The Silk Road Adventure: Connecting Persia’s Majestic Past and Present

This itinerary covers central and northern Silk Road cities, offering travelers a varied view of Iran’s ancient trade route. From the southern desert cities to the more mountainous regions in the north, each stop has unique historical and cultural significance.

Day 1: Arrival in Tehran

• Arrival in Tehran and check-in to your hotel.

• Begin your journey with a visit to the National Museum of Iran, showcasing Iran's ancient history.

• Explore the Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a grand example of Persian architecture.

Day 2: Tehran to Qazvin

• Travel to Qazvin, an important city historically located along the Silk Road.

• Visit the Chehel Sotoun Palace, Jameh Mosque of Qazvin, and Qazvin Bazaar.

• Explore Alamut Castle, located just outside the city, famously associated with the Nizari Ismailis.

Day 3: Qazvin to Zanjan

• Depart for Zanjan, a Silk Road city known for its rich culture and handicrafts.

• Visit the Soltaniyeh Dome, a UNESCO-listed mausoleum of the Ilkhanid dynasty.

• Explore the Zanjan Bazaar and learn about the traditional trade routes.

Day 4: Zanjan to Hamadan

• Head to Hamadan, one of the oldest cities in Iran, linked to the Silk Road.

• Visit the Tomb of Esther and Mordecai (excluding the visit as per your preference), Ganjnameh Inscription, and Hegmataneh Hill.

• Explore the local markets and experience the city’s ancient atmosphere.

Day 5: Hamadan to Kermanshah

• Journey to Kermanshah, known for its role in ancient trade and historical sites.

• Visit the Bisotun Inscription, a UNESCO site and key to understanding ancient Persia's language and culture.

• Explore Taq-e Bostan, an impressive site of rock reliefs from the Sassanid era.

Day 6: Kermanshah to Isfahan

• Travel to Isfahan, an important city on the Silk Road and one of Iran’s most beautiful.

• Explore Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and Ali Qapu Palace.

• Visit the Isfahan Bazaar, which has been a center for trade for centuries.

Day 7: Isfahan to Kashan

• Depart for Kashan, a city renowned for its historic homes and gardens.

• Visit the Fin Garden, the Tabatabai House, and the Borujerdi House.

• Explore the Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse, a magnificent example of Persian bath architecture.

Day 8: Kashan to Yazd

• Journey to Yazd, famous for its desert architecture and Zoroastrian heritage.

• Visit the Jameh Mosque of Yazd, Zoroastrian Fire Temple, and the Towers of Silence.

• Explore the Yazd Water Museum and understand how water was essential along the Silk Road.

Day 9: Yazd to Shiraz

• Head to Shiraz, the city of gardens and poetry.

• Visit the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, Eram Garden, and the tombs of Hafez and Saadi.

• Discover the Vakil Bazaar and experience the old Silk Road trading atmosphere.

Day 10: Shiraz to Persepolis

• Take a day trip to Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire.

• Explore the Persepolis Archaeological Site, Naqsh-e Rustam, and Pasargadae, home to the Tomb of Cyrus the Great.

Day 11: Shiraz to Tabriz

• Fly or drive to Tabriz, a major Silk Road city in the northwest.

• Visit the Tabriz Bazaar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Blue Mosque.

• Explore the Ark of Tabriz, remnants of a medieval fortress.

Day 12: Departure from Tabriz

• Spend your final day in Tabriz, visiting any remaining sites before your departure.