Shiraz Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Shiraz with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, places to stay, things to eat, safety tips etc.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Shiraz

Shiraz, located in the Fars province of central Iran, is considered to be the cultural capital of the country. The city is renowned for its exquisite gardens, fascinating history, and ancient monuments that are a testament to its glorious past. In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Shiraz also offers outdoor adventures, delicious food and drinks, and warm hospitality that make it a must-visit destination. In this travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to Shiraz, from the best places to visit to the local customs and traditions.

List of Places to Visit in Shiraz

Shiraz has a plethora of attractions that cater to travelers of all interests. Here are some of the top places to visit in Shiraz:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Persepolis: Located approximately 60 km northeast of Shiraz, Persepolis is one of the most magnificent examples of ancient architecture in the world. The ruins of the palace complex, built by the Achaemenid Empire in 550 BCE, are adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions and attract thousands of visitors every year.

  • Nasir al-Mulk Mosque: Known as the Pink Mosque, the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture that features stained glass windows that cast a kaleidoscope of colors on the floor, making it a popular photo spot for visitors.

  • Eram Garden: This UNESCO-listed Persian garden is an excellent example of the country’s art of landscape design. It features a beautiful qanat system and serves as a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Natural Attractions of Shiraz: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Zandieh Complex: This 18th-century citadel was built by the Zand dynasty and is a popular destination for history buffs. It also serves as a center for traditional Persian art and music.

  • Hafez Tomb: The resting place of one of Iran’s most celebrated poets, Hafez Tomb is the perfect place to soak up some of Shiraz’s literary and cultural heritage.

  • Shah Cheragh: This magnificent mosque is home to the tombs of two brothers who were martyred on this site in the 9th century.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shiraz

Shiraz offers excellent opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. One of the best biking routes is the famous Shiraz-Isfahan Cycling Path, which takes you through breathtaking landscapes and Persian fairy tales. The hiking trails of Daqo Mountains are also incredibly popular among adventurers.

Best Things to Do in Shiraz: Activities and Tours

Shiraz has a wide range of activities and tours that cater to travelers of all interests. Some of the best things to do in Shiraz include:

  • Visit the Bazaar-e Vakil: This bustling market is perfect for bargain hunters and shoppers who want to explore the local customs and traditions.

  • Take a Persian Calligraphy Workshop: Learn the art of Persian calligraphy in a workshop led by local artists and calligraphers.

  • Delve into Persian Cuisine: Take part in a cooking class that introduces you to the flavors and aromas of Persian cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shiraz

Day 1: Visit Persepolis and Necropolis Day 2: Explore the Vakil Bazaar and the Karim Khan Citadel Day 3: Admire the beauty of Nasir-al-Mulk Mosque and Eram Garden Day 4: Enjoy a day trip to Bavanat Rural Area Day 5: Take a Persian Calligraphy Workshop and stroll in Jahan Nama Garden Day 6: Visit Hafez Tomb, Saadi Mausoleum and Shah Cheragh Day 7: Explore the Daqo Mountain range and enjoy a hiking trail

Food and Drink Scene of Shiraz

Shiraz is renowned for its delicious food and drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fesenjan: A stew made with pomegranate, walnuts, and chicken that is served with steamed rice.

  • Kebab Koobideh: A spiced meat kebab usually made with minced beef, lamb, or chicken.

  • Tahchin: A savory rice cake made with saffron, yogurt, and chicken.

Local Beverages

  • Doogh: A yogurt-based drink that is usually flavored with mint and salt.

  • Sharbat: A refreshing drink made with fruits, syrups, and water.

  • Saffron Tea: A traditional tea that is brewed with saffron and honey.

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

Shiraz has a wide range of accommodation options that cater to every budget and preference. Some of the best places to stay in Shiraz include:

  • Zandiyeh Hotel: A five-star hotel located in the heart of the city that offers luxury and comfort.

  • Niayesh Boutique Hotel: A boutique hotel that boasts traditional Persian architecture and decor.

  • Koobrax Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel that provides comfortable and clean rooms.

