Iran Travel Facts

The Basics

Country: Iran

Where is it?: ran is in the Middle East, bordering the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, and the Caspian Sea, between Iraq and Pakistan.

Why do people go here?: Contrary to popular conception feed to us by the meda, Iran is a spectacular destinations for any type of traveler looking to find the wonder of modern Persia. Although it was labeled as the “axis of evil,” you will be surprised about how safe you feel traveling in this country. Iran is home to many great culture and has many ancient influences that will keep a traveler smiling for the secret they discovered. Iran is actively courting tourism now.

Currency used: Rial

Country Code for Phones: 98

Area codes for Major Cities: Tehran 21

Religion: Shi’a Muslim 89%, Sunni Muslim 9%, Zoroastrian, Jewish, Christian, and Baha’i 2%

Population: 74 million

Ethnic Breakdown: Persian 51%, Azeri 24%, Gilaki and Mazandarani 8%, Kurd 7%, Arab 3%, Lur 2%, Baloch 2%, Turkmen 2%, other 1%

Government: Theocratic Republic (Islamic Republic)

Languages: Persian and Persian dialects 58%, Turkic and Turkic dialects 26%, Kurdish 9%, Luri 2%, Balochi 1%, Arabic 1%, Turkish 1%, other 2%

Travel Information

Major Cities: Tehran, Esfahan, Shiraz

Attractions: Esfahan, Persepolis

Accommodation: Iran Hostels

Tourism Office locations and links: Iran Tourism Office

Tips for Visiting

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Ali Sadr Caves, Gombad-Kavus

Health Issues: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is needed for tourists that came from places with threats of yellow fever transmission. Also, depending on the length of your stay, your health provider may give you vaccination against typhoid, hepatitis or rabies.

When to go f you can avoid the summer months, and attempt to come in spring or fall, you will enjoy Iran. Otherwise, the summer months will be oppressive with heat.

Common Phrases: Thank You: Mamnoon, How are you: Chetori?

Specific Events/Holidays: Iran is an Islamic country, governed by theocrats, who strictly observe the Islamic calendar. Holidays change from year to year. They observe Ramadan and Eid-Fetr, at the end of Ramadan. There are a few public holidays.

Getting Around: Distances in Iran are far, and with a short visa stay sometimes, it makes sense to travel by plane. If you’re staying close to Tehran, then buses run between the major cities.

Good to know: Iran has much to offer the traveler. The visa process can be a hassle, but once you’re in the country, you would be surprised how interesting and safe the country is.

Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into Iran is the Imam Khomeini International Airport.

Need more information?: Check out the Iran travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.