Kashan: Iran’s UNESCO Creative City of Architecture Kashan, Iran, has joined UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network as a Creative City of Architecture. Discover why this historic desert city is now recognized internationally for its architectural heritage, climate-responsive design, traditional craftsmanship and living urban culture. There are cities that preserve beautiful old buildings, and there are cities where architecture is still part of everyday life. Kashan belongs to the second group. In 2025, UNESCO designated Kashan, Iran, as a Creative City of Architecture, making it one of only five cities in the world selected in the first UNESCO Creative Cities Network designation for architecture. The other four are Bistrița in Romania, Lusail in Qatar, Quito in Ecuador and Rovaniemi in Finland. For a city in the heart of Iran’s dry central plateau, this recognition has a particular meaning. Kashan’s architecture was not created simply to impress the eye. It was developed to make life possible in a hot and dry environment. Its courtyards, windcatchers, thick walls, underground water systems, shaded passages and compact neighbourhoods show how architecture, climate, water and daily life were connected long before modern discussions about sustainable architecture began. What Is a UNESCO Creative City? The UNESCO Creative Cities Network was established in 2004 to connect cities that use culture and creativity as important parts of sustainable urban development. The network covers different creative fields, including crafts and folk art, design, film, gastronomy, literature, media arts and music. In 2025, UNESCO added architecture as a new creative field. Fifty-eight cities joined the network that year, bringing the total network to 408 cities in more than 100 countries. This distinction is important. Being a UNESCO Creative City of Architecture is not the same as being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The designation recognizes a city’s creative ecosystem, architectural
Kashan: Iran’s UNESCO Creative City of Architecture Kashan, Iran, has joined UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network as a Creative City of Architecture. Discover why this historic desert city is now recognized internationally for its architectural heritage, climate-responsive design, traditional craftsmanship and living urban culture. There are cities that preserve beautiful old buildings, and there are cities
Zanjan tourist attractions Where History, Culture, and Nature Converge Introduction: Zanjan, A City of Hidden Treasures Zanjan is not just another stop on the map. It's a city where history and culture intertwine, offering a glimpse into Persian life beyond the typical tourist path . Located in the northwestern part of Iran, Zanjan province is a treasure trove of remarkable attractions that range from a UNESCO World Heritage site to a vibrant, historic bazaar and breathtaking natural wonders. From the awe-inspiring dome of Soltaniyeh to the bustling alleys of its ancient bazaar, Zanjan promises an authentic and unforgettable journey for every traveler. Top Tourist Attractions in Zanjan 1. Soltaniyeh Dome: A UNESCO World Heritage Site The Dome of Soltaniyeh is the crown jewel of Zanjan and one of Iran's most significant historical sites. This UNESCO World Heritage site the mausoleum of the 14th-century Mongol Ilkhanid ruler Öljaitü and is renowned for its remarkable Persian architecture . It is the largest brick dome in the world, and its sheer scale and intricate design will leave you in awe . Practical Information: Location: Approximately 240 kilometers northwest of Tehran, in the city of Soltaniyeh . Getting There: About a 30-minute drive from Zanjan city center . Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather . 2. Zanjan Bazaar: The Longest Covered Marketplace in Iran Step into the heart of Zanjan's history at the Zanjan Bazaar, a living reflection of the culture, tradition, and enduring spirit of its people . Spanning an impressive 15 hectares and built in 1790 CE, this is the longest covered marketplace in Iran . With its 56 entrances, 940 shops, and a labyrinth of alleys, it is much more than a center of trade—it is a vibrant hub where history and
Zanjan tourist attractions Where History, Culture, and Nature Converge Introduction: Zanjan, A City of Hidden Treasures Zanjan is not just another stop on the map. It’s a city where history and culture intertwine, offering a glimpse into Persian life beyond the typical tourist path . Located in the northwestern part of Iran, Zanjan province
