Tehran, Iran 5 Day Itinerary

Tehran, Iran: 5-Day Travel Itinerary (Markdown Format)

Day 1: Arrival & Acclimation

  • Arrive at Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKIA).
  • Transfer to your hotel. Recommended hotels for tourists: Espinas Palace Hotel, Tehran Grand Hotel, or Parsian Azadi Hotel.
  • Lunch: Try traditional Persian dishes like Kabab, Dizis, and Ash at a local restaurant such as Saba or Abbas.
  • Relax and rest. Due to the time difference, you may need some time to adjust.
  • Evening stroll: Visit Niavaran Palace Complex (closed on Mondays) for an insight into Iran’s royal past.
  • Dinner: Enjoy a meal at Naranjestan Garden Restaurant, known for its beautiful garden setting and traditional cuisine.

Day 2: Exploring Tehran’s History & Culture

  • Breakfast: Have breakfast at your hotel or try local pastries like Nan-e Sangak or Baghlava at a nearby bakery.
  • Morning visit: Head to the National Museum of Iran to learn about Persia’s rich history and culture.
  • Lunch: Grab lunch at Zafaraniyeh, serving a variety of delicious dishes.
  • Afternoon visit: Explore Golestan Palace and its museums, including the Jewelry Museum.
  • Evening visit: Climb Azari Tower for panoramic views of Tehran and visit the adjacent Ab-o-Atash Fire Temple.
  • Dinner: Enjoy a meal at Tupchal Restaurant, offering traditional Persian dishes in a cozy setting.

Day 3: Modern Tehran & Green Spaces

  • Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at your hotel or try local breakfast foods like Shole Zard and Nan-e Berenj at a nearby eatery.
  • Morning visit: Head to the Milad Tower for stunning views of Tehran and learn about Iran’s technological advancements.
  • Lunch: Have lunch at Eataly, an Italian restaurant with a beautiful view of Milad Tower.
  • Afternoon visit: Visit Jamshidieh Park, the largest park in Tehran, or Toopkhaneh Garden, a traditional Persian garden.
  • Evening visit: Explore Sa’d Abad Palace Complex, which showcases different styles of Iranian architecture.
  • Dinner: Try modern Persian cuisine at Café Naderi or Si Tandoor, both located in the Sa’d Abad area.

Day 4: Shopping & Local Experiences

  • Breakfast: Have breakfast at your hotel or try local street food like Sabzi Khordan and Kebab Koobideh at a nearby street vendor.
  • Morning visit: Visit the Grand Bazaar of Tehran for shopping traditional Iranian goods like carpets, spices, and jewelry.
  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the bazaar area.
  • Afternoon visit: Head to Niavaran Cultural Historical Complex, which includes the Sahebqaranieh Mansion and Museum of Contemporary Art.
  • Evening visit: Explore the vibrant Azadi Square area and try Persian ice cream (Sharbat) at a nearby shop.
  • Dinner: Dine at Naderi Traditional Restaurant, known for its live traditional music performances.

Day 5: Departure

  • Breakfast: Have breakfast at your hotel or explore local eateries before heading to the airport.
  • Transfer to IKIA and depart.

Tips & Things to Know:

  • Dress modestly, respecting Iranian cultural norms (women must cover their hair and wear loose clothing that hides the shape of their body).
  • Business hours may vary, with many shops closing in the afternoon. Plan accordingly.
  • English is not widely spoken, so having a guide or learning some basic Persian phrases can be helpful.
  • Iran’s currency is the Iranian Rial (IRR). You can exchange money at banks or authorized exchange offices. Credit cards are not widely accepted.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Snapp and Tap30 are available and affordable.
  • Always carry a valid ID and passport with you.
  • Enjoy your trip to Tehran, and don’t hesitate to ask locals for help or recommendations!