Embark on a journey to explore Sari, the capital city of Mazandaran Province in northern Iran. This city is a treasury of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it one of Iran’s must-visit destinations. From the heavenly climate to vibrant markets, mouth-watering cuisine, and unparalleled attractions, Sari is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
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Sari Climate
The city experiences all four seasons in their full glory, each bringing its own charm and activities.
Spring: A Symphony of Blooms
Spring in Sari is a period of rebirth. From late March to early June, the city springs to life with blossoming flowers, lush green fields, and a sense of freshness in the air. It’s an ideal time for nature walks and outdoor activities.
Summer: The Sun & The Sea
Running from June to September, summer is warm but bearable, thanks to the nearby Caspian Sea. The beaches become lively, and water sports are a popular pastime. While daytime can be humid, the evenings offer a cool respite.
Autumn: The Palette of Colors
October and November bring a magical transformation. The foliage turns into shades of orange, yellow, and red, painting a picturesque landscape that’s a photographer’s dream. The weather is mild, making it excellent for sightseeing.
Winter: The Quiet Solitude
Winter, which lasts from December to March, is relatively mild due to the city’s coastal location but is the wettest season of the year. While the sea may be too chilly for a swim, the season is perfect for enjoying the natural hot springs in the region.
Best Time To Visit Sari
Spring and autumn are arguably the best times to explore Sari. Between April and June, the city is in full bloom, with lush landscapes and pleasant weather. October and November offer mild temperatures and colorful fall foliage. Consider planning your trip during these months to make the most out of your Sari experience.
Tourist Attractions Of Sari
Discover the Gems of Sari
Badab-e Surt
One of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders near Sari is Badab-e Surt, a series of terraced travertine springs perched on the edge of a mountain. The spectacle it offers is nothing short of otherworldly—imagine vibrant pools of water in hues of orange, red, and yellow, set against the backdrop of lush green mountains and azure skies.
A Geological Masterpiece
Badab-e Surt is an extraordinary result of thousands of years of limestone deposition. Mineral-laden waters from two different mineral springs have over time, created a series of petrified pools and cascades that terrify in their colors. The minerals in the water are said to have therapeutic properties, attracting not just tourists but also those seeking natural remedies for ailments.
A Photographer’s Paradise
The vivid palette of colors in the natural pools creates a surreal ambiance that beckons photography enthusiasts. Whether you’re an amateur with a smartphone or a professional with high-end equipment, the site offers countless compositions. The colors can change depending on the angle of the sun, giving you a variety of shades to capture in your lens.
Visit at the Right Time
The best time to visit Badab-e Surt is during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear. During these seasons, the interplay between the sunlight and the mineral pools is at its most stunning, making your visit an unforgettable experience.
How to Get There
Located approximately 95 km south of Sari, getting to Badab-e Surt usually involves a drive of about 1.5 to 2 hours. You can opt for a private vehicle or join a group tour.
Visiting Badab-e Surt offers more than just a feast for the eyes; it’s a chance to marvel at the intricate and artistic designs that nature is capable of crafting over millennia. For those planning a trip to Sari, this geological wonder is not to be missed.
Google Maps link to Badab-e Surt: Navigate to Badab-e Surt
Clock Tower (Saat Square)
Situated in the bustling center of Sari, the Clock Tower, locally known as Saat Square, is much more than a mere time-keeping structure. It’s a historical landmark, a cultural emblem, and a social gathering point all rolled into one. Erected during the Pahlavi era, this towering edifice has stood the test of time, silently witnessing the city’s evolving history and ever-changing social fabric.
The tower itself is an elegant structure with a blend of traditional Persian and modern architectural elements. Its sleek design and towering height make it a focal point that’s visible from various parts of the city. The four-faced clock atop the tower allows people in every direction to synchronize their lives with the ticking hands of time.
Google Maps link to Clock Tower (Saat Square): Find Saat Square in Sari
Farahabad Beach
Farahabad Beach is Sari’s hidden gem, a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The beach is famed for its pristine sand and crystal-clear water, offering an inviting space for relaxation and water activities. Located between lush forests and the azure expanse of the Caspian Sea, it’s a haven for nature lovers. Whether you’re interested in a family picnic, swimming, or simply watching the sunset, Farahabad Beach offers an idyllic setting for all.
Google Maps link to Farahabad Beach: Navigate to Farahabad Beach
When it comes to exploring the picturesque landscapes and rich culture of northern Iran, Sari stands out as a must-visit destination. Getting there is relatively straightforward, offering a range of options to suit various travel preferences and budgets. Below is a detailed guide on the different ways to reach Sari, making your journey as smooth as possible.
How To Go To Sari City by Plane?
Sari is served by Dasht-e Naz Airport, located about 15 km from the city center. The airport operates domestic flights from various cities in Iran, such as Tehran, Mashhad, and Isfahan. After landing, you can easily get a taxi or use other local transport options to reach your hotel.
