Iran
Spring (March to May): This period has mild and pleasant weather. Daytime temperatures generally range from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F). Nights remain comfortable. Precipitation is low, with clear skies dominating. This season is widely considered the best for sightseeing due to comfortable temperatures. The desert flowers may also bloom in early spring, adding a touch of color to the landscape.
Autumn (September to November): Similar to spring, autumn brings mild and pleasant conditions. Temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F). Low precipitation and clear skies are common. This season is highly recommended for outdoor activities and exploring the city comfortably. The light can be especially beautiful for photography during this time.
Sightseeing and Exploring the Old City: Spring and Autumn are ideal. The comfortable temperatures mean extended walks through the labyrinthine alleys and visits to the many historical sites without discomfort.
Desert Tours and Camel Riding: Best in Spring and Autumn. The heat of summer makes desert excursions challenging and less enjoyable. Winter desert trips are beautiful but call for warm clothing for the cold nights. Photography: Early mornings and late afternoons in Spring and Autumn provide the best light for capturing the mudbrick architecture and intricate details of the city. The softer light enhances the textures and colors of Yazd's unique buildings.
March-May, Sep-Nov
Ideal weather for sightseeing, walking, and desert excursions. City becomes alive with local festivities.
Higher prices for accommodations and tours. More crowded attractions. Securing reservations calls for early booking, especially during Nowruz.
Late Feb, Early Dec
Fewer tourists, a more relaxed experience, and potentially lower prices for accommodation. Weather still pleasant.
Weather can be changeable (colder days or unexpected warmth). Some tourist services might operate on reduced schedules.
June-Aug, Dec-Jan
Significant discounts on accommodation and tours. Very few other tourists, creating a quieter, more personal experience.
Extreme heat in summer limits daytime activities. Cold winters, especially at night, make outdoor activities less appealing. Some desert tours might be less frequent.
Visa on Arrival (VOA): Available at major international airports, including Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) in Tehran, for citizens of many countries. This is typically a 30-day tourist visa. You often need a visa reference number (also called an authorization code) obtained in advance from an Iranian travel agency or through an online application process. While possible, applying for a VOA without this code leads to delays or refusal. Check the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) Iran website for the most current list of eligible countries. You can find services like IVisa or VisaHQ to assist with this process. E-Visa: Iran has an e-visa portal. While you can apply online, the process often still calls for picking up the visa stamp at an Iranian embassy, consulate, or a designated airport upon arrival. The online application streamlines initial steps but usually does not create a fully digital visa. Standard Tourist Visa: Apply through an Iranian embassy or consulate in your home country. This typically needs an authorization code issued by the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). You usually obtain this code through a licensed Iranian travel agency. Specific Nationalities (e.g., USA, UK, Canada): Citizens of these countries face more stringent requirements. They generally travel as part of an organized tour or with a certified, approved guide for their entire trip. Their visa applications take extensive processing, typically through a specialized Iranian travel agency, and must be submitted well in advance. Direct applications at embassies typically do not succeed for these nationalities. This policy changes, so verify before planning.
Valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. No Israeli stamps or visas.
Recent passport-sized photos. Women often wear a headscarf in the photo.
Complete form accurately.
Mandatory. Policy must specifically state coverage for Iran. See World Nomads or SafetyWing for options.
Proof of accommodation and flight itinerary.
Iran's financial system differs from many Western countries due to international sanctions.
The official currency of Iran is the Iranian Rial (IRR). Prices are very often quoted in Tomans in daily transactions, rather than Rials (One Toman equals 10 Rials). International credit and debit cards generally do not work in Iran due to sanctions. You must carry sufficient physical cash for your entire trip. US Dollars (USD) and Euros (EUR) are the most widely accepted and easiest currencies to exchange. Bring crisp, new bills.
These estimates provide a general idea; actual costs depend on your spending habits and negotiation skills.
Yazd is generally a very safe city for tourists with low crime rates. Iranians are known for their hospitality.
Accommodation (per night for a double room): Hostel dorm: 500,000 - 1,200,000 IRR (50,000 - 120,000 Tomans) or roughly €10-€25. Traditional guesthouse/2-3 star hotel: 1,500,000 - 3,500,000 IRR (150,000 - 350,000 Tomans) or roughly €30-€70. Luxury traditional hotel: 4,000,000 - 8,000,000+ IRR (400,000 - 800,000+ Tomans) or roughly €80-€160+.
Meals (per person): Street food/local snack: 50,000 - 150,000 IRR (5,000 - 15,000 Tomans) or roughly €1-€3. Mid-range restaurant meal: 250,000 - 750,000 IRR (25,000 - 75,000 Tomans) or roughly €5-€15. Fine dining meal: 1,000,000 - 2,500,000 IRR (100,000 - 250,000 Tomans) or roughly €20-€50.
Always agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey, especially for street-hailed taxis. This avoids misunderstandings upon arrival. Use Snapp (ride-sharing app) for transparent pricing.
Clarity on pricing.
Avoids overcharging.
Seek out smaller, local restaurants and street food stalls. These offer more authentic flavors at a fraction of the cost of tourist-focused establishments. Look for places busy with locals.
Authentic culinary experiences.
Significant cost savings.
Since international cards do not work, bringing sufficient cash in USD or EUR is important. Exchange money at official Sarafis for better rates. Avoid carrying all your cash in one place; divide it and keep some in a secure Money belt or hidden pouch.
Financial readiness.
Enhanced security.
| Category | Price Range (IRR) | Equivalent (Tomans) |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel Dorm Bed | 500,000 - 1,200,000 | 50,000 - 120,000 |
| Mid-range Restaurant Meal | 250,000 - 750,000 | 25,000 - 75,000 |
| Local Taxi (short ride) | 100,000 - 300,000 | 10,000 - 30,000 |
Iran is generally a safe country for tourists, but awareness of local conditions is helpful.
No specific vaccinations are officially required for entry. Consult a travel doctor for routine (MMR, Tetanus) and region-specific (Hepatitis A, Typhoid) recommendations.
Tap water in Yazd is generally not safe for consumption by foreign visitors. Always stick to sealed bottled water. Exercise caution with street food; opt for freshly cooked, hot meals from reputable places.
Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours (10 AM - 4 PM) to prevent heat exhaustion/stroke. Use high SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
Hospitals and Pharmacies
Yazd has several well-equipped hospitals, including Shahid Sadoughi Hospital and Afshar Hospital. For minor issues, local clinics and private doctors are available. Pharmacies are widely available throughout the city, often marked with a green cross sign. Many pharmacists have some English language skills.
Bring any required prescription medications from home in original packaging with a doctor's note.
Emergency Numbers: Police: 110, Ambulance: 115, Fire Department: 125.
Yazd is generally considered a very safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. Iranians are known for their hospitality.
Instances of pickpocketing or bag snatching are rare but occur in crowded areas like the bazaar. Take standard precautions: keep valuables secure, avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
No specific neighborhoods in Yazd are known for high crime rates. The Old City, with its narrow alleys and close-knit community, is notably safe for walking, even at night.
Iran is located in an active seismic zone.
Travel insurance is mandatory for your visa application and entry into Iran.
Ensure your policy covers medical emergencies, including hospitalization and emergency medical evacuation. Also consider coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, and lost luggage.
Crucially, confirm that your specific policy wording states coverage for travel to Iran, as many standard international policies explicitly exclude it due to geopolitical considerations.
Reputable providers (e.g., SafetyWing, or those specializing in "adventure travel" insurance) might offer suitable policies. Always verify current country exclusions and coverage details before purchasing. Check Insubuy for more options.
