Isfahan Travel Guide (2025) | Top Attractions, Hotels & Things to Do

Isfahan, often called "Half of the World," is a city renowned for its exquisite Persian architecture, historical significance, and vibrant cultural heritage. Located in central Iran, it boasts stunning Islamic structures and beautiful landscapes.

Distance from Isfahan:

• Kerman:
  • By road: 400 km (approximately 5-6 hours by car or bus).
  • By flight: Approximately 1 hour.
• Yazd:
  • By road: 320 km (approximately 4-5 hours by car or bus).
  • By flight: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
• Shiraz:
  • By road: 550 km (approximately 7-8 hours by car or bus).
  • By flight: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• Tehran:
  • By road: 450 km (approximately 5-6 hours by car or bus).
  • By flight: Approximately 1 hour.

Key Attractions:

• Naqsh-e Jahan Square: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to magnificent palaces, mosques, and fountains.
• Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque: A stunning example of Safavid-era architecture, renowned for its intricate tile work.
• Si-o-se Pol Bridge: A historic bridge offering scenic views of the Zayanderud River.
• Isfahan Bazaar: A bustling market offering a variety of Persian handicrafts, spices, and traditional goods.

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Isfahan Transfer Options:

• Available 24/7 at various points in the city.
• Fixed fares to major destinations in Isfahan, including downtown (approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic).
• You can also book taxis from official taxi stands around the city.
• Taxi drivers usually charge based on fixed price, *Make sure you double confirm the destination and fare!
• *Never accept a ride from random people offering you cheap fares as taxi drivers.

Metro

• Working hours are from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with the Isfahan metro station connecting to Line 1, providing access to key areas of the city.
Download Metro Map

Shuttle Buses:

• Shuttle bus services are available for transfers to various parts of the city. Book in advance to confirm availability.

Car Rental:

• Car rental services are available at the airport. Booking in advance is recommended for better rates and availability.

Ride-Sharing Apps:

• Apps like Snapp(Android) - (Apple) and Tap30(android - Apple) are popular in Isfahan and offer affordable and easy-to-use ride-sharing services.

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Shahid Beheshti International Airport (IFN) Transfer Options:

Taxis:

• Available outside the airport terminals, with fares depending on the distance (around 30-40 minutes to the city center).
• Taxi drivers usually charge based on fixed price, Make sure you double confirm the destination and fare!

Public Buses:

• Public bus services are limited, check the current schedules and availability upon arrival.

Ride-Sharing Apps:

• Apps like Snapp(Android) - (Apple) and Tap30(android - Apple) are popular in Isfahan and offer affordable and easy-to-use ride-sharing services.

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Hotel Suggestions for Isfahan

1. Luxury Hotels in Isfahan

1.1. Abbasi Hotel Isfahan

• Location: Esfahan, Imam Khomeini Square, Isfahan, Iran.
• Facilities: Traditional Persian-style luxury with a beautiful courtyard, restaurant, spa, and fitness center.
• Distance to Naqsh-e Jahan Square: 1.5 km (approximately 5 minutes by car)

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1.2. Kowsar Hotel Isfahan

• Location: 16 Azar St, Isfahan, Iran.
• Facilities: Offers modern amenities, an outdoor pool, restaurant, and meeting rooms.
• Distance to Naqsh-e Jahan Square: 3 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)

1.3. Zayandehroud Hotel

• Location: Zayandehroud, Isfahan, Iran.
• Facilities: Elegant rooms with modern amenities, including a restaurant offering Iranian cuisine and a conference center.
• Distance to Naqsh-e Jahan Square: 5 km (approximately 15 minutes by car)

2. Mid-Range Hotels in Isfahan

2.1. Isfahan Traditional Hotel

• Location: 5 Chahar Bagh Ave, Isfahan, Iran.
• Facilities: Traditional rooms, restaurant, and tea house.
• Distance to Naqsh-e Jahan Square: 2 km (approximately 5 minutes by car)

2.2. Setareh Hotel

• Location: 12 Taleghani St, Isfahan, Iran.
• Facilities: Comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant.
• Distance to Naqsh-e Jahan Square: 4 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)

3. Budget Hotels in Isfahan

3.1. Isfahan Hostel

• Location: No. 45, Chahar Bagh Ave, Isfahan, Iran.
• Facilities: Budget-friendly rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a shared lounge area.
• Distance to Naqsh-e Jahan Square: 3 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)

3.2. Negin Hotel

• Location: No. 34, Hakim St, Isfahan, Iran.
• Facilities: Basic rooms with a friendly atmosphere, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
• Distance to Naqsh-e Jahan Square: 5 km (approximately 15 minutes by car)

