Grand Tour of Iran: From the Caspian Sea to the Persian Gulf

Tour guide will meet tourists at IKA international airport for a “Welcome to Iran” meeting. Then transfer to hotel and rest.
Over night: Tehran

In the morning Tour guide will meet you in lobby for Tehran city tour1 that is include visiting of Golestan Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site) which is a masterpiece of the Qajar era, embodying the successful integration of Persian crafts and architecture, after Golestan palace continue city tour by visiting Sardare Baghe Meli(National Garden (Baq-e-Melli)) , National Museum of Iran and Islamic Museum Next door to the National Museum, and part of the same complex, this museum offers a stunning collection of arts and antiquities from throughout the Islamic, …, then continue to Azadi square and Azadi tower.

Optional tour: Instead of Tehran city tour1 you can visit the monumental Mausoleum of Imam Khomeini, located in the southern part of the city near Behesht-e Zahra cemetery.

This vast architectural complex is one of Iran’s most important modern religious and historical landmarks, dedicated to the memory of Imam Khomeini. The site features impressive Islamic architecture, including large domes, minarets, and expansive ceremonial spaces that host thousands of visitors and pilgrims each year.

Beyond its architectural significance, the mausoleum serves as a key cultural and commemorative site in contemporary Iran, reflecting the country’s modern history and political transformation.

Please note, time of visit-Golestan palace:

✔ Visiting hours of the collection in (usual days) autumn and winter (Saturday to Wednesday) are from 9 am to 5 pm (Thursday and Friday) from 9 am to 6 pm.

Ticket sales (Saturday to Wednesday) are from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (Thursday and Friday) from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

✔ Visiting hours of the Golestan Palace World Heritage Collection are from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (on normal days) in summer.

Ticket sales are from 9:00 AM to 5:15 PM.

✔ It is suggested to adjust the time of your visit according to the end of work and that you need at least two-Three hours to visit the collection.

*Contact us to find out about museum and palace holidays.

Overnight: Tehran

Tehran city tour include visit of: Former US embassy and the Museum of the Holy Defense and Milad Tower.
Overnight: Tehran.

Transfer to Mehrabad airport of Tehran, for flight from Tehran to Tabriz. arrive to Tabriz.

Tabriz city tour include visiting: El Goli (formerly Shah Goli), Blue Mosque, The Bazaar of Tabriz(UNESCO World Heritage site), Azerbaijan Museum, Ark-e-Alishah, Constitution house, …

Please note: in case flight time be in the afternoon (16:00 or later), flight will be booked for previous day(Day 3).

Overnight: Tabriz

Ground transfer to Kandovan village, Kandovan is an extraordinary ancient village in the province of East Azarbaijan, near the city of Tabriz, Iran. With its at least 800 years existence, this remarkable place is inhabited by 670 people and offers scenic beauty for its travelers. With homes carved inside rocks, some of them 700 years old, the Kandovan village is said to have been partially formed by volcanic remains from a strong Mount Sahand eruptions hundreds of years ago. The intriguing architecture of this village seems to defy all rules and travelers are usually fascinated by its incredible slopes and irreverent paths. free time…

Overnight in rocky hotel-Kandovan

transfer to airport for domestic flight Tabriz-Mashhad, arrive Mashhad city.

First day Mashhad Ziarat / pilgrimage tour include Ziarat Imam Reza holy shrine and visit Haram Emam Reza/ Imam Reza holy shrine pilgrimage. 

Overnight: Mashhad

Mashhad city tour and Ziarat tour include visiting: Emam Reza holy shrine and pray in Haram, … . Free time for Bazar,… . A visit of Koh Sangi, as Koh Sangi Park is one of Mashhad’s recreational and tourist attractions. Koh Sangi complex is the second largest park in Mashhad.

Overnight: Mashhad.

Begin your day with a transfer to Mashhad Airport for a domestic flight to Sari, the gateway to Northern Iran’s lush Caspian region. Upon arrival in Sari—an ancient city located on the northern slopes of the Alborz Mountains and just a short distance from the Caspian Sea —you will immediately notice the refreshing change in climate and scenery.

