Iran - Discover Persia
14 days
From
$ 3199
Duration14 days
Follow in pilgrims' footsteps and explore the history of old Persia and the spirit of the new Iran. Discover magnificent mosques, small mountain villages, and colourful gardens, and gain deeper insight into this ancient land. Wander the streets of ancient capitals and desert cities, and witness spectacular Zoroastrian temples. Your expert CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will take the hassle out of planning and organizing, leaving you free to uncover the gems of Iran at the best cultural monuments and in the stalls of exotic bazaars.
This tour is operated by
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Duration: 14 daysService level: Standard
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Physical Grading: Light
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Ages: 12+
Tour Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1: Tehrān
There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting.
Arrive at any time.
Flights often arrive very late at night or early in the morning in Tehran. Keep in mind the evening welcome meeting when booking your travel.
Day 2: Tehrān/Yazd
Explore Tehran with a local guide, visiting the Sa’d Abad Palace and National Jewel Museum before boarding an evening train to Yazd.
Meals: B
Day 3: Yazd
The desert city of Yazd is known as the centre of the Zoroastrian religion. Learn more about the fascinating customs of one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions and take in the unique architecture of this city.
With some free time, opt to rent a bike, relax in a teahouse, or wander the bazaars.
With some free time, opt to rent a bike, relax in a teahouse, or wander the bazaars.
Tour the old town of Yazd, marvelling at the unique towers that scatter the city. Visit the Jameh Mosque, Amir Chakhmaq Complex, Zoroastrian Fire Temple, and the Towers of Silence burial grounds.
Meals: B
Day 4: Yazd/Zein-o-Din Caravanserai
Spend the morning exploring the labyrinth streets of Yazd. Drive to Zein-o-din Caravenserai, an old inn dating back to the 16th century situated on the ancient Silk Road. Tonight experience the way of life of old Silk Road traders.
Free morning in Yazd. Drive to the historic Zeinodin Caravanserai and overnight.
Meals: B, D
Day 5: Zein-o-Din Caravanserai/Kermān
Travel to one of Iran's oldest cities. Kerman was founded in the early third century and the city has historically played an important role on the Trans-Asian trade routes.
Travel to the region of Kerman, home to the villages of Rayen and Māhān, both steeped in history.
Meals: B
Day 6: Kermān
Spend the day visiting highlights of the area. Visit the Shah Nematollah Vali Shrine and Shahzadeh Garden. Later, visit the Bathhouse Museum and the Rayen Citadel.
Meals: B
Day 7: Kermān/Shiraz
There is free time to explore the city's beautiful Regents mosque, Nasiralmolk mosque, Khan madrasa, Bagh-e Eram gardens, and perhaps even listen to some poetry being recited at the Hafez tomb.
This vibrant student city is buzzing with life and is a great place to interact with some Iran's youth.
This vibrant student city is buzzing with life and is a great place to interact with some Iran's youth.
Transfer from Kermān to Shiraz . Explore the city and visit the Karim Khan Citadel, Vakil Mosque, and the tombs of Hafez and Sa’adi.
Meals: B
Day 8: Shiraz
Travel to Persepolis to explore this fascinating sight. On the way back to Shiraz, visit the rock cut tombs at Naqsh-e-Rostam, the burial place of Darius the Great and his successors.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Persepolis, the ceremonial palace of Darius, and admire its amazingly well-preserved carvings. Later, wander the streets and mingle with the students in laid-back Shiraz.
Meals: B
Day 9: Shiraz/Isfahan
Embark on an included visit to Pasargadae and explore the capital and burial site of Cyrus the Great.
Stop at the Koran Gate and the UNESCO-listed Pasargadae complex en route to Isfahan, one of the finest Islamic cities in the world.
Meals: B
Day 10: Isfahan
Wander the tree-lined boulevards of Isfahan, the jewel of ancient Persia. On a city tour, visit Imam Square and mosque, Sheikh Lotfallah Mosque, and the Ali Qapu Palace. Wander the bazaar and learn the history of Isfahan's bridges.
Stop in a miniatures shop and learn about this intricate art form before sampling some delicious gaz, a candy famous in Isfahan.
Stop in a miniatures shop and learn about this intricate art form before sampling some delicious gaz, a candy famous in Isfahan.
Tour the beautiful city of Isfahan, enjoying the famous square, mosques, and bartering at the bazaar. Hang out on the many bridges that make Isfahan unique, or shop for an authentic Persian rug.
Meals: B
Day 11: Isfahan
Spend a full day exploring this gorgeous city.
Meals: B
Day 12: Isfahan/Abyāneh
This beautiful mountain village has preserved its traditions, language and dress. Wander the quiet lanes, sample dried fruit, and relax in the hotel overlooking the green fields below.
Take a scenic drive through Natanz to the mountain village of Abyaneh, known for having retained its ancient charm. Enjoy a village walk to learn more.
Meals: B
Day 13: Abyāneh/Tehrān
In Kashan, opt to visit Fin Garden, Khan-e Borujerdi house, and Agha Bozorg Mosque.
En route to Tehran, visit Kashan. Back in Tehran, visit Imam Khomeini's shrine.
Meals: B
Day 14: Tehrān
Depart at any time.
Meals: B
Inclusions
Included
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Tehran city tour (full-day)
- Yazd city tour including Zoroastrian sights
- Rayen and Mahan villages and sights visit
- Shiraz city tour including the tombs of Hafez and Sa'adi
- Persepolis excursion with guided tour
- Pasargadae visit
- Isfahan city tour including the famous square and mosques
- Abyaneh village stay with guided walk
- Fin Garden visit (Kashan)
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
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Transport
Air-conditioned bus, Train -
Accommodation
Hotels (10 nts), Guesthouse (2 nts), Caravanserai (shared facilities, 1 nt)