Why we should travel to Iran?
The first reason for traveling to Iran is its rich history and architecture. This eastern land was home to the oldest cities of ancient world such as Susa, Persepolis, etc.
You can find there many valuable things like unique architecture with great tile working, glass working and carving, taste organic and delicious foods, experience ancient lifestyle of nomads and rural, enjoy pure and four season nature, buy Persian handicrafts and souvenirs such as Iranian saffron and pistachio that are world known. Iran is the land of carpets, Persian cats, and most importantly, hospitable people. Undoubtedly, you will experience hospitality and kindness of people while traveling to Iran, as well as many other reasons that will surprise you.
Is Iran safe?
despite the negative news you hear in the media and websites, Iran is really safe and secure. Violence against foreigner tourists, racism and bad behavior are rarely seen in Iran. you hear always bad news about Iran that most of them are wrong and it is just politic games. Iran is generally safe and you can see the presence of tourists on social media such as Instagram, Facebook and etc. On the contrary you’ll find Iranians the kindest and most hospitable people in the world. Tourist reviews available on trip advisor and in personal blogs.
In Iran, the tourist is respected, which has a long history. You can research the hospitality of Iranians in the travel writing of Marco Polo and other travelers.
Iran is safe. We have many tourists from different countries. They have complete security in Iran. Our company provides all the measures related to your trip including an experienced tour guide who is monitored by the company 24/7 to be sure of your security.
need visa to travel to Iran?
Although citizens of a few countries can enter Iran without visa, citizens of most of countries needs a visa to enter Iran. Shidrokh travel is a licensed tour operator and can apply Iran visa for you, only need fill out visa form on our website and send us your documents then you can get your Iran visa 3-7 business day.
What is the best time for travelling to Iran?
Iran is a 4 season country and you can travel there all months of year, generally the spring (mid-March TO May) and fall (September to mid-November) are considered the best times to visit as the weather is mild and comfortable, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Features of Top tour operators & Travel agencies in Iran:
When you want book a tour from a travel agency in Iran, you should consider and check out that it be licensed by the Ministry of Cultural, Heritage, Tourism and Handicraft of Iran. It should be responsible in short time, get to know all travel routes of Iran and can get the best advice to choose a travel package based on traveler’s interest and budget. also it can support you during your trip all the time. A top travel agency applies your visa in a short time and provide services in high quality.
Shidrokh travel is a local tour operator who offer individual tours, private and small group tours in Iran. Our company composed of experienced staffs and professional tour experts. We provide all travel services such as visa, tour packages, transfer, Iran tour consulting, travel insurance. We offer the best tours of Iran according to your personal taste and our suggestions to create a memorable trip.
Travel insurance in Iran
Travelers need to have travel insurance for entering to Iran. There are some Iranian insurance company that offer travel insurance with complete cover in reasonable price. The price for insurance calculate based on period of travel, age of travelers. Shidrokh Travel provide you an Iran travel insurance that gives you full protection whenever and wherever you need during your Iran trip. Get your travel insurance to secure your trip and travel with peacefulness.
Hospitals and medical centers in Iran
If you always concern about sickness in travel, don’t worry at all. In Iran there are many modern hospital and medical centers, also in all of roads and routs there are emergency center and urgent. Iran has many good doctors and medical experts. Iran is a medical hub in the Middle East, especially the city of Shiraz.
Hijab in Iran
Like any other country in the world, most of the general laws in Iran have to be followed by travelers. As an Islamic country, there are laws regarding women’s clothing in Iran that must be followed by travelers as well. All women regardless of their nationality are obliged to follow these rules requiring them to wear hijab; however, the rules are not as strict for travelers and their unfamiliarity with Hijab is taken into account. Note that women are required to wear Hijab as soon as they get off the plane in an Iranian airport. Men and women are only required to follow the dress code in Iran in public areas. Therefore, travelers and locals can freely choose their clothing when they’re inside someone’s house or in a hotel room.
Don’t trust media to choose your dress for traveling to Iran, check out photos of travelers who have traveled to Iran before
Women’s dress code:
Wearing a headscarf is mandatory, however, covering all of your hair is not important. You can wear scarf, shawl and hat.
wear loose tunics or coats that cover your lower waist and have long sleeves, Don’t wear sleeveless or short-sleeved shirts/coats/tunics. Long pants/leggings and skirt covering legs until the ankles are fine.
Wearing a Chador is mandatory for females in religious monuments.
Men dress code:
There is no limitation on men hairstyle or hat type, Don’t wear sleeveless shirts. Don’t wear shorts
Iran Travel consulting
Shidrokh Travel Company based in Shiraz, local tour operator in Iran tours, is ready to advise you about your trip to Iran. You can ask our professional and experienced travel experts for organizing a complete itinerary and get advice about the type of destinations, travel rules and any information you need to know before travelling to Iran.
We do all of enquiries for all Iran travel services, visa, hotel reservation, insurance, domestic flight and Iran tour packages in short time.