Travelers visiting Iran often want to know how reliable connectivity and internet access are during their trip, especially given recent disruptions. After a significant nationwide outage in early January 2026, Iranian authorities have been gradually restoring internet services. Although full access to global connectivity is still variable in some regions, the network is increasingly stable and improving day by day an important consideration for planning your travel and staying connected abroad. Current Internet Situation in Iran In early January 2026, authorities imposed a near-total internet shutdown, reducing international connectivity to extremely low levels and affecting mobile data, voice calls, and messaging services. According to internet monitoring groups, connectivity dropped to around 1% of normal levels in many areas, and domestic networks continued to function at limited capacity. Recent statements from officials indicate that internet connectivity is being progressively restored, with partial access to international websites returning and mobile services improving. Plans are in place to return most services to normal levels over coming days, although clear timelines for complete global web access have not been confirmed. How to Stay Connected in Iran Buy a Local SIM Card Purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival is the most reliable way to stay connected in Iran. Major telecom providers such as MCI (Hamrahe Aval), Irancell, and Rightel offer prepaid SIMs that support voice, SMS, and mobile data. You can buy these SIM cards at airports, official stores, or dedicated kiosks after showing your passport. Mobile Data Plans Once you have a local SIM, you can choose from various data packages based on your travel duration. Plans range from daily to monthly internet packages with increasing data volumes. For travelers, a mid-range data bundle is usually sufficient for maps, messaging, ride-hailing apps, and social media. Internet Restrictions and Access Tools Iran has a
Travelers visiting Iran often want to know how reliable connectivity and internet access are during their trip, especially given recent disruptions. After a significant nationwide outage in early January 2026, Iranian authorities have been gradually restoring internet services. Although full access to global connectivity is still variable in some regions, the network is increasingly stable
10 Most Beautiful Iran Places to Visit Where are the most 10 beautiful Iran places to visit? Most beautiful places to visit in Iran is number one question of Iran first-visitors who would like to explore Iran's main tourist attractions. Iran is a country of extraordinary beauty and diversity, boasting a rich tapestry of landscapes, historical sites, and cultural heritage. From the ancient ruins of Persepolis to the vibrant bazaars of Isfahan, there is no shortage of captivating destinations to explore. Here are ten of the most beautiful places to visit in Iran, each offering its own unique charm and allure: 1- Isfahan: Known as "Half of the World," Isfahan is a treasure trove of Islamic architecture and Persian artistry. At its heart lies the magnificent Naqsh-e Jahan Square, surrounded by the stunning Imam Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and Ali Qapu Palace. The city's intricate tilework, grand boulevards, and lush gardens make it a feast for the senses. 2-Persepolis: Step back in time at the ancient city of Persepolis, once the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Marvel at the imposing gateways, intricately carved reliefs, and towering palaces that stand as a testament to Iran's glorious past. 3-Shiraz: Known as the city of poets, gardens, and nightingales, Shiraz is a paradise for lovers of art and literature. Explore the fragrant gardens of Eram and Narenjestan, visit the tomb of the great Persian poet Hafez, and wander through the bustling stalls of the Vakil Bazaar. 4-Yazd: Nestled amidst the desert plains of central Iran, Yazd is a city steeped in history and tradition. Explore its winding alleyways, adorned with ancient wind-catchers and intricately tiled mosques. Visit the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, where an eternal flame has burned for over 1,500 years, and discover the
10 Most Beautiful Iran Places to Visit Where are the most 10 beautiful Iran places to visit? Most beautiful places to visit in Iran is number one question of Iran first-visitors who would like to explore Iran’s main tourist attractions. Iran is a country of extraordinary beauty and diversity, boasting a rich tapestry of landscapes, historical
The best Off the Beaten Track Villages of Iran Iran has 29 UNESCO registered world heritage sites (till July 2025) and it is the 10th country in the world with the most UNESCO sites on the list, but it is still an unknown destination for the world compared to the other touristic countries. As you know, Iran is a 4 seasons country with a long list of untraveled and unknown routes in different region of the country. So for this list, we have chosen different villages from varied climates in the country. From Alborz and Zagros mountains to Caspian Sea and Persian Gulf to forest and desert regions there are many terrains to visit. Below are the 10 Off the Beaten Track villages you should visit on you trip to Iran. 1. Makhunik desert village, South Khorasan province (Best Travel Time : Autumn, Winter and early spring) Makhunik: A Hidden Desert Village in South Khorasan Tucked away in South Khorasan Province, Makhunik is a remote desert village offering a unique glimpse into traditional desert life. Surrounded by the vast Dasht-e Kavir desert, the village’s mud-brick homes are designed to blend with the harsh desert environment, providing shelter from the extreme heat and cold. The residents of Makhunik still live much as they have for centuries, relying on agriculture and herding livestock. Makhunik’s stunning architecture, unique culture, and the opportunity to explore the surrounding desert make it an ideal off-the-beaten-path destination. For those looking to experience Iran’s desert heritage, Makhunik is a hidden gem worth discovering. 2. Darak coast-village, Sistan and Baluchistan province (Best Travel Time : Winter) Darak: A Hidden Coastal Village in Sistan and Baluchistan Nestled along the Gulf of Oman in Sistan and Baluchistan, Darak is a serene coastal village offering pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
