Ancient Persia in Depth
Discover Iran in a 15-day tour
Original price was: €1,690.€1,520Current price is: €1,520.
During the centuries, Iran has flourished through its extraordinary tangible and intangible heritage. Majestic palaces, ancient castles, awe-inspiring mosques, picturesque villages, traditional foods and beverages display the vibrant blend of Persian cultures.
On this attractive journey, you will explore the modern landmarks of Tehran, travel to the adobe city of Yazd, and be impressed by the grandeur of poetic city of Shiraz, and admire the breathtaking magnificence art of Isfahan.
Your guide will accompany you from the beginning to the end of the tour. You will discover Persian culture and history, immerse yourself in the culinary paradise of Iran, taste authentic dishes and get to know the warmth and hospitality of the Iranian people.
with SURFIRAN, you witness the beauties of Iran reveal before your eyes. experience the warmth of its people, the richness of its culture, and the attraction of its historical wonders.
DAY 1: TEHRAN (ARRIVAL)
After arriving at Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) in Tehran, our representative will meet and greet you at the airport. The local representative will transfer you to your hotel to rest.
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 2: TEHRAN
Today, we will take you to a lovely park-like setting to visit the Sa’d Abad Palace. This was the place of residence of the Pahlavi dynasty. Then, we will visit Tajrish Bazaar and Emamzadeh Saleh Mausoleum. They are located in the northern part of Tehran.
Afterwards, we will go to Darband. Darband is an old village in Shemiran. This is 1700 meters above sea level and is one of the main starting routes taken by mountaineers for reaching the central Alborz Range. This place has many modern and traditional cafes and restaurants, located both indoors and outdoors, we will have a delicious lunch in one of them.
Later, we will visit the NatureBridge (Tabiat Bridge). Cross the Bridge, is an award-winning footbridge designed by local architects completed in 2014, the structure spans 270 m (890 ft).
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 3: TEHRAN
This morning, we will take you to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the lavish Golestan Palace. Built during the Qajar Dynasty, which rose to power in the late 1700s, this fabulous walled complex is centered on a landscaped garden with tranquil pools.
Then, we will walk around the Tehran Grand Bazaar. The second largest grand bazaar in Iran after Tabriz.
In the afternoon, we will visit the National Museum of Iran, where we can see fabulous historical items from 5000 BC to the advent of Islam in Iran which shows a brief history of our land.
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 4: TEHRAN – KASHAN (245 KM)
Leaving Tehran behind, we’ll travel south to Kashan, a town originally famous for its Textiles, Rose Water, and Ceramic production.
Fin Garden (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is our first stop; a relaxing and visually impressive Persian Garden with water channels all passing through a central pavilion. There is also the chance to buy some rose water, a local specialty, outside of the site.
Then, we will visit Tabatabaei’s and Boroujerdi’s Traditional Houses. They were built about 130 years ago during the reign of the Qajar dynasty (1857) by Iranian famous architects.
Just behind the Boroujerdi’s House, there is a traditional bathhouse called the Sultan Amir Ahmad Bath, which is called the bride of traditional bathes of Iran.
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 5: KASHAN – ABYANEH – ISFAHAN (270 KM)
Check out after breakfast, we will head to Isfahan. Our first stop this morning will be in Abyaneh Village. Abyaneh Village is known as the Red Village because of its red soil and houses. The houses of Abyaneh bear an ancient architectural style, featuring the use of clay as the construction material and latticed windows and wooden doors.
Our overland journey continues in Isfahan. As the 17th-century capital of the Safavid Empire, Isfahan was one of the world’s greatest cities– architecturally striking, wealthy beyond imagine, and politically powerful with Europeans, Ottomans, Indians, and Chinese coming to its court– the heart of a vast Persian Empire that stretched from the Euphrates River in present-day Iraq to the Oxus River in Afghanistan. Indeed, its grandeur inspired the rhyming proverb, Isfahan Nesf-e Jahan (Isfahan is half of the World).
Together with our expert guide, we will begin our exploration of the city by visiting some of the centuries-old, still elegant bridges that span the Zayandeh River. For example, the famous bridges of Sio-se-pol and Khajou. There are sluice gates below the bridge to let the water run off the Zayandeh River in the spring, and there are beautiful stony archways above each gate.
