Iran by Train Tour Program

Day 1: Arrival in Tehran

Welcome to Tehran, the vibrant capital of Iran! Upon arrival at the airport, you will be greeted by our local representative and escorted to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax and settle in, recover from your journey, and get a first glimpse of the city that blends modern energy with deep historical roots.

Traveler’s Tip: If you have some energy left, consider a short evening walk around your hotel area to enjoy a cup of Persian tea and observe the city’s lively atmosphere.

Day 2 – Discover Tehran: The Beating Heart of Iran / eveningtrain Shiraz

Your journey begins with a full-day exploration of Tehran, the vibrant capital of Iran and the largest metropolitan city in the Middle East. Known as the city that never sleeps, Tehran is a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity — a place where ancient heritage meets contemporary life.

Throughout its recent history, Tehran has been the stage for many of Iran’s most important political and cultural events. One day is hardly enough to uncover all its layers, but even a short visit reveals the city’s rich contrasts: from historic Qajar palaces to modern art galleries, from bustling bazaars to sleek shopping malls, and from mountain views to hip cafés and street food stalls.

For a classic Tehran city tour, we recommend starting with the National Museum of Iran. Divided into two sections — the Museum of Ancient Iran and the Museum of Islamic Art and Architecture — it offers an excellent introduction to the country’s long and diverse history. It’s the perfect starting point for understanding the treasures you’ll encounter throughout your journey in Iran.

Next, visit the magnificent Golestan Palace, one of Tehran’s oldest historical landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the royal residence of the Qajar dynasty, this elegant complex includes 17 buildings, featuring palaces, halls, and museums. Inside, you’ll find exquisite examples of Persian craftsmanship alongside European artworks and gifts from the 18th and 19th centuries.

If time allows, make sure to stop by the Treasury of National Jewels — home to one of the most dazzling collections of gemstones in the world, each with a fascinating story.

Continue your exploration at the Tehran Grand Bazaar, one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Its vast network of corridors is divided by product type, creating a lively maze filled with carpets, spices, jewelry, and local crafts. This area represents the historic heart of Tehran and offers an authentic look into the city’s daily life.

To experience modern Tehran, head north to the Tabiat (Nature) Bridge, a contemporary architectural symbol connecting two large parks. It’s the perfect place to relax with a coffee, enjoy panoramic views, and watch how locals unwind after a busy day in the city.

These highlights are just a glimpse of what Tehran has to offer. Whether you’re passionate about history, architecture, or modern culture, this dynamic city will surprise you at every turn. For personalized recommendations or tailored city tours, feel free to contact our team — we’ll help you discover the Tehran that best matches your interests.

In the evening with lux night train you will travel to Shiraz. We book a compartment with 4 beds for every 2 passengers. Dinner will be served on board. 

Day 3 – Exploring the Cultural and Poetic City of Shiraz

In the morning you will arrive in Shiraz, a city where the rhythm of life is relaxed and enchanting. Known as the City of Roses and Nightingales, Shiraz has a rich heritage in Persian poetry and literature, having been home to many of Iran’s most famous poets.

Start your morning at the Nasir al-Molk Mosque, famously called the Pink Mosque for its extensive use of pink-colored tiles in the interior design. The mosque’s stained-glass façade creates a breathtaking spectacle in the morning sunlight, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Next, visit the tombs of two legendary Persian poets, Hafez and Sa’adi, where you can appreciate the poetic spirit that permeates the city. Continue to the Eram Garden, especially beautiful in May when orange blossoms perfume the air, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat.

In the evening, experience the lively side of Shiraz. Locals often enjoy picnic dinners in the city’s parks, bringing families and children together for a relaxed evening. Alternatively, dine at one of Shiraz’s many restaurants with live music, savoring the final flavors of Persia in an atmosphere rich with culture and tradition.

This day provides a perfect blend of Persian poetry, architecture, gardens, and vibrant city life, marking a memorable conclusion to your Iranian adventure.

Day 4 – Shiraz • Persepolis • Pasargadae • Isfahan

After breakfast, your private car and driver will pick you up at the hotel and you will leave Shiraz.
After about an hour’s drive you arrive at Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, located at the foothills of Mount Rahmat. Persepolis was founded mainly during the reign of Darius I and served as a royal spring and summer residence, as well as a ceremonial center where delegations from across the empire came to pay homage to the king.
You can visit several of the complex’s surviving structures, including the Gate of All Nations, the impressive Apadana Staircase, the Apadana Palace, the palaces of Darius I and Xerxes, and other remains of Achaemenid kings.

