Shiraz, Iran's cultural capital, is a colorful mosaic of its past, renowned for its beauty, history, and poetry. During the 4 millennia of its existence, the region has borne witness to the rise and destruction of the Great Persian Empire, ever-changing dynasties, and the flourishing of Islam. All throughout Shiraz, you will find reminders of the events and people that helped shaped Iranian culture, in architecture, shrines, and ruins.

Good To Know

• Getting There: Fly directly into Shiraz from the major airports in the region, such as Istanbul or Dubai. If you're already in the country, take the train from Tehran or the busses from other Iranian cities.
• Getting Around: While most places you will want to visit can be reached by minibus, taxis are cheap and often more convenient. Hailing taxis from the street is fine, but if you're worried about unlicensed drivers, request a cab via the Snapp App. Be sure to discuss the fare beforehand to avoid paying inflated prices.
• When to Visit: During the summer months (June-August), the temperatures in Shiraz hover around the 30°C (85°F) mark. We recommend avoiding the hottest months, as especially the historic sights of Persepolis and Pasargadae offer no shade and sightseeing can quickly turn into a grueling task. Instead, visit during April/May or September/October.
• How Long to Visit: A 5 to 10 day trip is enough to see all the major sights with plenty of time to spare to experience the people, culture, and food.
• Who Should Visit: Shiraz is a great destination for anyone interested in Persian culture and history. The locals are very friendly and will want to help you make your trip as memorable as possible.
• Where to Stay: Stay close to the city center (i.e. between Karim Khan Citadel and the Qur'an Gate). All major sights are within walking distance from here. Booking a hotel in Iran can be a convoluted process. Use www.1StQuest.com for a straightforward booking experience similar to that of other large booking sites.
• Important: Shiraz is generally a very safe travel destination, but be sure to follow Iranian Dress Codes and customs.

Highlights

Historic Sites of Ancient Persia

When in Shiraz, you can't miss out on visiting the ruins of Ancient Persepolis. Founded by King Darius the Great in the 6th century BC, Persepolis became the ceremonial capital city of the Achaemenid Empire, the first and largest of the Persian empires. After almost 300 years of not only being a ceremonial but also a cultural capital, Persepolis was burnt down and destroyed by none other than Alexander the Great marking the conquest of the Achaemenid Empire. What survived of Persepolis "ranks among the archaeological sites which have no equivalent" according to UNESCO. Begin your journey through the ruins at the Great Double Staircase that leads to the large, partially man-made terrace the city was built upon. The Gate of All Nations finally welcomes you into the grand hall of Persepolis. To its west lie the remains of the cities largest palace, the Apadana, built by Darius the Great and later his son Xerxes I soon after the founding of the city. Surrounding the complex are a series of tombs belonging to the Persian Kings. The tombs of Artaxerxes II and III are carved into rock walls directly behind the terraces, while those of Darius the Great, Xerxes I, and Darius II can be found in the Naqsh-e Rostam Necropolis about 12 km (7.5 miles) away from the site. In the middle of both sights lie the limestone reliefs of Nashq-e Rajab dating back to the early Sassanid Era around 270 AD. The predecessor to Persepolis was the city of Pasargadae just 90 km (32 miles) from Shiraz. It most famously is where the Tomb of Cyrus the Great, the Persian Empires' first king is located. He conquered most territories in the Near East, with the kingdom spanning from Turkey to Pakistan under his rule.

Persian Gardens

Part of Shiraz's undeniable beauty comes from the serene Persian gardens that are sprinkled throughout the city. These public parks are usually centered around artificial waterways leading up to a historical mansion and adorned with flowers and greenery. Take a stroll through the Persian Gardens, especially after a long day of sightseeing, to calm down and regain your energy. The most famous Persian Garden in Shiraz is Eram Garden, which dates back to the Seljuk era in the 12th century AD. Eram means heaven or paradise and the lush gardens certainly live up to their name. While you should not skip Eram, it can get quite crowded. Visit Jahan Nama Garden, which overlooks the entire city, and Delgosha Garden as great alternatives to Eram.

Tombs of Hafez and Saadi

13th and 14th century Shiraz was the hometown of Hafez and Saadi, who are widely regarded as Persia's greatest poets. Large tombs surrounded by gardens were constructed that serve as beloved monuments, visited by local poetry enthusiasts and tourists alike. Similar to the Persian Gardens, they offer a sanctuary from the bustling city life. Find a nice spot, perhaps on the steps leading up to Saadi's Tomb, read their poems, and immerse yourself a little bit deeper in the culture.

Mosques

At the zenith of Shiraz's art and architecture stand the city's mosques. From the outside Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, also known as the Pink Mosque, is decorated with intricate mosaics in blues, pinks, and gold. This theme is continued in its interior, with ornate arched ceilings and pillars. The mosque is at its most beautiful, however, when the sun shines through the stained glass windows, casting rainbows all over the carpeted floors and turning the mosque into a kaleidoscopic spectacle. Shiraz's oldest mosque, dating back to the 9th century AD is Jameh Atigh Mosque. The simple building is embedded within the funerary Shah Cheragh ("Emperor of Light") complex. Similar to Nasir al-Mulk, Shah Cheragh's facade is covered in distinctly Persian blue mosaics. This style is carried over to the tall cupula which sits atop the complex. If the Pink Mosque is the rainbow, Shah Cheragh is the night sky. On the inside, the ceiling is spangled with mirrors which refract the light from large glass chandeliers, giving the illusion of a thousand stars. 

Vakil Bazaar

In Shiraz's city center lies the lively Vakil Bazaar. Explore the vast supply of Persian rugs and spices available and catch a better glimpse into the daily lives of Iranians, away from historic landmarks. Close-by is Vakil Mosque, which is named, like the Bazaar, after the founder of the Zhand Dynasty (1751 - 1794). The large building centers around an open courtyard with a fountain in its middle. Take a walk around the courtyard and inspect the detailed mosaics and floral murals. The labyrinthian pillars and the mosque's tall arched ceilings are not colored and play with light and shadows, relieving your mind from all distractions as you explore the interior of the complex.