Travel book about Iran
There are many books writing about traveling to Iran and Iran trip routs, that have many information about Iran attractions, accommodations, vehicles, historical and cultural places, religion, travel tips, food, clothing, anthropology, touristic routes, otherwise Iran has many hidden attractions and off the beaten path destinations. but I must say that Shidrokh Travel Company is like a complete travel book that give you many information about Iran, we give you free consultation and arrange your travel plan. Don’t hesitate to contact us and our professional experts answer in short time.
Iran people
Iranian people are world well-known for their hospitality and kindness. The people are one of the Iran's highlights and attractions. Iran is a multi-ethnic country that has diverse ethnic groups with an old civilization background in the world. The largest group of people are Persians, after that Turks, Balooch, Kurds, Gilaki, Taleshi, Turkaman, Lor, Mazani, arab and Kermanji. all of them have their own language, dialect, clothing, food, and customs. When you travel to Iran, you enter the land of diverse historical and cultural attractions.
Customized and tailor made tour of Iran
Iran customized tour is one of the best tour packages for traveling to Iran because it is flexible to arrange according your requirements, interest and budget.
travelers can choose the type of vehicle, the duration of the trip to Iran, the type of accommodations (traditional or modern hotels). Customized tour organizes for individuals or group and tourists determine type of trip and activities. In Iran you can experience various activities, we can arrange your adventurous tours, historical & cultural tours, cooking tours, rural & Nomad tours,
Don't hesitate to contact our travel expert to get consultation and advice about Iran trip.
How is money exchange in Iran?
due to international sanctions, it is not easy to use an international credit card in Iran, and some cards do not exist at all, but in Iran, daily expenses are not too expensive for tourists. It is better to bring cash and exchange your currency in the exchange offices, sometimes people change money in the markets, which usually has a higher price. Iran's currency is Rial, which is less valuable than dollars and euros. Our travel consultant helps you for exchange the money.
Driving in Iran
In Iran, driving has its own rules and standards, and in the streets of big cities, there is a bit of traffic and rush in driving. Shidrokh travel strive to choose a secure transfer for you with a good car and experienced drive. In Iran, you should not be in a hurry to cross the street. Be sure to pass with a guide because motorcycles usually pass fast.
Iran’s International exhibitions and trade fairs
Iran’s International exhibitions and trade fairs are a great chance to get familiar with new startups and discover the best investment opportunities in Iran and making deals with Iranian companies.
Best International exhibitions are taking place in Tehran, Shiraz, Isfahan, Mashhad, and Tabriz.
Shidrokh Travel company with a good knowledge base in Mice tourism, Marketing strategies, Brand management is delightfully waiting for interested companies, offices, and businessmen to give them useful and efficient information. We provide you with all services, including visa, transfer, hotel booking, interpreter, etc.
Iran’s tour guides
Shidrokh Travel use professional and experienced tour guides, multilingual guides in English, Germany, Russian, Chinese, Spanish, French, Japanese, Arabic, etc. These tour guides are very expert in their work, give you useful information. They have passed specialized courses on travel and tours under the supervision of the Ministry of Cultural, Heritage and Tourism.
Tipping in Iran
In Iran you don’t have to tip, but it is common in some places like restaurants, cafes, taxi drivers or other servicing jobs. Giving tip can result to better services and help tourism industry.
Top rated attractions of Iran
Undoubtedly, Iran is one of the ancient countries with rich history, civilization, culture, architecture and great geographical location. You will experience beautiful and amazing attractions while traveling to Iran. Iran is home to many historical monuments such as Chaghazanbil ziggurat in susa dating back to 4000 years ago, Persepolis, passaged and etc. in Iran you can find many mosques with wonderful architecture where you can see Persian architectural elements such as beautiful colors, amazing tile working, domes. In Isfahan there are splendid mosques. Iranians know the mosques as God’s house, so they tried to build the mosques in the best way. One of the best Iran mosques is located in Shiraz, it is Nasiralmolk mosque that is known as pink mosque where you can see an amazing scene created by mixing lights with vivid colors that’s why There is a great location to take beautiful photos.
Drinking alcohol in Iran
Iran is an Islamic country so drinking alcohol is legally banned. However, In Iran, various types of malt drinks or non-alcoholic beer are popular. It’s a kind of halal carbonated beverage that is derived from the extract of barley sprouts and also you can try many traditional drinks, herbal beverage and natural fruit juice.
The best foods in Iran
In Iran, there are many various cuisines that known as national dishes. Every city has its own special dish based on its tradition and culture. The dishes you try in most of Iranian restaurants including different types of Kebab, Abgoosht, Qorme Sabzi, Fesenjun, Kalam polo, Zereshk Polo, Kashk Bademjoon, etc. but if you are looking for ancient and organic plats, you can find them in traditional accommodations, villages or with nomadic people.
Restaurants in Iran?
