Destination

TEHRAN, THE BEATING HEART OF IRAN

Tehran Travel Guide

Being the capital of Iran for more than couple of centuries, Tehran(Iran destinations) is a paradoxical coexistence of modernity and tradition, continuity and change, the poor and the rich, luxury and routine, peaceful enjoyable moments and irritating crowded places, and the floating life and the dead non-used houses. Being a wonder, Tehran is a great embodiment of life having all ups and downs together. The wonders, surprises, and irritations altogether await you in this city.
One of the remarkable features of Tehran is its dramatic topography since it is located right at the foot of Alborz Mountain Range. To Iranians, Tehran is a growing city and due to its cutting-edge developments, a large number of people are migrating from other cities to Tehran to fight against the dearth of job opportunities.

Tehran-TAPPersia

Tehran

What to Do in Tehran?

Known as secular and liberal city in Iran, Tehran is far beyond a teeming city with bumper-to-bumper traffic; this metropolis has so much to offer; from the mesmerizing Golestan Palace and Azadi Tower to the heart of ancient glowing Grand Bazaar and the peak of Mount Damavand.
Tehran has a wide range of activities and places to offer. You will be amazed by the astounding museums like Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art, peaceful gardens and serene parks like Mellat Park and glorious Tabiat Bridge at nights, traditional teahouses, and adventurous mountain trains –like Tochal, Kolakchal, Darband, and Darakeh_, are only a few places out of numerous sightseeing you can enjoy visiting in Tehran.

When is the Best Time to Visit Tehran?

 Despite the long summers, Tehran like so many cities of Iran enjoys four distinct seasons. 

So based on what activity you have in mind and what type of weather you like, traveling to Tehran at any time of the year will not cause you any type of trouble. Bear in mind that if you are looking to safely make the Mount Damavand peak, July and August are preferred months and hundreds of people from all around the world, visit Tehran during these two months to have a safe climb to Damavand Mountain. In case you are looking to spend a couple of days at Tochal Ski Resort, it is recommended to visit during winter.

 


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Tehran

Tehran, the capital of Iran, is the largest and the most populous city in the country. A city that has been the capital for more than 200 years. And it is where the most important administrative, executive and political decisions are made. With an area of ​​730 square kilometers, Tehran is the beating heart of Iran. It is the capital of many economic, cultural, scientific, and political aspects of the country. Usually, the Capital of each tourist country is a top destination to visit. So let’s dig deeper and learn more about the places to visit in the New York of Iran!

Important Streets and Squares of Tehran

1. Valiasr Street

Valiasr Street is the longest street in Tehran, Iran, and the Middle East with a length of 17.9 km. It starts from the railway square in the south of Tehran and reaches Tajrish Square in the north. Among the most important attractions of this street, let me mention Mellat Park, Saei Park, Shahr Theater, Daneshjoo Park, Ferdows Garden, etc.

2. Imam Khomeini Square

Imam Khomeini Square - Tehran - Iran

Imam Khomeini Square with the old names of Toopkhaneh and Sepah Square is one of the most historic squares in the city. Interestingly, this square lies in the center of Tehran.

Lalehzar Street, Naser Khosrow, the Entrance of the National Garden, the Sepah Bank Museum, etc. are among the most important sights around it.

3. Hassan Abad Square

Hassan Abad is the name of a square in the southwest of Tehran. This square is located at the intersection of Imam Khomeini Street with Hafez Street and Vahdat Eslami Street. Above all, it is one of the most spectacular parts of the old texture of Tehran.

4. Tajrish Square

Tajrish Square is one of the most beautiful and important squares in the city. You can find it at the highest point of Valiasr Street. There are many commercial, historical, and entertainment centers around this square. The old bazaar, Imamzadeh Saleh, Darband, Niavaran, Saadabad Museum Palace, etc. are among the most famous attractions around Tajrish Square.

Fereshteh Street - Tehran - Iran

5. Fereshteh Street

It is one of the most luxurious streets in Tehran. And you can see some of the most expensive and beautiful houses, shopping malls, and shops in the capital here. The cars on this street are also very luxurious. Fereshteh Street is one of the most popular hangouts of rich people in Tehran.

Historical Places to Visit in Tehran

1. Golestan Palace and Museum Complex

Golestan Palace is the only world heritage site in Tehran. It dates back to the Safavid and Shah Abbas Safavid periods. Afterward, Karim Khan Zand added buildings to this palace. Today, this complex includes Shams Ol-Emareh Mansion, Marble Throne Mansion, Khalvat Karimkhani, Private Palace, Berelian Hall, Emarat-e-Badgir, Almas Mansion, Special Museum, Gallery Museum, Anthropology Museum, Photography Museum, and so on.

