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

Shiraz, often referred to as the city of poets, literature, and gardens, is a historical city in the south of Iran. Known for its cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens, Shiraz is a must-visit for anyone interested in Persian history and culture.

Key Attractions:

• Persepolis: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Persepolis is an ancient ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, famous for its grand ruins and historical significance.
• Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: Known for its vibrant stained-glass windows, this mosque is a stunning example of Persian Islamic architecture and a popular photographic spot.
• Hafez Tomb: The final resting place of the famous Persian poet Hafez, this site is a tranquil garden where visitors can pay homage to his poetry.
• Vakil Bazaar: A traditional Persian market offering a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and handicrafts, housed in a historic building with beautiful arches and corridors.

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Shiraz Transfer Options:

• Available 24/7 at various points in the city.
• Fixed fares to major destinations in Shiraz, including downtown (approximately 20 to 40 minutes 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 Shiraz 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 Shiraz and offer affordable and easy-to-use ride-sharing services.

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Shiraz International Airport (SYZ) 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 Shiraz and offer affordable and easy-to-use ride-sharing services.

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Hotel Suggestions for Shiraz

1. Luxury Hotels in Shiraz

1.1. Shiraz Grand Hotel

• Location: Modares Blvd, Shiraz, Iran.
• Facilities: Modern luxury with spacious rooms, outdoor pool, restaurant, and a fitness center.
• Distance to Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: 3 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)

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1.2. Zandiyeh Hotel

• Location: Zand St, Shiraz, Iran.
• Facilities: Offers classic Persian luxury, a beautiful courtyard, spa, and fine dining options.
• Distance to Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: 2.5 km (approximately 5 minutes by car)

1.3. Parsian Evin Hotel

• Location: 20th Ave, Shiraz, Iran.
• Facilities: Elegant rooms, restaurant, conference center, and free Wi-Fi.
• Distance to Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: 4 km (approximately 15 minutes by car)

2. Mid-Range Hotels in Shiraz

2.1. Karimkhan Hotel

• Location: Karim Khan Zand St, Shiraz, Iran.
• Facilities: Comfortable rooms, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
• Distance to Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: 1 km (approximately 5 minutes by car)

2.2. Chamran Grand Hotel

• Location: Chamran Blvd, Shiraz, Iran.
• Facilities: Spacious rooms, a large swimming pool, restaurant, and conference facilities.
• Distance to Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: 6 km (approximately 15 minutes by car)

3. Budget Hotels in Shiraz

3.1. Shiraz Hostel

• Location: No. 45, Zand St, Shiraz, Iran.
• Facilities: Budget-friendly rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a shared lounge area.
• Distance to Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: 2 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)

3.2. Negin Hotel

• Location: No. 12, Hakim St, Shiraz, Iran.
• Facilities: Basic rooms with a friendly atmosphere, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
• Distance to Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: 5 km (approximately 15 minutes by car)

3.3. Fars Hotel

• Location: No. 21, Karimkhan Zand St, Shiraz, Iran.
• Facilities: Affordable rooms with a cozy atmosphere, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant.
• Distance to Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: 4 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)

3.4. Pars Hotel

• Location: No. 6, Taleghani St, Shiraz, Iran.
• Facilities: Affordable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and an easy location for exploring the city.
• Distance to Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: 3 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)

3.5. Homa Hotel

• Location: 9 Kaveh St, Shiraz, Iran.
• Facilities: Budget-friendly rooms with a traditional touch, free Wi-Fi, and a cozy atmosphere.
• Distance to Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: 6 km (approximately 15 minutes by car)

3.6. Arg Hotel

• Location: Arg Square, Shiraz, Iran.
• Facilities: Budget-friendly rooms, traditional Persian décor, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
• Distance to Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: 2.5 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)

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Cafe suggestion in Shiraz

1. Café Shater Abbas

• Location: Located near the Vakil Bazaar, Shiraz.
• Facilities: A charming café with traditional Persian décor and cozy seating.
• Specialty: Known for its Persian-style coffee and saffron desserts.

2. Café Niloofar

• Location: Close to the historic Eram Garden, Shiraz.
• Facilities: A modern yet cozy café offering a relaxing atmosphere and indoor seating.
• Specialty: Specializes in a variety of teas and freshly baked pastries.

3. Café Tehroon

• Location: In the heart of Shiraz, near the main shopping streets.
• Facilities: A modern café with a stylish design and comfortable seating options.
• Specialty: Known for its espresso drinks and delicious sandwiches.

4. Café Goli

• Location: Located near the Karim Khan Citadel, Shiraz.
• Facilities: Offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with a relaxed ambiance.
• Specialty: Famous for its Persian teas, ice creams, and light snacks.

