Iran is a country in Western Asia also known by its other names Persia and the official name Islamic Republic of Iran. Though Iran tourism is always dubious but the country never ceases to amaze its visitors. The magnificent beauty of the buildings, bridges, dams, river bodies, canals, etc will amaze you for sure.

Here are some of the places to visit in Iran are:

Ali Qapu Palace

Grand Ālī Qāpū is another name of Ali Qapu palace. It is an imperial palace located in Isfahan, Iran. Located on the west of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, this palace was residence of Persian Emperors of the Safavid dynasty. The place holds cultural significance and has been considered a world heritage site along with Naqsh-e-Jahan square. The48m high palace has six floors all steeped in great architectural beauty. It is also as a fine example of Safavid architecture. Ali Qapu is a symbol of Iran’s Islamic heritage and that’s why a must to visit place in Iran.

Chehel Sotoun Palace

Chehel Sotoun in literary terms means “Forty Columns”. The place is located in Ishafan, Iran. It’s a Persian pavilion built by Shah Abbas II. It was earlier used as a place to receive dignitaries and ambassadors. This palace holds a great historical value and much of the history of battles. Visit here to acquire some knowledge about Iranian history and their culture. Chehel Sotoun is one of the nine Iranian gardens which come under World Heritage Sites. The main attractions of this palace are the paintings it has.

Si O Se Pol Bridge

The Allahverdi Khan Bridge also known by the name Si-o-se-pol is the largest bridge among the 11 historical bridges on the River Zayanderud, Iran. It is one of the famous tourist sites in Isfahan. Built-in the 17th century, it is both a dam and a bridge. This double-deck bridge is made up of stone and brick and is a beautiful place to visit in Iran. The interesting part of si-o-se-pol is the paintings that are considered as erotic by travelers.

Vank Church

The Holy Savior Cathedral which can be romanized as Kelisā ye Āmenāperkič in the Persian Language. It is referred to as the Church of the Saintly Sisters. The Cathedral is located in Isfahan, Iran. In the Armenian Language, it is referred to as Vank which means “convent” or “monastery”. It was established in 1606 and is now a popular tourist spot in Iran. The interior has a much elaborative and intricate design than the outside and looks splendid at the night.

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque can be called the masterpiece of Iranian architecture. The mosque was originally built in 1619 but was reconstructed in 1920. It lifts up the beauty of Naqsh-i Jahan Square from the east side. The mosque was built by Shah Abbas for the women of his harem; it aimed to be private until it was opened to the public. The mosque design is said to be more beautiful and much intricate as compared to the Shah Mosque.

Abbasi Great Mosque

This is the other mosque dominating the Naqsh-i Jahan Square from the south side. It is located in Isfahan, Iran. Built during the Safavid dynasty is came to know as Imam Mosque. The construction of this Mosque began in 1601 and is a fine example of Persian Architecture. If you are visiting Naqsh-i Jahan Square make sure to visit this mosque too. AbbasiGreat Mosque is depicted on 20,000 rials banknote.

Persepolis

Persepolis is a World Heritage site located in Fars Province, Iran, and a must to see the place in Iran. It was once known to be the capital of the Achaemenid Empire. The place was founded in the 6th century BC. Having a beautiful architectural design of Achaemenid style, the place is build of Limestone, Mud, brick, and Cedar trees. If you are in Iran make sure to visit this place to witness the country in its true form.

Valley of the Stars

Valley of stars is also known as Stars Valley. It is located in Qeshm, Iran. The place provides splendid views of nature and mystery. The Valley of stars got its name when a star fell and shape this valley. The other structures are formed due to wind and soil erosion. Visit this valley in Iran for a different experience as this will make you feel like you are on the planet Mars.