The best Off the Beaten Track Villages of Iran Iran has 29 UNESCO registered world heritage sites (till July 2025) and it is the 10th country in the world with the most UNESCO sites on the list, but it is still an unknown destination for the world compared to the other touristic countries. As you
Ten Useful Tips for Traveling to Iran As one of the ancient cradles of civilization, Iran is a vast country embracing various climatic conditions, ethnic groups, and cultures. The variety in attractions, number of UNESCO Sites, landscapes, traditions, customs, and activities is so amazing that may make you bewildered. If you wish to travel to Iran for the first time or you are a tour operator thinking about adding Iran as a destination to your tour list, there might be a long list of different topics that you have to know before preparing your travel itinerary to Iran. There may also be many questions in your mind, and sometimes it is hard to find the right answer or source of information altogether. So, you had better know about some useful tips before traveling to Iran. Questions about how to get an Iran visa, when is the best time for traveling to Iran, what to visit in Iran, how to wear as a female traveler in Iran, and how and where to exchange currency in Iran are some of the questions that come first to the first-time travelers’ minds. In this travel advice and post, we create the most popular topics that you have to know to lead you through a good path for preparing your package for this authentic traveling destination. Here read about the ten essential tips for traveling to Iran: 1. Visa Information 2. Covid Latest Information and Travel Requirements 3. Iran Weather and Climate for Traveling 4. Iran Best Tourist Destinations 5. Iran’s Most Famous UNESCO Sites for Visit 6. Classic Iran – Famous Traveling Route for First Visitors: 7. Best Time to Visit Iran 8. Best Traveling Time for Different Activities 9. Dress Code 10. Iran Currency (Iranian Rials)
Ten Useful Tips for Traveling to Iran As one of the ancient cradles of civilization, Iran is a vast country embracing various climatic conditions, ethnic groups, and cultures. The variety in attractions, number of UNESCO Sites, landscapes, traditions, customs, and activities is so amazing that may make you bewildered. If you wish to travel to
Oraman (Uraman) Takht Village in Iran (UNESCO) Oraman or Uraman-e Takht is the name of a village located in Hawraman in the Kurdish region of Iran. The Cultural Landscape of Hawraman was registered in the list of Iranian UNESCO sites in July 2021. Hawraman is the name of the valley and mountain region located within the provinces of Kurdistan and Kermanshah in western Iran and the north-eastern Kurdistan Region in Iraq. The majority of the property of Hawraman is situated in Iran. Only a small northern part of this valley is located in Iraq. The Oraman village is one of the most exotic villages in Iran. It is 63 km away from the south of Marivan, Kurdistan Province, in Iran. Uraman Architecture The village stone houses are stair-like fashion, with beams covering the ceilings. Here, the roof of one house is the courtyard of the other. There are many other villages in Hawraman and other parts of Kurdistan with similar architecture. The following villages' pictures present the traditional architecture of this region of Iran. Uraman Attractions Oramanat Takht village is undoubtedly one of the attractive rural areas of Kurdestan. It is also among the Top 10 Iran Tourist Villages. The spectacular panoramic views of this area, like the rivers in the valley, are not the only attractions. Kurdish old traditions, such as Kurdish dance, traditional clothes, and customs are other attractions unique to the region. The annual performance of an ancient wonderful ceremony of Pir Shalyar put this village on the list of best Iran villages as well. Ancient fire temples and remnants of this region indicate that the inhabitants were Zoroastrian before converting to Islam. The fertile lands here are full of walnut, pomegranate, fig, and mulberry trees. The tomb of Pir Shalyar (Peer Shahriar) is one of
Oraman (Uraman) Takht Village in Iran (UNESCO) Oraman or Uraman-e Takht is the name of a village located in Hawraman in the Kurdish region of Iran. The Cultural Landscape of Hawraman was registered in the list of Iranian UNESCO sites in July 2021. Hawraman is the name of the valley and mountain region located within
