Classic Iran
Suggested Itinerary
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Overview
Home to one of the oldest civilisations on earth, Iran can boast a cultural legacy of unparalleled scope. The lands of Cyrus the Great and the powerful Achaemenids, the Persia of antiquity once held sway over all the known world, from North Africa to the lands west of the Indus, before going on to play a leading role in a period that many saw as the golden age of Islam. This comprehensive journey into the heart of this fascinating country takes you across a historical land-scape that stretches ...
Home to one of the oldest civilisations on earth, Iran can boast a cultural legacy of unparalleled scope. The lands of Cyrus the Great and the powerful Achaemenids, the Persia of antiquity once held sway over all the known world, from North Africa to the lands west of the Indus, before going on to play a leading role in a period that many saw as the golden age of Islam. This comprehensive journey into the heart of this fascinating country takes you across a historical land-scape that stretches back to the beginnings of the Persian Empire and beyond. You’ll journey from the Alborz Mountains and deep into the deserts of central Iran, visiting the fire temples of Yazd and the beautiful gardens of Kashan. You’ll take in the poetry and culture of Shiraz and enjoy the hospitality of a family from Faragheh Village in a village homestay. Amongst the mud brick houses and meandering alleyways of Abyaneh you will then escape to a timeless world of tradition, where you will spend an evening in the company of a people who’s lifestyles have changed little in generations. After seeing the stunning Islamic bridges and architecture of Isfahan, the journey then fittingly ends back in Tehran, a city steeped in the traditions and history of the old and new Persia.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Suggested Itinerary
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN TEHRAN
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN TEHRAN
Arrive in Tehran and transfer to your hotel. The country's largest city, Tehran bears the distinction of being Iran's 32nd national capital. Filled with a wealth of mosques, churches, Zoroastrian fire temples and synagogues, the city lies sandwiched between the snowcapped mountains of the Alborz ranges and the baking heat of the central desert which lies to its south.
DAY 2: TEHRAN
DAY 2: TEHRAN
A full day's sightseeing tour of the Iranian capital includes a visit to some of the city's most impressive buildings including the majestic Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest of Tehran's historic monuments. You will also get a chance to visit the city's impressive National Museum, which combines the historic and cultural treasures of both the Archaeological Museum and the National Arts Museum and there is an option to visit the Contemporary Art Museum.
DAY 3: TEHRAN - KASHAN
DAY 3: TEHRAN - KASHAN
Once a centre for high quality pottery and tile production, the historic oasis city of Kashan was also an important leisure destination for the Safavi kings and the beautiful gardens of Bagh-e-Fin were specifically designed to represent classic versions of Persian paradise. Created by Shah Abbas I, it is one of the most famous gardens in Iran and is filled with a wonderful collection of Safavid, Zandiyeh and Qajar buildings. There will also be a chance to visit the bazaar and the traditional bath house, before taking in the views of the city from the roof of a converted hammam.
DAY 4: KASHAN - NA'IN - MEYBOD - YAZD
DAY 4: KASHAN - NA'IN - MEYBOD - YAZD
Leaving Kashan behind this morning you drive on through the desert, stopping first at the major carpet making centre of Na'in. Home to the 10th century Jama Mosque, there will be a chance to visit the mosque and the nearby anthropological museum, before continuing on to the important Zoroastrian shrine of Chak Chak. Hidden deep within the desert, this small shrine is one of the most revered sites in the country, attracting thousands of pilgrims from across Iran and India. Back on the main road, you head next for the famous ceramics town of Meybord, before a late afternoon arrival in Yazd.
DAY 5: YAZD
DAY 5: YAZD
Yazd was a major centre of Zoroastrian thought even after the Arab conquests of Persia. With a history dating back over 3,000 years, it contains some of the finest examples of traditional Persian desert architecture left in the country and a tour of the city begins with a visit to the remarkable Zoroastrian, Towers of Silence. You will also visit the fire temple, before moving on to discover the beautifully restored set-ting of the Water Museum. An afternoon walk then takes in the high city walls, the Jama Mosque and Alexander's Prison, which today houses a number of craft and tea shops.
DAY 6: YAZD - FARAGHE
DAY 6: YAZD - FARAGHE
Departing Yazd this morning you drive through the desert landscapes to the Bavanat Valley, where a walk up into the mountains provides some spectacular views out across the valleys, with their small, lush pockets of fertile oases. Arriving at Faragheh Village in time for lunch, this afternoon you then head into the valley to meet up with the local nomads. Spending the afternoon in the presence of these timeless people provides a rare opportunity to learn something of their culture and lifestyles, before returning to your homestay in time for a traditional meal by the fire.
