{"id":88605,"date":"2026-09-24T13:03:51","date_gmt":"2026-09-24T13:03:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/?p=88605"},"modified":"2026-11-01T10:15:40","modified_gmt":"2026-11-01T10:15:40","slug":"iran-travel-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/iran-travel-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Iran Travel Update 2026: Flights, Borders, Visas and Local Travel"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Iran travel is not normal right now.<\/strong> Inside the country, trains, intercity buses and private road transfers continue to operate. This page explains what has changed and how to plan a trip with care. We update it as the situation evolves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"color:#5b6272;font-size:13px\">Last updated: October 29, 2026, 10:45 AM Iran time (UTC+03:30)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"key-facts\" class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-background\" style=\"border-color:#f1d3cf;border-width:1px;border-radius:8px;background-color:#fff8f6;padding-top:20px;padding-right:20px;padding-bottom:4px;padding-left:20px\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What to Know About Iran Travel Right Now<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>International flights remain available on selected routes.<\/strong> Iranian airlines are currently operating to China, Russia, Turkey, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Armenia, Belarus, Tajikistan and Malaysia. Imam Khomeini Airport City also lists Vietnam among its operating destinations. Iraqi Airways has resumed flights between Najaf and airports in Iran, according to IRNA citing Iraq\u2019s official news agency. Iran\u2019s Civil Aviation Organization announced on October 3 that Iranian and Iraqi airline services between the two countries resumed from October 4. Iranian-airline services to the UAE remain cancelled, while Iranian-airline services to Oman, Georgia and Azerbaijan remain suspended or restricted. Schedules can change at short notice.<\/li>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Land borders with Turkey and Armenia are open<\/strong>, with heavy congestion reported.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tourist visas are still issued.<\/strong> Get your visa before you travel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Inside Iran, trains and private transfers<\/strong> are the most dependable ways to travel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Several governments advise against all travel to Iran.<\/strong> Check your government\u2019s advisory and your travel insurance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"border-top-color:#e5e7eb;border-top-style:solid;border-top-width:1px;border-bottom-color:#e5e7eb;border-bottom-style:solid;border-bottom-width:1px;margin-top:28px;margin-bottom:32px;padding-top:16px;padding-bottom:16px;line-height:1.9\"><strong>On this page:<\/strong> <a href=\"#flights\">Flights<\/a> \u00b7 <a href=\"#borders\">Land borders<\/a> \u00b7 <a href=\"#visa\">Visas<\/a> \u00b7 <a href=\"#getting-around\">Getting around<\/a> \u00b7 <a href=\"#route\">Best route<\/a> \u00b7 <a href=\"#before-you-book\">Before you book<\/a> \u00b7 <a href=\"#faq\">FAQ<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"flights\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Flights to and from Iran<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Current status:<\/strong> International passenger flights continue on selected routes. Iranian airlines are currently operating to China, Russia, Turkey, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Armenia, Belarus, Tajikistan and Malaysia. Imam Khomeini Airport City also lists Vietnam among its operating destinations. Iraqi Airways has resumed flights between Najaf and airports in Iran, according to IRNA citing Iraq\u2019s official news agency. Iran\u2019s Civil Aviation Organization announced on October 3 that Iranian and Iraqi airline services between the two countries resumed from October 4. Iranian-airline services to the UAE remain cancelled, while Iranian-airline services to Oman, Georgia and Azerbaijan remain suspended or restricted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Last checked:<\/strong>November 1, 2026, 1:45 PM Iran time (UTC+03:30)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>October 18, 2026 \u2014 SalamAir (Omani airline):<\/strong> SalamAir resumed its Muscat\u2013Tehran\u2013Muscat service on October 18. ILNA reported the arrival of the first resumed service at Imam Khomeini International Airport and a return-flight schedule on Sundays and Fridays. This does not confirm a restart of Iranian-airline services to Oman or SalamAir services from other Iranian airports. Confirm your exact flight, booking and entry\/residency eligibility directly with SalamAir before travelling. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilna.ir\/%D8%A8%D8%AE%D8%B4-%D8%A7%D9%82%D8%AA%D8%B5%D8%A7%D8%AF%DB%8C-4\/1854142-%D9%BE%D8%B1%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%B2-%D9%87%D8%A7%DB%8C-%D8%B9%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%86-%D8%A8%D9%87-%D8%A7%DB%8C%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%86-%D8%A7%D8%B2%D8%B3%D8%B1%DA%AF%D8%B1%D9%81%D8%AA%D9%87-%D8%B4%D8%AF\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: ILNA, October 18, 2026<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Iranian Airlines<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><thead><tr><th>Route<\/th><th>Status<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Najaf, Iraq (Iranian airlines)<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#b42318\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Operating from Oct 4; confirm individual