Iran - Discover Persia - Iran

Follow in pilgrims' footsteps and explore the history of old Persia and the spirit of the new Iran. Discover magnificent mosques, small mountain villages, and colourful gardens, and gain deeper insight into this ancient land. Wander the streets of ancient capitals and desert cities, and witness spectacular Zoroastrian temples. Your expert CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will take the hassle out of planning and organizing, leaving you free to uncover the gems of Iran at the best cultural monuments and in the stalls of exotic bazaars.

Day 1 Tehrān
Arrive at any time and welcome to Iran's modern capital, sitting at the base of the snowcapped Alborz Mountains.

Day 2 Tehrān/Yazd
Discover Tehran's most stunning sites with your expert CEO, visiting the Sa’d Abad Complex, Golestan Palace, the National Museum, and Grand Bazaar. In the late afternoon, board a train to the UNESCO city of Yazd.

Day 3 Yazd
The desert city of Yazd is known as the centre of Zoroastrian, one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions. Learn about the fascinating customs here and take in the unique architecture on a city tour. Visit the Towers of Silence, a burial ground atop a desert plateau, and the Fire Temple with a flame that has been burning for more than 1,500 years. Then wander through the Old City and explore the Amir Chakhmaq Complex, admiring Jameh Mosque, Bagh-e Dowlat Abad, and Alexander's Prison.

Day 4 Yazd/Zein-o-Din Caravanserai
This morning, admire the symmetrical beauty of Dowlat Abad Garden, then walk through Old City for a rooftop view overlooking the wind towers, domes, and adobe roofs. Visit Saryazd fortress and enjoy lunch and a cool drink before the short drive to Mehriz where you'll learn the importance of Iranian aqueducts systems. Continue to Zein-o-din Caravenserai, a heritage inn dating back to the 16th century situated on the ancient Silk Road, arriving at sunset. Tonight experience the way of life for old Silk Road traders.

Day 5 Zein-o-Din Caravanserai/Kermān
Travel to the region of Kerman, one of Iran's oldest cities founded in the early third century. This city has historically played an important role on the Trans-Asian trade routes and is home to the mudbrick villages of Rayen and Māhān, both steeped in history. Spend the evening at leisure, and get ready for a full day of Kerman exploration tomorrow.

Day 6 Kermān
Spend the day visiting mesmerizing Persian highlights of the area. Admire the historic Shah Nematollah Vali Shrine with a beautiful blue dome and relax in the peaceful Shahzadeh Garden. Later, visit the intricate and picturesque Bathhouse Museum and wander through the labyrinth paths of the adobe Rayen Castle.

Day 7 Kermān/Shiraz
Travel to Iran's cultural capital⁠—Shiraz⁠—once the home to two of Persia's most famous poets in the 13th and 14th centuries, Hafez and Saadi, whose mausoleums are found here. Arrive for sunset at Maharloo Lake, a seasonal salt lake that sometimes resembles the colour of blood. Afterward, visit the shimmering King of Light Mausoleum.

Day 8 Shiraz
Enjoy a morning walking tour visiting Hafez's Tomb, the Persian paradise of Eram Garden, and the famous "Pink Mosque" with beautiful stained glass that reflects all colours of the rainbow. Spend the afternoon exploring laid-back Shiraz and the bustling bazaar.

Day 9 Shiraz/Isfahan
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Persepolis, the ceremonial palace and tomb of Darius at Naqsh-e-Rostam, and admire its amazingly well-preserved carvings. Stop at the Koran Gate and the UNESCO-listed Pasargadae complex en route to Isfahan, one of the finest Islamic cities in the world.

Day 10 Isfahan
Wander the tree-lined boulevards of Isfahan, the jewel of ancient Persia. On a city tour, visit Imam Square and mosque, Sheikh Lotfallah Mosque, and the Ali Qapu Palace. Try out your bartering skills at the bazaar and learn the history of Isfahan's bridges. Stop in a miniatures shop and learn about this intricate art form before sampling some delicious gaz, a candy famous in Isfahan.

Day 11 Isfahan
Spend a full day exploring this gorgeous city. Take a morning tour of New Julfa - the Armenian quarter of Isfahan located along the south bank of the Zayande. Visit Vank Cathedral and the Music Museum, showcasing over 300 traditional Iranian musical instruments in its sleek gallery, and opt for a 40 minute concert.

Day 12 Isfahan/Abyāneh
Take a scenic drive through Natanz to the mountain village of Abyaneh, known for having retained its ancient charm of traditions, language, and dress. Arrive in time for the spectacular reddish hues of the sunset and embark on a village walk, wandering the quiet lanes and sampling dried fruit. Then relax in the hotel overlooking the green fields below.

Day 13 Abyāneh/Tehrān
En route to Tehran, stop in the garden city of Kashan to visit the Khan-e Borujerdi house and Agha Bozorg Mosque. Arrive back in Tehran and wander through the massive mausoleum of Imam Khomeini. This evening, make the most of your last night of this life-changing adventure.

Day 14 Tehrān
Depart at any time.