Tehran, Iran

🏙️ Tehran, Iran

“Where Ancient Heritage Meets Futuristic Ambitions”

🗺️ Overview

Tehran, the capital of Iran, is a city of vivid contrasts. Set at the foot of the snow-capped Alborz Mountains, it blends Persian tradition with bold modernity. Expect a tapestry of royal palaces, bustling bazaars, fine art museums, and lively cafes, all while being shadowed by politics and poetry. Though often overlooked, Tehran reveals a vibrant, complex soul to those who explore beyond the headlines.

Fly All Over Rating: 8.2/10
✔️ Cultural richness & Persian hospitality
✔️ Museums, architecture, and majestic mountains
✔️ Affordable and safe for most travelers
❌ Traffic congestion
❌ Some restrictions on dress, social freedom, and internet use

✈️ Getting There & Around

Main Airport: Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) – about 40 km from the city
Transport:
- Metro: Efficient and cheap
- Snapp & Tap30: Local ride-sharing apps
- Taxis: Widely available, agree on fare beforehand

🌆 Top Attractions

🏰 1. Golestan Palace

UNESCO-listed Qajar-era palace with mirrored halls, tranquil gardens, and vivid tilework — a must-see.

🏛️ 2. National Museum of Iran

Houses 30,000+ years of history, including treasures from Persepolis and ancient Persia.

🗼 3. Milad Tower

One of the tallest towers in the world. Go up for panoramic city views, shops, and restaurants.

🕌 4. Imamzadeh Saleh Mosque

A striking blue-tiled mosque in the north of Tehran — peaceful and photogenic.

🏔️ 5. Tochal Mountain

Take a cable car or hike for epic views, skiing in winter, and fresh mountain air — just minutes from the city.

🍽️ What to Eat

Signature Dishes

Chelo Kebab – Iran’s national dish: saffron rice with grilled lamb or beef
Tahchin – Baked saffron rice cake layered with chicken
Fesenjan – Pomegranate-walnut stew, deeply flavorful
Ash Reshteh – Thick noodle soup with herbs and legumes
Persian Ice Cream – Saffron, rosewater, and pistachio-infused delight

Recommended Places

Moslem Restaurant (Grand Bazaar) – Popular and always busy
Divan Restaurant – High-end Persian dining with a modern twist
Dizi Sara – Authentic Iranian lamb stew in a traditional setting

🏨 Where to Stay

💰 Budget

Hi Tehran Hostel – Friendly, clean, central
Heritage Hostel – Cozy with Persian character

🏨 Mid-Range

Howeyzeh Hotel – Great location with full amenities
Espinas Persian Gulf Hotel – Elegant and centrally located

🌟 Luxury

Espinas Palace Hotel – Grand, five-star comfort with mountain views
Parsian Azadi Hotel – Premium services, pool, and spa

🛍️ What to Buy

Persian carpets – A lifetime treasure
Miniature paintings & calligraphy
Handmade copperware
Saffron, rosewater & pistachios
Ceramic tiles and Persian tea sets

📅 Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–November) – Ideal weather
Summers – Hot but dry
Winters – Snowy, especially in the north

🛡️ Travel Tips

Dress modestly: Women must wear a headscarf and loose clothing; men should avoid shorts
Alcohol is prohibited
Avoid public political conversations
VPN is recommended to access many social media sites
Learn a few Farsi phrases — locals appreciate it

📊 Tehran Ratings

Category	Score	Notes
History & Culture	8.5	Rich museums, architecture, and cultural depth
Food & Cuisine	8.7	Delicious and varied Persian food
Affordability	9.0	Very budget-friendly
Infrastructure	7.5	Growing but traffic can be intense
Nature & Scenery	8.2	Mountain access and green spots like Darband
Safety	8.0	Safe for tourists but observe local laws
Accessibility	7.8	Well connected but language barrier exists
Overall Travel Value	8.2	Authentic, underrated, and culturally immersive