This biblical tour of Iran will deepen your understanding and appreciation of the Middle East’s intertwined histories of religion and culture. Embark on a fascinating journey through Iran to pay homage to biblical figures and marvel at the intricate architecture of ancient cathedrals. Discover the vibrant culture of Persia and its influences on the region’s religions and together with expert guides, listen to the stories and legends surrounding them.

Day 1: Tabriz

Tabriz was an important center of Christianity in the region during the early medieval period and was home to several prominent churches. The Armenian community has had a strong presence in Tabriz for centuries, and they have played a significant role in shaping the city’s Christian history.

We will pay a visit to Saint Mary (Maryam-Nana) Church, which was built in the 7th century and has been a center for Armenian religious ceremonies for centuries. Then we will visit Saint Sarkis Church, built in the 19th century and dedicated to Saint Sarkis who was martyred for his faith. Then we will drive to Maku to stay overnight.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Hotel: Gostaresh, Tabriz

Day 2: Maku, Jolfa, Tabriz

There are several historic Armenian churches in the area. The Armenian Monastic Ensembles of Iran recognized by UNESCO dates back to the 7th century is an example of the outstanding universal value of the Armenian architectural and decorative traditions. We will visit Saint Thaddeus Monastery, also known as the Qara Kelisa (Black Church), one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world. Then drive to the Saint Stepanos Monastery and Chapel of Chupan. Finally, we will drive to Tabriz.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner Hotel: Tourist Inn, Maku

Day 3: Tabriz, Tehran

Continue visiting Tabriz by the Blue Mosque or Kabud mosque, famous for its stunning blue tiles and intricate calligraphy, the UNESCO-recognized Tabriz Bazaar and finally, in El-Goli Park we will take a stroll. Then we will head for Tehran and visit Soltaniyeh on the route.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Hotel: Pahlavan Razzaz, Tehran

Day 4: Tehran

The Armenian community has been present in Tehran for centuries and has contributed greatly to the country’s culture and heritage. Today in Tehran we will visit the Armenian Orthodox Saint Sarkis Cathedral and Saint Mary Church. Then we will visit the Armenian Doulab cemetery and meet with people at the Armenian club.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Hotel: Pahlavan Razzaz, Tehran

Day 5: Tehran, Hamadan

Today Tehran city tour includes visiting the Archeological (national) Museum. Thanks to the immense volume, diversity and quality of its monuments, this museum ranks as one of the few most significant museums in the world. Visit the UNESCO-recognized Golestan Palace, a masterpiece of the Qajar era that is a successful combination of Persian crafts and architecture with Western influences. The most characteristic features and ornaments date from the 19th century. After that explore Tehran Grand Bazaar before heading to Hamadan.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner Hotel: Katibeh, Hamadan

Day 6: Hamadan

Hamedan has been inhabited for thousands of years and has played an important role in many different periods of Iranian history. Hamedan is associated with the story of Esther from the Old Testament who saved the Jewish people from being exterminated, the holiday of Purim celebrates this event. According to the Judeo-Persian tradition, it is believed that the tomb of Esther and her cousin Mordechai is located in Hamedan.

Additionally, Hamedan is home to several other important historical and cultural landmarks, such as the Tomb of Avicenna, a renowned Iranian philosopher and physician, and the Ganjnameh inscription, which is a set of ancient inscriptions carved into the rocks near the city.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner Hotel: Katibeh, Hamadan

Day 7: Tuyserkan, Khorramabad

We will hit the road to Khorramabad, and en route, we will visit the Tomb of Prophet Habakkuk in Tuyserkan. Prophet Habakkuk is a figure from the Hebrew Bible, one of the twelve minor prophets in the Old Testament. The burial place of Prophet Habakkuk is well worth a visit for those interested in biblical history and tradition. We will visit Falak ol-Aflak Citadel as soon as arriving in Khorramabad.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner Hotel: Saliz, Khorramabad

Day 8: An excursion to Susa

Drive for about 2:30 hours to visit the Tomb of the biblical prophet Daniel, who lived during the Babylonian exile in the 6th century BC. If time allows and upon your request, you can visit the ancient ruins of Susa including the Apadana Palace, the Susa Castle, Choqa Zanbil and the Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System. We will return back to Khorramabad to stay overnight.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner Hotel: Saliz, Khorramabad

Day 9: Drive to Isfahan

Drive for about 5 hours to Isfahan and visit the breathtaking landscapes of Zagros Mountains. Observing people is an amazing part of Iran and the Zayandeh Rood is one of these places in Isfahan. The historical bridges are charming in the evening where lots of young couples walk and chat and families stroll. (Suffering from long-time drought, Zayandeh Rood may have no water at the time of your visit.)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner Hotel: Sonati, Isfahan

Day 10: Isfahan

Isfahan has churches primarily because of its historical connection to the Armenian community in Iran. The Armenian community has lived in Iran for centuries, and many Armenians settled in Isfahan during the Safavid era in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Today we will explore the Jolfa neighbourhood of Isfahan, which was historically home to a large population of Armenian Christians and know more about the migration of Armenians to this city. We will visit the stunning frescoes and intricate carvings of Vank Cathedral and the historic Bethlehem Church. Then we will explore Isfahan Jame Mosque and the Music Museum to listen to Persian music.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner Hotel: Sonati, Isfahan

Day 11: Isfahan, Kashan

Isfahan entitled “Half the World” is the legendary city of traditional Islamic archeology and turquoise domes. Today’s sightseeing includes the UNESCO-recognized Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the second huge square in the world after Beijing’s Tiananmen Square. Sheikh Lotfollah and Jameh Abbasi Mosques are brilliant masterpieces of Islamic-Persian architecture. Aliqapu, Chehel Sutoon and Hasht Behesht Palaces and finally Isfahan bazaar to purchase traditional arts & crafts. Then we will head to Kashan to stay overnight.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner Hotel: Negin, Kashan

Day 12: Kashan, Tehran

Kashan which runs along the edge of the central deserts of Iran makes a contrast between the extent of the deserts and the greenery of an oasis. Archeological discoveries in the Sialk Hills (7000 years) that lie 4 km west of Kashan reveal that this region was one of the primary centers of civilization in the pre-historic ages. Highlights of today are Tabatabaee or Boroujerdi historical houses, Sultan Mir Ahmad Hammam, Fin Garden, and Agha Bozorg Mosque.

Last but not least, we will drive to IKA airport to take the departure flight back home. En route visit Qom the major center of Shiite Islam that is home to the sacred pilgrimage sights. Enjoy Sowhan, the special sweet from Qom.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Hotel: IBIS, IKA Airport