3.3. Karbat Hotel

• Location: No. 24, Chahar Bagh Ave, Isfahan, Iran.
• Facilities: Offers basic rooms, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant.
• Distance to Naqsh-e Jahan Square: 4 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)

3.4. Venus Hotel

• Location: 6 Taleghani St, Isfahan, Iran.
• Facilities: Affordable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and an easy location for exploring the city.
• Distance to Naqsh-e Jahan Square: 3 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)

3.5. Partikan Hotel

• Location: 9 Kaveh St, Isfahan, Iran.
• Facilities: Budget-friendly rooms with a traditional touch, free Wi-Fi, and a cozy atmosphere.
• Distance to Naqsh-e Jahan Square: 6 km (approximately 15 minutes by car)

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Cafe suggestion in Isfahan

1. Café Naderi

• Location: Isfahan's historic center, near Naqsh-e Jahan Square.
• Facilities: Offers a mix of traditional and modern décor with a relaxing ambiance.
• Specialty: Persian sweets like baklava and rich coffee blends.

2. Café Shahrzad

• Location: Near the Zayandeh River, Isfahan.
• Facilities: Cozy, intimate café with a beautiful terrace overlooking the river.
• Specialty: Known for its variety of coffees and fresh pastries.

3. Toos Café

• Location: In the heart of Isfahan, close to the city's main attractions.
• Facilities: Offers a comfortable setting with both indoor and outdoor seating.
• Specialty: Persian-style coffee and delicious snacks.

4. Café Ordibehesht

• Location: Located in the 4 Bagh area, Isfahan.
• Facilities: Offers a peaceful and artistic atmosphere with beautiful interior design.
• Specialty: Known for its high-quality coffee, herbal teas, and Persian desserts.

5. Isfahan Traditional Café

• Location: Near the Grand Bazaar of Isfahan.
• Facilities: Traditional Persian interior with a historic touch.
• Specialty: Persian teas and traditional sweets.

6. Café Tahan

• Location: In the vicinity of Isfahan's modern district.
• Facilities: Elegant and contemporary design with a chic vibe.
• Specialty: Known for lattes, espresso, and cakes.

7. Lavazza Café

• Location: In a trendy part of Isfahan, close to the shopping centers.
• Facilities: Modern café with an inviting ambiance.
• Specialty: Italian coffee blends and quality pastries.

8. Khatam Café

• Location: Near the historical center of Isfahan.
• Facilities: Beautiful, calming space with comfortable seating.
• Specialty: Famous for its coffee and cozy environment.

9. Chai Kharab Café

• Location: Near Naqsh-e Jahan Square.
• Facilities: Offers a relaxed atmosphere with traditional Persian design.
• Specialty: Persian tea and fresh pastries.

10. Saffron Café

• Location: On the outskirts of Isfahan, near cultural areas.
• Facilities: Stylish café with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
• Specialty: Known for its saffron-flavored coffee and desserts.

11. Lamiz Café

• Location: Located near Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Isfahan.
• Facilities: Modern, cozy, and vibrant, with both indoor and outdoor seating.
• Specialty: Known for its wide selection of cold brews, lattes, and unique desserts.

Restaurant suggestion in Isfahan

1. Shahrzad Restaurant

• Location: Located in the heart of Isfahan, close to Naqsh-e Jahan Square and other historic attractions.
• Facilities: Known for its beautiful traditional Persian décor, this restaurant provides both indoor and outdoor seating with a cozy ambiance.
• Specialty: Famous for its rich kebabs, stews, and traditional Persian rice dishes like Polo and Chelo.

2. Bagh-e-Mehr Restaurant

• Location: Situated in a peaceful area of Isfahan, Bagh-e-Mehr offers a charming environment near the Zayandeh River.
• Facilities: An elegant, spacious setting with both indoor and outdoor seating, ideal for both family and business gatherings.
• Specialty: Known for its delicious Persian kebabs and stews, as well as fresh seasonal ingredients in their dishes.

3. Kaveh Restaurant

• Location: Located near Isfahan's historic center, this restaurant offers easy access to the main attractions in the city.
• Facilities: A classic Persian restaurant with traditional seating and warm, welcoming service.
• Specialty: Famous for its grilled lamb chops, kebabs, and a variety of fresh Persian salads and appetizers.