DAY 7: FARAGHE - PASGARDAE - PERSEPOLIS - SHIRAZ
DAY 7: FARAGHE - PASGARDAE - PERSEPOLIS - SHIRAZ
There will be time for a walk around the village before leaving for the ancient site of Pasgardae, the capital of Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Persian Empire. The earliest known example of Achaemenid architecture, the city remains a stunning testimony to the artistry of the early Persian civilisation. Then it is on to Persepolis, the great capital of the Achaemenid Empire, founded by Darius I and destroyed nearly 200 years later by Alexander the Great. Before leaving you'll pay a visit to the spectacular Sassanid necropolis at Naqsh-e-Rustam, final resting place of Darius himself. Arrive in Shiraz this evening.
DAY 8: SHIRAZ
DAY 8: SHIRAZ
A city of poets and gardens, Shiraz revels in its importance as a centre of Persian culture. Beginning with a wander through the traditional Qahqai bazaar and into the courtyard of the Shah Cheragh Shrine, you then move on to the Nasir al Molk Mosque, where you can enjoy the splendour of its tile work and stained glass, before taking in the blooms of the Narenjestan Gardens and Palace. Back in central Shiraz, you then visit the Vakil Mosque and Bazaar and the immense Citadel of Karim Khan, before ending the day at the tomb of Hafez, one of Shiraz's most celebrated poet.
DAY 9: SHIRAZ - ISFAHAN
DAY 9: SHIRAZ - ISFAHAN
A long drive north today gets us into Isfahan late this afternoon. An Iranian proverb once described Isfahan as "...half of the world" and, indeed, this stunning city was once one of the largest anywhere on earth. Home to some truly exceptional examples of Iranian and Islamic architecture, its centrepiece is the magnificent Naqshe e Jahan Square, which provides the backdrop for an ice cream and an evening stroll through the bazaar later.
DAY 10: ISFAHAN
DAY 10: ISFAHAN
An exploration of the huge Naqshe e Jahan Square today provides an opportunity to explore one of the largest city squares on the planet. Surrounded on three sides by the exquisite Imam and Sheikh Loftallah Mosque and the Ali Qapu palace, this beautiful World Heritage Site covers an area of nearly 90,000 square metres. A climb up to the balconies of the Ali Qapu Palace provides the perfect vantage point from which to take in the tiled majesty of this truly unforgettable site.
DAY 11: ISFAHAN
DAY 11: ISFAHAN
Heading south of the river towards Joffa this morning you will pay a visit to the Armenian quarter, to view the beautiful 17th century Vank Cathedral. A mix of Persian and western styling, the church's interiors display a stunning array of gilded carvings and delicate blue and gold paintwork and the attached museum and library is a treasure trove of invaluable Armenian and medieval European manuscripts. Then it is time to enjoy a walk across the city's famous bridges and take in the splendours of its celebrated palaces, which boast some of the finest architecture in the whole city.
DAY 12: ISFAHAN - ABYANEH
DAY 12: ISFAHAN - ABYANEH
Leaving behind the majesty of Isfahan you'll head next towards the ancient mud brick settlement of Abyaneh, one of the most picturesque villages in the country. Lying deep in a valley, the village is riddled with a twisting network of alleyways that add character to a setting that has changed little over the intervening centuries. Staunchly traditional, the village is one of the oldest in Iran and the local people still proudly wear their distinctive local dress.
DAY 13: ABYANEH - TEHRAN
DAY 13: ABYANEH - TEHRAN
The drive back to Tehran today stops at the Holy Shrine of Imam Khomeini, a fitting reminder of Iran's long road from the Achaemenid kings to the strict beliefs of Shia Islam. Still unfinished, this stunning mausoleum will be the centrepiece of a complex that covers some 20 square kilometres, housing a cultural centre, a university and room for more than 20,000 cars. Close by is the Behesht e Zahra, the cemetery dedicated to the thousands who died in the bloody Iran-Iraq War. A final afternoon is then spent on the slopes of the Alborz Mountains, in the prosperous resort of Darband.
