Discover the Unknown Side of Iran

Welcome to the capital of Iran, where modernity and tradition go together. Upon arrival, your guide will transfer you to the hotel for two nights in Tehran.

Today is the first opportunity to uncover the beauties of Iran in the capital. With a tour of an intriguing combination of the National Museum of Iran, the Treasure of National Jewels, and the Sa’adabad Palace in Tehran, you’re sure to acquire an understanding of the past and present of Iran and some insight into the history of this imperial land. Lastly, we will have a visit to today’s architectural masterpiece of Tehran, the Nature Bridge which not only links two scenic parks together also connect people while taking a walk along the largest pedestrian bridge of the country.

Overnight in Tehran

This morning we drive from Tehran to the west of the country. Our destination is the cradle of civilization, the city of Hamadan. We, first, will visit the tomb of two Jewish heroes, Esther and Mordechai, to gain perception of their exciting stories. The grass-covered lands at the foothill of the snow-capped Alvand Mountain are our next hosts. We will visit the two of the most famous inscription of the Achaemenid Empire carved into the mountain, as well as a cascading waterfall amid a beautiful nature in Ganjnameh and Abbasabad. Later, we will pay a visit to the post-Islamic architectural masterwork in plaster, the Alavian Dome, which is of elegant floral motifs that appeal to every visitor’s eye.

Overnight in Hamadan.

We begin the 4th day by paying a delightful visit to the Avicenna Mausoleum in Hamadan. The charming surrounding of the mausoleum of the great polymath, who had run rings around his contemporaries and teachers, is not only a place to enjoy the beauties and atmosphere but also to educate. Afterward, we will have a short road trip to Kermanshah.

On the way, we will stop at the city of Kangavar to take a glimpse of its highlight, the Anahita Temple, which is the second colossal stone structure in Iran. We, then, will continue through the spectacular road with the breezy and sparkling rivers, providing the backdrop, until we reach a UNESCO Site. The historical site of Bisotun, which evokes memories of the Achaemenid Empire amid a lovely nature, awaits us.

Taq-e-Bostan will be our next host, where the glory of bas-reliefs and carvings and the artistic inscriptions and sculptures speak about the honor of the Sassanid Empire. At last, we will drive to Khorramabad, which is of abundant groundwater resources and the intracity springs as if it is a city that floats.

Overnight in Khorramabad.

This morning we will visit the architectural masterwork and also the landmark of Khorramabad, the Falak-ol-Aflak Castle. This gigantic structure on the top of a green hill will reward you with a bird’s eye view of the city and nature as well as the cultural and historical understanding of people and their lifestyle in its museums.

After that, we will visit the Zaal River, which is home to different kinds of beautiful fishes and enjoy the friendly atmosphere around it. Lastly, we will drive to Susa to visit one of the World Heritage Sites, which will whet your appetite for more discoveries about ancient Iran. The Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat is our last destination of today’s exploration, where we will uncover the secrets and history that dates back to the Elamites era. We, then, will go to Dezful for one night to stay there.

Overnight in Dezful.

A new day of adventure kicks off in the old and historical city of, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will have an enjoyable experience of walking in history. In Susa, we will visit the Tomb of Prophet Daniel, where the history adjoins the religion and provides a peaceful place for pilgrims and travelers. Then it is time to feel the joy of invigorating air of the enticing area in Zagros Mountain Ranges nearby the Bakhtiari Nomads.

Depending on the season, we will visit the people of this reputed tribe, who are accustomed to animals, nature, their gentility, and culture more than anyone else. Afterward, we will head to the city of Shushtar, which has placed the most massive engineering structure of the ancient times in its heart. The Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System, a UNESCO Site, is a harmonious system of catenated waterfalls, dams, tunnels and water channels that operate together and astound the visitors. Finally, we will drive to the great city of Ahvaz.

Overnight in Ahvaz.