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 6: ISFAHAN
Our exploration starts in the Chehel Sotun Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Set in a landscaped and forested park in front of a tranquil reflecting pool, this graceful pavilion was built by Shah Abbas II for entertainment and court receptions. Entering through a portico with twenty slender wooden columns, we’ll discover soaring halls embellished with frescoes, paintings, and mosaics; the Hall of Mirrors is especially breathtaking!
Before heading to our next destination, let’s explore Iranian Miniature Art, a traditional painting style dating back to the 13th century. Known for its intricate detail and vibrant colors, these miniature works often depict historical events, poetry, or everyday life. This art form holds deep cultural significance in Iran, reflecting the values and stories of Persian civilization, and remains respected and celebrated today.
Then, we will experience Carpet Weaving. A traditional craft that creates rugs and carpets on looms by hand. Originating in cultures like Persia, it involves intricate designs and skilled craftsmanship, typically using natural fibers such as wool or silk. Handwoven carpets are valued for their quality and artistry, reflecting cultural heritage and local patterns.
Next up is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Naghsh-e Jahan Square (Royal Square). This 17th-century site is one of the largest public spaces in the world. Here in the square, we’ll visit the 17th-century Shah Mosque, revered as a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and easily recognized by its magnificent tile-work and soaring cupola and minarets. We will also visit the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, also known as the Ladies Mosque, as it was built for the Shah’s harem, renowned for its brightly colored domed ceiling, where the light creates the image of a peacock. In the Ali Qapu Palace, we’ll marvel at its beautiful music rooms and the balconies where Safavid kings would sit to enjoy the polo matches unfolding in the square below.
We’ll end our exploration of the square by visiting the Qeisarieh Bazaar. With hundreds of local vendors that specialize in traditional arts and crafts, it’s a wonderful place to shop for pottery, enamel, jewelry, and delicately inlaid board games.
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 7: ISFAHAN
Continue our exploration in Isfahan at a UNESCO World Heritage Site, simple at first glance but wondrous in its rich detail and bold design, the Masjed-e Jamé is another masterpiece of Iranian architecture, covering nearly 5 acres in the heart of this historical city. This is one of the oldest congregational mosques in the country, and its construction and embellishment over the past twelve centuries illustrate several important periods in Islamic architecture.
In the city’s Armenian quarter, we’ll delve more deeply into the region’s complex history as we will visit several churches including the 17th-century Vank Church with its lavishly decorated interior and unique blend of Islamic and European architectural elements.
Also, we will visit the Music Museum where we will find a collection of local and national Iranian instruments. The Music Museum of Isfahan highlights Iran’s rich musical heritage with a diverse collection of traditional instruments and exhibits. Recognized as part of UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage, Persian music embodies the country’s centuries-old traditions and collective identity. The museum is vital in preserving this legacy, allowing future generations to connect with their musical history.
In the afternoon, we will visit Hasht Behesht Palace and Garden. At this octagonal palace, we can see gangs of retired men who spend their free time chatting with the visitors.
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 8: ISFAHAN – NAEEN – CENTRAL DESERT(440 KM)
Leaving Isfahan behind, our first stop this morning will be in Naeen, an ancient community with origins dating back to the 8th century. Over there, we will visit the Jame’ Mosque of Naeen.
We then continue our journey to the magnificent Central Desert of Iran, also called “Kavir-e-Markazi”, where we will explore the edge of the sandy desert, which makes our stay special, as most other places in this region are some distance from the real desert. In this place we will have the opportunity to visit the Mesr desert, the historical villages and the locals, enjoy their home-cooked food and learn about their customs and way of life. Watching the sunset and sunrise as well as stargazing at night will make our trip unforgettable.
