Jurisdiction Guide

Mid-March to early May and late September to October fit most regions, with comfortable temperatures. Summers scorch the south and central deserts, while winters bring snow in the northwest.

Cash is king due to banking restrictions, so bring enough euros or dollars to exchange. Taxis are cheap but agree on the fare first or use official booking apps like Snapp. English is limited, especially outside big cities; a translation app or phrasebook helps. Buy a local SIM card at the airport for coverage and cheap data. Tipping is appreciated but not required, usually 5-10 percent in restaurants.

Dress modestly: women must cover their hair and wear loose outerwear, men should avoid shorts. Greet people with a handshake or nod, but avoid physical contact between unrelated men and women in public. Remove shoes before entering someone's home. Refuse an offer at least once, as it's polite to insist (ta'arof). Do not photograph government buildings or military sites.

Petty theft is rare but guard wallets and phones in crowded bazaars. Road accidents are common, so cross streets carefully and watch for reckless driving. Tap water is safe in larger cities but bottled water is widely available if you're unsure. Smog can be severe in Tehran during winter.

Palangan, a stepped stone village tucked in Kurdistan province, offers hiking and traditional Kurdish food. The Kaluts in Lut Desert give surreal sand formations and silent stargazing. Masuleh, a forested mountain village in the north, has houses stacked atop each other and misty weather.

Most travelers need to arrange a visa before arrival; visa on arrival is possible for some nationalities at major airports but not for US, UK, or Canadian citizens. Online e-visa applications streamline the process but expect delays. There is no digital nomad or remote worker visa pathway.

Long-distance buses link most cities cheaply and comfortably. Trains cover some routes, like Tehran to Mashhad or Isfahan, but schedules can be sporadic. Domestic flights connect major cities. Driving is possible with an international permit, though the style is aggressive. Snapp and Tap30 apps work like Uber for short city rides.

Kebabs, saffron rice, and rich stews like ghormeh sabzi or fesenjan are staples. Dizi (lamb and chickpea stew) is a rustic highlight. Black tea is served everywhere; alcohol is banned. Street snacks are safe if fresh, but stick to busy spots for grilled meats. Vegetarian dishes exist, ash reshteh (herb stew) or kashk-e bademjan (eggplant dip), but options are less common outside large cities.

Iran can be very affordable compared to Europe or Gulf states. Backpackers get by on $25 a day, while mid-range comfort may cost $60–$100. Tehran sees the highest prices for hotels and taxis, while smaller cities and villages are much cheaper. A typical meal at a local restaurant costs $2–$5 per person.