Mashhad, Iran 6 Day Itinerary

Mashhad, Iran 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Mashhad International Airport
  • Take a taxi or bus to your hotel ( approx. 30-40 minutes)
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Visit the nearby Imam Reza Shrine, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Iran (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Explore the Bazaar-e Vakil, a traditional marketplace with various shops and stalls selling souvenirs, carpets, and spices (free admission)
  • Try some local street food for lunch at Kebabi Ali or Shandiz Restaurant

Evening

  • Enjoy a relaxing stroll in the beautiful Koohsangi Park
  • For dinner, head to Toos Restaurant, serving traditional Iranian cuisine
  • Stay overnight at Hotel Parsis or Hotel Mashhad

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the Nader Shah Museum, showcasing the history of Iran’s Qajar dynasty ( approx. 500,000 IRR admission)
  • Stop by the nearby Mashhad University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Iran (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Explore the Ferdowsi University, another prominent university in Mashhad (free admission)
  • Visit the Tomb of Ferdowsi, a famous Persian poet (free admission)

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Iranian dinner at Dariush Restaurant
  • Watch a live music or dance performance at Razavi Hall ( ticket prices vary)
  • Stay overnight at your chosen hotel

Day 3: Nature and Leisure

Morning

  • Take a day trip to the beautiful Tus Village, located about 20 km north of Mashhad (approx. 1 hour drive)
  • Hike in the scenic Binalood Mountains or visit the Tus Waterfall

Afternoon

  • Return to Mashhad and relax at your hotel
  • Visit the Mashhad City Mall, a modern shopping center with various stores and restaurants

Evening

  • Dine at Shadi Restaurant, serving international cuisine
  • Take a leisurely walk in the Laleh Park
  • Stay overnight at your chosen hotel

Day 4: Spiritual Significance

Morning

  • Visit the Goharshad Mosque, a beautiful mosque with stunning architecture (free admission)
  • Explore the Imam Reza Shrine Museum, showcasing Islamic art and history (approx. 500,000 IRR admission)

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll in the peaceful Bagh-e Mellat park
  • Visit the Tomb of Sheikh Baha’i, a famous Iranian philosopher and architect (free admission)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Sofreh Khane Sonati, serving traditional Iranian cuisine
  • Attend a prayer ceremony or spiritual event at the Imam Reza Shrine (free admission)
  • Stay overnight at your chosen hotel

Day 5: Excursion to Nishapur

Morning

  • Take an early morning bus or taxi to Nishapur (approx. 2 hours drive)
  • Visit the Tomb of Omar Khayyam, a famous Persian poet and mathematician (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Explore the Nishapur Historic City, with its ancient architecture and scenic views (free admission)
  • Return to Mashhad in the evening

Evening

  • Dine at Khorram Restaurant, serving traditional Iranian cuisine
  • Relax at your hotel or take a stroll in the nearby park
  • Stay overnight at your chosen hotel

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Check-out of your hotel and head to Mashhad International Airport (approx. 30-40 minutes drive)
  • Depart from Mashhad

Things to Know

  • Iran uses the Rial (IRR) as its currency, but USD and EUR are widely accepted.
  • Respect local dress codes and customs, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Learn some basic Persian phrases to interact with locals.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.

Transportation

  • Taxis: readily available, but agree on the fare before you start your journey.
  • Buses: an affordable option for shorter distances, with tickets starting from 10,000 IRR.
  • Private car rentals or drivers can be hired for day trips or excursions.

Tips and Other Information

  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am and 4-6 pm) to minimize traffic congestion.
  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Respect the local environment and do not litter.
  • Iran is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to ensure your safety.

Accommodation Options

  • Hotel Parsis: a 4-star hotel with comfortable rooms and a great location
  • Hotel Mashhad: a 3-star hotel offering affordable rates and decent amenities

Restaurants

  • Kebabi Ali: serving delicious kebabs and traditional Iranian dishes
  • Shandiz Restaurant: offering a variety of local cuisine, including soups and stews
  • Toos Restaurant: serving traditional Iranian food with a modern twist