Day Trips from Mashhad. Excursions, Nearby Cities, Tours

Explore Mashhad's Surroundings

Accessible locations within day-trip distance:

Tus (Toos): Roughly THIRTY km northwest of Mashhad. This ancient city houses Ferdowsi's Mausoleum and historical city ruins. Shandiz and Torqabeh: These resort towns sit in the highlands, about 20-30 km west of Mashhad, celebrated for their pleasant climate, traditional restaurants, and handicrafts. Kang Village: Known as the 'Masouleh of Khorasan' for its stepped architecture, it lies about 50 km southwest of Mashhad, near Torqabeh.

Getting There & Planning Your Visit

Tus: Journey by taxi, using the Snapp app, or an organized tour. Plan a half-day trip to Ferdowsi's Mausoleum and historical sites.
Shandiz/Torqabeh: Shared taxis (Savari), private taxis, Snapp, or local buses. Dedicate a half-day to a full-day trip for scenery and traditional lunch.
Kang Village: Best by private taxi or a tour. Allow 2-3 hours for exploration, commonly put together with Torqabeh.
For planned excursions and day trips, discover and book experiences on GetYourGuide's platform for a seamless adventure.

Natural Escapes & Cultural Sites

The region around Mashhad has scenic beauty, opportunities to connect with nature, alongside historical sites.

Natural Escapes

The mountainous regions surrounding Mashhad, including Binalood and Hezar Masjed, present settings for scenic drives and hikes. Chahartagh Waterfall is a small waterfall near Shandiz.

Scenic Highlights

Mountainous rural zones surrounding Mashhad are open for scenic drives and going to see villages.
Witness spring blossoms in rural areas.
Mountains become covered in snow during winter, offering distinct beauty.

Scenic Landscapes

Explore the valleys and hills leading to Shandiz, Torqabeh, and Kang for scenic views.

Explore the Outdoors

Accessible mountain trails for hiking enthusiasts.
Chahartagh Waterfall near Shandiz has a small, refreshing stop.
Rural areas come alive with spring blossoms.

Cultural Excursions

Historical Sites Nearby

Haruniyeh Dome: An ancient structure in Tus, believed to be a school or caravanserai.
Mazare-Sheikh Attar (Nishapur): The tomb of the celebrated Persian poet Attar of Nishapur.
Ghadamgah of Imam Reza: A site believed to be where Imam Reza rested, near Nishapur.
Nishapur (120 km west) has a longer day trip for turquoise and history.

Rural Village Life

Kang Village: Offers a view into traditional stepped village life.
Saffron and barberry fields exist in agricultural areas more to the south, seasonal attractions.
Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially women. Strict restrictions apply at sensitive sites.
Drones require special permits. Operating without one might bring about severe consequences.

Multi-Day Extension Overview

Nishapur: Plan 1-2 days for historical sites, tombs, and turquoise mines.Cultural Immersion
Gorgan & Golestan National Park: 2-3 days for Caspian Sea region's landscapes and eco-tourism.Nature Getaway
Logical Next Destinations: Tehran, Isfahan/Shiraz, Yazd.Further Journey
Transportation Connections: Flights, trains, and buses link Mashhad to major Iranian cities.Easy Travel

Suggested Route 1: Mashhad -> Nishapur -> Sabzevar -> Shahroud (for desert exploration) -> Tehran.Desert to Capital
Suggested Route 2: Mashhad -> (flight) -> Isfahan -> Yazd -> Shiraz.Classical Iran
Ethical Tour Operators: Consider G Adventures for responsible group travel.Guided Exploration
Book local experiences for your weekend journey on GetYourGuide.Hassle-Free Booking

Smart Travel Advice

Planning longer journeys calls for booking flights and train tickets well in advance, especially during peak travel times.

Experience More of Khorasan

Dive into the cultural and natural heritage of the Razavi Khorasan Province with these extended options.

Nishapur Extension

A journey to Nishapur reveals historical depths. Visit the tombs of Omar Khayyam, Attar, and Kamal-ol-Molk, and explore turquoise mines.

Golestan National Park

Travel northwest towards the Caspian Sea region for diverse landscapes and eco-tourism experiences over 2-3 days.

Historical Routes

Explore Mashhad, Nishapur, Sabzevar, Shahroud (desert), and Tehran for a comprehensive regional experience.

Adventure Tours

For organized, ethical group travel, consider options with specialized operators.

Guided Expeditions

Group tours with G Adventures offer responsible tourism experiences.
Curated itineraries explore cultural and natural highlights.
Community-focused help with travels local economies.

Nishapur & Golestan Highlights

These places offer a dive into Iran's history, culture, and nature.

Explore Further

Nishapur: Visit Omar Khayyam's tomb, Attar's tomb, and Kamal-ol-Molk's tomb.
Nishapur: Explore its famous turquoise mines.
Golestan National Park: Experience varied landscapes and eco-tourism.

Detailed Multi-Day Options

Nishapur (1-2 days)Tombs of Khayyam, Attar, Kamal-ol-Molk; turquoise mines.

Gorgan & Golestan (2-3 days)Caspian Sea region, diverse landscapes, eco-tourism.

TehranReach via overnight train or domestic flight.

Isfahan/ShirazAccess via domestic flight for cultural discovery.

YazdTravel by train or bus for arid architecture.

Longer Regional TravelMashhad -> Nishapur -> Sabzevar -> Shahroud (desert) -> Tehran.

Responsible Travel Choice

Choosing ethical tour operators supports local communities.
Consider tours that emphasize cultural sensitivity and environmental care.
Research local initiatives for constructive contributions.
Explore sustainable accommodation options for a greener journey.
Engage with local guides for authentic experiences.

Further Exploration Awaits

Further than the close highlights, Mashhad's region holds further attractions for those with extra time and an adventurous spirit.

Desert Adventures

The vast deserts of Iran present unique landscapes and cultural experiences for multi-day extensions.

Shahroud & Kavir

Shahroud is a gateway for desert exploration.
Experience traditional caravanserai stays.
Stargazing in the clear desert nights.

Northern Shores

The Caspian Sea region offers a different climate and lush scenery contrasted with Mashhad's arid surroundings.

Gorgan & Mazandaran

Lush forests and coastal areas near Gorgan.
Unique architecture and local cuisine in northern provinces.
Caspian Sea activities and fishing villages.

Ancient Civilizations

Iran's ancient history stretches far beyond its popular sites, with countless archaeological wonders.

Beyond Persepolis

Discover lesser-known archaeological sites across Khorasan.
Follow ancient trade routes and historical paths.
Museums outside Mashhad curate regional artifacts.

Local Crafts & Markets

Broaden your cultural experience by exploring local artisan workshops plus busy traditional markets.

Handicraft Hubs

Visit local workshops for traditional crafts.
Find authentic turquoise jewelry and carvings.
Observe traditional rug weaving and pottery making.

Unique Regional Experiences

From cultural festivals to secluded natural wonders, the Mashhad region offers unique activities.

Local Festivals

Witness traditional celebrations unique to Khorasan Province.

Seasonal Harvests

Experience saffron or barberry harvests in rural areas.

Mountain Retreats

Discover tranquil villages tucked away in the Binalood mountains.

Day Trips from Mashhad