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Tour price:
from 2090 €
Perfect Persia:
Visits: Tehran, Qazvin, Masooleh, Bandar-e Anzali, Zanjan,
Ardabil, Tabriz, Sarein, Julfa, Kaleibar, Hamadan, Kermanshah,
Khuram abad, Ahvaz, Dezfool, Shooshtar, Chogha Zanbil, Susa,
Bishapoor, Shiraz, Persepolis, Yazd, Isfahan, Kashan, Abyaneh,
Natanz, Mashad, Zeinoddin, Sarab
By selecting this tour, you can gather a comprehensive knowledge
about Persia. You will visit most of the beautiful cities of
Iran and their outstanding attractions. You will also become
familiar with the past and present history of our country.
"Perfect Tour of Persia " covers the cities from north to south
of Iran with completely different climatic conditions.
Day 1: Arrival In Tehran
Upon your pre-dawn arrival in Tehran airport, you will be
cordially received by our representative carrying our logo show
card (transfer information) who will direct you for transfer to
your hotel. You will have time to rest and relax before your
morning tour of Tehran commences.
Tehran, a modern megalopolis, prides itself in having unique
museums with immense and unrivaled collections and artifacts
dating from the earliest onset of history to the present era.
Your tour begins with a trip to the Archeological Museum, one of
the rare places in the world where you will have the special
opportunity of visiting and experiencing the “evolution of
mankind” through the marvelous display of historical relics.
Next on the agenda is your very much-awaited chance to savor the
distinctive flavor of Iranian cuisine. Lunch will be set in an
exquisite traditional Iranian restaurant where you will sample a
wide range of delightful Persian dishes and desserts.
Afterwards, you will visit a world of jewels in a priceless
Crown Jewels Museum one of which is one of the two greatest
diamonds, Darya-e-Noor (sea of light).
At the end of the day, you will get a chance to see a variety of
Persian hand-woven carpets and rugs in the Carpet Museum which
houses more than 100 spectacular pieces from all over Iran. On
top of that, you will also be given an insight into the history
of these carpets. Stay overnight in Tehran.
Day 2: Drive To Masooleh
Drive to the ancient village of Masooleh and visit the
historical city of Qazvin en route. Qazvin is the birthplace of
numerous prominent Iranian scientists and philosophers such as
Dehkhoda. Near this town is the historical castle of Alamoot,
which is the unique memory of the God of Alamoot (Hasan Sabbah).
The fortress was destroyed on December 15, 1256 by Hulagu Khan
as part of the Mongol offensive on Islamic southwest Asia. After
visiting Alamoot castle you will depart for Masooleh and be
accommodated in one of the memorable hotels of the north of Iran
in the middle of the forests.
Day 3: Masooleh, Drive To Bandar-e Anzali
This day tour you will visit the historical village of Masooleh.
Its architecture is one of the inquests in the world which is
registered in UNESCO. Masooleh architecture is unique. The
buildings have been built into the mountain and are
interconnected. Courtyards and roofs both serve as pedestrian
areas similar to streets. Masooleh does not allow any motor
vehicles to enter, due to its unique layout. It is the only
village in Iran with such a prohibition. However, the small
streets and many stairs simply also wouldn't make it possible
for vehicles to enter.
Yellow clay coats the exterior of most buildings in Masooleh.
This allows for better visibility in the fog.
Then you will visit the Anzali swamp which is one of the most
beautiful and biggest swamps in the world. There are lots of
beautiful flowers such as water lily, lots of unique birds and
the silence there will hush you. Stay overnight in Anzali.
Day 4: Drive To Ardabil
You will depart for Ardabil. En rout you will visit the port of
Astara. There is also a city with this name just on the opposite
side of the border, within the Republic of Azerbaijan. The
northern Astara (in present-day Azerbaijan) was ceded from
Persia by the Golestan Treaty of 1813 between Russia and Persia.
Astara is an area where Zoroaster may have visited. Its history
dates back to 6,000 years ago. You will see the most beautiful
coasts of the Caspian Sea. Your tour will be continued through
Heiran Strait where you can visit one of the best Iran
landscapes. Stay overnight in Ardabil.