flight<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>China<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#1a7f37\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Operating<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Russia<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#1a7f37\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Operating<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Pakistan<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#1a7f37\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Operating<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Armenia<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#1a7f37\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Operating<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Afghanistan<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#1a7f37\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Operating<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Belarus<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#1a7f37\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Operating<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tajikistan<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#1a7f37\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Operating<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Malaysia<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#1a7f37\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Operating<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Vietnam (Imam Khomeini Airport City)<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#1a7f37\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Operating<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Turkey<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#1a7f37\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Operating, except Mahan Air restriction<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>United Arab Emirates (Iranian airlines)<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#b42318\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Cancelled<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Baghdad, Iraq<\/td><td><strong>Operating from Oct 4; confirm individual flight<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Muscat, Oman (Iranian airlines)<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#b42318\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Suspended<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Azerbaijan<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#b42318\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Suspended<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Georgia<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#b42318\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Suspended<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Turkey (Mahan Air only)<\/td><td><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);color:#b42318\" class=\"has-inline-color\"><strong>Suspended<\/strong><\/mark><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Latest Confirmed Updates<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 29, 2026:<\/strong> South Khorasan Airports director Seyed Ali-Akbar Seyedi told IRNA that 18 flight movements are scheduled for October 31\u2013November 6: 14 on Tehran\u2013Birjand services (published flights October 31\u2013November 4, operated by Pars Air, Atlas Air and Asa Jet) and four on Tehran\u2013Tabas services (Pars Air on November 1 and Mahan Air on November 4). For Tehran\u2013Tabas, the announced departure times are 08:45 on November 1 and 06:30 on November 4, with returns from Tabas at 10:45 and 08:50 respectively, Iran time (UTC+03:30). These are scheduled services, not confirmation that an individual flight will operate. Verify directly with the airline. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irna.ir\/news\/86306531\/%D8%A8%D8%B1%D9%82%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%B1%DB%8C-%DB%B1%DB%B8-%D8%B3%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%AA%DB%8C-%D9%BE%D8%B1%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%B2-%D8%AF%D8%B1-%D9%81%D8%B1%D9%88%D8%AF%DA%AF%D8%A7%D9%87-%D9%87%D8%A7%DB%8C-%D8%AE%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%B3%D8%A7%D9%86-%D8%AC%D9%86%D9%88%D8%A8%DB%8C-%D8%AF%D8%B1-%D9%87%D9%81%D8%AA%D9%87-%D8%A2%DB%8C%D9%86%D8%AF%D9%87\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: IRNA, quoting South Khorasan Airports director, October 29, 2026<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 25, 2026:<\/strong> Fars Province Airports director Fakhreddin Keshavarz told IRNA that Pouya Air has scheduled Mashhad\u2013Shiraz\u2013Mashhad services on Sundays and Wednesdays (arriving in Shiraz at 19:20 and departing at 20:20) and Ahvaz\u2013Shiraz\u2013Ahvaz services on Mondays and Thursdays (arriving at 18:30 and departing at 19:30), Iran time (UTC+03:30). The announcement did not give a start date or flight numbers. Confirm individual flights directly with Pouya Air. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irna.ir\/news\/86302447\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: IRNA, quoting Fars Province Airports director, October 25, 2026<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 25, 2026:<\/strong> Iran Air completed its first resumed Tehran\u2013Kabul\u2013Tehran service on October 23, and Mashhad\u2013Kabul flights began on October 24, according to Iran\u2019s national broadcaster. The Ministry of Roads and Urban Development previously listed Tehran\u2013Kabul flight IR818 departing at 04:45 on October 23 and Mashhad\u2013Kabul flight IR828 departing at 04:50 on October 24, with return flight IR829 scheduled to arrive in Mashhad at 09:50 (Iran time, UTC+03:30). These reports do not confirm future departures. Check your individual flight directly with Iran Air. