Road Trips in Iran

Many travellers who choose Iran as their holiday destination start with Tehran, the country’s capital. The city is a perfect showcase of Iran’s culture and history with traditional low-rise housing, top-notch restaurants, and interesting landmarks dotting the landscape.

If you are into cities with unique atmosphere, you should definitely travel to Esfahan, where you’ll be welcomed with brilliant Muslim architecture located around the most popular and imposing Naqsh-e Jahan Square, which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For even more beautiful and colourful edifices, you can also head for Shiraz, where you’ll learn more on the country’s cultural background.

Those who are into a more laid-back atmosphere should definitely try visiting Dizin located at the backdrop of the Alborz Mountains. It will be a perfect starting point for many outdoor activities, including trekking and hiking. However, the lovers of ancient sites and archaeological finds should consider at least a short trip to Persepolis with its sun-scorched, yet perfectly preserved, streets.

Other notable places with plenty of dining options based on local ingredients and unique landmarks include Tabriz, Mashhad, Rasht, and Kerman. There’s something for every traveller in Iran.

Suggested Road Trips in Iran

• The Caspian Sea Coast Road: This road trip takes you along the Caspian Sea coast, starting from the city of Tehran and passing through the lush green forests and rolling hills of the northern provinces of Mazandaran and Gilan. Along the way, you can visit historic sites like the 17th century Chehel Sotoun Palace and the ancient city of Rasht, as well as the beautiful port city of Anzali and the hot springs of Sari.

• The Desert Road: This road trip takes you through Iran's central desert region, starting from the city of Isfahan and passing through the Dasht-e Kavir Desert. Along the way, you can visit historic sites like the ancient city of Na'in, the stunning mosque of Mesr, and the natural hot springs of Varzaneh.

• The Alborz Mountain Range: This road trip takes you through the stunning Alborz Mountain Range, starting from the city of Tehran and passing through the picturesque towns and villages of the northern provinces of Alborz and Mazandaran. Along the way, you can visit historic sites like the 17th century Abbasabad Palace and the city of Chalous, as well as the beautiful forests and lakes of the region.

Iran follows right-hand traffic, yet it’s little consolation when you realise that native motorists are characterised by chaotic behaviour and lack of respect for traffic rules. Fortunately, Iran follows many standard European traffic regulations and there are plenty of good-quality roads.

The country has strict regulations concerning seatbelts so be sure to always have them fastened. Other restrictions concern drinking and driving. Due to the fact that Iran is an Islamic country, there is zero tolerance when it comes to blood alcohol level. The penalties include severe on-the-spot fines, jail, and even deportation.

What’s more, avoid driving and talking on your mobile phone. Instead, invest in a hands-free set or make sure that the car rental company provides you with one.

The documents that you should carry while travelling around Iran are: driver’s licence, certificate of insurance, passport, vehicle registration document, and vehicle technical inspection certificate. It is possible to rent a car for all motorists who are older than 18.

The speed limits in Iran are as follows: 50-80 km/h in built-up areas and 120 km on highways. Iran is rife with speed cameras so many travellers try to stick to the speed limits, at least in major cities. 

When taking a road trip in Iran, it's important to be aware of the following:

• Road conditions: Some of the roads in Iran can be in poor condition, especially in rural areas, so it's important to be aware of the road conditions before embarking on your trip. Additionally, it's always a good idea to check local weather conditions, as heavy rain can cause road closures and other issues.

• Driving habits: Iranian drivers can be aggressive and take risks on the road, so it's important to be aware of the local driving habits and to be prepared to drive defensively. It's also important to note that some of the roads in Iran are narrow and winding, so it's important to drive slowly and carefully.

• Fuel availability: Fuel is widely available in Iran, but it's still a good idea to keep an eye on the fuel gauge and to plan your trips accordingly.

• Political and security situation: The political and security situation in Iran can be volatile, so it's important to stay informed about the latest developments and to follow any travel advice from the relevant authorities.

• Local customs and laws: It's important to be aware of the local customs and laws in Iran, as they can vary greatly from region to region. For example, women are expected to dress modestly and to wear a headscarf in public. It's also important to be aware of the local laws regarding photography, as there are restrictions in place in some areas.