A short drive away lies Naghsh-e Rostam, the necropolis of the Achaemenid dynasty. Towering above you are four monumental rock-cut tombs belonging to the Achaemenid kings. Beneath them you will find remarkable Sassanid rock reliefs depicting royal ceremonies and victories.

Your journey continues to Pasargadae, the first capital of the Achaemenid Empire, founded by Cyrus the Great. The highlight here is the simple yet majestic Tomb of Cyrus, standing alone in the open plain—a symbolic landmark of ancient Persian heritage.

In the evening you arrive in Isfahan, where we offer you a panoramic introduction tour of the city, giving you your first glimpse of its elegant bridges, historic avenues, and beautiful squares.

Day 5 – Discovering the Architectural Wonders of Isfahan

Today marks your first full day in Isfahan, one of Iran’s most stunning cities, where you will stroll along boulevards lined with gardens and marvel at masterpieces of Persian-Islamic architecture.

Your tour begins at Naghsh-e Jahan Square, one of the largest and most beautiful city squares in the world. On the eastern side stands the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, built during the Safavid dynasty under Shah Abbas I as a private mosque for the royal court. On the south side of the square is the Imam Mosque (formerly Shah Mosque), also commissioned by Shah Abbas I, and considered a masterpiece of Persian architecture.

Opposite Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, you will find the Ali Qapu Palace, an imperial Safavid palace renowned for its intricate decoration and artistic grandeur. Just north of the square is the Qeysarie Bazaar, one of Isfahan’s oldest bazaars. The entrance dazzles with painted ceilings, while inside you can explore shops selling Persian carpets, miniature paintings, calligraphy, and tile work, or enjoy a refreshing cup of tea in a traditional tea house.

In the afternoon, a visit to Chehel Sotoun Pavilion is highly recommended. Built under Shah Abbas II, this pavilion is set within a beautiful garden and was used for royal entertainment. Its painted halls and scenic park offer a perfect setting to relax and soak in the elegance of Safavid art.

In the evening, you are free to enjoy Isfahan at your own pace, sampling high-quality local cuisine at one of the city’s many restaurants. No matter where your hotel is located, excellent dining options are never far away, allowing you to end the day immersed in the flavors and ambiance of this cultural capital.

Day 6 – Exploring Bridges, Zayandeh River, and the Armenian Quarter of Isfahan

Wake up to another day in Isfahan, with memories of its intricate eslimi patterns, miniatures, and frescoes still fresh from yesterday. Today, you will explore both the architectural and cultural highlights of this stunning city.

Isfahan is famous for the Zayandeh River, the largest river of the Iranian Plateau, which flows through the city and is spanned by some of the most beautiful bridges in Iran. There are eleven historic bridges along the river, and today you will visit two of them. The Allahverdikhan Bridge, also known as Si-o-Se Pol, is the largest and most iconic. The second, the Khaju Bridge, is widely celebrated by scholars such as Arthur Pope and Jean Chardin as “the culminating monument of Persian bridge architecture,” combining utility, beauty, rhythm, and recreation in perfect harmony.

Next, you will explore the Armenian Quarter in Jolfa, home to a vibrant Armenian community in Isfahan. Here, visit the Vank Cathedral and its museum, which showcase Armenian art, architecture, and history. Stroll through the streets and alleys of Jolfa, where the aroma of fresh coffee fills the air — a reflection of the many coffee bars and cafes that make this district a lively evening destination. Jolfa is perfect for experiencing street food, local restaurants, and the vibrant energy of young locals enjoying the cultural hub of the city.

This day offers a blend of Persian architecture, riverfront beauty, and multicultural charm, giving you a deeper insight into Isfahan’s unique character.

Day 7 – From Isfahan to Yazd via Nain and Meybod

Today you leave Isfahan, carrying memories of its splendid Safavid architecture and arts, and head toward Yazd, a desert city known for its ancient Persian architecture and Zoroastrian heritage. Along the way, there are several fascinating stops worth exploring.