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

Shiraz has a vibrant market scene, offering travelers the chance to shop for authentic souvenirs and local products. Some of the best things to buy in Shiraz include:

  • Persian Carpets: Shiraz is home to many skilled carpet weavers who create beautiful Persian rugs and carpets.

  • Silverware: Silverware is a traditional Persian craft, and Shiraz is an excellent place to buy finely crafted silver products.

  • Qalyan: A traditional Persian water pipe that comes in a variety of designs and sizes.

Local Culture and Customs of Shiraz

Shiraz has deep cultural roots that are reflected in its architecture, literature, and art. The locals are warm and hospitable, and it’s essential to respect their customs and traditions. Some of the most important customs and traditions of Shiraz include:

  • Mehrieh: In Shiraz, it is customary for men to provide their fiancées with a gift of gold or money, which is called “mehrieh.”

  • Nowruz: Nowruz, or Persian New Year, is celebrated in Shiraz with great pomp and show. The festival usually takes place in March and lasts for 13 days.

Best Time to Visit Shiraz

The best time to visit Shiraz is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summers can be scorching, with temperatures soaring up to 40 degrees Celsius, while the winters can be chilly, with occasional snowfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shiraz

Do:

  • Dress Respectfully: Iran is an Islamic country, and it’s essential to dress conservatively, especially for women.

  • Politeness: The locals of Shiraz are known for their hospitality and politeness, and it’s important to reciprocate and be respectful.

  • Try Learning Some Basic Persian: The locals appreciate it when travelers make an effort to learn some basic Persian words.

Don’t:

  • Do Not Drink Alcohol in Public: Alcohol is prohibited in Iran, and it’s essential to respect their laws and customs.

  • Do Not Smoke in Public: Smoking is prohibited in public places in Iran.

  • Do Not Insult the Country or Its Customs and Traditions: It’s important to be respectful and mindful of the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shiraz

Shiraz is a reasonably safe destination for travelers, but it’s always essential to take precautions. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables safe.

  • Avoid political demonstrations and gatherings.

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Health in Shiraz

Travelers should take precautions to avoid getting sick or injured. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Drink purified water and avoid tap water.

  • Avoid street food and eat at reputable restaurants.

  • Pack any necessary medications and bring copies of prescriptions.

Getting to Shiraz: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several ways to reach Shiraz, including air, rail, and road. Here are some transportation options and logistics to keep in mind:

  • Air: Shiraz International Airport serves many major cities in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

  • Train: The Iranian railway system connects Shiraz to other major cities in the country, including Tehran, Mashhad and Isfahan.

  • Road: The Iranian bus system is a popular and affordable way to travel between cities.

How to Get Around in Shiraz

There are several ways to get around Shiraz, but the most convenient mode of transportation is by taxi. Taxis are relatively cheap and can be found everywhere in the city. You can also rent a car or take a bus, but it’s essential to be cautious of the traffic and driving conditions.

Where to Go Next from Shiraz: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Shiraz is an excellent base from which to explore other destinations in Iran. Some of the nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Isfahan: This beautiful city is home to some of the most magnificent historical monuments in Iran.

  • Yazd: A desert city with unique architecture and a rich cultural heritage.

  • Kerman: This city is famous for its Persian carpets and traditional bazaar.

Conclusion

Shiraz is an enchanting destination that has something to offer to every traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, art, culture, outdoors, or gastronomy, Shiraz has it all. We hope this travel guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Shiraz and provided you with all the information you need to make your visit an unforgettable experience.

Hafez Tomb Hafez Tomb Shiraz Train Station Shiraz Train Station Interior of Nasir al-Mulk Mosque Interior of Nasir al-Mulk Mosque Saadi Thomb Saadi Thomb Afif Abad Gardens Afif Abad Gardens Eram Garden Eram Garden Unmixed Shirazi salad, forming an Iranian flag Unmixed Shirazi salad, forming an Iranian flag Persepolis (Takht-e-Jamshid) Persepolis (Takht-e-Jamshid)