Day 5: Ardabil, Sarein
Ardabil is a historical, beautiful and unforgettable city which
is located in the skirts of Sabalan Mountain (the bride of Iran
Mountains). In this city the Safavid dynasty took place. You
will visit the mausoleum of Sheikh Safi-ad-Din-e-Ardabili. It is
an impressive ancient monument, comprising the following
components: the mausoleums of Sheikh Safi and Shah Isma'il,
Chini khaneh (meaning the house of chinaware), a mosque, Jannat
Sara (meaning the house of paradise), Khanaqah (the house of
Dervishes), Cheragh Khaneh (the house of lamps), Shahid khaneh
(the house of martyrs) and Chelleh Khaneh (the place where
devotees shut themselves up during the forty days of Lent). The
mausoleum of Sheikh Safi, the famous dome of which is called
"Allah-Allah" has an octagonal interior.
Near Ardabil (25 KM) is the city of Sarein which is well-known
for its spas. There you can enjoy the remedial benefits of those
spas. Stay overnight in Sarein.
Day 6: Drive To Tabriz
Move toward Tabriz. En rout you will go through Sarab town and
enjoy the beautiful nature of that region and the plutonian
mountain of Sabalan. The mountain is known for its beautiful
vistas, including the Shirvan gorge, where few climbers ever
venture. You will also see Sahand mountains. It is one of the
highest mountains in Iranian Azerbaijan. The Sahand mountains
are directly south of Tabriz, the highest peak of which at an
altitude of 3,750 m. This evening is free at your leisure. Stay
overnight in Tabriz.
Day 7: An Excursion to Julfa and Kaleybar
Take a trip to the historical border city of Julfa which is
located near the Aras River and the fascinating forests of
Arasbaran. Julfa is the stronghold of the Armenian Christians
who possess a rich and unique culture of their own. You will
visit the ancient churches and by driving to Kaleibar be
awe-inspired by the citadel of Babak-e-khoramdin and last but
not least you will get a rare opportunity to explore Mazdakian
culture. Drive back to Tabriz. Stay overnight in Tabriz.
Day 8: Tabriz
Azerbaijan is home to one of the most cultured and bravest races
in Iran, the Azaris. Be impressed by the profundity and richness
of Azeri culture, language, music, dance and literature. It will
be a wonderful opportunity for you to rub shoulders with the
Azaris and learn more about the origins of the Constitution
Revolution. You will visit Tabriz and see the impressive tomb of
Shahriar, the most famous Persian and Azeri poet. A trip to the
following should not be missed and you will also visit the
exotic bazaar with an interesting array of ethnic crafts on
sale. See the exquisite Jameh and Kabood Mosques and explore the
interesting collections of the Azerbaijan and Constitution
Revolution Museums. After lunch, you will be transported to the
fascinating village of Kandovan and be amazed by its unique and
picturesque architecture. Kandovan is located in the westward of
Tabriz. After passing the city of Oskoo and beautiful
mountainous scenery we will reach this marvelous village.
The special architecture is the reason of its universal
reputation. Its dwellers carved the rocks of mountains and
settled their lives there. The archeologists have estimated the
antiquity of this village to 3000 years ago. The main activities
of people in this splendid village are ranching, husbandry and
gardening. The scene of piping in the rocks of the mountain
indicates the co-existence of human being and its surrounding
environment. Kandovan is a beautiful sample of presence and
using of nature in men’s life. Stay overnight in Tabriz.
Day 9: Drive To Zanjan
Head for Zanjan and get a chance to see Uroomiah Lake which
covers an immense 140km and reaches 5 to 6m in depth. This lake
possesses 102 big and small islands and is the second largest
saline lake in the world. Step into the Takht-e Suleiman and
have your breath taken away by the Sassanid fire temples
recognized by UNESCO. Your accommodation will be in Zanjan.
Day 10: Zanjan, Drive To Hamadan
Zanjan is one of the centers of handicrafts production in Iran.
In this city, you will get to visit the Safavid bazaar of the
city. Then depart for the city of Hamadan. En route, you will
visit the Gonbad-e Soltaniyeh which is one of the most
magnificent monuments used to be the capital of Ilkhanid rulers
of Persia in the 14th century. Its name translates as "the
Imperial". In 2005, UNESCO listed Soltaniyeh as one of the World
Heritage Sites. In the evening you will visit Ganjnameh that
hosts 2 Achaemenian inscriptions and had a nice landscape. Stay
overnight in Hamadan.
