Iran Treasures Cultural Discovery
Tehran, Iran to Tehran, Iran
Home to some of the world's most renowned and best-preserved archaeological sites, Iran is a mecca for art, history, and culture. This 15-day itinerary explores the fascinating cities of Tehran, Shiraz, Yazd, and Isfahan, and showcases Iran's rich, textured past while visiting ancient ruins, palaces, and world-class museums. Wander vibrant bazaars, behold Iran's crown jewels, and visit dazzling mosques adorned with blue and aqua tile mosaics. With your local guide who has led trips here for over 23 years, be one of the few lucky travelers to discover this unique destination!
- Journey through Iran and visit four UNESCO-listed sites, including ancient Persepolis and historic Yazd
- Browse a colorful 18th-century bazaar full of Persian rugs, spices, copper handicrafts, and antiques
- Experience 2,500 years of history plus the infamous warmth and friendliness of the Persian people
Minimum Age: 16
- Educational and Learning
Day: 1, duration: 3
Laleh Hotel
With its prime location near the Carpet Museum and charming cafés, the 380-room Laleh International Hotel provides standard accommodations in Tehran. The property features lovely courtyards, a 24-hour coffee shop, helpful staff, generous breakfasts, and a lovely large park behind the hotel. Formerly an Intercontinental, the Laleh's nostalgic feel will transport you to a different time and place.
Day: 4, duration: 3Yazd Arg Hotel
Located near the sacred Towers of Silence, Yazd Arg-E-Jadid Hotel has pride of place in this deeply spiritual and mysterious region of Iran. This new hotel features spacious, comfortable rooms with en suite bathrooms fully stocked with toiletries. The breakfast and dinner buffets offer a wide selection of fresh food, and the hotel shop sells quality goods.
Day: 7, duration: 3Bozorg Hotel
The Bozorg Hotel's pleasant and welcoming vibe complements its modern comforts and amenities — including a restaurant, gym, and pool. The Bozorg's interior design is spectacular, with guests consistently noting its "classy" appeal. The property offers an excellent combination of comfort, luxury, and location — it is located next to the Tomb of Hafez and boasts gorgeous views of Shiraz.
Day: 10, duration: 3Abbasi Hotel
The Abbasi Hotel is a living piece of history. Its 300-year-old glory exhibits intricate tile work and the glittering turquoise dome of Chaharbagh Madresseh. The courtyard-facing guest rooms have a beautiful view of the lovely gardens, which are prettily lit at night. There's a coffee shop and teahouse, and the hotel's six restaurants offer traditional Iranian and continental dishes.
Day: 10, duration: 3Parsian Kowsar Hotel
Excellently located on the river near Isfahan's must-see sights, the Parsian Kowsar Hotel has 192 clean, comfortable rooms across two buildings. The hotel is proud of their ISO 22000 (Food Safety) certification and environmental efforts. Guests can enjoy the on-site café/bistro, brasserie, Turkish bath, sauna, tennis courts, and two restaurants.
Day: 13, duration: 1Negarestan Hotel
The Negarestan Hotel provides modern accommodations, comfort, and beautiful scenery amidst a dramatic mountain landscape. Past travelers spoke admirably about the tranquil and quiet environment the Negarestan provides in addition to its comfortable beds and large rooms. A small café and pool table make it a convenient place to unwind after a day of exploring the cultural wonders of Iran.
Day: 14, duration: 1Espinas Hotel
The elegant Espinas Hotel is consistently noted as one of the premier hotels in Tehran. Beyond the opulent lobby, the boutique-style rooms and suites are spacious and well appointed, with comfortable beds and ample en suite bathrooms. Guests looking to exercise while in Iran can enjoy the gym, spa, and indoor pool.
Saied Haji-Hadi
Hadi, a native of Iran, always dreamed of traveling and interacting with other cultures. After 23 years in tourism, Hadi has led over 285 tours for Western groups, and has held the position of Chairman of the Iranian Tour Guide Association (ITGA) for six years. Aside from leading tours, he spends considerable time exploring the nooks and crannies of Iran and other parts of the world. A diligent student of cultures and of life, Hadi is a warm and incredibly knowledgeable resource, the perfect person to impart understanding of Iranian culture on this cultural odyssey.