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irib-news.ir\/fa\/news\/5948266\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: IRIB News, October 25, 2026<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/news.mrud.ir\/news\/235728\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: Ministry of Roads and Urban Development, citing Iran Air<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 25, 2026:<\/strong> Ilam Airport director Mohammad-Taghi Saljoughi told IRNA that the airport now schedules 30 weekly flight movements on its Tehran and Mashhad routes, operated by Aseman, Karun, Mahan and Qeshm Air. The October 25 report does not specify flight numbers or departure times. Passengers should confirm their individual flight directly with the airline. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irna.ir\/news\/86302284\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: IRNA, quoting Ilam Airport director, October 25, 2026<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 24, 2026:<\/strong> Iran&#8217;s Ministry of Roads and Urban Development reports that Mahan Air&#8217;s Tehran\u2013Khorramabad service resumed on October 24. The published Saturday and Tuesday timetable lists departures at 13:00 from Tehran and 15:05 from Khorramabad (Iran time, UTC+03:30). Khorramabad Airport director Amirabbas Nazarizadeh told IRNA on October 24 that the first Tehran\u2013Khorramabad flight had operated. This confirms that reported flight, not future departures. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irna.ir\/news\/86301818\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: IRNA, quoting the airport director, October 24<\/a>. Passengers should confirm their flight directly with Mahan Air before traveling to the airport. <a href=\"https:\/\/news.mrud.ir\/news\/235785\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: Ministry of Roads and Urban Development, October 24<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 24, 2026:<\/strong> Caspian Airlines announced the resumption of services to Turkey from Tehran, Tabriz and Urmia, with Istanbul, Denizli, Ankara, Gazipa\u015fa, Van and Izmir named as destinations. The announcement did not specify which origin serves each destination or provide flight times. Passengers should confirm their specific route and flight directly with Caspian Airlines. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irna.ir\/news\/86301709\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: IRNA, citing Caspian Airlines, October 24, 2026<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 21, 2026:<\/strong> Yazd Airports director Morteza Hamidpour reported scheduled passenger services by two airlines across these routes: Tehran\u2013Yazd (Mondays, Tuesdays, Saturdays and Wednesdays), Yazd\u2013Mashhad (Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays), Yazd\u2013Ahvaz (Wednesdays), and Yazd\u2013Bandar Abbas (Wednesdays). The report did not identify the airlines or give departure times. Confirm your specific flight directly with the airline. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irna.ir\/news\/86299674\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: IRNA, quoting Yazd Airports director, October 21<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 18, 2026:<\/strong> Bojnord Airport director confirmed that Mahan Air increased its Tehran\u2013Bojnord service from two to four scheduled flight legs per week. Departures from Tehran are scheduled for Sundays at 16:00 and Wednesdays at 13:45; returns from Bojnord are scheduled for Mondays at 06:20 and Wednesdays at 16:05 (Iran local time). Confirm individual flights with Mahan Air. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tasnimnews.ir\/fa\/news\/1405\/07\/26\/3725697\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: Tasnim, quoting Bojnord Airport director<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 14, 2026:<\/strong> Iran Air announced a weekly Wednesday Zahedan\u2013Quetta\u2013Zahedan flight schedule. The first flight IR826 was scheduled to depart Zahedan at 10:10 on October 14, with return flight IR827 departing Quetta at 14:25 local time. Actual flight completion is not independently confirmed. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mehrnews.com\/news\/6977367\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: Mehr, quoting Iran Air<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 8, 2026:<\/strong> Iraqi Airways resumed its Najaf\u2013Tehran\u2013Najaf service. Imam Khomeini International Airport confirmed that its flight from Najaf arrived at 07:30 and departed for Najaf at 08:30 local time on October 8. The airport expects one daily Iraqi Airways service on this route. Confirm individual flights directly with the airline. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irna.ir\/news\/86286836\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: IRNA, quoting Imam Khomeini Airport City<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 7, 2026:<\/strong> Iran Air resumed Karachi services from Tehran and Mashhad. Tehran\u2013Karachi\u2013Tehran is scheduled once weekly on Mondays, and Mashhad\u2013Karachi\u2013Mashhad once weekly on Tuesdays. The resumed Mashhad service operated on October 6, with its return arriving on October 7. Confirm individual flights with Iran Air before traveling to the airport. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irna.ir\/news\/86286128\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: IRNA, quoting Iran Air<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 5, 2026:<\/strong> Iraq\u2019s Ministry of Transport announced that Iraqi Airways will resume regular direct flights from Najaf to Tehran, Mashhad and Isfahan from <strong>October 8, 2026<\/strong>. The announced schedule is daily. Passengers should confirm their individual flight directly with Iraqi Airways before traveling to the airport. