Kashan

What are the most recommended things to do in Kashan?

  • Visit the historic Fin Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most beautiful Persian gardens in Iran.
  • Explore the traditional Kashan Bazaar, a vibrant market where you can shop for Persian carpets, spices, and handicrafts.
  • Admire the unique architecture of the Borujerdi House, a traditional Iranian house with remarkable wind towers.
  • Visit the Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse, known for its intricate tilework and stunning dome.
  • Take a trip to the Agha Bozorg Mosque, famous for its symmetrical architecture and tranquil atmosphere.

Introducing Kashan

Kashan is a city in central Iran, located on the eastern slopes of the Zagros Mountains. As Iran's leading ceramic production center, it is also renowned for its carpet production. It also boasts cotton textile mills and handicrafts such as embroidery, copperware, and perfumery. Notably, Iranian rose water is internationally renowned. Traditionally distilled near Kashan, it is exported to Europe and used as an ingredient in Parisian perfume.

The city of Kashan is full of traces of history. The beautifully decorated traditional houses, the ancient Persian gardens on the outskirts of the city, and the buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries are all local tourist attractions.

Climate and best time to travel

The desert and semi-desert climate is suitable year-round, but the hot months of July and August should be avoided. Kashan is renowned as a rose-producing city, and every May, a rose festival is held to celebrate the blooming of roses. Even after the blooming season has passed, the scent of roses lingers in the air for a while.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Sultan Ahmed Bathhouse

This beautiful hammam, over 500 years old, boasts a distinct Shia Islamic interior, with intricate geometric patterns and blue patterned tiles adorning the dome and columns. The entrance to the ancient bathhouse is particularly elaborate, with each door featuring a brass bolt—a stick and a ring. In the past, men and women would knock on the door with different bolts, allowing the attendants inside to identify the visitor's gender.

Tickets: 75,000 riyals

Opening hours

Summer 9:00-19:00

Winter 9:00-17:00


Fern Gardens

Located in Kashan, Isfahan Province, this quintessential Persian garden, built in 1590 during the Safavid period, boasts a 500-year history and is the oldest surviving garden in Iran. Spanning 2.3 hectares, it features a large courtyard surrounded by a round tower. Famous for its natural fountains, it also features palaces dating back to the Safavid and Qajar eras. Lush trees, emerald green lawns, a blue bathing pool, historic buildings, and towering walls make it one of Iran's most remarkable gardens.

Tickets: 150,000 riyals

Opening hours

Summer 9:00-19:00, Winter 9:00-17:00


Most Popular FAQs for Kashan

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

Kashan is an ancient city with a rich history that dates back over 7,000 years. It was a major stop on the Silk Road and a hub for the Persian aristocracy during the Safavid period. The city is renowned for its stunning traditional houses, Persian gardens, and Islamic architecture. It is also known for its rosewater production, which has been a part of its cultural heritage for centuries.

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

Kashan is located in central Iran, about 250 km south of Tehran. You can reach Kashan by bus or train from Tehran, with buses being the most convenient option. Once in Kashan, taxis or walking are the best ways to explore the city's attractions.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions in Kashan are open from 9 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the city's gardens are at their most beautiful.

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

The entrance fees for major attractions in Kashan are typically around 100,000 to 300,000 IRR (approximately 1-2 USD). Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of each site, with some attractions offering online booking during peak seasons.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary for most attractions. However, it is advisable to book tickets for guided tours or during the busy tourist seasons, particularly around Nowruz (Persian New Year), to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Kashan's main attractions can be completed in one to two days, depending on your pace and interest in exploring the traditional houses and gardens.

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

  • Fin Garden, a historical Persian garden with intricate water channels and lush greenery.
  • Kashan Bazaar, offering a glimpse into traditional Iranian market life.
  • Borujerdi House, a masterpiece of traditional Persian architecture.
  • Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse, known for its beautiful tilework and domed ceilings.
  • Agha Bozorg Mosque, with its symmetrical design and tranquil courtyard.

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

Guided tours are available for many attractions in Kashan, including Fin Garden and Borujerdi House. Tours are typically offered in English and Persian, with some guides speaking French and German during peak tourist seasons.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The roof of Borujerdi House offers a panoramic view of the city and surrounding desert landscape.
  • Fin Garden, with its beautiful layout and historical significance, is perfect for photography.
  • The domes of Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse provide excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Start with a visit to the historic Fin Garden, followed by a walk through the Kashan Bazaar.
  • Explore the architectural marvel of Borujerdi House and then head to the nearby Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse.
  • Finish the day with a visit to the Agha Bozorg Mosque.

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

While there are no light shows or night tours in Kashan, the city's architecture and gardens are beautifully lit at night, making it a pleasant experience to walk around, particularly near Fin Garden and the mosques.

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

Kashan is relatively quiet compared to other major cities in Iran. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the winter months (December to February), when the weather is cooler.

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

Most major attractions in Kashan provide basic facilities such as toilets, food vendors, and shops selling local products. Rest areas are also available in Fin Garden and other larger sites.

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

Many of Kashan's attractions, such as Fin Garden and the bazaars, are accessible to elderly and disabled visitors. However, some traditional houses, like Borujerdi House, have uneven floors and stairs, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash (Iranian Rial) is preferred in most places. Credit cards and mobile payments are not widely accepted, so it's best to carry sufficient cash during your visit.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Mahinestan Raheb, a traditional restaurant offering local Kashan dishes in a historical setting.
  • Abbasi Restaurant, located near Fin Garden, serves Persian cuisine and is a great spot for lunch or dinner.
  • Café Naderi, a cozy spot to enjoy coffee and traditional Iranian sweets.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, Kashan offers a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options. Most traditional Persian restaurants will have dishes that cater to these dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Manouchehri House, a charming boutique hotel in the city center, offering traditional Persian architecture.
  • Kashan Hotel, a modern option located near the city center, offering comfortable accommodations.
  • Agha Bozorg Hotel, set in a beautifully restored historical building.

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

  • The city of Isfahan, about a 2-hour drive away, is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites.
  • Visiting the village of Abyaneh, known for its red mud-brick houses and rich culture, is also a great option.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, Kashan has many souvenir shops offering Persian carpets, rosewater products, ceramics, traditional textiles, and handicrafts such as miniature paintings and copperware.

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

After visiting Kashan, you can continue your trip by bus, train, or taxi to nearby cities like Isfahan, Tehran, or Abyaneh. The bus station and train station in Kashan are easily accessible for further travel.