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Tehran (also spelled Teheran) (Persian: تهران), is the capital city of Iran. A bustling metropolis of 14 million people, it sits at the foot of the towering Alborz mountain range. Aerial view of Tehran

Tehran is a cosmopolitan city, with great museums, parks, restaurants, and warm friendly people. It deserves at least a few days of your Iranian itinerary.

The city can be roughly divided into two parts - north and south. The northern districts of Tehran are more prosperous, modern, cosmopolitan and expensive while southern parts are less attractive but cheaper.

At the time of the Zand dynasty, it was a little town that was significant from a strategic point of view. The first of the Qajar kings, Agha Mohammed Khan, named Tehran as the country's capital in 1778, and most of its growth started during the reign of a subsequent Qajar monarch, Fath-Ali Shah. The castle which Agha Mohammed Khan had built was to contain the new majestic buildings.

At the same time, the city's population doubled. Due to the increasing significance of the city, gates, squares and mosques were built and it was at the time of Nassereddin Shah that the city's master sketch was prepared and modern streets were constructed. Later, huge central squares like Toopkhaneh square (now Imam Khomeini) and quite a few military buildings were built. Even though the Qajar dynasty was in a period of decline, Tehran soon took the shape of a modern city. The structure of large government buildings, new streets, recreation centres, urban service organizations, and academic and methodical centres were started, even as most of the old gates and buildings were destroyed and the city's old architectural fabric replaced by a contemporary one.

Tehran has also earned itself an unenviable reputation as a smog-filled, traffic-clogged and featureless sprawl of concrete bursting at the seams with 14 million residents. But you can also find an endless number of nice and cosy places in and around the city - if you know where to look. Tehran is a city of more than 800 parks, all well-kept. The city is nearly a mile high above sea level and as a result is cooler than other cities in the Middle East. Summer temperatures are around 32°C or 90-95°F. The air tends to be very dry.

A combination of factors make Tehran a pleasant place to visit: the dry climate which is cool in the evenings, the proximity of the mountains, the parks and gardens where flowers blossom all through the year, the alleys of trees in the avenues or even smaller streets, and even the water that runs down from the upper city along deep and wide gutters which look like small rivers during spring. The Alborz range on the north of Tehran, which hosts the highest peak in Iran, provides fantastic conditions for ski lovers in the winter. In winter, the mountain hotels and ski clubs at Shemshak, and Dizine are full several days a week. Some specialist skiers consider the snow value in northern Tehran to be one of the most excellent in the world.

The Azadi Tower, Kuy-e-Mehr Abad (Azadi Square Subway Station. The longstanding symbol of Tehran was constructed to commemorate the 2,500th anniversary of the Persian empire, combines elements of Sassanid and Islamic architecture. The entrance of the tower is directly underneath the main vault and leads into the Azadi Museum on the basement floor. Do not sit on the grass! Officers chase away people.
Mausoleum of Ayatollah Khomeini, near to Behesht-e Zahra, Cemetery Highway (بزرگراه بهشت زهرا) (Metro: Haram-e-Motahar NW 300m,. The gigantic mausoleum is on the southern edge of the city. The sheer size of the shrine/shopping centre is enough to make the trip worth it. Women can borrow chadors at entrance. Bags have to be left for free at one of the compound doors. Entrance is free.
Milad Tower, +98 21 8436 1000. 435-m-high Milad tower is the fourth-tallest tower in the world and 12th-tallest freestanding structure in the world, and it is visible from almost everywhere in Tehran. Tickets to enter the observation lounge must be reserved well in advance. There are several restaurants in and around the tower, and a mediocre art gallery. 2 viewing decks exist: indoor sky dome at 305 m - 350,000 rials, outdoor viewing deck at 250 m - 120,000 rials.

The Azadi Tower, Kuy-e-Mehr Abad (Azadi Square Subway Station. The longstanding symbol of Tehran was constructed to commemorate the 2,500th anniversary of the Persian empire, combines elements of Sassanid and Islamic architecture. The entrance of the tower is directly underneath the main vault and leads into the Azadi Museum on the basement floor. Do not sit on the grass! Officers chase away people.

Mausoleum of Ayatollah Khomeini, near to Behesht-e Zahra, Cemetery Highway (بزرگراه بهشت زهرا) (Metro: Haram-e-Motahar NW 300m,. The gigantic mausoleum is on the southern edge of the city. The sheer size of the shrine/shopping centre is enough to make the trip worth it. Women can borrow chadors at entrance. Bags have to be left for free at one of the compound doors. Entrance is free.

Milad Tower, +98 21 8436 1000. 435-m-high Milad tower is the fourth-tallest tower in the world and 12th-tallest freestanding structure in the world, and it is visible from almost everywhere in Tehran. Tickets to enter the observation lounge must be reserved well in advance. There are several restaurants in and around the tower, and a mediocre art gallery. 2 viewing decks exist: indoor sky dome at 305 m - 350,000 rials, outdoor viewing deck at 250 m - 120,000 rials.

