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Iran Road Trip

Tehran - Qazvin - Hamedan - Khorramabad - Shushtar - Bandar e Mashshahr - Shiraz - Abadeh - Yazd - Khur - Isfahan - Qom

Expect on your itinerary

Historical sites Historical sites
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Landscape Landscape
Security Security
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Iran Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages12 km3,186 h/stage3.4

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Iran Road Trip in Iran?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,520EUR drive & more 425EUR sleep & more 1,111EUR eat & more 672EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,208EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,728EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 7,560EUR drive & more 575EUR sleep & more 2,222EUR eat & more 1,008EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,805EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 11,365EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 10,584EUR drive & more 775EUR sleep & more 3,146EUR eat & more 1,344EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 5,265EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 15,849EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,150EUR drive & more 863EUR sleep & more 770EUR eat & more 672EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,305EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,455EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Iran Road Trip Itinerary

Experience the beauty of Iran on an incredible 14-day road trip from Tehran to Tehran! This amazing journey will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes and historical sites in the country. Along the way, you'll visit the cities of Qazvin, Khorramabad, Bandar e Mashshahr, Abadeh, Yazd, Isfahan, and Qom. This 3320km route provides an unparalleled experience, with excellent road conditions and plenty of attractions to discover. The best time to drive this route is from April to October, when the weather is warm and sunny. You'll have the chance to explore ancient monuments, wander through beautiful gardens, and experience the local culture. Take time to visit the many museums, mosques, and palaces that dot the landscape. Enjoy breathtaking views of mountains and deserts, and take in the stunning architecture of the cities. This road trip is suitable for all drivers, although it may be best enjoyed with a higher budget. The memories and experiences gained from this trip will last a lifetime, so don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore Iran!
number of days 14 number of days
route length 3,186 km route length
budget high budget
good for tourist good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level moderate accident level

START Tehran

Distance 3,186 km Driving time 40.9 h Pace: fast 955.7 kWh Airports IKA
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Tehran is the capital of Iran and the perfect starting point for "Iran Road Trip". The city offers a wealth of attractions and sites to explore that will make your journey even more enjoyable. It's a bustling metropolis with a population of over 12 million, and the city's sights and sounds will provide a great introduction to the country. Start your journey by exploring the grand bazaar, a huge complex of shops, restaurants and market stalls. Here you can find everything from traditional spices to handmade carpets, and it's a great place to pick up souvenirs. For stunning views of the city, take a trip up to the Milad Tower, the tallest tower in Iran. Alternatively, you can visit the National Museum of Iran to learn more about the country's history and culture. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA), located just outside Tehran. Here, you can find car rental services, making it easy to start your road trip. Whether you are looking for history and culture, stunning views, or shopping opportunities, Tehran is the perfect place to start your "Iran Road Trip".

1 Tehran - Qazvin

Distance 166 km Driving time 1.8 h Pace: fast 49.8 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road accommodation options interesting  historic site junction of road trips interesting cultural site UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Tehran to Qazvin? This 222 km journey will take you less than 3 hours and you will have the opportunity to explore some of the most interesting places in Iran. Start your journey in Tehran, the capital of Iran, and take some time to explore the city’s historical sites, such as Golestan Palace, the National Museum of Iran, and the Azadi Tower. After that, make sure to drive through the beautiful and scenic roads of the city, and take some pictures of the stunning views. Continue your journey and take a break in Karaj, a city known for its beautiful parks and gardens. Here, you can visit the famous Tochal ski resort, the Alborz Mountains, and the Tomb of Shahzadeh Abdollah. Finally, you will arrive in Qazvin, an ancient city with a rich history. Here, you can explore the beautiful architecture of the Qajar period, such as the Chehel Sotoun Palace and the historic bazaar. Remember to take your time and enjoy the journey. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!

2 Qazvin - Hamedan

Distance 237 km Driving time 3.3 h Pace: fast 71.1 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues junction of road trips interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip adventure? Start your journey in Qazvin, Iran, and end in Hamedan, 236km away, in fewer than 4 hours. On the way, you will pass through the beautiful city of Abyek and the majestic mountains of Alvand. In Qazvin, explore the historical monuments such as the Grand Bazaar, the Jameh Mosque and the Chehel Sotoun Palace. In Abyek, visit the ancient city walls, the castle and the Abyek Hot Springs. In Alvand, enjoy the stunning views of the mountain and the city below. Finally, in Hamedan, visit the Ganj Nameh Inscriptions, the Baba Taher Tomb and the Avicenna Mausoleum. This is just one of the stages of your amazing road trip adventure. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” section of this stage.

