Fars Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, hiking and biking routes, local cuisine, and culture in Fars, Iran. Plan your itineraries, know safety precautions and transportation options to explore the beauty of Fars.


Introduction to Fars

Fars, a province located in the central region of Iran, is a perfect place to experience the combination of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Home to several ancient ruins, glorious Persian gardens, and picturesque natural scenery, Fars is a must-visit destination in the Middle East.

List of Places to Visit in Fars

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pasargadae - The earliest capital of the Achaemenid Empire, home of the tomb of Cyrus the Great.
  • Persepolis - The ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Naqsh-e Rustam - The ancient necropolis of the Achaemenid dynasty.
  • Vakil Mosque and Bazaar - A traditional market and mosque, offering a glimpse into the traditional Iranian architecture and culture.
  • Eram Garden - A Persian garden, filled with trees and flowers, and known for its tranquil ambiance.
  • Qavam House - A historic house and museum, famous for its Persian architecture.

Natural Attractions of Fars: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shiraz Pink Lake - A unique natural lake that changes color throughout the day.
  • Ghalat Village - A small village surrounded by the green mountains and waterfalls.
  • Maharloo Lake - A saltwater lake located in southeast Shiraz, famous for its flamingos.
  • Arjan and Parishan Lake - Two large freshwater lakes, popular for fishing and birdwatching.
  • Zagros Mountains - A range of mountains ideal for hiking, camping, and outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fars

  • Shiraz to Bavanat - A multi-day hiking trip through the Zagros Mountains.
  • Tang-e-Tizab – A day trek through a canyon in the heart of the Zagros Mountains.
  • Gerash-Beyramkandi Pass – A challenging two-day trek to the heart of the Zagros Mountains.
  • Darab-Bishapur – A 3-day trek that starts at Darab and ends at Bishapur, offering scenic mountain views on the way.

Best Things to Do in Fars: Activities and Tours

  • Join a guided tour of Persepolis and Pasargadae to learn about the ancient history of Iran.
  • Visit the local bazaars in Shiraz to experience traditional Iranian shopping.
  • Attend a Persian music concert, held in several historical places in Fars.
  • Explore the traditional villages near Shiraz, like Qalat or Sarvestan, for an authentic Iranian experience.
  • Take a day trip to the nearby cities of Isfahan or Yazd to broaden your Iranian travel experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fars

Day Activity
1 Arrival in Shiraz, visit Eram Garden, Qavam House
2 Explore Persepolis and Naqsh-e Rustam
3 Trek/camping in the Zagros Mountains
4 Visit Vakil Mosque and Bazaar, Hafez Tomb
5 Visit Pasargadae, drive to Bishapur
6 Visit Shiraz Pink Lake, Ghalat Village
7 Departure from Shiraz

Food and Drink Scene of Fars

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fesenjan - A traditional Iranian food made of chicken, pomegranate juice, and walnuts.
  • Kashk-e-Bademjan - A creamy eggplant dip, flavored with dried mint.
  • Kebab Koobideh - A skewer of spiced ground lamb or beef, grilled over an open fire.

Local Beverages

  • Doogh - A refreshing yogurt drink, mixed with salt and water.
  • Shirazi Sharbat - A sweet drink made from rose petals, sugar, and water.
  • Iranian Black Tea - A strong, hot tea served with or without sugar, and usually with a slice of lemon.

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

  • Shiraz Grand Hotel - A luxurious 5-star hotel, located in the city center.
  • Niayesh Traditional Hotel - A traditional hotel, located in the old city center of Shiraz.
  • Parsian Esteghlal Hotel - A budget-friendly hotel, offering spacious rooms and a central location.

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

  • Persian Carpets - Handwoven carpets that are works of art and represent the Iranian culture.
  • Pistachios - Iran is known for being the world’s largest producer of pistachios.
  • Saffron - Iran produces more than 90% of the world’s saffron, and is famous for its high-quality saffron products.

Local Culture and Customs of Fars

  • Iranians are hospitable and welcoming to visitors, and it is customary for guests to bring a small gift.
  • Modest dressing is required, especially for women. Women are required to wear a headscarf in public.
  • Alcohol is banned in Iran and drinking it in public can cause trouble with the law.

Best Time to Visit Fars

The best time to visit Fars is during spring or fall, which are the shoulder seasons, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fars

Do:

  • Learn some Persian phrases to communicate with locals.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people without asking them for permission.
  • Smoke in public places or during Ramadan.
  • Criticize the local government or religion.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fars

Fars is generally safe and welcomes tourists warmly. Petty crime can occur in crowded urban areas, so be cautious with your valuables and avoid walking alone late at night.

Health in Fars

Iran offers excellent medical facilities, particularly in urban areas. Make sure to bring any necessary prescriptions and get travel insurance before visiting Fars.

Getting to Fars: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fars

  • Shiraz International Airport
  • Kerman International Airport

Bus Stations Near Fars

  • Shiraz Bus Station
  • Kerman Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train - Train routes connect Shiraz with major Iranian cities such as Tehran, Isfahan, and Yazd.
  • Taxi - Taxis in Iran are reasonably priced, and it is advisable to negotiate the price beforehand.

How to Get Around in Fars

To explore Fars, you can use taxis, public buses, and shared taxis (locally known as savaris). You can also hire a driver to take you to all the attractions, and negotiate the price with them.

Where to Go Next from Fars: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Isfahan - Known for its rich Persian culture and stunning architecture.
  • Yazd - A desert city that features unique Iranian architecture.
  • Lut Desert - A vast desert that is great for camping and stargazing.

Conclusion

Fars is a province that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or culture, Fars has it all. Its unique local cuisine, hospitality, and stunning landscapes are sure to make it a memorable destination for you. Plan your trip and get ready to explore the beauty of Fars.

Persepolis Persepolis Naghshe Rostam Naghshe Rostam


    Persepolis
    Shiraz