Iran Private 9-Day Tour

Embark on an enriching journey through the core of Persia over 9 days with this private tour of Iran. Experience imperial palaces, serene deserts, splendid mosques, and cities alive with poetry, promising an enchanting adventure.

Activity Details

Day 1: Tehran – Kashan

At the designated time, we’ll collect you from your hotel in Tehran or Imam Khomeini International Airport to commence our scenic trip to the delightful city of Kashan, which is about 3 hours away.

The journey begins with a visit to the stunning Fin Garden, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where cypress trees, pools, and subterranean water channels create a tranquil oasis. Next, we’ll admire the Agha Bozorg Mosque, an architectural marvel noted for its sunken courtyard and harmonious symmetry.

We will then explore the interior of the Sultan Amir Ahmad Hammam, richly adorned with turquoise tiles and magnificent domes. To conclude our day, we’ll discover two significant structures from the Qajar era: the Tabatabaei and Borujerdi houses, where intricate stained glass and elaborate frescoes invite you to a historical narrative.

Finally, we’ll check into our hotel for the night, where dinner can be enjoyed either on-site or at a nearby restaurant.

Day 2: Kashan – Meybod – Chak Chak – Kharanaq – Yazd

After savoring breakfast at the hotel, we’ll set off towards Yazd, the desert city, embarking on an 8-hour odyssey with intriguing stops along the way.

Our first stop will be the Meybod Yakhchal, a captivating adobe ice house exemplifying Persian engineering. Next, we’ll visit the Narin Castle, a majestic mud-brick fortification offering breathtaking views of the surrounding arid terrain.

Venturing into the mountains, we’ll discover Chak Chak, a revered Zoroastrian pilgrimage site home to a sacred spring nestled within a cave. Our final stop will be the deserted village of Kharanaq, characterized by its winding alleys and crumbling towers, which resonate with echoes of history.

As the sun sets, we’ll arrive in Yazd, where a night in a traditional hotel awaits. You’ll have the evening at your leisure for dinner and relaxation.

Day 3: Yazd

After breakfast, we’ll dedicate the day to thoroughly exploring Yazd, a city ingeniously adapted to its desert environment. Our adventure will begin at the Jameh Mosque, distinguished by its soaring minarets and striking tilework.

We'll meander through the Amir Chakhmaq complex, a grand square showcasing symmetrical architectural beauty. Following this, we’ll visit the legendary Prison of Alexander, veiled in myths and tales.

Later, we’ll stop at the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, where an eternal flame has flickered for over 1500 years. To gain insight into water management in dry climates, we’ll visit the Water Museum, illustrating the use of qanats and subterranean irrigation. We'll conclude the day at the Towers of Silence, where the tranquility of the desert embodies spirituality.

You'll have the evening free for rest and dinner at your leisure in Yazd.

Day 4: Yazd – Pasargadae – Naqsh-e Rostam – Shiraz

After breakfast, we’ll depart for Shiraz, the city famed for its poets. Before reaching our final destination, we’ll stop twice to appreciate the grandeur of the ancient Persian Empire.

Our first visit will be to Pasargadae, the resting place of Cyrus the Great, chosen founder of the Achaemenid Empire and a symbol of cultural acceptance. Next, we’ll explore Naqsh-e Rostam, a cliffside necropolis housing the tombs of four Persian kings alongside impressive reliefs.

Arriving in Shiraz by night, you can enjoy a comforting dinner and overnight rest in a traditional hotel.

Day 5: Shiraz

Following breakfast at the hotel, we’ll set out to visit one of Iran’s most famous landmarks: the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, affectionately termed the Pink Mosque, renowned for its captivating morning light. It truly tantalizes the senses!

Continuing, we'll explore the Vakil Complex, erected during the Zand dynasty. We’ll stroll through the mosque, hammam, and bazaar, immersing ourselves in aromas of saffron and rosewater. We’ll also visit the Karim Khan Citadel, which served as royal quarters in the 18th century.

In the afternoon, we’ll pay homage to the renowned poet Hafez at his mausoleum, set amidst serene gardens, orange trees, and the lingering beauty of his verses.

The day concludes with the option for dinner on your own and a restful night in Shiraz.

Day 6: Shiraz – Persepolis – Isfahan

After breakfast, we’ll travel to the pivotal archaeological site of Persepolis. This ancient ceremonial capital of the Persian Empire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of reliefs, columns, and stairways that narrate the empire’s magnificent history.

Next, we’ll journey on to Isfahan, well-known for its stunning bridges and turquoise-hued domes. Upon arrival, we'll take an evening stroll through the beautifully lit Naqsh-e Jahan Square, recognized as one of the largest squares globally, exemplifying exquisite Islamic urban design.

Afterward, you may choose to dine independently before retiring to the hotel for the night.

Day 7: Isfahan

After breakfast, we’ll begin our exploration of Isfahan, often referred to as “half the world.” Our initial stop is Naqsh-e Jahan Square to admire its daytime beauty.

We'll tour the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, known for its dome that shifts color with the sunlight, and the grand Shah Mosque, a pinnacle of Persian architectural artistry. We’ll also ascend the Ali Qapu Palace for panoramic views of the square.

Next is a visit to the Qeysarieh Bazaar, where local artisans craft metalwork, miniatures, and carpets. Our day ends at the Chehel Sotoun Palace, with its stunning mirrors and frescoes reflecting the brilliance of the Safavid period.

Evening time is yours for dinner and an overnight stay in Isfahan.

Day 8: Isfahan

Following breakfast, we’ll visit the Jameh Mosque of Isfahan, an embodiment of Islamic art evolution spanning over a millennium.

We’ll continue to the Armenian quarter, stopping at the Vank Cathedral, noted for its striking frescoes that harmonize European and Eastern styles. A visit to its museum will shed light on the history of this community in Iran.

Strolling across the scenic Si-o-se-pol and Khaju bridges, both exquisite architectural feats over the Zayandeh River, we’ll conclude at the Music Museum, where you can observe traditional instruments and perhaps enjoy a live performance.

You'll finish the day with dinner at your discretion and overnight stay at the hotel in Isfahan.

Day 9: Isfahan – Tehran

After breakfast, enjoy some free time in the morning to explore the Isfahan bazaar for souvenirs like carpets, miniatures, or Persian pottery. We’ll then depart back for Tehran at the arranged time, with arrival depending on your flight schedule.

Accommodation Info

This itinerary provides 8 nights of accommodations with breakfast in double rooms at well-appointed 3-star hotels:

• Kashan (1 night): Ashkoob Traditional Hotel or similar
• Yazd (2 nights): Shahre Jahan Traditional Hotel or similar
• Shiraz (2 nights): Forough Hotel or similar
• Isfahan (3 nights): Isfahan Traditional Hotel or similar

Price Note

• Anyone wishing to have a single room must contact the local team post-booking for additional fees.
• Children under 2 years can join this tour free if they share a room with two adults, without counting towards the overall group size. Note that only one child is permitted per double room.

Airport Pickup

For your convenience, a private pick-up service will be available at Imam Khomeini International Airport on the first day at your specified time. On the final day, we will depart from Isfahan according to your flight timing from Tehran.

6-Day Tour