3 Hamedan - Khorramabad

Distance 236 km Driving time 3.3 h Pace: fast 70.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues junction of road trips interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Are you ready to embark on a road trip from Hamedan to Khorramabad? This 257 km journey takes less than 4 hours and is one of the most interesting stages of a larger tour. Your first stop should be the Ganjnameh carvings, two ancient inscriptions from the Achaemenid period, located near Hamedan. Then, you must visit the Alvand ski resort, where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Continue your journey to the city of Tuyserkan and visit the Tuyserkan Caves, a unique natural attraction. Your next stop should be the beautiful and historical city of Malayer, where you can explore the Malayer Grand Bazaar and the famous Malayer Jame Mosque. Your last stop before Khorramabad is the Falak-ol-Aflak Castle, one of the most famous historical sites in Iran. Finally, you will arrive in Khorramabad, a city with a rich history and many attractions, such as the Khorramabad Citadel, the Khorramabad Grand Bazaar, and the Darvazeh Ganj Ali, an ancient gate. To get the most out of this stage of your road trip, make sure to check out the "Itinerary" section for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Have a great trip!

4 Khorramabad - Shushtar

Distance 241 km Driving time 2.9 h Pace: fast 72.4 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues interesting  historic site junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Khorramabad to Shushtar! This 246km journey will take you no more than 3 hours, and along the way, you can discover some of the most fascinating historical sites in Iran. Start your journey in Khorramabad, a city known for its ancient castles, such as Falak-ol-Aflak Castle, and its lush nature, including the magnificent waterfall of Pigeon Valley. Make sure to visit the magnificent Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the famous Shushtar Waterfalls. As you leave Khorramabad, you will be mesmerised by the stunning landscape of the Zagros Mountains. Be sure to take a break at the majestic Bisheh Waterfall and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. Your journey will end in Shushtar, the city of ancient bridges. Here, you can explore the historic Shushtar Historical Complex, the ancient Shushtar Bridge, and the impressive Shushtar Aqueduct. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Get ready to explore the incredible beauty of Iran!

5 Shushtar - Bandar e Mashshahr

Distance 219 km Driving time 2.7 h Pace: fast 65.8 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Shushtar to Bandar-e Mashshahr! This 190 km journey will take you less than 3 hours and you will get to experience some of the most amazing roads in Iran. Start your journey in Shushtar and make sure to visit the ancient hydraulic system and the Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, make a stop at the Karun River and take in the beauty of its breathtaking views. As you drive through the scenic roads, you will reach Bandar-e Mashshahr, where you can visit the historical fort of the city and the nearby beach. Make sure to take a stroll at the waterfront and enjoy the views of the Persian Gulf. This is just one of the stages of an incredible road trip, and if you want to learn more about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, you can find them all in the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an amazing adventure!

6 Bandar e Mashshahr - Shiraz

Distance 468 km Driving time 6.8 h Pace: fast 140.3 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips interesting cultural site interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Bandar e Mashshahr to Shiraz! This 530 km drive will take you less than 7 hours and will be filled with breathtaking views and interesting stops. As you drive, keep an eye out for the scenic road that will take you through the stunning landscapes of Iran. Your first stop should be the ancient city of Kerman, which is known for its culture, arts, and handicrafts. You can also visit the Ganj Ali Khan Complex, which includes a bazaar, bathhouse, and square. Next, you can explore the ruins of Rayen Castle, which was once the capital of Kerman Province. As you continue your journey, you will arrive in Mahan, a city known for its gardens, mosques, and shrines. Here, you can visit the Shazdeh Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Mausoleum of Shah Nematollah Vali, a famous Sufi poet. Finally, you will reach the city of Shiraz, which is known for its gardens, monuments, and ancient ruins. Be sure to visit the Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque, the Vakil Mosque, and the Karim Khan Citadel. You can also explore the ruins of Persepolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

