Shiraz - Discovering Iran

Travelling to Shiraz

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Shiraz, a pretty good destination in Iran (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Shiraz and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Shiraz, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Iran, here's everything to know about Shiraz for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Shiraz

Shiraz is a city located in the southwest of Iran and is considered the capital of the Fars Province. It has a population of around 1.5 million people and is known for its rich cultural heritage, poetry, and architecture. The city has many historical sites, including the Tomb of Hafez and the Tomb of Saadi, two famous Persian poets. Shiraz is also well-known for its gardens and parks, such as the Eram Garden and the Delgosha Garden. Additionally, the city is famous for its grapes and wine, with Shiraz grapes featuring prominently in the production of red wines around the world.

What to visit in Shiraz

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Shiraz along with some information about each of them: 1. Persepolis: This ancient city was once the capital of the Persian Empire and features stunning architectural ruins from that time period. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a must-see for history buffs.
2. Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: Also known as the "Pink Mosque," this stunningly beautiful mosque has stained glass windows that create a colorful display of light inside. It's a very popular spot for photographers.
3. Eram Garden: This well-preserved Persian garden is a popular spot for strolling, picnicking, and taking in the scenery. Surrounded by tall cypress trees, this garden offers a peaceful respite from the city.
4. Vakil Bazaar: This historic bazaar has been an active hub of commerce for centuries. Visitors can explore the maze-like shops selling everything from spices to textiles.
5. Tomb of Hafez: The mausoleum of the famous Persian poet Hafez is a popular pilgrimage site. The tomb is surrounded by a beautiful garden and is a tranquil spot for reflection.
6. Jameh Mosque of Shiraz: This mosque is one of the oldest in Iran and is known for its striking design, which incorporates a mix of pre-Islamic, Islamic, and post-Islamic architectural styles.
7. Arg-e Karim Khan: This 18th-century castle was once the residence of the powerful Karim Khan Zand. Visitors can explore the well-preserved interior, including the throne room and the baths.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Shiraz. There's so much to see and do, and the city's rich history and beautiful architecture make it a must-visit destination in Iran.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Iran, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Shiraz.

When to go on holiday to Shiraz

The best time to visit Shiraz is during the spring (from March to May) or autumn (from September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. The temperatures during these months range from 15°C to 25°C, making it an ideal time to explore the city's historical sites and natural beauty. In the summer months, the temperatures can rise to over 40°C, making it hot and uncomfortable for sightseeing. Winters in Shiraz are relatively mild, but it can still get chilly, and snow is possible in the nearby mountains.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Shiraz

There are several ways to reach Shiraz, Iran: 1. By Air: Shiraz has an international airport, Shiraz International Airport, which has regular flights from major cities in Iran and other countries. You can check out the availability and timings of flights to Shiraz from your destination and book accordingly.
2. By Train: There are regular trains operating from Tehran to Shiraz with several stops in between.
3. By Bus: There are also several bus operators that run buses between Tehran and Shiraz. The journey takes around 10-12 hours, depending on the bus and traffic conditions.
4. Private Car: You can also hire a private car or taxi to travel from Tehran to Shiraz. This will give you more flexibility and comfort, but it will be comparatively more expensive.
I hope this information helps. Let me know if you need any further assistance.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Shiraz, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Shiraz

Sure, here are some typical foods of Shiraz: 1. Kebab: This grilled meat dish, usually made with lamb or beef, is a national favorite in Iran and particularly popular in Shiraz. The meat is marinated in a mixture of spices, yogurt, and onions before grilling over an open flame.
2. Khoresht-e Fesenjan: This rich, savory dish is made with chicken or duck, pomegranate, and walnuts. The result is a slightly sweet and tangy taste, typically served with rice.
3. Ash-e Reshteh: This is a hearty soup made with lentils, beans, herbs, and noodles. It’s commonly consumed during colder months and toppings such as sautéed onions, garlic yogurt and dried mint are added when served.
4. Shirin Polow: This is a sweet and fragrant rice dish. Richly seasoned with saffron and mixed with raisins, carrots, and nuts, it is typically served at weddings, celebrations and religious holidays.
5. Baghali Polo: A classic Persian dish made with rice and fava beans, which is often served as a side dish with lamb or beef kebabs.
6. Mast-o-Khiar: A delicious fresh and light side dish of cucumbers & mint, mixed with yogurt.
7. Shirazi Salad: A refreshing salad made with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and mint.
I hope this helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Iran here.

