Nasir Ol-Molk Mosque, Shiraz, Iran

Shiraz

Known as the city of roses, gardens, poets and love.

Shiraz was one of the most influential cities in the medieval Islamic world and was the Iranian capital during the Zand dynasty, when many of its most beautiful buildings were built or restored.

Bas relief, Persepolis, Shiraz, Iran
Bas relief in Persepolis
Inside the Citadel, Shiraz, Iran, CD
The Citadel, Shiraz

Why visit Shiraz

The city has a number of tombs and gardens of which none are finer than the Bagh-e Eram garden, well-known for its cypress trees and a 19th century Qajar palace. Alexander the Great passed by on his travels sacking the nearby city of Persepolis as he did so, but even today it is an impressive ruin. Huge columns still stand and the craftsmanship that went into creating the bas-reliefs is still evident. Excursions from Shiraz can take in the tomb of Cyrus the Great at Pasargadae and the wonderful rock tombs and Zoroastrian temple at Naqsh-e Rustam.

Experiences

A selection of activities and experiences you could consider including in your holiday to Iran.

Persepolis, Marv Dasht, Iran

UNESCO Persepolis

Built by Darius the Great and then sacked by Alexander the Great, Persepolis is an impressive archaeological site.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Amir Chakhmaq, Yazd, Iran

Yazd

Visit the oasis town of Yazd renowned for its Zoroastrianism community and unique architecture.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Carpet, Iran

Persian Carpets

Explore the traditional centre of the carpet trade in Hamedan.

Khaqani Poet Statue, Tabriz, Iran

Tabriz Churches

Hidden away close to the Turkish border, visit the remote Armenian churches near Tabriz.

Shiraz, Iran

Shiraz

Visit Shiraz, the city of poets, and birthplace of Hafez and Sa’di.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Mosque, Isfahan, Iran

Isfahan

Isfahan’s central square is an architectural wonder, follow it with a stroll through the nearby sprawling bazaar.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

Paul Craven

Paul is the Conde Nast Traveller chosen Specialist for Central Asia and the Silk Route.

Being from a family with Army connections I can from an early age remember travelling. From camping in Europe and then later being sent to boarding school when we lived in Germany at the age of eight, complete with shorts, long socks, a cap and my suitcase. In appearance not too dissimilar to the children evacuated to the countryside during the blitz.

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