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Getting Around Mashhad

Getting Around Mashhad

Mashhad Razavi Khorasan, Iran Travel Guide

Public Transit Overview

Mashhad's public transit system includes a metro and an extensive bus network. Line 1 of the metro is notably useful for visitors, connecting the airport, city center, and the Imam Reza Shrine.

The Mashhad Citizen Card serves as a convenient electronic payment way of both metro and buses.

Transit Systems & Tickets

  • Metro: Two operational lines, Line 1 reaches airport and Shrine area.
  • Buses: Extensive network, including BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) with lanes for specific use.
  • Mashhad Citizen Card: Rechargeable card for metro and buses, very inexpensive fares.
  • Hours: Metro functions from early morning (6:00 AM) to late evening (9:30-10:00 PM).

Route Clarity

Maps are available at stations, mainly in Persian. Navigation apps assist with routes.

Peak Travel

Expect crowded conditions on public transport during major pilgrimage times.

Accessibility

Newer train stations offer elevators and wheelchair ramps, but overall access is sometimes limited.

Tips for Efficient Navigation

Payment & Information
  • Purchase a Mashhad Citizen Card for ease of payment.
  • Use local navigation apps like Balad or Neshan for bus routes.
  • Ask hotel staff for directions or public transport advice.
Rush Hour & Awareness
  • Avoid public transport during peak pilgrimage times if possible.
  • Many attractions, especially near the Shrine, are within walking distance.
  • Basic Persian phrases for transport help a lot.

Important Hubs for Public Transit

Shohada Square

Close to Imam Reza Shrine, a major metro hub.

Mellat Park

A metro station and public gathering area.

Vakilabad

Western end of Metro Line 1, a transit point.

Airport MHD

Direct metro connection to downtown.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps present convenient and often faster alternatives to public transport. They are especially useful for direct routes or when carrying luggage.

Taxi Options & Hailing

  • Official yellow/green taxis: hail on street, agree on fare.
  • Telephone Taxis ("Agency Taxis"): Book via hotels, more reliable.
  • Shared Taxis ("Savari"): Common on fixed routes, very affordable but sometimes confusing.
  • Payment in cash (Rials/Toman) only; fares are inexpensive by international standards.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Snapp: Most popular ride-sharing app, similar to Uber, English interface available.
  • Tap30: A different popular option.
  • Requires an Iranian SIM card for use.
  • Offers fixed prices, convenience, and safety elements like route tracking.

Safety Considerations for Taxis

  • Licensed taxis and agency taxis are generally safe.
  • Ride-sharing apps include driver and car details for verification.
  • Clearly state your destination to the driver.
  • Be more cautious with hailed taxis, particularly late at night.
  • Use navigation apps to follow your route.
  • Consider sharing your trip details with a trusted contact.

Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements

Dedicated Stands

Available at the airport and major train or bus stations.

Fixed Prices

Sometimes offered for rides to central areas; confirm upfront.

Ride-Sharing Pickups

Ride-sharing apps also operate from these transport hubs.

Rental Options

Rental options in Mashhad are limited, especially for foreign tourists seeking cars or motorcycles. Mass transit and ride-sharing are more common.

Car Rental

  • Local Iranian rental companies operate; international chains are absent.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) with home country license is necessary.
  • Car rental often needs a large deposit or a guarantor.
  • Self-driving is generally not recommended for tourists.

Motorcycle & Bicycle Rentals

  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are not common for tourists.
  • Bike-share programs are limited, mostly within parks.
  • Cycling in urban traffic can sometimes be hazardous due to aggressive driving.
  • Not widespread for general moving through the city.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Traffic Rules

Traffic drives on the right-hand side. Speed limits are often disregarded.

Pedestrians do not always have absolute right of way.

Road Quality

Major intercity roads are generally well-maintained.

City roads sometimes experience congestion.

Parking

Parking is sometimes challenging in downtown areas, especially near the Shrine.

Parking garages are available in various locations.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Areas
  • Imam Reza Shrine complex is mainly pedestrian-friendly.
  • Bazaars are often pedestrian-heavy areas.
  • Mellwithin The park and Koohsangi Park offer enjoyable walking paths.
Cycling & Safety
  • Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited.
  • Cycling in city traffic has hazards.
  • Avoid main arterial roads with a lot of traffic for walking leisurely or riding a bike.

Specialized Transportation

  • Tour buses or hop-on-hop-hoho services are not available common for individual travelers.
  • Boat taxis or water transportation are not applicable in this not on the coast city.
  • Overall accessibility for travelers with mobility needs is limited.
  • Koohsangi Features of the park a cable car offering city views.
  • Recreational areas like Shandiz/Torqabeh sometimes have chairlift facilities.
  • Newer buildings and underground stations may feature better accessibility.

Transport Summary

Mashhad's public transit offers inexpensive and wide-ranging city traversal. Taxis and ride-sharing apps provide convenient direct routes.

Consider your comfort with local road conditions if contemplating car rental, as it's often not advised for foreign visitors.