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How to Get to Hamadan

How to Get to Hamadan

Hamadan Hamadan Province, Iran Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Hamadan International Airport (HDM) serves the city. It is a smaller airport mainly handling domestic flights. Connections exist to Tehran (Mehrabad International Airport, THR, or Imam Khomeini International Airport, IKA) and Mashhad. Not many international flights may are open seasonally.

Flight Information

  • No direct international flights from major global hubs serve Hamadan.
  • International travelers fly into Tehran's IKA, then transfer to domestic flight to HDM.
  • Domestic prices rise during peak seasons (Nowruz, summer).

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Hamadan International Airport possesses basic amenities: a cafeteria, prayer rooms, and a taxi stand. Do not expect extensive shopping or luxury lounges. Taxis represent the main transfer option from HDM to the city center.

Transfer Details

  • Licensed taxis wait outside the terminal at HDM.
  • Agree on the fare before starting the journey.
  • Domestic flight schedules within Iran show variation.

Booking Advice

Schedule flights within the country in advance, specifically during peak travel seasons.

Flight Comparison

Explore flight options with Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Airline Options

Domestic connections exist with various Iranian airlines.

Transfer Options from Airports to City

From Hamadan International Airport HDM

  • Taxis represent the most convenient option.
  • Agree on the fare before starting the journey.
  • Licensed taxis wait outside the terminal building.
  • A short ride to the city center.

From Tehran IKA to Hamadan

  • Domestic flight: Transfer to Mehrabad Airport (THR) for connections to HDM.
  • Ground transportation: Intercity buses are a common option.
  • Private transfer: Hire a private driver for direct travel.
  • Train: Connect via Tehran to Hamadan's railway station.

Airport Considerations

Domestic Focus

Hamadan's airport focuses on domestic routes, with limited international charter flights.

Tehran Hub

IKA serves as the main international gateway for Iran.

Seasonal Shifts

Flight prices and availability fluctuate seasonally.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Hamadan connects to the Iranian national railway network. Trains represent a comfortable and scenic way to travel. Train services link Hamadan with Tehran and Mashhad.

Train Travel Essentials

  • Comfortable and scenic travel option.
  • Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Train station is outside the city center, taxi ride needed.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Iran boasts an extensive and popular long-distance bus network, representing an economical and open-ended travel option. Numerous bus companies operate daily services from Hamadan to major Iranian cities.

Bus Travel Essentials

  • Reach Tehran, Esfahan, Shiraz, Tabriz, Mashhad by bus.
  • Well-organized coach terminals with facilities.
  • Buses range from standard to VIP for comfort.

Self-Driving Considerations

Renting a car and self-driving is possible but less common for international visitors. If you plan to drive, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your home country's driver's license.

Driving Information

  • IDP needed with home driver's license.
  • Road quality varies; major intercity roads are good.
  • Traffic can be chaotic; defensive driving is a must.

Road Conditions & Safety

Major intercity roads in Iran are generally well-maintained. However, mountainous roads around Hamadan show challenges, especially in winter with snow and ice. Driving at night on rural roads is not recommended.

Safety Measures

  • Exercise caution and remain alert when driving.
  • Mountain roads need extra care in winter.
  • Avoid night driving on rural roads owing to scarce lighting.

Border Crossing Information

  • Hamadan Province has no international border crossings for tourist entry.
  • Land entrances are in other provinces (e.g., Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan).
  • Research specific crossing point requirements well in advance if planning land entry.
  • Sea/River Arrivals: Not applicable to landlocked Hamadan.
  • Ferry services and cruise ports do not apply to Hamadan.
  • River transit choices do not apply.

Departure Information

Exit Fees or Taxes

An exit tax applies to all non-Iranian citizens departing Iran by air or land. The amount varies and must be paid in advance. You can typically pay this tax at designated banks or at ATMs located at airports or border crossings.

Payment Details

  • Amount varies by mode of transport.
  • Payment at designated banks or ATMs.
  • Check the present fee before your departure.

Departure Procedures & Timing

For domestic flights from Hamadan International Airport, arrive at least 1-2 hours before departure. For intercity bus/train, arrive 30-60 minutes before departure.

International Flight Timing

  • For international flights from Tehran IKA, allow 2-3 hours for check-in and security.
  • Allow extra time if paying exit tax at the airport.
  • Always reconfirm your schedule a day or two before departure.

Efficient Departure

Plan ahead and confirm all schedules for a smooth exit.

Tax Payment

Ensure exit tax payment is completed before reaching airport security.

Station Facilities

Hamadan's airport, bus, and train stations offer basic facilities for travelers.

Getting Around Hamadan

Public Transportation

Hamadan''s public transport network focuses on its bus network, which provides coverage across the city. The bus system offers an economical way to travel, connecting various neighborhoods and attractions.

Bus System Features

  • Comprehensive bus network, no metro/tram.
  • Fares paid with rechargeable an electronic cards.
  • Operates from sunrise to after sunset (06:00 - 9/10 PM).

Walking & Cycling

The city center, around Imam Khomeini Square and Bu-Ali Sina Square, is generally pedestrian-friendly. Historical areas, like the Grand Bazaar, and local green spaces provide good walking routes. Some local guides offer walking tours.

Cycling & Pedestrian Zones

  • Pedestrian-friendly areas in the city center and historical sites.
  • Limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure; caution advised on main roads.
  • Self-guided walks using maps are possible.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Look for yellow or green licensed taxis. Negotiate fare before travel or make sure meter use.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Snapp! And Tap30 are popular apps, similar to Uber, with fixed prices and safety features.

Fares & Payment

Fares are inexpensive; payment is always in cash (Rial/Toman). Have small denominations.

Navigation Tip

For short distances, consider shared taxis (savari). These operate on fixed routes, picking up multiple passengers. They are cheaper than private taxis but require some understanding of local routes.