Shiraz, Isfahan and Kashan are the three important historical and cultural cities of Iran. The main historical monuments are located inside these cities or in their surroundings. 

Glance of Persia is a short scheduled trip which provides an opportunity for you to visit the main light sights of Iran in just 8 days.

Day 1: Arriving  in Tehran & start of tour

on your pre-dawn arrival at Tehran airport, you will be met by our representative carrying our logo show card (transfer information) who will direct and transfer you to your hotel. You will have time to rest and relax before our morning tour of Tehran commences. Tehran, a modern megalopolis, prides itself in having unique museums with immense and unrivaled collections and artifacts dating from the earliest onset of history to the present era.

Our tour begins with a trip to the Archeological Museum, one of the rare places in the world where we have the special opportunity to visit and experience the “evolution of mankind” through the marvelous display of historical relics.

Next on the agenda is our very much-awaited chance to savor the distinctive flavor of Iranian cuisine. Lunch will be  in an exquisite traditional Iranian restaurant where we will sample a wide range of delightful Persian dishes and desserts.

Afterwards, we will visit a world of jewels in the priceless Crown Jewels Museum one of which includes one of the two greatest diamonds, Darya-e-Noor (sea of light).

At the end of the day, we will get a chance to see a variety of Persian hand-woven carpets and rugs in the Carpet Museum which houses more than 100 spectacular pieces from all over Iran.  We will also be given an insight into the history of these carpets. Stay overnight in Tehran.

Attention: The priority in sightseeing may be changed due to the time of your arrival, preference of your guide and also official and unofficial holidays of some museums.

Day 2: visiting Tehran, fly to Shiraz

A morning visit to Sa'ad Abad Complex with an immense area of 1,100,000 square meters and 18 magnificent historical palaces (2 of which we will visit). This palace was built by the Pahlavi dynasty and it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on us. Our Tehran excursion will end at the Ceramic Museum where we will be able to witness its construction with glorious ancient archaeology. Then we leave the hotel for a tasty Iranian lunch in a traditional restaurant. Afterwards we will transfer to the airport for the flight to Shiraz. On the way to the hotel we will pay a visit to Shah e Cheragh. This is one of the most beautiful shrines in Iran with its beautiful dome, wonderful lighting and Mirror-work . Stay overnight in Shiraz.

Day 3: visiting Shiraz

Shiraz has a reputation as an enlightened city that has been at the centre of Persian culture for more than 2,000 years, and was at one time the country's capital.

Shiraz is crowned as the heartland of Persian culture and this city of sophistication will never fail to conjure up images of roses and nightingales, gardens and poetry. Early in the morning, relish in the highlights of Shiraz when it was the capital of Iran during the Zand Dynasty. Be inspired by the glorious Karim Khan palace, the splendid Vakil mosque, Vakil Bazaar and Saray-e-moshir with its splendid architecture and interesting ethnic souvenir shops, and the Nasir Almolk mosque.  Next, we will stop for a mouth-watering Iranian lunch at one of the traditional restaurants of Shiraz.

This gorgeous city is home to famous poets such as Hafez and Sa'adi and historical sites from different eras stretching back 6,000 years ago can be found. Hafez is one of the great poets who impressed everyone with his mastery. His poems give us a special feeling and the peace in his tomb is really outstanding. Sa’adi is a poet, philosopher and mystic who is known as the father of  tourism. About seven previous centuries he travelled to different countries and cities. Then he collected all his experiences in verse and rhyme prose in two books named Boustan and Golestan. These two books give you lots of inspiration and information. We will get a chance to pay homage at the tombs of these great poets. 

In the evening, we will visit Ali-Ebn-e-Hamzeh and be prepared to marvel at its beauties. We will take a stroll through the Jahan Nama Garden and witness its tall and proud cedars. Finally we will visit the Delgosha Garden and Khajoy-e-Kermani tomb from where the perspective of the mysterious city of Shiraz will remain in our mind.

At night we will have dinner in a restaurant of Niayesh boutique hotel Shiraz.

Day 4: drive toward Isfahan via Persepolis & Necropolis

Our visit for today is Persepolis. Founded by Darius I in 518 B.C., Persepolis was the capital of the Achaemenid Empire. It was built on an immense half-artificial, half-natural terrace, where the king of kings created an impressive palace complex inspired by Mesopotamian models. The importance and quality of the monumental ruins make it a unique archaeological site. It seems that Darius planned this impressive complex of palaces not only as the seat of government but also, and primarily, as a showplace and a spectacular centre for the receptions and festivals of the Achaemenid kings and their empire such as Nowroz.

Next is Necropolis. Opposite the mountain of Rahmat, ten minutes to the north, proudly stands the Necropolis, the magnificent burial place of Achaemenid kings. The site also provides seven bas-reliefs dating back to Elamite and Sassanid periods.

Then drive toward Isfahan and stay overnight .

Day 5:  visiting Isfahan

Isfahan the legendary city which never fails to enchant its visitors is the pearl of traditional Islamic archeology. This city is revived by the works of contemporary artists. Isfahan prides itself in having fascinating historical garden palaces.  Legend has it that the city was founded at the time of Tahmoures  and because of its glories has been entitled “Half the World”. Our full day tour includes the famed Imam Square (Naqsh-e-Jahan), a huge square second in the world to Beijing's Tiananmen Square. Tour the architectural marvels of Sheikh Lotfollah and Imam Mosques, Aliqapu Palace, Chehel Sutoon and Hasht Behesht Palaces, and also visit one of the most famous bazaars in Iran, where we can purchase the arts & crafts for which Isfahan is so well renowned. Stay overnight in Isfahan.

Day 6: visiting Isfahan

Isfahan’s Jame' mosque displays several centuries of historical Islamic evolution. This mosque is a gallery of Islamic architecture in which the progress of architecture from the outset of Islam till recent times is evident. Then we will visit Vank Church which is one of the most beautiful Armenian churches in the world and will undoubtedly capture the attention of every Christian. Our day will conclude with a visit to Monar Jomban, the tomb of a Sufi with its shaking minarets and some historical bridges. Evening is free at leisure.

Day 7: driving to Kashan via Abyaneh

On the way to Kashan, we will visit the UNESCO recognized village of Abyaneh, located at the foot of Mount Karkas and in the vicinity of desert. Appreciate the serenity of this quaint village with its splendid archaeology and meet the dwellers who speak, live and dress in the original Persian style.

Next, visit Tabatabaiha and Borojerdiha houses in Kashan and some other historical places specially chosen by our tour guide and be acquainted with the previous century’s architecture, the Qajar era. Stay overnight in Kashan.

Day 8:  Transfer to IKA (195 km) , depart Iran

Today visit Qom (if it is possible) before being transfered to IKA, Depart Iran the land of warmth and hospitality with fond memories. 

Tour Services:

1. Invitation letter for Iranian visa
2. 8 nights stay in middle class hotels
3. 8 days transportation across Iran
4. Experienced English speaking guide for 8 days
5. Breakfast and lunch
6. Domestic flights
7. All entrance fees
8. Special offers
9. Transfer by guide

PRICE UPON REQUEST