Tabriz Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Communication

Stay connected with local SIM cards and available internet options.

Connectivity & Providers

Local SIM cards: Irancell, MCI, Rightel.
Wi-Fi in hotels, guesthouses, cafes.
4G/LTE mobile data is standard.

Digital Solutions

Consider eSIMs and portable Wi-Fi for international connectivity.

Modern Travel Tools

For an eSIM, consider Airalo.
Portable Wi-Fi from Solis Wi-Fi.
Learn Farsi basics with Rosetta Stone.

Language & Translation

Navigating language differences with useful resources.

Bridge the Gap

Azerbaijani and Farsi are widely spoken.
Download Google Translate's offline Farsi pack.
Carry a small Farsi phrasebook.

Postal Services

Sending postcards and parcels via the national postal service.

Iran Post

National postal service for international mail.
Find post offices in central locations.
Delivery times vary.

Important Phrases Farsi

Greetings & Thanks

Hello: Salaam (sah-LAAM)
Thank you: Mamnoon (mam-NOON) or Merci
Yes: Baleh (bah-LEH)
No: Kheyr (kheyr) or Na (nah)

Useful Expressions

Please: Lotfan (lot-FAN)
Excuse me/Sorry: Bebakhshid (beh-bakh-SHEED)
How much?: Chand ast? (chand AST?)
Goodbye: Khoda Hafez (kho-DAH HAA-fez)

Communication Note

Be aware that many international social media platforms and some news sites are blocked in Iran. VPNs are widely used by locals. Download a reliable VPN application before you arrive.

Business Hours & Schedules

A guide to typical operating hours, banking, and holidays in Tabriz.

Shops & Bazaar

Generally Saturday-Thursday, 9 AM - 8 IN the evening. Many close for an afternoon break (1 PM - 4 PM). Closed Fridays and public holidays.

Government Offices

Typically Saturday-Wednesday, 8 AM - 4 PM. Restaurants: Lunch 12 PM - 3 PM; Dinner 7 PM - 11 PM.

Food & Dining

Lunch service 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM; Dinner 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM. Cafes often open earlier and nearby later.

Banking & ATMs

Financial services and payment methods.

Accessing Funds

Banks open Saturday-Wednesday, 8 AM - 4 PM.
ATMs are widely available but only accept local cards.
Carry sufficient cash (USD or EUR) for exchange.

Holidays & Closures

Public and religious holidays impact business operations.

Plan Ahead

Nowruz (Iranian New Year) leads to extended closures.
Holidays in islam (e.g., Eid al-Fitr) follow the lunar calendar.
Some attractions have reduced hours or temporary closures in winter.

Travel Perks & Protection

Airport Lounge Access

Consider Priority Pass for airport lounge access.
Comfort before or after flights.
Valuable for frequent travelers.

Flight Disruption Compensation

For flight delays/cancellations, Compensair assists.
Helps claim compensation.
Service streamlines the process.

Seasonal Planning

Always verify opening times for specific sites you plan to visit, especially around major holidays or during off-peak seasons.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greeting Customs

Traditional ways to greet locals.

Polite Interactions

Handshakes are common between people of the same gender.
Between opposite genders, wait for the woman to initiate contact.
A nod, slight bow, or hand over your heart shows respect.

Appropriate Attire

Dress codes for public and religious settings.

Modesty in Public

Women: headscarf covering hair and neck, loose-fitting clothes.
Men: long trousers; long-sleeved shirts in formal settings.
Modesty is a required aspect of public dress.

Dining & Tipping

Local Practices

Taarof: Initial refusals of offers are customary; insist 2-3 times.
Tipping is appreciated, not mandatory; refer to Section 2.3 for guidelines.
Experience classic Tabrizi cuisine.

Photography & Restrictions

Directions for respectful photography.

Capture with Care

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals.
Avoid photographing government buildings, military installations, or sensitive areas.
Use discretion in all photography.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid These

Public displays of affection are inappropriate.
Consuming alcoholic beverages is illegal and strictly prohibited.
Avoid discussing politics, religion, or controversial social issues with strangers.

Be Mindful Of

Do not point the soles of your feet at people or religious objects.
Homosexuality is illegal and not tolerated.
Gender segregation in some public spaces.

Gender Considerations

Public Spaces

Public buses often have separate sections for men (front) and women (back).
Some metro cars may have women-only sections.
Separate queues for men and women in banks or public services.

Respectful Conduct

Be mindful of gender segregation when interacting.
Exercise extreme discretion regarding LGBTQ+ matters.

Cultural Tip

Carry a small notebook and pen to write down addresses or questions in Farsi if you find language barriers. This helps clear up misunderstandings.

Accessibility Information

Details for travelers with mobility difficulties and other specific needs.

Infrastructure Limitations

Challenges for mobility-impaired travelers.

Considerations

Accessibility infrastructure in Tabriz is limited.
Many historical sites and older buildings are not wheelchair-friendly.
Pavements can be uneven; ramps or elevators are not always available.

Accessible Options

Facilities and transport with better accessibility.

Easier Access

Contemporary accommodations and modern shopping malls offer better accessibility.
El Goli Park's paved paths are generally accessible.
Private taxis or a car with a driver offer flexible transport.

Specialized Services

Support for visual or hearing impairments.

Assistance Available

Limited specialized services for visual impairments.
Limited specialized services for hearing impairments.
Travel with a companion or arrange local assistance.

Information Resources

Finding accessibility information.

Where to Look

Specific organizations are not widely advertised.
Travel agencies specializing in Iran offer tailored advice.
Plan an approachable trip via specialized tour operators.

Important Advisory

For those requiring airport lounge access, Priority Pass is a valuable resource. In case of flight disruptions, Compensair assists with compensation claims.

Tabriz Travel Tips