2. Niavaran Palace Complex

Golestan Palace - Tehran - Iran

Niavaran Complex includes palaces from the Qajar and Pahlavi eras. And its different buildings are Niavaran Palace, Ahmad Shahi Palace, and Sahebgharanieh Palace.

Today, different parts of Niavaran Palace have been turned into museums full of valuable historical monuments. If you are interested in studying the contemporary history and culture of Iran, be sure to visit the Niavaran historical-cultural complex, especially the Niavaran private palace.

3. Saadabad Palace and Museum Complex

Saadabad Historical and Cultural Complex is a collection of mansions, palaces, and museums that were built in Darband and in the northernmost point of Tehran.

The mansions are in the middle of a lush and green garden.  If you are interested in visiting historical places, the Saad Abad complex is one of the most prominent places regarding the contemporary history of Iran. The last kings of Iran during the Qajar and Pahlavi periods lived in the Saad Abad Palace complex.

4. Tehran Grand Bazaar

Tehran Grand Bazaar is one of the most important bazaars in the country. And it is the beating heart of Iran’s economy. This bazaar, located in the old part of Tehran, is a relic of the Qajar era. This vibrant place is attractive and spectacular not only for domestic tourists but also for foreigners. In addition, due to the variety of goods and cheaper prices, it is a great destination for shopping lovers.The Gate of National Garden - Tehran - Iran

5. The Gate of National Garden

In the crowded and noisy Imam Khomeini street, there is an old and historical gate from the Qajar era. This gate, which was the symbol of the capital before the construction of the Freedom Tower, is one of the most eye-catching gates in the country. Luckily, the Gate of National Garden is still intact. And interestingly, it is older than the garden itself, as well.

6. Tajrish Bazaar

Tajrish Indoor Bazaar is one of the most famous old bazaars in Tehran. Even walking in this place is enjoyable. Therefore, many domestic and foreign tourists plan to visit this bazaar in their itinerary. For many of them, this place is one of the most memorable places in Tehran.

Tajrish Bazaar is a small sample of Tehran Grand Bazaar. It is very famous for its fresh and special fruits and vegetables that are not usually found elsewhere. Handicrafts, spices, herbs, clothes, etc. are other goods here.

Urban Attractions in Tehran 

1. Azadi (Freedom ) Tower

Firstly, Azadi Tower is the most famous urban symbol of the capital. Secondly, this masterpiece is the art of the famous architect, Hossein Amanat. And finally, Inside this contemporary Iranian architecture, there are several theaters, galleries, libraries, and museums. They built this fascinating building to commemorate the 2,500-year celebration of the Persian Empire. Meanwhile, Freedom Tower is a combination of Achaemenid, Sassanid, and Islamic architecture.

2. Milad Tower

Nature Bridge - Tehran - Iran

Milad Tower is one of the urban symbols of Tehran, too. With a height of 435 meters, it is also the tallest tower in Iran. Its attractions and sights include a luxury shopping center open and closed viewing platform. You can enjoy the cinema, escape room, municipal museum, zip line, skydome, and rotating restaurant during your visit.

3. Nature Bridge

Looking for another urban symbol of Tehran? Here it is; Nature Bridge. This bridge connects the two Ab-o Atash and Taleghani parks. Most importantly, fabulous lighting at night, various restaurants and cafes, and a beautiful view of Tehran are some of the attractions of this bridge.

4. Book Garden

Tehran Book Garden is one of the new tourist attractions of the capital. However, it is very popular despite its short period of activity. You can find this cultural complex in the tourist area of ​​Abbasabad, next to the National Library of Iran. There are welfare facilities, especially for children in the garden. Furthermore, this place has a very attractive environment for walking, having fun, and promoting the culture of books and reading.

5. Gonbad-e-Mina Planetarium

Gonbad-e-Mina Planetarium is one of the most beautiful urban structures in Tehran. This stonishing building lies in the heart of the Ab-o Atash Park. They have space-related films and star observations there that you can enjoy. This planetarium is the largest one in the Middle East. This dome is a simulator of the universe, the planets, and stars. In other words, they show astronomical films in three dimensions.Gonbad-e-Mina Planetarium - Tehran - Iran

Parks and Gardens to Visit in Tehran

1. Mellat Park

One of the largest and oldest parks in Tehran is Mellat Park. They built this park during the second Pahlavi era. Mellat Park has a variety of recreational and welfare facilities. A zoo, Mellat Cinema Campus, and Artificial Lake are among the sights of this place. Eventually, Mellat Park with its green space and pleasant environment can make a memorable and unique day for you.

