Markazi Iran Travel Guide
Hot, dry summers with average highs of 30-35°C (86-95°F), sometimes over 40°C (104°F). Dry air, but sun contact needs attention.
Mornings and evenings offer milder temperatures for outdoor activities.
Intense midday sun limits outdoor activity, necessitating shade and hydration.
Cold, snowy winters with average highs of 0-10°C (32-50°F). Night temperatures often drop below freezing.
The city becomes a beautiful winter environment with significant snowfall possible.
Heavy snowfall may close roads and cause travel delays; additional journey time helps.
Mild and pleasant during spring (15-25°C) and autumn (15-25°C). Ideal for comfortable exploration.
Weather conditions suit sightseeing, hiking, and general outdoor engagement.
Nowruz (late March/early April) brings significant price increases and many domestic travelers.
Spring (April-May) and the beginning of autumn (September-October) have the most pleasant weather, suited for sightseeing and city exploration.
Late autumn (November) and the beginning of spring (March) bring cooler moderate temps and less congestion, resulting in lower prices.
Comfortable weather, atmosphere.
More temperate weather, fewer tourists, unique visual experiences.
Fewest tourists, best prices, experience local living at a slower pace.
Unique snowy views, lowest prices for trips and stay.
Summer extreme heat; winter cold and snow.
Most foreign nationalities need a tourist visa, and the application procedure varies by country of origin.
Most foreign visitors need a tourist visa, usually issued for 30 days and extendable within Iran. The initial step is obtaining an authorization code from the Iranian State department (MFA) via a certified Iranian travel agency or sometimes directly.
A group of specific documents aids your visa application and entry process.
Visa application costs vary by nationality and visa type, payable upon application or arrival (for VOA). Immigration processes upon arrival include standard passport control; expect potential fingerprinting and a longer process than in some other countries.
Iran is very dependent on cash transactions due to international sanctions, making preparedness .
The official currency is the Iranian Rial (IRR), but prices frequently seem in Toman (1 Toman = 10 Rials). Always clarify if a price is in Rials or Tomans. Exchange currency at official exchange offices (Sarrafi) or banks. Avoid street money changers.
International credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) have no acceptance in Iran. Cash is needed for almost all transactions. Prepaid travel cards are an option from particular Iranian banks for tourists. Load these cards with foreign currency upon arrival for domestic use.
Ideal for people with backpacks and those seeking minimal costs.
Accommodation: Guesthouses, hostels (€10-€20/night).
Luxury experiences might exceed budget.
Comfort without excessive spending.
Accommodation: Mid-range hotels (€30-€60/night).
Dining: Fine meal expenses extra.
Premium services and experiences.
Accommodation: High-end hotels (€70+/night).
Budget restraints: Unrestricted spending is possible.
| Travel Style | Accommodation (per night) | Meals (per day) | Local Transportation (per day) | Attractions (per day) | Full Day's Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | €10-€20 | €10-€20 | €5-€10 | €5-€10 | €30-€60 (approx. $32-$65 USD) |
| Mid-range | €30-€60 | €20-€40 | €10-€20 | €10-€20 | €70-€120 (approx. $75-$130 USD) |
| Luxury | €70+ | €50+ | €30+ | €20+ | €150+ (approx. $160+ USD) |
None, unless arriving from a yellow fever a country with risk.
Consult a travel doctor 4-6 weeks before for personalized advice (Hepatitis A&B, Typhoid, routine).
Drink bottled water. Avoid raw salads/fruits with the skin on in questionable hygiene establishments. Food cooked thoroughly and served hot.
Hospitals: Arak has hospitals like Taleghani and Imam Khomeini. These facilities offer general and specialized care.
Pharmacies are widely available, common medications found. Bring generic names for prescriptions. Quality of care varies; major city hospitals offer decent care but may not meet Western standards. Payment must be upfront cash.
Emergency Numbers: Ambulance: 115, Fire: 125, Police: 110.
Affiliate: Adventure Medical Kits for first aid supplies.
Arak summers are warm and dry. Drink plenty of bottled water. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
The sun can be intense. Use high SPF sunscreen. Wear hats and sunglasses, especially when outdoors for extended periods.
Tap water quality varies. Bottled water is widely available and recommended for travelers to avoid potential digestive issues. Consider LifeStraw for rural areas.
Arak generally has consideration as a safe city for tourists. Crime rates remain low. Petty crime, like pickpocketing or bag snatching, is rare but possible in crowded areas like the bazaar. No distinct districts are known for high crime rates. Apply standard precautions: watch your belongings, especially in busy places, and remain aware of your surroundings.
Iran lies in an active seismic zone; minor tremors are possible. Familiarity with basic earthquake safety procedures (drop, cover, hold on) is a great choice. Seasonal hazards include extreme heat in summer, needing careful management of outdoor activities, and significant snowfall/ice in winter, that might impact travel. Stay updated on local weather plus road quality.
Active seismic zone. Drop, cover, plus hold tight during tremors.
Extreme heat outdoors needs careful management. Hydrate well.
Significant snowfall and ice may impact travel. Check road updates.