Your first stop is Nain, a city with a desert climate where ingenious qanat systems were developed centuries ago to bring water from the mountains to the plains. Nain is one of the best places to see these ancient underground aqueducts. The city also boasts some of Iran’s oldest monuments, including the Jame Mosque of Nain, and is well-known for its textile and carpet workshops, which reflect a rich artisanal tradition.

Continuing toward Yazd, you pass through Aghda, Ardakan, and Meybod. Make a stop in Meybod, a historic desert town with a history dating back to the pre-Islamic era. Here, you can visit the ancient Narin Castle (Narin Ghaleh), which dates back nearly 2,000 years to the Sassanid dynasty. Meybod also has impressive Safavid and Qajar sites, including a caravanserai, Chapar Khaneh (the historical postal service office), and the famous Meybod Ice Reservoir, an ingenious ancient cooling system. While strolling through the streets, you can also see ceramic and pottery workshops, showcasing traditional Iranian craftsmanship.

Late in the afternoon, you arrive in Yazd and check in at a charming boutique hotel in the old town. Staying here allows you to easily explore the city on foot and enjoy the unique atmosphere of Yazd, including roof-top cafes where you can relax and soak in the desert city’s ambiance before tomorrow’s exploration.

Day 8 – Exploring the Desert City of Yazd

Today you will discover Yazd, a city renowned for its unique desert architecture and ingenious windcatcher (Badgir) ventilation systems, designed to naturally cool homes during the hot summer months.

Begin your city tour with a visit to the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, where the sacred fire is said to have been burning continuously since around 470 AD. Yazd is home to a significant Zoroastrian community, making this temple an important spiritual and cultural site.

Next, explore the Dowlat Abad Garden, one of the finest examples of a Persian garden. Originally built for residential purposes, the garden features the tallest windcatcher in Iran at its center, demonstrating both aesthetic beauty and ingenious climate adaptation.

In the afternoon, stroll through Yazd’s old town to visit the Jame Mosque of Yazd and admire the striking Amir Chakhmaq façade, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Continue to the Yazd Bazaar, where you can witness the city’s famous Termeh silk textiles, celebrated worldwide for their intricate designs — a craft even noted by Marco Polo in 1272.

In the evening, experience a unique cultural activity at a Zurkhaneh, a traditional Persian gymnasium where Varzesh-e Bastani, an ancient system of athletics used to train warriors, is practiced. Watching this traditional sport offers a fascinating insight into Persia’s historical martial and athletic traditions.

Day 9 – Yazd to Kashan by Train

In the morning, board a comfortable train for a scenic two-hour journey from Yazd to Kashan, a charming oasis town renowned for its wealthy merchants and exquisite historic houses.

Upon arrival, you’ll find that many of these magnificent merchant houses are located close together, near your hotel. Spend time exploring the Tabatabai House, with its stunning stained-glass windows and beautifully decorated rooms, or the Broujerdi House, home of a samovar merchant, where you’ll discover exquisite frescoes by the famous Iranian artist Kamal-al-Molk. Nearby, visit Hammam-e Sultan Mir Ahmed, a beautifully tiled traditional bathhouse that, though no longer functioning as a bath, offers a glimpse into historic Persian architecture.

No visit to Kashan is complete without a stroll through Fin Garden, one of the finest examples of a Persian garden. Originally developed before the Safavid period and enhanced under Shah Abbas II, it later became famous as the site of the tragic assassination of Amir Kabir, the Qajar chancellor, in 1852.

For a journey even further back in time, head to the Sialk Hills on the outskirts of Kashan, an archaeological site dating back to 6000–5500 BC, where early human civilization in the region can be traced.

Tonight, stay in one of Kashan’s restored historic houses, now a charming boutique hotel. Relax in the serene courtyard, complete with a central fountain and leafy trees, and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea or traditional cold herbal syrup.

Day 10 – Kashan to Tehran by Train

After breakfast, board a morning train for a comfortable journey back to Tehran, Iran’s bustling capital.

Upon arrival, you’ll have the afternoon at your leisure to explore anything you may have missed earlier. Consider taking an easy stroll in Darband, a scenic area in northern Tehran at the foot of the Alborz Mountains. Enjoy the fresh mountain air, wander along the charming paths, and soak in the natural beauty. In the evening, relax with a delicious dinner at one of Darband’s local restaurants, where traditional Persian dishes are served in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

This day offers a perfect mix of relaxation, light exploration, and culinary delights before the conclusion of your journey.