Tehran Travel Guide (2025) | Top Attractions, Hotels & Things to Do
Tabriz, the capital of East Azerbaijan province, is one of Iran's oldest cities and a hub for Persian culture and history. Known for its rich heritage, Tabriz is famous for its historical sites, traditional bazaars, and stunning landscapes. It has long been a crossroads of civilizations, connecting Persia with the world via the Silk Road.
Distance from Tabriz:
- Tehran:
- By road: 620 km (approximately 7-8 hours by car or bus).
- By flight: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Shiraz:
- By road: 1,000 km (approximately 12-14 hours by car or bus).
- By flight: Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
- Isfahan:
- By road: 590 km (approximately 7-8 hours by car or bus).
- By flight: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Yazd:
- By road: 800 km (approximately 10-11 hours by car or bus).
- By flight: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Key Attractions:
- Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sprawling bazaar is one of the oldest and largest in the Middle East, famous for its vaulted roofs and traditional Persian architecture.
- Blue Mosque: An iconic example of Islamic architecture, known for its stunning blue tiles and intricate designs, dating back to the 15th century.
- Tabriz Citadel (Arg-e Tabriz): A historic fortress located in the city center, offering a glimpse into the military history of the region.
- El Goli Park: A beautiful park with a large pond in the center and a palace on the island, offering a peaceful retreat with picturesque views.
- Kandovan Village: A unique village built into volcanic rocks, where homes are carved into the rock formations, offering a glimpse into the ancient and traditional way of life.
Tabriz Transfer Options:
- Available 24/7 at various points in the city, ensuring convenience for both locals and tourists.
- Fixed fares to major destinations in Tabriz, including downtown (approximately 20-40 minutes depending on traffic conditions).
- Official taxi stands are located at key spots in the city like the railway station, major hotels, and shopping centers.
- Taxi drivers usually charge based on fixed rates, but it's recommended to double-check the fare before starting the trip, especially for longer distances.
- *Do not accept rides from random individuals offering cheap fares or claiming to be taxi drivers. This ensures both safety and reliability during your journey.
Metro
- The Tabriz metro system operates from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with efficient connections between major parts of the city, including the commercial and residential areas.
- Currently, Tabriz has Line 1 of the metro, which covers key locations such as Tabriz Railway Station, Martyrs Square, and other key hubs. The metro is a quick and cost-effective way to navigate through the city.
Download Metro Map
Shuttle Buses:
- Shuttle bus services are available from various points in the city to major commercial areas, as well as transport terminals. It’s best to check for availability and make advance bookings when possible to avoid waiting times.
Car Rental:
- Car rental services are offered at Tabriz International Airport and within the city. Booking in advance is highly recommended for better rates and to secure availability, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Ride-Sharing Apps:
- Ride-sharing apps like Snapp(Android) - (Apple) and Tap30(android - Apple) are widely used for hassle-free, affordable, and easy-to-use rides in Tabriz. Make sure to check the app for live availability and prices before booking a ride.
Tabriz International Airport (TBZ) Transfer Options:
Taxis:
- Taxis are available right outside the airport terminals. The journey to Tabriz city center typically takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
- Taxi fares are generally fixed, but it’s always a good idea to confirm the price before departure to avoid any confusion later on.
Public Buses:
- Public buses from the airport are available and offer a more budget-friendly option for getting to different parts of Tabriz. Bus schedules can vary, so it's important to check the latest available routes and timings once you arrive.
Ride-Sharing Apps:
- Ride-sharing apps like Snapp(Android) - (Apple) and Tap30(android - Apple) are available in Tabriz for easy access to rides. Both offer affordable and user-friendly services, ensuring comfort and safety for travelers.
Hotel Suggestions for Tabriz
1. Luxury Hotels in Tabriz
1.1. Shabestar Hotel Tabriz
- Location: Shabestar, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: A luxurious hotel offering spacious rooms, modern amenities, a fitness center, restaurant, and event spaces. It has a beautiful view of the surrounding landscapes.
- Distance to Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex: 13 km (approximately 20 minutes by car)
1.2. Pars Hotel Tabriz
- Location: Imam Khomeini Square, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: A well-established hotel with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, conference halls, and free Wi-Fi.
- Distance to Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex: 1 km (approximately 5 minutes by car)
1.3. Gostaresh Hotel
- Location: Gostaresh St, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: Offers upscale services, modern décor, a large restaurant, fitness center, and business facilities.
- Distance to Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex: 6 km (approximately 15 minutes by car)
2. Mid-Range Hotels in Tabriz
2.1. Tabriz International Hotel
- Location: Next to Shahr Park, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: Comfortable, modern rooms, a restaurant with local and international cuisine, a coffee shop, and free Wi-Fi.
- Distance to Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex: 5 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)
2.2. Sahand Hotel
- Location: Next to Sahand Boulevard, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: Offers convenient rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi. Popular for its comfortable and practical setting.
