DISCOVER ANCIENT PERSIA

22-Day Grand Cultural Journey

Discover the timeless wonders of Iran on a 22-day journey through ancient cities, breathtaking landscapes, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From the vibrant streets of Tehran to the magnificent ruins of Persepolis, the deserts of Yazd, and the beauty of Isfahan, experience authentic Persian culture, history, and legendary hospitality.

What’s Included / Excluded

WHAT’S INCLUDED

✔️ Visa Authorization Code
✔️ Arrival and departure airport transfers
✔️ 21 nights’ accommodation in hotels according to the selected category (3-star, 4-star, or 5-star)
✔️ All transportation throughout Iran by a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
✔️ Services of an English-speaking Iranian tour guide throughout the journey
✔️ Meals: Daily breakfast and 2 dinners, including a Persian Night experience
✔️ Two bottles of mineral water per person per day

WHAT’S EXCLUDED

❌ International flights, taxes, and airline surcharges
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Visa authorization number processing fee
❌ Visa application and issuance fees
❌ Entrance fees to monuments and attractions
❌ Tips and personal expenses

Day 1: Arrival in Tehran

Salam! Welcome to Iran.
Upon arrival at Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA), you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel.
After some time to rest, if your arrival schedule allows, begin your Iranian adventure with a panoramic introduction to Tehran, including a visit to the iconic Azadi Tower.
In the evening, enjoy your first traditional Persian dinner with your guide and get your first taste of Iranian hospitality.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Dinner

✔️ Highlights:
* Azadi Tower
* Tehran panoramic city view
* Welcome Persian dinner

✔️Special information:
If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent know.

Day 2: Discover Tehran

After breakfast, begin exploring the vibrant capital of Iran.
Visit the National Museum of Iran to discover the country’s rich history, the historic National Garden Gate, and the magnificent Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Continue your journey through the lively Grand Bazaar, where centuries-old traditions, local crafts, and everyday life come together.
In the afternoon, explore northern Tehran with a visit to the elegant Saadabad Palace Complex and the colorful Tajrish Bazaar.
End the day in Darband, a popular mountain area filled with cafés and traditional restaurants, where locals enjoy their evenings.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️ Highlights:
* National Museum of Iran
* National Garden Gate
* Golestan Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* Saadabad Palace Complex
* Tajrish Bazaar
* Darband

Day 3: Tehran – Qazvin – Zanjan

Today, begin your journey northwest toward Zanjan.
On the way, stop in Qazvin, one of Iran’s historic cities and the former capital of the Safavid dynasty. Visit the impressive Jameh Mosque and the beautiful Saad al-Saltaneh Caravanserai, a masterpiece of Persian architecture.
Continue to Zanjan and visit Soltaniyeh Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest achievements of Persian architecture. Built in the Ilkhanid era, it remains the largest brick dome in Iran and one of the largest in the world.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Qazvin Jameh Mosque
* Saad al-Saltaneh Caravanserai
* Soltaniyeh Dome (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

✔️Travel Information:
Distance: approximately 350 km
Driving time: around 4 hours

Day 4: Zanjan – Takht-e Soleyman

Today, travel back in time to one of Iran’s most remarkable ancient sites.
Visit Takht-e Soleyman, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important religious and cultural centers of pre-Islamic Iran.
Once the spiritual heart of the Sasanian Empire, this extraordinary archaeological complex includes ancient temples, palaces, and a mysterious natural lake surrounded by legends.
After exploring Takht-e Soleyman, return to Zanjan and visit the Rakhtshooy Khaneh Museum, a unique historical building that reflects the daily life of local women in the past, followed by a walk through the traditional bazaar.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️ Highlights:
* Takht-e Soleyman (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* Rakhtshooy Khaneh Museum
* Zanjan Traditional Bazaar

✔️Travel Information:
Distance: approximately 300 km
Driving time: around 5 hours

