Here lies the capital of the Safavid empire, in the country's centre. Magnificent monuments from the 16th and 18th centuries, arranged like a huge garden. The stop not to miss in order to discover all Iran's splendour.

Middle East

It needs to be said: Iran is not the first tourist destination that springs to mind when travellers are planning their next trip. The events of the last few decades have horribly tarnished the image of the country, to the extent of making it into a place which has been deserted by tourism. However, nothing but riches and wonders await those who have the courage to go beyond the clichés and the adverts. Along with the legendary hospitality of the Iranian people, is the thousand-year-old culture, which is both rich and precious, interior designs of unexpected beauty and archaeological heritage which will make any history enthusiasts interested in ruins tremble in anticipation. Iran is also a country that is half the size of Europe at the crossroads of Mediterranean and Asian civilisations, of inspirations, a subtle mix which will eternally surprise the traveller by its richness, its diversity and the beauty of the encounters which will be in no short supply during your journey! Put what other people say aside and leave, as others have, on the trail of the Persian empire, Persepolis, Shiraz or even Isfahan on a journey to Iran.

Iran

Isfahan

At one time Iran's capital, Shiraz is home to the tombs of the greatest Iranian poets, Hafez and Saadi, and was once famous for the wine formerly produced here from the well-known grape variety that today shares the city's name.

Shiraz

A metropolis with 15 million inhabitants, Tehran is an essential destination while on holiday in Iran. With the variety of its museums, its many bazaars, and its hiking trails that wind around the 3,900 metre tall Mount Tochal which overlooks the city, you won't get bored there.

Tehran

One of the largest towns in the country and the capital of the Azeris (a Turkish speaking ethnicity), the largest minority in Iran, Tabriz has been an important gateway town for centuries, at the crossroads of Turkey, the Caucasus and Iran.

Tabriz

Everything in Mashhad reminds you of the reason for the town's existence, including its name: one of the most important imams in Shiism is buried here, Reza. Attracting millions of pilgrims each year, it's also the saffron capital of Iran.

Mashhad

Europe

Central America

Africa

North America

South America

Asia

Oceania

The second largest city in Iran,Mashhad developed around the mausoleum of Imam Reza and today welcomes close to 20 million Shiite pilgrims from all over the Muslim world.
Penetrating into the mausoleum's enclosure gave me a better idea of the religious fervour which can drive Iranians. Reaching the tomb isn't normally allowed for non-Muslims, but the lucky ones may succeed in slipping into the crowd to rally the Holy of Holies and witness the very emotional displays of religious fervour.
In addition to Imam Reza's mausoleum, you'll be able to visit the tomb of Nader Shah Afshar, an Iranian emperor who briefly conquered Delhi (India) in the 18th century. Other historic attractions close to Mashhad during a trip to Iran are the neighbouring towns of Nishabur and Tus.

Mashhad Vacations

Mashhad: How to get there?

Mashhad: When to go?

Mashhad: For how long?

Mashhad: What to see in the surroundings?