Iranian Culture and Heritage Tour

Upon your arrival at Shiraz International Airport (SYZ), our friendly representative will be there to meet and greet you. You’ll then be comfortably transferred to your hotel to settle in and relax. Note: If you are arriving at Tehran International Airport, we can arrange a domestic flight ticket and airport transfer upon request.

Accommodation:

• Arg 3-Star Hotel (or a similar option in Shiraz)

Included Meals:

• Breakfast

Morning Exploration

• Start your day with a visit to the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque). Its stunning interior, bathed in a kaleidoscope of colors, is a true masterpiece of light and design.
• Next, see the Karim Khan Citadel from the outside, an impressive fortress built during the Zand Dynasty.
• Enjoy time at the vibrant Vakil Bazaar, bustling with shops, beautiful courtyards, and an ancient caravanserai—a perfect spot for shopping and soaking in local culture.

Afternoon Cultural Experience

• Visit the serene Tomb of Hafez, dedicated to one of Persia's most beloved poets. Experience the tranquility of this garden tomb and connect with the beauty of Persian literature and poetry.

Hospitality Experience

• In the evening, immerse yourself in Persian culture by preparing dinner with a welcoming Shirazi family. Learn traditional recipes, hear captivating stories, and enjoy the joy of sharing a home-cooked meal.

Accommodation:

• Arg 3-Star Hotel (or a similar option in Shiraz)

Included Meals:

• Breakfast and Dinner

Today, we embark on a full-day drive toward the fascinating city of Yazd, the first and only city in Iran to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety. Renowned for its ingenious wind catchers, ancient qanats, Zoroastrian heritage, fine silk, and unique sweets, Yazd offers a glimpse into the heart of Persian heritage.

Stops Along the Way

• Persepolis (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Explore the legendary former capital of Darius the Great, founded in 518 BC. This awe-inspiring ancient marvel stood as the pinnacle of architectural grandeur in its time.

• Necropolis (Naqsh-e Rostam): Visit the majestic royal tombs carved into towering cliffs, the resting place of four great Achaemenid kings.

• Pasargadae (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Discover the Tomb of Cyrus the Great and the former capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Though less imposing than Persepolis, Pasargadae offers remarkable views and a profound connection to Iran’s ancient history.

Arrival in Yazd

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and prepare for a memorable experience in this enchanting mud-brick city.

Accommodation:

• Ketrova 3-Star Hotel (or a similar option in Yazd)

Included Meals:

• Breakfast

Discover the Desert Jewel

Yazd, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Iran, stands as a living testament to the ingenuity of desert architecture. Its skyline is adorned with minarets and wind towers that cool homes during the scorching summer months. As the center of Iran’s Zoroastrian community, Yazd promises a captivating day of exploration.

Highlights of the Day

• Tower of Silence (Dakhmeh):
  Discover the ancient Zoroastrian ritual site where bodies were placed to avoid polluting the sacred elements of earth, water, and fire. Learn about the bridge of Chinvat, believed to be the place of judgment for the souls of the departed.

• Zoroastrian Fire Temple (Atashkadeh):
  Witness a sacred flame that has been burning for over 1,500 years, symbolizing spiritual purity.

• Mehrban Polad Museum of Documents and Manuscripts:
  Explore rare historical treasures, including ancient copies of the Avesta and exquisite manuscripts. Enjoy traditional Zoroastrian refreshments at this charming museum located in the Zoroastrian neighborhood.

• Amir Chakhmaq Square:
  Marvel at the impressive Hussainiya, with its three levels of perfectly proportioned alcoves, one of Yazd’s most iconic landmarks.

• Sahib al-Zaman Zurkhaneh:
  Experience the world’s oldest sport at this historic Zurkhaneh, celebrated as one of Yazd’s largest athletic venues.

• Jame Mosque of Yazd:
  Admire the intricate tilework and towering minarets, the tallest in Iran.

• Fahadan District:
  Wander through the narrow alleys and mud-brick architecture of this ancient neighborhood.

• Dowlat Abad Garden (UNESCO World Heritage Site):
  Stroll through this serene garden, shaded by ancient cypress trees. Marvel at the graceful wind tower, the tallest in Iran, and the vibrant stained-glass windows of the 18th-century hexagonal pavilion.

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Experiences

• Calligraphy Art: Witness the elegance and tradition of Persian calligraphy.
• Traditional Gymnasium (Zurkhaneh): Immerse yourself in this unique athletic and cultural experience.

Accommodation:

• Ketrova 3-Star Hotel (or similar in Yazd)

Included Meals:

• Breakfast

Morning Exploration of a UNESCO Heritage Qanat

Before departing Yazd, we’ll visit one of its ancient Qanats, a sophisticated water management system recognized by UNESCO for its remarkable engineering and historical importance. This unique invention has sustained desert communities for centuries.