Golestan Palace

Treasury of the National Jewels, Ferdosi St (فردوسی), near the corner of Jomhuriyeh Eslami Ave (Metro: Saadi 300 m NE or M: Imam Khomeini 200 m; look for the heavy iron gate and rifle-wielding guards beside the Central Bank. Sa-Tu 14:00-16:30. If you want to drool over gold and glitter, take a look here. You'll get to see a collection of some of the most expensive jewels in the world. Highlights include the world's largest uncut ruby, the world's largest pink diamond (the Sea of Light) and a free-standing golden globe made from 34 kg of gold and an astounding 51,366 precious stones. The collection comprises a set of crowns and thrones, some 30 tiaras, numerous aigrettes, jewel-studded swords and shields, a vast amount of precious loose gems, including the largest collections of emeralds, rubies and diamonds in the world. It also includes other items collected by the Shahs of Iran during the 2,500-year existence of the Iranian kingdom. 200,000 rials admission fee. An informative 6,000 rials information book is available.
National Museum of Iran, 30th Tir (سی تیر) (M: Imam Khomeini 200 m SE, - 30th Tir St. and Imam Ave. Intersection, +98 21 670 2061 (/6). 08:00-19:00 (Mar 2019). The has ceramics, stone figures and carvings dating all the way back to around the 5th millennium BC. It is the combination of two museums, the old building (entrance fee: 300,000 rials) dedicated pre-Islamic collection dating from Neolithic to the Sassanid period and the new building (entrance fee 200,000 rials) dedicated to Iran's 1,400-year Islamic history. Building One consists of three halls. The three halls contain artifacts from the lower, middle, and upper Paleolithic, as well as the Neolithic, Chalcolithic, early and late Bronze Age, and Iron Ages I-III, through the Median, Achaemenid, Seleucid, Parthian, and Sassanid periods. The post-Islamic part of the museum was inaugurated in 1996 and consists of three floors. It contains various pieces of pottery, textiles, texts, artworks, astrolabes, and adobe calligraphy from Iran's 1,400-year Islamic history. Also here find: Islamic Period Museum. 200,000 rials, 300,000 rials.
Golestan Palace, Khordad Sq. 15, Pamenar (پامنار) (M: Panzdah-e-Khordad 300m, +98 21 3311 3335. 09:00 - 18:00, museums close at 17:00. The oldest of the historic monuments in Tehran. The complex consists of 17 palaces, museums, and Halls. The Golestan (Rose Garden) citadel is one of mainly visited places in Tehran, which was the Qajars' royal residence, and its garden is an oasis of coolness and peace in the heart of the city. The major building, architecturally unpretentious, houses a museum with objects from the Qajar period in the self-important style of last century. In the Golestan garden, a one-story pavilion to the right and a short distance from the entrance, shelters one of the best organized museums in Tehran. It encloses about thirty showcases presenting almost everything related to Iran, which makes up the critical originality of Iranian life in the a variety of provinces of the country. Golestan Palace was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2013. 150,000 rials admission to the gardens, 300,000 rials for the main buildings and some other less important rooms (paintings and objects), 80,000 rials for other buildings and museums. More than 1 million rials total if planning to visit all of them.
- Takht Marmar. A spectacular terrace (iwan) was built in 1806 by order of Fath Ali Shah Qajar (r. 1797-1834). Adorned by paintings, marble-carvings, tile-work, stucco, mirrors, enamel, woodcarvings, and lattice windows; the throne embodies the finest of Iranian architecture. The Marble Throne is one of the oldest buildings of the historic Arg. The existing throne, which is situated in the middle of the terrace (iwan), is made of the famous yellow marble of Yazd province.
- Khalvat Karim Khani. This building was a part of the interior residence of Karim Khan Zand. The basic structure of its is similar to Takht-e-Marmar. There is a small marble throne inside the terrace. The structure is much smaller than Takht-e-Marmar and it has much less ornamentation. It seems extraordinary, but the valuable gravestone of Nasser-ol-Din Shah found its way to this quite corner of the Palace. This marble stone with a craved image of Nasser-ol-Din Shah is indeed a site to behold.
- Hoze Khaneh. The Hoze Khaneh was used as a summer chamber during the Qajar ear. A special cooling system pumped water form a subterranean system of streams (qanats) into small ponds inside the chambers. This system is no longer in use. European paints housed here.
- Negar Khaneh. Here are the paintings of the royal court, with the European paints housed in the Hose Khaneh and the works of Iranian painters housed in the Negar Khaneh (the Gallery). Meant to show the evolution of painting in Iran during the Qajar era, the works of Iranian painters are exhibited in two sections. Housed in the southern part of the Negar Khaneh are the works of early Qajar masters such as Mirza Baba, Mehr Ali Afshar, Ali Akbar Khan Mozaien-ol-Douleh, Aboul Hassan Sani (Sanie-ol-Molk) who was Kamal-ol-Molk’s uncle.
- Talar Berelian. The Hall was built by Nasser-ol-Din Shah build to replace another hall called Talar Bolour (Crystal Hall). Built by Fath Ali Shah the Bolour Hall had been laid waste by the damp. The Berelian Hall is famous for its mirror work and chandeliers.
Niavaran Palace, Pourebtehaj/Pvrabthaj (پورابتهاج) (from Tajrish Metro Station 4.5 km E; taxis leave from Tajrish Square; ask to be dropped off at Niavaran Square ("maydoone Niavaran"); a taxi "dar baste" should cost 20,000-30,000 rials; while there are taxis at the front gate, on leaving the palace a cheaper option is to use a municipal bus which terminates at Tajrish Square; look for a bus stop on Niavaran St. that is close to a branch of the Refah Bank, +98 21 2228 2012. This is a historical complex which consists of several buildings and a museum. The Saheb-Qaranieh Palace (صاحبقرانیه), from the time of Naser al-Din Shah of Qajar dynasty, is also inside the complex. - Jahan Nama Museum(کاخ‌موزه‌های نیاوران): Niavaran Palace, Niavaran Ave., phone +98 21 228 2012, Fax: +98 21 228 2079. - Cinema Museum(موزه سینمای ایران): Niavaran Palace Museum, Niavaran, +98 21 228 2012/5.
Masoudieh palace, +98 21 3399 2013. 08:00 - 17:00. Built in 1879 for the prince Mass’oud Mirza - the son of Nasseredin Shah, the governor of Isfahan. 200,000 rials.
Safir Office Machines Museum, No. 232, Kalantari? Cross, North Iranshahr street?, (خیابان ایرانشهر) (From M Ferdosi North?, +98 21 8832 0320. F 11:00-16:00, Sa-W 09:00-19:00, Th 09:00-18:00. It was founded in 2008 by Frashad Kamalkhani, the museum owner. It includes a collection of early office machines.
Saad Abad Fine Arts Museum, Darband, Zafaraniyeh, Tajrish, Valiasr St (from M: Tajrish 1.5 km NW. Built in Neoclassical style, in 1920.
Glassware Museum of Tehran, Behjat Abad.- Jomhoori (or Jomhouri?) Ave., or Republic Street?, Sytyr (30th Tir) St, No. 55-75?; (from M: Hassan Abad 0.7 km NE, +98 21 670 8153. Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. 25,000 rials for foreign tourists, 2,500 rials for Iranian adults.
Iran's National Rug Gallery & Carpet Museum, Dr Fatemi (دکتر فاطمی) (from M: Enqelab-Eslami 1.5 km N, near to Laleh Park, Fatemi & North Kargar intersection. This exhibits a variety of Persian carpets from all over Iran, dating from 18th century to present. It has a library that contains 7,000 books.
Reza Abbasi Museum, Seyed Khandan, 972 Shariati Ave (before Seyed Khandan Bridge; it can be reached by the Resalat Freeway; from M: Aliabad 500 m NE, +98 21 863001-2, +98 21 863003. Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Named after Reza Abbasi, one of the artists in the Safavid period, the collections of this museum belong to a period from the 2nd millennium BC to the early 20th century. 25,000 rials for foreign tourists, 2,500 rials for Iranian adults.
Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art, North Kargar Ave. (کارگر شمالی), +98 21 88963200. Th-Sa 10:00-17:30. Features the works of great artists such as Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso and Andy Warhol. The collection of these paintings were selected by the former Empress Farah Diba.
Tehran City Theater, Enghelab és Vali Cross Street (تقاطع خیابان انقلاب و ولی‌عصر) (From M Enqelab-Eslami 0.5 km east, +98 21 66460592. Architect Ali Sardar Afkhami designed the main building in the 1960s, later (1972) expanded.
Darabad Museum of Natural History, Muzeh, Dar-abad (From Aghdasiyeh Subway Station 2km N, +98 21 22803539. 20 March-20 Sept: M-Sa 08:30-20:30, 21 Sept-19 March: M-Sa 08:30-18:30 Sunday. Iran's most famous museum for nature and wildlife.

