Direct from Paris: A Journey Through Iran’s History and Culture
Experience Iran’s history and natural beauty on this exclusive 10-day tour designed for French travelers, featuring direct flights from Paris. Explore the vibrant cities, ancient architecture, and stunning landscapes that showcase the rich tapestry of Iran’s heritage, with visits to Tehran, Kashan, Isfahan, Yazd, and Shiraz.
10 Days
- Tehran
- Tehran to Kashan (250 km)
- Kashan to Matin Abad Desert Camp (65 km)
- Matin Abad to Abyaneh Village (60 km)
- Abyaneh to Isfahan (160 km)
- Isfahan to Meybod (267 km)
- Meybod to Yazd (50 km)
- Yazd to Pasargadae and Persepolis (300 km)
- Persepolis to Shiraz (70 km)
- Shiraz
Highlights
- Duration: 10 Days
- Arrival: Tehran
- Departure: Shiraz
- Wheelchair Access Available
- Guided cultural experiences
- Iranian SIM card
- Desert camp experience
- Direct flights from Paris to Tehran and Shiraz to Paris
- In Tehran, begin with the National Museum of Iran to see invaluable ancient artifacts, then visit the Carpet Museum for a glimpse of Persian carpet artistry. End with the stunning Golestan Palace, where royal architecture combines Persian and European styles. In Kashan, stroll through the historical Fin Garden and enjoy an overnight stay at the elegant Saraye Ameriha mansion, embodying Persian architectural elegance.
- At Matin Abad Camp, embrace the peaceful desert landscape, and explore Abyaneh Village with its iconic red-brick houses and rich cultural heritage. In Isfahan, explore the magnificent Naqsh-e Jahan Square, admire the frescoes of Chehel Sotoun Palace, and take a leisurely walk along the historic Si-o-se Pol and Khaju Bridges.
- In Yazd, discover the historical Amir Chakhmaq Complex and the grand Jameh Mosque. Dive into the local ambiance at Yazd Bazaar and visit the revered Zoroastrian Fire Temple before an overnight stay at Nartiti Guesthouse. Continue to the ancient wonders of Pasargadae and Persepolis en route to Shiraz.
- In Shiraz, experience the enchanting Nasir al-Mulk Mosque with its vibrant stained glass, pay tribute at Hafez’s Tomb, and explore the lush Eram Garden. End with a stroll through Vakil Bazaar and a visit to the historic Arg of Karim Khan, capturing the city’s artistic and cultural heritage.
Hotspots
- National Museum of Iran
- Persepolis
- Pasargadae
- Golestan Palace
- Fin Garden
- Khaju Bridge
- Tabatabaei House
- Hafezieh
- Borujerdi House
- Tepe Sialk
- Matin Abad Desert Camp
- Naqsh-e Jahan Square
- Isfahan Bazaar
- Chehel Sotoun
- Narin Castle
- Zoroastrian Fire Temple
- Vakil Bazaar
- Nasir al-Mulk Mosque
Day 1: Direct Flight from Paris to Tehran
Arrive in Tehran and begin with a guided tour of the National Museum of Iran, which offers a rich collection of artifacts from Iran’s history, ranging from prehistoric tools to Islamic calligraphy. Next, visit the Carpet Museum to appreciate the intricate craftsmanship of Persian carpets. End the day at the UNESCO-listed Golestan Palace, a masterpiece of royal architecture blending Persian and European styles.
Day 2: Tehran to Kashan
Travel to Kashan, known for its traditional houses and beautiful gardens. Visit Fin Garden, a classic Persian garden filled with lush greenery and historic pavilions. Continue to explore the historic Tabatabaei and Borujerdi Houses, known for their detailed architecture, and finish the day with an overnight stay at Saraye Ameriha, a meticulously restored mansion reflecting the elegance of Persian heritage.
Day 3: Kashan to Matin Abad Desert Camp
Head to Matin Abad Desert Camp for a unique experience in Iran’s desert landscape. Enjoy the opportunity to ride camels, walk along sandy trails, and marvel at the starry night sky in this tranquil setting. Rest in a cozy desert lodge and embrace the quiet beauty of the desert surroundings.
Day 4: Matin Abad to Abyaneh and then Isfahan
Day 5: Isfahan City Tour
Spend the day exploring Naqsh-e Jahan Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by architectural marvels. Visit the majestic Imam Mosque, with its blue-tiled domes and minarets, and the intricately designed Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. Explore Ali Qapu Palace, with its unique music room, and end with a visit to Chehel Sotoun Palace, known for its frescoes and beautiful gardens.
Day 6: Isfahan – Armenian Quarter and Vank Cathedral
Today, explore Isfahan’s Armenian Quarter, where you’ll visit Vank Cathedral, one of Iran’s most historically significant churches, with beautiful murals and a museum detailing Armenian history in Iran. Spend time at the Isfahan Bazaar, where you can find Persian handicrafts, spices, and more.
Day 7: Isfahan to Meybod and Yazd
Travel to the historical town of Meybod, where you’ll visit Narin Castle, an ancient mud-brick fortress, and the Meybod Pigeon Tower, known for its unique structure and design. Upon arrival in the evening, continue to Yazd and explore the Amir Chakhmaq Complex, an iconic landmark with impressive architecture.
Day 8: Yazd City Tour and Nartiti Zoroastrian Guesthouse
Spend the day visiting Yazd’s cultural highlights. Start at the Jameh Mosque with its striking tiled entrance, then explore the lively Yazd Bazaar, filled with local goods. Visit the Zoroastrian Fire Temple to learn about the city’s Zoroastrian heritage. Stay overnight at Nartiti Guesthouse, a charming accommodation in Yazd that showcases traditional architecture.
Day 9: Yazd to Pasargadae, Persepolis, and Naqsh-e Rostam – Shiraz
Depart Yazd and travel to Pasargadae, the site of the tomb of Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Persian Empire. Continue to Persepolis, the ancient ceremonial capital with impressive stone carvings and ruins. Conclude with a visit to Naqsh-e Rostam, where you’ll see the tombs of Persian kings carved into the cliffs. Arrive in Shiraz for an evening exploration of Eram Garden and Hafez’s Tomb.
Day 10: Shiraz – Nasir al-Mulk Mosque and Departure
Begin the day at the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, famous for its colorful stained glass and morning light display. Explore Vakil Bazaar, where you can find souvenirs, spices, and handicrafts, then visit the Arg of Karim Khan, a historic citadel symbolizing the Zand dynasty. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your direct flight back to Paris.
