Top 14 Must-See Historic Landmarks in Iran

Iranian travel blogging couple of Travestyle Matin and Parsa share their favorite places to visit in Iran.

There is no dearth of historic places to visit in Iran. Whether you’re traveling along the classic route or going off the beaten track, Iran’s history is bound to make an appearance on your journey.

Places to Visit in Iran

The history of Iran goes as far as 4000 BC, and some of the most famous places in Iran are its historic structures.

Most first-time visitors to Iran plan their trip along the central route, covering the cities of Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Yazd, and sometimes Kerman.

Historic Places to Visit in Iran in 10 Days

It’s safe to say that Iran’s top tourist attractions are mostly located along this trail. However, if you have some extra time, Khuzestan province in southwest Iran is where you’ll find some of the oldest settlements of Persia.

To guide you through a historic journey along Iran’s most famous cities, we’ve compiled a list of must-visit historical attractions you should include in your itinerary.

1. Persepolis

Persepolis is easily on top of the list of places to visit in Iran. It’s probably the most famous attraction in Iran that’s known around the world, and it’s also the reason many come to Iran in the first place.

Located around 60km from Shiraz and dating back to 520 BC, Persepolis was once the glorious ceremonial capital of the Persian empire.

This remarkable site was built and ruled by various Achaemenian kings over 150 years, reaching its pinnacle during the reign of Darius the Great. Although it was sacked and set on fire by Alexander the Great, you’ll be surprised to see how well Persepolis has been preserved.

Today, you need at least 2 hours to fully discover this iconic sight. Therefore, we’d highly suggest getting there early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.

2. Naqsh-e Jahan Square

There’s a reason they call this place a pattern of the world. European travelers such as Chardin have praised Esfahan and Naqsh-e Jahan Square in countless ways.

When the Safavid court chose Esfahan as its capital in the 15^th-16^th century, Naqsh-e Jahan was planned to be the centerpiece. Surrounded by two mosques, a palace, and the bazaar, the second largest square in the world is home to the jewels of the Safavid empire.

Visit the square on a summer evening, and you’ll witness how it has become a popular picnic spot for local Esfahanis. Grab a saffron ice cream and join the lively crowds.

3. Yazd Old Town

The old town of Yazd is surely the most famous place in Iran for a leisurely stroll. Give yourself a break from travel guides and immerse yourself in this beautiful adobe town.

Here, you can discover mud-brick buildings with stunning courtyards, cozy rooftop cafes, roofed alleyways, and ancient wooden doors.

4. Golestan Palace in Tehran

Golestan Palace in central Tehran stands as the best example of Qajar architecture in Iran. When the first Qajar king declared Tehran as his capital in the 18^th century, the construction of this residential palace began.

The architecture of Golestan Palace was heavily inspired by the travels of Qajar kings to Europe, particularly Naser-o-Din Shah. The Shams-Al Emarat palace was regarded as Iran’s tallest building at the time.

Today, this palace comprises a combination of different monuments, with tickets sold separately for each. The colorful tile work in the garden and the stunning mirror work in the Hall of Mirrors are top highlights.

5. Imam Mosque of Esfahan

Shah Abbas I enlisted the finest architects and calligraphers to create this stunning royal mosque during his 25 years of reign. However, he never lived long enough to see it completed.

The Imam Mosque of Esfahan represents the pinnacle of Safavid architecture, with exquisite tile work at its entrance drawing visitors inside, making it hard to leave.

6. Jameh Mosque of Yazd

Located in the heart of Yazd’s old town, the tall blue and turquoise minarets of the Jameh Mosque are visible from nearly every rooftop.

This mosque is home to the tallest minarets in the country, and its tile work is among the most famous in Iran.

7. Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse

In Iran, bathhouses served not only as places for cleansing but also as social gathering spots. Men and women would spend hours interacting in separate facilities.

Today, many of these historical bathhouses have transitioned into museums or restaurants. While the Ganj Ali Khan bathhouse in Kerman is the most complete representation of an Iranian bathhouse, the Sultan Amir Ahmad bathhouse in Kashan is considered the most beautiful. Make sure to explore the roof for a stunning view of Kashan after your visit.

8. Necropolis or Naqsh-e Rostam, Shiraz

On your way to Persepolis, it’s essential to make a stop at Naqsh-e Rostam to witness the Sassanid reliefs and the grand tombs of four Achaemenian kings.

Carved into the rock, the chambers are believed to be the tombs of Darius I, Darius II, Xerxes I, and Artaxerxes I.

9. Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Esfahan

Situated in Naqsh-e Jahan Square, just in front of the Ali Qapoo Palace, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque was designed for the women of Shah Abbas’s harem and was not accessible to the public.

Today, the interior of its double-shelled golden dome is one of the most photographed attractions in Iran, impressively designed without any minarets.

10. Nasir-ol Molk Mosque (Pink Mosque), Shiraz

This is undoubtedly the most Instagrammable place in Iran. Arrive early in the morning, and you’ll witness vibrant morning light dancing on the Persian carpets.

The mosque is renowned for its striking pink tile work, leading to its nickname, the Pink Mosque. Don’t forget to admire the fine example of Muqqarnas in the outer portal.

11. Tower of Silence, Yazd

Yazd houses the largest Zoroastrian population in Iran, making it essential to add at least one Zoroastrian attraction to your itinerary.

In accordance with Zoroastrian beliefs, soil is considered sacred and not meant to be contaminated by dead bodies. Historically, Zoroastrians took deceased bodies to mountaintops where they were exposed to the sun and scavenging birds.

While this ancient practice has been forgotten, you can visit the location of the Tower of Silence in Yazd, which also provides a great view of the city.

12. Shazdeh Garden of Kerman

The true meaning of an oasis is embodied in the Shazdeh Garden of Kerman. Nestled in the heart of a barren desert, this beautiful garden features fountains and flowing qanat water.

While many locals come here for picnics, the garden and its small Qajar palace are well worth the visit.

13. Khajoo Bridge, Esfahan

Among Esfahan’s top attractions are several bridges, with the Khajoo Bridge—constructed circa 1650—being the finest of them all.

In addition to its stunning architecture, the bridge serves as a gathering point for locals. It’s common to find old men singing beneath the bridge around sunset.

Unfortunately, it’s been years since water has flowed continuously beneath the bridge due to drought, but if you’re lucky, you might see it flowing in springtime.

14. Tabatabai House, Kashan

Established around 1860, the historic house of Tabatabai is recognized as one of the most exquisite mansions in Kashan.

This 5,000 square meter house is celebrated for its stunning stone reliefs, intricate stucco designs, and mesmerizing stained glass windows.

Travel Planning Resources

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• Safety Wing – For occasional travelers.
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