7 Shiraz - Abadeh

Distance 276 km Driving time 3.5 h Pace: fast 82.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues junction of road trips interesting cultural site interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Shiraz to Abadeh? This 277km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours, and you will be able to enjoy some of the most interesting places in these two cities. Your first stop should be the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque in Shiraz, a spectacular mosque with colorful glasses that create a wonderful rainbow effect when the sun shines through them. Then, you should visit the Vakil Bazaar, a traditional bazaar with a wide variety of spices and handicrafts. The second part of the road trip will take you to Abadeh, where you should visit the Jameh Mosque, an ancient mosque with a beautiful courtyard. You should also explore the Abadeh Historical Bath, a traditional bathhouse with a beautiful blue dome. This is one of the stages of a larger tour and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s hit the road and enjoy this amazing road trip!

8 Abadeh - Yazd

Distance 220 km Driving time 2.7 h Pace: fast 66.0 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Are you looking for a memorable road trip? Then look no further than the Abadeh to Yazd route! This 219 km journey, which takes less than 3 hours to drive, offers a unique blend of historical sites, scenic roads, and cultural experiences. Start your journey in Abadeh, with its bustling bazaar and the nearby Imamzadeh Seyyed Hassan, a beautiful shrine. Then, head out to the nearby city of Bavanat, where you can explore the ruins of the ancient city of Bishapur. After that, take a drive to the city of Ardakan to see the ruins of the old city of Hecatompylos. Continue your journey to the city of Taft, where you can visit the famous Taft Mosque and the nearby Jameh Mosque. Then, make your way to the city of Mehriz, where you can explore the ruins of the old city of Susa. Finally, make your way to Yazd, a city known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Along the way, make sure to take in the stunning views of the Zagros Mountains and enjoy the local cuisine. Don't forget to take some time to explore the many charming villages and small towns along the route. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Abadeh to Yazd road trip today!

9 Yazd - Khur

Distance 326 km Driving time 4.5 h Pace: fast 97.8 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Yazd to Khur? This 336 km journey will take you less than 4 hours, and you can enjoy the scenic road through the Iranian desert. You can start your trip in Yazd, a city known for its wind towers and historical mosques. Make sure to visit the Zoroastrian Towers of Silence, Dowlatabad Garden, and the Grand Mosque of Yazd. As you drive towards Khur, you will pass through the desert and you will be able to admire the stunning views of the mountains. Once you reach Khur, you can visit the ancient city of Jandagh, the Caravanserai of Aghazadeh, and the Caravanserai of Khur. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

10 Khur - Isfahan

Distance 390 km Driving time 5.0 h Pace: fast 116.9 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues junction of road trips interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Are you ready for a road trip adventure? Start your journey in Khur, Iran, located 401 km away from Isfahan. This journey will take you less than 5 hours to reach the end of the stage. The first stop of your adventure is the historical city of Khur, where you can explore the ruins of the ancient city, visit the traditional bazaar, and admire the beautiful architecture of the old city. Continue your journey to visit the stunning lake of Gavkhuni, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the area. The next stop is the city of Natanz, where you can visit the historical monuments, the old bazaar, and the beautiful gardens. Finally, you will reach your destination, the city of Isfahan. Here you can explore the city's historical sites, visit the famous Imam Square, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the city. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

11 Isfahan - Qom

Distance 296 km Driving time 3.2 h Pace: fast 88.7 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Isfahan to Qom! This 296km journey will take you less than 3 hours, as you drive through the picturesque Iranian landscape. As you make your way, you will be mesmerized by the lush green fields, the rolling hills, and the stunning mountain views. Along the way, you will pass through the historical cities of Kashan and Natanz, where you can explore the ancient sites and take in the unique architecture. You can also visit the Abyaneh village, a traditional mountain village with its unique red-colored houses, or the Fin Garden, a beautiful Persian garden from the Safavid era. In Qom, you can visit the Fatima Masumeh Shrine and the Jamkaran Mosque, two of the most important religious sites in the country. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.

