Isfahan, located in central Iran, is known for its beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine, and friendly people. One of the city’s most famous landmarks is Naqsh-e Jahan Square, also known as Imam Square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest city squares in the world. If you’re planning a trip to Isfahan, be sure to add Naqsh-e Jahan to your itinerary.
Outdoor activities
Isfahan is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. From hiking and cycling to horse riding and bird watching, there's something for everyone. In this section, we'll highlight two of the best outdoor activities to try during your visit to Isfahan.
Explore the Zayandeh River
The Zayandeh River is a major river that runs through Isfahan and provides a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities. One of the most popular things to do is to rent a paddleboat or rowboat and explore the river at your own pace. You can also take a guided tour on a traditional Iranian boat called a gondola. Along the river, you’ll find many parks and gardens, including the popular Khaju Bridge, which is a great spot for picnicking.
Visit the Varzaneh Desert
Just a short drive from Isfahan is the Varzaneh Desert, which is a beautiful and peaceful escape from the city. You can take a guided tour or rent a car and explore the desert on your own. Activities in the desert include sandboarding, camel riding, and stargazing. Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the desert can be hot and dry.
Must See Places
Isfahan is full of historic and cultural attractions that are not to be missed. From stunning mosques and palaces to traditional bazaars and gardens, there's no shortage of must-visit places in Isfahan. In this section, we'll share our top two recommendations for places to visit during your stay.
Imam Mosque
The Imam Mosque, also known as the Shah Mosque, is one of the most beautiful mosques in the world and a must-see attraction in Isfahan. The mosque was built in the early 17th century and features stunning tile work, calligraphy, and architecture. Visitors can explore the mosque’s many courtyards, halls, and prayer rooms. Make sure to visit at different times of day to see how the light changes the colors and patterns of the tiles.
Ali Qapu Palace
The Ali Qapu Palace is a 17th-century palace located on the western side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square. The palace was built by Shah Abbas I and served as the main palace for the Safavid dynasty. Visitors can climb the stairs to the top of the palace for a beautiful view of the square and the city. Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes, intricate tile work, and beautiful calligraphy.
Unusual Tip
If you're looking for a unique experience in Isfahan, we've got an unusual tip for you. This tip is not your typical tourist activity, but it's sure to leave a lasting impression on you. In this section, we'll share our unusual tip for something to do in Isfahan.
Visit the Armenian Quarter
While many visitors stick to the main attractions in Isfahan, the city has a rich history and many hidden gems to explore. One such gem is the Armenian Quarter, located on the western side of the city. The quarter is home to the beautiful Vank Cathedral, which was built in the early 17th century and features beautiful frescoes and tile work. The quarter also has many traditional cafes, shops, and restaurants, as well as a beautiful park.
Hidden Wonders
If you're a fan of off-the-beaten-path attractions, you'll love the Atlas Obscura. This online guidebook features some of the world's most unusual and obscure attractions, and Isfahan has a few hidden gems of its own. In this section, we'll share two of our favorite Atlas Obscura attractions in Isfahan.
Chehel Sotoun
Chehel Sotoun, which means “Forty Columns” in Persian, is a beautiful palace located on the western side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square. The palace was built in the 17th century and features beautiful frescoes, mirrors, and tile work. Visitors can explore the palace’s many rooms and halls, as well as the beautiful gardens outside.
Masjid-e Jameh
Masjid-e Jameh, also known as the Jameh Mosque, is one of the oldest mosques in Iran and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mosque was originally built in the 8th century, and has been expanded and renovated many times over the years. Visitors can explore the mosque’s many courtyards, prayer halls, and minarets, as well as the beautiful tile work and calligraphy.
Accommodation Suggestions
Whether you're looking for budget-friendly accommodations or luxurious hotels, Isfahan has a variety of options to choose from. In this section, we'll share four recommendations for accommodations in Isfahan, ranging from budget-friendly to high-end.
Budget option:
The Piroozy Hotel is a budget-friendly option located in the heart of Isfahan, just a short walk from Naqsh-e Jahan Square. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. There is also a restaurant and a coffee shop on site.
Mid-range option:
The Setareh Hotel is a mid-range option located in a quiet neighborhood in Isfahan, about a 10-minute drive from Naqsh-e Jahan Square. The hotel offers spacious rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and satellite TVs. There is also a restaurant, a rooftop terrace, and a swimming pool on site.
Luxury option:
The Abbasi Hotel is a luxurious option located in the heart of Isfahan, just a few steps from Naqsh-e Jahan Square. The hotel is housed in a beautiful 17th-century caravanserai and features stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and traditional Persian decor. The hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. There are also several restaurants, cafes, and bars on site.
Boutique:
The Aseman Hotel is a boutique option located in a quiet neighborhood in Isfahan, about a 10-minute drive from Naqsh-e Jahan Square. The hotel offers stylish and modern rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. There is also a restaurant, a rooftop terrace, and a fitness center on site. The hotel’s unique design and attention to detail make it a great choice for travelers looking for a unique and memorable stay.
Overall, Isfahan is a beautiful city with a rich history and many attractions to explore. Naqsh-e Jahan Square is a must-see attraction, and visitors should take the time to explore the city’s beautiful architecture, parks, and outdoor spaces. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Isfahan has something to offer.
