Visa-Free Exploration: Tehran

With a population exceeding 15 million, Tehran, the capital of Iran, stands as one of the most populous cities in the Middle East. What makes Tehran truly distinctive and appealing is its rich history, evoking an atmosphere reminiscent of One Thousand and One Nights. Consequently, it garners attention beyond the usual hype. Tehran boasts unique cultural landmarks, museums, mosques, and art galleries, establishing it as the Middle East's most deeply rooted and culturally rich destination. Given Tehran's visa-free status, numerous tourists from our country embark on the journey each year to explore this captivating city. So, how do you get to Tehran, and what should you see? We'll guide you through it all, step by step.

Is a Visa Required for Tehran?

First and foremost, it's crucial to note that Tehran is among the visa-exempt cities. Citizens of the Republic of Turkey can visit Tehran without a visa for excursions and tours, provided their return date is valid for at least 6 months. Otherwise, there are no barriers to visiting Tehran in any way.

How to Reach Tehran?

Getting to Tehran from our country is quite convenient, thanks to direct and non-stop flights. The capital is reachable within a mere 2 hours of flight time, with flights available not only from Istanbul but also from Ankara and Izmir.

Must-Visit Spots in Tehran

Tehran, the capital of Iran, promises a wealth of cultural experiences. Therefore, conducting thorough research and planning your itinerary in advance can enhance your trip. We'll detail the recommended places to see in Tehran, allowing you to tailor your program based on your preferences. Tehran's most famous and must-visit locations are as follows:

Gulistan Palace

Undoubtedly, the city's most significant structure is Gulistan Palace. Erected in the 16th century, this palace served as the residence for Iran's Shahs for centuries. Comprising three parts, the palace showcases the winter palace with mosaics, sculptures, and frescoes depicting Iran's rich history. The summer palace, constructed in the 18th century, stands as the largest section, showcasing the finest examples of Iran's traditional architecture. The Spring palace, completed in the 19th century, represents the newest part of the palace, featuring more recent examples of modern architecture.

National Jewelry Museum

Situated in the heart of Tehran and a popular tourist attraction, the National Jewelry Museum houses a diverse collection of valuable jewels. Exhibiting the most prized pieces and jewels of Iran from the past to the present, the museum is a must-visit during your Tehran journey.

Tehran Bazaar

The world-renowned Tehran Bazaar is located in the heart of the city. This vast covered market, one of the largest in the world, dates back to the 19th century. The bazaar offers a wide variety of goods, and if you're looking to buy souvenirs while in Tehran, this is a must-visit. Even if you're not shopping, you might still want to stroll through this grand bazaar.

Niavaran Palace

Niavaran Palace was built in the 20th century and served as the residence of Iran's last shahs. The palace is now open to visitors, showcasing a collection of the finest examples of modern Iranian architecture. The gardens of the palace are truly magnificent, adorned with flowers and trees brought from all around the world. When exploring Tehran, make sure to include Niavaran Palace on your list of places to visit.

Azadi Tower

Azadi Tower, one of Tehran's most important structures, was built in 1971. The tower was constructed to commemorate the 2,500th anniversary of the Persian Empire. Standing at a height of 435 meters, the tower was designed by Iranian architect Hossein Amanat. The design of the tower beautifully reflects both pre-Islamic and Islamic architectural elements. As Azadi Tower is among Tehran's iconic structures, you might want to take the opportunity to see this intriguing tower.

What to Eat in Tehran?

Just like its history, Tehran's cuisine has ancient roots. The rich Iranian cuisine caters to every palate, featuring dishes made with meat, vegetables, legumes, and rice. One of the most popular and well-known dishes is Khoresht, a general term for meat and vegetable stews that vary in ingredients, such as meat with chickpeas, eggplant, or fish.

Kebabs, which hold a significant place in our culinary culture, are also highly renowned in Iran. Made with meat, chicken, or fish pieces, these delicious meals are indispensable in Tehran's culinary scene. Kebab varieties include rice kebab, minced meat kebab, and leaf kebab. Another important dish in Iranian cuisine is dolma. Tehran offers various types of dolma, such as stuffed eggplant, grape leaves, and fish.

One of the most famous dishes in Iranian cuisine is Abgoosht, a soup made by combining meat, beans, and various vegetables. This hearty soup is typically served with lavash bread on the side.