Isfahan Tourism

Isfahan is located in central Iran, about 290 miles south of Tehran. It was the capital of the Persian Empire in the 16th century. You can still see the historic glory of the city in its architecture and many magnificent mosques and palaces built hundreds of years ago. Iran might not be the most obvious destination on your list of places to visit. but Isfahan is a perfect destination for any history or architecture enthusiast. And it is considered to be one the most beautiful cities in the world by the Iranians.

How to Get There

Flights from the United States connect to Isfahan through Dubai, United Arab Emirates, or Kuwait City, Kuwait. From Europe, Isfahan can be reached from London, UK, or Frankfurt, Germany. In addition, Isfahan is served by cheap domestic flights from any major city in Iran or any of the neighboring countries. Isfahan is also connected to the other major Iranian cities by train and bus.

When to Go

Isfahan has a dry continental climate with very different seasons. Summer months from June to August are hot and dry; winter months from December to February are cold with occasional snowfall. Therefore, the best time to visit Isfahan is spring and fall when the weather is sunny, warm and pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Needed Documents

Every foreign national entering Iran needs a valid passport and a visa. Some foreign nationals can obtain a 15-day tourist visa upon arrival to Iran from certain airports, including Isfahan Airport, but most often visas need to be applied prior to travel.

Restrictions

Iran is a Islamic country, so conservative dress code is expected. Female visitors are advised to cover their hair and body, especially when visiting religious sites. You can arrive to Iran wearing a scarf, a loose fitting top and pants and then buy what you need for your stay from any of the local markets or malls. Most Iranian women wear a scarf and either a short coat with pants or a longer coat that covers their knees. You can freely wear what you want underneath the coat. Showing your ankles is inappropriate, so remember to wear socks. Shorts are not acceptable for men. Iran is a safe country with low violent crime rate but travelers are advised to follow the media due to the possible unstable political situation in Iran.

What to Do

Naghss-e Jahan Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must see in Isfahan. The square is also surrounded by several other beautiful Iranian buildings and monuments. Isfahan also has other mosques, minarets, palaces and boulevards reminding the visitors about the glory of Isfahan as the capital of the Persian empire. Jame Mosque is the largest and the most magnificent mosque in Iran and the one mosque you should visit before leaving Isfahan. The city's large bazaar is the place to buy a Persian rug and other souvenirs.

References

• Iran Traveling Center
• Isfahan Travel