
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.
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.
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.
Our day begins with a visit to Nasir Al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque), and then Persepolis, founded by Darius I in 518 B.C. as the capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Perched on a vast half-natural, half-artificial terrace, Persepolis was designed not only as a seat of government but also as a magnificent showplace for royal receptions and festivals, including the celebration of Nowruz. Its monumental ruins reflect extraordinary craftsmanship, making it a truly unique archaeological site.
Next, we visit the Necropolis, located just ten minutes north, opposite Mount Rahmat. This grand burial site of the Achaemenid kings also features seven bas-reliefs dating back to the Elamite and Sassanid periods.
After returning to the hotel for some rest, you can choose either of the Optional Tours .
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.
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 extraordin ary religious landmarks: Shah Abbas Mosque, a masterpiece of tilework, calligraphy, and harmonious.
Finally transfer to the Aiport for the flight to Mashhad.
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.
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Jaddah. Arrive to the Jaddeh airport , meet your guide and Transfer tot he hotel. After that visiting the floating Mosque, Local Flavors & Cultural Experience
Explore the historic Al-Balad district (UNESCO World Heritage). Visit Beit Nassif, Al-Matbouli Museum, and wander the souqs.
Stroll along the Jeddah Corniche, see the King Fahd Fountain. Dinner at a seafood restaurant by the Red Sea.
Overnight in Jeddah.
Morning flight from Jeddah to Abha. Check into a hotel in Abha or nearby Rijal Alma'a. Enjoy the cool mountain air.
Overnight in Abha region.
Visit the Rijal Alma'a village (a candidate for UNESCO). Explore its distinctive stone and stained-glass window forts.
Experience the Al-Soudah area. Take the cable car for breathtaking views, walk across the suspended bridge at Jabal Al-Lawz.
Visit the Abha Dam or the Al-Muftaha Village art scene.
Overnight in Abha.
Prepare for a full-day, spectacular drive north (≈7-8 hours) through ever-changing landscapes towards Al-Ula. Arrive in Al-Ula, check into your accommodation
Guided tour of the breathtaking Hegra (Al-Hijr), Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the monumental Nabataean tombs.
Visit Jabal Ikmah, an open-air library of ancient inscriptions. Explore Dadan, the capital of the Dadan and Lihyan kingdoms. Visit Elephant Rock (Jabal AlFil) for sunset views.
Overnight in Al-Ula.
Optional early visit to Al-Ula Old Town before departing. Drive east (≈4 hours) to Hail, the gateway to the Great Nafud Desert. Visit the iconic Qishlah Fort in the city center and the nearby A'arif Fort. Experience local culture at a traditional restaurant. Overnight in Hail.
Begin the drive southeast towards Riyadh (≈5.5 hours). Stop at the At-Turaif District in Diriyah (on the outskirts of Riyadh). This mud-brick citadel, the original home of the Saudi royal family and a UNESCO site, is a must-see. Explore the museums and restored alleys. Check into your hotel in Riyadh.
Overnight in Riyadh.
Visit the National Museum and the adjacent King Abdulaziz Historical Center for a deep dive into Saudi history.
Experience modern Saudi at Kingdom Centre Tower (sky bridge) or VIA Riyadh for luxury shopping and dining.
Last-minute souvenir shopping in Souq Al-Zal or the modern Boulevard Riyadh City.
Head to King Khalid International Airport (RUH) for your flight home.