15 Days Iran Historical Tour: Persia in Depth

Welcome to Iran! Upon arrival at Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA), our team will meet and greet you. We then transfer you to your hotel in Tehran.

The rest of the day is free to relax after your journey. You can prepare for your exciting Iran Historical Tour.

Overnight in Tehran

Today, we begin exploring Tehran, Iran's vibrant capital. Our first visit is Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The palace showcases magnificent Qajar-era architecture and reflects Tehran's royal history. It also offers insight into the lives of Iran's Qajar rulers.

We then walk through the Grand Bazaar of Tehran, the traditional commercial heart of the capital. Its covered passages contain shops selling carpets, spices, handicrafts, and other goods.

Walking through the bazaar offers a glimpse into everyday life in Tehran. The lively atmosphere makes it one of the city's most interesting experiences.

Next, we visit the National Museum of Iran, the country's most important archaeological museum. Its collections cover thousands of years of Persian history.

Overnight in Tehran

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

Our first visit is Fin Garden, one of Iran's finest Persian gardens. Its flowing water channels, tall trees, and elegant pavilions reflect traditional Persian garden design.

We then visit Borujerdi House, one of Kashan's most impressive traditional residences. Its decorations, courtyard, and windcatchers showcase Qajar-era architecture.

Nearby, we explore Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse, a historic traditional bathhouse. Its intricate tilework, domed ceilings, and decorated interiors showcase Kashan's architectural heritage.

If time allows, we also visit Kashan Bazaar. Here, you can experience a traditional Iranian market and discover local handicrafts.

Overnight in Kashan

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

Here, we visit the Jameh Mosque of Nain, one of Iran's earliest surviving mosques. Its simple design provides insight into early Islamic architecture.

We then continue toward the Central Desert. Vast landscapes and peaceful surroundings offer a different perspective on Iran.

After arrival, you can enjoy the quiet desert environment and experience local hospitality. The evening provides an opportunity to relax away from Iran's busy cities.

Overnight in the Central Desert

We begin the day early to experience sunrise over the Central Desert. After breakfast, we continue toward Yazd through the historic landscapes of central Iran.

Our first stop is Kharanaq, an ancient adobe village surrounded by desert landscapes. Its narrow passages and traditional architecture reveal centuries of desert life.

We then continue to Meybod, a historic city with thousands of years of history. Here, we visit Narin Castle, an impressive mud-brick fortress.

We also explore Meybod's traditional Ice House and historic Caravanserai. These structures demonstrate how people adapted to the harsh desert environment.

After exploring Meybod, we continue our drive toward Yazd.

Overnight in Yazd

Today, we explore Yazd, one of Iran's oldest continuously inhabited cities. The city is famous for its desert architecture, Zoroastrian heritage, and traditional lifestyle.

We begin at the Tower of Silence, an ancient Zoroastrian site outside the city. Here, we learn about traditional Zoroastrian burial practices.

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

We continue to Dowlat Abad Garden, one of Iran's finest Persian gardens. Its impressive windcatcher demonstrates traditional methods of natural cooling.

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

Finally, we walk through Yazd Old Town. Traditional adobe houses, narrow alleys, and historic architecture create a unique atmosphere.

Overnight in Yazd

Today, we leave Yazd and travel toward Kerman. Along the way, we stop in Mehriz to visit the beautiful Pahlavanpour Garden.

This historic Persian garden forms part of the UNESCO-listed Persian Garden collection. Its flowing water, mature trees, and traditional architecture create a peaceful setting.

We then continue toward Zein-o-din Caravanserai. We will have a look at this historic caravanserai from outside.

The caravanserai once served travelers along ancient trade routes between central Iran and Kerman. We then continue our journey toward Kerman.

After arrival, you can relax and enjoy your first evening in this historic city.

Overnight in Kerman

Today, we travel from Kerman toward Bam, one of Iran's fascinating historic destinations. Our first stop is Shazdeh Garden in Mahan, a beautiful Persian garden near Kerman.

The garden combines flowing water, lush vegetation, and elegant architecture against a dry mountain landscape. It offers a striking example of Persian garden design.

