location.beaches.districts_subtitle
Historic covered market and commercial center.
Mountain resort with hiking trails and traditional restaurants.
Northern district with bazaar and Imamzadeh Saleh shrine.
faq.subtitle Tehran
NO! Due to US sanctions, Visa, MasterCard, and all Western cards don't work. Bring ALL cash you need in USD or EUR. Exchange at official sarafi shops (much better rates than bank). Iran is cheap once you have cash. This is most important thing to know!
Yes, by law. Headscarf covering hair required in public. Doesn't need to be tight - loose scarf is fine. Many Iranian women push boundaries - some hair showing is common in North Tehran. Manteau (long coat) or loose clothing covering body. Enforcement varies.
Generally yes! Iranians are famously hospitable - expect invitations for tea. Crime against tourists rare. Political situation is concern - check travel advisories. Avoid protests, don't photograph government buildings. Most visitors overwhelmed by kindness. Separate people from politics.
Yes, but complicated. US citizens must join organized tour with government-approved guide. Independent travel not allowed. Apply for visa through tour operator. Worth it! Iran is incredible. Same rules for UK and Canadian citizens. Check current regulations as they change.
Useful tips for visiting Tehran
BRING CASH! Western cards don't work due to sanctions. Bring USD or EUR, exchange at sarafi (exchange shops). Rates much better than official bank rate. ATMs useless for foreigners. This is most critical advice for Iran.
Download Snapp app before arrival - Iran's Uber. Works great, super cheap. Can pay driver cash. Essential for getting around. Also useful: VPN app (Instagram, Facebook blocked but VPN widely used by locals too).
Visit National Jewelry Museum - Crown Jewels collection is mind-blowing. Includes Sea of Light diamond (world's largest uncut). Only open Sat-Tue, 2-4:30pm. Book ahead. In Central Bank building. Photography prohibited.
Get lost in Grand Bazaar - 10km of covered alleys! Bargain hard (start at 50% of asking price). Best carpets, spices, saffron. Closed Fridays. Go early to avoid crowds. Easy to spend half day. Chaotic but magical.
Average temperature by month
location.transport.subtitle
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Cost of food, accommodation and services
Prices are approximate and may vary by season and area.
Hotels and rental prices
Prices are approximate. Book in advance during high season.
location.payment.subtitle
CASH ONLY! International cards DO NOT work due to sanctions! Visa/Mastercard/AmEx blocked completely. Bring USD or EUR cash to exchange. Rial local currency. Very cash-dependent economy. Plan accordingly!
CRITICAL: NO international cards work! Bring USD or EUR cash. Exchange at hotels or authorized exchange offices. Multiple exchange rates exist - official vs market. ATMs for foreigners DO NOT work. Cash-only economy due to sanctions. Plan all expenses in advance!
Tipping not customary traditionally. Small tips appreciated for exceptional service. 5-10% in upscale restaurants optional. Not expected.
Follow standard precautions
Tehran is generally safe for tourists. Iranians extremely hospitable. Petty crime low. Main concerns: political situation (check advisories), women must wear hijab, no alcohol. Traffic chaotic. Avoid political gatherings. Most visitors report feeling very safe and welcomed.