This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Tehran.
Nearly all travelers pass through Tehran, Iran, on their Journey around Iran, whether it is just for one night or for more days. With more than fourteen million citizens, Tehran is one of the biggest metropoles in the world. It may not be known as a very attractive city, but you can certainly entertain yourself here for at least a few days.
Iran has only recently opened its doors for tourists and Tehran receives only a fraction of the tourists of other metropoles of its size. You will not find many expats, and even though locals notice that you are different, they will often try to speak in Farsi to you because they do not get that you are visiting as a tourist. Only when you take out your camera or are recognizable in another way as a tourist, they will come up to you and speak in English -- often not to sell you something, but just to welcome you to their country.
Although tourism in Tehran is still small, hostels in Tehran, Iran, are popping up quickly. There are now a few Tehran, Iran hostels and it is highly recommended to book your Tehran, Iran hostel at least several days in advance. The hostel’s exact location does not have to be a priority when booking your Tehran, Iran hostel. The places you will want to visit are all spread out over the city and you will need transportation to reach the different places. It is therefore recommended to check the distance to metro stations nearby. The traffic in Tehran is extremely bad, so metro is by far the best way to get around, even though they tend to be packed.
Tehran is rich in museums and you may want to visit one or more during your stay in Tehran. Tehran has got a huge bazaar (Grand Bazaar) which is definitely worth a visit. Here you can buy anything from candy to carpets. The Tajrish Bazaar is also worth visiting and not as crowded as the Grand Bazaar. Other landmarks include the Azadi Tower, the Golestan Palace, Tabiat Bridge, and Towchat.
Count on at least two full days for Tehran’s main sites, but you can easily keep yourself entertained for more days.
Written by local enthusiast for Tehran hostels
Martin Straatman