Sightseeing: Carpet Museum, Sa’ad Abad Complex, Reza Abbasi Museum

 

 Night Optional Tours in Tehran : Visiting Nature Bridge (Pol-e Tabiat), Milad tower, Darband, Tajrish bazaar, Azadi square, Charming Cafes in Tehran

 

 

Upon your pre-dawn arrival at Tehran Airport, our representative --- holding a sign with your transfer information-- will greet you and escort you to your hotel.

After checking in, you’ll have time to rest before beginning our morning tour of Tehran.

 

 

To make the most of the day and avoid heavy traffic, we’ll use the subway and chartered taxis. This not only saves time but also gives you a great opportunity to interact with local people and experience everyday life in Tehran.

 

Our tour begins at 9:30 AM with a visit to the Carpet Museum of Iran, home to more than 100 stunning carpets and rugs from across the country. Here, you’ll gain insight into the artistry, craftsmanship, and history behind Persian hand woven carpets.

 

Next, we explore the expansive Sa’ad Abad Complex, covering 1,100,000 square meters and featuring 18 historic palaces two of which we will tour. Originally built by Qajar monarchs in the 19th century, the complex was later used by Reza Shah and Mohammad Reza Shah of the Pahlavi dynasty before being converted into a museum after the 1979 Revolution. Its grandeur and history make it one of Tehran’s most impressive landmarks. Following our visit, we’ll enjoy a delicious Iranian lunch at a traditional restaurant.

 

 

In the afternoon, we head to the Reza Abbasi Museum, named after the renowned Safavid-era artist. The museum displays an exceptional collection of Persian art spanning from the 2nd millennium BC to the Islamic period, offering  a deep look into Iran’s artistic heritage.

 

 

 Overnight in Tehran

 

 

Note : The order of sightseeing may vary depending on your arrival time, the guide’s recommendations, and official or unofficial museum holidays. Unforeseen events may cause changes to the tour itinerary.

Sightseeing: National Museum of Iran, Golestan Palace, Bazaar, National Jewelry Museum

 

We begin the morning with a visit to the National Museum of Iran, consisting of two main sections: the Museum of Ancient Iran (opened in 1937) and the Museum of the Islamic Era (opened in 1972). Together, they house an extraordinary collection of historical artifacts— including pottery, metalwork, textiles, rare books, and ancient coins— offering a remarkable journey through Iran’s ancient and medieval heritage. Through these displays, we gain a vivid picture of the evolution of civilization in this region.

 

Our next stop is the magnificent Golestan Palace, the former Qajar royal complex and one of Tehran’s oldest and most celebrated monuments. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes elegant halls, beautiful gardens, and collections showcasing Iranian craftsmanship as well as European gifts from the 18th and 19th centuries.

 

We then take a stroll through the bustling Tehran Bazaar, the economic heartbeat of the city. More than just a marketplace, the bazaar is a vibrant social hub where daily life unfolds people gather, interact, and shape the cultural and political landscape of the city. After our walk, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

 

 

Our Tehran sightseeing concludes with a visit to the National Jewelry Museum,home to an unrivaled collection of priceless jewels. Among its treasures is the famed Darya-e-Noor “Sea of Light”, one of the world’s most renowned diamonds. (The museum is only open  on Saturdays to Tuesdays from 13:00 to 16:00).

 

 

In the late afternoon, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Shiraz.

 

 

Overnight in Shiraz

 

 

Night Optional Tour in Shiraz: Concert tour in Sang-e Siah district, Zoorkhaneh, Baba Kouhi (mountain trekking), Cinema Complex, Walking Tour, Cafe Tour

Sightseeing: Karim Khan Palace, Vakil Mosque, Vakil Bazaar, Saraye Moshir, Tombs of Hafez & Saadi, Ali-Ebn-e-Hamzeh Shrine, Jahan Nama Garden, Eram Garden, Tomb of Khajou-ye Kermani

 

Shiraz has long been known as a center of enlightenment and culture, serving as one of Iran’s most influential cities for over 2,000 years—and once even its capital. Often celebrated as the heartland of Persian culture, Shiraz evokes images of poetry, gardens, roses, and nightingales.

 

 

We begin our morning by exploring the highlights from the Zand Dynasty, when Shiraz served as the nation’s capital. Our first stops include the impressive Karim Khan Palace, the elegant Vakil Mosque, the bustling Vakil Bazaar, and Saraye Moshir, known for its beautiful architecture and traditional handicraft shops. 

 

 

Next, we enjoy a delicious Iranian lunch at one of Shiraz’s traditional restaurants.