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irna.ir\/news\/86284031\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: IRNA, reporting the Iraqi Ministry of Transport announcement<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 5, 2026:<\/strong> Iran Air operated its first Tehran\u2013Najaf service after the recent route restriction on October 5. Flight 5329 departed Imam Khomeini International Airport at 08:15 and landed in Najaf at 09:25 local time. Return flight 5328 departed Najaf at 10:45 local time. Passengers should confirm the individual flight directly with Iran Air before traveling to the airport. <a href=\"https:\/\/news.mrud.ir\/news\/233983\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: Ministry of Roads and Urban Development, quoting Iran Air<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 4, 2026:<\/strong> Shiraz International Airport reported that almost all of its domestic destinations were operating; Istanbul was its only operating international destination at the time of the announcement. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.isna.ir\/amp\/1405071207699\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: ISNA, quoting the director-general of Fars airports<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>October 4, 2026:<\/strong> Mashhad\u2013Najaf flights resumed after a 10-day interruption, according to the public relations director of Razavi Khorasan airports. Passengers should confirm their individual flight before traveling to the airport. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irna.ir\/news\/86283001\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: IRNA, quoting Razavi Khorasan airports<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\n\n<li><strong>October 3, 2026:<\/strong> Iran\u2019s Civil Aviation Organization announced that Iranian and Iraqi airline services between the two countries would resume from <strong>October 4, 2026<\/strong>. Passengers should confirm their individual flight before traveling to the airport. <a href=\"https:\/\/news.mrud.ir\/news\/233884\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: Ministry of Roads and Urban Development, quoting the Civil Aviation Organization<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n\n<li><strong>September 26, 2026:<\/strong> ISNA reported that Iranian airlines were operating to <strong>China, Russia, Turkey, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Armenia, Belarus, Tajikistan and Malaysia<\/strong>. Imam Khomeini Airport City separately listed <strong>Vietnam<\/strong> among operating destinations. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.isna.ir\/news\/1405070402320\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Source: ISNA, citing current aviation and airport information<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Flight schedules and airport operations can change at short notice. Before traveling to the airport, passengers should confirm their individual flight directly with their airline and check the latest information from the relevant airport and aviation authorities.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your flight has been cancelled, ask the airline or the agency that sold your ticket for a refund or a new booking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"borders\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Entering or Leaving Iran by Land<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With far fewer flights, many travelers now cross land borders to reach airports in Turkey and Armenia. Expect long queues, longer journeys and higher prices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Turkey:<\/strong> Bazargan \u2013 G\u00fcrbulak and Razi \u2013 Kap\u0131k\u00f6y. Open, with heavy congestion reported.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Armenia:<\/strong> Nordooz \u2013 Agarak, then by road to Yerevan. Open, with congestion reported.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Iraq:<\/strong> Shalamcheh and Chazabeh. Reopened on September 13 after a temporary closure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Azerbaijan:<\/strong> Overland travel is restricted by Azerbaijan.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Before You Travel Overland<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Arrange your Iran visa in advance. Visa on arrival is not a reliable option at land borders.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Book cross-border transport through official operators. Black-market prices for Iran\u2013Turkey bus tickets have reportedly reached four times the normal fare.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leave a generous buffer between your border crossing and any onward flight.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carry printed copies of your passport, visa and bookings. Internet access inside Iran is unreliable.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"visa\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Iran Visa Status<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Iran continues to issue tourist visas. With few foreign airlines flying and more travelers entering overland, <strong>secure your visa or visa authorization code before you travel<\/strong> instead of relying on visa on arrival.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Airlines may refuse boarding to passengers without a pre-approved visa, even where visa on arrival exists.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>US, UK and Canadian passport holders must apply through an Iranian embassy or consulate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Citizens of India (since November 2025) and Lebanon (since May 2026) now need a visa.