Iran is one of those rare destinations where every region feels like a different world. From its ancient cities filled with Persian art and history to its breathtaking deserts, lush forests, and snow-covered mountains, this country is a dream for travelers who love variety. As tourism continues to grow in Top Tourist Destinations in Iran 2025, new attractions, eco-friendly tours, and upgraded accommodations make visiting Iran more comfortable than ever.
If you’re wondering where to start, here’s a list of the top tourist destinations in Iran that combine culture, nature, and adventure in perfect harmony. Stay with us at Hey Persia to learn more about them.
Table of contents
- Tehran — A Modern Metropolis with Ancient Roots
- Isfahan — The City of Blue Domes and Bridges
- Shiraz — The City of Poetry, Gardens, and History Origins
- Yazd — The Desert City of Wind Towers
- Kashan — Where Tradition Meets Tranquility of Top Tourist Destinations in Iran
- Tabriz — Gateway to the Northwest
- Northern Iran — The Green Heart of the Country
- The Persian Gulf Islands — Kish and Qeshm
- Top Tourist Destinations in Iran
Tehran — A Modern Metropolis with Ancient Roots
Most international travelers begin their journey in Tehran, Iran’s lively capital. It’s a city where modern life and deep history coexist — skyscrapers stand beside royal palaces, and street art decorates walls just steps away from centuries-old mosques.
What to see in Tehran:
- Golestan Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Qajar-era architecture and vibrant tilework.
- Milad Tower and Azadi Tower: Two modern symbols of the city that offer great panoramic views.
- The Grand Bazaar: One of the oldest markets in the Middle East, perfect for shopping handmade crafts and Persian carpets.
- The National Museum: A must-visit for understanding Iran’s rich archaeology and heritage.
Tehran’s café culture is growing quickly, with trendy spots in areas like Tajrish and Valiasr Street where locals and visitors meet over tea and saffron ice cream.
Isfahan — The City of Blue Domes and Bridges
A nickname that tells you just how beautiful it is and with its turquoise-tiled mosques, graceful bridges, and peaceful atmosphere, it remains the jewel of Persian architecture.
Highlights of Isfahan:
- Naqsh-e Jahan Square (Imam Square): One of the largest and most stunning city squares in the world, surrounded by the Shah Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and Ali Qapu Palace.
- Si-o-se-pol and Khaju Bridges: Iconic stone bridges that come alive at night with music and gatherings.
- Isfahan Bazaar: A labyrinth of shops selling miniature paintings, enamel work, and traditional fabrics.
Isfahan’s blend of culture and calm makes it a top choice for travelers seeking both history and charm.
Shiraz — The City of Poetry, Gardens, and History Origins
If Iran had a soul, it might live in Shiraz. Known as the city of poets, roses, and nightingales, Shiraz has long been the cultural heart of Persia.
Don’t miss:
- Persepolis: The ancient ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, just outside the city.
- Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque): Famous for its rainbow-colored stained glass that fills the prayer hall with morning light.
- Eram Garden: A UNESCO-listed Persian garden that shows the perfect harmony of architecture and nature.
- Tomb of Hafez: A peaceful place dedicated to one of Iran’s greatest poets, where visitors recite poetry at sunset.
Shiraz offers not only beauty but also a feeling of serenity and inspiration.
Yazd — The Desert City of Wind Towers
Built from sun-dried clay, it rises from the heart of the desert like a golden mirage. Its architecture was designed to survive the heat and wind, making it one of the most sustainable cities of ancient times.
Top attractions in Yazd:
- The Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with winding alleys and mud-brick houses.
- Jameh Mosque of Yazd: Known for its tall minarets and deep blue tiles.
- Dowlat Abad Garden: A Persian garden featuring the tallest windcatcher (natural cooling tower) in Iran.
- Zoroastrian Fire Temple: Where a sacred flame has burned for over 1,500 years.
Today, Yazd has become a favorite for eco-tourists and photographers seeking Iran’s timeless desert charm.
Kashan — Where Tradition Meets Tranquility of Top Tourist Destinations in Iran
Located between Tehran and Isfahan, Kashan is often overlooked, but it’s one of Iran’s most enchanting cities. It combines Persian elegance with small-town peace.
What to see in Kashan:
- Tabatabaei and Borujerdi Houses: Magnificent examples of traditional Persian residential architecture.
- Fin Garden: A UNESCO-listed garden famous for its fountains and cypress trees.
- Agha Bozorg Mosque: A stunning 19th-century mosque with symmetrical design and calming courtyards.
Each spring, Kashan hosts the Rose Water Festival, where villagers distill fragrant roses into traditional perfumes — a magical experience for visitors.
Tabriz — Gateway to the Northwest
In the northwestern corner of Iran lies Tabriz, a city with a distinct Azeri culture and a long history as a Silk Road trading hub.
Places to explore in Tabriz:
- Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex: One of the oldest and largest covered bazaars in the world, full of carpets and spices.
- Blue Mosque: A 15th-century marvel known for its turquoise mosaics.
- El Goli Park: A lakeside park with a grand mansion in the center, perfect for evening strolls.
Tabriz also offers a cooler climate, delicious local cuisine, and easy access to Lake Urmia and the stunning Kandovan village — Top Tourist Destinations in Iran version of Cappadocia.
Northern Iran — The Green Heart of the Country
When most people imagine Iran, they think of deserts. Yet the north is a completely different story — lush, green, and humid. The Caspian Sea coast stretches across provinces like Gilan and Mazandaran, offering a refreshing contrast to the arid south.
Must-see spots:
- Ramsar and Chalus: Beautiful mountain roads and seaside resorts.
- Masuleh Village: A UNESCO candidate village where houses are built on top of each other’s roofs.
- Alamut Valley: Known for its dramatic cliffs and medieval fortress.
This region is perfect for road trips, hiking, and eco-tourism in 2025, as Iran continues to expand sustainable lodging options.
The Persian Gulf Islands — Kish and Qeshm
Southern Iran’s islands in the Persian Gulf are becoming top destinations for both domestic and international travelers.
Kish Island offers modern beach resorts, scuba diving, and duty-free shopping, while Qeshm Island attracts nature lovers with its unique landscapes — such as the Valley of Stars and Hara Mangrove Forests.
In 2025, both islands have added new eco-resorts, diving centers, and cultural festivals celebrating local crafts and marine life.
Top Tourist Destinations in Iran
The top tourist destinations in Iran offer an incredible mix of experiences — from ancient ruins and colorful mosques to coastal escapes and mountain adventures. Whether you’re exploring the narrow alleys of Yazd, listening to poetry in Shiraz, or sipping tea by Isfahan’s river bridges, every moment feels like stepping into a story.
With improved infrastructure, easier visas, and growing global interest, 2025 is an ideal year to explore this captivating land. Iran isn’t just a place you visit; it’s a place that stays with you long after you return home.