 

 

This enchanting city is also home to Iran’s most beloved poets. We will visit the tombs of Hafez and Saadi, two literary masters whose words continue to inspire readers around the world.

 

 

Hafez, admired for the depth and beauty of his poetry, rests in a tranquil garden setting that exudes peace.

 

 

Saadi—poet, philosopher, mystic, and often called the “father of tourism”—traveled widely seven centuries ago and recorded his experiences in his masterpieces Bustan and Golestan, which remain rich sources of wisdom and inspiration.

 

 

In the evening, we visit the stunning Eram Garden, a perfect example of a Persian garden and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We then stop at the beautifully adorned Ali-Ebn-e-Hamzeh Shrine, known for its breathtaking mirror-work. Afterwards, we take a peaceful stroll through Jahan Nama Garden, famous for its towering cypress trees.

 

 

We end the day at the tomb of Khajou-ye Kermani, where a panoramic view of Shiraz offers a memorable final impression of this magical city.

 

 

Overnight in Shiraz

Sightseeing: Persepolis, Necropolis, Pasargadae, Flower Garden in Arsenjan, Bakhtegan Lake

 

In the morning, we begin with a visit to Persepolis. Founded by Darius I in 518 B.C., Persepolis served as the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire.Rising from an immense terrace—half natural, half artificial—the city housed an extraordinary palace complex inspired by Mesopotamian architecture. Thescale, craftsmanship, and grandeur of its ruins make Persepolis one of theworld’s most remarkable archaeological sites. Darius envisioned this majesticensemble not only as the seat of imperial power but also as a spectacularvenue for royal ceremonies, receptions, and festivals such as Nowruz.

 

Our second stop is the Necropolis (Naqsh-e Rostam). Standing proudly opposite Mount Rahmat, just ten minutes to the north of Persepolis, this monumental site is the resting place of the Achaemenid kings. Here, visitors can also admire seven striking bas-reliefs carved during the Elamite and Sassanid periods.

 

 

Along the way, we will visit Pasargadae, the first capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Built under the direction of Cyrus the Great, it marks one of the mostimportant early achievements of Persian civilization.

 

 

We will then, continue our journey toward Meymand Shahr-e Babak, traveling via Arsanjan and the scenic Bakhtegan Lake. Lake Bakhtegan, is a salt lake in Fars province and is the second-largest lake in Iran. It was fed by the Kor River.

 

 

We will then visit Meymand, an ancient troglodyte village near Kerman, where people have lived for thousands of years inside hand-carved rock dwellings.

 

 

Its unique cave homes, dramatic desert-mountain landscape, and deep cultural heritage create an unforgettable atmosphere.

 

 

Visitors can explore traditional lifestyles, peaceful natural scenery, and one of Iran’s most remarkable UNESCO sites.

 

 

Overnight in Meymand

Sightseeing: Tomb of Shah Nematollah Vali, Bam Citadel

 

Night Optional Tours in Bam: Night visit of the illuminated Bam Citadel, Zoorkhaneh

 

We will continue our journey toward Bam, traveling through the historic town of Mahan. Along the way, we will visit the Tomb of Shah Nematollah Vali, therenowned Iranian Sufi master, poet, and founder of the Nematollahi order. His mausoleum, set within a serene complex of courtyards, gardens, and beautifully tiled halls, is not only a place of spiritual significance but also one of the finest examples of Persian architecture from the Timurid era. The tranquil atmosphere and intricate craftsmanship make it a memorable cultural pause on our route.

 

 

Upon arrival in Bam, we will head directly to explore the legendary Bam Citadel (Arg-e Bam), one of the largest adobe structures in the world. Located along the ancient Silk Road, this monumental fortress dates back to the Achaemenid period and stands as a testament to centuries of desert architecture and urban planning. Despite damage from the 2003 earthquake, ongoing restoration efforts have revived much of its former grandeur, allowing visitors to appreciate its massive walls, watchtowers, and centuries-old residential quarters.

 

 

Overnight in Bam

Sightseeing: Lut Desert

 

It’s finally time to hit the road and discover the captivating beauty of Kerman.After enjoying breakfast in Bam, we begin our journey toward Kerman, traveling through the breathtaking and mysterious Lut Desert. Along the way, we’ll pause at several remarkable viewpoints, giving you the chance to soak in the desert’s dramatic landscapes, astonishing geological formations, and endless golden horizons.

This unforgettable route promises a perfect blend of adventure, natural wonder, and pure tranquility—an experience every traveler will treasure.