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 9: CENTRAL DESERT – MEYBOD – YAZD (300 KM)
Our overland journey continues to the small town of Meybod, where our first impression might be its striking monochromatic architecture of desert brick. But set along an ancient trade route, Meybod also offers several fascinating sites to visit including its Narin Castle, Caravanserai, Ice-House, and Pigeon Tower. Our first stop in Meybod is at the Narin Castle a 2000-year fortress from the Sassanid Dynasty. Then, continue to the Shah Abbasi Caravanserai, a typical Safavid style, this ancient desert Inn features verandahs, shaded passageways, and nearly 100 rooms– some of which are now used as artisan workshops. After that, at the local Ice-House, we’ll learn about the thick-clay construction and subterranean chamber that allowed residents to have ice and food storage before refrigeration– even during the intense desert heat of summer. Our last stop before leaving Meybod is at the Pigeon Tower. There, we will get more familiar with the ancient system of Agriculture to fertilize.
Continue to Yazd.
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 10: YAZD
Yazd is one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in Iran which is registered in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its silhouette is punctuated by minarets and ingeniously designed wind towers that capture desert breezes to cool homes during the hot summer months. Yazd is also the center of Iran’s Zoroastrian Community, which is where we’ll begin the day’s sightseeing.
At the Tower of Silence, we’ll learn about one of the traditions of this ancient pre-Islamic religion. Until the mid-1900s, the dead were transported to this tower where they were left to decompose and be devoured by birds. Zoroastrian tradition considers a deceased body to be “unclean” and this process of excarnation prevents contact with either fire or earth– both of which are considered to be sacred.
At the still-active Zoroastrian Fire Temple, we will see a flame that is said to have been burning for the past 1,500 years. It’s an important pilgrimage site for the faithful and here our expert guide will offer additional insight into one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions.
After The temple, we will have a short distance to the Mehrban Polad Museum of Documents and Manuscript. It is regarded as one of the best museums in the city, showcasing historical and artistic treasures, including the oldest copies of the Avesta and beautiful manuscripts. It also features a place for enjoying Zoroastrian refreshments, and is located in the Zoroastrian neighborhood, which, while not in the city center, is easily accessible.
In Amir Chakhmaq Square, we’ll see a very impressive Hussainiya– a congregation hall for Shia commemoration ceremonies. With three tiers of recessed alcoves, all perfectly proportioned, its facade is one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.
The Sahib al-Zaman Zurkhaneh, located in the historic Amir Chakhmaq complex, is the most renowned zurkhaneh in Yazd and is celebrated as one of the city’s oldest and largest athletic venues. We will have the opportunity to experience one of the world’s oldest sports in this historic location in Yazd.
The next place to visit is the Jame Mosque of Yazd (Friday Mosque), built in 1324, where we can gaze upon the tallest minarets in the country. Just beside the mosque, we have time to stroll in the Fahadan District. There, we can get familiar with the desert houses’ architecture.
Now will visit a famous Qanat in Fahadan. The Qanat system has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its remarkable engineering and historical significance in water management.
Among the many other historic sites to be seen in Yazd are beautiful old homes and the Dowlat Abad Garden (UNESCO World Heritage Site) Standing by the garden’s long reflecting pool, we’ll be shaded by ancient cypress trees. Ahead of us is an 18th-century hexagonal pavilion with a beautiful stained-glass window and a graceful wind tower– the tallest in Iran. All around are flowering fruit trees and other ornamental plants and trees.
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 11: YAZD – PASARGADAE – SHIRAZ (440 KM)
Today, we have a full day of driving to reach our destination of Shiraz. Over our drive, we will pass through Abarkooh where we will visit the world’s second oldest tree, Abarkooh Cypress, its age is estimated over 4500 years. We can see the tree on our way.
Next, we will visit the Pasargadae (UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Tomb of Cyrus the Great, and the former capital of the Achaemenid Empire. We will spend some time exploring the site and though not as striking as Persepolis, there is a great viewpoint where we can look over the site and the surrounding area.
Then, we will probably visit the Nomads near Shiraz (Depends on the weather and time of Kouch). We will be deeply in touch with some nomadic families from one of the handful of remaining nomad tribes in the world (it depends on the weather conditions and nomadic movements).
Continue to Shiraz and check into the hotel.