Is Shiraz an expensive destination for tourists?

Shiraz can be an affordable destination for tourists depending on their budget and travel style. Generally, prices for accommodation, transportation, and food in Shiraz are cheaper than other major cities in Iran, such as Tehran or Isfahan.
However, some tourist attractions in Shiraz may have high entrance fees, such as the UNESCO-listed heritage site of Persepolis. Additionally, if you choose to stay in luxury hotels, shop at high-end stores, or dine at fancy restaurants, your expenses will be higher.
Overall, you can control your expenses by choosing budget-friendly options for accommodation, transportation, and food and by avoiding unnecessary expenses like luxury souvenirs or non-essential activities.

Where to find accomodation in Shiraz

The best areas to find accommodations to visit Shiraz, Iran are located around the downtown area which is near many of the popular sights and attractions, such as the Vakil Bazaar and the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque. Other great areas to consider include the Montazeri Historic House neighborhood, near the Tomb of Hafez, or the Safaieh neighborhood, located near the Eram Garden. Additionally, the Darvazeh Quran neighborhood, about 6 km north of downtown, is another great option, closer to the Saadi Mausoleum and the Quran Gate.
You can check hotel prices at Shiraz here:
Booking.com

Is Shiraz a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Shiraz is considered a safe place for tourists. Iran, in general, is a safe country with low crime rates. However, like any other place in the world, travelers are advised to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. As a foreign tourist, it is recommended to respect local customs and dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention. It's also recommended to keep an eye on your belongings and use common sense to avoid any potential risks.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Iran here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Shiraz.

What type of travelers will enjoy Shiraz the most?

Shiraz, Iran is a city that offers something for everyone and caters to different types of travelers. Here are some insights into which types of travelers might enjoy visiting Shiraz: 1. History and Culture Buffs: Shiraz is hailed as the cultural capital of Iran and is home to some of the country's most iconic landmarks, including Persepolis, Naqsh-e-Rustam, and Pasargadae. History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting these archeological sites and learning about Iran's rich cultural heritage.
2. Romantic Couples: Shiraz is a perfect destination for romantic couples who want to immerse themselves in Persian fairytales. The city's lush gardens, quaint cafes, and historical buildings create a romantic atmosphere that would make for a perfect getaway.
3. Wine Enthusiasts: Shiraz is known around the world for its fine wine, which shares the same name as the city. Wine tasting tours are popular activities for tourists, and there are many wine bars and wineries within the city's limits that offer sampling sessions.
4. Families: Shiraz is a family-friendly destination, with parks, museums and zoos providing ample entertainment to keep the young ones entertained. Families will enjoy visiting the Vakil Bazaar, the oldest bazaar in Shiraz, where they can shop and indulge in exotic Persian delicacies.
5. Nature Lovers: Shiraz's surroundings abound with mountain ranges, natural springs, and waterfalls that appeal to nature lovers. These natural wonders can be explored by hiking, camping, and swimming.
Overall, Shiraz has many attractions that are suitable for travelers of all ages and interests.

How to get around Shiraz

In Shiraz, you can use various modes of transportation such as taxis, buses, and metro to move around the city. Taxis are easily available and convenient for traveling long distances or around the city. Buses are the cheapest mode of transportation and cover most parts of the city. The metro is also a convenient mode of transportation that connects major parts of the city. However, it has limited coverage, and its stations are not located in all parts of the city.

What to see around Shiraz

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Shiraz: 1. Persepolis: A historical site containing the remains of the ancient Persian city. 2. Pasargadae: Another historical site that is the burial place of Cyrus the Great. 3. Naqsh-e Rustam: An ancient necropolis located a few kilometers northwest of Persepolis. 4. Shiraz Gardens: The Eram and Nasir ol-Molk gardens are two beautiful gardens located within the city limits. 5. Qavam House: A traditional Persian mansion located in the heart of Shiraz which is now a museum. 6. Saadi Tomb: The tomb of the famous Persian poet, Saadi, located on the outskirts of the city. 7. Hafez Tomb: Another popular poet's tomb located in Shiraz. 8. Shah Cheragh Mosque: A beautiful mosque in the city center that is known for its breathtaking interior design. 9. Vakil Bazaar: A traditional Persian bazaar located in the city where you can find many souvenirs. 10. Bishapur: A historical site located in the Zagros Mountains which used to be a city of the Sassanian Empire.
For every travel information about Iran you can click here.

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