Saadabad Palace, Tehran

Saadabad Palace, Vali Asr Ave (The Saadabad palace and museum complex can be reached by foot from Tajrish Square. Walk up Sa'dabad St. past the Arg Shopping Center and turn left on reaching Afraz St. Turn right at the next intersection and walk down Javdan St., again turning right at the next intersection. Go all the way up to the end of Taheri St. where the south gate is located. Entrance to the park is free, but you must purchase all tickets to the museums you want to visit beforehand at the gate. Be careful of traffic while walking there!, +98 21 228 2031. A palace built by the Pahlavi dynasty of Iran in the Shemiran area of Tehran. The complex was first inhabited by Qajar monarchs and royal family in the 19th century. Parts of the Saadabad Palace compound are museums, in which visitors can roam through and look at the rich history of Iran. The following museums make up the complex: Klara Abkar Painting Museum, Hossein Behzad (miniature) Paintings Museum, Abkar Miniature Museum, Fine Arts Museum (18th & 19th century European paintings), Kamaleddin Behzad Miniature Museum, Mahmoud Farshchian Miniature Museum, - Mellat Palace Museum, Military Museum (موزه نظامی), Mir Emad Calligraphy Museum, Ethnological Research Museum, Iranian National Museum of War Green Museum (Shah Reza Summer Palace), Water Museum (keeping, restoring and revenue operation of water in Iran). Rojat Palace, Ebrat Palace (Mother), Vessels Museum (Ashraf Palace), Dafineh Museum, Farideh Diba Palace, Natural History Museum. Other buildings on complex area: Shahram Palace, Prince Palace, Leila Palace, Farahnaz Palace, Hamid Reza Palace, Gholamreza Palace, Nasiri Palace, Twin Ghajar Palace.
- Green Palace. Built in 1922-1928. Main parts of it: Waiting room, Reza Shah working room, Ceremonies Hall, Reza shah Dinning room, Corridor, Reza Shah Bedroom, Ceremony Hall.
- National Arts Museum. Part of Saadabad Palace; gifts to the Shahs from Chinese, Indian and African delegations.
Former Qasr Prison, Marvdasht? Qelichkhani?. Closed or moved? Now there is the Islamic Revolution Court? (دادگاه انقلاب اسلامی) - It was built by the order of Fat′h Ali Shah of the Qajar dynasty in 1790 in the form of a palace.
Time Museum, Asad Abad? No. 12, Baqdadi St. (Baghdadi Bahar), (Zaferanieh St., Vali Asr Ave., Farmaniye district, north of Tehran - Bus BRT 7 to 'Baagh Ferdows', +98 21 241 7336. Evolution of time-measurement instruments. In a building (700 m²) with a garden (0.6 ha).
Money Museum, No.1, Daman Afshar (نبش کوچه دفینه), Mirdamad Street (Mirdamad Blvd?), Vali Asr Ave (from Metro 'Haghani' NW 1km, +98 21 879 5994, +98 21 877 4745. Coins and banknotes from different historic periods.
Former Towhid Prison, now the Edification Museum (Ebrat Museum), 11, Martyr Yarjani St, - Kushk Mesri St. (Ferdousi Ave., Imam Khomeini Sq.(ميدان امام خميني) - from Metro 'Imam Khomeini' 300m NW. Tours daily 10:00 & 14:00. Persian:بازداشتگاه توحید . The prison of Shah ages. It was an unofficial detention centre in Tehran, used against opponents of the Islamic Republic of Iran until its closure in 2000.
Talar Vahdat Theater.
Paradise Garden, Baq-e Ferdous Park?, Delbar (From Metro 'Tajrish' West 1.1 km.
13 (Martyrs?) Aban Museum, Imam (Sepah) Sq. (from M 'Emam Hossein' NW 0.7 km, +98-21 670-1915. Sa-Th 09:00-20:00. Paintings, sculptures of people, kings, artists and scientists. Masterpieces of "Seyed Ali Akbar Sanati".
Air Force Museum, Karaj Highway (جاده مخصوص کرج) (Ekbatan Metro Station 1 km south, +98 21 600 9318.
Akskhaneh Shahr, Bahar-e-Shiraz Ave (From Haft-e-Tir Subway Station 0.8 km east, +98-21 884-8993. Ancient photos, tools and equipment.
Azadi Cultural Complex, Azadi Square (Persian: میدانِ آزادی), or Freedom Square (M: Azadi Square Subway Station, +98 21 602 3951. Azadi Tower built in 1971 in commemoration of the 2,500th anniversary of the Persian Empire, this "Gateway into Iran" was named the Shahyad Tower, meaning "Kings' Memorial", but was dubbed Azadi (Freedom) after the Iranian Revolution of 1979. It is 50 m tall and completely clad in cut marble.
Coin Museum, Imam Khomeini Avenue, Amnar (امنار) (M: Imam Khomeini, +98 21 311 1091.
Dr. Hesabi Memorial Museum, 8 Hesabi St., Zaferanieh, Vali Asr Ave (M 'Tajrish' 0.9 km, 17th street corner, +98 21 223 1676.
Ethnological Museum, 15 Khordad Sq (Sa’ d-Abad Palace?, +21 311 0653, +98 21 311 3335.
Geology Museum, Meraj Blvd?., Azadi Ave, +98-21 600-7537, +98-21 607-1981 (to 1990). Daily 09:00-12:00, restricted to schoolchildren.
Haft-Chenar Wildlife Museum, +21 573 8745. Sa-Th 09:00-18:00. Persian: تنوع زیستی حیات وحش
History Museum, Afrouz St., Pirouzi Ave., Shohada Square, +98 21 878 8680, +98 21 878 8681. Displays 500 works of art on the 200-year history of Tehran.
Iran Historical Car Museum, Lashkary Expressway, Karaj Highway (From Metro Chitgar SW 2.7 km - next to Sepah Store, +98 21 44 52 5892. Th F Sa 08:00-20:00. The collection include 45 imperial cars, 2 royal carriages and 3 motorcycles.
Iranian Electrical Industry Museum ?, Afrouz St., Pirouzi Ave., Shohada Square ?, +98 21 326 2328.
History Museum, Qobadian St., Vali Asr Ave (From Metro Haghani NW 0.5 km, +98 21 878 8683. Su-F 09:00-13:00; 14:00-20:00.
Malek National Museum and Library, Baq Melli, Imam Sq, +98 21 672 6653, +98 21 672-6613. 08:30-13:30. Art collections, coins, stamps, carpets.
National Arts Museum, +98 21 311 6329. It was part of Golestan Palace, but now it is located inside a government building. It is a small museum but with some good furniture and paintings.
Natural History Museum, 9 9 Qaem Maqam-e-Farahani Ave (M Mofateh 1 km east, +98 21 884 3498, +98 21 882 4513. Sa-W 07:00-12:00; 13:00-15:00. Natural specimens pertaining to geology, zoology, botany, fossils of plants and animals on four level.
Rassam Arab-zadeh Carpet (فرش) Museum, 7 First Boustan, Pasdaran Ave, +98 21 284 9775, +98 21 284 7911. Sa-Th 09:00-20:00. Small rug exhibit (30 pieces).
Saba House, No. 92, Zahiro-Islam St., Baharestan, +98 21 311 1246. Sa-M W-Th 08:00-16:00. Iranian Musician Memorial Museum.
Stained Glass Painting Museum, No.348, Hedayat St., (Sadi Ave.) (Hedayat & Tonekabon Intersection,, +98 21 752 6777. Tu-Sa 09:00-18:00.
Tehran University Science Museum, +98 21 611 2629, +98 21 611 2701.
Telephone, Post & Telegraph Museum, Imam khomeini Ave, +98 21 670 0503, +98-21 671-028, +98-21 674-454. Tu-Su 09:00-12:00; 13:00-15:00.
Zoological Museum.
National Museum of the Holy Quran.
Den of Espionage: the former US embassy that was stormed by revolutionary students in 1979 is now a museum. Anti-American propaganda paintings decorate the walls of the compound. Despite the official hostility, Iranians in the streets around the former embassy are friendly towards Americans and other foreigners. Taleghani metro station. Closes at 18:30. Fee: 200,000 rials (Mar 2019).

Treasury of the National Jewels, Ferdosi St (فردوسی), near the corner of Jomhuriyeh Eslami Ave (Metro: Saadi 300 m NE or M: Imam Khomeini 200 m; look for the heavy iron gate and rifle-wielding guards beside the Central Bank. Sa-Tu 14:00-16:30. If you want to drool over gold and glitter, take a look here. You'll get to see a collection of some of the most expensive jewels in the world. Highlights include the world's largest uncut ruby, the world's largest pink diamond (the Sea of Light) and a free-standing golden globe made from 34 kg of gold and an astounding 51,366 precious stones. The collection comprises a set of crowns and thrones, some 30 tiaras, numerous aigrettes, jewel-studded swords and shields, a vast amount of precious loose gems, including the largest collections of emeralds, rubies and diamonds in the world. It also includes other items collected by the Shahs of Iran during the 2,500-year existence of the Iranian kingdom. 200,000 rials admission fee. An informative 6,000 rials information book is available.

National Museum of Iran, 30th Tir (سی تیر) (M: Imam Khomeini 200 m SE, - 30th Tir St. and Imam Ave. Intersection, +98 21 670 2061 (/6). 08:00-19:00 (Mar 2019). The has ceramics, stone figures and carvings dating all the way back to around the 5th millennium BC. It is the combination of two museums, the old building (entrance fee: 300,000 rials) dedicated pre-Islamic collection dating from Neolithic to the Sassanid period and the new building (entrance fee 200,000 rials) dedicated to Iran's 1,400-year Islamic history. Building One consists of three halls. The three halls contain artifacts from the lower, middle, and upper Paleolithic, as well as the Neolithic, Chalcolithic, early and late Bronze Age, and Iron Ages I-III, through the Median, Achaemenid, Seleucid, Parthian, and Sassanid periods. The post-Islamic part of the museum was inaugurated in 1996 and consists of three floors. It contains various pieces of pottery, textiles, texts, artworks, astrolabes, and adobe calligraphy from Iran's 1,400-year Islamic history. Also here find: Islamic Period Museum. 200,000 rials, 300,000 rials.

