Jan’s Iran Travel Story: A Personal Account from 2015

Editor’s note: This is a traveler’s personal account from 2015. For current entry requirements, safety information and practical planning, see our Iran Travel Guide.

It has been more than a week since I returned from Iran, and I have to be honest: it was one of the best trips I have taken. I had already visited around 30 countries, but Iran stood out because of the combination of its landscapes, historical sites and the people I met along the way.

I spent a lot of time with local people and did not have any serious problems during the trip. Even everyday moments, such as crossing busy streets, became part of the experience. Before traveling, much of what I had seen about Iran in international media focused on risk and tension. My own experience on the ground was very different.

I hope to return to Iran. I am grateful for the time I spent there, and I want to share a more nuanced picture of the country with friends back in Europe.

— Jan