Iran Culinary Tour in 14 Days
An unforgettable Iran food tour
€1,750
Taste the popular and delicious Iranian foods in every city!
Overview & Trip Highlights
Embark on an unforgettable Iran food tour and culinary journey, starting in Tehran. Enjoy the comfort of a cozy couch as you traverse picturesque landscapes and indulge in the most popular and beloved dishes from every corner of Iran.
Throughout this trip, we’ll explore captivating cities such as Tehran, Rasht, Masouleh, Talesh, Tabriz, Shiraz, Yazd, Isfahan, and Kashan. Immerse yourself in Persian history with a visit to the awe-inspiring Persepolis.
However, the true highlight of any Iran food tour is the opportunity to meet the locals – widely regarded as the friendliest and most hospitable people in the world. Their warm smiles and genuine hospitality will make your journey truly extraordinary. Join us on this remarkable culinary adventure through Iran and create unforgettable memories. Book your Iran food tour today!
Authentic Experiences
Travel Itinerary
DAY 1: TEHRAN (ARRIVLE)
After arriving at Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) in Tehran, our representative will meet and greet you; then, you will be transferred to the hotel to rest.
ACCOMMODATION
- Howeyzeh 4* hotel or a similar one in Tehran
DAY 2: TEHRAN – ROUDBAR – FOUMAN 5 H (400 KM)
Today we will go to Fouman, on our way we will have stop at Roudbar, which is center of olive in Iran.
This morning, we will head to the north to the Fouman city where we will stay in a Tea farm and will experience and learn about tea harvest, become familiar with different kinds of tea, see beehive and taste special northern cookie called “Koloocheh”.
ACCOMMODATION
- Tea Bagh in Fouman
DAY 3: FOUMAN – MASOULEH – RASHT 2 H 30 MIN (92 KM)
After breakfast, we will spend more time in the farm. You can walk on a special walking trek and see the different parts of the farm.
After that we will drive to Masouleh, thousand-year-old village which set in the foothills of Gilan, takes one back in time to the traditions of rural Iran and the simple agrarian life that used to dominate most of the country. It is also one of the best places to sample Iran’s vegetarian cuisine, most notably the dish Mirza Ghassemi, a regional specialty of smoky auberges’, burnt over hot coals and then gently fried with tender young garlic, plump tomatoes and plenty of local olive oil.
One of the most beautiful popular handicrafts of the province of Gilan, is Masouleh Doll, women only in Masouleh in front of the house door or on a platform near travelers and tourist’s accommodation, knit this souvenir, which is a memento from Masoulehs historic city, is woven with a woolen yarn.
Later in the day, we will drive to Rasht, the capital of Gilan province. We visit Rasht local market, which is one of the most famous local markets of Iran in Gilan, which has maintained its traditional appearance over the years since the Qajar era.
We will visit from Shahrdari Square. This Square is located in the heart of the city and next to the traditional Bazaar of Rasht where you can actually meet the locals and their lifestyle.
Then we will visit the Gilan Rural Heritage Museum, Gilan Rural Heritage Museum is accurate depiction of the lifestyles, cultures and traditions of the rural areas of Gilan Province in North of Iran. In this museum, you can see details about the lifestyle, work, housing, souvenirs, local foods and everything else you need to know about life in the rural areas of northern Iran.
In each corner, you will see local farmers and sellers who are trying to sell their products directly to consumers. Here, you can find almost any organic product you wish for, from fresh vegetables and fruits to olives, fish and different dairy products.
ACCOMMODATION
- Pamchal 3* hotel or a similar one in Rasht
DAY 4: RAHST – TEHRAN 4 H (320 KM)
This morning, we will visit Saravan forest park, which is one of the oldest forest fields of Gilan, which for its various plant species is rare across the country and even across the world. There is a small pond at the entrance of Saravan forest park, which is incredibly beautiful. This pond has a wooden platform and two swan shaped boats for wandering on the water. Moreover, a part of this park is allocated to the Rural Heritage Museum of Gilan which is the first rural museum of the country.
Then keep our way to go to Tehran, if time permit, we will visit nature bridge. Cross Tabiat Bridge, an award-winning foot bridge designed by local architect Leila Araghian. Completed in 2014, the structure spans 270 m (890 ft) and takes pedestrians from one public park to another across the Shahid Modarres Avenue. Take a stroll on the imposing steel-and-concrete structure, equipped with benches for resting, and enjoy the view of the busy highway and the lush green parks it connects.
ACCOMMODATION
- Howeyzeh 4* hotel or similar one in Tehran
Day 5: TEHRAN
Today, we will take you to a lovely park-like setting to visit the Sa’d Abad Palace. This was the coronation and marriage palace of the Pahlavi Dynasty – and the residence from which the last Shah of Iran. Now a museum, its extensive collection includes period furnishings and décor, and even the personal effects of the last Shah. Our guests also enjoy an exclusive tour through an intimate gallery dedicated to the 20th-century art collection of Iran’s last Empress.