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 12: SHIRAZ – PERSEPOLIS – SHIRAZ (120 KM)
After breakfast, proceed to Marvdasht. We will drive to the Legendary City of Persepolis (UNESCO World Heritage Site), the former capital of Darius the Great which was founded in 512 BC. There was no more impressive construction in the ancient world than Persepolis, except perhaps the Karnak in Egypt.
From here, we will drive a couple of miles away to the Necropolis (Naqsh-e-Rustam), where Darius and his successors are buried. Carved into the side of a cliff, the site is extraordinary in its magnitude and sheer ambition and does not disappoint even after the impressive Persepolis.
Back to Shiraz. We will pass by the Quran Gate, one of the most famous gates in Shiraz where we will have a short stop to take a photo.
An afternoon visit to the Tomb of Saadi will be our today’s last visit. Saadi was one of the major Persian poets and literary figures, born in Shiraz in the 12th century. He is widely recognized as one of the greatest poets of the classical Iranian literary tradition around the world.
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 13: SHIRAZ
After a delicious buffet breakfast, our sightseeing tour begins. The first place we visit is the Nasir Al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque). Visiting this mosque is one of the most beautiful experiences of our trip to Iran. The Pink Mosque is famous for its colorful glasses that shine beautifully in the sunshine.
Across the street is the Qavam House (Narenjestan Garden), which has been one of the most amazing houses of Shiraz since the 19th century, the house is famous for its wonderful architecture (stucco work, tile work, mirror work, and wall paintings). This house belonged to the former governor of Shiraz during the Zand and Qajar dynasties.
Then we will visit the Karim Khan Citadel from outside which was built during the Zand dynasty. We’ll have time to explore and shop in the bustling Vakil Bazaar, home to hundreds of stores, beautiful courtyards, and even an ancient caravanserai (Saray-e Moshir).
HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE
In the afternoon, we prepare dinner with a Shirazi family. Very welcoming and friendly, this experience also allows you to discover the essence of Iran through a Persian family, recipes, stories, and the pleasure of sharing a meal.
ACCOMMODATION
DAY 14: SHIRAZ
Shiraz is famous for its gardens and we’ll visit the Eram Garden (UNESCO World Heritage Site) with its aromatic myrtles, beautiful flowers, fruit trees, and towering cypresses (one of which is said to be 3,000 years old).
Then, we will continue to the Shrine of Ali Ibn-e Hamzeh. Built in the 19th century over the tomb of Emir Ali, a nephew of Shah Cheragh who also died in Shiraz while en route to Khorasan to help Imam Reza, this shrine is the latest of several earlier incarnations destroyed by earthquakes.
We will end our day on a tranquil note in the lovely garden of, the Tomb of Hafez one of our most outstanding poets to feel the taste of Persian Literature. Hafez is one of the greatest poets who has impressed everyone with his mastery. His poems give us a special feeling and the peace in his tomb is outstanding.
ACCOMODATION
DAY 15: SHIRAZ (DEPARTURE)
Our representative will transfer you to the Shiraz International Airport (SYZ) according to your flight time.
(We can arrange a domestic ticket and airport transfer in Tehran for those who wish to return to their home country from Tehran International Airport)
Hamed Mehranian and his team made sure our 14 days family tour of Iran exceptional from start to finish. My family (10 people) and I were visiting Iran from Mauritius to celebrate a wedding and to the travel around the country. We travelled to Tehran, Kashan, Yazd, Isfahan and Shiraz ( with detours to Abyanheh, Maybod and Nain). We travelled in a luxurious van throughout.
My recent 15 day visit to Iran exceeded expectations at every level. Iran is a beautiful country with a rich history (Persia) and culture dating as far back as the Archaemenid Empire. Contrary to misperceptions, it is welcoming and safe, and people we meet everywhere are so warm and friendly.
You are in good hands with SURFIRAN from airport arrival to airport departure.
I have really enjoyed exploring and learning about Iran during my 8 day trip. I definitely recommend SurfIran as a tour company and they made a great itinerary for me. My guide, Mr. Hossein Pourmorour has been a great guide throughout my trip and I definitely recommend him as a guide as well. He is very knowledgeable about all the historical sites and knows a lot about Iran.