- Distance to Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex: 7 km (approximately 15 minutes by car)
3. Budget Hotels in Tabriz
3.1. Laleh Hotel
- Location: Golestan Blvd, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: Basic rooms with free Wi-Fi, a cozy restaurant offering local dishes, and affordable rates for those on a budget.
- Distance to Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex: 4 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)
3.2. Shahrdari Hotel
- Location: Shahrdari Square, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: Simple rooms with basic facilities, free Wi-Fi, and a comfortable environment for short stays.
- Distance to Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex: 3 km (approximately 5 minutes by car)
3.3. Tabriz Hostel
- Location: Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: Budget-friendly dormitory-style rooms, free Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, and lounge area. Ideal for backpackers and solo travelers.
- Distance to Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex: 6 km (approximately 15 minutes by car)
3.4. Azarbayjan Hotel
- Location: Azarbayjan St, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: Affordable, clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a simple restaurant. A good choice for budget-conscious travelers.
- Distance to Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex: 4 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)
3.5. Naderi Hotel
- Location: Naderi St, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: Budget-friendly hotel with basic services, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant offering local cuisine.
- Distance to Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex: 5 km (approximately 10 minutes by car)
Cafe Suggestions in Tabriz
1. Café Naderi Tabriz
- Location: Imam Khomeini Square, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: A classic Persian café with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful décor. Offers a blend of modern and traditional styles.
- Specialty: Persian sweets, particularly baklava, and strong Iranian coffee blends.
2. Café Shams
- Location: Shams Ave, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: A trendy café offering both indoor and outdoor seating, with a contemporary design and cozy atmosphere.
- Specialty: Known for its excellent coffee, espresso-based drinks, and a variety of Persian teas.
3. Café Taraz
- Location: Alavi St, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: A stylish and modern café with a relaxing vibe and beautiful, minimalist interior.
- Specialty: A wide selection of lattes, cappuccinos, and fresh pastries.
4. Café Rumi
- Location: Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: This café has a calm atmosphere with an artistic and cultural design, inspired by Persian heritage.
- Specialty: Persian-inspired beverages and desserts, particularly saffron ice cream and traditional teas.
5. Lavazza Café Tabriz
- Location: In the downtown area, near the shopping districts, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: A modern café with a contemporary setting, perfect for a casual coffee break or meeting friends.
- Specialty: Italian coffee blends, espresso-based drinks, and freshly made pastries.
6. Toos Café
- Location: In the central part of Tabriz, close to key landmarks.
- Facilities: Offers a cozy and warm setting with both indoor and outdoor seating options, making it ideal for both groups and individuals.
- Specialty: Known for its variety of Persian-style coffee, fresh juices, and light snacks.
7. Khatam Café
- Location: Near the Tabriz Grand Bazaar, Tabriz, Iran.
- Facilities: A charming café with a traditional Persian décor, offering a serene atmosphere to relax and enjoy a beverage.
- Specialty: Famous for Persian tea, traditional pastries, and light bites.
8. Café Tahan
- Location: In the modern district of Tabriz, near shopping and cultural centers.
- Facilities: A chic, elegant café with a contemporary design, offering a vibrant atmosphere for enjoying coffee or dessert.
- Specialty: Espresso drinks, iced lattes, and delicious cakes and pastries.
9. Chai Kharab Café
- Location: In the heart of Tabriz's historic district.
- Facilities: A relaxed, casual space designed with traditional Persian elements, making it an ideal spot for tea lovers.
- Specialty: Persian chai and various types of sweets, such as saffron cookies and pastries.
10. Saffron Café
- Location: Near cultural areas of Tabriz, on the outskirts of the city.
- Facilities: A stylish café offering indoor and outdoor seating, ideal for social gatherings or quiet moments of relaxation.
- Specialty: Known for saffron-infused coffee, Persian desserts, and a wide selection of teas.
11. Lamiz Café
- Location: Near Tabriz's historic center.
- Facilities: Modern and cozy, with vibrant décor and a comfortable ambiance.
- Specialty: Offers a range of cold brews, iced lattes, and unique dessert options.
Restaurant Suggestions in Tabriz
1. Shater Abbas Restaurant
- Location: Tabriz, close to historical sites such as the Tabriz Grand Bazaar.
- Facilities: A traditional Persian restaurant offering both indoor and outdoor seating in a cozy atmosphere.
- Specialty: Known for its succulent kebabs, stews, and fresh traditional Persian dishes.
2. Bagh-e-Shomal Restaurant
- Location: Situated near the scenic areas in Tabriz, offering a beautiful view of the surrounding nature.
- Facilities: Offers a spacious outdoor seating area, with traditional décor and a family-friendly environment.
- Specialty: Famous for its Persian barbecue and fresh local ingredients.
3. Tabriz Traditional Restaurant
- Location: Located in the heart of Tabriz near local landmarks.
- Facilities: Provides a cultural dining experience with traditional décor and an extensive menu of local dishes.