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 the sea level, and is one of the main starting routes taken by mountaineers for reaching the central Alborz Range. Small cafés and restaurants all over Darband cook dizi for lunch and serve it warm flatbreads that you shared into small pieces at the table and place in your clay pot to soak up the meaty broth.
ACCOMMODATION
- Howeyzeh 4* hotel or similar one in Tehran
DAY 6: TEHRAN – KASHAN 3 H (250 KM)
Leaving Tehran behind, we’ll travel south to Kashan, a town originally famous for its textiles and ceramic production, but now better known for Fin Garden and its extensive bazaar and hamams.
Fin Garden (A 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, you will visit Boroujerdi Traditional House. Iranian famous architect Ustad Ali Maryam built it about 130 years ago in reign of Qajar dynasty (1857). The owner was Haj Seyed Hasan Natanzi, a well-known merchant who mostly dealt with people of Boroujerd city. That’s why the house is known as Boroujerd’s House.
Afterwards, we will visit the bazaar area, a widespread complex filled with hamams and mosques; one hamam has been converted to a traditional teahouse where we will stop for those who need a break from shopping.
ACCOMMODATION:
- Negin 3* hotel or a similar one in Kashan
DAY 7: KASHAN – NAEIN – MEYBOD – YAZD 5 H (400 KM)
Leaving Kashan, our first stop this morning will be in Na’in, an ancient community with origins dating back to the 8th century. Over there, we will visit the Jame mosque of Naien.
Your overland journey continues to the small town of Meybod, where your first impression might be its striking monochromatic architecture of desert brick. But set along an ancient trade route, Meybod also offers a number of fascinating sites to visit including its Caravanserai. Built in typical Safavid style, this ancient desert inn features verandahs, shaded passageways, and nearly 100 rooms– some of which are now used as artisan workshops. At the local Icehouse, you’ll learn about the thick-clay construction and subterranean chamber that allowed local residents to have ice and food storage before refrigeration– even during the intense desert heat of summer!
Tonight’s dinner in a local restaurant offers a chance to experience daily Iranian life in a city that’s smaller than Tehran or Isfahan. The ambience is a bit more laid back and the residents may seem a bit more reserved. But, you’ll find them warm, friendly and eager to meet tourists.
ACCOMMODATION:
- Ketrova 3* hotel or a similar one in Yazd
Day 8: YAZD
Yazd is one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns of Iran. Its silhouette punctuated by minarets and the 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 you’ll begin the day’s sightseeing.
At the Tower of Silence, you’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, you 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.
In Amir Chakhmaq Square, you’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 next place to visit is the Friday Mosque, built in 1324, where you can gaze upon the tallest minarets in the country.
Among the many other historic sites to be seen in Yazd are beautiful old homes and the Dowlat Abad Garden. Standing by the garden’s long reflecting pool, you’ll be shaded by ancient cypress trees
ACCOMMODATION:
- Ketrova 3* hotel or a similar one in Yazd
DAY 9: YAZD – SHIRAZ 6 H (440 KM)
Today, we have a full day of driving to reach our destination of Shiraz; it is a good idea to stock up on locally bought and easily found dates and pistachio nuts for the journey.
Over our drive, we will pass through Abarkooh where we will visit the traditional Ice-House, an adobe building used to store ice and food prior to the invention of the refrigerator. The town is the home of the world’s second oldest tree called Abarkooh Cypress, its age is estimated over 4000 years. We can see the tree on our way.
Next, you will visit Pasargadae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Tomb of Cyrus the Great and 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.
For lunch, we will visit the Qashqai Nomads, near Shiraz. You will be deeply in touch with some Nomadic families from one of the handful of remaining nomad tribes in the world. Over there, we will have our time to be acquainted with nomadic lifestyle and witness their daily routine of shepherding, collecting woods, baking bread, milking sheep and goats, and preparing fire for making bread.
After arriving Shiraz and check in hotel, you will end your day on a tranquil note in the lovely garden-tomb of Hafez, one of our most outstanding poets to feel the taste of Persian Literature. Hafez is one of the great poets who has impressed everyone with his mastery. His poems give us a special feeling and the peace in his tomb is really outstanding.
ACCOMMODATION
- Arg 3* hotel or a similar one in Shiraz
DAY 10: SHIRAZ
After breakfast, you will visit Nasir-al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque) which is few steps far from Vakil Bazaar. It was built at Mirza Hassan Ali Nasir-al Mulk’s command (one of the lords of the Qajar Dynasty); it took 12 years to complete it in 1888. Its interior reveals a magnificent masterpiece of design with stunning colors. This is a space where light and worship intertwine. The mosque comes to life with the sunrise and the colors dance throughout the day like whirling Dervishes. It reflects on the ground, walls, the arches and the towering spires. It even reflects on the visitors as if a colorful ball is hit by the first sun ray and has exploded into thousands of butterflies all around.
