Highlights of Iran: 5 Days Tours for first timers
Highlights of Iran from Tehran to Shiraz 5 Days
Our 5-day Iran tour package will lead you to explore the incredible wonders and hidden jewels of this enchanting land, from sights and sounds of Tehran to the ancient Persepolis.
Specially designed to travelers who wish to visit best and must see cities in Iran, this classic package offers a great chance for travel lovers to witness Iran’s heritage at a saving cost yet still being nicely taken care of.
Day 1: Tehran
The tour begins at the former US embassy, known as the Den of Espionage since its 1979 seizure, which triggered the Iran–USA hostage crisis. Next, we explore the world-renowned Treasury of National Jewels, home to some of the most valuable gems on the planet. From there, we dive into the lively Grand Bazaar of Tehran, a hub of trade and culture.
Our journey continues at Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once served as the Qajar dynasty’s headquarters in the 18th and 19th centuries. We then step into the National Museum, where over 7,000 years of Iran’s history come to life through a stunning chronological collection of archaeological treasures. Finally, the tour ends in Bagh-e-Melli, formerly Parade Square, surrounded by iconic buildings from Reza Shah’s early 20th-century reign.
Overnight in Tehran
Day 2: Tehran – Qom – Kashan – Abyaneh – Isfahan
We drive to Isfahan, stopping first in Qom to visit the Holy Shrine of Hazrat-e-Masuma. Next, we head to Kashan to explore its stunning historical houses and stroll through Fin Garden, a remarkable example of Persian garden design.
Continuing the journey, we reach Abyaneh, known as the Red Village, where red-clay buildings and narrow alleys preserve the charm of an ancient Iranian settlement. This village serves as a living museum of architecture and culture. Finally, we arrive in Isfahan after covering 475 km (295 miles).
Overnight in Isfahan
Day 3: Isfahan, half of the world
“Isfahan is half the world!” Once one of the largest cities in the 16th and 17th centuries and the capital of the Safavid dynasty, Isfahan holds an extraordinary place in history.
We begin the day at Naghsh-e-Jahan Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s largest city squares. Here, we explore Ali Qapu Palace, a six-story royal residence, followed by the Royal (Imam) Mosque, a masterpiece of Persian Islamic architecture, and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, the private mosque of the royal court. Next, we visit Chehel Sotoun Pavilion (40 Columns), an elegant Safavid-era palace.
From the northern side of the square, we dive into the labyrinth of Qeysarieh Bazaar, wandering through its bustling alleys until we reach the Old Jameh Mosque of Isfahan, another UNESCO-listed landmark and one of Iran’s oldest surviving mosques.
The journey continues in Jolfa, the Armenian quarter, where we visit Vank Cathedral, a stunning symbol of Christianity in Iran. Later, we walk along the banks of the Zayandeh River, admiring the city’s iconic bridges, including Si-o-Se-Pol and Khaju, the most beautiful of them all.
We end the tour with a stroll down Charbagh Street, a historic boulevard that once linked Isfahan’s royal gardens.
Overnight in Isfahan
Day 4: Isfahan – Pasargadae – Persepolis – Shiraz
We drive toward Shiraz, stopping first at Pasargadae to explore the tomb of Cyrus the Great and the remains of the Achaemenid Empire’s first capital. Next, we visit Naqsh-e Rostam, the necropolis of Achaemenid kings, where massive rock reliefs depict scenes from the Sassanid era.
A short drive take us to Persepolis, the awe-inspiring 2,500-year-old ceremonial complex of the Achaemenid Empire. This ancient site hosted grand Nowruz celebrations, marking the Persian New Year at the spring equinox.
Before reaching Shiraz, we stop at Quran Gate, a historic entrance where travelers once passed under the Holy Book’s blessing for a safe journey.
Overnight in Shiraz
Day 5: Shiraz
The day begins at Qavam Mansion, where an orange-scented garden surrounds a stunning example of Qajar-era interior design. Next, we visit the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, famously known as the Pink Mosque, celebrated for its breathtaking display of colors.
At Shah Cheragh Shrine, one of Iran’s most sacred sites, we experience its spiritual significance before stepping into Vakil Bazaar, a beautifully preserved traditional roofed marketplace. Exiting the bazaar, we admire the Vakil Mosque, known for its striking spiral pillars and green marble minbar (pulpit). The nearby Vakil Hammam (Public Bath) offers a glimpse into Iran’s bathing traditions, complete with wax figures depicting historical customs.
The journey continues to Karim Khan Citadel, the Zand dynasty’s former headquarters, before heading to Eram Garden, a lush botanical retreat and UNESCO World Heritage site. As the day winds down, we visit Hafez’s Memorial, where locals gather to honor Shiraz’s beloved 14th-century poet.
This marks the end of the tour. You can depart from Shiraz, fly or take a train to Tehran, or continue your Iranian adventure with one of our other tours.