Sari Travel Guide (Caspian Iran/Iran/Middle East/Asia)

Welcome to Sari, the capital city of Mazandaran province in Northern Iran! With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant local culture, Sari is a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through everything you need to know to plan your trip to Sari, including some of the top places to visit, fun activities to do, local cuisines to try, and more.

Introduction to Sari

Sari is located in the beautiful Caspian Sea region of Iran, and it is the largest and most populous city in the province of Mazandaran. It is considered an important center of culture, education, and art, and its strategic location makes it a great base for exploring the surrounding area.

Sari boasts a rich history, with some of the earliest recorded references to the city dating back to the 9th century CE. Over the centuries, Sari has been ruled by various empires and dynasties, including the Mongols, the Safavids, and the Qajars. As a result, the city is home to numerous historical and cultural sites that give visitors a glimpse into its fascinating past.

List of Places to Visit in Sari

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are interested in history and culture, there are plenty of museums and historical sites in Sari that you can explore. Some of the must-visit places include:

Museum of Anthropology: This museum showcases the traditional lifestyle and culture of the people of Mazandaran province, including their dress, food, music, and art.
Abbas Abad Garden: Built in the late 16th century, this beautiful garden is the largest of its kind in Mazandaran province and features stunning architecture and landscapes.
Sari Historical City: This is the old town area of Sari, with historical monuments and traditional architecture that dates back centuries.
Gonbad-e Qabus Tower: Located around 30 km from Sari, this tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was built in the early 11th century during the reign of the Ziyarid dynasty.

Natural Attractions of Sari: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sari is known for its natural beauty, with stunning landscapes, lush green forests, and beautiful beaches. Some of the top outdoor attractions that you must visit include:

Alborz Mountains: These mountains are located on the northern edge of Sari, and offer some of the best hiking trails and camping spots in Iran.
Lar Dam: This beautiful dam is located just outside of Sari and offers an idyllic spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Behshahr Beach: Located around an hour’s drive from Sari city center, this beautiful beach boasts crystal clear waters, white sand, and stunning sunsets.
Javaher Deh Wildlife Refuge: This wildlife refuge is home to several endangered species including the Persian leopard and the Caspian tiger.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sari

Sari is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with several hiking and biking trails that you can explore. Some of the most popular routes include:

Mount Damavand: This is the highest peak in Iran, and offers a challenging but rewarding hike for experienced hikers.
Lar National Park: This park is located just outside of Sari and is a great spot for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
Mount Sabalan: Located in the Alborz Mountains, this mountain is a popular spot for hiking, skiing, and snowboarding.

Best Things to Do in Sari: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking, biking, and exploring the historical and cultural sites, there are plenty of other fun activities that you can do in Sari. Some of the top experiences include:

Local Food Tour: Take a foodie tour of Sari and try some of the delicious local dishes including Kebab torsh and fish kabab.
Surfing Lessons: Head to Behshahr Beach and learn how to surf from the locals.
Traditional Music Concerts: Sari is famous for its traditional music, and there are plenty of concerts and performances that you can attend to experience this unique art form.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sari

If you are planning a week-long trip to Sari, here’s a sample itinerary that you can follow:

Day 1: Arrival in Sari and check-in at hotel. Spend the day exploring the city center and visiting the local museums.

Day 2: Visit the Sari Historical City and the Abbas Abad Garden.

Day 3: Go hiking in the Alborz Mountains and enjoy the stunning views.

Day 4: Take a tour of the Javaher Deh Wildlife Refuge and go wildlife watching.

Day 5: Explore the Lar National Park and have a picnic by the Lar Dam.

Day 6: Take a day trip to Behshahr Beach and enjoy some water sports.

Day 7: Visit the Gonbad-e Qabus Tower and experience the rich history of the area.

Food and Drink Scene of Sari

Iranian cuisine is famous for its rich flavors and unique combination of spices, and Sari is no exception. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

Kebab torsh: This is a traditional dish made with marinated beef or lamb, cooked with vinegar and pomegranate juice, served with rice.
Fish kabab: Fresh seafood grilled on skewers, seasoned with lemon and saffron, served with rice and salad.
Baghala ghatogh: A vegetarian dish made with fava beans, turmeric, garlic, and dill, typically served with rice.

Local Beverages

Doogh: This is a traditional yogurt-based drink, flavored with mint and spices.
Sharbat: A refreshing syrup made with fruits, flowers, and sugar, mixed with water and ice.
Tea: Iranian tea is famous for its strong flavor and is typically served with sugar cubes and fresh mint.