4. Sofreh Khaneh Mehr

• Location: Situated in the central area of Isfahan, near the famous bridges and historical sites.
• Facilities: Offers a warm, traditional atmosphere, with Persian carpets and wood-beamed ceilings, providing a cultural dining experience.
• Specialty: Known for its authentic Persian stews, kebabs, and a range of traditional side dishes such as Sabzi Khordan and Shirazi Salad.

5. Azadegan Restaurant

• Location: Located near the city’s main cultural landmarks, this restaurant provides a stunning view of the historical sites.
• Facilities: With its modern décor and spacious dining area, Azadegan offers a refined dining experience with attentive service.
• Specialty: Famous for its rich Persian rice dishes, kebabs, and flavorful stews such as Fesenjan and Gheymé.

6. The Traditional Restaurant of Isfahan

• Location: In the heart of Isfahan’s ancient district, offering easy access to Naqsh-e Jahan Square and historical landmarks.
• Facilities: A beautiful combination of modern and traditional Iranian designs, providing an atmospheric and comfortable dining setting.
• Specialty: Known for its selection of Persian dishes, including grilled meats, stews, and freshly baked bread.

7. Vaziri Restaurant

• Location: A well-known establishment located near some of Isfahan's main cultural areas.
• Facilities: Offers a luxurious, traditional setting with high ceilings, Persian artwork, and an upscale dining experience.
• Specialty: Famous for its varied kebabs, grilled meats, and signature Persian rice dishes.

8. Isfahan Traditional Restaurant

• Location: Situated in the central part of Isfahan, near the main attractions and markets.
• Facilities: A rustic atmosphere with classic Persian décor, providing a cultural experience with both indoor and outdoor seating.
• Specialty: Known for its hearty traditional Persian stews, grilled meats, and fresh side dishes.

9. Topchi Restaurant

• Location: Located near the Zayandeh River, offering a scenic view while enjoying your meal.
• Facilities: Offers a peaceful environment with beautiful surroundings and modern dining facilities.
• Specialty: Famous for its lamb chops, kebabs, and grilled meats, alongside flavorful Persian salads.

10. The House of Shater Abbas

• Location: Near the historical center of Isfahan, close to key tourist attractions like Naqsh-e Jahan Square.
• Facilities: This restaurant offers a traditional Persian environment with a cozy atmosphere and friendly service.
• Specialty: Known for its traditional Persian kebabs, stews, and unique regional dishes.

11. Namakan Restaurant

• Location: Located in the heart of Isfahan, offering a great view of the city and easily accessible to major landmarks.
• Facilities: This elegant and spacious restaurant combines modern and traditional Persian elements in its design, offering both indoor and outdoor seating options.
• Specialty: Known for its delightful Persian kebabs, stews, and unique regional dishes, particularly the Lamb Shank and Khoresh Gheymé.

Top 10 Sightseeing Locations in Isfahan

1. Naqsh-e Jahan Square (Imam Square)

• Location: Located in the center of Isfahan, it’s one of the largest squares in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Facilities: The square is surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and beautiful gardens, and is a hub for cultural and historical exploration.
• Specialty: Known for its breathtaking architecture, including the Shah Mosque, Ali Qapu Palace, and the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, all offering stunning examples of Persian Islamic architecture.

2. Isfahan Grand Bazaar

• Location: Located near Naqsh-e Jahan Square, this bazaar is one of the oldest and most important commercial hubs in the region.
• Facilities: Offers a maze of alleys filled with shops selling traditional Persian carpets, textiles, spices, and handicrafts.
• Specialty: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the bazaar is a perfect place to immerse yourself in local culture and shop for unique souvenirs.

3. Si-o-se-pol (Bridge of 33 Arches)

• Location: Situated across the Zayandeh River, Si-o-se-pol is one of Isfahan’s most iconic bridges.
• Facilities: The bridge has a walkway for pedestrians and offers a scenic view of the river and surrounding area.
• Specialty: Known for its grand 33 arches and beautiful reflections in the river, especially during sunset, making it a popular spot for photography.

4. Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque

• Location: Located on the eastern side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, this mosque is one of Isfahan’s architectural masterpieces.
• Facilities: Known for its unique dome, intricate tile work, and peaceful courtyard, this mosque has a small but highly decorative prayer hall.
• Specialty: Famous for its stunning tile designs and the beautiful symmetry that makes it one of the most photographed buildings in Iran.

5. Chehel Sotoun (Palace of Forty Columns)

• Location: Located in the eastern part of Isfahan, this palace is set amidst a lush garden by the Zayandeh River.
• Facilities: Features a large, beautiful garden with a reflecting pool and a pavilion that houses exquisite frescoes and tile works.
• Specialty: Known for its 20 wooden columns that reflect in the pool, the pavilion and surrounding gardens offer a glimpse into Isfahan’s royal history.