The two-week tour of the cities of Iran was wonderful!
SURFIRAN has organized everything very well. I would especially like to mention the excellent work of our guide, Mr. Mehdi. He did everything necessary for our comfort during the trip. He told us a lot of interesting information about the history and modern life of Iran. Thank you so much for the excellent work!
Iran may perhaps not be the most obvious destination for most people, but for anyone who enjoys astonishing ancient sites and impressive monuments of Islamic art, amazing landscapes, bustling cities with colorful bazaars, great food, genuine hospitality, and possibly the most friendly people on earth, it should be top of their list!
Was a fantastic experience. Easy to work with Surfiran. My guide/driver was great to travel with. Very personable and knowledgeable. Would gladly deal with them again. Thanks for a great visit.
Such a fantastic tour! I was unsure about traveling to Iran as a solo female, but I felt confident going with SurfIran. Hamed in SurfIran was extremely helpful in assisting me to secure a travel visa, travel insurance, and in answering all of my queries to prepare me. He was even helpful in tailoring the tour to my needs (as I could not arrive on the first day in Tehran) and I was still welcomed at the airport by a different guide to take me to the hotel and get set up in Shiraz.
I cannot express my gratitude to Paria, my guide Ali and SURFIRAN for my tour around Shiraz and Isfahan. As a European and solo travelled , safety was a worry but it was great. Iranian people are so welcoming. I would love to join them again soon. Thanks a lot.
I was in Iran with my old travel mates Bea, Gloria and Paola on september.
We all agree to consider that journey one of the most exciting and interesting we have ever done.
We found out a safe, kind e welcomig Country and We are so grateful to SURFIRAN which has made that all possible, with great expertise and professionalism.
Iran is a must destination the best is its people. If you want to travel to Iran I definitely recommend Surfiran ! Our guide was impeccable. I specifically suggest seeing more than the classic Iran route to grasp deeper insides of Iran !! I chose Tabriz and it was great this region has a lot to offer !
Going to Iran was a lifelong dream for me. I had wanted to go since I was a teenager and coming up to fifty years of age, I decided to go for it. I had looked into a few other travel agencies but for one reason or another they weren’t offering what I wanted.
Majid was an excellent guide. Enjoyed Iran thoroughly. He seemed to judge what I wanted. Went and hiked in the mountains. All the historical places. Loved his enthusiasm and openness. Really enjoyed my trip to Iran. Would love to go go again in a heart beat.
Anil Kashyap from Los Angeles USA
Dates & Prices
We regularly run this small-group tour. All departures are guaranteed to run if a minimum of 2 travelers is reached. If we do not reach this minimum number, we will offer you to either pay a supplement to do the tour exactly as planned, to change your date, to take another tour, or we will provide you with a full refund. Departure dates and prices are listed on our website and in our brochure. Please check the website for the most up-to-date prices and special offers.
Passports and Visas
Passports should be valid for at least six months after your departure from the country. Please do not bring an almost full or almost expired passport. Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller. For more information about how to get an Iranian visa please visit this page.
Accommodation
We use good quality hotels rated at the Iranian Local House and 3-star level on this tour. Local star ratings may vary slightly from international standards. Accommodation is based on double or twin en-suite rooms with air conditioning.
All couples will have a private double room.
Single travelers must pay extra to have their private room.
Transport
We use a private AC van, middle bus or bus throughout this tour, subject to the final size of the group.
Transfers
The tour includes a 24-hour airport meet & assist service in Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport, your arrival and departure airport-hotel transfers and all other transfers.
Booking & Payment
If you would like to book a place on this tour, please complete the online reservation form on our website. We will then contact you with more details about how to complete your booking. Payments may be made by making a bank transfer. Full details will be provided in your booking confirmation email. Please contact us if you would like any more information or have any questions before making a booking.
SAYE SHAHMS
saye@surfiran.com
+98 912 880 3921
HAMED MEHRANIAN
hamed@surfiran.com
+98 991 173 6577
We can customize your travel to suit your wishes and time schedule for free.
Talk with a SURFIRAN travel specialist who can help organize your trip.
WhatsApp: +98 912 880 3921