2. Ab-o Atash (Water and Fire) Park

Ab-o Atash Park is a complex of several parks and has amazing attractions such as Tabi’at (Nature) Bridge, fire towers, water fountains, Gonbad-e-Mina Planetarium, and lighthouse.

3. Lavizan Forest Park

Lavizan Forest Park is one of the best parks in Tehran, on the northeast of the capital with a pleasant climate. They launched this forest park project artificially during the Pahlavi era on barren lands.

Lavizan Forest Park - Tehran - Iran

This park has a pleasant and clean environment and a unique view of Tehran city. Thus, it is one of the hangout destinations for young people and families, especially on weekends. Yas (Jasmine) Forest Park and Bird Garden are nearby.

4. National Botanical Garden

National Botanical Garden is located in the Chitgar area on Tehran-Karaj highway. And its design is based on the Iranian garden model. It’s a garden with a relaxing and beautiful environment. While exploring and having fun here, you will get to know a variety of flowers and plants. Not only native plants to Iran but also plants from all around the world.

This garden is the largest botanical garden in the Middle East and one of the top 10 gardens in the world.

Museums to Visit in Tehran

1. National Museum of Iran

National Museum of Iran is the oldest and largest museum in the country. It has two sections: the Museum of Ancient Iran and the Museum of Islamic Sections. You can find the museum on Si-e Tir Street.

National Museum of Iran - Tehran - Iran

It houses artifacts from prehistoric times to the Qajar period. They call this museum the Mother Museum, as well.

2. National Jewelry Museum

National Jewelry Museum is a treasure. It’s a collection of the most precious jewels in the world that you can not find anywhere else. This collection is an amazing and spectacular treasure that, in addition to its material value, holds a part of the ancient history, culture, and creativity of the tasteful and masterful artists of this land.

3. Miniature Garden Museum

The gallery of Miniature Garden Museum has a very beautiful and modern environment. You can see the pictures of our country’s antiquities registered on the World Heritage List. However, there are beautiful replicas of these antiquities in the garden, as well. They have been made in great detail.

Exhibited models include Persepolis, Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat, Naghsh-e Jahan Square, Pasargad, Takht-e Soleyman, Soltaniyeh Dome, Bam Citadel, Armenian Churches, Bisotun Mountain and Inscription, Sheikh Safi Al-Din Ardabili’s Shrine, Tabriz Bazaar, Shushtar Waterfalls, and Qabus Ibn Voshmgir Tower.Miniature Garden Museum - Tehran - Iran

4. Moghadam House Museum

Moghaddam House Museum is one of the historical monuments left from the Qajar period. It belonged to one of the founders of Tehran University of Arts and his French wife. This work is of great value in terms of history, architecture, and the objects in it.

5. Omidvar Brothers Museum

The first anthropological museum in Iran has been Omidvar Brothers Museum. This museum is in the Saadabad complex where they display a collection of items that the Omidvar brothers donated to this museum. They used to travel around the world and bring precious souvenirs with them.

6. National Museum of the Islamic Revolution & Holy Defense

They opened this museum in 2012 with the aim of exhibiting the epic of the zealous nation of Iran during the Revolution and Holy Defense.

7. Iran Wildlife and Nature Museum

You can find this museum in the north of Tehran. This museum displays different species of taxidermy animals and provides a variety of information on Iran’s biodiversity. Iran Wildlife and Nature Museum - Tehran - Iran

Tehran Entertainment Complexes

1. Chitgar Forest Park Complex

If you enjoy seeing the largest artificial lake in the country, Chitgar Forest Park Complex is the place. You can indulge yourself in its entertainments and sights such as boating, aerial skating, free-fall slide, Bam Land Complex, etc. It has a lot to make the best out of your leisure time.

2. Eram Amusement Complex

Eram Park is the largest exciting recreational park in Iran. It also has an artificial lake, three amusement parks named Luna 1, 2, and 3 with 70 playgrounds, and a zoo. However, these are only the most important parts.

3. Bam-e Tehran (Tehran Roof) Recreation Complex

Bame Tehran is located in the highest mountain of the capital, Tochal Peak. That’s why it is a good place to watch the city from a height and enjoy the extraordinary view of Tehran.

4. Darband Nature and Recreation Complex

Darband - Tehran - IranDarband Recreation Complex of Tehran is the first choice of the people of the capital for fun and entertainment. And most probably the first place the locals suggest any tourist visit in Tehran. Darband is also the main mountaineering route in the city.