DAY 14: DEPART TEHRAN
DAY 14: DEPART TEHRAN
Transfer to the airport today for your onward flight home.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Abbasi Hotel, Isfahan
Built during the reign of Shah Sultan Hussein in the 18th century, the four-star Abbasi Hotel was once a caravanserai meeting the needs of travelling merchants. The building is 300 years old and the historical background can be seen in the many paintings and patterns adorning the interior, as well as the artefacts in the beautiful gardens. Abbasi Hotel has 225 rooms and suites all featuring high-speed Wi-Fi, an LCD Television, a hair dryer, a safety box, coffee and tea facilities, a minibar and an en suite bathroom. Relax in the Sports Club complete with a pool, sauna, gym, Jacuzzi and massage service. You are spoilt for choice with multiple eateries including the Chehelsotoun Restaurant (holding up to 400 people), the Chashmandaz Restaurant located on the roof with a 360-degree view of Isfahan, the Naghsh-i-Jahan coffee shop offering sweet treats and pizza, the breakfast buffet room and the Sofrehkhaneh serving traditional Iranian cuisine.
Dad Hotel, Yazd
In the centre of Yazd close to the old city, the four star Dad Hotel is an historic building with a large courtyard garden. The site was first created in 1928 by Haj Abdolkhalegh Dad and then renovated in 2007 with the efforts of his son. The 88 rooms are traditionally decorated with coloured tiles and Persian carpets and categories include Single, Double/Twin, Triple, Family, Suite and Royal Suite. Each room has an en suite bathroom with a shower, satellite television, a hairdryer and Wi-Fi. There is a large restaurant which has a terrace for dining with panoramic views of Yazd or in more private, stylish tents. An additional restaurant is on the ground floor. Guests may also enjoy the underground pool (women AM, men PM), Spa, sauna, Jacuzzi and massage services.
Abyaneh Hotel, Abyaneh
Set atop a hill overlooking the historic Abyaneh village, near the city of Kashan, is the family run Abyaneh Hotel. Be welcomed into the small yet characterful hotel providing fantastic views of the surrounding valley and traditional Iranian hospitality. Constructed of local materials, the hotels red stone appearance reflects the precious red clay of the mountains used to create the mud houses of Abyaneh, the “Red Village”. The hotel has 25 rooms in total featuring a simple décor and plenty of natural light, with some rooms offering panoramic views. In the foyer is an excellent coffee bar for mingling with guests and a colourful souvenir shop for buying handicrafts. The spacious restaurant serves a taste of traditional Iranian cuisine whilst the green balcony is perfect for soaking in the stunning scarlet mountain landscape, beautifully merging with buildings of the same colour. Wi-Fi is available.
Espinas Hotel, Tehran
Espinas International Hotel is situated right in the heart of Tehran and is made up of 202 luxurious rooms, fitted with large en suite bathrooms with unparalleled city views. Each room comes equipped with a mini bar, hair dryer, tea and coffee station, telephone, TV and writing desk. The hotel has its own fitness centre, complete with steam room, sauna, pool and gym as well as a massage salon. There are also two restaurants in the Espinas, a traditional Iranian restaurant and a delightful Mediterranean restaurant that serves a variety of international dishes.
Saraye Ameriha Hotel, Kashan
The four star Saraye Ameriha Hotel is a historical and traditional house that was inhabited by the Ameriha family during the years of the great silk road. The building itself has been intricately designed and restored, and the rooms have a traditional Iranian decor. The courtyards are filled with plants and fountains, and the hotel itself is a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing. The rooms are fitted with either double or twin beds, en suite bathrooms and air conditioning. Guests can enjoy a tea or coffee in the small tea room, and meals are served in the hotel restaurant.
Faraghe Village Homestay, Faragheh
The property consists of a small compound with eight rooms. Rooms are very simple with two or three beds and decorated with a few local nomadic crafts. Facilities are shared, there are three bathrooms, both Western and Iranian style, with showers. Located about a kilometre from the village and set amongst pomegranate and plum plantations, guests can get involved with Faraghe’s rural way of life, by milking the cows at the next door farm yard if interested. All meals are sourced from local organic produce and there is also a traditional bread oven where you can help make fresh bread for breakfast if you wish. There is lots to do in the area from exploring the underground water channels and various walks to castles and waterfalls, to helping bring the crops in (depending on time of year).
Zandiyeh Hotel, Shiraz
The Zandiyeh Hotel is a new and well realised hotel in central Shiraz located very close to Kharim Khan Castle, it's a modern hotel, traditionally styled with all the amenities you'd expect and in a great location and is made up of 75 spacious rooms. WI-FI is available throughout the hotel but does come at additional cost. The hotel features a swimming pool and a very good traditional restaurant.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
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Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
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