- Isfahan is a large city in central Iran.
- It was once the capital of Iran and is filled with historic monuments.
- Isfahan is known as “Half of the World” because of its beauty and importance.
- Shah Abbas of the Safavid dynasty developed and beautified the city.
What’s the Weather Like in Isfahan?
- Isfahan has a four-season climate.
- Summer: Hot and dry.
- Winter: Cold with little rainfall.
- Spring and Autumn: Mild and perfect for travel.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Isfahan?
- The best times to visit are in autumn (October–November) and spring (March–May).
- Autumn offers pleasant weather, colorful nature, and fewer crowds — ideal for sightseeing.
- Spring comes with beautiful flowers and mild temperatures, though Nowruz (Iranian New Year) can be crowded and more expensive.
- 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
- Even if you’re traveling by private car, it’s recommended to use public transportation to avoid traffic restrictions.
- Isfahan has a diverse public transportation system including metro, taxis, and more, offering easy access to tourist sites.
- The fastest way to reach Isfahan is by airplane.
- Shahid Beheshti International Airport has daily flights from different cities and is located 30 minutes from the city center.
- Airport taxis are available for easy transport to central areas.
Where to Stay in Isfahan: Hotels or Traditional Guesthouses?
Isfahan offers accommodations for every budget — from luxurious hotels to budget inns.
Top Accommodation Options:
Parsian Kowsar Hotel — A well-established hotel with 50 years of hospitality.
Aseman Hotel — Known for its stunning city views.
Abbasi Hotel — One of the world’s most beautiful hotels with breathtaking historic architecture.
Piroozi Hotel — Cozy and friendly atmosphere.
Espadana Hotel — Great option for travelers with good facilities.
Jamshid Hotel — Affordable accommodation in the heart of Isfahan.
Hasht Behesht Hotel — Ideal for family stays.
Hamam Hotel — Safe and comfortable accommodation.
Part Hotel — Peaceful lodging in the city center.
Tolou Khorshid Traditional Hotel — Experience staying in Isfahan’s historic district.
Iravani Traditional Residence — One of the most beautiful guesthouses in Isfahan.
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.
Naqsh-e Jahan Square — The second-largest square in the world.
Ali Qapu Palace — The royal palace of Safavid kings.
Imam Mosque — One of the largest and most famous mosques in the world.
Jameh Mosque of Isfahan — A unique masterpiece of Iranian and Islamic architecture.
Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque — One of the most beautiful Islamic buildings in Iran.
Chehel Sotoun Palace — A symbol of Iranian history and art.
Si-o-Se Pol Bridge — One of the world’s finest bridges.
Khaju Bridge — A remarkable architectural achievement of the Safavid era.
Vank Cathedral — The most important Armenian church in Iran.
Hasht Behesht Palace — A remaining masterpiece from the Safavid period.
Monar Jonban (Shaking Minarets) — A mysterious architectural wonder.
Isfahan Flower Garden — A dreamy paradise in Half of the World.
Isfahan Bird Garden — A great place for family outings.
Nazhvan Forest Park — One of Isfahan’s largest and most beautiful parks.
Best Shopping Places in Isfahan
Naqsh-e Jahan Bazaar — One of Isfahan’s most lively and famous bazaars.
Qeysarieh Bazaar — A 500-year-old historical market.
Isfahan City Center — The largest commercial and cultural center in Iran.
Hakim Grand Bazaar — One of Isfahan’s key markets.
Bazaar-e Honar (Art Bazaar) — One of the city’s oldest bazaars.
Goldis Shopping Center — Excellent for handicrafts and traditional products.
Best Souvenirs from Isfahan
Famous Sweets:
Gaz (Nougat)
Poolaki (Thin Sugar Candy)
Jowz Ghandi (Candied Walnuts)
Korki Pastry
Sohan Asali (Honey Brittle)
Traditional Handicrafts:
Khatam Kari (Marquetry) — A classic and beautiful Iranian craft.
Ghalamzani (Metal Engraving) — A timeless art form in Iran.
Mina Kari (Enamel Work) — With a history of nearly 5000 years.
Copper Work — One of the city’s oldest crafts.
Monabbat Kari (Woodcarving) — A valuable and authentic Iranian art.
Qalamkar Fabrics (Block Printed Textiles)
Famous Traditional Dishes of Isfahan
Sholleh Beryan Ziré (Isfahan-Style Roast Lamb with Cumin)
Ash-e Shorba-ye Sabzi (Herbed Vegetable Soup)
Beryani (Grilled Lamb Specialty)
Gheymeh Rizeh (Meatball Stew)
Halim Bademjan (Eggplant and Meat Porridge)
