Qom Iran 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Qom

Morning:

  • Arrival in Qom: You can fly into Shahid Sadeghi Airport or travel by train or bus. Taxis are readily available for your convenience.
  • Hotel Check-in: Check into a comfortable hotel such as the Qom International Hotel, located in the city center with easy access to all major attractions.
  • Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Persian breakfast at your hotel or head to Kofte Sabzi (herb balls) and Faloodeh (Persian noodle water) at local eateries like “Pasalar”.

Mid-Morning:

  • Visit the Holy Shrine of Fatima Masumeh: This is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Shia Muslims worldwide. The architecture and peaceful atmosphere are truly mesmerizing.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at local restaurant: Try “Ash-e Reshteh” (noodle soup) at “Rafiali” or “Gheimeh Sabzi” (herb stew) at “Ghelamco”.
  • Explore Bazaar-e Bozorg: Wander through the sprawling bazaar, where you can shop for traditional Iranian goods, from Persian carpets to spices and local delicacies.

Evening:

  • Dinner at local restaurant: Enjoy “Kebab Barg” (grilled meat on skewers) at “Barg Kebab” or “Tahchin” (Persian rice with saffron and chicken) at “Golestan”.
  • Stroll along the Zayandeh Rood River: Take an evening stroll along the river, visit Ali ibn Hamzeh Holy Shrine located on its banks.

Day 2: Qom’s Cultural and Historical Sites

Morning:

  • Breakfast at hotel or local restaurant: Start your day with a hearty breakfast.
  • Visit Jame Mosque of Amir Al-Mumenin: One of the oldest mosques in Iran, dating back to the 9th century, it showcases beautiful Persian architecture.
  • Gonbad-e Soltanieh: This 13th-century mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural marvel with intricate tilework and stunning cobalt blue domes.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at local restaurant: Try “Fesenjan” (pomegranate stew) or “Khoresht Gheymeh” (split pea and meat stew) at a local eatery.
  • Isfahan Aflatoun Museum: Learn about the history of the Afifount, an ancient Qom invention, used for measuring capacity and time.
  • Visit Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse: This historical bathhouse offers a glimpse into the daily life of Qom’s residents in the past.

Evening:

  • Dinner at local restaurant: Savor your last evening meal with “Kebab Kabob Joojeh” (grilled chicken) or “Adas Polo” (lentil rice) at a popular restaurant like “Mosafer Khane”.
  • Stroll along the Zayandeh Rood River: Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and watch the beautiful reflection of the city lights on the river.

Day 3: Day Trip to Natanz

Morning:

  • Breakfast at hotel or local restaurant: Fuel up for the day trip with a tasty breakfast.
  • Travel to Natanz (approx. 1 hour drive): Rent a car or take a shared taxi to visit this nearby city.
  • Pirnia Historical House: Explore this traditional Qajar-era house, now converted into a museum showcasing local artifacts and handicrafts.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at local restaurant in Natanz: Try local specialties like “Ash Reshteh” or “Kebab Koobideh”.
  • Natanz Underground City: Visit this secret nuclear facility, now open to tourists for a unique and educational experience.

Evening:

  • Return to Qom: Drive back to Qom and spend the evening at leisure.
  • Farewell Dinner: Enjoy your final meal in Qom at your favorite restaurant from the past few days or try something new.

Tips:

  • Dress modestly to respect local customs and traditions.
  • Learn basic Persian phrases to better interact with locals.
  • Carry cash (Iranian Rials) as credit cards may not be widely accepted.
  • Always ask permission before taking photographs, especially at religious sites.