Extremely beautiful scenery, pleasant weather refresh your soul. While walking on the mountain path of Darband, you pass by various restaurants and vendors. Then you can taste all kinds of sour and sweet street food.

5. Ghazzali Cinema Town

Iran Cinema Town or Ghazali Town is an entertainment-artistic complex. It is a place in the west of Tehran where many Iranian TV series are recorded. Since the main part of the decor of the streets and buildings represent the style of the Reza Shah period and the early reign of Mohammad Reza Shah, they use this place to make films and serials regarding old Tehran.

Religious and Pilgrimage Places in Tehran

1. Shah Abdol-Azim Shrine

The shrine of Shah Abdol-Azim Hassani is the most famous religious center in Tehran and Rey City. Imamzadeh Taher and Imamzadeh Hamzeh are other Tombs in this shrine. The shrine of Abd al-Azim al-Hasani also houses the graves of many famous people such as Nasser al-Din Shah, Haj Tayeb Rezaei, etc.

2. Imamzadeh SalehImamzadeh Saleh - Tehran - Iran

The second most famous religious center in Tehran is Imamzadeh Saleh. This popular shrine is located in the Tajrish region. It is the burial place of one of the sons of Imam Musa Kazem. According to statistics, 30,000 people visit this holy shrine daily.

3. Sepahsalar Mosque

The first and largest mosque in Tehran is the Sepahsalar Mosque. It is the first and largest school, as well. Meanwhile, this mosque is inspired by Iranian architecture and the style of Istanbul mosques.

4. Saint Sarkis Cathedral

Saint Sarkis Cathedral is a church belonging to the Armenians of the capital. You can find this church on Karim Khan Street. It is considered a symbol of Christianity in Tehran, also.

5. Adrian Fire Temple or Tehran Fire Temple

This fire temple dates back to the Qajar period. Adrian Zoroastrian Fire Temple on Si Tir Street is one of the religious places in the capital. It belongs to our Zoroastrian compatriots. This beautiful fire temple also has an anthropological museum.

Adrian Fire Temple - Tehran - Iran

Besides visiting the temple you will learn a lot about the culture and tradition of the Zoroastrian people.

6. Haim Synagogue

As well as Adrian Fire Temple, this synagogue lies on Si-e Tir Street and Oudlajan neighborhood. Anyhow, it is the only national museum of the Jews of Iran. Further than that, in the courtyard of this complex, there is another synagogue belonging to the Poles.

And finally, it is one of the oldest synagogues in Tehran, dating back more than a century.

Natural sights of Tehran

1. Tochal Peak

Tochal is the highest peak in Tehran. With its ski slope, cable car, Tehran rooftop recreation area, hiking trail, waterfall and cave area, sleigh, zip line, etc., it provides an attractive complex for relaxation and fun. Of course, this peak is also the most famous and popular mountaineering route in Tehran.

2. Darakeh

Darakeh - Tehran - Iran

If you are a hiker and mountaineer and enjoy spending time in a clean area with a wonderful climate, Darakeh is a great place for you. This mountainous region is located in the foothills of the northern mountains of Tehran near the two neighborhoods of Velenjak and Evin.

3. Cheshmeh Ali (Ali Spring) in Rey City

Cheshmeh Ali is one of the ancient, scenic, and recreational places of Rey City in the south of Tehran. It is estimated that this spring dates back to 8000 years ago.

In the past, the people of Tehran washed their carpets, and rugs in the water of this spring. They believed that the water of this spring has a property that cleans the carpet well and makes its color brighter and fuller.

Sights around Tehran

1. Dizin Ski Resort

Dizin Ski Resort is the most important ski resort in Iran and the Middle East. And it is one of the best recreational complexes in Tehran, as well. On the other hand, this sports-recreational place is the first Ski resort in Asia and Iran with the approval of the World Ski Federation for holding high-speed competitions until 2022.

2. Shemshak Ski Resort

Shemshak ski Resort - Tehran - IranIn 57 km northeast of Tehran and in the village of Shemshak, lies the Shemshak ski resort. This ski resort was the second resort in Iran after Dizin to win the international title from the World Federation. One of the important facilities of Shemshak is the night track, which is 950 meters long. And ski lovers can go skiing from 18:00 to 22:00.

3. The Beginning of Chalous Road

This road is one of the most beautiful roads in Iran. In fact, Chalous road is the most popular intercity one. The wonderful scenery and the unique nature of the route make the trip very enjoyable.

In addition, it is one of the main access roads to the north of Iran. Rarely happens that a Tehrani citizen doesn’t know it. And haven’t traveled down this road.

