Iran is a country of ancient history, rich culture, diverse traditions and hospitable people. Plan well and follow local rules to make the most out of your trip. Here are 7 top tips for visiting Iran. Our Iran travel guide for 2025 offers practical Iran travel advice and insights on how to prepare for an Iran trip.
1. The Best Time to Visit Iran
The first on our list of 7 top tips for visiting Iran is knowing the best time to start your Persian adventure. Here is the best time to visit Iran, along with other activities you can do in other seasons:
Spring and Fall: Ideal Seasons
The most appropriate time to visit Iran will be based on the parts you intend to visit and the kind of experiences that you want to enjoy. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are usually the best seasons since the weather is not too hot or too cold (the temperature varies between 15 °C and 25°C in most regions).
Spring is a time of blossoms, particularly in the northern Caspian region, and the springtime coincides with Nowruz, Persian New Year (about March 21), a festive event with cultural events. The fall is an ideal time to visit desert cities such as Yazd and Kerman since the heat goes away (20°C-30°C) and touring around is pleasant.
Summer: Northern Regions
Central and southern Iran will be scorching (June to August) and temperatures may go over 40 °C in desert areas, but it is fine in the cooler, green areas of the north, such as Gilan or Mazandaran. Planning a trip? Don’t forget to check the Iran visa application process.
Winter: Mountains and Islands
Winter (December to February) is chilly in mountainous regions such as Tehran or Tabriz (0°C-10°C), but perfect in case you want to ski in the Alborz Mountains or visit the warmer Persian Gulf islands, such as Kish. Prepare a schedule according to your time and balance the weather and the cultural events.
also read this: Shahrestan Bridge; the Oldest Bridge in Isfahan
2. What to Wear in Iran: Dress Code for Men & Women
The dress code in Iran is Islamic and the locals and tourists are required to comply with it. Women are required to wear a headscarf on their hair, but can cover it loosely in fashion-forward cities like Tehran.
They are required to wear loose long tops, covering the hips and full-length pants or skirts that cover the ankle. In traditional cities like Yazd or Qom, more conservative clothes with darker colors should be considered.
Men should wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts, while casual clothes like jeans and collared shirts and t-shirts are acceptable in urban areas. In rural or religious settings, formal clothes like button-up shirts are recommended.
Both men and women should avoid skimpy or tight clothes and bring light, breathable cotton for comfort during warm weather.
also read this: iran desert tours
3. Money in Iran: Exchange, Credit Cards & Iranian Debit Card
Visa / Mastercard and other international credit and debit cards are not accepted in Iran due to sanctions, so bring cash in USD or Euros to exchange. The exchange offices located in cities or airports have better rates compared to unofficial sellers.
The currency of Iran is the Iranian rial (IRR); the locals, however, prefer referring to it as toman, 1 toman = 10 rials (e.g., 100,000 rials = 10,000 tomans). Make sure to clarify whether one is priced in rials or tomans.
You may easily get an Iranian tourist debit card, e.g., Mahan Card or GP Card, that you can receive at a travel agency or at a bank. These cards may be loaded with exchanged money and used to make a purchase of goods at an ATM, in shops, as well as restaurants.
Always carry cash with you when heading to small towns and exchange only the amount you require, so that you are not carrying huge amounts of money with you.
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4. Getting Connected: SIM Cards, VPNs and Apps
Iran travel advice emphasizes the importance of internet access and preparing for international roaming. To stay connected, it is recommended to buy local SIM cards from providers like Irancell or Hamrah-e-Aval. Remember that passport registration is required.
To navigate the city, download Snapp, Iran’s alternative to Uber, and use Balad or Neshan for city navigation. A VPN is essential for accessing blocked websites, like Facebook and X, as they can be difficult to access in Iran.
Check the functionality of your VPN and be prepared for slow internet connections during peak times. These are some of the most important tips for visiting Iran that are crucial for seamless communication during your visit.
also read this: Tehran travel guide
5. Transportation in Iran: From Buses to Domestic Flights
Navigating Iran’s transportation network is a key part of how to prepare for an Iran trip. The system is all-inclusive and cost-effective. Air-conditioned and reclining seat buses (VIP buses) are widely used to travel between cities, and cost 5- 15 USD, such as Tehran to Isfahan (6- 7 hours).
You can book tickets online through websites such as Irun2Iran or at bus terminals. Tehran and Mashhad have metro systems that are efficient within the cities and the single rides cost approximately 10,000 rials (USD 0.25), as per the Iran travel guide for 2025.
There are lots of taxis and shared cabs, like Snapp, which has an online booking service. Major cities (e.g., Tehran to Shiraz, 30-60 USD) are reachable by domestic flights, operated by such airlines as IranAir or Mahan Air.
6. Local Culture & Behavior: What to Expect
Understanding local culture is a cornerstone of tips for visiting Iran. Hospitality is legendary in Iran and locals can easily invite visitors to tea or meals. Pleasantly receive such offers, but remember that “taarof” is a system of making offers due to courtesy, which can be rejected after several declines.
Smile and shake hands (with the same gender only), and to express polite respect, apply simple Farsi words such as salaam (hello) or mamnoon (thank you), as per the Iran travel guide for 2025. Do not openly display affection, since this is discouraged. Please obtain permission before taking photographs, particularly of women or places of worship.
Take off your shoes before entering homes or mosques, and wear conservatively at religious places. Watch out for body language-it is impolite to point your feet at someone. Iran travel advice encourages embracing the warmth of locals while respecting their customs.
7. What Not to Do in Iran: Rules, Restrictions & Respect
Respecting Iran’s cultural and legal norms is essential for how to prepare for an Iran trip. Alcohol is strongly banned, and it may bring harsh punishment in case of possession. Men and women should relate in a formal manner in public; there should be no physical contact, such as hugging, in the streets.
When religious holidays such as Muharram take place, wear more modestly and do not make a loud ruckus in the street. Avoid snapping pictures of government or military installations since this may result in detention.
Never talk about politics and some sensitive issues, such as government policies or international relations. Avoid protests or demonstrations that are unpredictable. These tips for visiting Iran ensure a safe and respectful journey for you.
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FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Iran?
Yes, a majority of nationalities need a visa. Apply at an Iranian embassy or use a travel agency, like Irun2Iran, for a smoother experience. Visa policies vary, so check requirements in advance, based on Iran travel advice.
Is it safe to travel to Iran as a solo traveler or as a woman?
Yes, Iran is mostly safe (both for traveling alone and female travelers) and one should be vigilant in places where people congregate. Wear clothes that are not revealing, do not go to remote places at night and take travel advisories.
Can I use my credit or debit card in Iran?
No, there is no international credit/debit card acceptance due to international sanctions. One of the most important tips for visiting Iran is to bring USD or Euros to change and put into consideration an Iranian tourist debit card.
Is the internet accessible in Iran?
Yes, and most of the sites are blocked. Purchase a local SIM card (e.g., Irancell) and use a VPN to access restricted platforms.
What kind of clothes should I pack for Iran?
Women are expected to put on headscarves and long shirts and pants; men are expected to wear t-shirts or sleeved shirts and pants. Wear loose, breathable and conservative clothes, particularly in rural areas.
Can tourists buy alcohol in Iran?
No, alcohol is not legal in Iran. The tourists should avoid them, since having or using them may lead to serious legal actions, which is an essential piece of information when visiting Iran.
What’s the best way to get around in Iran?
Take VIP buses or domestic flights, cities: metro or Snapp taxi. Book via apps like Irun2Iran or AliBaba for convenience, per Iran travel advice.
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