Things to Do in Tehran

About Tehran

Nestled against the dramatic slopes of the Alborz Mountains, Tehran pulses with the energy of a metropolis where ancient Persian heritage collides with bold modernity. This sprawling capital defies easy categorization—a city of 9 million stories where snow-capped peaks tower over buzzing bazaars, contemporary art galleries, and tree-lined boulevards that reveal layers of history at every turn. Tehran doesn't wait to be discovered; it demands your attention and rewards those willing to look beyond first impressions.

Travel Tips

• Metro Navigation: Download the Tehran Metro map and purchase a rechargeable metro card at any station - it's the fastest and cheapest way to navigate the city, especially during rush hours when traffic can add hours to your journey.

• Currency Exchange: Bring euros or US dollars in cash to exchange at official exchange offices (sarrafi) rather than relying on credit cards, as international cards don't work in Iran due to sanctions, and exchange rates at hotels are significantly worse.

• Dress Code Compliance: Women must wear a headscarf (roosari) and loose-fitting clothing covering arms and legs in all public spaces, while men should avoid shorts; pack accordingly as this is strictly enforced and non-compliance can result in warnings or fines.

• Friday Timing: Plan around Fridays when most government offices, banks, and many shops are closed for the weekly day of rest, though restaurants, museums, and the Grand Bazaar typically remain open with reduced hours.

When to Visit

When to Visit Tehran, Iran:

The optimal time to visit Tehran is during spring (April-May) when temperatures range from 15-25°C and the city's parks burst with blossoms, particularly during Nowruz (Persian New Year, around March 21st) though expect massive domestic crowds and higher prices during this two-week holiday period. Fall (late September-November) offers similarly pleasant 18-24°C weather with clear skies perfect for viewing the Alborz Mountains and fewer tourists, though you'll miss the spring greenery. Summer (June-August) brings intense heat reaching 35-40°C with harsh sun and air pollution trapped by geographic conditions, making it unbearable for sightseeing despite being low season with cheaper accommodation. Winter (December-February) sees temperatures drop to -5 to 8°C with occasional heavy snowfall that transforms nearby Tochal and Dizin into ski destinations, but Tehran itself becomes gray and smoggy with poor air quality, particularly during thermal inversions that trap pollution in the valley—though budget travelers will find rock-bottom hotel rates and empty attractions during this period.