Highlights of Iran in a One-Week Tour

7 Days

Duration

Easy

Activity Level

Apr, May, Sep, Oct

Best Months

Cultural & Heritage

Activity Type

Classic

Travel Styles

Explore the best highlights of Iran with an intensive, tailored-made tour start from Shiraz and finish in Tehran with visit the most famous UNESCO World Heritage sites in Shiraz, Isfahan and Tehran in one week.

TOUR CODE	195-STN-XPL
START	Shiraz
FINISH	Tehran
Activity Level	Easy
REGION(S)	Central Iran
INCLUDED	MEALS: 7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunches, 1 Dinners ACCOMMODATIONS: 2 nights boutique hotel in Shiraz, 2 nights classic hotel in Isfahan, 2 nights classic hotel in Tehran, TRANSPORTATION: All transport during the tour according to the itinerary includes a combination of a tourist bus, van/minibus, and sedan car. Accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary English Speaking guide Entry fee for the sites included in the itinerary
Excluded	International airfare, airport and departure taxes and excess baggage charges Travel Insurance and the cost of medical immunizations Entry fees for the sites not mentioned in the itinerary Any other service not included in the itinerary Airport pick up and drop off (optional) Meals not listed on the itinerary Tip to guide and driver Any extra hotel costs such as early check in or late checkout, laundry, mini bar used in the room

Explore the cultural city of Shiraz, the city of our great poets’ tombs with its World Heritage magnificent gardens
Discover the ancient capital of Persepolis, with some of the world’s most significant archaeological sites (UNESCO site)
Visit the ancient Necropolis of Iran (Naghsh-e Rostam)
Explore Isfahan, the capital of arts of Iran with the world’s most beautiful historical mosques
Explore Naghsh-e Jahan Square (UNESCO site)
Explore northern Tehran’s numerous highlights, including Saadabad Palace, (Qajar and Pahlavi dynasty)
Experience sleeping in a Persian Traditional Style boutique hotel

Highlights of Iran in a one-week tour is designed especially for first-time visitors who are interested in exploring the famous tourist Classic Route. We’ve included the 3 major tourist cities of Shiraz, Isfahan and Tehran in this travel package, which are mostly located in the centre of the country. We’ll be taking in 5 acclaimed sites registered in UNESCO’S World Heritage sites of Iran. Almost all of our adventurous clients enjoy this tour as they can combine it with one of our long treks in the mountains or deserts customizing their own two or three-weeks holiday. This would be an ideal travel itinerary for those of you who would also like to experience another activity as well as seeing Iran’s highlights due to time constraints. We only have a few fixed departure dates per year for this tour which take place in early spring and mid-autumn.

This is a cultural historical sightseeing tour starting from Shiraz, south-central Iran, and finishing in Tehran Capital in the north of the country. Your trip begins from your hotel with a Shiraz city tour and, after visiting the most interesting tourist highlights of Shiraz, you’ll travel to Isfahan. On your way, you’ll spend have half a day exploring Persepolis and Naghsh-e Rostan, (Necropolis), learning about the Achaemenid Empire and the history of Ancient Persia. The day after, you’ll have a full day’s Isfahan walking tour and a visit to the most important sites along Naghsh-e Jahan Square, (Meidan Emam), a World Heritage UNESCO site. You’ll then continue your trip towards Tehran. In Tehran you’ll have a full day’s city sightseeing tour and explore numerous highlights of the capital.

Day 1: Arrival in Shiraz

Arrive at Shiraz International Airport (SYZ) in Shiraz. Meet your guide and transfer to your hotel in Shiraz for rest. (-, -, -)

Day 2: Shiraz sightseeing & walking tour

Shiraz, known as the city of poetry and wine, is a cultural gem surrounded by stunning nature. Famous for its poets Hafez and Sa’adi, Shiraz captivates visitors with its gardens, historical sites, and warm hospitality. Your Shiraz tour begins at the Nasir al-Molk Mosque (Pink Mosque), famous for its colorful stained-glass windows. Next, explore the fragrant Narenjestan Garden (Qavam House), a Qajar-era masterpiece, followed by the sacred Shah Cheragh Mausoleum. Stroll through the lively Vakil Bazaar, where you can relax at a teahouse, and visit the nearby Vakil Mosque and Vakil Bath.Pass by the Karim Khan Citadel, a Zand-era fortress perfect for photos, before heading to the UNESCO-listed Eram Garden. End your day at Hafeziyeh, the mausoleum of the beloved 14th-century poet Hafez, a spiritual site for many Iranians. Overnight stay in a boutique hotel in Shiraz. (B, -, D)

