Hamadan Hamadan Province, Iran Travel Guide
Major mobile providers in Iran include Irancell, MCI (Hamrah-e Avval), and Rightel. Local SIM cards are available at international airports or official provider shops in Hamadan; your passport is necessary for registration.
Persian (Farsi) serves as the official language. English speakers are not widely distributed outside of major tourist-focused establishments (like certain hotels or tour agencies).
Shops generally operate from 9 AM to 9 PM, with many closing for a lunch/afternoon rest, notably in warmer months. Government offices and banks typically open from 8 AM to 4 PM, Saturday through Wednesday.
Nowruz (Persian New Year), typically around March 20-21, lasts about two weeks. This period marks a major holiday; numerous businesses close down or have limited hours. It constitutes a peak domestic travel season.
Embrace Taarof, a multifaceted politeness system. When someone offers something, polite refusal once or twice precedes acceptance if the offer is genuine.
Services at airports can enhance your travel comfort and manage surprising delays.
Check your flight status and terminal information well in advance of departure.
Access to independent airport lounges is available for frequent travelers. Explore Priority Pass options.
Look for baggage services, including storage and wrapping, at major Iranian airports.
A service assists customers in receiving compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or refused entry onto the plane. Rules and eligibility criteria apply.
Currency exchange services are available at airports. It's recommended to compare rates with those found in the heart of the city for better value.
ATMs accept only local Iranian bank cards. International credit and debit cards are not usable for cash withdrawals.
Access for travelers with mobility issues remains a developing region in Iran.
Facilities for travelers with mobility issues in Hamadan is limited. Most historical sites, public transport (buses), and of a greater age buildings do not present wheelchair access.
Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited. Independent travel could be problematic.
Taxis or private vehicles offer the most flexibility for transport for travelers with mobility challenges. Public transportation such as buses are generally not accessible.
Some newer commercial centers and the Ganjnameh Telecabin may present better accessibility features. Many older, historical sites have limited access.
Gender segregation appears in many public spaces. Homosexuality is illegal in Iran; travelers use your judgment and awareness of local laws.
Area etiquette are important to observe for a respectful and engaging visit.
Handshakes are common between people of the same gender. Initiating physical contact with people of the opposite gender in public is generally avoided unless they extend their hand first.
Women wear a mandatory headscarf covering hair and neck in public. Loose-fitting, long-sleeved tops and trousers/skirts that cover the entire body are customary.
Specific information on dining customs and the practice of tipping can be found in other portions of the guide. General practice is to tip modestly for good service.
Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, specifically women. A gesture and a verbal "Aks?" (photo?) usually suffice.