Day 5: Zanjan – Tabriz

Today, continue your journey to Tabriz, a historic city where culture, nature, and commerce meet.
On the way, admire the colorful landscapes of the Aladaghlar Mountains, one of Iran’s most unique natural attractions.
Upon arrival in Tabriz, explore the magnificent Tabriz Grand Bazaar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest covered bazaars in the world.
Later, relax at El Goli Park, one of the city’s most beloved recreational areas.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Aladaghlar Mountains
* Tabriz Grand Bazaar (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* El Goli Park

✔️Travel Information:
Distance: approximately 300 km
Driving time: around 4 hours

Day 6: Explore Tabriz & Kandovan Village

After breakfast, discover the cultural treasures of Tabriz.
Visit the Blue Mosque, a masterpiece of Persian Islamic architecture known for its stunning turquoise tiles, and see the historic Alishah Citadel.
Later, travel to Kandovan, one of Iran’s most fascinating villages. Carved into volcanic rocks more than 800 years ago, this unique village offers a rare combination of history, architecture, and natural beauty.
Return to Tabriz in the evening.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Blue Mosque
* Alishah Citadel
* Kandovan Rock Village

✔️Travel Information:
Distance: approximately 65 km
Driving time: around 2 hours

Day 7: Tabriz – Hamedan

After breakfast, leave Tabriz and travel south to Hamedan, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Along the way, visit the spectacular Ali Sadr Cave, one of the world’s largest water caves. Explore its crystal-clear underground lake by boat while admiring magnificent rock formations shaped over millions of years.
Continue to Hamedan and enjoy a relaxing evening.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Ali Sadr Water Cave

✔️Travel Information:
Distance: approximately 500 km
Driving time: around 6 hours

Day 8: Discover Hamedan

Today, discover Hamedan, the ancient city of Ecbatana and one of Iran’s oldest capitals.
Visit the Tomb of Avicenna, one of the greatest physicians and philosophers in history, followed by the Tomb of Baba Taher, one of Iran’s most beloved poets.
Continue to the Tomb of Esther and Mordecai, one of Judaism’s most important pilgrimage sites in Iran.
Later, explore Hegmataneh Archaeological Site, the remains of the ancient Median capital, before visiting Ganjnameh to see the famous Achaemenid inscriptions surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Hegmataneh Archaeological Site
* Tomb of Avicenna
* Tomb of Baba Taher
* Tomb of Esther and Mordecai
* Ganjnameh

Day 9: Hamedan – Kermanshah

Today, travel to Kermanshah, a region rich in ancient history.
On the way, visit Bisotun, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the famous inscription of Darius the Great carved into the mountainside over 2,500 years ago.
Continue to Taq-e Bostan, where magnificent Sasanian rock reliefs beside a peaceful lake illustrate the glory of ancient Persia.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Bisotun (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* Taq-e Bostan

✔️Travel Information:
Distance: approximately 200 km
Driving time: around 3 hours

Day 10: Kermanshah – Ahwaz

Leave Kermanshah behind and journey toward Khuzestan Province, the cradle of some of the world’s oldest civilizations.
Enjoy spectacular views of the Zagros Mountains before arriving in ancient Susa, once the capital of the Elamite and Achaemenid Empires.
Explore the archaeological remains of Susa, including the ancient city, Apadana Palace, and the historic citadel before continuing to Ahwaz.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Ancient City of Susa (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* Apadana Palace
* Susa Citadel

✔️Travel Information:
Distance: approximately 550 km
Driving time: around 7 hours

Day 11: Chogha Zanbil & Shushtar

Today is dedicated to two of Iran’s most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Begin with Chogha Zanbil, one of the world’s oldest surviving ziggurats, built around 1250 BC by the Elamite civilization.
Continue to the historic city of Shushtar to explore its extraordinary Hydraulic System—a masterpiece of ancient engineering featuring canals, bridges, dams, tunnels, and watermills that have functioned for nearly 1,700 years.
Return to Ahwaz in the evening.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Chogha Zanbil (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