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"getting-around\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Getting Around Iran<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Domestic Flights<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Domestic flights continue to operate on selected routes. Passengers should confirm their individual flight directly with the airline before traveling to the airport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trains<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trains are one of the most useful ways to move around Iran in 2026. They are slower than flights but more predictable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><thead><tr><th>Route<\/th><th>Best for<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Tehran to Mashhad<\/td><td>Pilgrimage, culture and long-distance comfort<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tehran to <a href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/destinations\/yazd\/\">Yazd<\/a><\/td><td>Desert cities and classic architecture<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tehran to Shiraz<\/td><td>Culture, gardens and access to Persepolis<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tehran to Kerman<\/td><td>Desert landscapes and eastern Iran<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/bandar-abbas-train-station\/\">Tehran to Bandar Abbas<\/a><\/td><td>Southern Iran and island connections<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Intercity Buses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Iran has a wide intercity bus network, and VIP buses are common on popular routes. Comfort and capacity depend on the operator, vehicle, route and season, so buses are not always the best choice for first-time visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Private Transfers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Private road travel with licensed drivers gives the most control over timing and routes. It also allows stops at places such as Abyaneh, Naein, <a href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/narin-castle-in-meybod\/\">Meybod<\/a>, Pasargadae and Persepolis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"route\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Iran Travel Route for a First Trip<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For most first-time visitors, the classic cultural route works best because it combines culture, comfort, road access and flexible planning:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tehran:<\/strong> museums, palaces, bazaars and modern city life.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/destinations\/kashan\/\">Kashan<\/a>:<\/strong> traditional houses, gardens and desert-edge architecture.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Isfahan:<\/strong> Iran\u2019s most famous square, mosques, bridges and Safavid landmarks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Yazd:<\/strong> desert architecture, windcatchers, Zoroastrian heritage and quiet old lanes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Shiraz:<\/strong> gardens, poetry sites, historic mosques and nearby Persepolis.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"before-you-book\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Before You Book Iran Travel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Several governments advise against all travel to Iran. These advisories can affect insurance coverage, flight availability, cancellation terms and tour confirmation. Before confirming your trip, check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Your national travel advisory<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Travel insurance coverage for Iran<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Visa requirements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>International flight or overland entry options<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hotel cancellation terms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Backup route options<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Local conditions close to departure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Planning Tips<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Keep your <a href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/how-many-days-is-enough-for-iran\/\">itinerary<\/a> flexible and avoid tight domestic connections.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use private transfers or trains for important travel days.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Book hotels with clear cancellation rules.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not rely on one transport method. Include backup options.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Work with a local operator who can update your plan when conditions change.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"faq\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details has-border-color is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-color:#e5e7eb;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;margin-top:8px;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:14px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:14px;padding-left:16px\"><summary>Is Iran open for tourists in 2026?<\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:10px;margin-bottom:0\">Iran has not closed to tourists and continues to issue tourist visas, but conditions are not normal. International flights continue on selected routes, with several country-specific suspensions still in effect, and several governments advise against all travel to Iran. Check official advisories, visa rules, insurance coverage and transport options before booking.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details has-border-color is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-color:#e5e7eb;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;margin-top:8px;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:14px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:14px;padding-left:16px\"><summary>Are international flights to Iran operating?<\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:10px;margin-bottom:0\">Yes. International passenger flights continue on selected routes. Iranian airlines are currently operating to China, Russia, Turkey, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Armenia, Belarus, Tajikistan and Malaysia. Imam Khomeini Airport City also lists Vietnam among its operating destinations. Iraqi Airways has resumed flights between Najaf and airports in Iran, according to IRNA citing Iraq\u2019s official news agency. Iranian and Iraqi airline services between the two countries are operating from October 4, according to Iran\u2019s Civil Aviation Organization. Iranian-airline services to the UAE remain cancelled, while Iranian-airline services to Oman, Georgia and Azerbaijan remain suspended or restricted. Confirm your individual flight directly with your airline before traveling to the airport.