Cyrus Rasouli
Cyrus is a native of Iran and over his long career in the tourism industry, he has accompanied over 230 groups and has served on the board of directors for the Iranian Tour Guide Association (ITGA). Before making his way into tourism, Cyrus was a freelance merchant, book translator, and journalist, and earned an MA in History and a BA in Sociology and English. He has traveled to many countries throughout the world and loves nature, traveling and cultural studies.
Martin Regg Cohn
Martin Regg Cohn is a political columnist for the Toronto Star, Canada’s largest daily newspaper. A foreign correspondent for 11 years, he ran the Star’s Middle East and Asia bureaus, reporting from more than 40 countries — ranging from Afghanistan to Yemen with frequent trips to Iran. Nominated five times for Canada’s National Newspaper Award, he received an Asia Pacific Foundation fellowship to research Islam in Indonesia, and won the Amnesty International Media Award for his coverage from Sudan. He also lectured for New York Times Journeys in Iran and across the Middle East.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Reason #01
MT Sobek is an expert in Iran travel, with over five years' experience taking small groups into the country.
Reason #02Our team of local guides are true experts, including Saeid Haji-Hadi (aka Hadi), who has been leading tours in Iran for 23 years.
Reason #03This journey exposes travelers to the hospitality of Iranian people, while offering insight into the country's modern-day complexities.
ActivitiesCultural touring of historical and archaeological sites, including UNESCO-listed Persepolis and Pasargadae, plus visits to museums, mosques and bazaars.
LodgingComfortable accommodations blend modern and traditional flair, including 3 nights at a hotel steeped in 300 years of history with beautiful gardens.
ClimateApril and September temperatures will range from the high-50°s F to the mid-90°s F. Weather will typically be sunny with rain unlikely.
Who will meet me on arrival?An MT Sobek representative, who has been selected specifically to greet you and see you safely to our hotel.
Is it legal for Americans to travel to Iran?Even though the U.S. and Iran do not have diplomatic relations at this time, it is legal for Americans to travel to Iran.
Do I need a visa for Iran?Yes, we handle the visa for you and apply as a group.
Do I need to follow a special dress code for Iran?Women must cover their arms, head, and neck and wear a top garment that extends to mid-thigh. Men should not wear tank tops or shorts.
Can I make purchases in Iran due to sanctions?Yes, but most will need to be in cash, unless the vendor can run the credit card through Dubai. Carpets are exempt from sanctions.
What is the minimum age for this trip?The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
Day: 1, duration: 3
Laleh Hotel
With its prime location near the Carpet Museum and charming cafés, the 380-room Laleh International Hotel provides standard accommodations in Tehran. The property features lovely courtyards, a 24-hour coffee shop, helpful staff, generous breakfasts, and a lovely large park behind the hotel. Formerly an Intercontinental, the Laleh's nostalgic feel will transport you to a different time and place.
Day: 4, duration: 3Yazd Arg Hotel
Located near the sacred Towers of Silence, Yazd Arg-E-Jadid Hotel has pride of place in this deeply spiritual and mysterious region of Iran. This new hotel features spacious, comfortable rooms with en suite bathrooms fully stocked with toiletries. The breakfast and dinner buffets offer a wide selection of fresh food, and the hotel shop sells quality goods.
Day: 7, duration: 3Bozorg Hotel
The Bozorg Hotel's pleasant and welcoming vibe complements its modern comforts and amenities — including a restaurant, gym, and pool. The Bozorg's interior design is spectacular, with guests consistently noting its "classy" appeal. The property offers an excellent combination of comfort, luxury, and location — it is located next to the Tomb of Hafez and boasts gorgeous views of Shiraz.
Day: 10, duration: 3Abbasi Hotel
The Abbasi Hotel is a living piece of history. Its 300-year-old glory exhibits intricate tile work and the glittering turquoise dome of Chaharbagh Madresseh. The courtyard-facing guest rooms have a beautiful view of the lovely gardens, which are prettily lit at night. There's a coffee shop and teahouse, and the hotel's six restaurants offer traditional Iranian and continental dishes.