- Specialty: Known for its regional dishes such as Kofteh Tabrizi and fresh herbs.
4. Kandovan Restaurant
- Location: Located near the famous Kandovan Village, known for its unique architecture.
- Facilities: A cozy and warm setting with stunning views of the surrounding rock homes and mountains.
- Specialty: Known for its stews, grilled meats, and traditional Azerbaijani-style kebabs.
5. Haidari Restaurant
- Location: A modern dining spot in the city center of Tabriz, providing easy access to local attractions.
- Facilities: Offers a contemporary atmosphere with comfortable seating and attentive service.
- Specialty: Famous for its grilled meats, stews, and Persian rice dishes.
Top 10 Sightseeing Locations in Tabriz
1. Tabriz Grand Bazaar
- Location: Located in the heart of Tabriz, this bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world.
- Facilities: A maze of alleys filled with shops offering traditional Persian goods, such as carpets, spices, textiles, and handicrafts.
- Specialty: Known for its lively atmosphere and rich history, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and an essential stop for those interested in Iranian culture.
2. Blue Mosque
- Location: Situated in the central area of Tabriz, this mosque is a masterpiece of Safavid architecture.
- Facilities: A stunning building with beautiful blue tiles, intricate Persian designs, and peaceful surroundings.
- Specialty: Famous for its exquisite tile work and blue color, this mosque is an iconic historical landmark in Tabriz.
3. El Goli Park
- Location: Located in the southern part of Tabriz, El Goli is a scenic park with a large artificial lake in the center.
- Facilities: Offers walking paths, boating, picnic areas, and a palace on an island in the center of the lake.
- Specialty: Known for its natural beauty and the historical palace, it’s a popular spot for relaxation and leisure activities.
4. Tabriz Citadel (Arg-e Tabriz)
- Location: Located in the old city center of Tabriz, this historical fortress dates back to the Safavid period.
- Facilities: The citadel features large brick walls, towers, and a courtyard, offering a glimpse into Tabriz’s medieval past.
- Specialty: Known for its strategic location and impressive architecture, it’s a symbol of Tabriz’s historical significance.
5. Quba Mosque
- Location: Situated in the central part of Tabriz, near the bazaar area.
- Facilities: A historic mosque with beautiful tile work, featuring a peaceful atmosphere and architectural beauty.
- Specialty: Famous for its classic Persian architecture and intricate blue-tiled domes.
6. The Constitutional Revolution Museum
- Location: Located in the heart of Tabriz, this museum is dedicated to the Constitutional Revolution of Iran in the early 20th century.
- Facilities: The museum is housed in a traditional building, with exhibits that include photographs, documents, and artifacts related to the revolution.
- Specialty: Known for its important role in preserving Iran’s history, it provides valuable insight into the revolutionary period.
7. Babak Castle
- Location: Situated in the mountains near the town of Kalibar, around 80 kilometers from Tabriz.
- Facilities: The castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, with a hiking path leading up to it.
- Specialty: Famous for its historical significance as a symbol of resistance during the 9th century and its stunning views.
8. Tabriz Islamic Arts Museum
- Location: Located in the city center, this museum showcases Islamic art and history from different periods.
- Facilities: The museum features various exhibits of calligraphy, miniature paintings, and Persian carpets.
- Specialty: Known for its exceptional collection of Islamic art, including rare manuscripts and intricate artwork.
9. The Memorial of Azerbaijan Martyrs
- Location: Situated near the eastern side of Tabriz.
- Facilities: The memorial is a site dedicated to those who fought in the Iranian Azerbaijan region’s struggles.
- Specialty: Famous for its large, impressive monument and historical importance in Tabriz’s modern history.
10. Jameh Mosque of Tabriz
- Location: Situated in the historical center of Tabriz, this mosque is one of the oldest and most important mosques in Iran.
- Facilities: The mosque features beautiful tile work, intricate design, and is a fine example of Persian Islamic architecture.
- Specialty: Known for its historical significance and architectural beauty, especially its grand prayer hall and courtyard.
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.
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.
Exchange Shops in Tabriz
Important Note: Tabriz’s main exchange shops are generally located around commercial and historical areas, such as the Tabriz Grand Bazaar. As with any city, it is 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. Tabriz Grand Bazaar Exchange
- Location: Tabriz Grand Bazaar, Tabriz, 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, Tabriz, Iran
- Best for: Known for offering competitive rates and convenient access for tourists exploring the central areas of Tabriz.
3. Sarafi Shahrak-e-Moalem
- Location: Shahrak-e-Moalem, Tabriz, Iran
- Best for: Great for exchanging both major currencies and regional currencies with transparent and secure transactions.
4. Sarafi Melli
- Location: Valiasr Street, Tabriz, Iran
- Best for: A well-known exchange for both locals and tourists, offering reliable services and decent rates.
5. Parsian Exchange
- Location: Tabriz, Iran
- Best for: Offering good exchange rates for major world currencies, particularly for business transactions and travel needs.