Tehran, the capital of Iran, has transformed from a small city to a bustling metropolis. The discovery of oil wells in the country played a crucial role in the city's development, making it the most populous and developed city. Additionally, the Mongol invasion of the neighboring settlement, Rey, further accelerated the urbanization process of Tehran. Forced migrations from Rey to Tehran resulted in a rapid increase in population and triggered a growth and development phase for the city. Situated on the southern slope of the Elburz Mountains, Tehran is located far from the sea or other water sources, resulting in significant air pollution as a major challenge for the city. Despite this environmental concern, Tehran has become a significant industrial, economic, and cultural hub for Iran.
Tehran experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. The optimal times for a visit are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and the city's gardens and parks are especially beautiful.
Imam Khomeini International Airport and Mehrabad Airport serve Tehran, connecting it to cities around the globe. The city is also a major hub for railways and has an extensive road network connecting it to other parts of Iran.
Tehran's cuisine offers a mix of traditional Persian dishes like Kebabs, Fesenjan (walnut and pomegranate stew), and Tahchin (saffron rice cake). Tea houses and street vendors serve local snacks and sweets, such as Saffron Ice Cream and Persian nougat.
Explore the lavish Golestan Palace, a masterpiece of Qajar era architecture. Wander through the bustling Grand Bazaar, a hub for traditional goods and crafts. Visit the modern Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art and try Persian specialties like kebabs and saffron ice cream in Darband.
Tehran has a burgeoning underground nightlife scene despite restrictions, with private parties and gatherings offering music and dance. More publicly, cafes and restaurants, particularly in the northern parts of the city, offer a place to enjoy local cuisine and tea late into the night.
Tehran’s Grand Bazaar is a sprawling market where you can find everything from Persian rugs to spices and jewelry. Modern shopping can be found in malls like the Tehran Mall. Don’t leave without purchasing some saffron or Persian pistachios.
March: Persian New Year (Nowruz) (national celebrations marking the Persian New Year with family gatherings, public festivities, and traditional events)
October: Tehran International Book Fair (one of the biggest publishing events in Asia)
11 February: Revolution Day
21 March: Nowruz (Persian New Year)
4 April: Sizdah Bedar (Nature Day)
29 October: Cyrus the Great Day
Eid al-Fitr (varies)
Eid al-Adha (varies)
Ashura (varies)
Eid-e-Milad un-Nabi (varies)
Persian (Farsi) is the official language. Limited English is spoken outside tourist sectors.
Strict dress codes apply, especially for women who are expected to wear headscarves and modest clothing.
The city has a semi-arid climate, with extreme temperature variations between summer and winter.
Bargaining is part of shopping culture, particularly in bazaars.
Tehran's public transport includes buses and a rapidly expanding metro system that covers most of the city.
Taxis are plentiful, with the option to hire private or use shared taxis for a cheaper alternative.
For navigating the more congested parts of the city, motorcycles and motorbike taxis are a fast, though riskier, option.