Day: 10, duration: 3Parsian Kowsar Hotel
Excellently located on the river near Isfahan's must-see sights, the Parsian Kowsar Hotel has 192 clean, comfortable rooms across two buildings. The hotel is proud of their ISO 22000 (Food Safety) certification and environmental efforts. Guests can enjoy the on-site café/bistro, brasserie, Turkish bath, sauna, tennis courts, and two restaurants.
Day: 13, duration: 1Negarestan Hotel
The Negarestan Hotel provides modern accommodations, comfort, and beautiful scenery amidst a dramatic mountain landscape. Past travelers spoke admirably about the tranquil and quiet environment the Negarestan provides in addition to its comfortable beds and large rooms. A small café and pool table make it a convenient place to unwind after a day of exploring the cultural wonders of Iran.
Day: 14, duration: 1Espinas Hotel
The elegant Espinas Hotel is consistently noted as one of the premier hotels in Tehran. Beyond the opulent lobby, the boutique-style rooms and suites are spacious and well appointed, with comfortable beds and ample en suite bathrooms. Guests looking to exercise while in Iran can enjoy the gym, spa, and indoor pool.
Saied Haji-Hadi
Hadi, a native of Iran, always dreamed of traveling and interacting with other cultures. After 23 years in tourism, Hadi has led over 285 tours for Western groups, and has held the position of Chairman of the Iranian Tour Guide Association (ITGA) for six years. Aside from leading tours, he spends considerable time exploring the nooks and crannies of Iran and other parts of the world. A diligent student of cultures and of life, Hadi is a warm and incredibly knowledgeable resource, the perfect person to impart understanding of Iranian culture on this cultural odyssey.
Cyrus Rasouli
Cyrus is a native of Iran and over his long career in the tourism industry, he has accompanied over 230 groups and has served on the board of directors for the Iranian Tour Guide Association (ITGA). Before making his way into tourism, Cyrus was a freelance merchant, book translator, and journalist, and earned an MA in History and a BA in Sociology and English. He has traveled to many countries throughout the world and loves nature, traveling and cultural studies.
Martin Regg Cohn
Martin Regg Cohn is a political columnist for the Toronto Star, Canada’s largest daily newspaper. A foreign correspondent for 11 years, he ran the Star’s Middle East and Asia bureaus, reporting from more than 40 countries — ranging from Afghanistan to Yemen with frequent trips to Iran. Nominated five times for Canada’s National Newspaper Award, he received an Asia Pacific Foundation fellowship to research Islam in Indonesia, and won the Amnesty International Media Award for his coverage from Sudan. He also lectured for New York Times Journeys in Iran and across the Middle East.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Reason #01
MT Sobek is an expert in Iran travel, with over five years' experience taking small groups into the country.
Reason #02Our team of local guides are true experts, including Saeid Haji-Hadi (aka Hadi), who has been leading tours in Iran for 23 years.
Reason #03This journey exposes travelers to the hospitality of Iranian people, while offering insight into the country's modern-day complexities.
ActivitiesCultural touring of historical and archaeological sites, including UNESCO-listed Persepolis and Pasargadae, plus visits to museums, mosques and bazaars.
LodgingComfortable accommodations blend modern and traditional flair, including 3 nights at a hotel steeped in 300 years of history with beautiful gardens.
ClimateApril and September temperatures will range from the high-50°s F to the mid-90°s F. Weather will typically be sunny with rain unlikely.
Who will meet me on arrival?An MT Sobek representative, who has been selected specifically to greet you and see you safely to our hotel.
Is it legal for Americans to travel to Iran?Even though the U.S. and Iran do not have diplomatic relations at this time, it is legal for Americans to travel to Iran.
Do I need a visa for Iran?Yes, we handle the visa for you and apply as a group.
Do I need to follow a special dress code for Iran?Women must cover their arms, head, and neck and wear a top garment that extends to mid-thigh. Men should not wear tank tops or shorts.
Can I make purchases in Iran due to sanctions?Yes, but most will need to be in cash, unless the vendor can run the credit card through Dubai. Carpets are exempt from sanctions.
What is the minimum age for this trip?The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
About MT Sobek
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.
Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
About MT Sobek
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go.
Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
