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Shiraz is Iran's sixth-largest city, the largest in central Iran, and one of its oldest. Located 919 kilometers from Tehran, Shiraz sits at an altitude of 1,600 meters and boasts a population of 1.5 million. Known as the City of Roses and Nightingales and the Birthplace of Poets, this ancient capital, with over 2,000 years of history, is considered the heart of Iranian civilization. Despite the numerous conflicts between ethnic groups and regions in Iran today, nearly all Iranians share a fondness for the people of Shiraz.
The tomb of the renowned poet Hafez is located here, attracting countless Iranians daily. Nearby, the unassuming Tomb of Cyrus and the magnificent Persepolis both evoke a sense of awe and regret. Shiraz is also a hub for agricultural products, cultivating roses and grapes. It is also renowned for its silversmithing, carpets, and brocade.
Iran has four distinct seasons, with mild climates in spring and autumn, which are the best tourist seasons (mid-April to June; late September to early November). The temperature is around 15°C, the weather is sunny, suitable for taking photos, and not dry. Southern cities are hotter in the summer, and the average daytime temperature in desert areas can sometimes reach 38°C, so you must be fully prepared for sun protection and hydration.
It should be noted that Iran has a long holiday at the end of March every year to celebrate the New Year, and it is difficult to book hotels at this time.
Pink Mosque
Known as the Pink Mosque because of its vibrant pink glaze, the Al-Maq Mosque, built in 1876, remains remarkably well-preserved and a must-see in Shiraz. The prayer hall is supported by more than a dozen oblique, serpentine-patterned columns, each adorned with carvings and intricate tile patterns. The only difference is the exquisite Persian carpets that filter through the floor. The sunlight filters through the carpets, creating a perfect blend of color and line, creating a kaleidoscope-like experience.
Tomb of Hafez
Hafez (Kaje Shams-o-ddin Mohammad Hafez), born in Shiraz in 1324, was a master of Persian ghazal poetry. Besides writing poetry, Hafez founded the Shiraz School of Literature and elevated the Persian poetic form to an unsurpassed level of perfection.
Hafez died in his birthplace of Shiraz in 1389. His tomb consists of a marble coffin. In 1935, French archaeologist Goulard built a pavilion around the coffin. Hafez's tomb also serves as a garden, creating a beautiful setting. Young Iranians recite or silently recite Hafez's poems before the tomb, not only as a token of remembrance but also as a legacy.
Shiraz is one of Iran’s oldest cities, known for its cultural heritage, poetry, and arts. It was historically the capital of Persia during the Zand dynasty (18th century) and is famous for its role as the center of Persian literature, being the hometown of poets like Hafez and Saadi. The city also boasts many ancient sites, gardens, and mosques, making it a hub of Iranian history and culture.
Shiraz is located in southern Iran, approximately 1,000 kilometers south of Tehran. It is accessible by plane, with Shiraz International Airport serving as the main gateway. The city also has bus and train connections to other major cities in Iran. Within the city, taxis and buses are readily available for transportation, and walking is a great way to explore the historic districts.
The best times to visit Shiraz are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild. Most attractions open from 9 AM to 6 PM, although some may close for a few hours in the afternoon. Fridays and religious holidays might be busier, so visiting on weekdays is recommended for a quieter experience.
The entrance fees for major attractions like Nasir al-Mulk Mosque and the Vakil Bazaar are typically very affordable, ranging from 100,000 to 500,000 IRR (approximately 1-3 USD). Tickets can generally be bought at the entrance of each attraction, though for some sites, online booking may be available during peak tourist seasons.
For most attractions in Shiraz, booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is advisable for popular sites such as the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque during the high tourist season (March-May). A few days in advance should suffice for booking tickets for tours or specific events.
To fully explore Shiraz, including its major attractions and gardens, 2-3 days is ideal. This allows time to visit the mosques, tombs, gardens, and historical sites, with some leisure time to explore the city's vibrant culture and markets.
Guided tours are available in English, Persian, and other languages at major sites such as Nasir al-Mulk Mosque and the Eram Garden. Audio guides are also available at select museums and historical sites, offering a deeper understanding of Shiraz's rich history.
Night visits are not common for most sites, but the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque is beautifully lit in the evenings. Special night events or festivals may be held during major Iranian holidays such as Nowruz (Persian New Year) in spring.
Shiraz can be crowded during the spring and major holidays (such as Nowruz). The least crowded times to visit are during the weekdays, particularly Tuesday to Thursday, outside of the peak tourist season.
Most attractions, such as the Eram Garden and Vakil Bazaar, have rest areas, shops, and food stalls. Clean toilets are typically available at most major tourist sites, and water is sold at kiosks near attractions.
Many of the major attractions in Shiraz, like Eram Garden and the tomb of Hafez, are accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, though some sites may have uneven paths or stairs. It’s advisable to check specific sites for wheelchair access and other accommodations.
Cash (Iranian Rial) is widely used in Shiraz, and mobile payments are not commonly accepted. It is recommended to carry cash for most transactions, though some higher-end restaurants or hotels may accept cards.
Yes, Shiraz offers a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options. Traditional Persian dishes such as Khoresht (stew) and Fesenjan (pomegranate and walnut stew) are often vegetarian-friendly.
Yes, Shiraz has many souvenir shops, especially in the Vakil Bazaar, where you can find Persian carpets, traditional jewelry, spices, and handcrafted ceramics.
After visiting Shiraz, the best options for continuing your trip are by bus or train to other cities like Isfahan or Yazd. Domestic flights are also available from Shiraz International Airport to major cities in Iran.