Where to Stay in Sari: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sari has plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the top options include:

Sari Espinas Hotel: This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of the city center and offers stunning views of the Alborz Mountains.
Saravan eco-lodge: This eco-friendly lodge is located in the Alborz Mountains and offers a unique experience with panoramic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Rostam Traditional Guesthouse: This traditional guesthouse is located in the Sari Historical City and features traditional Iranian architecture and design.

What to Buy in Sari: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sari is famous for its handicrafts and local products, and some of the best things to buy as souvenirs include:

Gelims and Kilims: These are traditional woven carpets and rugs that are famous for their intricate designs and patterns.
Handmade Pottery: Sari is famous for its handmade pottery, which makes for a beautiful and unique souvenir.
Local Spices and Herbs: Sari is known for its unique blend of spices and herbs, including saffron, cumin, and cinnamon, which make great gifts for foodies.

Local Culture and Customs of Sari

Iranian culture is rich and diverse, and it’s important to be respectful and follow local customs during your visit. Some of the things to keep in mind while visiting Sari include:

Dress modestly: Iran has a conservative dress code, and it’s recommended that visitors dress modestly and cover their heads and arms.
Remove your shoes before entering homes and mosques: It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering homes and mosques, so make sure to carry socks with you.
Respect religious customs: Iran is an Islamic country, and it’s important to show respect for Islamic customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Sari

The best time to visit Sari is between March and May or September and November, when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. The summer months can be hot and humid, while winter months can be snowy and cold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sari

Do:

Learn a few basic Persian phrases: Locals will appreciate your efforts to learn some basic phrases in Persian.
Try the local food: Iranian cuisine is delicious, and it’s a great way to experience the local culture.
Visit the historical and cultural sites: Sari has a rich history, and the local historical and cultural sites are worth exploring.

Don’t:

Take photos of people without their permission: It’s important to respect people’s privacy and ask for permission before taking their photos.
Drink alcohol in public: Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Iran, and drinking in public can result in fines or even imprisonment.
Be disrespectful to religious customs and traditions: It’s important to show respect for the local customs and traditions, even if they may be unfamiliar to you.

Safety and Health

Iran is generally a safe country to visit, and Sari is no exception. However, it’s important to take necessary precautions and follow basic safety measures while traveling. Some of the things to keep in mind include:

Safety in Sari

Keep your valuables safe: Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded areas, so it’s essential to keep your valuables safe.
Avoid large crowds and demonstrations: It’s best to avoid large crowds and demonstrations, as they can be unpredictable.
Be vigilant on the roads: Traffic in Iran can be chaotic, so it’s important to be careful when crossing the road or driving.

Health in Sari

Drink bottled water: It’s best to drink bottled water to avoid any potential health risks from tap water.
Carry basic medical supplies: Make sure to carry basic medical supplies, such as band-aids and pain killers, as these may not be readily available.
Consult your doctor before traveling: It’s recommended to consult your doctor regarding any necessary vaccinations or medications before traveling to Iran.

Getting to Sari: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sari is well-connected to other major cities in Iran, and it’s easy to travel to the city by air, bus, or car. Here are some of the main transportation options:

Airports Near Sari: The closest airport to Sari is the Ramsar International Airport, which serves domestic flights to major cities in Iran.
Bus Stations Near Sari: Sari has several bus stations that connect the city to other major cities in Iran.
Other Options: You can also hire a private car or taxi to travel to Sari from other cities in Iran.

How to Get Around in Sari

Sari is relatively small, and it’s easy to get around the city on foot or by using local public transportation. Taxis and car rentals are also available, but it’s important to negotiate the rates beforehand.

Where to Go Next from Sari: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to spare, there are several nearby destinations and excursions that you can explore from Sari. Here are some of the top options:

Ramsar: Located around 30 km from Sari, Ramsar is a popular seaside resort town with beautiful beaches, hot springs, and stunning natural landscapes.
Mount Damavand: This is the highest peak in Iran, and it’s a popular spot for hiking and camping.
Tehran: The capital city of Iran is located around 300 km from Sari, and it’s a great destination for history, culture, and shopping.

Conclusion

Sari is a hidden gem in Northern Iran that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Sari is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Iran. Whether you want to go hiking in the mountains, explore the local museums, or try some delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Sari. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to Sari, and we look forward to welcoming you to this beautiful city soon!

Sari Image Gallery

Location map of Sari

Sari Airport

The Tajan river flowing through Sari

Badab-e Surt