The best time for taking a road trip in Iran is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, temperatures are mild and comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor activities and road trips. Additionally, during these seasons, the landscapes are lush and green, offering breathtaking views.

In the summer months (June to August), temperatures can get very hot in many parts of Iran, making outdoor activities and road trips more challenging. In the winter months (December to February), temperatures can be cold and snowy in many parts of the country, making some roads impassable.

It's important to keep in mind that temperatures and weather conditions can vary greatly across different regions of Iran, so it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast and to be prepared for different conditions.

The cost of a road trip in Iran can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the length of the trip, mode of transportation, accommodation choices, and activities planned. Here's a breakdown of some typical costs:

• Transportation: If you plan to rent a car, the cost can range from around $30-$70 per day for a basic car, depending on the rental agency and time of year. However, it's worth noting that driving in Iran can be challenging due to traffic, road conditions, and unfamiliar driving customs. Alternatively, hiring a driver or joining a guided tour may be a more convenient and safe option.

• Accommodation: There are many options for accommodation in Iran, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels and resorts. On average, expect to pay around $20-$40 per night for a mid-range guesthouse or hostel, and around $80-$150 per night for a higher-end hotel or resort.

• Food and drinks: Iran is known for its delicious and affordable cuisine, with plenty of options for street food, traditional restaurants, and cafes. A typical meal at a casual restaurant will cost around $5-$10 per person, while a fancier restaurant will cost around $20-$30 per person. Non-alcoholic beverages are widely available and generally inexpensive.

• Activities and attractions: There are many cultural and historical sites to explore in Iran, including ancient ruins, museums, and religious sites. Admission fees can range from $1-$10 per person, depending on the attraction.

Overall, budgeting around $50-$70 per day per person is a reasonable estimate for a road trip in Iran, assuming a mid-range accommodation, basic car rental or guided tour, and dining at budget-friendly restaurants. However, costs can vary widely depending on individual preferences and choices. It's important to plan and research ahead of time to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip in Iran.

Here are some popular guidebooks and road maps for a road trip in Iran:

• Lonely Planet Iran: This comprehensive guidebook covers all aspects of travel in Iran, including historical and cultural sites, outdoor activities, and practical travel information.

• Bradt Travel Guide Iran: This guidebook provides in-depth information on Iran's history, culture, and geography, as well as tips for planning a road trip and navigating the country's roadways.

• Michelin Iran Road Map: This detailed road map includes information on highways, secondary roads, and scenic routes, as well as important landmarks and points of interest.

• ITMB Iran Travel Reference Map: This foldable map provides an overview of Iran's geography and includes detailed information on major cities and attractions.

• Reise Know-How Iran Road Map: This highly detailed road map includes information on road conditions, distances, and travel times, as well as important landmarks and points of interest.

• Iran Travel Map by Periplus: This foldable map includes information on Iran's major highways and roads, as well as a city map of Tehran and other important cities.

No matter which guidebook or map you choose, be sure to research and plan ahead for your road trip in Iran to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. It's also important to stay aware of current travel advisories and regulations, as these can change frequently.

If you're planning a road trip in Iran, here are some recommended books to read beforehand to learn more about the country's history, culture, and society:

• "Persepolis" by Marjane Satrapi: This graphic novel memoir follows the author's childhood in Iran during and after the Islamic Revolution. It provides a unique perspective on the country's recent history and politics.

• "Reading Lolita in Tehran" by Azar Nafisi: This memoir tells the story of a group of women who meet in secret to discuss banned Western literature during the early years of the Islamic Republic.

• "All Shah's Men" by Stephen Kinzer: This nonfiction book tells the story of the 1953 coup that overthrew Iran's democratically elected prime minister and restored the power of the Shah.

• "The Blood of Flowers" by Anita Amirrezvani: This historical fiction novel takes place in 17th-century Iran and follows a young woman's journey to becoming a master rug maker. It provides insight into Iran's rich artistic traditions.

• "A History of Iran" by Michael Axworthy: This comprehensive history of Iran provides a broad overview of the country's political, social, and cultural development, from ancient times to the present day.

Reading these books can help deepen your understanding of Iran's complex history and culture, which can enhance your experience on your road trip.