Rasht Gilan Province, Iran Travel Guide
Most foreign nationals require a visa for Iran. Initiate this part of your trip planning well in advance. Visa types include Tourist, Business, and Transit. The application process generally includes obtaining an Authorization Code, often through an Iranian travel agency or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-Visa portal.
After receiving the code, apply for the visa at an Iranian embassy or consulate in your home country. Some nationalities qualify for visa-on-arrival (VOA) under specific conditions or enjoy visa exemptions. US, UK, and Canadian citizens face more stringent requirements, often needing an approved excursion and guide. Commence your visa application many months before your planned departure if you come from this group countries.
Visa fees vary significantly by nationality and type, ranging from €50 to €150 or more. Payment usually occurs at the embassy/consulate or upon arrival for VOA. Immigration procedures involve standard passport control at the port of entry.
Generally, no special permits are necessary for tourism in Rasht or Gilan. Visiting certain sensitive border areas or specific restricted zones might require prior authorization, but this rarely applies to typical tourist routes.
(Late Spring / Early Autumn)
Pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and city exploration. Less extreme humidity.
More demand for accommodations and tours, increased prices. Attractions become more packed, specifically during Iranian holidays like Nowruz (March/April).
(Mid-Spring, Mid-Autumn)
Fewer crowds compared to high season, potentially lower prices for lodging and activities. Weather remains relatively pleasant for cultural exploration.
Weather can be unpredictable, with a higher chance of rain. Travelers should prepare for sudden changes.
(Summer and Winter)
Lowest prices for accommodations and tours. Fewer tourists provide a more relaxed experience. Unique atmosphere, like winter snowscapes.
Summer: Intense heat and high humidity can cause discomfort. Winter: Cold, wet conditions prevail. Travel disruptions because of snow or heavy rain.
Budget traveler: 40-70 USD (hostel, street food, public transport). Mid-range traveler: 80-150 USD (3-star hotel, mid-range restaurants, occasional taxi). Luxury traveler: 180-300+ USD (4-5-star hotel, fine dining, private driver).
Guesthouse/Hostel: 15-30 USD/night. Mid-range hotel: 40-80 USD/night. Luxury hotel: 90-200+ USD/night. Street food/Local eatery: 3-8 USD/meal. Mid-range restaurant: 10-25 USD/meal. Fine dining: 30-60+ USD/meal.
Utilize local buses and pool taxis (Savari) for intra-city transport.
Eat at local eateries and street food stalls for authentic, inexpensive meals.
Bargain politely in bazaars for non-food items.
Carry sufficient cash (USD or EUR) for exchange, as international card payments are not possible.
Consider an Iranian debit card upon arrival for cashless transactions within Iran.
Rasht features several well-equipped public and private hospitals (e.g., Poursina, Heshmat, Golsar Hospitals). Pharmacies are widely available, with many medications over-the-counter.
No specific vaccinations are required for entry. Recommended ones include routine immunizations, Hepatitis A AND B shots, and Typhoid. Rabies is suggested for extensive outdoor animal exposure.
AirHelp assists passengers in receiving up to €600 in compensation for delayed or canceled flights. Their service is precious for unexpected flight disruptions.
