Shiraz, Iran-5-day-itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Shiraz
Morning
- Visit the Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque: A stunning mosque with intricate tilework and colorful architecture. Open from 8 am to 12 pm.
- Walk through the Vakil Bazaar: A historic marketplace filled with vendors selling spices, carpets, and souvenirs.
Afternoon
- Lunch at Sharze Restaurant: Try traditional Iranian cuisine like kebabs and stews in a cozy atmosphere.
- Visit the Eram Garden: A beautiful botanical garden with a variety of plants and flowers. Open from 8 am to 5 pm.
Evening
- Stay at Hotel Shiraz: A comfortable hotel with friendly staff and a great location.
- Dinner at Haft Khan Restaurant: Enjoy local specialties like fesenjan (chicken in pomegranate sauce) and baghali polo (herbed rice).
Things to Know
- Dress modestly when visiting mosques and gardens.
- Bargain when shopping at the bazaar.
Transportation
- Take a taxi or bus from the airport to your hotel.
- Use local transportation like buses or taxis to get around the city.
Tips
- Learn some basic Persian phrases like “salam” (hello) and “tashakor” (thank you).
- Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
Day 2: Ancient Persepolis
Morning
- Visit Persepolis: The ancient capital of the Achaemenid Empire, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Open from 8 am to 5 pm.
- Take a guided tour: Learn about the history and significance of the site.
Afternoon
- Lunch at a local restaurant near Persepolis: Try traditional Iranian food like kebabs and rice.
- Explore the surrounding area: Visit the nearby Naqsh-e Rustam, a historic necropolis.
Evening
- Return to Shiraz and stay at Hotel Shiraz.
- Dinner at Shandiz Restaurant: Enjoy local cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Things to Know
- Persepolis is about an hour’s drive from Shiraz.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the ancient site.
Day 3: Literature and Culture
Morning
- Visit the Hafez Tomb: A beautiful mausoleum dedicated to the famous Persian poet. Open from 8 am to 12 pm.
- Walk through the nearby Musalla Gardens: A peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Afternoon
- Lunch at a traditional tea house: Try local snacks and drinks like chai and shirini.
- Visit the Shiraz Literary Museum: Learn about the city’s rich literary history.
Evening
- Stay at Hotel Shiraz.
- Dinner at Khatun Restaurant: Enjoy traditional Iranian cuisine in an elegant atmosphere.
Things to Know
- The Hafez Tomb is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
- Be respectful of the tomb and its surroundings.
Day 4: Nature and Wine
Morning
- Visit the Margoon Waterfall: A stunning natural wonder about an hour’s drive from Shiraz. Open from 8 am to 5 pm.
- Take a hike in the surrounding mountains: Enjoy breathtaking views of the waterfall and surrounding landscape.
Afternoon
- Lunch at a local restaurant near the waterfall: Try traditional Iranian food like kebabs and rice.
- Visit the Rika Wine Factory: Learn about Iran’s wine production and sample some local varieties.
Evening
- Return to Shiraz and stay at Hotel Shiraz.
- Dinner at Shazdeh Restaurant: Enjoy local cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Things to Know
- The Margoon Waterfall is a popular spot for picnics and hiking.
- Wine production is a relatively new industry in Iran, but it’s growing rapidly.
Day 5: Last Day in Shiraz
Morning
- Visit the Afif-Abad Garden: A beautiful historic garden with stunning architecture. Open from 8 am to 12 pm.
- Shop for souvenirs at the Vakil Bazaar: Find unique gifts and mementos.
Afternoon
- Lunch at a local restaurant in the bazaar: Try traditional Iranian food like falafel and shawarma.
- Visit the Shah Cheragh Mausoleum: A beautiful shrine dedicated to two brothers who were martyred during the persecution of Shia Muslims.
Evening
- Stay at Hotel Shiraz.
- Farewell dinner at Haft Khan Restaurant: Enjoy local specialties one last time.
Things to Know
- The Afif-Abad Garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
- Be respectful of the shrine and its surroundings.
I hope you enjoy your trip to Shiraz, Iran!