How to Find Cheap Hotels in Tehran, Iran

With over 14 million citizens, Tehran is the largest city in Iran and the country's capital. Although the city offers a wide variety of activities, including a rich historical and cultural heritage, political tension has made traveling to the country quite dangerous.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Passport and appropriate visas

Instructions

Find Cheap Accommodations in Tehran

1. Stay in a hotel close to the airport for moderate rates. This part of the city offers a great jump-off point from which the city can be discovered.

2. Stay with a local family inexpensively and learn traditional Iranian customs.

3. Center yourself in the city and pay cheap rates at a budget hotel. If you want to splurge, pay more expensive rates for a luxury hotel.

4. Stay near the International Trade and Convention Center to discover Tehran's more modern side. In addition to the numerous shops and restaurants in the area, affordable hotels abound.

5. Travel back into the city's history and choose accommodations in the Chaleh Meydan District. The oldest part of Tehran, this area has many of the city's vintage buildings, including cheap hotel options.

Get Around Tehran

1. Book a taxi by phone and expect to pay a few dollars for a trip across the city. This is the fastest mode of transportation to and from your accommodations.

2. Get on a bus and go to a museum for the day. Bus rides only cost a few cents by American standards.

3. Utilize the metro for a very cheap fee. It's not as crowded as the bus lines and is usually faster.

Discover Activities in Tehran

1. Go on a hike. The mountains above Tehran offer outstanding hiking trails.

2. Visit the Grand Bazaar and spend the day shopping. Vendors of all kinds gather at this unique and exciting market.

3. Enjoy world-class skiing on Tochal Mountain.

Tips & Warnings

• Brush up on your Farsi, the local language, as many Iranians do not speak English.

• The Iranian rial is the official currency.

• Exchange money at your bank or online before leaving, or take cash to exchange in Tehran.

• Due to political tension, Tehran is not safe for American travelers.

• Watch for air pollution during the cold and hot months of January and February and July and August.

• Some borders may be closed, making it difficult to get into the country.