Mashhad Razavi Khorasan, Iran Travel Guide
Mashhad's climate patterns guide the most comfortable travel periods. Spring and autumn present mild temperatures, ideal for sightseeing. Summers bring intense heat, while the cold season is cold covered in snow.
Visit between high and low seasons (autumn) offers pleasant weather with fewer visitors compared to spring's peak.
Spring (high season) has ideal weather but larger crowds and higher prices. Autumn (shoulder season) retains pleasant weather with fewer visitors. Summer and winter (low seasons) present fewer tourists and potentially lower prices, though with extreme temperatures.
Dust storms sometimes happen, especially in spring and summer, temporarily reducing visibility and air quality.
Ideal weather, large crowds
Perfect for sightseeing and exploration.
Higher costs, longer queues, book well in advance.
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Good weather, moderate prices, quieter attractions.
Variable temperatures, pack layers.
Extreme temperatures, lowest prices
Fewer tourists, lower costs.
Intense heat or cold, limited outdoor activities.
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) present the most comfortable weather for exploring the city and its historical sites.
Spring and the beginning of autumn offer the finest conditions for enjoying Mashhad's outdoor spaces and excursions to the surrounding areas.
Any time of year is suitable for religious purposes.
Major religious holidays bring immense crowds and spiritual experiences.
Plan activities for early mornings or evenings to cope with high temperatures.
Expect cool temperatures, snow, and potential trip interruptions.
Entry rules change based on your nationality and reason for travel. Check current regulations before your trip.
Most visitors obtain an authorization code from the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) via a travel agency or host before submitting their application.
Citizens from the US, UK, and Canada must travel as part of an organized tour with an authorized guide throughout their trip. The visa process for these nationalities is more stringent.
Visa charges vary by nationality and type. Pay fees at the embassy, consulate, or upon arrival for VOA. Provide your passport and visa to immigration officials upon arrival.
Iran's financial system differs from many Occidental nations, especially regarding card payments. Cash is the main payment method.
The official currency is the Iranian Rial (IRR), but transactions occur in "Toman" (1 Toman = 10 Rials). Clarify the unit for prices. Exchange offices (Sarrafi) typically present better rates than banks for USD and EUR.
International credit and debit cards are generally NOT accepted in Iran due to sanctions. Travelers depend on cash for nearly all transactions.
For those seeking to maximize their experience on a tighter budget.
Daily cost: $30-$65
Accommodation: Hostel/Guesthouse $15-$30
A comfortable journey with a balance of cost and amenities.
Daily cost: $80-$155
Accommodation: 3-4 star hotel $40-$80
Indulge in premium experiences and services throughout your stay.
Daily cost: $195-$520+
Accommodation: 5-star hotel $100-$300+
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15-$30 | $40-$80 |
| Meals | $10-$20 | $25-$40 |
| Transportation | $5-$10 | $10-$20 |
Needed if arriving from a country with risk.
Consult doctor for routine shots, Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid.
Stay hydrated, wear light clothing in summer.
Drink Bottled water to avoid stomach upset.
Tap water is generally safe, but bottled alternatives reduce gastric distress for travelers. Eat well-cooked food, peel fruits, and wash hands.
Mashhad's air quality sometimes faces impacts from pollution or dust storms, consider a mask if sensitive.
Prevent traveler's diarrhea by selecting fresh, hot meals and avoiding ice.
Mashhad has open to all and exclusive hospitals; quality varies.
Widely available, offer basic advice and OTC medication.
Police: 110, Ambulance: 115, Fire: 125.
Mashhad generally has a safe environment with low violent crime. Petty crime occurs in crowded tourist areas.
Travel insurance is highly advisable. Your policy must cover medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
Verify your policy explicitly covers travel to Iran; some standard policies exclude it.
You sometimes need specialized policies for Iran due to international sanctions.
Store your policy number and emergency contact details for immediate access.