Golestan Palace, Khordad Sq. 15, Pamenar (پامنار) (M: Panzdah-e-Khordad 300m, +98 21 3311 3335. 09:00 - 18:00, museums close at 17:00. The oldest of the historic monuments in Tehran. The complex consists of 17 palaces, museums, and Halls. The Golestan (Rose Garden) citadel is one of mainly visited places in Tehran, which was the Qajars' royal residence, and its garden is an oasis of coolness and peace in the heart of the city. The major building, architecturally unpretentious, houses a museum with objects from the Qajar period in the self-important style of last century. In the Golestan garden, a one-story pavilion to the right and a short distance from the entrance, shelters one of the best organized museums in Tehran. It encloses about thirty showcases presenting almost everything related to Iran, which makes up the critical originality of Iranian life in the a variety of provinces of the country. Golestan Palace was added to the [[UNESCO World Heritage List]] in 2013. 150,000 rials admission to the gardens, 300,000 rials for the main buildings and some other less important rooms (paintings and objects), 80,000 rials for other buildings and museums. More than 1 million rials total if planning to visit all of them.

Takht Marmar. A spectacular terrace (iwan) was built in 1806 by order of Fath Ali Shah Qajar (r. 1797-1834). Adorned by paintings, marble-carvings, tile-work, stucco, mirrors, enamel, woodcarvings, and lattice windows; the throne embodies the finest of Iranian architecture. The Marble Throne is one of the oldest buildings of the historic Arg. The existing throne, which is situated in the middle of the terrace (iwan), is made of the famous yellow marble of Yazd province.
Khalvat Karim Khani. This building was a part of the interior residence of Karim Khan Zand. The basic structure of its is similar to Takht-e-Marmar. There is a small marble throne inside the terrace. The structure is much smaller than Takht-e-Marmar and it has much less ornamentation. It seems extraordinary, but the valuable gravestone of Nasser-ol-Din Shah found its way to this quite corner of the Palace. This marble stone with a craved image of Nasser-ol-Din Shah is indeed a site to behold.
Hoze Khaneh. The Hoze Khaneh was used as a summer chamber during the Qajar ear. A special cooling system pumped water form a subterranean system of streams (qanats) into small ponds inside the chambers. This system is no longer in use. European paints housed here.
Negar Khaneh. Here are the paintings of the royal court, with the European paints housed in the Hose Khaneh and the works of Iranian painters housed in the Negar Khaneh (the Gallery). Meant to show the evolution of painting in Iran during the Qajar era, the works of Iranian painters are exhibited in two sections. Housed in the southern part of the Negar Khaneh are the works of early Qajar masters such as Mirza Baba, Mehr Ali Afshar, Ali Akbar Khan Mozaien-ol-Douleh, Aboul Hassan Sani (Sanie-ol-Molk) who was Kamal-ol-Molk’s uncle.
Talar Berelian. The Hall was built by Nasser-ol-Din Shah build to replace another hall called Talar Bolour (Crystal Hall). Built by Fath Ali Shah the Bolour Hall had been laid waste by the damp. The Berelian Hall is famous for its mirror work and chandeliers.

Takht Marmar. A spectacular terrace (iwan) was built in 1806 by order of Fath Ali Shah Qajar (r. 1797-1834). Adorned by paintings, marble-carvings, tile-work, stucco, mirrors, enamel, woodcarvings, and lattice windows; the throne embodies the finest of Iranian architecture. The Marble Throne is one of the oldest buildings of the historic Arg. The existing throne, which is situated in the middle of the terrace (iwan), is made of the famous yellow marble of Yazd province.
Khalvat Karim Khani. This building was a part of the interior residence of Karim Khan Zand. The basic structure of its is similar to Takht-e-Marmar. There is a small marble throne inside the terrace. The structure is much smaller than Takht-e-Marmar and it has much less ornamentation. It seems extraordinary, but the valuable gravestone of Nasser-ol-Din Shah found its way to this quite corner of the Palace. This marble stone with a craved image of Nasser-ol-Din Shah is indeed a site to behold.
Hoze Khaneh. The Hoze Khaneh was used as a summer chamber during the Qajar ear. A special cooling system pumped water form a subterranean system of streams (qanats) into small ponds inside the chambers. This system is no longer in use. European paints housed here.
Negar Khaneh. Here are the paintings of the royal court, with the European paints housed in the Hose Khaneh and the works of Iranian painters housed in the Negar Khaneh (the Gallery). Meant to show the evolution of painting in Iran during the Qajar era, the works of Iranian painters are exhibited in two sections. Housed in the southern part of the Negar Khaneh are the works of early Qajar masters such as Mirza Baba, Mehr Ali Afshar, Ali Akbar Khan Mozaien-ol-Douleh, Aboul Hassan Sani (Sanie-ol-Molk) who was Kamal-ol-Molk’s uncle.
Talar Berelian. The Hall was built by Nasser-ol-Din Shah build to replace another hall called Talar Bolour (Crystal Hall). Built by Fath Ali Shah the Bolour Hall had been laid waste by the damp. The Berelian Hall is famous for its mirror work and chandeliers.

Takht Marmar. A spectacular terrace (iwan) was built in 1806 by order of Fath Ali Shah Qajar (r. 1797-1834). Adorned by paintings, marble-carvings, tile-work, stucco, mirrors, enamel, woodcarvings, and lattice windows; the throne embodies the finest of Iranian architecture. The Marble Throne is one of the oldest buildings of the historic Arg. The existing throne, which is situated in the middle of the terrace (iwan), is made of the famous yellow marble of Yazd province.
Khalvat Karim Khani. This building was a part of the interior residence of Karim Khan Zand. The basic structure of its is similar to Takht-e-Marmar. There is a small marble throne inside the terrace. The structure is much smaller than Takht-e-Marmar and it has much less ornamentation. It seems extraordinary, but the valuable gravestone of Nasser-ol-Din Shah found its way to this quite corner of the Palace. This marble stone with a craved image of Nasser-ol-Din Shah is indeed a site to behold.
Hoze Khaneh. The Hoze Khaneh was used as a summer chamber during the Qajar ear. A special cooling system pumped water form a subterranean system of streams (qanats) into small ponds inside the chambers. This system is no longer in use. European paints housed here.
Negar Khaneh. Here are the paintings of the royal court, with the European paints housed in the Hose Khaneh and the works of Iranian painters housed in the Negar Khaneh (the Gallery). Meant to show the evolution of painting in Iran during the Qajar era, the works of Iranian painters are exhibited in two sections. Housed in the southern part of the Negar Khaneh are the works of early Qajar masters such as Mirza Baba, Mehr Ali Afshar, Ali Akbar Khan Mozaien-ol-Douleh, Aboul Hassan Sani (Sanie-ol-Molk) who was Kamal-ol-Molk’s uncle.
Talar Berelian. The Hall was built by Nasser-ol-Din Shah build to replace another hall called Talar Bolour (Crystal Hall). Built by Fath Ali Shah the Bolour Hall had been laid waste by the damp. The Berelian Hall is famous for its mirror work and chandeliers.

