Understand

Tehran, the capital of Iran, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that begs to be explored. With its fascinating museums, beautiful parks, mouth-watering restaurants, and warm and friendly locals, Tehran is a destination not to be missed on your Iranian itinerary.

When navigating Tehran, you'll discover two distinct parts of the city: the north and the south. The northern districts boast prosperity, modernity, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere, albeit at a higher cost. On the other hand, the southern parts offer a more affordable experience, although they may lack the same allure.

Throughout its history, Tehran has undergone significant growth and transformation. A pivotal moment came when Agha Mohammed Khan, the first king of the Qajar dynasty, declared Tehran as the capital of Iran in 1778. This decision marked the beginning of the city's expansion, which was further accelerated during the reign of Fath-Ali Shah, another Qajar monarch.

The construction of a magnificent castle, along with accompanying majestic buildings, signaled the city's rising importance. As Tehran's population grew, numerous gates, squares, and mosques were erected. It was during the reign of Nassereddin Shah that the city's master plan was developed, leading to the construction of modern streets.

Despite the decline of the Qajar dynasty, Tehran continued its evolution into a modern metropolis. The cityscape transformed as large government buildings, new streets, recreational centers, urban service organizations, and academic institutions emerged. While this progress necessitated the destruction of some historic gates and buildings, Tehran's architectural landscape embraced a contemporary aesthetic.

While Tehran may be infamous for its pollution and traffic congestion, it still holds many hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. The city boasts over 800 well-maintained parks, providing green spaces for relaxation and respite. Situated at a high elevation, Tehran enjoys a cooler climate compared to other Middle Eastern cities. Summers are dry, with temperatures hovering around 36°C (95-100°F).

One of Tehran's unique features is its proximity to the Alborz mountain range in the north. Mount Damavand, Iran's highest peak, offers exceptional skiing opportunities in the winter months. Ski enthusiasts flock to mountain hotels and ski clubs in Shemshak and Dizin, as the snow quality in northern Tehran is considered by some to be among the best in the world.

Ultimately, Tehran offers a delightful blend of dry and cool weather, picturesque mountains, lush parks, tree-lined streets, and refreshing waterways. Exploring this multifaceted city is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Get in

Planning a trip to Iran? Here are some visa guidelines to keep in mind. Visa entry to Iran is restricted for citizens of Israel. However, for tourists from a wide range of countries, a 30-day visa on arrival is available at international airports. This includes citizens from countries such as Germany, Spain, Australia, Italy, Japan, Singapore, France, and many more. For a complete list, please refer to the official reference [link]. Upon arrival, no prior electronic registration is required, but it is advisable to have proof of insurance, which may be requested by the immigration authorities. Evidence of insurance can be in the form of a hard copy or can be purchased at the airport. The visa fee varies depending on the country and is charged in Euros. For example, citizens of Europe pay 75 euros (as of January 2017), while citizens of Australia pay 130 euros, and citizens of New Zealand pay 140 euros. When visiting Iran, it is important to note the visa process. First, you will need to pay for the insurance, followed by the payment for the visa itself. Afterward, there may be a short wait for the passport to be checked, usually taking approximately one hour. Please be aware that visa regulations can change, so it is always best to check with the relevant authorities or embassy before your trip. Enjoy your time exploring the mesmerizing beauty and rich culture of Iran!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish 1: Persian Kebab (Kebab-e Sabzi)The Persian Kebab is a beloved Iranian dish consisting of skewered, grilled meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken) seasoned with onions, tomato paste, saffron, turmeric, and other aromatic herbs and spices. It's typically served alongside rice, grilled tomatoes, and savory herbs like parsley and chives.

Dish 2: Tahchin (Tahchin-e Morgh)Tahchin is a comforting, traditional Persian dish made with basmati rice, cooked in a savory tomato sauce, and layered with tender pieces of chicken, then baked until fragrant and delicious. The dish is often garnished with fried onions, barberries, and a dollop of creamy mast-o-khiar (yogurt mixed with cucumber and walnuts).

Dish 3: Ghormeh Sabzi (Herb Stew)Ghormeh Sabzi is a filling, vegetarian stew characterized by its vibrant assortment of aromatic herbs (such as parsley, coriander, dill, and chives), tender white beans, and melt-in-your-mouth potatoes, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. This hearty dish is often enjoyed with a side of basmati rice or flatbread.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing