3-Day Tehran, Iran Travel Itinerary

Introduction:

Tehran is the capital of Iran and is located in the north-central part of the country at the foot of the Alborz Mountains. It is the largest city in Iran and serves as the country’s political, economic, cultural, and transportation hub. Tehran is known for its historic palaces, grand museums, bustling bazaars, and scenic parks. As a city with over eight million residents, Tehran offers travelers a dynamic blend of Persian heritage, Islamic architecture, modern art, and mountainous landscapes. This 3-day itinerary helps visitors discover Tehran’s rich culture, explore iconic landmarks, and enjoy local cuisine with clarity and purpose.

Places to Visit:

1. Golestan Palace: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a 19th-century Qajar-era palace complex known for its mirror halls, mosaics, and Persian gardens.
2. National Museum of Iran: This museum is the oldest archaeological museum in Iran and holds artifacts from the Paleolithic to Islamic periods.
3. Azadi Tower: This iconic 45-meter-tall monument was built in 1971 and symbolizes Tehran’s modern identity, featuring an underground museum.
4. Milad Tower: This 435-meter-high telecommunications tower is the tallest in Iran and offers observation decks, restaurants, and a panoramic city view.
5. Treasury of National Jewels: This museum displays one of the most valuable collections of royal jewels in the world, including the famous Peacock Throne.
6. Sa’dabad Complex: This former royal residence includes several palaces and museums surrounded by forested gardens and scenic trails.
7. Darband: This is a mountain village at Tehran’s northern edge, famous for its hiking trails, riverside cafes, and kebab restaurants.
8. Grand Bazaar: This massive traditional market covers 10 kilometers of alleys, offering textiles, spices, handicrafts, and Persian carpets.
9. Imamzadeh Saleh Shrine: This is a beautifully tiled religious site in the Tajrish area, popular for its Islamic architecture and spiritual atmosphere.
10. Tabiat Bridge: This award-winning pedestrian bridge connects two parks and offers a modern design with cafes and great sunset views.

Sample Itinerary:

Day 1: Heritage and City Icons

• 9:00 AM – Start at Golestan Palace: This site is located in central Tehran and can be explored in 2 hours for its lavish architecture and royal history.
• 11:30 AM – Walk to National Museum of Iran (10-minute walk): This museum displays ancient Persian relics and archaeological treasures (1.5 hours).
• 1:00 PM – Lunch at Moslem Restaurant in the Grand Bazaar: This famous local restaurant offers massive portions of tahchin and kebabs (1 hour).
• 2:30 PM – Explore the Grand Bazaar (walking distance): Shop for handicrafts, tea sets, and textiles in historic corridors (1.5 hours).
• 4:30 PM – Visit Azadi Tower (20-minute taxi ride): Walk around the iconic structure and view the underground museum (1 hour).
• 6:00 PM – Dinner at Nayeb Restaurant in Vanak Square: This restaurant is a top-rated spot for traditional Persian cuisine.

Day 2: Culture, Nature, and Scenic Views

• 9:00 AM – Begin at Sa’dabad Complex (30-minute drive north): Visit the White Palace and Green Palace within the wooded estate (2 hours).
• 11:30 AM – Visit the Imamzadeh Saleh Shrine in Tajrish (10-minute drive): Admire Islamic architecture and take photos of colorful tilework (45 minutes).
• 12:30 PM – Lunch at Gilaneh Restaurant (10 minutes away): Enjoy traditional Northern Iranian dishes with a mountain view (1 hour).
• 2:00 PM – Hike or take a cable car ride in Darband: Stroll along the trail with tea houses, vendors, and scenic mountain views (2.5 hours).
• 5:00 PM – Sunset at Tabiat Bridge (25-minute drive): Walk across this futuristic bridge and enjoy views of the Alborz mountains (1 hour).
• 6:30 PM – Dinner at Divan Persian Cuisine: This upscale rooftop restaurant offers modern Persian dishes and city skyline views.

Day 3: Art, Jewels, and Modern Tehran

• 9:30 AM – Breakfast at your hotel or Sam Café in Fereshteh Street.
• 10:30 AM – Visit Treasury of National Jewels (10-minute drive): View dazzling exhibits like the Darya-i-Noor diamond and royal regalia (1 hour).
• 11:45 AM – Walk to nearby Valiasr Street: This is the longest street in Tehran, lined with trees, shops, and cafes (45 minutes).
• 1:00 PM – Lunch at Koohpaye Restaurant: Located near the base of the mountains, it serves fresh grilled meats and Persian stews (1 hour).
• 2:30 PM – Visit Milad Tower (30-minute drive): Go to the observation deck, sky dome, and rotating restaurant for a full view of the city (2 hours).
• 5:00 PM – Final walk in Laleh Park or visit Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art (optional).
• 6:30 PM – Return to hotel or proceed to Imam Khomeini Airport if departing.

See Itinerary Map (Includes Places to Visit and Accommodations)

Best Time To Go:

The best time to visit Tehran is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, ranging from 15°C to 25°C, which is ideal for walking tours and hiking in the mountains. Summer (June to August) in Tehran is hot and dry, with temperatures reaching 38°C. Winter (December to February) can be cold, with occasional snowfall and temperatures dropping below 0°C. Spring also features Nowruz (Persian New Year) celebrations, while autumn provides clear skies and fewer tourists.

Activities To Do:

• Ride the Tochal Cable Car: This activity takes you high up Mount Tochal for skiing in winter or cool mountain air and panoramic views in summer.
• Visit a Persian Carpet Workshop: Learn about Iran’s famous carpet-weaving tradition and see artisans at work in workshops near the Grand Bazaar.
• Enjoy Iranian Tea Culture in Traditional Teahouses: Places like Azari Traditional Teahouse offer samovars, Persian music, and local pastries.
• Watch a Play or Concert at Vahdat Hall: Tehran’s national opera and theater venue hosts classical Persian and modern performances.
• Explore Iranian Modern Art: Visit the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art to see works by Warhol, Picasso, and Iranian modern artists.

Accommodations:

• Espinas Palace Hotel: This luxury 5-star hotel is located in the north with mountain views, multiple restaurants, and a wellness center.
• Parsian Azadi Hotel: A premier hotel offering spacious rooms, top-notch amenities, and proximity to nature and northern Tehran.
• Howeyzeh Hotel: A well-located 4-star hotel in central Tehran offering modern comforts and easy access to major attractions.
• Ferdowsi Grand Hotel: A reputable hotel near the Grand Bazaar with traditional decor and multiple dining options.
• Karoon Hotel: A comfortable hotel with clean rooms, friendly service, and great access to metro stations and museums.
• See You in Iran Hostel: A popular spot for backpackers offering shared dorms, social spaces, and cultural events.
• Hanna Boutique Hotel: An artistic guesthouse with Persian-modern design and a cozy courtyard, ideal for travelers on a moderate budget.

Transportation Options:

• Metro: Tehran’s metro system is modern, affordable, and efficient, with lines connecting major areas. Trains operate from 5:30 AM to 10:30 PM.
• Taxis: Yellow taxis are everywhere and operate with fixed routes or private hire. Prices are affordable but bargaining may be needed.
• Snapp and Tap30 Apps: These are Iran’s versions of Uber and offer reliable ride-hailing services in Tehran.
• Buses (BRT): Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines run through major boulevards and are a fast way to move around during rush hours.
• Car Rental: International visitors can rent cars with drivers, as self-driving may be difficult due to traffic and local rules.
• Walking: Many attractions in central Tehran are within walking distance, especially around Valiasr and Enghelab streets.

Tips:

• Dress modestly: Women must wear headscarves and loose-fitting clothing; men should avoid shorts.
• Carry cash: Iran’s banking system is disconnected from international credit cards, so bring enough Iranian rial or use local debit cards.
• Avoid political discussions: Travelers should stay away from sensitive topics in public conversations.
• Drink bottled water: Though water is treated, bottled water is safer for tourists.
• Get a VPN before arrival: Many websites and apps are blocked in Iran, so install a VPN in advance if you need access.

Tehran is a vibrant capital where Persian history meets modern dynamism. From royal palaces like Golestan to architectural wonders like the Tabiat Bridge, every corner of Tehran tells a story of resilience, art, and tradition. This 3-day itinerary introduces travelers to the city’s culture, natural beauty, cuisine, and daily life in a detailed and structured way. Whether you’re shopping at the Grand Bazaar, dining on kebabs in Darband, or taking in the skyline from Milad Tower, Tehran promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Iran.