Chogha Zanbil

 The first Iranian site to be registered with UNESCO World Heritage Site is Choga Samil. It is founded in 13th century BC in Khuzestan province and is one of the few Ziggurats. The word Chogha Zanbil can be translated as ‘basket mound.’ The three concentric walls protect around eleven temples that are main. UNESCO considers it as a fine example of the stepped pyramidal monument and a must to see the place in Iran.

Babak Castle

Pāpak Fort also known as Babak Castle is a large citadel located on the top of a mountain in the Arasbaran forests, Iran. It is also known as Ghal’eh-e -Baz″. It was once the stronghold of Javidhan and Babak Khorramdin, Khurramite leaders in Iranian Azerbaijan. It is located at the height of 2300–2600 meters. The series of broken steps leads to the top which is surrounded by gorges of about 400-600 m.

Nasir ol-Molk Mosque

Nasir ol-Molk Mosque is a mosque located in Shiraz, Iran and most commonly known as “The Pink Mosque”. The rosy-hued tiles make it a beautiful place to visit in Iran. The beautiful design inside the mosque, the walls, the roof, the dome everything will make you feel like you are walking inside a kaleidoscope. It is considered the most beautiful mosque of Iran. For a perfect view, visit here during the evening time or at night. It is also located near Shāh Chérāgh Mosque.

Anzali Lagoon

If you want to take the beautiful views of nature while boating in a lagoon then this is a place for you in Iran. As Iran has beautiful culture related buildings, it surely have a lagoon to spend your time at. Anzali Lagoon is located in Bandar Anzali. Take the boat ride to witness the various bird species and houses built on stilts. The most beautiful part of this ride is watching water lotus in the dark waters.

Chalus Road

Chalus road is known to be the most scenic place in Iran. If you travelling to the northern part of Iran, make sure you take the Chalus road for fun experience among the nature. The roads are steep coming down from the mountainside, tunnels made of solid rock, water bodies and natural springs on the way makes it the most beautiful place of the country. This is among the must visit place of Iran.

 Naqsh-e Jahan Square

Naqsh-e Jahan Square or Maidān-e Naghsh-e Jahān is located in Iran. It can be translated as “Image of the World Square”. It is commonly known as Shah Square or Imam Square. It is a square at the center of Isfahan, Iran. The square holds an important value and was constructed between the years 1598 and 1629. It is surrounded by many historical buildings; Shah Mosque in the south, Sheikh Lotf Allah Mosque in the east, Ali Qapu Palace in the West, and Qeysarie Gate which leads to Isfahan Grand Bazaar in the North. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and most visited place in Iran.

Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System

Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Iran. It’s a complex irrigation system. Its origin can be traced back to the 5th Century BCE. You can climb up the hills to get beautiful views from above. The complex consists of watermills, dams, tunnels, and canals. You can see GarGar weir, Bolyati Canal,  Dahaneye Shahr tunnel, Seh koreh and Band-e Kaisar.

 Khaju Bridge

The Khaju Bridge is among the historical bridges on the River Zayanderud in Isfahan, Iran. The Kaju Bridge serves as a bridge and a weir.  Khaju quarter (north) and a Zoroastrian quarter are linked by this bridge. The city’s finest bridge has been a place for public meetings. The bridge has undergone many changes since its construction but always remained a top site for tourists in Iran. You can also visit the mausoleum of Arthur Pope and his wife located nearby the bridge.

Tabatabai House

Tabatabai House is among the famous Kashan Historical Homes located in Kahan, Iran. It is a must-visit place in Iran. Built-in 1880, it holds great value along all the other historical homes. Covering the area of 5,000 square meters, The Tabatabai House has 4 courtyards, 3 windcatchers, 4 basements, and gardens. The intricate designs in the buildings and beautifully crafted buildings made of stone reliefs, stained glasses and stucco are something to see.

Āmeri House

The Āmeri House is also among the historical houses of Kashan in Iran. Originally built as a residence of Agha Āmeri, it now serves as a traditional-style hotel. It was renovated as it was destroyed in the earthquake in the 18th century. Spread over the area of 9,000 square meters it consists of 2 bathhouses, 7 courtyards, dozens of rooms, gardens, and fountains. The interior has mirror work which makes the place more fascinating. This is one of the must-see sites in Iran.

