Yes, Australians are allowed and welcome to travel to Iran.

People are free to arrange their own trips, however, SURFIRAN also provides a customised tour option, so a private tour can be arranged which suits the needs of an individual, a couple, a family or a group of friends.

Proof of evidence of travel into Israel in a passport can lead to a refusal of entry into Iran. Otherwise, there are very few cases were entry will be denied.

No. A valid visa is required to enter Iran under all circumstances for Australian citizens. 30-day visas are available on arrival at the international airport for Australian passport holders.

Due to US sanctions, the use of these credit cards is not possible at this point. There is, however, a tourist debit card, which allows you to store cash and pay for goods and services using this card

Yes. This is not a problem. Under Iranian law, unmarried couples are prohibited from living together or being alone unless they are family or married. In practice, this does not tend to be enforced on foreign couples when it comes to hotels or other services. Foreigners who are in a relationship with an Iranian will sometimes have to show proof of marriage to be able to stay together. The worst-case scenario is that you may be asked to stay in separate rooms.

Women are required to wear a headscarf in public at all times. It does not have to be put tightly on but must be there as a form of covering. Otherwise, most of your skin should be covered in clothes. This also tends to apply to men, where shorts are not accepted in public. Short sleeve shirts, however, are accepted. Read more…

It is not a requirement to agree with any particular political decision or religious ideology to visit Iran. While in Iran, you will hear a lot of different views from different people about politics and religion, and inevitable all travellers will have their own thoughts. However, the Iranian government is very sensitive to any foreign involvement in internal political affairs, so any political activity inside Iran, particularly directed against the Iranian government, could lead to arrest. At least while in Iran, it is best to keep your views private on political and religious matters.

Drinking alcohol is against the law in Iran and no shops are permitted to sell it. Anyone caught in possession of alcohol faces arrest and in the case of a tourist face deportation. People in Iran tend to drink tea, Sharbat (a cool, sweet drink known as the world’s first soft drink) or doogh (a savoury yogurt drink). Alcohol free beer is also available. Pork is not available. When it comes to meat most Iranians tend to eat chicken, beef or lamb, all of which are widely available. Read more…

Rules on photography depends on the place. Many mosques will allow photography inside and outside. Some museums will not allow photography inside but will outside. Generally, if it is not permitted, a sign will indicate. Restrictions are placed on photography of government and military buildings. For people, when taking photos of specific people, it is always better to ask for permission. Often this will led to a positive response, many Iranians like to pose for photos.

Yes, it is possible to buy Persian rugs or other souvenirs. Iran is known for having the best rugs and carpets in the world. However, caution is advised before spending lots of money to ensure you are getting the genuine item rather than a fake. When buying items in places like the Bazaar, bargaining for price is considered normal.

It depends on what you want to do! In most places in Iran summer is hot and winter is cold, with snow in some places. During the month of Ramadan it can be difficult for travellers as many food stores are close during the day. At times around the Iranian New Year which occurs on March 21, more people inside Iran go on holiday, so it can be more difficult to secure accommodation.