Continue your journey with a comfortable ground transfer to Noor, a beautiful coastal destination along the Caspian shoreline. This scenic route takes you through verdant landscapes, dense Hyrcanian forests, and charming rural areas, offering a striking contrast to Iran’s central and desert regions.

Located near the Caspian Sea—the world’s largest inland body of water —Noor is known for its peaceful beaches, mild climate, and rich natural surroundings. Upon arrival, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this northern paradise, where mountains, forests, and sea meet in perfect harmony.

Overnight: North of Iran

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Northern Iran, where lush forests, majestic mountains, and the Caspian Sea create one of the most scenic regions in the Middle East. This unforgettable day tour covers Noor, Chalus, Namak Abroud, and Ramsar, offering a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and adventure.

Enjoy a comfortable 150 km ground transfer through the legendary Chalus Road—one of Iran’s most famous scenic routes—where the landscape dramatically transitions from the Alborz Mountains to the Caspian coastline. The region is renowned for its dense forests, fresh air, and diverse natural scenery, making it a top destination for eco-tourism and relaxation.

Discover Chalus, often called the “evergreen gem” of northern Iran, known for its lush forest parks and proximity to the sea… . Visit the famous Namak Abroud resort, one of Iran’s most popular tourist destinations. Experience the spectacular telecabin (cable car) ride from the Caspian shoreline up to the Alborz mountain peaks, offering breathtaking panoramic views of forests and sea … .

Optional activities include zip-lining, forest walking, and leisure time in this vibrant recreational complex.

End your journey in Ramsar, known as the “Bride of the Caspian,” famous for its unique combination of sea, mountains, and lush gardens.
Overnight: Ramsar.

Ground transfer from Ramsar to Rasht airport for flight from Rasht to Shiraz. Arrive to Shiraz, transfer to hotel and rest.

Visit Hafezieh, the tomb of the legendary Persian poet Hafez, where culture, literature, and spirituality come together in a peaceful atmosphere. 

Overnight: Shiraz

On the second day, embark on a fascinating journey into the heart of Ancient Persia with a full-day excursion to Persepolis and Pasargadae, two of Iran’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Begin with Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, where you will explore magnificent ruins, grand staircases, and intricate stone carvings that date back over 2,500 years. This legendary site reflects the power, artistry, and vision of one of the world’s greatest ancient civilizations.

Continue to Pasargadae, the first capital of the Achaemenid Empire and the final resting place of Cyrus the Great. Surrounded by vast plains and historical remains, this site offers a deeper understanding of the origins of Persian culture and governance

Ground transfer to Bandar Abbas(in case flight not available), arrive Bandar Abbas, hotel check in and rest.

Arrive in Bandar Abbas, the main port city of Southern Iran and a gateway to the Persian Gulf islands. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in and relaxation. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the coastal atmosphere, local bazaars, or simply resting after your journey in this warm and vibrant seaside city.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Southern Iran on this unforgettable multi-day journey through the coastal city of Bandar Abbas and the spectacular islands of Hormuz and Qeshm, located in the heart of the Persian Gulf. This tour combines unique geological landscapes, pristine nature, and authentic island culture.

Overnight: Bandar Abbas

Embark on a full-day excursion to Hormuz Island, famously known as the “Rainbow Island” due to its extraordinary colorful landscapes and mineral-rich soil formations.

During the tour, explore some of the island’s most iconic natural attractions, including:

• Rainbow Valley, a surreal landscape of multi-colored earth
• Silent Valley, a peaceful natural canyon with unique acoustic effects
• Red Soil Mine, showcasing the island’s famous red ochre soil
• Turtle Rock, a natural rock formation shaped like a giant turtle
• Sculpture Valley, featuring naturally carved rock formations shaped by wind and time

After the tour, return to Bandar Abbas for overnight stay.

After breakfast, travel to Qeshm Island, the largest island in the Persian Gulf and a UNESCO Global Geopark known for its extraordinary natural wonders.

Highlights of the Qeshm Island tour include:

• Stars Valley, a dramatic geological site formed by centuries of erosion
• Naz Islands (Jazireh Naz), small tidal islands accessible during low tide
• Mangrove Forest (Hara Forest), a unique coastal ecosystem rich in wildlife
• Hengam Island, famous for dolphin watching and traditional island life

This full-day experience offers a perfect combination of geology, marine life, culture, and adventure.
Overnight: Bandar Abbas.