Borujerdi House

The Borujerdi House is the third historic house located in Kashan, Iran. Built-in 1857, for the bride of a wealthy merchant,  Borujerdi. It has a main hall, courtyard, fountain pool, and two-story balcony. The design of the house has mirror work, glasswork, and is decorated with stucco.

Sheikh Safi al-din Khanegah and Shrine

This shrine is located in Ardabil, Iran. The Sheikh Safi al-din Khanegah and Shrine is the tomb of Sheikh Safi al-din, Sufi mystic leader. The complex comprises of many architectural treat to watch Ali-Ghapu area, the great courtyard, the portal, the portico, the Women-only space, the grave of Sheikh Safi al-Din itself, Chini-house, the grave of King Ismail I, and wooden and silver doors, Khanqah, The Janatsara Mosque, the burial ground of the martyrs and Cheraqkhaneh.

Pigeon Towers

Pigeon Towers of Iran holds a special value among Iranians as they aren’t considered as nuisances. Pigeons hold an important position for city dwellers. About five centuries ago, their droppings were considered valuable. So, these towards were constructed as pigeon homes. All of them hold fourteen thousand pigeons. Their droppings are collected and used as fertilizer.

Chak Chak

Chak or “Drip-Drip” is a village located in Iran. It can also be romanized as Chek Chek. This village is commonly knowns as Chāhak-e Ardakān and Pir-e Sabz.  This place serves as a pilgrimage site for Zoroastrians and considered the most important mountain shrines of Zoroastrianism. Thousands of people flock here from different countries. The most attractive feature of this village is the ever-dripping spring which has a legend tale related to it. This is also one of the major places to see in Iran.

Rudkhan Castle

Rudkhan Castle also known as Roodkhan Castle is a stone and brick medieval fortress located in Iran. Built by the Gilaks, the castle sits at the 2 peaks of a mountain at the height of 715 m and 670 m. The castle has a big entrance gate and is surrounded by dense forests. You have to climb many stairs to reach the top but it is worth the view. It is also known as the “Castle of Thousand Steps”.

Katalekhor Cave

Katalekhor Cave traces back to the Jurassic Period. This cave is located outside of Zanjan. It was discovered less than a century ago, but it is still an interesting place to see in Iran. Most of the tourists flock to this place to witness something about the Jurassic era. Though it is less popular than Ali Sadr Cave but it still is a nice place to visit.

Hafez Tomb

If you want to visit the tomb of any poet, then you must definitely visit one Persian poet, Hafez. The tomb is surrounded by a beautiful garden where tourists spend their time. The best time to visit here is during the evening. In the evening, tourists and locals recite a few lines of his poems and pay tribute to him. The other attraction of this place is fortune predictions, from great poets.

Hormoz Island

Hormoz Island is one such beauty located in the country Iran. This is a small island steeped into extreme beauty. The splendid views are something that makes you want to visit here once in your lifetime. The beautiful colors of land in yellow, orange, and red make the best of the view. The Persian Gulf water is like the cherry on top. It is also home to wildlife.

Lut Desert

Lut Desert is a beautiful site in Iran. It is also known as the Dasht-e Lut. The desert comes under UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the 25th largest desert in the world. It is also the hottest place on earth for 7years. The yardangs, the sand ridges continuously change their shape to provide exquisite beauty. So, if you visit different times you might witness totally different place.

Bisotun and Taq-e Bostan

The two historical sites, Bisotun and Taq-e Bostan are located close to each other in the Kermanshah Province, Iran. These two places reek of history. They are the most visited tourist places because of the fascinating remnants. Bistoun has rock reliefs and the statue of Hercules. Taq-e Bostan also has rock reliefs, an image of the last king of the Sassanid Empire with Ahura Mazda and Anahita.

