What Do We Know About Isfahan and Its History?

1. Isfahan is a large city in central Iran.
2. It was once the capital of Iran and is filled with historic monuments.
3. Isfahan is known as “Half of the World” because of its beauty and importance.
4. Shah Abbas of the Safavid dynasty developed and beautified the city.

What’s the Weather Like in Isfahan?

1. Isfahan has a four-season climate.
2. Summer: Hot and dry.
3. Winter: Cold with little rainfall.
4. Spring and Autumn: Mild and perfect for travel.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Isfahan?

1. The best times to visit are in autumn (October–November) and spring (March–May).
2. Autumn offers pleasant weather, colorful nature, and fewer crowds — ideal for sightseeing.
3. Spring comes with beautiful flowers and mild temperatures, though Nowruz (Iranian New Year) can be crowded and more expensive.
4. Summer is hot and winter is cold, but late February (Esfand) with milder weather is a good choice for a winter trip.

Public Transportation in Isfahan | Options & Services

1. Even if you’re traveling by private car, it’s recommended to use public transportation to avoid traffic restrictions.
2. Isfahan has a diverse public transportation system including metro, taxis, and more, offering easy access to tourist sites.
3. The fastest way to reach Isfahan is by airplane.
4. Shahid Beheshti International Airport has daily flights from different cities and is located 30 minutes from the city center.
5. Airport taxis are available for easy transport to central areas.

Where to Stay in Isfahan: Hotels or Traditional Guesthouses?

1. Isfahan offers accommodations for every budget — from luxurious hotels to budget inns.
2. Top Accommodation Options:
3. Parsian Kowsar Hotel — A well-established hotel with 50 years of hospitality.
4. Aseman Hotel — Known for its stunning city views.
5. Abbasi Hotel — One of the world’s most beautiful hotels with breathtaking historic architecture.
6. Piroozi Hotel — Cozy and friendly atmosphere.
7. Espadana Hotel — Great option for travelers with good facilities.
8. Jamshid Hotel — Affordable accommodation in the heart of Isfahan.
9. Hasht Behesht Hotel — Ideal for family stays.
10. Hamam Hotel — Safe and comfortable accommodation.
11. Part Hotel — Peaceful lodging in the city center.
12. Tolou Khorshid Traditional Hotel — Experience staying in Isfahan’s historic district.
13. Iravani Traditional Residence — One of the most beautiful guesthouses in Isfahan.
14. Bekhradi Boutique Hotel — Stay in a unique historical house.

Top Places to Visit in Isfahan

Isfahan (Half of the World) is full of historical and natural attractions — perfect for every taste.

1. Naqsh-e Jahan Square — The second-largest square in the world.
2. Ali Qapu Palace — The royal palace of Safavid kings.
3. Imam Mosque — One of the largest and most famous mosques in the world.
4. Jameh Mosque of Isfahan — A unique masterpiece of Iranian and Islamic architecture.
5. Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque — One of the most beautiful Islamic buildings in Iran.
6. Chehel Sotoun Palace — A symbol of Iranian history and art.
7. Si-o-Se Pol Bridge — One of the world’s finest bridges.
8. Khaju Bridge — A remarkable architectural achievement of the Safavid era.
9. Vank Cathedral — The most important Armenian church in Iran.
10. Hasht Behesht Palace — A remaining masterpiece from the Safavid period.
11. Monar Jonban (Shaking Minarets) — A mysterious architectural wonder.
12. Isfahan Flower Garden — A dreamy paradise in Half of the World.
13. Isfahan Bird Garden — A great place for family outings.
14. Nazhvan Forest Park — One of Isfahan’s largest and most beautiful parks.

Best Shopping Places in Isfahan

1. Naqsh-e Jahan Bazaar — One of Isfahan’s most lively and famous bazaars.
2. Qeysarieh Bazaar — A 500-year-old historical market.
3. Isfahan City Center — The largest commercial and cultural center in Iran.
4. Hakim Grand Bazaar — One of Isfahan’s key markets.
5. Bazaar-e Honar (Art Bazaar) — One of the city’s oldest bazaars.
6. Goldis Shopping Center — Excellent for handicrafts and traditional products.

Best Souvenirs from Isfahan

Famous Sweets:

1. Gaz (Nougat)
2. Poolaki (Thin Sugar Candy)
3. Jowz Ghandi (Candied Walnuts)
4. Korki Pastry
5. Sohan Asali (Honey Brittle)

Traditional Handicrafts:

1. Khatam Kari (Marquetry) — A classic and beautiful Iranian craft.
2. Ghalamzani (Metal Engraving) — A timeless art form in Iran.
3. Mina Kari (Enamel Work) — With a history of nearly 5000 years.
4. Copper Work — One of the city’s oldest crafts.
5. Monabbat Kari (Woodcarving) — A valuable and authentic Iranian art.
6. Qalamkar Fabrics (Block Printed Textiles)

Famous Traditional Dishes of Isfahan

1. Sholleh Beryan Ziré (Isfahan-Style Roast Lamb with Cumin)
2. Ash-e Shorba-ye Sabzi (Herbed Vegetable Soup)
3. Beryani (Grilled Lamb Specialty)
4. Gheymeh Rizeh (Meatball Stew)
5. Halim Bademjan (Eggplant and Meat Porridge)