Persepolis

Introducing Persepolis

Persepolis is the fifth capital site built after Darius I of the Persian Empire ascended the throne in order to commemorate the successive kings of the Achaemenid Empire. It is located in a basin in the Zagros Mountains, 51 kilometers northeast of Shiraz in Iran, at the foot of a mountain called "Mount Kindness" by the locals.

The Greeks called this capital "Persepolis," meaning "Capital of Persia," while the Iranians called it "Takht Jamshid," meaning "Throne of Maumshid." Ancient Persia was the kingdom of the gods, and Jamshid was the name of a king in ancient Persian mythology.

This was once the heart of the world's most powerful empire, a vast warehouse storing the empire's wealth. Legend has it that when Alexander the Great conquered this place, he needed 10,000 mules and 5,000 camels to remove the treasures from the warehouse.

Climate and best time to travel

Iran has four distinct seasons, with mild weather in spring and autumn, making it the best time to travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

Tickets

200,000 rials, 1 RMB = 5278 Iranian rials

Attraction opening hours

April to October 8:00-18:00

November to March 7:30-17:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Persepolis

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Persepolis was founded by King Darius I in 518 BCE as the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. It was a symbol of the empire's power and grandeur. Persepolis was the site of major ceremonies, including the annual Nowruz celebrations. The city was partially destroyed by Alexander the Great in 330 BCE, but its ruins remain a testament to ancient Persian civilization and its architectural ingenuity.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Persepolis is located near the modern city of Shiraz in Fars Province, Iran. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from Shiraz, which is about 60 kilometers away. Public transportation options are limited, but buses to Persepolis are available from Shiraz. There is no metro system in Shiraz or Persepolis.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Persepolis is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours during peak tourist seasons. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. The site can get hot during the summer months, so visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon is advisable to avoid the heat.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Persepolis is approximately 300,000 Iranian Rials (about 10 USD for international visitors). Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance. There is no option for online booking, so visitors should buy tickets directly at the site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for Persepolis. Tickets are available for purchase at the entrance, and the site rarely experiences long lines except during peak tourist seasons (such as Nowruz or the summer months). However, booking a guided tour in advance may enhance the experience.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Persepolis, plan for at least 2-3 hours. This will allow you to visit the main ruins, including the Gate of All Nations, the Apadana Palace, and the Persepolis Museum. A guided tour will take longer, as it will provide in-depth historical context for each section of the site.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights in Persepolis include:

• The Gate of All Nations, the grand entrance to the city.
• The Apadana Palace, known for its impressive reliefs of Persian kings and foreign ambassadors.
• The Persepolis Treasury, which housed the empire's treasures and artifacts.
• The Tomb of Artaxerxes III, one of the many royal tombs in the area.
• The Hall of 100 Columns, a symbol of Persian grandeur.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at Persepolis, and they can be arranged at the entrance. Most guides speak Persian, but some may offer services in English. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, are also available for rent at the site.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography at Persepolis are:

• The Gate of All Nations, offering a grand view of the entire complex.
• The top of the Apadana Palace, which provides a wide view of the surrounding ruins.
• The Tomb of Artaxerxes III, located on a hill, offering panoramic views of Persepolis and the surrounding landscape.
• The main entrance area during sunset for the best lighting and dramatic shadows on the ruins.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended route for visiting Persepolis is as follows:

• Start at the Gate of All Nations to get a sense of the grandeur of the site.
• Visit the Apadana Palace and its famous bas-reliefs.
• Explore the Persepolis Treasury and view the artifacts on display.
• Head to the Hall of 100 Columns for a final look at the main ruins.
• Finish with a visit to the nearby Tomb of Artaxerxes III for a panoramic view of the site.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available at Persepolis. The site is open during daylight hours only. Special tours can be arranged through local agencies for a more in-depth historical experience, but they typically take place during the day.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Persepolis can get crowded during the peak tourist seasons, especially around Nowruz (Persian New Year) in March and during the summer months. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or during the off-peak seasons of autumn and spring.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities at Persepolis include public toilets, a small gift shop, and a café offering light refreshments. Water and snacks are available, but it is advisable to carry your own supplies, especially if visiting during hot weather.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

While Persepolis is accessible for elderly and children, some areas, particularly the steep staircases of the Apadana Palace, may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues. It is recommended to check with the site staff for accessibility options if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is the preferred method of payment at Persepolis, and credit cards or mobile payments are generally not accepted. It is recommended to carry Iranian Rials in cash for entry fees, souvenirs, and other purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few restaurants and cafés near Persepolis offering traditional Persian food, including kebabs, stews, and rice dishes. For a wider selection, head to Shiraz, which is about an hour away and offers many dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and halal food options are available at local restaurants near Persepolis and in Shiraz, where Persian cuisine is rich in vegetable-based dishes such as stews, salads, and rice dishes.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few hotels near Persepolis, including simple guesthouses and mid-range hotels. For a wider range of accommodation, head to Shiraz, where you can find luxury hotels and international chains.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include:

• Pasargadae, the tomb of Cyrus the Great and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The Eram Garden in Shiraz, a beautiful Persian garden.
• The Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, also known as the Pink Mosque, in Shiraz.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near Persepolis offer various items such as Persian handicrafts, miniature ruins, traditional rugs, and local sweets. The most popular souvenirs include Persian carpets and jewelry.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Persepolis, you can travel to Shiraz by taxi or private car. Shiraz is the nearest major city and offers excellent transportation options, including flights, buses, and trains to other parts of Iran.