✔️Travel Information:
Driving time: around 4 hours

Day 12: Ahwaz – Bishapur – Shiraz

After breakfast, travel toward Shiraz through the beautiful Zagros Mountains.
Along the way, pass Iran’s vast oil fields before stopping at Bishapur, one of the most important cities of the Sasanian Empire.
Explore the impressive archaeological remains, including royal palaces, the Temple of Anahita, and remarkable rock reliefs that reflect the power and artistry of ancient Persia.
Continue your scenic drive to Shiraz, the city of poetry, gardens, and culture.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️ Highlights:
* Bishapur Archaeological Site (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* Temple of Anahita
* Sasanian Rock Reliefs

✔️Travel Information:
Distance: approximately 550 km
Driving time: around 7 hours

Day 13: Discover Shiraz

Today, explore Shiraz, the cultural heart of Iran and the city of poetry, gardens, and timeless elegance.
Begin your day at the breathtaking Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, famously known as the Pink Mosque, where colorful stained-glass windows create a magical display of light.
Continue to the Tomb of Hafez, Iran’s most celebrated poet, before visiting the beautiful Ali Ibn Hamzeh Shrine, renowned for its dazzling mirrorwork.
Visit the historic Gate of Quran and stroll through the peaceful Eram Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Later, discover the Vakil Complex, including its impressive citadel, traditional bazaar, mosque, and bathhouse.
In the evening, enjoy a home-cooked Shirazi dinner with a local family and experience the warmth of authentic Iranian hospitality.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast
Dinner

✔️Highlights:
* Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque)
* Tomb of Hafez
* Ali Ibn Hamzeh Shrine
* Gate of Quran
* Eram Garden (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* Vakil Complex

Day 14: Persepolis & Pasargadae

Today, step into the glory of the Persian Empire.
Travel to Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire and one of the world’s greatest archaeological sites. Walk among magnificent palaces, monumental gateways, and extraordinary stone carvings that have stood for more than 2,500 years.
Continue to Naqsh-e Rostam, where the royal tombs of the Achaemenid kings are carved high into the cliffs.
Finally, visit Pasargadae, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and the resting place of Cyrus the Great, founder of the Persian Empire.
Return to Shiraz in the evening.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Persepolis (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* Naqsh-e Rostam
* Pasargadae (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Day 15: Shiraz – Kerman

Leave Shiraz and journey toward Kerman, Iran’s largest province.
Along the way, stop at the beautiful Maharloo Lake, famous for its seasonal pink waters, before visiting the impressive Palace of Sasanian era , one of the finest surviving monuments of the Sasanian Empire.
Continue through scenic mountain landscapes before arriving in Kerman.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Maharloo Lake
* Sassanid palace

✔️Travel Information:
Distance: approximately 600 km
Driving time: around 7 hours

Day 16: Kerman & Shahdad Desert

Today, discover the highlights of Kerman Province.
Visit the impressive Rayen Citadel, one of Iran’s best-preserved adobe fortresses, before continuing to the beautiful Shazdeh Mahan Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Persia’s finest historic gardens.
Visit the Shrine of Shah Nematollah Vali, one of Iran’s most influential Sufi masters.
In the afternoon, experience the spectacular Shahdad Desert and admire the famous Kaluts, dramatic natural rock formations shaped by wind over thousands of years. Enjoy one of the most unforgettable sunsets in Iran.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Rayen Citadel
* Shazdeh Mahan Garden (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* Shrine of Shah Nematollah Vali
* Shahdad Desert & Kaluts

✔️Travel Information:
Driving time: around 5 hours

Day 17: Kerman – Yazd

After breakfast, visit the magnificent Ganjali Khan Complex, including its beautifully restored historic bathhouse.
Then travel toward Yazd, stopping at the remarkable Zein-o-Din Caravanserai, one of the finest surviving caravanserais along the ancient Silk Road.
Continue to Yazd, one of the world’s oldest desert cities.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Ganjali Khan Complex
* Ganjali Khan Bathhouse
* Zein-o-Din Caravanserai

✔️Travel Information:
Distance: approximately 370 km
Driving time: around 4 hours