In the morning, ground transfer to Yazd city, arrive to Yazd city. Hotel check in. Yazd city tour include:

• Visit the magnificent Amir Chakhmaq Complex, the city’s iconic landmark.
• Walk through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, famous for its mud-brick architecture, narrow alleyways, and traditional neighborhoods.
• Explore the stunning Jameh Mosque of Yazd, renowned for its beautiful blue tilework and soaring twin minarets.
• Discover the lively Traditional Bazaar, where you can shop for Persian sweets, handmade textiles, copper handicrafts, and local souvenirs.

Yazd city tour included visit of:

• Visit the beautiful Dowlat Abad Garden, a UNESCO-listed Persian Garden featuring the world’s tallest traditional windcatcher (Badgir).
• Explore the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, home to a sacred flame that has been burning continuously for centuries.
• Visit the historic Towers of Silence, where you’ll learn about ancient Zoroastrian burial traditions while enjoying panoramic views of the desert landscape.

In the afternoon ground transfer to Isfahan city, arrive to Isfahan, hotel check in and rest.

Overnight: Isfahan.

Isfahan city tour include:

• Visit Naqsh-e Jahan Square (UNESCO World Heritage Site), one of the largest and most spectacular public squares in the world.
• Explore the magnificent Shah Mosque (Imam Mosque), famous for its stunning turquoise domes, intricate tilework, and exceptional Persian-Islamic architecture.
• Visit the elegant Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, renowned for its beautifully decorated dome and unique architectural design.
• Discover Ali Qapu Palace, the royal residence of the Safavid kings, offering panoramic views over Naqsh-e Jahan Square.
• Walk through the historic Grand Bazaar of Isfahan, where you can browse Persian carpets, miniature paintings, copperware, handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.
• Visit the historic Jameh Mosque of Isfahan (Atiq Mosque), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest and most significant mosques in Iran, representing over twelve centuries of Islamic architecture.
• Explore the beautiful Vank Cathedral in the Armenian Quarter of Jolfa, celebrated for its magnificent frescoes, gilded interiors, and fascinating museum reflecting the history of the Armenian community in Iran.
• Visit the iconic Si-o-se-pol Bridge, one of Isfahan’s most famous architectural landmarks or Khaju Bridge, admired for its remarkable design and lively atmosphere along the Zayandeh Rud River.
• Bazar.

Overnight: Isfahan.

Travel from the magnificent city of Isfahan to the historic oasis of Kashan and continue to the holy city of Qom on this enriching two-day journey. This tour combines exquisite Persian architecture, UNESCO-recognized Persian gardens, traditional merchant houses, and important religious landmarks, offering a unique blend of Iran’s cultural and spiritual heritage.

• Depart from Isfahan and drive toward the historic city of Kashan.
• Visit the beautiful Fin Garden (Bagh-e Fin), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of traditional Persian garden design, featuring elegant pavilions, fountains, and ancient cypress trees.
• Explore one of Kashan’s magnificent historic mansions:
  • Borujerdi House, famous for its exquisite frescoes, windcatchers, and Qajar-era architecture,
  • or Tabatabaei House, renowned for its elegant courtyards, stained-glass windows, and intricate stucco decorations.
• Continue your journey to Qom, one of the most important religious cities in the Islamic world.
• En route, visit Jamkaran Mosque, one of Iran’s most significant pilgrimage sites, attracting visitors from around the world.
• Visit the Imam Khomeini House, the former residence of the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran, now preserved as a historical and cultural landmark.
• Check in to your hotel in Qom.

• Visit the magnificent Shrine of Hazrat Fatima Masumeh (SA), one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in Iran and a masterpiece of Islamic architecture with golden domes, beautiful courtyards, and intricate tilework.
• Stroll through the traditional Qom Bazaar, where visitors can discover local handicrafts, religious items, Persian sweets, spices, and authentic souvenirs while experiencing the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
• Then continue to IKA airport Tehran and departure Iran.