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

Night Optional Tours: Nature Bridge (Pol-e Tabiat), Milad tower, Darband, Tajrish bazaar, Azadi square, and 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 Tours 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, Eram Garden, Tombs of Hafez & Saadi, Ali-Ebn-e-Hamzeh Shrine, Jahan Nama Garden, and 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: Nasir Al Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque), Persepolis, Necropolis, Pasargadae.

We begin the morning with a visit to the beautiful Nasir Al Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque), followed by visiting legendary Persepolis, founded by Darius I in 518 BC. Once the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, Persepolis was constructed on a vast terrace—partly natural, partly man-made—where the “King of Kings” built an extraordinary complex of palaces inspired by Mesopotamian architecture. Designed not only as a seat of government but also as a spectacular setting for royal ceremonies such as Nowruz, the grandeur and historical significance of its monumental ruins make Persepolis one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in the world. 

Next, we visit Necropolis (Naqsh-e Rostam), located just north of Persepolis. This impressive site is home to the rock-cut tombs of Achaemenid kings, carved high into the cliffs of a Mountain. The site also features seven remarkable bas-reliefs from the Elamite and Sassanid periods, offering a fascinating look into Iran’s ancient artistic heritage. 

We will then drive another 60 km up north to visit Pasargadae, the first capital of the Achaemenid Empire, founded by Cyrus the Great (559–530 BC). This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes the impressive Tomb of Cyrus and the remains of his royal complex, offering a powerful window into the early Persian Empire.

Overnight in Shiraz

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

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

We depart from the hotel at 8:00 AM and begin our journey toward Isfahan. We then continue the drive to Isfahan, arriving around 1:00 PM. After lunch, we start our planned sightseeing.

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 Armenian churches 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: Chehel Sotoun Palace, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Jame (Grand) Mosque, Music Museum

Our full-day tour begins at the graceful Chehel Sotoun Palace, a royal pavilion set within a peaceful garden at the end of a long reflecting pool. Built by Shah Abbas II for court ceremonies and royal receptions, the palace gets its name—“Forty Columns”—from the twenty wooden pillars at its entrance that, when reflected in the pool, appear as forty.

Next, we’ll visit Sheykh Lotfollah Mosque, a masterpiece of Persian architecture, famed for its intricate tilework, elegant dome, and serene, awe-inspiring beauty.

Our visit continues at Isfahan’s Grand Mosque, a stunning example of Persian architecture, where you can admire its magnificent domes, intricate brickwork, and centuries-old artistry that reflect the city’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.

Our final visit of the day is the Isfahan Music Museum, where you can explore a fascinating collection of traditional instruments and discover the rich musical heritage of the country.

Overnight in Isfahan
 

Sightseeing: Abyaneh village, Aghabozorg Mosque 

Night Optional Tour: Maranjab desert

Today, instead of the highway, we will choose the old Kashan route, passing through several villages and settlements to add charm and interest to the journey. We drive to towards Kashan via Toroghrood and Hanjen village.

We then continue to the UNESCO-recognized village of Abyaneh, situated in the Barzrud Rural District at the foothills of Mount Karkas and near the central desert. At the top of the village lie the remnants of a Sassanid-era fort, bearing witness to its long history. The people of Abyaneh speak a distinctive dialect that has preserved many features of Middle Persian—the language of Sassanian Iran.

We take time to enjoy the tranquility of this picturesque village, admire its unique architecture, and meet the friendly locals who still speak, live, and dress in traditional Persian style. The red-mud houses, stepped alleys, and cultural authenticity make Abyaneh a truly memorable stop.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Kashan and check into the hotel.

Overnight in Kashan 

Sightseeing: Borujerdiha House, Tabatabaei House, Fin Garden, Shrine of Fatema Masumeh

We begin our day with a visit to Kashan’s most celebrated historic mansions: the Borujerdiha House and the Tabatabaei House. These elegant residences showcase the refined architectural style of the Qajar era, with their intricate stucco work, stained-glass windows, and exquisite courtyards that reflect the lifestyle of wealthy merchant families of the time.

Our next stop is the renowned Fin Garden, a masterpiece of classical Persian garden design and the oldest surviving Persian garden, completed in 1590. Within the complex lies the historic Fin Bath, where the esteemed Qajar chancellor Amir Kabir was tragically assassinated on the orders of King Nasereddin Shah in 1852. The garden’s flowing water channels, ancient cypress trees, and architectural harmony offer a serene and memorable experience.

After lunch, we depart Kashan and make our way toward Tehran’s international airport (IKA). En route, we stop in Qom, one of the most sacred cities for Shia Muslims in Iran. Here we visit the holy shrine of Fatema Masumeh, an important pilgrimage site admired for its spiritual significance and remarkable tilework.

Finally, we continue 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.