 

 

Overnight in Kerman

 

 

Sightseeing: Ganjalikhan Complex, SarYazd Castle, Pahlavan Garden

 

Night Optional Tours in Kerman: Fath-Abad Garden, Dome of Jabalieh, Moayedi icehouse, Kerman cable car, Kerman roof view

 

Today we have a wonderful opportunity to explore one of Kerman’s most beautiful and historic landmarks: the Ganjali Khan Complex. As we walk through this magnificent ensemble, we step into a world shaped by centuries of art and culture—from the elegant Ganjali Khan Bathhouse, adorned with stunning traditional paintings and exquisite architecture, to the lively Kerman Bazaar, where the colors of handmade carpets, the aroma of spices, and the energy of local life create an unforgettable atmosphere.

 

After this enriching experience, we continue our journey toward Yazd. On the way, we will make an inspiring stop to visit an ancient Qanat (Kahriz), discovering the ingenious traditional engineering that has brought water to the heart of the desert for thousands of years. We will then head to the historic Sar Yazd Castle, a striking fortress rising from the desert sands, whose unique structure and silent walls carry us back to distant eras.

 

This day offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and desert landscapes—an unforgettable experience for every traveler seeking beauty, authenticity, and the hidden stories of Iran.

 

Over night in Yazd

Sightseeing: Zoroastrian Towers of Silence & Fire Temple, Amir Chakhmaq Complex, Jame Mosque of Yazd

 

Night Optional Tours in Yazd  : Sindbad or Shabahang desert camp, Chak ckak & kharanagh excursion

 

Today in Yazd, we will pay a visit to Zoroastrian Towers of Silence; circular raised structures built by Zoroastrians for excarnation (for dead bodies to be exposed to carrion birds), and Fire Temple; the place of worship for Zoroastrians. At night, we will visit Amir Chakhmaq Complex; a prominent structure noted for its symmetrical sunken alcoves. It is a mosque located on a square of the same name. It also contains a caravanserai, a tekyeh (a place where Shiite gather for mourning of Muharram), a bathhouse, a cold water well, and a confectionery. At night, the building is lit up after twilight hours after sun set with orange lighting in the arched alcoves which makes it a spectacle.

 

 

We will also explore one of Yazd’s most iconic and awe-inspiring landmarks: the Jame Mosque of Yazd. As we approach this magnificent masterpiece, it towering minarets—the tallest in Iran—rise gracefully above the city, guiding us toward a place where history, faith, and artistry blend seamlessly. Stepping inside, we are welcomed by the mosque’s mesmerizing turquoise-blue tilework, intricate geometric patterns, and a serene courtyard that reflects centuries of devotion and craftsmanship. The stunning main entrance, with its grand portal and dazzling mosaic decorations, is a true testament to the brilliance of Persian-Islamic architecture.

 

 

While exploring its calm interior and beautifully illuminated prayer hall, we can feel the timeless spirit of Yazd’s desert culture echoing through every arch and inscription. This visit allows us not only to admire one of Iran’s architectural gems, but also to connect with the rich cultural and spiritual heritage that has shaped this ancient city.

 

 

Overnight in Yazd

 

Sightseeing: Narin Castle of Meybod, Jame Mosque of Naien and traditional abaya-weaving workshop in Nain

 

Night Optional Tours in Isfahan: Visit Khajoo Bridge, known for its lively evening singing, Sofeh Park, and traditional hammam

 

Today we depart Yazd at 8:00 AM and head toward the enchanting city ofIsfahan. Along the scenic route, we’ll explore some of Iran’smost captivating historical and natural treasures.

 

 

Our first stop is Meybod, located in the heart of Yazd province, is a timeless desert city where history and culture come alive. From the impressive NarinCastle—one of Iran’s oldest mud-brick fortresses—to the elegant Pigeon Towerand the traditional Yakhchal icehouse, every corner tells a unique story.Strolling through its charming alleys, you’ll discover authentic crafts like exquisite pottery and handmade textiles. Meybod is a perfect destination for travelers seeking peaceful landscapes, ancient architecture, and an authentic taste of Iranian desert life.

 

 

Our second visit would be Naien, one of Iran’s oldest cities and a living testament to ancient Persian ingenuity. Here, we’ll discover the remarkableunderground qanat system — a 3,000-year-old engineering marvel that oncesupplied over 70% of Iran’s water. We’ll visit a traditional abaya-weaving workshop, where skilled artisans craft the elegant, flowing black cloaks worn by many Iranian women, and explore the magnificent Jame Mosque of Nain — one of the oldest mosques in Iran. Dating back to the 9th–11th centuries, this beautifully preserved gem showcases exquisite Seljuk brickwork, intricate stone and wood carvings, and the distinctive “Khorasani” architectural style blending pre-Islamic and early Islamic influences. Remarkably, it remains an active place of worship today.