In Iran you can find both modern and traditional restaurants, in big cities of Iran such as Tehran, Isfahan, Tabriz, Mashhad, Shiraz, Yazd where you can find modern restaurants and cafes and serve a variety of Iranian and international foods. Of course, along with modern restaurants, there are also traditional restaurants.
Some interesting things about Persian culture you see in Iran
Iran is a country where you can see both traditional and modern behaviors, there are several old and traditional behavior that you see in Iran specially in small communities. One of them is Tarof, it is a way to show politeness and kindness.
Tarof is the most common in hospitality settings, where guests are being served by a host or hostess. When presented with food or drink, it is customary to politely turn it down at first, the same as with a gift. However, no matter how many times you decline, the tea cup will be placed in front of you and your plate will be piled high with delicious food.
Using tarof in the payment to service personnel, such as a taxi driver, might sound confusing at first. when the trip is completed and payment is offered, it is customary for the taxi driver to refuse. “Ghabeleh shoma ra nadareh” (for you, it is free), but you should pay because it is to show the highest respect and utmost politeness to everyone. You can see respect culture everywhere especially for elder persons and women. Iranians usually start their morning and their works with the name of God.
Another culture is bargaining and getting discounts in bazaars. But you cannot request for discount everywhere or for all things. In Iran there are many interesting cultures that you experience them in your trip.
Religion in Iran
The main religion of most Iranians is Shia Islam, and this has made us witness the most beautiful mosques in the world in Iran. The importance of Iranians to God and religion has led to the construction of beautiful mosques. Among the other religions in Iran, we can mention Suni Islam, which exists in cities such as Sistan & Baluchestan, Kurdistan, Golestan province, and in small cities of Lar. In Iran, due to the coexistence of religions, we witness other religions such as Christianity, Zoroastrianism, Judaism, etc. Christians have a church in Isfahan called Vank cathedral that is one of the most beautiful churches in Iran. Zoroastrian religion, which is the ancient religion of Iranians and has fire temples in Yazd, Isfahan, Tehran and Shiraz. The Jewish religion which have synagogues in Iran. In shiraz city there is a street that you can 4 different religious place there.
Iran's important festivals
In Iran, there are many traditional and interesting festivals that are derived from ancient ritual and religious cultures. If you interested in to take part in these festival, consider them in your travel plan and date of your trip. You can take advantage of it by adjusting your travel plan.
The most important festivals include:
Nowruz, which is the Iranian new year festival and dates back to ancient time. It starts in early spring and its holiday is about 2 weeks.
Saffron harvest festival: saffron is a valuable and precious flower in Iran. Its harvest done by hand with a special ceremony.
The Iranian Pomegranate Festival is held in fall season in most cities of Iran. In this festival You will try natural pomegranate juice and organic pomegranate products.
Ashura and Muharram ceremony is a religious festival that is including tazie show, Nakhlgardani and cooking of delicious food, this festival is held in all cities of Iran but you can see the best ones in religious cities of Mashhad, Qom and especially Yazd and attracts many tourists.
The rose-water ceremony is held in early spring in the cities of Kashan and Meymand of Fars, where are the main centers of Iranian rose water. Flowers are grown in the plains and foothills and essential oils are extracted. The smell of rose is intoxicating and it is exported to European countries, especially France, to make perfume.
Yalda, which is on the first night of winter and one of the most beautiful Iranian ceremonies, is held all over Iran on the longest night of the year and it has several thousand years old.
Sedeh festival is held on the 10th day of Bahman month in winter (Iranian calendar) and is an ancient Zoroastrian ceremony.
Chaharshanbeh Suri, which is held on the last night of the Wednesday before Nowruz by setting up a fire, and it is believed that jumping from the fire brings good luck and is an ancient ceremony.
Where buy Persian carpet in Iran?
Iran is the land of traditional and hand-woven carpets in the world, travelers usually can purchase various types of carpets such as silk, Qashqai, local, Bakhtiari, Baloochi, Turkmen, Khansari, Tabrizi, Kashani, Shirazi in high quality in traditional markets, especially, Vakil Bazaar of Shiraz, Isfahan, Yazd, Kashan, Tehran and other cities. Shidrokh travel works closely with trusted carpet sellers and importers, ensuring access to diverse, authentic options for every taste and budget. Contact us to buy a good carpet for souvenir
Iranian saffron
One of the important and popular souvenirs of Iran is pure Persian saffron that is renowned for its exquisite flavor, vibrant color, and unparalleled quality, however, keeping saffron is important for its preservation and longevity. Shidrokh travel help you to buy high-quality saffron in your trip to Iran.
Iranian herbal teas
One of the popular beverage in Iran is tea that sometimes is served 3 times a day in Iranian houses however you can taste also various type of herbal teas in Iran that the herbal and plants find in plain and mountains such as Zagros and Alborz. These herbal teas are generally organic and very good for health. For example, thyme tea is good for cholesterol and infection, chamomile for relaxation and saffron tea for freshness. One of the special herbal teas that find in Shiraz city is BaharNaranj (sour orange blossom) and is good for relaxation.
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