Isfahan, Iran - Travel Guide

Isfahan, known as "Half the World," is a breathtaking historical city brimming with stunning Islamic architecture, vibrant bazaars, and serene gardens. Its rich history and beautiful artistry make it a captivating destination for cultural immersion.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay3 days

Budget$25/day

Mid-range$50/day

Luxury$250/day

Known For

EsfahanPersepolisShirazYazdKashanNaqsh-e Jahan SquareImam MosqueSheikh Lotfollah MosqueAli Qapu Palace

🇮🇷 Country Information: Iran

CapitalTehran

CurrencyIranian rial (﷼)

Language Persian (Farsi) , Azeri, Kurdish, Gilaki, Mazandarani, Luri, Arabic, Balochi, Turkmen

Phone Code+98

Electricity220V (Type C, F)

Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

Tipping is not common in Iran, especially in traditional settings
However, in some tourist
oriented places or upscale restaurants, a small tip might be appreciated, usually by rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount

Money & Payments

ATMs are not widely available for international cards; bring enough cash or use money exchange offices
Credit cards are generally not accepted due to sanctions
It's better to bring cash (Euros or USD) and exchange it locally
There is a black market for cash where you can get better exchange rates, but it comes with risks

Cultural Norms

Dress code for women requires covering hair and body (hijab) and modest clothing; men should avoid shorts in public
Public displays of affection are not allowed
It is polite to remove shoes when entering homes and mosques
Always use your right hand for greetings, eating, and giving or receiving items
Bargaining is common in bazaars
Do not photograph people without their permission

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Homosexuality is illegal and punishable by law, with severe penalties. There are no legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

Alcohol consumption and possession are strictly forbidden and punishable by law
Drug laws are extremely strict, including for small amounts, with severe penalties including the death penalty

Special Laws

Women must wear a hijab (headscarf) and modest clothing in public
Foreigners are generally required to participate in organized tours or have a registered guide for certain areas
Photography of government buildings or military installations is prohibited
Public displays of affection are not tolerated

Common Phrases

NoKheyr (kheyR) خیر

YesBale (bah-LEH) بله

HelloSalaam (sah-LAHM) سلام

GoodbyeKhodafez (kho-dah-FEZ) خداحافظ

Thank youMerci (mer-SEE) مرسی

Climate

Climate Zone: Semi Arid Steppe Cold

Best Time to Visit

Hot Season: Jun
Aug
Cold Season: Dec
Feb
Earthquakes: Isfahan is in an active seismic zone, so earthquakes can occur year
round

Getting There

Fly into Isfahan International Airport (IFN)
Direct flights from Tehran and other major Iranian cities available
Buses and trains connect Isfahan to other major Iranian cities, though international connections are limited due to sanctions

Getting Around

Taxis (often shared) are common
Ride
sharing apps like Snapp and Tap30 are widely used
Local buses are available for inter
city travel
Walking is a good option in the city center

Health & Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations recommended
Consult a doctor for specific recommendations for Iran
Probiotics may be helpful for digestive health
No specific altitude sickness or malaria concerns for Isfahan itself

Staying Connected

eSIM availability is limited due to sanctions; local SIM cards from Irancell or MCI are generally required
Airalo and Nomad eSIM might not reliably work

Local Cuisine

Beryani regional_speciality

Beryani is arguably Isfahan's most famous dish, a traditional preparation of ground lamb or beef mixed with spices, cooked over a fire in a special pa

Khoresht-e Mast regional_speciality

This unique Isfahani stew is a saffron-colored, sweet, and savory custard-like dish traditionally made with slow-cooked lamb or beef neck, yogurt, sug

Polo and Chelo (Plain Rice) must_try

Rice is a staple in Iranian cuisine, cooked in two main ways: Chelo (plain, fluffy rice with a crispy Tahdig crust) and Polo (rice mixed with other in

Gaz dessert

Gaz is a traditional Persian nougat originating from Isfahan. It is made from the sap of the 'gaz-angebin' plant, sugar, and rose water, and mixed wit

Dough (Doogh) non_alcoholic_beverage

Dough is a savory Iranian drink made from yogurt, water, salt, and sometimes mint or other herbs. It is a refreshing, slightly sour, and fizzy drink t

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

High-Quality Traditional Hotels/Guesthouses Accommodation

Book 2–6 months in advance

The best traditional houses and boutique accommodations, especially those located near Naqsh-e Jahan Square, have limited capacity and book up quickly during peak seasons.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Domestic Flight/Train Tickets (especially to/from Tehran or Shiraz) Transport

Book 1–3 months in advance

Domestic transport, particularly flights and overnight sleeper trains, fill up quickly, especially around holidays and long weekends, as they are essential for covering long distances.

Fun Facts

1. Isfahan was the capital of Iran twice in its history, once under the Safavid Empire when it reached its peak of glory and beauty in the 17th century
2. The city has over 200 fountains, contributing to a serene atmosphere despite its semi-arid climate
3. Isfahan is one of the first two cities in Iran to join the UNESCO World Creative Cities Network (in 2015), recognizing its rich tradition in handicrafts like carpets and pottery
4. During the Qajar period, under Massoud Mirza Zol-e-Sultan, more than 50 historical monuments and Persian gardens were intentionally destroyed in Isfahan

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