 

 

Arrival in Isfahan in the late afternoon. You’ll have a chance to join one of the optional tours in Isfahan.

 

 

Overnight in Isfahan

Sightseeing: Vank Cathedral, Si-o-seh Pol bridge, Chaharbagh Abbasi, Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Aliqapoo Palace, Shah Abbas Mosque

 

 

Isfahan—often described as “Half the World”—is a legendary city that never fails to enchant its visitors. Known as the jewel of traditional Islamic architecture, Isfahan is also a vibrant center where history and contemporary arts blend beautifully. Famous for its magnificent palaces, elegant gardens, and serene atmosphere, the city has captivated travelers for centuries.

 

 

Our first visit would be Vank Cathedral, one of the most beautiful Armenianchurches in the world, renowned for its intricate frescoes, gilded decorations, and peaceful courtyard. It is a profound cultural and spiritual landmark that captivates visitors—especially Christian travelers.

 

 

We will the visit iconic Si-o-seh Pol (Allahverdi Khan Bridge), the celebrated“Bridge of Thirty-Three Arches.” This masterpiece of Safavid engineering spans the Zayandehroud River at a length of nearly 298 meters, making it the longest and one of the most elegant bridges in Isfahan.

 

 

Later, we’ll stroll along Chaharbagh-e Abbasi, one of Isfahan’s most charming historic streets, leading to Naqsh-e Jahan Square to visit Ali Qapu Palace and Shah Abbas Mosque.

 

 

Naqsh-e Jahan Square is one of the largest and most impressive squares on the planet, second in size only to Beijing’s Tiananmen Square. Surrounding the square are some of the most stunning architectural masterpieces of the Safavid era.

 

 

Next, we explore Ali Qapu Palace, whose name combines the Persian “Ālī” (imperial or great) and the Azerbaijani “Qāpū” (gate). As the grand gateway to the royal palaces stretching from Naqsh-e Jahan Square to Chahar Bagh Strret, Ali Qapu served as a ceremonial entrance and an elevated viewpoint for watching polo matches and festivities in the square.

 

 

We continue our tour with visits to two of the city’s most extraordinary religious landmarks: Shah Abbas Mosque, a masterpiece of tilework, calligraphy, and harmonious.

 

 

Overnight in Isfahan

Sightseeing: The Holy Shrine of Imam Reza & Astan Quds Razavi Museum, Naderi Museum

 

Night Optional Tours in Mashhad: Shandiz, Torghabeh, Chalidareh, Koh-Sangi Park

 

Mashhad, the second most populous city in Iran, is located in the northeast near the borders of Turkmenistan. The city is best known and deeply revered for housing the tomb of Imam Reza, the eighth Shia Imam. Each year, millions of pilgrims travel to Mashhad to visit the shrine and pay tribute.

 

In the afternoon, we will begin our tour at the holy shrine of Imam Reza. This magnificent complex is essentially a living museum, showcasing masterpieces created throughout history by Iran’s finest artisans. Here you can admire exquisite mirror work, stucco decorations, moqarnas (stalactite-style ornamentation), marquetry, wood and stone carvings, as well as exquisite handwoven carpets. Exploring the shrine offers a profound insight into Iranian art, culture, and social history from ancient times to the present day.

 

Afterward, we will visit the Astan Quds Razavi Central Museum, one of the most important museum complexes in Iran, inaugurated in 1964. Its diverse collections include Islamic art and historical artifacts displayed across several specialized museums, such as the Museum of Quran and Precious Objects, the Carpet Museum, the Armaments Museum, the Museum of Coins and Medals, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

 

Overnight in Mashhad.

Sightseeing: The Tombs of Khayyam & Attar, Shadyakh, and the Museum of Nishabur

 

Nishabur, located in Iran’s northeastern Khorasan Province, lies on a fertile plain at the foot of the Binalud Mountains. Founded in the 3rd century by Shapur I as a Sasanid satrapy capital, the city later flourished under several ruling dynasties. It served as the capital of the Tahirid dynasty under Abdullah Tahir in 830, and in 1037, Tughril also chose it as the capital of the Seljuq dynasty. From the Abbasid period until the Mongol invasions, Nishabur grew into one of the Islamic world’s most important cultural, commercial, and intellectual centers. Today, the principal remains of ancient Nishabur lie within the 3,500-hectare Kohandejh area, south of the modern city.

 

Our visit begins at the tomb of Omar Khayyam, the renowned scholar, mathematician, astronomer, philosopher, and poet. Born in Nishabur, Khayyam later studied in Samarkand and worked in Bukhara, where he rose to prominence as one of the leading scientific figures of the Islamic Golden Age. His contributions span mathematics, astronomy, mechanics, mineralogy, geography, and even music.