Climate and Weather for Travelling to Iran One of the elements that helps you to have the Best Iran Tour is having good knowledge of the climate and weather for travel to Iran. Iran is a large and vast country; it has a very varied climate with different weather systems covering an area of 1,648,195 km2 (636,372 sq miles). To compare the size of the country, Iran is about 5 times bigger than Italy and about 4.4 times bigger than Japan. Geographically, Iran is located west of Asia and lies between the southern part of the Caspian Sea and north of the Persian Gulf and Makran Sea, (Gulf of Oman). Iran has different types of weather systems in each region with a variable climate. In general, Iran is an arid country compared to east Asian countries but in the west and north, (Alborz and Zagros Mountain ranges), the rains are more abundant than in the east and south, (Dasht-e Kavir & Lut Desert regions). The rainiest area in Iran is along the Caspian Sea coast which is the greenest part of the country with enormous jungles in the various regions. The famous Hyrcanian forest, (UNESCO), is also located in the Caspian Sea region. The north and west of Iran have exceptionally cold winters with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures while in the east and south in the Iran plateau, the climate is continental and arid. The weather along the Caspian Sea coast is mild and quite wet while along the south coast, the Persian Gulf, and Oman Sea region, it is hot. Seasons and their weather based Activities Depending on which season, even which month and the region you would like to visit, we’d like to emphasize the weather varies dramatically from the north of the country,
Climate and Weather for Travelling to Iran One of the elements that helps you to have the Best Iran Tour is having good knowledge of the climate and weather for travel to Iran. Iran is a large and vast country; it has a very varied climate with different weather systems covering an area of 1,648,195
Best Time to Visit Iran? Iran’s four seasons are very well defined. Due to its big size, the various regions that make up the country have very different weather conditions, temperature, rainfall and level of humidity during the year. Depending on where you are, whether in a high mountainous area, a vast desert, a forest, or one of the two coastal regions going from north to south, (the Caspian Sea to the Persian Gulf ), this climate diversity makes it possible to travel all year round. So a question easily arises: What is the best time to visit Iran? High season / Low season As an example, what is known as the LOW SEASON is due to the high summer temperatures in most parts of the country making it unattractive for travelers to visit the cities. However, the Caspian Sea area has its busiest time of the year during this season as many locals from all over Iran, especially from the capital, are traveling there to soak up the sun and swim. For mountain lovers, summer is the best time to ascend the high peaks. Yet another example is the OFF-SEASON. This is the winter season when large parts of the country have very cold weather. Many domestic travelers go to the southern coast to enjoy the sunny weather there. In winter, when most of Iran’s tourist destinations are deserted, travelers will find it extremely difficult to find a vacant room in the Persian Gulf islands or tourist destinations along the southern coast. It's vital to mention the region and name of the destination when we use the term HIGH SEASON and LOW SEASON. As Iran is not yet a popular destination to travel to in the world, most of Iran’s visitors are cultural-historical travelers who come here to
Best Time to Visit Iran? Iran’s four seasons are very well defined. Due to its big size, the various regions that make up the country have very different weather conditions, temperature, rainfall and level of humidity during the year. Depending on where you are, whether in a high mountainous area, a vast desert, a forest,
Iran changed its requirements for travelers during the pandemic after many months. (March 2022 Update) Iran's Borders have been open for the past 8 months. In the light of recent events, Iran has taken measures in changing the previous requirements. The new Iran Entry requirements do not include the PCR test and you can enter the country with your vaccination card. All individuals above the age of 12 require a vaccination card as proof for the first double doses. A minimum of 2 weeks must have passed from the last given dose. There are no requirements for booster shots in place. in the old instructions, a PCR test done within a 72-hour time limit before flight for individuals above the age of 12 and a vaccination card with 2 weeks passed from the second dose was needed. Like many other countries, Iran has crossed out the mandatory PCR test, and entering the country is made easier by only the vaccination card. please keep in mind that the borders are open for all countries except 8 African countries: ZIMBABWE, MOZAMBIQUE, NAMIBIA, MALAWI, SOUTH AFRICA, SWATINI, LESOTHO AND BOTSWANA. Most of the population fully vaccinated, The Iranian Ministry of Health and Medical Education set these new Iran Entry requirements. So here is the new requirement: All individuals above the age of 12 require a vaccination card as proof for the first double doses. (at least 2 weeks must have passed from your second dose) If you need more information or have any questions be sure to contact us and if you are planning to visit Iran, you can check out HERE for extra visa information.
Iran changed its requirements for travelers during the pandemic after many months. (March 2022 Update) Iran’s Borders have been open for the past 8 months. In the light of recent events, Iran has taken measures in changing the previous requirements. The new Iran Entry requirements do not include the PCR test and you can enter the