Book your flights through OrientTrips
How To Go To Sari City by Train?
The city is well-connected by Iran’s rail network. Sari Railway Station serves trains coming from major cities like Tehran and Mashhad. Trains offer comfort and scenic views of the Iranian countryside, making it a popular choice for those who aren’t in a rush.
Reserve your train tickets through OrientTrips
How To Go To Sari City by Bus?
Sari’s bus terminal, also known as Sari Passenger Terminal, offers another economical way to reach the city. Long-distance buses from Tehran and other major cities arrive here regularly. The services are frequent and offer a range of quality, from standard to VIP buses, for your journey.
For more on bus travel, check out OrientTrips
How To Go To Sari City by Private Vehicle?
If you prefer the freedom of driving, you can rent a car or take your own vehicle to Sari. The journey from Tehran takes approximately 4-5 hours via the Tehran-North (Chalous) Road or the Haraz Road. These routes are scenic, giving you a glimpse of Iran’s diverse landscapes.
Book a private vehicle through OrientTrips
Public Transport in Sari
Once you’re in Sari, getting around is quite simple. The city has a decent public transport system, including buses and taxis. You can also rent a car for more flexibility during your stay.
Navigate Sari with OrientTrips’ experiences
No matter how you choose to get there, Sari promises an array of experiences that’ll make the journey worthwhile. For personalized itineraries, consult SURFIRAN’s tailor-made tours to get the most out of your trip to this enchanting city.
Best Hotels in Sari
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Iran Hotels Online
Despite Sari being a tourist city, the number of hotels is not extensive. This might be due to a greater preference among people in Iran for local accommodations. Below, you can find and book a list of hotels in Sari.
Four Star Hotels in Sari
Sari Badeleh Hotel
★★★★
One of the good hotels in Sari is the Badeleh Hotel. Located in a plain called Lalim, it offers a beautiful view of nature and services in line with hotel standards. During your stay, you can enjoy the parking lot with a capacity for 80 vehicles and free internet in the lobby, as well as high-quality and reasonably priced meals in the hotel restaurant.
The rooms can accommodate two to four guests, and the hotel is just an 11-minute drive from tourist attractions like Zarem Forest Park and Ab Bandan Lake. Hotel amenities include a lobby, billiard hall, jacuzzi, elevator, luggage room, and taxi services.
Salar Dareh Forest Hotel, Sari
★★★★
Another one of the best four-star hotels in Sari is the Salar Dareh Forest Hotel, situated among the forest near the Salar Dareh river, across two floors with 56 rooms. This beautiful hotel offers rooms for one to five people and also has a seven-person duplex villa. Guests can enjoy free parking, internet, and the hotel’s restaurant during their stay.
General amenities of this hotel include a library, tennis court, children’s park, coffee shop, restaurant, taxi service, traditional tea house, and billiard room.
Navid Hotel, Sari
★★★★
Navid Hotel is considered one of the best hotels in Sari. Established on six floors in 2008 and renovated in 2014, one reason it stands out is its easy access to attractions like the Kolbadi historical house, Vaziri bath, Sultan Zain-al-Abidin tower, and the Farah Abad historical complex.
The hotel offers suitable amenities for travelers, including a restaurant with a 200-person capacity, parking, free internet, elevator, coffee shop, prayer room, and taxi service.
Three-Star Hotels in Sari
Esram Hotel, Sari
★★★
This three-star hotel, built in 1997 across eight floors amidst nature, boasts proximity to the Tajan river, Kolbadi house, Vaziri bath, the Jame Mosque, and Zarem Forest Park. Esram Hotel offers rooms for two to five guests, providing good amenities. General facilities include a restaurant, coffee shop, elevator, parking, traditional tea house, rooftop restaurant, and free internet.
Narenj Hotel, Sari
★★★
The three-star Narenj Hotel, established in 1999 near Farah Abad beach across three floors, strives to offer suitable amenities for its guests. Advantages of this hotel include easy access to the Turkmen market, bus terminal, railway, Soleyman Tangeh recreational complex, and Sari International Airport.
Guests can use the parking and restaurant facilities during their stay, with rooms available for one, two, or three guests.
Asman Shahr Hotel, Sari
★★★
Opened in 2020, this three-star hotel is located on a 3,000 square meter property outside the city of Sari, offering easy access to Zarem Forest Park, Ab Bandan Lake, and Imamzadeh Abbas.
Asman Shahr Hotel provides rooms for one to four guests and six-person suites, allowing guests to enjoy parking, the restaurant, and free internet during their stay.
Famous Foods and Restaurants in Sari
The Culinary Journey
Shishlik
A popular skewered and grilled meat dish, best enjoyed in the local restaurants.
Mirza Ghassemi
An exquisite dish made from smoked aubergines, tomatoes, and eggs.
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