Takht Marmar. A spectacular terrace (iwan) was built in 1806 by order of Fath Ali Shah Qajar (r. 1797-1834). Adorned by paintings, marble-carvings, tile-work, stucco, mirrors, enamel, woodcarvings, and lattice windows; the throne embodies the finest of Iranian architecture. The Marble Throne is one of the oldest buildings of the historic Arg. The existing throne, which is situated in the middle of the terrace (iwan), is made of the famous yellow marble of Yazd province.
Khalvat Karim Khani. This building was a part of the interior residence of Karim Khan Zand. The basic structure of its is similar to Takht-e-Marmar. There is a small marble throne inside the terrace. The structure is much smaller than Takht-e-Marmar and it has much less ornamentation. It seems extraordinary, but the valuable gravestone of Nasser-ol-Din Shah found its way to this quite corner of the Palace. This marble stone with a craved image of Nasser-ol-Din Shah is indeed a site to behold.
Hoze Khaneh. The Hoze Khaneh was used as a summer chamber during the Qajar ear. A special cooling system pumped water form a subterranean system of streams (qanats) into small ponds inside the chambers. This system is no longer in use. European paints housed here.
Negar Khaneh. Here are the paintings of the royal court, with the European paints housed in the Hose Khaneh and the works of Iranian painters housed in the Negar Khaneh (the Gallery). Meant to show the evolution of painting in Iran during the Qajar era, the works of Iranian painters are exhibited in two sections. Housed in the southern part of the Negar Khaneh are the works of early Qajar masters such as Mirza Baba, Mehr Ali Afshar, Ali Akbar Khan Mozaien-ol-Douleh, Aboul Hassan Sani (Sanie-ol-Molk) who was Kamal-ol-Molk’s uncle.
Talar Berelian. The Hall was built by Nasser-ol-Din Shah build to replace another hall called Talar Bolour (Crystal Hall). Built by Fath Ali Shah the Bolour Hall had been laid waste by the damp. The Berelian Hall is famous for its mirror work and chandeliers.

Takht Marmar. A spectacular terrace (iwan) was built in 1806 by order of Fath Ali Shah Qajar (r. 1797-1834). Adorned by paintings, marble-carvings, tile-work, stucco, mirrors, enamel, woodcarvings, and lattice windows; the throne embodies the finest of Iranian architecture. The Marble Throne is one of the oldest buildings of the historic Arg. The existing throne, which is situated in the middle of the terrace (iwan), is made of the famous yellow marble of Yazd province.
Khalvat Karim Khani. This building was a part of the interior residence of Karim Khan Zand. The basic structure of its is similar to Takht-e-Marmar. There is a small marble throne inside the terrace. The structure is much smaller than Takht-e-Marmar and it has much less ornamentation. It seems extraordinary, but the valuable gravestone of Nasser-ol-Din Shah found its way to this quite corner of the Palace. This marble stone with a craved image of Nasser-ol-Din Shah is indeed a site to behold.
Hoze Khaneh. The Hoze Khaneh was used as a summer chamber during the Qajar ear. A special cooling system pumped water form a subterranean system of streams (qanats) into small ponds inside the chambers. This system is no longer in use. European paints housed here.
Negar Khaneh. Here are the paintings of the royal court, with the European paints housed in the Hose Khaneh and the works of Iranian painters housed in the Negar Khaneh (the Gallery). Meant to show the evolution of painting in Iran during the Qajar era, the works of Iranian painters are exhibited in two sections. Housed in the southern part of the Negar Khaneh are the works of early Qajar masters such as Mirza Baba, Mehr Ali Afshar, Ali Akbar Khan Mozaien-ol-Douleh, Aboul Hassan Sani (Sanie-ol-Molk) who was Kamal-ol-Molk’s uncle.
Talar Berelian. The Hall was built by Nasser-ol-Din Shah build to replace another hall called Talar Bolour (Crystal Hall). Built by Fath Ali Shah the Bolour Hall had been laid waste by the damp. The Berelian Hall is famous for its mirror work and chandeliers.

Takht Marmar. A spectacular terrace (iwan) was built in 1806 by order of Fath Ali Shah Qajar (r. 1797-1834). Adorned by paintings, marble-carvings, tile-work, stucco, mirrors, enamel, woodcarvings, and lattice windows; the throne embodies the finest of Iranian architecture. The Marble Throne is one of the oldest buildings of the historic Arg. The existing throne, which is situated in the middle of the terrace (iwan), is made of the famous yellow marble of Yazd province.
Khalvat Karim Khani. This building was a part of the interior residence of Karim Khan Zand. The basic structure of its is similar to Takht-e-Marmar. There is a small marble throne inside the terrace. The structure is much smaller than Takht-e-Marmar and it has much less ornamentation. It seems extraordinary, but the valuable gravestone of Nasser-ol-Din Shah found its way to this quite corner of the Palace. This marble stone with a craved image of Nasser-ol-Din Shah is indeed a site to behold.
Hoze Khaneh. The Hoze Khaneh was used as a summer chamber during the Qajar ear. A special cooling system pumped water form a subterranean system of streams (qanats) into small ponds inside the chambers. This system is no longer in use. European paints housed here.
Negar Khaneh. Here are the paintings of the royal court, with the European paints housed in the Hose Khaneh and the works of Iranian painters housed in the Negar Khaneh (the Gallery). Meant to show the evolution of painting in Iran during the Qajar era, the works of Iranian painters are exhibited in two sections. Housed in the southern part of the Negar Khaneh are the works of early Qajar masters such as Mirza Baba, Mehr Ali Afshar, Ali Akbar Khan Mozaien-ol-Douleh, Aboul Hassan Sani (Sanie-ol-Molk) who was Kamal-ol-Molk’s uncle.
Talar Berelian. The Hall was built by Nasser-ol-Din Shah build to replace another hall called Talar Bolour (Crystal Hall). Built by Fath Ali Shah the Bolour Hall had been laid waste by the damp. The Berelian Hall is famous for its mirror work and chandeliers.

Niavaran Palace, Pourebtehaj/Pvrabthaj (پورابتهاج) (from Tajrish Metro Station 4.5 km E; taxis leave from Tajrish Square; ask to be dropped off at Niavaran Square ("maydoone Niavaran"); a taxi "dar baste" should cost 20,000-30,000 rials; while there are taxis at the front gate, on leaving the palace a cheaper option is to use a municipal bus which terminates at Tajrish Square; look for a bus stop on Niavaran St. that is close to a branch of the Refah Bank, +98 21 2228 2012. This is a historical complex which consists of several buildings and a museum. The Saheb-Qaranieh Palace (صاحبقرانیه), from the time of Naser al-Din Shah of Qajar dynasty, is also inside the complex. - Jahan Nama Museum(کاخ‌موزه‌های نیاوران): Niavaran Palace, Niavaran Ave., phone +98 21 228 2012, Fax: +98 21 228 2079. - Cinema Museum(موزه سینمای ایران): Niavaran Palace Museum, Niavaran, +98 21 228 2012/5.

Masoudieh palace, +98 21 3399 2013. 08:00 - 17:00. Built in 1879 for the prince Mass’oud Mirza - the son of Nasseredin Shah, the governor of Isfahan. 200,000 rials.

Safir Office Machines Museum, No. 232, Kalantari? Cross, North Iranshahr street?, (خیابان ایرانشهر) (From M Ferdosi North?, +98 21 8832 0320. F 11:00-16:00, Sa-W 09:00-19:00, Th 09:00-18:00. It was founded in 2008 by Frashad Kamalkhani, the museum owner. It includes a collection of early office machines.

Saad Abad Fine Arts Museum, Darband, Zafaraniyeh, Tajrish, Valiasr St (from M: Tajrish 1.5 km NW. Built in Neoclassical style, in 1920.

Glassware Museum of Tehran, Behjat Abad.- Jomhoori (or Jomhouri?) Ave., or Republic Street?, Sytyr (30th Tir) St, No. 55-75?; (from M: Hassan Abad 0.7 km NE, +98 21 670 8153. Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. 25,000 rials for foreign tourists, 2,500 rials for Iranian adults.

Iran's National Rug Gallery & Carpet Museum, Dr Fatemi (دکتر فاطمی) (from M: Enqelab-Eslami 1.5 km N, near to Laleh Park, Fatemi & North Kargar intersection. This exhibits a variety of Persian carpets from all over Iran, dating from 18th century to present. It has a library that contains 7,000 books.