Day 18: Discover Yazd

Spend the day exploring Yazd, Iran’s enchanting desert city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Begin with the Tower of Silence and the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, where an eternal flame has been burning for over 1,500 years.
Continue to Dolat Abad Garden, home to the world’s tallest windcatcher, an outstanding example of Persian desert architecture.
In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Jameh Mosque before wandering through Yazd’s maze of narrow adobe alleys, discovering traditional courtyard houses, windcatchers, and ancient qanat water systems.
End the day by watching the sunset from one of the rooftops overlooking the historic old city.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Tower of Silence
* Zoroastrian Fire Temple
* Dolat Abad Garden (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* Jameh Mosque
* Historic City of Yazd (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Day 19: Yazd – Meybod – Isfahan

Leave the desert city of Yazd behind and journey toward the magnificent city of Isfahan.
On the way, stop in the historic town of Meybod, where centuries of desert architecture still shape everyday life. Visit its impressive Pigeon Tower, traditional Ice House, and stroll through the historic caravanserai that once welcomed merchants traveling along the Silk Road.
Arrive in Isfahan in the evening and enjoy your first glimpse of the beautifully illuminated Naqsh-e Jahan Square.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Meybod Old Town
* Pigeon Tower
* Ice House
* Shah Abbasi Caravanserai
* Naqsh-e Jahan Square (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

✔️Travel Information:
Distance: approximately 320 km
Driving time: around 5 hours

Day 20: Discover Isfahan

Today, discover why Isfahan is often called “Half the World.”
Begin at the magnificent Naqsh-e Jahan Square, one of the largest and most beautiful public squares in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore its architectural masterpieces, including the Shah Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Ali Qapu Palace, and Chehel Sotoun Palace.
Spend time browsing the traditional bazaar, famous for Persian carpets, miniature paintings, enamelware, and handcrafted souvenirs.
Later, visit the Armenian Quarter of Jolfa and admire the beautiful Vank Cathedral before ending the day at the historic Si-o-se Pol and Khaju Bridge, where locals gather to sing beneath the arches.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Naqsh-e Jahan Square (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* Shah Mosque
* Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque
* Ali Qapu Palace
* Chehel Sotoun Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* Vank Cathedral
* Si-o-se Pol Bridge
* Khaju Bridge

Day 21: Isfahan – Abyaneh – Kashan

This morning, travel toward the charming oasis city of Kashan.
On the way, stop in the picturesque village of Abyaneh, one of Iran’s oldest inhabited villages, famous for its distinctive red-mud houses, traditional clothing, and peaceful atmosphere.
Continue to Kashan and visit the beautiful Fin Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Persian garden design.
Explore the historic Agha Bozorg Mosque before wandering through Kashan’s traditional bazaar, where you can browse local handicrafts, spices, and traditional sweets.

✔️Accommodation:
3*, 4*, or 5* hotel according to your preference.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️Highlights:
* Abyaneh Village
* Fin Garden (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
* Agha Bozorg Mosque
* Kashan Traditional Bazaar

✔️Travel Information:
Distance: approximately 210 km
Driving time: around 4 hours

Day 22: Kashan – Tehran IKA Airport

Your unforgettable journey through Ancient Persia comes to an end today.
Before leaving Kashan, visit its elegant historic houses, masterpieces of traditional Persian residential architecture.
If your flight schedule allows, you may also explore the fascinating underground city of Noshabad, an extraordinary network of tunnels built centuries ago beneath the desert.
Afterward, transfer to Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) for your departure flight, taking home unforgettable memories of Iran’s remarkable history, breathtaking landscapes, and legendary hospitality.

✔️Meals:
Breakfast

✔️ Highlights:
* Tabatabaei or Borojerdi historic house

✔️Optional Visit:
* Noshabad Underground City

✔️Travel Information:
Distance: approximately 230 km
Driving time: around 3 hours

YOUR IRAN ADVENTURE STARTS HERE!

✔️Ready to Discover Iran?
Discover the wonders of Ancient Persia on an unforgettable 22-day journey through Iran’s most remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences.
Travel with Melody Travel and experience the true spirit of Iran through its history, hospitality, and timeless beauty.