Discover the Ancient Town of Meybod

Our journey continues to Meybod, a desert town characterized by its monochromatic brick architecture and strategic location on an ancient trade route. Here, we’ll uncover several fascinating historical landmarks:

• Narin Castle:
  Explore this 2,000-year-old fortress dating back to the Sassanid era, offering a glimpse into ancient desert fortifications.

• Shah Abbasi Caravanserai:
  Visit this beautifully preserved desert inn from the Safavid era, featuring verandahs, shaded passageways, and nearly 100 rooms, now partly transformed into artisan workshops.

• Ice-House:
  Marvel at the ingenious thick-clay structure and underground chamber that kept ice and food cool even during the scorching desert summers.

• Pigeon Tower:
  Learn about the fascinating role of this ancient structure in agricultural practices, specifically its use in fertilizing farmlands.

Arrival in Isfahan

We will continue our journey to Isfahan, where we'll check into a charming hotel and prepare for the wonders of this iconic city.

Accommodation:

• Traditional 3-Star Hotel (or similar in Isfahan)

Included Meals:

• Breakfast

Morning Visit: Chehel Sotun Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Our journey begins at Chehel Sotun Palace, a stunning pavilion set in a lush park with a tranquil reflecting pool. Built by Shah Abbas II for court receptions and entertainment, the palace features a portico supported by twenty slender wooden columns, which beautifully reflect in the water. Inside, you’ll marvel at soaring halls adorned with frescoes, mosaics, and exquisite paintings—the Hall of Mirrors is particularly breathtaking.

Traditional Persian Art Experiences

Next, immerse yourself in two iconic elements of Iranian craftsmanship:

• Miniature Art:
  Explore this intricate and vibrant traditional painting style, dating back to the 13th century, which beautifully captures historical events, poetic tales, and scenes from daily life.
• Carpet Weaving:
  Experience the artistry of this ancient craft, where skilled artisans weave intricate designs using natural fibers such as wool and silk, creating rugs that are prized for their quality and heritage.

Exploration of Naghsh-e Jahan Square (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

This 17th-century masterpiece is one of the largest public squares in the world and a hallmark of Persian architecture. Here, we’ll visit:

• Shah Mosque: A renowned example of Islamic architecture with magnificent tilework and soaring minarets.
• Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque: Known as the "Ladies' Mosque," it features a mesmerizing domed ceiling, where the interplay of light creates the stunning image of a peacock.
• Ali Qapu Palace: Discover its beautifully crafted music rooms and stand on the balconies where Safavid kings once watched polo matches in the square below.
• Qeisarieh Bazaar: A vibrant market where local artisans offer pottery, enamelware, jewelry, and intricately inlaid board games.

Evening Stroll to Si-o-Se Pol (33-Bridge)

As the day winds down, we’ll visit the Si-o-Se Pol Bridge, a stunning example of Persian architecture and one of Iran’s most iconic bridges, beautifully illuminated at night.

Accommodation:

• Traditional 3-Star Hotel (or similar in Isfahan)

Included Meals:

• Breakfast

Morning: Farewell to Isfahan with a Visit to Khajou Bridge

After breakfast, we check out and make a final stop at the stunning Khajou Bridge, a masterpiece of Persian architecture known for its intricate tilework and brick artistry. This historic bridge stands as a testament to Isfahan’s architectural grandeur.

Onward to Kashan

We proceed to the charming town of Kashan, renowned for its rosewater production, textiles, and ceramic craftsmanship.

Sightseeing in Kashan:

• Fin Garden (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  One of the most beautiful and tranquil Persian gardens, featuring elegant water channels flowing through the lush grounds and central pavilion. Don't miss the chance to buy rosewater, a local specialty, just outside the garden.

• Tabatabaei Historical House
  Explore this exquisite example of traditional Iranian residential architecture, with intricate carvings, stained-glass windows, and serene courtyards.

Continue to Tehran

Following our visit to Kashan, we continue our journey to Tehran, where we settle into our hotel.

Accommodation:

• Amatis 3-Star Hotel (or a similar one in Tehran)

Included Meals:

• Breakfast

Morning

Our day begins with a visit to the Golestan Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site), a stunning complex built during the Qajar Dynasty. Surrounded by tranquil pools and lush gardens, the palace showcases exquisite tilework, ornate halls, and elegant architectural details.

Tehran Grand Bazaar

We continue with a leisurely stroll around the Tehran Grand Bazaar, the second-largest traditional market in Iran after Tabriz. It's a vibrant hub of commerce filled with shops selling textiles, spices, jewelry, and more.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, we visit the National Museum of Iran, home to a remarkable collection of artifacts dating from 5000 BC to the early Islamic period. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the diverse and rich history of Iran.

Accommodation:

• Amatis 3-Star Hotel (or a similar one in Tehran)

Included Meals:

• Breakfast

Our representative will provide your transfer to Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) at the scheduled time, ensuring a smooth journey for your departure. Safe travels and we hope to welcome you back to Iran soon!