National Museum of Iran

The beautiful museum located in Tehran, Iran is something to visit. It is the 1st Italian Museum. This museum dominates Masshq Square from the west. The museum is home to remains of tools made of pyrite, animal fossil fountains, the oldest human remains, pillow pendants, animal teeth, and flowers, and many more things are kept in this museum which makes it a must-visit place in Iran.

The Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar or known as Bāzār e Bozorg in Roman is an old historical bazaar located in the city of Tehran, Iran. The bazaar is one of the most visited places in Iran and sees lots of tourists. Over 10km in length, the bazaar is divided into corridors. Sabze-Meydan is the main entrance and the corridors specialize in selling different types of goods.

Golestan Palace

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is another charming place of Iran’s capital city, Tehran. The Golestan Palace is also known as Kākh-e Golestān in Persian. This palace is the former royal Qajar complex. This complex is a home of Tehran’s oldest buildings and constitutes of royal buildings, gardens, museums having European presents, and collections of Iranian crafts and halls.

Blue Mosque

The blue mosque is a major tourist site in Iran. The site was destroyed majorly during the earthquake of 1780s. It was reconstructed but still is incomplete. Most of the parts were destroyed leaving being the Main Entrance Hall, Iwan. The walls are covered with mosaic tiles and the buildings have an inscription in calligraphy.  The Thuluth scripts and Kufic scripts were created by Nematollah-ben-Mohammad-ol-Bavab.

Bazaar of Tabriz

The Bazaar of Tabriz also known as Bāzār-e Tabriz is one of the historical markets of Iran. It is situated in the city center of the city of Tabriz.  It is also one of the oldest bazaars in the Middle East.  This World Heritage Site is also used for religious ceremonies of Iran. You can also visit many mosques that are behind this Bazar, one of them is Jome’ Mosque.

Vakil Mosque

The Vakil Mosque also known as Masjed-e Vakil is a mosque located in the city of Shiraz, Iran. It is situated next to the Vakil Bazaar, which is another famous place in Iran. Built between 1751 and 1773, the structure if the building is made in Iranian style.  Covering the area of 8,660 square meters, it has two Iwans, a night prayer hall, and open courts.  The tiles and walls are beautifully decorated with complex designs.

Vakil Bazaar

Vakil Bazar is situated next to Vakil Mosque and is located in the heart of the city Shiraz. It is the main market of the city. There are few mosques and Imamzadehs located near the bazaar. Vakil Bazaar comprises of bathhouses, caravansarais, courtyards, and old shops selling Persian handicrafts, spices, copper, rugs, and antiques.

Fin Garden

Fin Garden is also known as Bagh-e Fin. The garden is located in the city of Kashan, Iran. This is a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.  Considered as a historical Persian garden, the place is also a popular tourist site. It comprises of Kashan’s Fin Bath, water features, and cypress trees. The main yard is surrounded by 4 circular towers.

Tomb of Saadi Shirazi

The Tomb of Saadi is a mausoleum and a tomb dedicated to the Persian poet Saadi. It is commonly known as Saadeh. Located in the city of Shiraz it was built in the 13th century. Around the tomb on the walls are seven verses of Saadi’s poems. The tomb was destroyed in the 17thcentury; it was later rebuilt during 1950-1952 with a fusion of old and new architectural designs. The walls have the 7 verses of Saadi’s poems that attract tourists and make it a place to see in Iran.

Milad Tower

Milad Tower is also known by the name Tehran Tower. The tower is said to be the multi-purpose tower located in the city of Tehran, Iran. It is the 24th-tallest freestanding structure and the 6th tallest tower in the world and must to see in Iran as the head of the tower comprises of a pod with about twelve floors. The tower is an important part of the International Trade and Convention Center of Tehran. The other highlights of the tower are a convention center, a five-star hotel, an IT park, and a world trade center.