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Tehran is the capital of Iran and the capital of Tehran Province. It is the largest city in Iran and one of the largest cities in West Asia.
For tourists from around the world, Tehran is a magnet, drawing everyone in. Its Gulistan Palace complex houses the Peacock Throne of the Persian emperor, its Jewelry Museum houses the world's largest uncut pink diamond, and its mosques, with their near-perfect architectural style, are a model of the Persian Empire... Tehran is destined to be a city that people constantly flee, yet constantly draw closer to.
Iran has four distinct seasons, with mild weather in spring and autumn. The best time to travel is from April to June and from September to November.
National Museum of Iran
One of the world's important museums, it has a total construction area of 18,000 square meters and houses as many as 300,000 cultural relics, including prehistoric relics, relics from the early AD to the Islamic period, and relics from the late Islamic period.
Golestan Palace
This is one of the rare European-style buildings in Iran. It is said that when the Qajar King Nasser al-Din traveled around Europe, he fell in love with the architecture there, so he came back and ordered the construction of this Western-style palace.
National Treasure Museum of Iran
It specializes in collecting thrones, crowns, swords, jewels, and other palace items from various dynasties in Iran.
Recommended play time: 2-3 days
Tehran is the capital and largest city of Iran, with a rich history that dates back over 2,500 years. It became the capital of Persia in the late 18th century and has since developed into a cultural, political, and economic hub of the country. Tehran is home to many important historical sites, museums, and vibrant bazaars.
Tehran is located in northern Iran, at the foot of the Alborz Mountains. The city is well-connected by a range of transportation options, including taxis, buses, and the Tehran Metro system, which is an efficient and affordable way to get around. Walking is also a great way to explore the central areas, especially for visitors interested in the city’s vibrant street life and markets.
The best times to visit Tehran are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild. Most attractions open around 9 AM and close by 6 PM, though some, like the Golestan Palace, may have extended hours. Fridays are typically quieter, as it is the weekend in Iran.
Entrance fees for major attractions like Golestan Palace or the National Museum range from 200,000 to 500,000 IRR (approximately 1 to 3 USD). Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance, though it’s advisable to check if online booking is available for specific attractions.
It’s not always necessary to book tickets in advance for most attractions, but it’s recommended to book tickets for popular sites like the Golestan Palace or the National Museum during peak tourist seasons (spring and summer). Booking a few days in advance is sufficient.
To explore the major sights in Tehran, 2 to 3 days are ideal. This allows time to visit the top museums, historical sites, and the Grand Bazaar. For a deeper exploration, consider staying longer to explore more neighborhoods and parks.
Guided tours are available in English, Persian, and other languages at major attractions. Audio guides are also available at many museums, including the National Museum of Iran and Golestan Palace, offering a deeper insight into the city’s rich history and culture.
Night visits are not common for most attractions, but Tabiat Bridge is beautifully lit up at night, offering a scenic evening stroll. Some museums may host special events or night exhibitions during the cultural festivals.
Tehran can be crowded, especially on weekends (Friday and Saturday). The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays, especially Tuesday to Thursday mornings. Visiting during the off-peak tourist seasons (fall or early spring) can also help avoid crowds.
Most major attractions, such as Golestan Palace, the National Museum, and Sa’dabad Palace, have clean restrooms, cafés, and souvenir shops. The Grand Bazaar offers numerous food stalls and rest areas to enjoy local snacks and drinks.
Many of the major attractions in Tehran, like Golestan Palace and Sa’dabad Palace, are accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available. However, some older sites and the Grand Bazaar may have narrow, uneven paths that can be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Cash (Iranian Rial) is the preferred method of payment for most transactions in Tehran. Credit cards and mobile payments are not widely accepted, so it’s essential to have cash on hand when shopping or dining. ATMs are available throughout the city.
Yes, Tehran offers a wide variety of vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options, particularly in local Persian restaurants and cafés. Vegan-friendly dishes like fresh salads, lentil stews, and falafel are commonly found.
Yes, Tehran has numerous souvenir shops, especially in the Grand Bazaar and near tourist sites. Typical souvenirs include Persian rugs, spices, hand-painted ceramics, and copperware.
From Tehran, taxis, buses, and the metro are ideal for continuing your journey to nearby attractions or cities. For trips outside Tehran, buses and trains connect to major destinations like Isfahan, Shiraz, and Tabriz.