5. Hami Café

• Location: Near the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, Shiraz.
• Facilities: A contemporary café with a mix of modern and traditional décor.
• Specialty: Specializes in Persian sweets, coffee, and refreshing drinks.

6. Café Roudaki

• Location: Near the Roudaki Park, Shiraz.
• Facilities: A peaceful spot with comfortable seating and an inviting atmosphere.
• Specialty: Known for its traditional Persian tea and freshly made pastries.

7. Café Zand

• Location: Close to the Zand Bridge, Shiraz.
• Facilities: Offers a cozy environment with a variety of seating options.
• Specialty: Famous for its wide selection of teas, cakes, and coffee drinks.

8. Café Gandom

• Location: In the central part of Shiraz, near the Vakil Mosque.
• Facilities: A quiet and peaceful setting perfect for reading or working.
• Specialty: Known for its homemade cookies, cakes, and a great selection of teas.

9. Café Negin

• Location: Located near the city center of Shiraz.
• Facilities: A cozy, modern café with an inviting ambiance.
• Specialty: Specializes in hot and iced coffee beverages and fresh pastries.

10. Café Saffron

• Location: Near the Shiraz Grand Bazaar.
• Facilities: Traditional Persian design with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating options.
• Specialty: Known for its saffron-based coffee drinks and desserts.

Restaurant suggestion in Shiraz

1. Shater Abbas Restaurant

• Location: Located in the center of Shiraz, near the famous historical sites.
• Facilities: Traditional Persian décor with both indoor and outdoor seating options, offering a cozy and welcoming ambiance.
• Specialty: Famous for its grilled kebabs, stews, and Persian rice dishes like Chelo and Polo.

2. Haft Khan Restaurant

• Location: Situated in a peaceful area of Shiraz, offering a view of the city’s landscape.
• Facilities: A multi-level restaurant offering an elegant atmosphere, ideal for both casual and formal dining experiences.
• Specialty: Known for its extensive menu of Persian dishes, including a variety of kebabs, stews, and traditional appetizers.

3. Hami Restaurant

• Location: Close to the central district of Shiraz, near the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque.
• Facilities: A traditional Persian restaurant with both indoor and outdoor seating options, designed to create a cultural dining experience.
• Specialty: Famous for its fresh Persian stews, grilled lamb, and delicious side dishes like Shirazi Salad.

4. Parsian Restaurant

• Location: Located near the historical area of Shiraz, providing easy access to key landmarks.
• Facilities: Modern and luxurious décor with spacious dining areas, offering a fine dining experience.
• Specialty: Known for its Persian kebabs, stews like Fesenjan, and a variety of rice dishes.

5. Saffron Restaurant

• Location: Situated near the Vakil Bazaar and key cultural attractions of Shiraz.
• Facilities: A stylish and cozy environment, with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
• Specialty: Specializes in saffron-infused Persian dishes, such as saffron rice, stews, and desserts.

6. Roozegar Restaurant

• Location: In a vibrant area of Shiraz, close to the city’s popular cultural and historical sites.
• Facilities: Traditional Persian décor with a relaxed, comfortable ambiance and friendly service.
• Specialty: Known for its fresh Persian kebabs, stews, and a selection of traditional side dishes.

7. Bagh-e-Negah Restaurant

• Location: Near the Eram Garden, one of Shiraz’s most famous historical sites.
• Facilities: A beautiful garden-style setting, providing an outdoor dining experience in a tranquil environment.
• Specialty: Famous for its Persian grilled meats, including lamb chops, chicken kebabs, and stews.

8. Namakdan Restaurant

• Location: Located in central Shiraz, close to the city’s main cultural landmarks.
• Facilities: Offers a blend of modern and traditional décor, with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
• Specialty: Known for its variety of Persian stews, rice dishes, and freshly baked bread.

9. Jahan Nama Restaurant

• Location: Located near the Vakil Mosque, this restaurant provides a great view of the surrounding area.
• Facilities: A charming, cozy space with traditional Persian elements and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Specialty: Known for its diverse menu of Persian dishes, including kebabs, stews, and fresh salads.

10. Kian Restaurant

• Location: Situated near the city center, providing easy access to major attractions.
• Facilities: A luxurious setting with modern décor and excellent service.
• Specialty: Famous for its Persian kebabs, fresh seasonal dishes, and selection of Persian desserts.

11. Delgosha Restaurant

• Location: Located near the beautiful Delgosha Garden in Shiraz.
• Facilities: A peaceful garden setting with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
• Specialty: Known for its traditional Persian dishes, including stews, kebabs, and fresh bread.

Top 10 Sightseeing Locations in Shiraz

1. Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque)

• Location: Located in the heart of Shiraz, this mosque is one of the most famous landmarks of the city.
• Facilities: Known for its stunning stained-glass windows, creating a beautiful play of colors inside the mosque, especially in the morning light.
• Specialty: Famous for its vibrant and intricate tile work, and the ethereal beauty created by the sunlight streaming through the colored glass windows.