Reza Abbasi Museum, Seyed Khandan, 972 Shariati Ave (before Seyed Khandan Bridge; it can be reached by the Resalat Freeway; from M: Aliabad 500 m NE, +98 21 863001-2, +98 21 863003. Tu-Su 09:00-17:00. Named after Reza Abbasi, one of the artists in the Safavid period, the collections of this museum belong to a period from the 2nd millennium BC to the early 20th century. 25,000 rials for foreign tourists, 2,500 rials for Iranian adults.

Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art, North Kargar Ave. (کارگر شمالی), +98 21 88963200. Th-Sa 10:00-17:30. Features the works of great artists such as Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso and Andy Warhol. The collection of these paintings were selected by the former Empress Farah Diba.

Tehran City Theater, Enghelab és Vali Cross Street (تقاطع خیابان انقلاب و ولی‌عصر) (From M Enqelab-Eslami 0.5 km east, +98 21 66460592. Architect Ali Sardar Afkhami designed the main building in the 1960s, later (1972) expanded.

Darabad Museum of Natural History, Muzeh, Dar-abad (From Aghdasiyeh Subway Station 2km N, +98 21 22803539. 20 March-20 Sept: M-Sa 08:30-20:30, 21 Sept-19 March: M-Sa 08:30-18:30 Sunday. Iran's most famous museum for nature and wildlife.

Saadabad Palace, Vali Asr Ave (The Saadabad palace and museum complex can be reached by foot from Tajrish Square. Walk up Sa'dabad St. past the Arg Shopping Center and turn left on reaching Afraz St. Turn right at the next intersection and walk down Javdan St., again turning right at the next intersection. Go all the way up to the end of Taheri St. where the south gate is located. Entrance to the park is free, but you must purchase all tickets to the museums you want to visit beforehand at the gate. Be careful of traffic while walking there!, +98 21 228 2031. A palace built by the Pahlavi dynasty of Iran in the Shemiran area of Tehran. The complex was first inhabited by Qajar monarchs and royal family in the 19th century. Parts of the Saadabad Palace compound are museums, in which visitors can roam through and look at the rich history of Iran. The following museums make up the complex: Klara Abkar Painting Museum, Hossein Behzad (miniature) Paintings Museum, Abkar Miniature Museum, Fine Arts Museum (18th & 19th century European paintings), Kamaleddin Behzad Miniature Museum, Mahmoud Farshchian Miniature Museum, - Mellat Palace Museum, Military Museum (موزه نظامی), Mir Emad Calligraphy Museum, Ethnological Research Museum, Iranian National Museum of War Green Museum (Shah Reza Summer Palace), Water Museum (keeping, restoring and revenue operation of water in Iran). Rojat Palace, Ebrat Palace (Mother), Vessels Museum (Ashraf Palace), Dafineh Museum, Farideh Diba Palace, Natural History Museum. Other buildings on complex area: Shahram Palace, Prince Palace, Leila Palace, Farahnaz Palace, Hamid Reza Palace, Gholamreza Palace, Nasiri Palace, Twin Ghajar Palace.

Green Palace. Built in 1922-1928. Main parts of it: Waiting room, Reza Shah working room, Ceremonies Hall, Reza shah Dinning room, Corridor, Reza Shah Bedroom, Ceremony Hall.
National Arts Museum. Part of Saadabad Palace; gifts to the Shahs from Chinese, Indian and African delegations.

Green Palace. Built in 1922-1928. Main parts of it: Waiting room, Reza Shah working room, Ceremonies Hall, Reza shah Dinning room, Corridor, Reza Shah Bedroom, Ceremony Hall.
National Arts Museum. Part of Saadabad Palace; gifts to the Shahs from Chinese, Indian and African delegations.

Green Palace. Built in 1922-1928. Main parts of it: Waiting room, Reza Shah working room, Ceremonies Hall, Reza shah Dinning room, Corridor, Reza Shah Bedroom, Ceremony Hall.
National Arts Museum. Part of Saadabad Palace; gifts to the Shahs from Chinese, Indian and African delegations.

Former Qasr Prison, Marvdasht? Qelichkhani?. Closed or moved? Now there is the Islamic Revolution Court? (دادگاه انقلاب اسلامی) - It was built by the order of Fat′h Ali Shah of the Qajar dynasty in 1790 in the form of a palace.

Time Museum, Asad Abad? No. 12, Baqdadi St. (Baghdadi Bahar), (Zaferanieh St., Vali Asr Ave., Farmaniye district, north of Tehran - Bus BRT 7 to 'Baagh Ferdows', +98 21 241 7336. Evolution of time-measurement instruments. In a building (700 m²) with a garden (0.6 ha).

Money Museum, No.1, Daman Afshar (نبش کوچه دفینه), Mirdamad Street (Mirdamad Blvd?), Vali Asr Ave (from Metro 'Haghani' NW 1km, +98 21 879 5994, +98 21 877 4745. Coins and banknotes from different historic periods.

Former Towhid Prison, now the Edification Museum (Ebrat Museum), 11, Martyr Yarjani St, - Kushk Mesri St. (Ferdousi Ave., Imam Khomeini Sq.(ميدان امام خميني) - from Metro 'Imam Khomeini' 300m NW. Tours daily 10:00 & 14:00. Persian:بازداشتگاه توحید . The prison of Shah ages. It was an unofficial detention centre in Tehran, used against opponents of the Islamic Republic of Iran until its closure in 2000.

Talar Vahdat Theater.

Paradise Garden, Baq-e Ferdous Park?, Delbar (From Metro 'Tajrish' West 1.1 km.

13 (Martyrs?) Aban Museum, Imam (Sepah) Sq. (from M 'Emam Hossein' NW 0.7 km, +98-21 670-1915. Sa-Th 09:00-20:00. Paintings, sculptures of people, kings, artists and scientists. Masterpieces of "Seyed Ali Akbar Sanati".

Air Force Museum, Karaj Highway (جاده مخصوص کرج) (Ekbatan Metro Station 1 km south, +98 21 600 9318.

Akskhaneh Shahr, Bahar-e-Shiraz Ave (From Haft-e-Tir Subway Station 0.8 km east, +98-21 884-8993. Ancient photos, tools and equipment.

Azadi Cultural Complex, Azadi Square (Persian: میدانِ آزادی), or Freedom Square (M: Azadi Square Subway Station, +98 21 602 3951. Azadi Tower built in 1971 in commemoration of the 2,500th anniversary of the Persian Empire, this "Gateway into Iran" was named the Shahyad Tower, meaning "Kings' Memorial", but was dubbed Azadi (Freedom) after the Iranian Revolution of 1979. It is 50 m tall and completely clad in cut marble.

Coin Museum, Imam Khomeini Avenue, Amnar (امنار) (M: Imam Khomeini, +98 21 311 1091.

Dr. Hesabi Memorial Museum, 8 Hesabi St., Zaferanieh, Vali Asr Ave (M 'Tajrish' 0.9 km, 17th street corner, +98 21 223 1676.

Ethnological Museum, 15 Khordad Sq (Sa’ d-Abad Palace?, +21 311 0653, +98 21 311 3335.

Geology Museum, Meraj Blvd?., Azadi Ave, +98-21 600-7537, +98-21 607-1981 (to 1990). Daily 09:00-12:00, restricted to schoolchildren.

Haft-Chenar Wildlife Museum, +21 573 8745. Sa-Th 09:00-18:00. Persian: تنوع زیستی حیات وحش

History Museum, Afrouz St., Pirouzi Ave., Shohada Square, +98 21 878 8680, +98 21 878 8681. Displays 500 works of art on the 200-year history of Tehran.

Iran Historical Car Museum, Lashkary Expressway, Karaj Highway (From Metro Chitgar SW 2.7 km - next to Sepah Store, +98 21 44 52 5892. Th F Sa 08:00-20:00. The collection include 45 imperial cars, 2 royal carriages and 3 motorcycles.

Iranian Electrical Industry Museum ?, Afrouz St., Pirouzi Ave., Shohada Square ?, +98 21 326 2328.

History Museum, Qobadian St., Vali Asr Ave (From Metro Haghani NW 0.5 km, +98 21 878 8683. Su-F 09:00-13:00; 14:00-20:00.