 

We will then visit the tomb of Attar of Nishabur, the celebrated Persian mystic poet and influential Sufi theoretician. Attar’s works left a profound and enduring mark on Persian literature and the spiritual tradition of Sufism.

 

Next, we explore Shadyakh, once one of the grand palaces, gardens, and prominent neighborhoods of old Nishabur. Established in the 9th century by Abdullah ibn Tahir al-Khurasani, Shadyakh grew in importance over the centuries and was home to notable figures—including Attar himself, whose tomb now stands in this area. The site is believed to have been destroyed in the 13th century.

 

Archaeological excavations conducted from 2000 to 2002 uncovered remnants of buildings (likely palace structures), human remains, tools, and various artifacts. Today, Shadyakh is recognized as a national monument of Iran.

 

Our day concludes with a visit to the Museum of Nishabur, where we explore artifacts that illuminate the city’s rich historical and cultural legacy.

 

We will return to Mashhad for an overnight stay.  
 

Sightseeing: The Tombs of Abolhasan Kharghani & Bayazid Bastami, and the Chahjam Desert

 

This morning, we depart for Shahroud on the 6:00 a.m. Pardis train. (If train tickets are unavailable, the transfer will be made by private car, with the fare difference applied.) Upon arriving in Shahroud, we will head to the hotel to rest and enjoy lunch. We highly recommend spending the night in the Chahjam Desert for the full experience.

 

In the evening, we set out to visit the tombs of two of Iran’s great Sufi masters—Abolhasan Kharghani and Bayazid Bastami—located in the beautiful villages of Kharaghan and Bastam. Here, we will explore their profound influence on Iranian literature, culture, and the spiritual tradition of Sufism.

 

We then continue toward the Chahjam Desert, approximately 80 km away. Upon arrival, we will take a peaceful night walk across the sands, admire the resilient desert trees and shrubs, and enjoy dinner in a picturesque oasis. Under the vast, star-filled sky, we’ll sip tea and learn about the ancient qanat system—an ingenious method of drawing water from deep wells that has sustained desert communities for centuries.

 

Depending on preference and availability, we will spend the night either in the Chahjam Desert or return to our hotel in Shahroud.  
 

Sightseeing: The Natural Wonders of Abr Forest, and Gonbad-e Kavus

 

Today’s journey begins with a drive to Abr Village, followed by a transfer to the breathtaking Abr Forest, located at the foothills of the Chogholgir mountain range. This unique valley, lush with dense forest, lies just a short distance from the desert—yet it is often filled with clouds drifting in from the moisture of the Caspian Sea.

 

As we descend from the highlands toward Shirinabad Village, we find ourselves above the clouds. Whether we choose to hike or bike along this spectacular route, we will travel through what appears to be an ocean of clouds, eventually descending beneath them as we reach the valley floor. If the Shirinabad–Abr route is not suitable, we will take the scenic Alang Road instead.

 

After this unforgettable experience, we continue to Gonbad-e Kavus, home to the tallest brick tower in the world. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to take photos wearing traditional Iranian Turkmen clothing.

 

Finally, we transfer to Gorgan, enjoy dinner in the beautiful Naharkhoran woodland area.

 

Over night in Gorgan

Sightseeing: The Natural Beauties of Gorgan, Bandar-e Turkaman, Ashooradeh & Miankaleh

 

Today we begin our excursion by traveling to Bandar-e Torkaman, a vibrant port on the Caspian Sea. Here, we will visit some of the region’s finest horse breeding centers and equestrian pistes, while also getting acquainted with the rich culture, traditions, and colorful lifestyle of the Turkmen people.

 

Next, we board a boat to Ashooradeh Island, where we will enjoy dinner, take a leisurely walk across the island, and visit local workshops dedicated to caviar production, one of the area’s most renowned crafts.

 

We then continue by boat to the Miankaleh Peninsula, a protected biosphere reserve celebrated for its remarkable biodiversity. As we explore Miankaleh, we will observe a variety of migratory birds and take in the region’s serene natural beauty.

 

After our visit, we return to Gorgan and spend the night there.  
 

We will take a flight to Tehran, and upon arrival, you will be transferred directly to IKA for your departure.

 

 As you leave Iran -the land of history, culture, nature, beauty, and hospitality- we hope the memories you take with you will last a lifetime.

 

Note: In this tour, a hotel for this final night is not included. However, upon request, we can arrange a room at an IKA airport hotel for a few hours or for the entire night, depending on your departure time.