Continue your exploration in Shiraz at the beautiful orange-scented Narenjestan Garden, laid out in the 19th century during the Qajar Dynasty.
Then, you will have a look to Karim Khan Citadel from outside which was built during the Zand Dynasty.
You’ll have time to explore and shop in the bustling Vakil Bazaar, home to hundreds of stores, beautiful courtyards, and even an ancient caravanserai. Beside bazaar, we will also visit the famous Traditional Vakil Bath. A distinguishing fact about Vakil Bath is that its light is provided by the goblets that are designed in the ceiling. There are also some special platforms for changing rooms.
ACCOMODATION
Arg 3* hotel or a similar one in Shiraz
DAY 11: SHIRAZ – ISFAHAN 6 H (500 KM)
After breakfast, we will drive to the Legendary City of Persepolis, 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. Darius built the terrace, Apadana (great audience hall), Tachana (a palace), and the Monumental Staircases; his son, Xerxes, added the Harem and the Hall of 100 Columns. Alexander the Great entered Persepolis in January 330 BC and then committed an uncharacteristic act of wanton destruction that still mystifies historians today, burning the mighty city to the ground. Though a shadow of its former self, the soaring pillars, terraces and sculptures of Persepolis still remain, but probably most impressive are the bas reliefs which line the site, telling the story of ancient governors and kings that came to Persepolis to pay tribute to the Persian Emperors.
From here, we will drive a couple of miles away to the Naqsh-e-Rustam, the Necropolis 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.
Your 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).
ACCOMMODATION:
- Traditional hotel 3* or a similar one in Isfahan
DAY 12: ISFAHAN
Your exploration continues in Imam Square. This 17th-century site is one of the largest public spaces in the world. Here in the square, you’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.
You will also visit Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, also known as the Ladies Mosque, as it was built for the Shah’s harem, renowned for brightly colored domed ceiling, where the light creates the image of a peacock. In the Ali Qapu Palace, you’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.
You’ll end your 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.
Next up is Chehel Sotun Palace. 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, you will discover soaring halls embellished with frescoes, paintings and mosaics; the Hall of Mirrors is especially breathtaking!
In addition, we will taste different Isfahan’s sweets like Masghati, (which is a soft and transparent confection in Iran made with rose water, starch, sugar and water) and Gaz.
ACCOMMODATION
- Traditional hotel 3* or a similar one in Isfahan
DAY 13: ISFAHAN – TEHRAN 5 H (440 KM)
Continue your 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 of the country, and its construction and embellishment over the past twelve centuries illustrate a number of important periods in Islamic architecture.
In the city’s Armenian quarter, you will delve more deeply into the region’s complex history as you will visit several churches including the 17th-century Vank Cathedral with its lavishly decorated interior and unique blend of Islamic and European architectural elements.
For lunch, we will have Aash Reshteh , which is a healthy soup packed with legumes, fresh herbs and noodles and is often served with a generous drizzle of Kashk, an tasty flavored fermented which tastes somewhere in between parmesan and goat’s cheese.
In the afternoon we will drive back to Tehran and take rest at the hotel.
ACCOMMODATION
- Howeyzeh 4* hotel or a similar one in Tehran
DAY 14: TEHRAN (DEPARTURE)
Our representative will transfer you to Imam Khomeini International Airport according to your flight time.
What’s Included
What’s Excluded
Customer Reviews
Do not hesitate. Visit Iran
Going to Iran was for me and my friend a long term project. We booked a luxury train trip in 2019 but unfortunately the tour was canceled because of covid. Surfiran offered us a 9-day tour this year and Saye cooperated with us wonderfully in preparing our trip.
Reliable agency
We organized a 3 weeks tour in Iran through SURFIRAN. SURFIRAN is a very Professional travel agency who understands their customers needs and expectations. Our stay in Iran was just fabulous, the program built by SURFIRAN was great, we have seen many and many very interesting sites and locations.
Thanks a lot
We visited Iran on October 2016 with SURFIRAN travel and tours company. Organization of round trip, hotel accommodation and flights were perfect. Our guide Mostafa was absolutely excellent, helpful, friendly and his information about Iran were very informative. Thanks a lot ! Will come back soon.
All arranged efficiently
Everything was arranged very efficiently. Nothing went wrong. Our guide, Mostafa Farhadi, was remarkable. Not only was he a brilliant driver, but his knowledge of the culture, history and contemporary life of Iran was amazing. He also had superb contacts in all the places we visited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Good to Know
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.
SPEAK TO OUR EXPERTS
SAYE SHAHMS
[email protected]
+98 912 880 3921
PARIA POURMEHDI
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+98 910 928 3853
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