Things to See in Iran

Known for centuries as Naqsh-e Jahan, or 'pattern of the world', this vast square is home to what is arguably the most majestic collection of buildings in the Islamic world. It's also the second-largest square on earth (after Tiananmen Square).

One of Iran's Unesco World Heritage sites, Choqa Zanbil's magnificent brick ziggurat is the best surviving example of Elamite architecture anywhere in the world. Even if you're not a fan of ancient ruins, the great bulk and splendid semi-desert isolation of Choqa Zanbil will impress.

Known for centuries as Naqsh-e Jahan, or 'pattern of the world', this square is home to what is arguably the most majestic collection of buildings in Islamic culture. It's also the second-largest square on earth (after Tiananmen Square).

Part of an enjoyable day trip from Yazd involves a loop along quiet roads to the ancient mud-brick village of Kharanaq. Parts of the village are believed to be more than 1000 years old, and it's been occupied in some form for more than 4000 years.

Persepolis, the Throne of Jamshid, was a massive and magnificent palace complex built from about 512 BC and completed over the next 150 years. This magnificent site embodies the greatest successes of the ancient Achaemenid Empire, exemplified by the monumental staircases, exquisite reliefs, immense columns and imposing gateways.