Malek National Museum and Library, Baq Melli, Imam Sq, +98 21 672 6653, +98 21 672-6613. 08:30-13:30. Art collections, coins, stamps, carpets.

National Arts Museum, +98 21 311 6329. It was part of Golestan Palace, but now it is located inside a government building. It is a small museum but with some good furniture and paintings.

Natural History Museum, 9 9 Qaem Maqam-e-Farahani Ave (M Mofateh 1 km east, +98 21 884 3498, +98 21 882 4513. Sa-W 07:00-12:00; 13:00-15:00. Natural specimens pertaining to geology, zoology, botany, fossils of plants and animals on four level.

Rassam Arab-zadeh Carpet (فرش) Museum, 7 First Boustan, Pasdaran Ave, +98 21 284 9775, +98 21 284 7911. Sa-Th 09:00-20:00. Small rug exhibit (30 pieces).

Saba House, No. 92, Zahiro-Islam St., Baharestan, +98 21 311 1246. Sa-M W-Th 08:00-16:00. Iranian Musician Memorial Museum.

Stained Glass Painting Museum, No.348, Hedayat St., (Sadi Ave.) (Hedayat & Tonekabon Intersection,, +98 21 752 6777. Tu-Sa 09:00-18:00.

Tehran University Science Museum, +98 21 611 2629, +98 21 611 2701.

Telephone, Post & Telegraph Museum, Imam khomeini Ave, +98 21 670 0503, +98-21 671-028, +98-21 674-454. Tu-Su 09:00-12:00; 13:00-15:00.

Zoological Museum.

National Museum of the Holy Quran.

Den of Espionage: the former US embassy that was stormed by revolutionary students in 1979 is now a museum. Anti-American propaganda paintings decorate the walls of the compound. Despite the official hostility, Iranians in the streets around the former embassy are friendly towards Americans and other foreigners. Taleghani metro station. Closes at 18:30. Fee: 200,000 rials (Mar 2019).

The Tabiat Bridge

Jamshidieh Park, Niavaran district, Omidvar (from M: Tajrish 3 km NE or from Aghdasiyeh Subway Station 2.5 km NW. It is one of the most picturesque and beautiful parks in Tehran. It is at the base of the Kolakchal Mountain. Mellat Park in Valiasr street is one of the largest recreation areas in the Middle-East. Niavaran Park is one of Tehran's famous and most pleasant public city parks. It is in the Niavaran district and is immediately south of the Niavaran Palace Complex. Additionally there are some large parks called "park-e-jangali" (literally "forest park") around (and some inside) the city which are very popular among the locals for picnic. The most famous one is Chitgar in the west of the city and is accessible via Karaj road.
Ab-o-Atesh Park and the Tabiat Bridge. The Ab-o-Atesh (lit. "Water and Fire") Park is one of Tehran's newest and most impressive. The highlight of the park is the Pol-e Tabiat or Nature Bridge, which offers spectacular views of north Tehran and the Alborz mountain range. Populated by the well-to-do urban middle classes of Tehran, this friendly park offers a plethora of cafes and restaurants, most of which can be found along the Rah-e Joobi or Wooden Road Food Court (رستوران‌های راه چوبی) in the southern section of the park (nearly all of the restaurants there are open only after 20:00 as it is customary for Iranians to eat dinner late in the evening). The park and its surroundings also offer other services, such as a skate park.

Jamshidieh Park, Niavaran district, Omidvar (from M: Tajrish 3 km NE or from Aghdasiyeh Subway Station 2.5 km NW. It is one of the most picturesque and beautiful parks in Tehran. It is at the base of the Kolakchal Mountain. Mellat Park in Valiasr street is one of the largest recreation areas in the Middle-East. Niavaran Park is one of Tehran's famous and most pleasant public city parks. It is in the Niavaran district and is immediately south of the Niavaran Palace Complex. Additionally there are some large parks called "park-e-jangali" (literally "forest park") around (and some inside) the city which are very popular among the locals for picnic. The most famous one is Chitgar in the west of the city and is accessible via Karaj road.

Ab-o-Atesh Park and the Tabiat Bridge. The Ab-o-Atesh (lit. "Water and Fire") Park is one of Tehran's newest and most impressive. The highlight of the park is the Pol-e Tabiat or Nature Bridge, which offers spectacular views of north Tehran and the Alborz mountain range. Populated by the well-to-do urban middle classes of Tehran, this friendly park offers a plethora of cafes and restaurants, most of which can be found along the Rah-e Joobi or Wooden Road Food Court (رستوران‌های راه چوبی) in the southern section of the park (nearly all of the restaurants there are open only after 20:00 as it is customary for Iranians to eat dinner late in the evening). The park and its surroundings also offer other services, such as a skate park.

A1one (aka Alonewriter, tanha) graffitis and street art works are a sort of interesting stuff in Tehran's Urban Space. A famous local graffiti artist is at the centre of controversy about whether his work is art or vandalism, and you can see his early works on the Tehran-Karaj Expressway, on the southern side walls UP in Ekbatan and Apadana districts. A more recent work of stencil art is found at the entrance of the Saba Art Institute. - Kolahstudio-an Art Basement, Iranian Underground Arts.

Chitgar lake in snow.

Chitgar Lake. Also known as the Lake of Martyrs of the Persian Gulf, is an artificial and recreational lake in the north of Chitgar Park. The total area of this complex is about 250 hectares; 130 hectares across the lake, and the rest of it goes for the coastal zone and resorts. The lake has good weather and a it's host of migratory birds in some seasons.

Chitgar Lake. Also known as the Lake of Martyrs of the Persian Gulf, is an artificial and recreational lake in the north of Chitgar Park. The total area of this complex is about 250 hectares; 130 hectares across the lake, and the rest of it goes for the coastal zone and resorts. The lake has good weather and a it's host of migratory birds in some seasons.

Tochal Mountain, end of Velenjak St, Zafaraniyeh (Metro line 1 to Tajrish station, then minibus (15,000 rials) or a taxi to the telecabin entry gate. From the entry gate a minibus service (10,000 rials) can take you to the 1st station, +98 21 22404001-4. Th F 06:30 till sundown, Sa Su Tu W 08:30 - 14:30. A recreation area on Mount Tochal that offers hiking trails, a ski resort, gym and other activities. It's also a great place to get some scenic views over Tehran and enjoy a little peace and quiet in contrast to the bustling city. Usually people get to the top using cable car. Embarkation point of which is at the gondola lifts' 1st station.. However, if you're energetic (or strapped for money), you can simply hike all the way up. You can also start walking and hop on one of the telecabins at the next station when you get tired. If going to the top, bring a jacket, even in summer, as the summit is 4,000 m above sea level so it can be chilly. There are lots of restaurants and cafes near the 1st station and entrance gate, and only one canteen upper on the mountain - at the 5th station. Besides, there is an alpin coaster at the base of the gondola lifts that offers a scenic ride for 200,000 rials. Tickets range from 100,000-380,000 rials depending on how far up the mountain you want to go. Skiing 650,000 rials which also has a side bonus of priority boarding the cabins.
There are also two alternative ways of hiking up the mountain:

* Darband, Darband (taxis to Darband go from Tajrish metro station. This is the alternative way to climb Tochal mountain. The walk goes across a canyon to Tochtal (مسیر کوهپیمایی به توچال از طریق دربند). Short-ride chair lift is also available here and leads to the upper platform, operates only during weekend Th–F 07:00–18:00.

* Darake, Darakeh (the easiest way to get there is to take a taxi or minibus from Tajrish Square. This is another entry point into nearby mountains. Like Darband, Darake hiking trail begins with tens of open-air restaurants alongside a stream.

