Iran Attractions

Shiraz

The attractions of Shiraz range from exquisite mosques, to mausoleums of great historical significance, to tranquil gardens. No visit will be complete without joining the thousands of locals in the Friday night ritual of strolling and picnicking along the western reaches of Dr Chamran Blvd.

Masulé

Of all the traditional and unspoiled mountain villages in the Caspian Province of Gilan, Masulé (Masuleh) is the most breathtakingly beautiful. It's a cool 1050m (3444ft) above sea level and, formed by several irregular levels of terraced cream houses, appears to have grown out of its surroundings.

There are few facilities here, but Masuleh's inspired setting makes it worth the effort to get here. Masuleh is 56km (35mi) from Rasht, which is six hours north-west by bus from Tehran. From Rasht, take a succession of shared taxis or charter your own.

Tehran

Iran is not blessed with one of the world's loveliest capitals. Pollution, traffic snarls, chronic overcrowding and a lack of responsible planning have all helped to make Tehran a metropolis that even the most effusive travel agent would have difficulty praising.

If you're expecting an exotic crossroads steeped in oriental splendour, you'll be sadly disappointed. However, the hotels are good, the variety of restaurants is impressive, the facilities are far ahead of those anywhere in the provinces, and the Tehranis are friendly.