Day 11: Hamadan
Hamadan is believed to be amongst the oldest Iranian cities and
one of the oldest in the world. Hamadan is a green mountainous
area on the foothills of the 3574-meter Alvand Mountain, in the
mid west of Iran. The city is 1850 meters above sea level.
Tour the mausoleums of the philosopher/mathematician Ibn Sina
(Avicenna), and Baba Taher.
Ibn Sina often referred to by his Latinized name Avicenna was a
Persian physician, philosopher, and scientist who was born in
980 in Kharmaithen near Bukhara, now in Uzbekistan (then
Persia), and died June 1037 in Hamadan, Persia (Iran). Baba
Taher is known as one of the most revered and respectable early
poets in Persian literature. Most of his life is clouded in
mystery.
Also, visit the Shir-e Sangi (the Stone Lion) resting in the
central square. When first built, this statue had a twin
counterpart for which they both constituted the old gate of the
city. The Dervish Monastery of Gonbad-e-Alavian dates from the
twelfth century and is noted for its brilliant stucco designs.
Later, tour the shrine of Esther & Mordecai, the most important
Jewish pilgrimage site in Iran. A Jewish presence in Hamadan
remains today.
In the evening you will visit one of the unique phenomena in the
world, Alisadr Cave, which is one of the biggest water caves.
The cave was originally discovered during the reign of Darius I
(521-485 BC) which can be verified by an old inscription at the
entrance of the tunnel. However, the knowledge of the existence
of the tunnel was lost, and only rediscovered in 1978 when a
local shepherd followed the tunnel searching for water or a lost
goat. Stay overnight in Hamadan.
Day 12: An Excursion To Kermanshah
Drive westward to Kermanshah. Carry on the old caravan route to
Bistoon dating back to the Middle Paleolithic. The Achaemenian
inscriptions offer details in 1,200 lines about the battles of
Darius the Great who fought against the governors trying to
dismantle the Empire originally founded by Cyrus. This was the
site where the decisive battle took place, leaving the famous
Tablets of Darius. You will visit the Anahita Temple-the mother
goddess of abundance and guardian of water in ancient Persia.
Nearby in the village of Sahneh you can visit the tomb of Ostad
Khalil Alinejad the best player of Tanboor in the world.
In Kermanshah visit the Sassanian rock carvings of
Tagh-e-Bostan. These bas-reliefs, cut from the stone cliff,
depict royal scenes of battles and hunts reflecting the glorious
history of the Sassanid Kings. Stay overnight in Kermanshah.
Day 13: Drive To Susa
Proceed to Susa and go through the cities of Khoram Abad and
Dezfool on the way. The former is the center of Lorestan
Province, inhabited by the Lors, which is one of the oldest
races in Iran who are known for their warm hospitality, rich
history and culture. The city of Khoram Abad is dominated by the
Falak-ol-Aflak Castle. This gigantic structure was built during
the Sassanid era (226–651). Your accommodation will be in the
historical city of Susa.
Day 14: Drive To Ahvaz
The remnants and the historical relics of Susa are testament to
the fact that this city was established 7000 years before
Christ. This is the region where one of the first governments of
the world was formed, resulting in the merger between the two
cultures of the Iranian plateau and Mesopotamia. Pay homage to
the tomb of Daniel, the Jewish prophet, which has attracted a
steady flow of pilgrims from all over the Middle East. Next, be
enchanted by the exquisite beauty of the Apadana palace and the
historical castle of Susa. Fill your imagination with wonder
with a visit to the magnificent Chogha Zanbil temple. It is one
of the few extant ziggurats outside of Mesopotamia (the other is
Sialk). Archaeological excavations undertaken between 1951 and
1962 revealed the site again, and the ziggurat is considered to
be the best preserved example in the world. In 1979, Choqa
Zanbil became the first Iranian site to be inscribed on the
UNESCO World Heritage List. Then, visit the charming Shooshtar
waterfalls and historical bridges. You will be accommodated in
the city of Ahvaz for the night.