6. Ali Qapu Palace

• Location: Situated on the western side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, it’s a grand historical building and former royal residence.
• Facilities: Offers a multi-story palace with ornate frescoes, tiled walls, and beautiful balconies that overlook the square.
• Specialty: Known for its stunning architecture and the beautifully painted rooms, especially the music room on the top floor.

7. Vank Cathedral

• Location: Located in the Armenian quarter of Isfahan, this cathedral is an important symbol of Isfahan’s diverse cultural heritage.
• Facilities: Features beautiful Armenian-style architecture, frescoes, and a unique blend of Persian and Christian elements.
• Specialty: Famous for its intricate frescoes and its unique architectural style, combining Persian Islamic and Armenian Christian influences.

8. Khaju Bridge

• Location: Situated near the Zayandeh River, Khaju Bridge is another iconic bridge in Isfahan.
• Facilities: Known for its large central pavilion, the bridge is a place for both locals and tourists to stroll and enjoy the view of the river.
• Specialty: Famous for its stunning tile work and its dual purpose as a bridge and a dam during the Safavid era.

9. Isfahan Music Museum

• Location: Located in the historic district of Isfahan, the museum is dedicated to showcasing traditional Iranian music.
• Facilities: Features a collection of traditional Persian musical instruments, as well as exhibits and performances.
• Specialty: Known for its interactive exhibits, offering visitors a chance to learn about the history and evolution of Iranian music.

10. Zayandeh River

• Location: The Zayandeh River runs through the center of Isfahan, offering scenic views across the city.
• Facilities: There are several pedestrian paths along the river, and bridges like Si-o-se-pol and Khaju Bridge provide access across the river.
• Specialty: Famous for its picturesque views, particularly during sunrise and sunset, with the historic bridges providing a perfect photo opportunity.

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Dress Code in Iran

Dress Code for Women

Women must cover their hair with a headscarf (hijab) and wear long sleeves, pants, or skirts that cover their legs.

It is important to follow the dress code, as it is strictly enforced in public spaces and government buildings.

Dress Code for Men

Men should wear modest clothing. While there's no strict requirement for head coverings, they must avoid wearing shorts in public.

It is recommended to wear long pants and avoid sleeveless tops in public spaces.

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Safety in Iran

General Safety

isfahan in general considered one of the very safe cities in Iran

Iran is generally safe for tourists, with low levels of violent crime. The streets in major cities are well-patrolled.

It's important to stay cautious in crowded places to avoid petty theft like pickpocketing.

Political Safety

Avoid discussing politics, religion, or the government as these topics can be sensitive.

It's best to stay away from public demonstrations or protests to avoid drawing unwanted attention.

Road Safety

Road conditions vary, and driving can be challenging due to heavy traffic and erratic driving styles.

Public transportation is widely available, and taxis are generally safe to use. Always agree on the fare in advance.

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Exchange Shops in Isfahan

Important Note: Isfahan’s main exchange shops are mostly located around the historic areas and commercial hubs like the Isfahan Grand Bazaar. As with any city, it’s advisable to use established exchange shops rather than dealing with individuals offering seemingly better rates. These individuals may not provide safe or legitimate transactions. Always use trusted exchange shops to ensure secure and reliable exchanges.

Exchange Rate Note: The exchange rate of the Iranian Rial (IRR) fluctuates daily and is highly variable. It is almost impossible to find an accurate rate on platforms like Google. Rates in the local market are dynamic and change frequently.

1. Isfahan Grand Bazaar Exchange

• Location: Isfahan Grand Bazaar, Isfahan, Iran
• Best for: Ideal for exchanging a wide variety of currencies, especially popular ones like the US Dollar and Euro, with reliable rates.

2. Ferdowsi Exchange

• Location: Ferdowsi Square, Isfahan, Iran
• Best for: Known for competitive rates and convenience, especially for tourists visiting the central parts of Isfahan.

3. Shahrak-e-Moalem Exchange

• Location: Shahrak-e-Moalem, Isfahan, Iran
• Best for: Great for exchanging both major currencies and local regional currencies with transparent and secure transactions.

4. Melli Exchange

• Location: Valiasr Street, Isfahan, Iran
• Best for: A well-known exchange for both locals and tourists, offering reliable services and decent rates.

5. Parsian Exchange

• Location: Isfahan, Iran
• Best for: Offering good exchange rates for major world currencies, particularly for business transactions and travel needs.

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