2. Persepolis

• Location: Located about 60 km northeast of Shiraz, Persepolis is one of the most important ancient archaeological sites in Iran.
• Facilities: Features extensive ruins, including grand palaces, ceremonial gates, and the famous Apadana Hall.
• Specialty: Known for its historical significance as the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, showcasing impressive ruins and ancient Persian architecture.

3. Eram Garden

• Location: Located in the north of Shiraz, Eram Garden is one of the most beautiful Persian gardens in the city.
• Facilities: A lush garden with colorful flowers, tall cypress trees, a large reflecting pool, and a historic mansion at its center.
• Specialty: Famous for its scenic beauty, Eram Garden is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its perfect representation of Persian garden design.

4. Vakil Bazaar

• Location: Situated in the heart of Shiraz, close to the Vakil Mosque and other key landmarks.
• Facilities: Offers a labyrinth of narrow alleys lined with shops selling traditional Persian goods, spices, carpets, and handicrafts.
• Specialty: Known for its lively atmosphere and historical architecture, this bazaar is a great place to shop and experience local culture.

5. Tomb of Hafez

• Location: Located in the northeast of Shiraz, the tomb of the famous Persian poet Hafez is a popular cultural and historical site.
• Facilities: The tomb is set in a peaceful garden with a marble structure commemorating the poet, surrounded by tall cypress trees and fountains.
• Specialty: Famous as a place of reflection and inspiration for both locals and visitors, known for its beautiful poetry inscriptions and tranquil setting.

6. Tomb of Saadi

• Location: Situated in the Shiraz countryside, this tomb is dedicated to the great Persian poet Saadi.
• Facilities: A beautifully designed tomb with a garden, a reflective pool, and inscriptions of Saadi's poetry adorning the tomb’s walls.
• Specialty: Known for its serene atmosphere and poetic legacy, this site is a tribute to the life and work of Saadi, one of Persia's most beloved poets.

7. Vakil Mosque

• Location: Located near the Vakil Bazaar, this mosque is an important example of Safavid-era architecture in Shiraz.
• Facilities: Features a large courtyard, intricate tile work, and a beautifully designed prayer hall.
• Specialty: Famous for its symmetrical design, vast inner space, and historical significance as one of Shiraz's key religious sites.

8. Qavam House (Narenjestan-e Qavam)

• Location: Located in the city center, this historical house is an example of traditional Persian residential architecture.
• Facilities: Includes a beautiful garden, reflecting pool, and a mansion with intricate tile work, wooden panels, and antique furniture.
• Specialty: Known for its architectural beauty and its role in showcasing the lifestyle of wealthy families during the Qajar period.

9. Shapur Cave

• Location: Located about 6 km from the ancient city of Bishapur, in the Zagros Mountains.
• Facilities: The cave features impressive stone carvings of Sassanid kings, including a large statue of King Shapur I.
• Specialty: Famous for its historical significance, the cave showcases Persian art and inscriptions from the Sassanid era.

10. Bagh-e-Naz Archaeological Site

• Location: Situated just outside of Shiraz, this site is an ancient Persian garden with remnants of an old palace and structures.
• Facilities: Features ancient stonework, beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, and well-preserved garden sections.
• Specialty: Known for its historical significance and tranquil garden setting, it is a great spot for a peaceful visit and exploration of ancient Persian heritage.

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

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 Shiraz

Important Note: Shiraz’s main exchange shops are located around the city’s commercial centers, including areas near the Vakil Bazaar and other busy streets. As always, it’s advisable to use established exchange shops instead of dealing with individuals offering seemingly better rates. Such transactions may not be safe or legitimate. Use trusted exchange shops for 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. Vakil Bazaar Exchange

• Location: Vakil Bazaar, Shiraz, Iran
• Best for: Known for competitive exchange rates for major currencies such as the US Dollar and Euro, making it a popular choice for tourists visiting the bazaar area.

2. Saadi Exchange

• Location: Saadi Street, Shiraz, Iran
• Best for: Offering good rates for both major foreign currencies and regional currencies, ideal for those staying in the central parts of Shiraz.

3. Ferdowsi Exchange

• Location: Ferdowsi Square, Shiraz, Iran
• Best for: Well-regarded for transparent transactions and competitive exchange rates, particularly useful for travelers and business transactions.

4. Melli Exchange

• Location: Zand Street, Shiraz, Iran
• Best for: Offers reliable exchange services with decent rates, a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

5. Parsian Exchange

• Location: Shiraz, Iran
• Best for: Known for offering good exchange rates for international currencies, particularly for travelers needing a quick exchange service.

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