu Palace, where Safavid rulers watched polo matches and enjoyed performances in its famous music rooms.

Our visit continues through Qeisarieh Bazaar, one of Isfahan's historic markets. Its shops offer Persian carpets, handicrafts, spices, and traditional artworks.

Afterwards, we visit Chehel Sotoun Palace, a beautiful Safavid pavilion surrounded by gardens and a reflecting pool. Its interior features remarkable paintings depicting important stories from Persian history.

In the evening, we walk along the famous Si-o-se-pol and Khaju Bridges, two of Isfahan's most iconic landmarks and popular gathering places for local people.

Overnight in Isfahan

Today, we continue exploring the cultural treasures of Isfahan.

We begin in the historic Armenian quarter of New Julfa, where we visit the 17th-century Vank Cathedral. The church is famous for its richly decorated interior, remarkable paintings, and distinctive blend of Armenian, Persian, and European influences.

Next, we visit Jameh Mosque of Isfahan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Iran's most important examples of Islamic architecture. The mosque reflects more than a thousand years of architectural development and showcases different periods of Persian Islamic design.

We then visit the Music Museum of Isfahan, where you can discover a fascinating collection of traditional Iranian musical instruments and learn more about Iran's musical heritage.

Our final visit is Hasht Behesht Palace, an elegant Safavid-era pavilion surrounded by gardens.

Overnight in Isfahan

Today, we leave Isfahan and begin our journey back to Tehran. Along the way, we visit Abyaneh, one of Iran's most picturesque historic villages.

Located in the mountains of central Iran, Abyaneh is known for its distinctive red-colored adobe houses, narrow lanes, and traditional architecture. A walk through the village offers a chance to experience a different side of rural Iranian culture.

We then continue our drive toward Tehran. Upon arrival, you will have free time to relax or explore the city independently, depending on your arrival time.

Overnight in Tehran

Today marks the end of your Persian Journey. According to your flight schedule, we will transfer you to Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) for your departure.

We hope you leave Iran with unforgettable memories of its ancient history, vibrant cities, desert landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Yes. The Persian Journey is designed as a comprehensive introduction to Iran. It combines major cities, ancient archaeological sites, traditional architecture, desert landscapes, and cultural experiences in one 14-day itinerary.

Two weeks is a good amount of time for experiencing many of Iran's highlights without rushing between destinations. This 14 Days Iran Tour allows you to visit Tehran, Kashan, the Central Desert, Yazd, Shiraz, and Isfahan.

The itinerary includes Tehran, Kashan, Nain, the Central Desert, Yazd, Abarkuh, Shiraz, Isfahan, and Abyaneh before returning to Tehran.

Yes. The Persian Journey includes both Persepolis and Pasargadae, two of Iran's most important archaeological sites. The itinerary also includes a visit to Naqsh-e Rostam near Persepolis.

Yes. The Central Desert is an important part of this itinerary. You will spend a night in the desert, experience the landscape and local hospitality, and have the opportunity to see the desert at sunrise.

The itinerary includes several important UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Golestan Palace, the Persian Garden sites, Pasargadae, Persepolis, Imam Square in Isfahan, and Jameh Mosque of Isfahan.

The best seasons are generally spring and autumn, particularly from March to May and September to November. These periods usually offer comfortable conditions for sightseeing and exploring the desert.

Yes. Transportation between the destinations is included according to the tour arrangements. Airport transfers are also provided at the beginning and end of the journey.

The tour can be arranged according to the available tour format and your travel requirements. If you prefer a private journey or have specific needs, you can contact Griffintours to discuss the available options.

Yes. We can discuss adjustments to the itinerary based on your interests, travel dates, and available time. For a fully customized trip, you can also explore our tailor-made Iran tours.