Mashhad, Iran 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Sacred City

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with a visit to Imam Reza Shrine, the eighth imam of Twelver Shia Islam and one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Shia Muslims worldwide.
    • After visiting the shrine, head to the Astan Quds Razavi Museum which houses an extensive collection of religious artifacts, manuscripts, and ancient coins.

  • Afternoon:

    • Lunch at Hadik Restaurant, famous for its traditional Persian cuisine, particularly its Khoresht Gheymeh (a stew made with split peas, lamb or beef, and various herbs).
    • Visit the Takieh Jehan Numa (the Friday Mosque), a masterpiece of Islamic architecture dating back to the 10th century.
    • Explore the Nader Shah Museum, dedicated to Nader Shah Afshar, the Persian military leader who ruled Iran during the 18th century.

  • Evening:

    • Dinner at Shah Abassi Hotel Restaurant, offering a variety of Persian dishes with a view over the city.
    • Take a leisurely walk in Nader Shah Park or relax at the Khorshid Park.

Day 2: Cultural and Natural Exploration

  • Morning:

    • Head to Fajrabad Historical Complex, a beautifully restored village showcasing traditional Iranian architecture.
    • Visit Torqabeh Dome, an architectural marvel with intricate tilework.

  • Afternoon:

    • Lunch at Abbas Qoli Khan House Restaurant, serving traditional Mashhad cuisine in a historic setting.
    • Spend the afternoon at Khalid Nabi Cave or Soltaniyeh Dome, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Iran.

  • Evening:

    • Dinner at Tazeh Kand Restaurant, known for its delicious kebabs.
    • Enjoy a traditional Persian tea ceremony at Roshan Tapestry Factory.

Day 3: Shopping and Relaxation

  • Morning:

    • Visit Saraye Molla Javad Bazaar, the largest bazaar in Mashhad, for shopping traditional Iranian goods such as carpets, spices, and souvenirs.
    • Explore Shariati Park and its adjacent museums dedicated to Ayatollah Khomeini and the Islamic Revolution.

  • Afternoon:

    • Lunch at Negin Restaurant, offering a variety of Persian dishes in a modern setting.
    • Relax at Ferdowsi Pool & Water Park or take a dip in one of Mashhad’s thermal springs, such as Gonabad Thermal Spring.

  • Evening:

    • Farewell dinner at Shams-ol-Emareh Hotel Restaurant, offering a panoramic view of the city and delicious Persian cuisine.

Things to Know:

  • Mashhad is a conservative city, so it’s best to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Most businesses close for prayers during the five daily prayer times, so plan your day accordingly.
  • English is not widely spoken, so having a local guide or a translation app can be helpful.
  • Taxis and rickshaws are the most common forms of transportation within the city.
  • To get to Mashhad, you can fly into Mashhad International Airport or take a train from Tehran or other major cities in Iran.