Classic Iran Experience

Today, we have a full day city tour of Shiraz. We begin our tour with Nasir al-Mulk Mosque where we have one of the most photogenic mosques in the world to frame! Then, we visit the heritage from 18th century when Karim Khan Zand chose Shiraz as his capital: Arg-e Karim Khan Zand, a castle and the Zand dynasty seat of government; Vakil Complex including a colorful and somehow romantic mosque, a hamamm now functions as a ethnographic museum, and the lively busy Vakil Bazaar; to have some relaxing moments we go to Eram Garden, registered as world heritage site under the title of Persian Garden. We will also visit the tomb of Hafez, a great Persian poet.

Today we will start driving to Isfahan and en route we’ll learn about Achaemenid Empire (550-330 BC) at Persepolis, a world heritage site, where we can hear rich stories about the rise, flourish and demise of the first significant world empire. The huge columns, well-preserved bas-reliefs, huge griffins and gigantic tombs carved into cliffs are among the attractions of the Persepolis. After that, we will visit a necropolis close to Persepolis, known as Naqsh-e Rostam. This necropolis houses tombs of four Achaemenid Emperors carved into the cliff. Then we will continue driving to Isfahan, transfer to hotel, and rest.

In Isfahan, the greatest Safavid era matrimony, Naqsh-e Jahan Square, awaits us to be visited. Naqsh-e Jahan Square is one of the largest and most attractive squares in the world. The two most awe-inspiring mosques in the Islamic world, Abbasi Mosque and Sheikh Lotfolla Mosque, along with Ali Qapu Palace Pavilion on three sides have given the square its allure. These attractions are connected via a row of two-story traditional shops where we can acquire the best handicrafts in Iran. Chehel Sotoun Palace, located inside a beautiful garden is the next stop. Then for the evening, we enjoy the 17th century bridges of Si-o Se Pol and Khaju.

In the early morning, we leave Isfahan for Tehran. En route we go to Kashan, an old green town on the edge of desert. Here, we visit the traditional house of Tabatabai belonging to a noble family; and Fin Garden, a beautiful and historic Persian Garden, listed as a world heritage site. Then we continue to Qom. In the second Stop we Visit “Fatemeh Masoumeh” Mausoleum. After drinking tea and taking some photo we drive to Tehran, transfer to the hotel, and rest.

Today we have a short visit to Golestan Palace, the most important monument of the city and one of the first buildings constructed in Tehran in 18th century. This palace is Tehran’s only sight registered in in UNESCO World Heritage List. Then you’ll be transferred to Tehran’s airport to catch your flight back home!