Iran, a land of breathtaking contrasts, invites you to explore its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the majestic peaks of the Alborz mountains to the vast expanse of the Persian Gulf, this country is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and warm hospitality. Discover the intricate artistry of Persian carpets, the poetic verses of Rumi, and the stunning architecture of mosques that reflect centuries of craftsmanship. With a history that dates back to one of the world's oldest civilizations, Iran promises an unforgettable journey through time and tradition.
Iran experiences a diverse climate, with the best time to visit generally being in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are mild and pleasant. The northern regions, such as Gilan, are lush and green, while the central deserts, like Yazd, offer a unique experience with their arid landscapes. Each region has its own charm, so whether you are trekking in the Alborz mountains or exploring the historical sites of Isfahan, there is always a perfect time to visit.
↑ Back to Top| Date | Holiday Name | Description | Fixed Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fri 21 Mar | Nowruz | Nowruz marks the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring, celebrated with various festivities and family gatherings. | Yes |
| Tue 1 Apr | Islamic Republic Day | This day commemorates the establishment of the Islamic Republic in Iran in 1979, marked by various ceremonies and events. | Yes |
| Sun 13 Apr | Sizdah Bedar | Sizdah Bedar is a traditional Persian festival that celebrates the 13th day of the New Year, where families spend the day outdoors to avoid bad luck. | Yes |
| Wed 25 Jun | Death of Imam Khomeini | This day commemorates the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran. | Yes |
| Mon 16 Jun | Eid al-Adha | Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, honors the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. | No |
| Sun 29 Jun | Eid al-Ghadir | Eid al-Ghadir celebrates the event of Ghadir Khumm, where Prophet Muhammad is believed to have declared Ali as his successor. | No |
| Fri 12 Sep | Ashura | Ashura commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and is observed with mourning rituals. | No |
| Thu 11 Sep | Tasu'a | Tasu'a is the day before Ashura, dedicated to mourning and remembrance of Imam Hussein and his companions. | No |
| Sat 27 Sep | Prophet Muhammad's Birthday | This day marks the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad, celebrated with religious observances and gatherings. | No |
| Mon 6 Oct | Arbaeen | Arbaeen marks the end of the mourning period for Imam Hussein, with millions of pilgrims visiting Karbala. | No |
| Date | Holiday Name | Description | Fixed Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sat 21 Mar | Nowruz | Nowruz marks the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring, celebrated with various festivities and family gatherings. | Yes |
| Wed 1 Apr | Islamic Republic Day | This day commemorates the establishment of the Islamic Republic in Iran in 1979, marked by various ceremonies and events. | Yes |
| Mon 13 Apr | Sizdah Bedar | Sizdah Bedar is a traditional Persian festival that celebrates the 13th day of the New Year, where families spend the day outdoors to avoid bad luck. | Yes |
| Sun 14 Jun | Death of Imam Khomeini | This day commemorates the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran. | Yes |
| Sun 7 Jun | Eid al-Adha | Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, honors the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. | No |
| Thu 18 Jun | Eid al-Ghadir | Eid al-Ghadir celebrates the event of Ghadir Khumm, where Prophet Muhammad is believed to have declared Ali as his successor. | No |
| Tue 1 Sep | Ashura | Ashura commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and is observed with mourning rituals. | No |
| Wed 2 Sep | Tasu'a | Tasu'a is the day before Ashura, dedicated to mourning and remembrance of Imam Hussein and his companions. | No |
| Fri 25 Sep | Prophet Muhammad's Birthday | This day marks the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad, celebrated with religious observances and gatherings. | No |
| Mon 5 Oct | Arbaeen | Arbaeen marks the end of the mourning period for Imam Hussein, with millions of pilgrims visiting Karbala. | No |
Hot desert climate with very low annual rainfall, high temperatures in summer, and mild winters.
Area covered: This zone includes regions such as Kerman and Yazd, characterized by extremely hot summers and mild winters. The landscape is predominantly arid with sparse vegetation.
Rainy Season: Minimal rainfall occurs sporadically, mainly in winter months (December to February).
Dry Season: The dry season lasts throughout the year, with the hottest months being June to August.
Adverse Weather Season: Dust storms can occur, particularly in spring and summer months, leading to reduced visibility and air quality.
Cold semi-arid climate with distinct seasons and moderate rainfall.
Area covered: Regions like Tabriz and Urmia experience cold winters and warm summers, with moderate precipitation mainly in spring and autumn.
Rainy Season: Rainfall is concentrated in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
Dry Season: The dry season occurs in summer (June to August) with very little precipitation.
Adverse Weather Season: Occasional snowstorms can occur in winter, particularly in January and February.
Snow Season: Snow is common from December to February, with significant accumulation in mountainous areas.
Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Area covered: This zone includes areas like Tehran and Isfahan, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Rainy Season: The rainy season occurs from November to April, with the heaviest rainfall in December and January.
Dry Season: The dry season lasts from May to October, with very little rainfall.
Adverse Weather Season: Dust storms can occur in late spring and summer, particularly in June and July.
Snow Season: Snow is rare but can occur in winter months, especially in mountainous areas.
Warm-summer Mediterranean climate with cooler summers and wet winters.
Area covered: Regions like Rasht and Anzali experience cooler summers and mild, wet winters, influenced by the Caspian Sea.
Rainy Season: Rainfall is abundant from October to April, with the heaviest precipitation in November and March.
Dry Season: The dry season occurs in summer (June to September) with lower rainfall.
Adverse Weather Season: Flooding can occur during heavy rain events in winter and spring.