Day 15: Drive To Shiraz
Depart Ahvaz for Shiraz where you can delight yourself in many
of the beauties in this city. You will visit the historical
relics of Sarab-e-Bahram, Bishapoor, Chogan strait
Bishapoor is an ancient city situated south of modern Faliyan,
on the ancient road between Persis and Elam. The road linked the
Sassanid capitals Istakhr (very close to Persepolis) and
Ctesiphon. Bishapoor was built near a river crossing and at the
same site there is also a fort with rock-cut reservoirs and a
river valley with six Sassanid rock relieves. Stay overnight in
Shiraz.
Day 16: Shiraz
Shiraz is crowned as the heartland of Persian culture and this
city of sophistication will never fail to conjure up images of
roses and nightingales, gardens and poetry. This gorgeous city
in the province of Fars is home to famous poets such as Hafez
and Sa'adi and historical sites from different eras stretching
back 6,000 years ago can be found.
Early in the morning, relish in the highlights of Shiraz when it
was the capital of Iran during the Zand Dynasty. Be inspired by
the glorious Karim Khan palace, the splendid Vakil mosque, Vakil
Bazaar and Saray-e-moshir with its splendid architecture and
interesting ethnic souvenir shops, Nasir Almolk mosque.
Next, you will stop for a mouth-watering Iranian lunch at one of
the traditional restaurants of Shiraz (Hammam-e-Vakil if
possible).
In the evening, you will visit Ali-Ebn-e-Hamzeh and be prepared
to marvel at its beauties. Take a stroll through the Jahan Nama
Garden and witness its tall and proud cedars.
Not forgetting the two famous Persian poets, Hafiz and Sa'adi,
whose mysterious poems are everlasting in the Persian language,
you will get a chance to pay homage to their tombs.
Finally visit the Delgosha Garden and Khajoy-e-Kermani tomb from
where the perspective of the mysterious city of Shiraz will
perpetuate in your mind. At night have dinner in a nomadic
restaurant (Yord cultural complex) and immerse yourself in the
world of the valiant Persian nomads. Stay overnight in Shiraz.
Day 17: An Excursion To Persepolis
Be prepared to be inspired by the magnificence of Persepolis.
This gem of ancient Persia which dates back 2530 years ago is
the result of the exquisite works of a conglomeration of fine
artists and architects from various nations under the Achaemenid
Empire.
Next, you will visit Koh-e-Rahmat which is sided east of
Persepolis and considered as a sacred mountain in ancient
Persia.
Followed by Necropolis where you will marvel at the massive
tombs of Old Persian kings. Necropolis is a collection of a
variety of awe-inspiring historical relics from different
pre-Islamic eras. Stay overnight in Shiraz.
Day 18: Drive To Zeinoddin Caravanserai
Depart by surface to Zeinoddin a Safavid Caravanserai in the
heart of desert which is restored in the best way possible and
got 2 awards from UNESCO in 2005 and 2006. On the way we will
have short stops in Pasargadae to visit the most important
monument there which is undoubtedly the tomb of Cyrus the Great,
the originator of the greatest emperorship 500 years AD. Also
you will visit the bas relief of the Wing Man and get familiar
with its historical elucidations.
Then head to Abarqu to visit its traditional cisterns,
ice-stories and 4500 years old cypress tree. Some trees in Iran
are symbol of holiness; people aspire in their heart and fasten
pieces to its branches. You will enjoy staying overnight in
calming atmosphere in the middle of the desert with its shining
stars blinking.
Day 19: Drive To Yazd
Drive to Yazd, the oldest adobe city in the world which is
surrounded by the 4000m summit of Shirkooh and two majestic
deserts of Iran, Dasht-e-Kavir and Kavir-e-Loot. This ancient
city is furnished with mosques of stunning beauty. The
co-existence of the splendid fire temples and the holy sites of
different religions astonish every visitor.
Today’s tour includes visiting the Dakhmeh (tower of
silence), fire temple of the Zoroastrians, henna pounding work
shops and the Amir Chakhmagh complex. From the minarets of this
complex, you will get a breath-taking perspective of the oldest
adobe city.
Lunch will be served at the Hammam-e-Khan traditional
restaurant.
Towards the end of the day, you will visit the marvelous Water
museum, Jameh mosque and Doulat Abad Garden. Stay overnight in
Yazd.
Day 20: Drive To Isfahan
On this day, you will traverse 300 km from Yazd to Isfahan which
is in the vicinity of Dasht-e-Kavir and the attractive city of
Nain. Nain is known as the city of cisterns and possesses around
80 cisterns. You will get a chance to visit one of the oldest
and most important mosques of Persian Islamic architecture. Stay
overnight in Isfahan.