We then continue to Arg-e Bam, the magnificent mud-brick citadel of Bam. This vast historic complex reflects Bam's importance along ancient trade routes.

We explore the remains of the citadel and learn about its long history. After visiting Bam, we drive back to Kerman.

Overnight in Kerman

Today, we begin the long journey from Kerman to Shiraz. The route crosses diverse landscapes and connects two important cultural regions of southern Iran.

Along the way, we pass through Sirjan and continue toward Sarvestan. We stop to see the remains of impressive Sassanid-era palaces.

These ancient structures provide insight into the architectural achievements of the Sassanid Empire. After our visit, we continue our journey toward Shiraz.

Upon arrival, you can relax at your hotel after the long drive.

Overnight in Shiraz

Today, we explore 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 beautiful patterns of light inside the prayer hall.

Next, we visit Narenjestan Garden, a beautiful Qajar-era Persian garden. Sour orange trees and elegant buildings create a peaceful atmosphere.

We then continue to Karim Khan Citadel, the former residence of Karim Khan Zand. The citadel offers insight into Shiraz during the Zand period.

Our exploration continues at the Vakil Complex. We visit Vakil Mosque, Vakil Bathhouse, and Vakil Bazaar.

The traditional bazaar offers carpets, handicrafts, spices, and local products. It also provides a lively glimpse into traditional Shirazi life.

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

Overnight in Shiraz

Today, we travel from Shiraz toward Isfahan through the heart of ancient Persia. Our first stop is Persepolis, one of Iran's most important archaeological sites.

Persepolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded by Darius the Great in 518 BC. It served as the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire.

We walk among monumental columns, royal palaces, stairways, and detailed stone reliefs. These remains reveal the remarkable achievements of the ancient Persian Empire.

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

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. The city is famous for its grand architecture, traditional handicrafts, 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 showcases the artistic 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 create a spectacular architectural ensemble.

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.

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 contains remarkable paintings depicting stories from Persian history.

In the evening, we walk along the famous Si-o-se-pol and Khaju Bridges. These historic bridges remain 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. Here, we visit the 17th-century Vank Cathedral, famous for its richly decorated interior and remarkable paintings.

The cathedral reflects Armenian, Persian, and European influences. Its museum also provides insight into the history of Isfahan's Armenian community.

Next, we visit Jameh Mosque of Isfahan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mosque reflects more than a thousand years of architectural development.

We then visit the Music Museum of Isfahan. Its collection introduces visitors to traditional Iranian musical instruments and Iran's rich 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 red-colored adobe houses. Its narrow lanes and traditional architecture create a distinctive village atmosphere.

A walk through Abyaneh offers a chance to experience another side of rural Iranian culture. After exploring the village, we continue our drive toward Tehran.

Upon arrival, you have free time to relax or explore the city independently. Your free time depends on our arrival schedule.

Overnight in Tehran

Today marks the end of your Persia in Depth journey. According to your flight schedule, we transfer you to Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA).

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

Your journey has taken you through Tehran, Kashan, the Central Desert, Yazd, Kerman, Bam, Shiraz, and Isfahan. We wish you a safe journey home.

Yes. Persia in Depth covers many of Iran's most important historical and cultural destinations. It also introduces travelers to lesser-known places such as Kerman, Bam, Kharanaq, and Nain.

The tour lasts 15 days and 14 nights. It begins and ends in Tehran.

The itinerary includes Tehran, Kashan, Nain, the Central Desert, Yazd, Kerman, Bam, Shiraz, and Isfahan. It also includes Kharanaq, Meybod, Mahan, Persepolis, Naqsh-e Rostam, and Abyaneh.

Yes. Persepolis is one of the main highlights of the tour. We also visit Naqsh-e Rostam, located nearby.

Yes. We travel from Kerman to Bam and visit the historic Arg-e Bam. We then return to Kerman for the overnight stay.

The tour introduces you to several important periods of Iranian history. These include the Achaemenid, Sassanid, Islamic, Safavid, and Qajar periods.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most comfortable conditions. These seasons provide pleasant weather for sightseeing across most destinations.

Yes. We can discuss changes based on your interests, travel dates, and available time. Contact Griffintours to discuss a tailor-made version of the tour.