12 Qom - Tehran

Distance 110 km Driving time 1.2 h Pace: fast 33.1 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road accommodation options junction of road trips interesting cultural site interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Start your road trip from the city of Qom, Iran and enjoy the 110km drive to Tehran. You will be mesmerized by the beautiful scenery along the way and the drive will take you less than 2 hours. Make sure to stop at Qom's Jamkaran Mosque, a holy site for Shia Muslims, and the Masoumeh Shrine, a pilgrimage destination. As you drive to Tehran, you will pass through the city of Saveh, home to the ancient Qaleh Dokhtar fortress. Once you reach Tehran, you can explore the capital city's many attractions, including the Grand Bazaar of Tehran, the Golestan Palace, the National Museum of Iran, and the Azadi Tower. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip and have a safe journey!

  Tehran

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The final destination of the thrilling "Iran Road Trip" is the vibrant city of Tehran. This bustling metropolis is the largest city in Iran and the political and cultural capital of the country. As you drive into the city, you will be impressed by its grandeur and modernity. The most popular attractions in Tehran include the Golestan Palace, the National Museum of Iran, and the Azadi Tower. The Golestan Palace is an extravagant palace complex that showcases the grandeur of the Persian monarchy. The National Museum of Iran is the home to an extensive collection of artifacts and artwork from ancient civilizations. The Azadi Tower is an iconic monument and symbol of Tehran. If you’re looking for a break from sightseeing, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in Tehran. The city is known for its lively nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. There are also plenty of parks, gardens and green spaces, where you can relax and take in the beauty of the city. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport to Tehran is the Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA). The airport is well connected to major cities in the region, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore Iran. So, if you’re looking to end your road trip in style, Tehran is the perfect destination. With its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and endless activities, Tehran is sure to provide the perfect end to your "Iran Road Trip".

Iran Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on an epic 14-day Road Trip covering approximately 3,320 kilometers that takes you in a loop from Tehran and back, delving deep into the heart of Iran. This journey is not just a tour of cities but a passage through centuries of history, culture, and stunning geography. From the architectural wonders of Qazvin to the winding alleys of Yazd, each stop presents its own unique story. Along the way, witness the grandeur of Isfahan's Islamic architecture, the serene beauty of Khorramabad's mountainous backdrop, and the coastal charms of Bandar e Mashshahr.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Qazvin: Discover the legendary Alamut Castle, once the stronghold of the Assassins, and marvel at the elegant Chehel Sotoun Palace, showcasing Persian artistry.
  • Khorramabad: Step back in time at the impressive Falak-ol-Aflak Castle, perched atop a hill offering panoramic views of the city and its verdant surroundings.
  • Bandar e Mashshahr: Experience the Persian Gulf's tranquil beauty and savor the freshness of local seafood dishes.
  • Abadeh: Immerse yourself in the area's rich history and natural beauty, with opportunities to explore its traditional architecture.
  • Yazd: Navigate the ancient city's labyrinthine alleys, visit the eternal flame at the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, and reflect on life and death at the Towers of Silence.
  • Isfahan: Be spellbound by the splendor of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the intricate designs of Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and the iconic bridges arching over the Zayandeh River.
  • Qom: Experience spiritual Iran at the Fatima Masumeh Shrine, a major pilgrimage site, and explore the numerous religious seminaries that make Qom the country's religious hub.

Best Time to Go:

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal for Road Tripping in Iran, offering pleasant weather, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures for exploring.

Potential Risks:

Vigilance is key when driving on less familiar Roads; be mindful of potential Road hazards, sudden weather shifts, and the need for accurate navigation. Respect local driving customs, and remain cautious on rural or unpaved Roads.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • Iran's Road network is extensive, but be prepared for varying conditions and remember that traffic in cities can be heavy.
  • English is not widely spoken, so having a Farsi phrasebook or translation app could be invaluable.
  • The Iranian Rial fluctuates, so keep up-to-date on exchange rates and have enough local currency to cover unforeseen expenses.
  • Dress conservatively in public spaces, with women required to observe the Islamic dress code (hijab).
  • Ensure all travel documentation, including visas and travel insurance, is in order before departure.

A good choice for:

Traveling through Iran by Road is an extraordinary way to engage with the country's soul. It's a path less traveled, offering a tapestry of experiences that can transform the way you see the world. With thoughtful planning and cultural awareness, this could be more than a Road Trip—it could be a historical pilgrimage, a cultural odyssey, and an adventure that resonates for a lifetime.

Facts for safer driving in Iran

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0
max speed urban max speed urban 50 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 110 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 120 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls no
seat belts seat belts yes

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