Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tehran, Iran

Today, you will go to your selected gateway Airport for your international flight to Tehran, Iran. Embark on an exclusive and unique small group journey through magnificent Persia and discover this country's rich history and archeological wonders. Upon arrival at IKA International Airport, meet and greet by Viantours' representative and be transferred to your hotel in the heart of Tehran. You will have time to refresh before embarking on an enthralling tour of this city brimming with culture and history.

Overnight: Tehran

Day 2: Tehran Sightseeing, flight to Shiraz

Welcome to the capital city of Iran, Tehran. It is a megacity generously steeped in history and stands as one of the largest cityscapes in the Middle East, where there is much to be discovered. Today, you will enjoy a full-day tour of Tehran, taking in the city's main sights. This morning starts with a visit to the sumptuous Golestan Palace Complex (UNESCO World Heritage Site), where you will enjoy a masterpiece from the Qajar era, embodying the perfect integration of Persian crafts and architecture with European influences. Next, you will take some time taking a stroll around the Tehran Grand Bazaar, located a few steps away from Golestan Palace and one of the world's largest covered ones. In the afternoon, you visit the National Museum of Iran, displaying the most impressive collection of prestigious relics and historical findings. The selection here displays the nation's rich cultural heritage and civilization. In the evening, before you are transferred to Tehran domestic airport for your flight to Shiraz, you will visit the magnificent Azadi Tower, the most famous iconic landmark of Tehran, commissioned to celebrate the 2500th anniversary of the Persian Empire.

Overnight: Shiraz

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 03: Shiraz Sightseeing

You will take a beautiful day of sightseeing to explore Shiraz's past and present today. In this charming city with exciting sites, you will first visit the Tomb of the Persian poet Hafez with its flower-filled gardens. Next, you will have time to explore and shop in the bustling Vakil Grand Bazaar. Before leaving the Bazaar, sample the local Saffron ice cream and the Shirazi Faloodeh. It is a delicious combination of rice noodles, iced rosewater, and sugar mixed with a touch of lemon juice. The afternoon will be devoted to discovering the colorfully decorated Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque (the Pink Mosque), where sunlight streams through its colored glasses and windows. Next is an exciting visit to the Eram Garden(UNESCO World Heritage site), an architectural marvel from the Qajar era and a precious gem among all the typical Persian Gardens in Shiraz with its sour orange and palm trees. Time permitting, for the rest of the afternoon, you will visit Hamzeh Shrine, a revered Shia shrine noted for the glittering mirror work adorning its central dome. After admiring the landmarks of Shiraz, you will be transferred to your hotel.

Overnight: Shiraz

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 04: Shiraz to Yazd

This morning, as soon as we have had our breakfast, we head out from Shiraz on a drive northeast to the desert city of Yazd. This memorable day takes you first to three magnificent Persian landmarks. Delve into 2500 years of Persian culture and civilization; your guide will lead you through the ruins of Persepolis (UNESCO World Heritage Site), which was once the Achaemenes Empire's ceremonial capital. Darius the Great founded this palatial complex in the 6th century BC. Persepolis embodies all the glory and the fall of the Persian Empire. Here, the Achaemenid kings received their subjects and celebrated the Persian New Year. You can pass through all the palaces in Persepolis and immerse yourself in the millennia of history and the tunnel of time. Later, proceed to Naghshe Rostam, where you will explore the ancient Achaemenid Necropolis and Sassanian Rock Reliefs. In the afternoon, continue to Yazd, and Then, in the old Fahadan District, you can walk through the winding alley of the Fahadan Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site) before checking in to your hotel.

Overnight: Yazd

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 05: Yazd Sightseeing, Drive to Isfahan

The incredible desert city of Yazd is renowned for its unique architecture, and it is regarded by UNESCO as one of the ancient towns on Earth, perfectly adapted to the harsh weather conditions of the surrounding desert. The Zoroastrian religion also survives here, where you visit the Temple of Eternal Fire. Afterward, you set out for the old Towers of Silence on the edge of the city, where, in the past decades, the bodies of deceased Zoroastrians were placed and exposed to scavenger birds, which, as per their beliefs, is the most sacred method of dealing with the dead. Next up is the Amir Chakhmaq Complex, where you will admire an awe-inspiring and prominent landmark comprising a large square, a caravanserai, a Mosque, a Water Reservoir, several wind catchers, and a Portal for Shia Religious Gatherings and ceremonies. Yazd is also best known for its sweets and confections. All Iranian and foreign visitors to this desert city must visit the local treasure of Haj Khalifa Confectionery next to the Amir Chakhmaq Square. Here, you can try the famous Iranian Baklava Pastries, Ghotab (Doughnut hole-shaped cookies), Lozenârgil (coconut diamonds), and Pashmak (cotton candy). In the afternoon, you will head out from Yazd on a pleasant drive west to the modern city of Isfahan. As the 17th-century capital of the Safavid Empire, Isfahan is, for many, may well be the climax of the journey. There is much to discover in this beautiful, dazzling capital of Ancient Persia.

Overnight: Isfahan

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 06: Isfahan Sightseeing

This day is dedicated to the exploration of one of the most glorious cities of Iran, Isfahan. Following breakfast, your guide will lead you on a fascinating sightseeing tour around the most brilliant attractions of Isfahan's historical sites. Indulge in Isfahan's sophisticated charms and discover Naghsh-e Jahan Square (UNESCO World Heritage Site), the world's second-largest square with four amazing landmarks at four sides: Imam Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Ali Qapu Palace, and Isfahan Grand Bazaar. Next up is Chehel Sotun Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site); Shah Abbas II built this graceful pavilion in the 17th century for entertainment and court receptions. In the afternoon, you will visit a unique Carpet Gallery to learn how to distinguish Persian carpets from fake ones. After a short break for tea and some sweets in one of the most beautiful Traditional Teahouses, you take a walk through the Isfahan Grand Bazaar and explore the best souvenirs of the country.

Overnight: Isfahan

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 07: Isfahan to Kashan

Following breakfast, you start your journey on an exciting day trip to Kashan. On a fantastic route, you will have the chance to visit the crimson-colored old Village of Abyaneh, one of the last surviving Zoroastrian places to visit. Then, you move to Kashan, a beautiful city, to see the Fin Garden (UNESCO World Heritage Site), one of the most beautiful Persian Gardens dating back to the 17th century. Then, continue exploring the awe-inspiring House of Boroujerdiha. You will be transferred to Tehran International Airport in the evening to catch your onward or homebound flight.

Overnight: No Accommodation

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 08: Kashan to Tehran Int' l Airport

Today marks the end of your tour to Persia.