Day 3: Persepolis, Pasargadae & Naghsh-e Rostam- transfer to Isfahan

Today, we delve into the history of Ancient Persia, exploring the iconic sites of the Achaemenid Empire (559–331 BC). Our journey begins at Persepolis (Takht-e Jamshid), the empire’s ceremonial capital founded by Darius I in 518 BC. Located 50 km from Shiraz, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world’s greatest archaeological wonders. Next, we visit Naqsh-e Rostam, an ancient necropolis 13 km northwest of Persepolis. Carved into cliffs, the site features the tombs of four Achaemenid kings, including Darius the Great and Xerxes, as well as rock reliefs spanning Elamite, Achaemenid, and Sassanian eras. This site is on UNESCO’s tentative list for future recognition. Our final stop is Pasargadae, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first capital of the Achaemenid Empire, founded by Cyrus the Great in the 6th century BC. Explore its palaces, gardens, and the mausoleum of Cyrus, which showcase the early brilliance of Persian art and architecture. Transfer to Isfahan in the late afternoon. Overnight in a boutique hotel in Isfahan. (B, -, D)

Day 4: Isfahan walking tour

In the 17th century, Isfahan was the capital of the Safavid Empire and a thriving metropolis renowned for its Persian architecture. Today, it remains Iran’s masterpiece, with turquoise-domed mosques, ornate palaces, lush gardens, and vibrant bazaars. Our walking tour begins at Naqsh-e Jahan Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of Isfahan. Here, we’ll visit the stunning Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, the grand Imam Mosque, and the six-story Ali Qapu Palace, a 16th-century gateway to royal gardens. We’ll also explore Chehel Sotun Palace and Hasht Behesht Palace, both iconic examples of Persian art and architecture. Next, we’ll wander through the Grand Bazaar, a perfect place to admire Persian handicrafts and shop for souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a stroll along the elegant Si-o-Seh Pol Bridge and Chahar Bagh Street, soaking in the city’s vibrant nightlife. Overnight in a traditional hotel in Isfahan. (B, -, D)

Day 5: Isfahan sightseeing – Transfer to Tehran

We begin our day at the Jameh Mosque of Isfahan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Iran’s oldest mosques, showcasing stunning Iranian architecture. Next, we visit the Jolfa neighborhood, home to Isfahan’s Armenian community. Here, we’ll explore the Vank Cathedral, a 17th-century masterpiece blending Islamic and European styles, and enjoy a stop at one of the area’s charming cafés.Later, we’ll visit the Music Museum, featuring a collection of traditional Iranian instruments. In the evening, take a stroll to the iconic Khaju Bridge, a historic structure spanning the Zayanderud River. In the afternoon we will transfer you to Tehran. Overnight in a traditional hotel in Tehran. (B, -, D)

Day 6: North Tehran sightseeing tour

Today, we explore northern Tehran, a contrast to the bustling downtown. Starting with a metro ride to Tajrish Square, we’ll visit the Saadabad Palace Complex, a 19th-century royal residence with 18 palaces and museums showcasing Iran’s art, history, and royal lifestyle. Nearby, we’ll explore the lively Tajrish Bazaar and the Emamzadeh Saleh Mausoleum. In the afternoon, stroll along Vali-e Asr Street (on UNESCO’s tentative list), visit Ferdows Garden and the Cinema Museum, and enjoy a coffee break in the Shemiran district. In the evening, head to Darband Village, nestled in the Alborz Mountains at 1,800 meters. This picturesque spot is perfect for trying Iranian kebabs, relaxing in teahouses, and observing local life, including shisha smoking. Darband is also the starting point for treks to Mount Tochal (3,850m). On our way, we’ll stop at Azadi Tower, a iconic landmark and photographer’s dream. Overnight in a standard hotel in Tehran. (B, -, D)

Day 7: Departure day

Today marks the end of your tour. Hotel check-out is at noon, and we’ll transfer you to IKA Airport according to your flight schedule. (B, -, -)

Iran visa FAQ

Check out our other group tour dates to see how you could match this tour with one of the others. Please contact us to get our consultant’s advice regarding booking a suitable tour package..