Mashhad, Iran-6-day-itinerary

Mashhad 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

Morning

  • Arrive at Mashhad International Airport (MHD)
  • Take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel ( approx. 30-40 minutes, 200,000 IRR)
  • Check-in at Hotel Parsis or similar

Afternoon

  • Visit the Imam Reza Shrine, a holy site for Shia Muslims (free admission, but dress modestly)
  • Explore the surrounding bazaar and try some local street food

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Khorasan Restaurant, serving traditional Iranian cuisine
  • Take a stroll around the shrine complex, which is beautifully lit up at night

Tips

  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting the shrine
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak prayer times (noon and afternoon)

Day 2: Mashhad’s History and Culture

Morning

Afternoon

  • Head to the Mashhad Museum (30,000 IRR admission)
  • Learn about the city’s history and see artifacts from the Safavid and Qajar dynasties

Evening

Tips

  • The museums may have limited English signage, so consider hiring a guide
  • Try to attend a cultural event or performance to get a deeper understanding of Iranian culture

Day 3: Nature and Recreation

Morning

  • Take a day trip to the Kooh-e-Sang Mountains ( approx. 1 hour drive, 500,000 IRR for transportation)
  • Hike in the mountains and enjoy the scenic views

Afternoon

  • Visit the Vakilabad Garden, a beautiful recreational spot
  • Relax and take a stroll around the gardens

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Bagh-e-Melli Restaurant, serving traditional Iranian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • Take a leisurely walk around the garden, which is beautifully lit up at night

Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothes for hiking
  • Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks for your day trip

Day 4: Shopping and Local Delights

Morning

  • Visit the Bazaar-e-Vakil, a traditional marketplace
  • Explore the stalls selling spices, sweets, and souvenirs

Afternoon

  • Try some local street food, such as falafel or shawarma
  • Visit the Mashhad’s Saffron Market, where you can buy high-quality saffron

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Shandiz Restaurant, serving traditional Iranian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • Take a stroll around the bazaar, which is bustling with activity in the evening

Tips

  • Haggle when shopping at the bazaar
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak prayer times (noon and afternoon)

Day 5: Day Trip to Nishapur

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Nishapur ( approx. 2.5 hours drive, 1,000,000 IRR for transportation)
  • Visit the tomb of Omar Khayyam, the famous Persian poet

Afternoon

  • Explore the ancient city of Nishapur and its archaeological sites
  • Visit the Kamal-ol-Molk Mausoleum, a beautiful example of Iranian architecture

Evening

  • Return to Mashhad and enjoy dinner at Toranj Restaurant, serving traditional Iranian cuisine
  • Take a leisurely walk around the city, reflecting on your day trip

Tips

  • Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks for your day trip
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting the tomb of Omar Khayyam

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Check-out of your hotel and head to Mashhad International Airport (MHD)

Transportation

  • Taxi: widely available, but agree on the fare beforehand
  • Shuttle bus: available from the airport to the city center
  • Private car and driver: can be hired for day trips or longer periods

Things to Know

  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites
  • Try to avoid visiting during peak prayer times (noon and afternoon)
  • Learn some basic Persian phrases, such as “hello” (سلام) and “thank you” (متشکرم)

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions
  • Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks when exploring the city or going on day trips
  • Try to attend a cultural event or performance to get a deeper understanding of Iranian culture