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details has-border-color is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-color:#e5e7eb;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;margin-top:8px;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:14px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:14px;padding-left:16px\"><summary>Can I enter or leave Iran by land?<\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:10px;margin-bottom:0\">Yes. Land borders with Turkey (Bazargan and Razi) and Armenia (Nordooz) are open, but heavy congestion has been reported. Iraq\u2019s Shalamcheh and Chazabeh crossings reopened on September 13. Overland travel to Azerbaijan is restricted.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details has-border-color is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-color:#e5e7eb;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;margin-top:8px;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:14px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:14px;padding-left:16px\"><summary>Can I travel around Iran by train?<\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:10px;margin-bottom:0\">Yes. Train travel remains one of the strongest options on several major routes. Confirm each route close to your travel date.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details has-border-color is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-color:#e5e7eb;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;margin-top:8px;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:14px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:14px;padding-left:16px\"><summary>Are buses available in Iran?<\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:10px;margin-bottom:0\">Yes. Buses connect most cities in Iran. For international visitors, private transfers usually offer better comfort and control.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details has-border-color is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-color:#e5e7eb;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;margin-top:8px;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:14px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:14px;padding-left:16px\"><summary>What is the best way to travel inside Iran now?<\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:10px;margin-bottom:0\">A flexible mix of private car, train and selected domestic flights.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details has-border-color is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-color:#e5e7eb;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;margin-top:8px;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:14px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:14px;padding-left:16px\"><summary>What is the best route for a first Iran trip?<\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:10px;margin-bottom:0\">Tehran, Kashan, Isfahan, Yazd and Shiraz. It offers culture, history, comfort and strong road access.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<details class=\"wp-block-details has-border-color is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-color:#e5e7eb;border-style:solid;border-width:1px;margin-top:8px;margin-bottom:40px;padding-top:14px;padding-right:16px;padding-bottom:14px;padding-left:16px\"><summary>Should I buy travel insurance for Iran?<\/summary>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"margin-top:10px;margin-bottom:0\">Yes. Check that your policy covers Iran and remains valid under your country\u2019s travel advisory.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"surfiran\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Planning a Trip with SURFIRAN<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">SURFIRAN monitors flight operations, railway updates, road conditions and official advisories before confirming each Iran travel plan, and adjusts routes when conditions change. Explore <a href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/tours\">Iran tours<\/a> or request a <a href=\"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/tailor-made\">tailor-made Iran journey<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Iran travel is not normal right now. Inside the country, trains, intercity buses and private road transfers continue to operate. This page explains what has changed and how to plan a trip with care. We update it as the situation evolves. Last updated: October 29, 2026, 10:45 AM Iran time (UTC+03:30) What to Know About &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":88606,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":true,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[110,16712],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-88605","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news","category-to-know"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/SURFIRAN-Team.jpg","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/88605","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=88605"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/88605\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":202892,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/88605\/revisions\/202892"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/88606"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=88605"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=88605"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/surfiran.com\/mag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=88605"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}