Iran Travel Guide: Money, Accommodation, Transport & Sightseeing

Currency & Payments

Iran has a unique monetary system that may surprise travelers:

  • Official currency: Rial (IRR), though prices are often quoted in tomans (1 toman = 10 rials)
  • Best exchange rates: At Tehran International Airport (money exchange on departure level)
  • Sample rates (Spring 2023): 1 USD ≈ 500,000 IRR, 1 EUR ≈ 550,000 IRR, 1 GBP ≈ 650,000 IRR
  • Pro tip: When you hear “100”, it might mean 100,000 tomans = 1,000,000 rials
Iranian landmarks
Naqsh-e Rostam – example of Iran’s cultural heritage

Accommodation in Iran

Recommended lodging options in major cities (2023 prices):

  • Tehran: Hostel Mosshad – double room from 700,000 IRR (~$15), basic standard
  • Kashan: Ehsan Historic Guesthouse – heritage house room from 1,500,000 IRR (~$30) with breakfast
  • Isfahan: Abir Kamir Hostel – double room from 1,000,000 IRR (~$20), helpful English-speaking staff
  • Shiraz: Hotel Anvari – double room from 2,000,000 IRR (~$40), good standard

Tip: Paying in rials often works out cheaper than USD/EUR. Always negotiate prices!

Tehran skyline
Milad Tower – Tehran’s iconic landmark

Food & Drinks

Iranian cuisine may challenge European palates:

  • Main dishes: Kebabs (180,000-250,000 IRR), dizi (traditional claypot stew), fesenjan (pomegranate-walnut dish)
  • Beverages: Doogh (yogurt drink), fresh juices (50,000-80,000 IRR), tea (10,000-20,000 IRR)
  • Breakfast: Often included with accommodation, otherwise hard to find breakfast-serving establishments
Isfahan teahouse
Traditional Iranian teahouse in Isfahan

Transportation

Getting around Iran is affordable and relatively convenient:

  • Buses: VIP buses best for long distances (e.g. Shiraz-Tehran for 350,000 IRR)
  • Taxis: Use Snapp (Iranian Uber) or regular taxis – always negotiate fare before riding
  • Flights: Surprisingly cheap domestic flights (e.g. Shiraz-Tehran from 2,000,000 IRR)
Tehran street art
Tehran murals – example of Iranian street art

Sightseeing & Entrance Fees

Iran offers countless attractions, but sightseeing can add up:

  • Ticket prices: 200,000-500,000 IRR for major sites (e.g. Persepolis, Pink Mosque)
  • Mosques: Most can be visited free outside prayer times
  • Savings tip: Always pay in rials rather than foreign currency
Qom shrine
Shrine in Qom – example of Iranian sacred architecture

Essential Travel Tips

  • Language: Learn basic Farsi – numbers and greetings go a long way
  • Navigation: OsmAnd app (works offline) is must-have for Iran travel
  • Culture: Respect local customs – cover shoulders/legs, avoid PDA
Ali Sadr Cave
Ali Sadr Cave – Iran’s natural wonder

Traveling through Iran offers unforgettable experiences but requires proper preparation. We hope this guide helps you avoid common pitfalls and fully enjoy this fascinating country.