Snow Season: Snow is rare but can occur in mountainous areas during winter.
Hot-summer Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Area covered: Regions like Shiraz and Ahvaz experience hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, influenced by the surrounding topography.
Rainy Season: Rainfall occurs mainly from November to April, with the heaviest in December and January.
Dry Season: The dry season lasts from May to October, with very little rainfall.
Adverse Weather Season: Dust storms can occur in late spring and summer, particularly in June and July.
Snow Season: Snow is rare but can occur in winter months, especially in mountainous areas.
Continental climate with cold winters and hot summers.
Area covered: Regions like Mashhad experience cold winters and hot summers, with significant temperature variations throughout the year.
Rainy Season: Rainfall is mainly in spring and autumn, with the heaviest in March and November.
Dry Season: The dry season occurs in summer (June to August) with very little precipitation.
Adverse Weather Season: Severe cold spells can occur in winter, particularly in January and February.
Snow Season: Snow is common from December to February, especially in mountainous areas.
Subarctic climate with long, cold winters and short, cool summers.
Area covered: High-altitude areas such as the Alborz Mountains experience long, cold winters and short, cool summers.
Rainy Season: Rainfall occurs mainly in summer months, with the heaviest in July and August.
Dry Season: The dry season is typically in winter, with very little precipitation.
Adverse Weather Season: Heavy snowfall can occur in winter, particularly in January and February.
Snow Season: Snow is common from November to April, especially in mountainous areas.
Largest City: Tehran
Coordinates: 35.689, 51.389
Description: Tehran, the bustling capital of Iran, is a vibrant metropolis that serves as the political, economic, and cultural heart of the country. With a rich history dating back to the 9th century, Tehran has evolved into a modern city while still preserving its historical roots. The region is characterized by a blend of contemporary architecture and traditional Persian culture, with numerous museums, parks, and cultural centers. The Alborz mountain range provides a stunning backdrop, offering opportunities for skiing and hiking. Visitors can explore the National Museum of Iran, which houses artifacts from ancient Persia, and the Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the opulence of the Qajar dynasty. The region is also known for its vibrant bazaars, where tourists can experience the hustle and bustle of local life and sample delicious Persian cuisine. Festivals such as Nowruz (Persian New Year) and the Tehran International Book Fair attract visitors from around the world, making Tehran a dynamic hub of cultural exchange.
| Country | Tourist Visa Required | Visa on Arrival | E-Visa Available | Visa Organized in Advance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Canada | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| China | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Egypt | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| France | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Germany | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| India | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Italy | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Japan | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Mexico | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| New Zealand | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Poland | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| South Korea | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Spain | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Turkey | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| United Kingdom | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| United States | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Crime: Crime rates in Iran are relatively low compared to many other countries, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in crowded areas and markets. Travelers are advised to remain vigilant, keep their belongings secure, and avoid displaying valuables in public. Violent crime is rare, but travelers should exercise caution in urban areas and avoid isolated places, especially at night.
Terrorism: Iran has a moderate risk of terrorism, particularly in border regions such as Sistan and Baluchestan, where there have been incidents of violence. Travelers should avoid these areas and stay informed about the security situation. Major cities like Tehran and Isfahan are generally safe, but it is advisable to remain alert and follow local news for any developments.
Natural Hazards: Iran is prone to natural hazards such as earthquakes, particularly in the northern and western regions. Travelers should familiarize themselves with earthquake safety procedures. Additionally, during the summer months, some areas may experience extreme heat, so it is important to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak temperatures. Flooding can also occur in certain regions during the rainy season.
LGBTQ+ Travelers: LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise caution in Iran, as homosexuality is illegal and can lead to severe penalties. Public displays of affection are not accepted, and it is advisable to avoid discussing sexual orientation openly. Travelers should be aware of local customs and laws to ensure their safety.
Solo Travelers: Solo travelers, particularly women, should take extra precautions in Iran. It is recommended to dress conservatively and adhere to local customs regarding behavior and attire. Women should avoid traveling alone at night and may consider joining guided tours for added safety. It is also advisable to stay in reputable accommodations and maintain communication with friends or family.
Summary: Travel to Iran is subject to strict regulations and restrictions.
General Advice: Advise Against All But Essential Travel
| Area | Reason | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Sistan and Baluchestan | Risk of terrorism and kidnapping | high |
| Kurdistan region | Risk of violence and civil unrest | high |
Disclaimer: Travel advice might be out of date. Please check the official UK FCDO website for the latest information.
Summary: Travel to Iran is highly restricted due to safety concerns.
General Advice: Level 4: Do Not Travel
| Area | Reason | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Sistan and Baluchestan | Risk of terrorism and kidnapping | high |
| Kurdistan region | Risk of violence and civil unrest | high |
Disclaimer: Travel advice might be out of date. Please check the official US Department of State website for the latest information.
Summary: Travel to Iran is not recommended due to safety concerns.
General Advice: Avoid non-essential travel
| Area | Reason | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Sistan and Baluchestan | Risk of terrorism and kidnapping | high |
| Kurdistan region | Risk of violence and civil unrest | high |
Disclaimer: Travel advice might be out of date. Please check the official Canada Advice website for the latest information.
Explore direct flights to Iran from various international airports. The table below shows which source airports connect to which destinations in Iran.
Number of major airports served internationally: 4
| Destinations airports in Iran | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Airport |
IKA | MHD | SYZ | TBZ |
| DXB | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| LHR | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| ORD | ✓ | |||
| CDG | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| IST | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| AMS | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| FRA | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| FCO | ✓ | ✓ | ||