Get ready for a road trip to Shiraz today. During our spectacular journey to Shiraz, we will stop at Bishapur to visit the ruins and remaining parts of one of the most significant cities of the Sassanid era. In its vicinity, we will visit the Tang-e-Chogan, where the mysteries of the old town lies in it. After taking in the grandeur of what you have seen, we will continue our way to Iran’s capital of culture and literature, Shiraz.

Overnight in Shiraz.

Welcome to the city, immortalized by the poems of Hafez and Sa’adi and beloved by most of the Iranians. Shiraz, where amazingly beautiful, sun-kissed gardens full of bitter oranges trees stretch off into the distance under a perpetually blue sky. Our tour in Shiraz begins with visiting one of the most notable historical attractions of Iran, the Persepolis, where you will soon see why Iranians have made a crown of their past and put it on their head. Listed as the second UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Iran, the Persepolis is home to soaring pillars which stroke the sky and also elaborate engravings which narrate the history, that together make the visitors enamored by the glory of the Achaemenid era. Afterward, we will visit the Naqsh-e-Rostam (Necropolis), a home to tombs of four of the powerful Achaemenian Kings. We, then, will return to the city of Shiraz to visit the Tomb of Hafez. After passing through a street lined with towering trees, we will enter the garden in which the tomb of Hafez is situated. Take your time walking around the whole garden with a romantic atmosphere, a favorite hangout spot for lovers and beloveds where people in groups get together reciting Hafez’s poems.

Overnight in Shiraz.

The colorful lights in the Pink Mosque, the ambrosial aroma of orange blossoms in the Narenjestan, the enchanting mirror works in the Shah-e-Cheragh Shrine, today we will fall in love with everything in Shiraz, where travelers are genuinely and warmly welcomed. We will visit the gorgeously-colored Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque, which provides a fascinating location for your pictures to share with your friends. Afterward, we will visit the historical house of Narenjestan, where the fresh fragrance of the orange trees adds oomph to the beauty of the garden, and where you will see a treasure of seven arts in the decoration of the pavilion. After that, we will pay a visit to the historical Vakil (Zand) Complex, including a bazaar, a mosque, a bathhouse, and a citadel, which attracts thousands of visitors each year. Have your feet on the ground and watch every detail of this stunning complex. Otherwise, you will regret it later. Lastly, we will join the throngs of pilgrims to visit the Shah-e-Cheragh Shrine, where you will become fascinated by the tranquility and furthermore, the fantastic mirrored interior of the shrine.

Overnight in Shiraz

Leaving Shiraz, the city of poem and literature behind, it is time to hit the road toward Yazd. En route, we will pay a visit to the first capital of the Achaemenid Empire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pasargadae. We will delve deeper into the ancient times by exploring the area and visiting the tomb of Cyrus the Great. After that, we will set off for the city of Abarkuh, where we will stop at the Ice Reservoir made of clay and adobe. We, then, will pay a visit to Taft, which is surrounded by the pomegranate gardens and is shrouded in the scented clay aroma. Nartitee Ecolodge is where we will spend time to have a taste of life and experience the rustic vibes in a village. Lastly, we will enter Yazd, a city steeped in history, where we will settle in for two nights.

On a full-day sightseeing tour today, immerse yourself in the Zoroastrian’s culture in the first two visits. The Zoroastrian’s Dakhmeh (tower of silence) and the Fire Temple are the primary two attractions packed with legends and histories that we will visit and uncover the mysteries behind them. Then, we will continue visiting the whole bunch of historical sites. The Amir Chakhmaq Complex in the heart of the city, which amazes its guests with its symmetrical alcoves and ornamented monuments. Later, enjoy a gleeful guided walk in the most historic spot of the city, the labyrinth of alleys in the Fahaadaan Neighborhood. After that, another UNESCO Site will be our destination. The Dowlat Abad Garden, home to the tallest wind catcher in the world, with its sheer beauty and nature will defy belief of this desert city. The songbirds and the rhythmic melody of the flowing water will enhance the beauty of this garden. Seeking a new experience? Well, we will pay a visit to the Zoorkhaneh, which means the House of Strength, where we will watch a combination of Iranians ancient sports and rituals by art and literature.