Day 21: Isfahan
Isfahan, the legendary city which never fails to enchant its
visitors, is the pearl of traditional Islamic archeology. This
city is revived by the works of contemporary artists.
Isfahan prides itself in having fascinating historical garden
palaces. Legend has it that the city was founded at the time of
Tahmourass or Keykavous and because of its glories has been
entitled “Half the World”.
Your full day tour includes the famed Imam Square
(Naqsh-e-Jahan), a huge square second in the world to Beijing's
Tiananmen Square. Tour the architectural marvels of Sheikh
Lotfollah and Imam Mosques, Aliqapu Palace, Chehel Sutoon and
Hasht Behesht Palaces, and also visit one of the most famous
bazaars in Iran, where you can purchase the arts & crafts for
which Isfahan is so well renowned. Stay overnight in Isfahan.
Day 22: An excursion to Kashan and Abyaneh
Today, you will visit the UNESCO recognized village of Abyaneh,
located at the foot of Mount Karkas and in the vicinity of
desert. Appreciate the serenity of this quaint village with its
splendid archaeology and meet the dwellers who speak, live and
dress in the original Persian style.
Next, hop on to Kashan and visit Tabatabaiha and Borojerdiha
house and some other historical places specially chosen by your
tour guide and be acquainted with the previous century’s
architecture, the Qajar era. Return back to Esfahan and stay
overnight there.
Day 23: Isfahan
Isfahan’s Jameh mosque holds in itself the passage of several
centuries of historical Islamic evolution. This mosque is a
gallery of Islamic architecture in which the progress of the
architecture from the outset of Islam till recent times is
evident. Then we will visit Vank Church which is one of the most
beautiful Armenian churches in the world and will undoubtedly
capture the attention of every Christian. Your day will conclude
with a visit to Monar Jomban, the tomb of a Sufi with its
shaking minarets and some historical bridges. Finally you will
fly to Mashad and stay overnight there.
Day 24: Mashad
Mashad is a city where the Shiite Imam Reza was martyred and
thus is an important site for Shiite Muslim Pilgrims. It is the
first holy shrine in Iran and is a huge complex. You will enjoy
full day city tour in Mashad (Imam Reza Holy Shrine, Ferdosi
Tomb, Nader Shah Museum). After visiting the holy shrine you
will head to Tus to visit the tomb of Ferdosi, the great epic
poet of the 10th century A.D. who has written great epic of
Shahnameh or literally "Letter Of King" in which we have stories
of Rostam and Sohrab which is as great as Illiad and Odyssey of
Homer in western culture. After that you will visit Harounieh, a
nice structure with unknown function in the old times. Finally
you will have a night travel by train to Tehran.
Day 25: Tehran
Embark on a tour to the Golestan Palace, known as the "Rose
Garden". Constructed as a residence during the Qajar Dynasty,
the Palace complex offers an oasis of silence and shade in the
heart of Tehran. The last two Pahlavi Kings coronation
ceremonies were held in the Palace, and much of its former
splendor is on display. Then visit Sa'ad Abad Complex with an
immense 1,100,000 square meters and 18 magnificent historical
palaces (2 of which you will visit) will undoubtedly leave a
lasting impression on you.
Subsequently, you will be acquainted with the world of Iranian
arts with a trip to the Reza Abbasi Museum which boasts a
diverse collection of different art forms. Your Tehran excursion
will end at the Ceramic Museum where you will be able to witness
its construction with glorious ancient archaeology. Your final
afternoon in Tehran is at your leisure to do any last minute
shopping or exploring. Stay overnight in Tehran.
Day 26: Tehran
Last but not least, depart Iran – the land of warmth and
hospitality with fond memories.
Tour Services
1. Iran visa
2. 25 nights stay in middle class hotels
3. Transportation vehicle for 26 days all across Iran during the
trip
4. Experienced English speaking guide for 26 days
5. Breakfast and lunch
6. Domestic flights
7. All the entrance fees
8. Special offers
9.Transfer by guide
Not
included in the tour price:
- International flights
- Tips and all personal expenses
- Single room supplements
- Eventual petrol surcharges
- Travel insurrance
Tour Timetable
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