Getting Around: Tehran

Public Transportation Overview

The Tehran Metro is an extensive, efficient, and clean subway system. It is the most advised way for tourists to navigate the city, especially during peak traffic periods.

The metro includes multiple lines covering most major areas and attractions. Tehran also features a vast bus network, including the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system with dedicated lanes and regular city buses.

Features

Metro: Extensive, efficient, clean, covering major areas.
Buses: Vast network, including BRT with dedicated lanes.
Fares are extremely affordable, often less than $0.50 per ride.
Metro operates from early morning (around 5:30 AM) until late evening (around 10:30 PM-11:00 PM).

Metro Navigation

Metro maps are present at stations and online. Important interchange stations include Imam Khomeini Square, Darvazeh Dowlat, and Teatr-e Shahr.

Ticketing System

A Tehran Card (electronic ticket card) is advised for both metro and bus. Purchase and recharge at metro stations for convenience.

Accessibility Notes

Public transportation in Tehran, especially the metro, has limited accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges. Many stations lack elevators or ramps.

Metro Travel Tips

Efficient Riding

Avoid Peak Hours: Metro can be extremely crowded during rush hours (morning and late afternoon).
Women-Only Carriages: First and last carriages of metro trains cater to women, though women can choose mixed carriages.
Learn Station Names: Familiarize yourself with Farsi names of frequently used stations for ease.

Navigation Aids

Use Offline Maps: Download Tehran metro maps for offline use on your phone.
Recharge your Tehran Card sufficiently to avoid running out of credit during travel.
Utilize translation apps for Farsi terms to aid in understanding announcements.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Services

Licensed Taxis

Yellow or green taxis are licensed. Hail them on the street or find them at designated stands.

Shared Taxis

Savari (shared taxis) are common for specific routes, picking up multiple passengers. Confirm fare first.

Ride-Hailing

Snapp and Tapsi are popular apps, similar to Uber. Highly advised for convenience and fixed pricing.

Payment

Cash (Rials or Tomans) is the only accepted payment method for all taxi services.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing Details

Taxis provide direct transport, and ride-sharing apps present convenience and pricing transparency.

Hailing & Identification

Licensed taxis are yellow or green; wave to stop one on the street.
For street taxis, always agree on the fare before starting your journey, as meters are rarely used.
Ride-hailing apps like Snapp and Tapsi display driver details and pricing upfront, removing negotiation.
Ensure the license plate matches the app's information for ride-hailing services.

Typical Fares & Payment

Short rides within a neighborhood typically cost $1-3.
Longer rides are generally priced between $3-8.
Cash (Rials or Tomans) is the exclusive payment method for all taxi and ride-hailing services.
Ride-hailing apps are often cheaper and more reliable than traditional street taxis.

Taxi Safety & Security

Ride-sharing apps are generally safer due to tracked rides and registered details.
User ratings and reviews on apps can guide your choice of driver.
Share your ride details with someone for added security.

Street taxis offer less accountability; price agreement beforehand holds importance.
Have local emergency numbers (Police: 110) ready.
Be wary of unsolicited offers from strangers near transport hubs.

Vehicle Rental Considerations

Car Rentals

Car rental through local agencies is possible but unadvisable for tourists due to challenging driving conditions.

Motorcycles & Scooters

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are not typically available or advised for tourists in Tehran's traffic.

Bicycle Rentals

Tehran is not bicycle-friendly; infrastructure remains limited. Rentals are not widely available for tourists outside of parks.

Driving Laws & Private Transport

Driving in Tehran can be chaotic.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Iranian driving laws exist but are often loosely observed by local drivers.
Major roads are generally well-maintained, but city traffic is frequently heavy.
Finding parking can be very difficult and costly in central Tehran areas.
Road safety remains a concern due to high accident rates and frequent disregard for speed limits.

Private Driver Service

Arranging private drivers through hotels or reputable travel agencies presents a comfortable alternative.
This option enables flexible day trips and longer tours, exploring areas beyond central Tehran.
Private drivers, while more expensive, remove navigation stress and offer local knowledge.
Consider this for a more relaxed and tailored exploration experience.

Walking & Cycling Around

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Laleh Park, Mellat Park, and Jamshidieh Park feature pleasant walking environments.

Historical districts around Golestan Palace and Grand Bazaar are best on foot.
Tabiat Bridge is ideal for leisurely strolls and city views.

Walking Tours

Local tour operators sometimes present guided walking tours focusing on history, food, or specific neighborhoods.

Self-guided walks using offline maps and translation apps are also possible.

Cycling Environment

Tehran's urban layout and heavy traffic do not make it a very bicycle-friendly city for tourists.

Dedicated bike lanes are rare outside of some parks.
Heavy traffic areas and major multi-lane roads are generally unsafe for cyclists.

Specialized Transport & Accessibility

Unique Local Transport

Tochal Telecabin: A long cable car system ascends Tochal Mountain, displaying stunning city views and access to hiking/skiing.
Tour buses or hop-on-hop-off services are not widely present in typical Western style.
Boat taxis and water transportation are not applicable as Tehran is landlocked.

Accessibility Services

Tehran's infrastructure presents significant challenges for travelers with mobility needs.
Public transport has limited accessibility, and pavements can be uneven. Accessible hotels are rare.
Planning with a specialized tour operator is advised for travelers with disabilities to support smooth arrangements.

Navigating Tehran

Tehran's public transit, especially the metro, stands out as an efficient and affordable way to explore.

Embrace ride-hailing apps for direct journeys, and remember to always carry local currency.

Getting Around Tehran