Tehran Travel Guide
A bustling and smog-filled metropolis of around 15 million people in its metropolitan area, Tehran might seem an unlikely holiday destination at first. Howver, travellers soon discover that its rich history and increasingly cosmopolitan mindset make it an undiscovered gem in the Middle East.
Tehran can be broadly divided into two parts. The northern districts are more modern and prosperous, boasting large shopping malls, international restaurants, and luxury hotels. In contrast, the southern areas are generally more traditional and affordable, home to vast bazaars, historic buildings, and vibrant street food stalls serving delights such as falafel.
The city offers some of the best museums in the Middle East, with as many as 50 to explore. The most famous is undoubtedly Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The dazzling Crown Jewels of Iran, housed in the Central Bank, are a must-see exhibit. Other notable museums include the Carpet Museum of Iran, the Time Museum, and the Museum of the Islamic Era.
Tehran can be overwhelming, so short trips often prove most rewarding. When the city's hustle becomes too much, travellers can escape to vastly different surroundings: the Caspian Sea resort town of Ramsar to the north, the ski slopes of Dizin nearby, or even further afield to desert towns such as Na'in.
Views on safety in Tehran vary. Many residents and experienced travellers find it largely safe, but government travel advisories from the US State Department and the British Foreign Office recommend caution. Anyone planning to visit should stay well-informed with the latest official advice and media updates.