4. Ahar Village

Ahar is a spectacular village around Tehran that takes people away from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you are a hiker, walking in the alleys of Ahar Gardens can create a special experience for you. Rural products such as cherries and other colorful and glazed fruits can make it a delicious trip for you. 🙂

5. Shahrestanak Village

Shahrestanak village - Tehran - Iran

Shahrestanak village has a very beautiful nature. It takes on a new color in every season of the year. Its A-thousand-color autumn is amazing. And therefore, it is great for photography.

The alleys of the village gardens are the best place to experience a pleasant walk. By taking a short walk on a refreshing path you can visit Nasser al-Din Shah’s summer palace, as well.

6. Firoozkooh Tang-e Vashi

Tang-e Vashi is an awesome place near Tehran, with cool and pleasant weather. So, it is a great option to escape from the summer heat of Tehran. You can experience hiking in shallow rivers along the way, playing in the water, walking, and hiking in its stunning nature in one day.

Also, you can visit one of the three inscriptions left from the Qajar period on your way walking around. At the end of the day, a spectacular waterfall awaits you down the trail.

7. Damavand

Damavand Peak is the highest volcanic peak in Iran and the Middle East. This famous mountain lies in the north of the country. With 5,670 meters in height, Damavand is the twelfth highest mountain in the world. Annually, many tourists travel to Tehran to climb up this peak and cross it on their mountain climbing record list.

Unveil the Hidden Treasures of Iran: Journey into a World Unknown on Two Wheels! Click here to discover the secrets of cycling through Iran‘s stunning landscapes and timeless traditions

Lavasan - Tehran

8. Lavasan

Lavasan is located in the northeast of Tehran. And it is the closest summer destination to enjoy the satisfying weather. It’s about 37 km away. The lush nature of Lavasan starts from the northern slopes of this city and ends at the beautiful lake of Latyan Dam. The pristine landscapes of this city are outstanding.

Shopping in Tehran

Except for Tehran Bazaar and Tajrish Bazaar where you can buy any stuff you want, in Tehran, there are some streets specialized for some products.

To find out each group of these products you can go to the streets below and find out what you are looking for:

*Home appliances and electronics market: Jomhouri and Hafez streets

*Book and cultural goods market: Enghelab Street

*Handicraft Market: Villa Street

*Household tableware market: Shush Square

*Fabric and curtain market: Zartosht, Molavi, and Abdolabad streets

*Bags and shoe market: Sepahsalar street and Baharestan square

*Second-hand goods, handmade art supplies, and antiques: Parvaneh Friday Bazar on Jomhouri Avenue

Places to Eat in TehranCafe' Tehroon - Tehran - Iran

1. Cafe’s

The cafes on Villa Street, Mirzai Shirazi, Mofteh, Enghelab, and Haft-e Tir streets have gained a great reputation for offering delicious drinks and a pleasant atmosphere.

2. Street Food

The first street food in Iran has been created in Si-e Tir Street, which invites you to a feast of all kinds of food.

3. Restaurants

The bazaar area with its traditional food and restaurants has its regular fans. And the smallest coffee house in the world attracts many tourists here.

4. Food Courts

Food courts have also found a very good place for themselves in Tehran. Among them is the food court of Palladium Shopping Center, the Address Food Hall, etc.

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Ever wondered what makes Tehran so special? It’s not just the city, but the unique souvenirs that capture its spirit! Our latest blog post takes you on a journey through Tehran’s traditional handicrafts and mouth-watering dishes that you can take home as keepsakes. Don’t miss out on this exciting exploration. Click the link to discover more (Tehran Souvenirs)!

FAQs

What does Tehran have to offer?
Tehran has many amazing things to offer. From natural attractions to historical attractions including forest parks, traditional Bazaars, luxurious malls, and many other must-see attractions.
What is Tehran known for?
Besides its crowded streets and its heavy traffic, Tehran is probably best known for its symbol towers, Milad and Azadi. In addition, it has great historical and natural attractions that definitely worth visiting.
What kind of special food does Tehran have?
Tehran has every Iranian traditional food you are willing to try.
Where should I go in Tehran?
You can check out this article to see the top 10 attractions in Tehran.

How many people live in Tehran?
About 9 million people live in Tehran until 2020, the capital city of Iran.
What kind of transportation is better to be taken in Tehran?
Due to its heavy traffic, probably the best transportation in Tehran is the metro. So you can get anywhere you want faster than taking a taxi or going by bus.
Should we expect to see the nightlife in Tehran?
Absolutely! Tehran is also alive at night with less traffic and amazing things to see at night.

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