Persepolis Iran Travel Guide
Spring (March to May) offers mild, pleasant temperatures, typically 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Sunny days and fresh air make this a highly regarded time for a visit. The surrounding plains also turn green, enhancing the scenery.
Autumn (September to November) has temperatures similar to spring, averaging 50°F to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). The summer heat subsides, contributing to pleasant sightseeing. The light conditions can be especially appealing for photography during autumn afternoons.
For any visit outside of winter, planning your exploration of Persepolis for the early morning or late afternoon avoids the powerful peak sun and large crowds. Photographers appreciate the softer light during these times.
If your main goal involves photography, aiming for sunrise or sunset visits (if official hours permit) offers spectacular views of the ancient constructions bathed in golden light. During Nowruz, the Persian New Year (late March), you will find a festive atmosphere, but prepare for increased visitor numbers and book accommodation well in advance.
March to May (including Nowruz)
Pleasant weather, beautiful landscape.
Larger crowds, higher prices for flights and accommodation.
September to November
Comfortable weather, fewer crowds than spring, good prices.
Shorter daylight hours in late autumn.
From june To august & December to February
Very few tourists, potentially lower prices.
Extreme heat in summer or cold in winter. Limited shade at the site.
Most foreign nationals require a visa for Iran. Options include Visa on Arrival (VOA) at international aerodromes for many countries (typically 30 days) or an E-Visa (pre-approved visa) obtained via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) website. Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada typically travel as part of an organized tour or with a government-approved guide, applying through a registered Iranian travel agency. This process may take several months.
Iran is generally safe for tourists, with low rates of violent crime. Petty crime may occur in crowded areas. Health there are facilities in major cities. Comprehensive travel insurance, explicitly covering Iran, is a strong consideration. Always ask a travel health professional for vaccination recommendations.
Valid for at least six months beyond your stay, with two blank pages.
Two recent passport-sized photos; women's photos require a headscarf.
Accurately completed online or in print.
Policy must state coverage for "Iran" or "Islamic The republic of Iran."
Needed for pre-approved visas from the Iranian MFA.
Planning your finances is a role for any trip to Iran, as the country operates mainly on a cash-only basis for tourists due to foreign sanctions.
The official currency is the Iranian Rial (IRR), but most prices and transactions occur in Tomans, where 1 Toman equals 10 Rials. Always clarify if a price is in Rials or Tomans. International credit and debit cards are not accepted, so bringing sufficient cash for your entire trip is a fundamental aspect. United States Dollars (USD) and Euros (EUR) are the most easily exchanged currencies at official exchange offices (Sarraafi) in major cities like Shiraz.
These estimates present a general guide. Your actual spending varies based on your choices and negotiation. Prices can fluctuate seasonally.
These daily cost estimates exclude international flights and provide a general guide based on travel style.
While Iran generally has a safe environment for tourists, preparing for common health considerations and understanding local good safety habits offers benefits.
No specific vaccinations are required unless arriving from a yellow fever risk country. Consult a travel health clinic for recommended routine and region-specific vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis A, Typhoid).
Traveler'traveler's diarrhea prevention: Drink bottled or purified water, eat well-cooked food. Carry Anti-diarrhea medication and rehydration salts. Heat exhaustion and sunburn are concerns in warm months; use High-SPF sunscreen and stay hydrated with Bottled water.
Major cities like Shiraz have healthcare facilities. Private hospitals generally offer better services. Pharmacies are common for minor ailments. Ambulance: 115.
Iran, including Shiraz and the Persepolis region, maintains a safe environment for tourists, with low rates of violent crime.
Petty crime, like pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas such as bustling bazaars. Taking normal precautions is advisable: keep valuables out of sight, consider a Money belt, and be aware of your surroundings.
Persepolis, an archaeological site, has no distinct neighborhood-specific safety risks. Iran is in an active seismic zone; while severe earthquakes are infrequent, minor tremors can occur. Stay informed about local news if any seismic activity is reported, though this is not a main concern for travelers.
Police: 110. Fire: 125.
A comprehensive travel insurance policy is highly recommended. Verify that your policy explicitly encompasses the "Islamic Republic of Iran," as many standard policies exclude it. Coverage for emergency medical treatment and evacuation holds particular importance.
Keep hard copies and electronic copies of your passport, visa, and insurance details separate from the originals. Leave copies with a trusted contact at home.
Register your trip with your country''s foreign office in Tehran. This enables them to contact you in case of an emergency or crisis. Report lost passports/visas to local police immediately, then contact your embassy.
It is generally not advisable for tourists to consume tap water in Iran. Prioritize sealed bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive. Always check that the seal is unbroken.
Iran is generally considered safe for tourists. Petty crime is the main concern.
Violent crime against tourists is rare. Iranians are generally welcoming and hospitable.
Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas like bazaars. Practice normal precautions.
Iran is in an active seismic zone. Be aware of local news, but it's generally not a main concern for travelers.
Carry a small, well-stocked Travel first aid kit with basic pain relievers (Ibuprofen, paracetamol), cleansing wipes, and any personal medications.