Overnight in Yazd.

We will say a farewell to the first adobe city of the world and strike out across the desert to reach Isfahan. En route, we will visit the Meybod’s Shah Abbasi Caravanserai, one of the Safavid’s architectural masterpieces. Then, after a long-distance desert-ing, we will arrive in Isfahan, Half the World. We will spend the rest of the time walking and photographing along the Zayanderud River, the thrill, tranquility, and beauty of which will make any nature and culture lover weak in the knees.

Overnight in Isfahan.

Welcome to Iran’s capital of art and architecture, Isfahan. A whole day lies ahead to unveil the attractions of the Safavid capital. We, first, will go to the heart of the city, where one of the largest squares of the world is situated. We will visit the UNESCO Site of the Naqsh-e-Jahan Square, which is embraced by the Ali Qapu Palace, the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, the Imam Mosque, the Qeysarieh Gate, and other historical monuments. This square is where your jaw will hit the ground due to their unique arts, architectures, and structures. Afterward, we will visit the Chehel Sotoun Palace to witness the beautiful pavilion decorated with elegant paintings in the center of a wonderful garden, which is considered as one of the masterworks of the Safavid era. Lastly, we will visit the beautiful bridges of Isfahan. The Khaju Bridge, the Si-o-Se Pol Bridge, the Joubi Bridge, and the Shahrestan Bridge will be our hosts to watch the harmonious symphony of colors as the sun sets and listen to the street music among the crowd of locals that together will create an excellent experience for us.

Overnight in Isfahan.

Isfahan, we are not done with you yet! Today, we will experience the other half of the bunch of the Isfahan’s attractions. The surrounding of Isfahan is dotted with bizarre but attractive Pigeon Towers, that today we will visit one. After that, we will visit the oldest mosque with a varied architecture in Iran in which you experience the spirit of beauty of captivating dome and mihrab, the Jameh Mosque of Isfahan. Then, we will pay a pleasant visit to the Vank Cathedral, where you will feast your eyes on the magical frescos with floral motifs, gilt and tile works. At last, we will get into a place where mixes up art, authenticity, beauty, and history, the bazaar of Isfahan, so clap your eyes on the valuable stuff and buy your favorites as souvenirs.

Overnight in Isfahan.

Today, the red ruby of the desert awaits. Cameras at the ready! Departing Isfahan early, we travel to Abyaneh, a village frozen in time. This village, which has well-preserved its stepped architectural style, colorful customs, and valuable traditions, gives a fascinating insight into life during the ancient times. Afterward, we will continue to the city of Kashan to get a closer look at the history where culture lovers and photographers will not be dissatisfied. We will visit the Agha Bozorg Mosque and School, where we will visit the tall minarets embellished with colorful tiles and the pool in the center of a big courtyard that together is worthy of your admirations. Later, we will visit the Borujerdi House that is famous for its architectural eye candy and its wind catchers.

Overnight in Kashan.

Pull the curtains aside to watch the haunting morning light rising over the tall windcatchers of Kashan. We leave Kashan today and head to Qom, where we will visit the Fatima Masumeh Holy Shrine. Wear chador at the entrance and take in the laid-back atmosphere of this shrine. We, then, head toward the capital, but en route, we will pay a visit to the Mausoleum of Ayatollah Khomeini where you will be impressed by the garnishments and vastness of this place. After that, we will go to our hotel in Tehran to rest and relax for tomorrow’s long flight home.

Overnight in Tehran

16-days of this heart-pounding journey finish today. Bid a fond farewell to this achingly picturesque country rich with nature, history, and tranquility.

Transport to the airport