Tochal Mountain, end of Velenjak St, Zafaraniyeh (Metro line 1 to Tajrish station, then minibus (15,000 rials) or a taxi to the telecabin entry gate. From the entry gate a minibus service (10,000 rials) can take you to the 1st station, +98 21 22404001-4. Th F 06:30 till sundown, Sa Su Tu W 08:30 - 14:30. A recreation area on Mount Tochal that offers hiking trails, a ski resort, gym and other activities. It's also a great place to get some scenic views over Tehran and enjoy a little peace and quiet in contrast to the bustling city. Usually people get to the top using cable car. Embarkation point of which is at the gondola lifts' 1st station.. However, if you're energetic (or strapped for money), you can simply hike all the way up. You can also start walking and hop on one of the telecabins at the next station when you get tired. If going to the top, bring a jacket, even in summer, as the summit is 4,000 m above sea level so it can be chilly. There are lots of restaurants and cafes near the 1st station and entrance gate, and only one canteen upper on the mountain - at the 5th station. Besides, there is an alpin coaster at the base of the gondola lifts that offers a scenic ride for 200,000 rials. Tickets range from 100,000-380,000 rials depending on how far up the mountain you want to go. Skiing 650,000 rials which also has a side bonus of priority boarding the cabins.

There are also two alternative ways of hiking up the mountain:

* Darband, Darband (taxis to Darband go from Tajrish metro station. This is the alternative way to climb Tochal mountain. The walk goes across a canyon to Tochtal (مسیر کوهپیمایی به توچال از طریق دربند). Short-ride chair lift is also available here and leads to the upper platform, operates only during weekend Th–F 07:00–18:00.

* Darake, Darakeh (the easiest way to get there is to take a taxi or minibus from Tajrish Square. This is another entry point into nearby mountains. Like Darband, Darake hiking trail begins with tens of open-air restaurants alongside a stream.

For information on Iranian currency see Iran#Buy.

You can exchange your currency in most banks after filling out between two and five forms, but the exchange rate in exchange offices (sarraafis) is always better than what is offered by banks. It is much advisable to go to one of these money exchange offices at Ferdosi Ave. (close to Jewels Museum). Such offices can also be found in other parts of the city, but are far more scattered. Ask them to show you a copy of their license, issued by the Central Bank of the country and/or the local guild. A list of licensed sarraafis of the whole country, in Persian (Farsi), can be found here. This list includes phone numbers and addresses as well as license numbers and dates.

Also, most exchange offices in Tehran don't exchange before 09:00, when the daily rate gets fixed.

Do not exchange your money with one of the many individuals offering to exchange along Ferdosi St. It is much riskier and illegal. They might be criminals offering counterfeit money.

As for March 2019, exchange offices in Tehran were not exchanging, and they announced lower rate than at the airport. The best rate was (surprisingly) at the airport, and higher than stated at XE Currency Exchange. Accommodation can be paid in euros, so you do not need to exchange all the money for the trip. In March 2019, they were changing 151,000-153,000 rials for €1; 170,000-173,000 rials for £1; 139,000 rials for US$1 (dollar rate as of 26 Apr 2019) - at the airport, first floor (departures).

Visit the Bazaar, very appropriate for shopping. It ranges from cheap things to very expensive luxury things. You can find almost anything in the Bazaar, from clothing to carpets, kitchen accessories, decorations, jewellery....

There are also numerous shopping malls in the city. Valiasr Street and Tajrish Square (also includes a traditional bazaar) are two of the many locations full of shopping centres in Tehran.

Grand Bazaar of Tehran, Panzdah-e-Khordad St (0.5 km SE from metro Panzdah-e-khordad. Ask for Zaid Mosque (امامزاده زید) at Northern limit of the Bazaar. Wander around Tehran's massive bazaar. The main entrance on 15 Khordad Ave leads to a labyrinth of stalls and shops that were once the engine room of Iran's commodity markets and one of Imam Khomeini's greatest sources of conservative, pro-Revolution support. As usual, shops are clustered according to the products they sell. If you're planning on heading out into remote areas, the bazaar is an ideal and cheap place to stock up on almost anything you need.
Milad-e-Noor Mall, 2nd St/Farahzadi St (north 0.5 km from Pardisan Park -.
Behjat Abad Market, Aban Street (خیابان آبان) Karimkhan St (from Shahid Nejatolahi Subway Station SW 0.7 km - east from Behjat Abad Park. For those interested in cooking, Behjat Abad Market offers a good variety of fresh ingredients all year round.
Palladium Mall, Moqadas Ardabili St (BRT Line 7, Homayooni stop (همایونی). The confectionery shop next to the supermarket is perfect for shopping souvenir sweets. Though on the pricey side by Iranian standards, the quality of the sweets is also high. Look out for the Tehranis who are wearing traditional black chadoors; they are a distinct minority among the well-to-do clientele of this ultra-modern mall.

Grand Bazaar of Tehran, Panzdah-e-Khordad St (0.5 km SE from metro Panzdah-e-khordad. Ask for Zaid Mosque (امامزاده زید) at Northern limit of the Bazaar. Wander around Tehran's massive bazaar. The main entrance on 15 Khordad Ave leads to a labyrinth of stalls and shops that were once the engine room of Iran's commodity markets and one of Imam Khomeini's greatest sources of conservative, pro-Revolution support. As usual, shops are clustered according to the products they sell. If you're planning on heading out into remote areas, the bazaar is an ideal and cheap place to stock up on almost anything you need.

Milad-e-Noor Mall, 2nd St/Farahzadi St (north 0.5 km from Pardisan Park -.

Behjat Abad Market, Aban Street (خیابان آبان) Karimkhan St (from Shahid Nejatolahi Subway Station SW 0.7 km - east from Behjat Abad Park. For those interested in cooking, Behjat Abad Market offers a good variety of fresh ingredients all year round.

Palladium Mall, Moqadas Ardabili St (BRT Line 7, Homayooni stop (همایونی). The confectionery shop next to the supermarket is perfect for shopping souvenir sweets. Though on the pricey side by Iranian standards, the quality of the sweets is also high. Look out for the Tehranis who are wearing traditional black chadoors; they are a distinct minority among the well-to-do clientele of this ultra-modern mall.

Due to Iran's refusal to sign the Berne Convention, the sale of pirated software is legal in the country. However, bringing the software home is likely to be illegal and may carry large fines or jail sentences if caught. The software might also not include the correct ID keys and therefore might not work on your computer. Buyer beware!

Places where pirated software is for sale include the bazaar at the corner of Vali-e-Asr Avenue and Enghelab Avenue, Bazar-e-Reza, Bazar-e-Iran, and the "Paytakht Computer Complex", a modern complex of seven storeys filled with computer equipment at the intersection of Vali-e-Asr and Mirdamad. The prices at the "Bazaar Reza" (at Charrah-e-Vali-e-Asr) are usually cheaper. Some of the computer equipment that is sold in Iran are cheap knockoffs.

Paytakht Computer Complex, At intersection of Vali-e-Asr and Mirdamad (from M 'Haghani' west 1.7 km.

Paytakht Computer Complex, At intersection of Vali-e-Asr and Mirdamad (from M 'Haghani' west 1.7 km.

Jewellery & gold boutiques in Geisha, Milade Noor, Karim Khaan St. Golds, gems, and diamonds.

Designer bags and shoes such as Gucci, Versace,Dior, Armani in Golestan shopping centre & Milade noor.

Prices quoted on the menu may exclude an 8% tax, a 10-15% service charge, and a 10% tip. Be prepared to add as much as 1/3 to the prices quoted on the menu.

You'll find cheap & good enough abgoosht stew in any of the places they call ghahvekhuneh (قهوه‌خانه) which you can find in any non-strictly-residential area. Just ask for a ghahvekhuneh or get this قهوه‌خانه printed and show it. Nice traditional working class ambience as a rule.

You can find several food courts around Tehran with a variety of cuisines from Thailand, India, Italy, China and Turkey.

Cafe Bork, No.6, Abdi Nejad Alley, 16 Azar St., Keshavarz Blvd., +982188985049. 10-21. Cafe and vegetarian foods.
Delsin Sandwiches, Jordan Blvd, in Golfam St. Kebab and sandwich joints are found everywhere. This one has interesting salad, and humus (lebanese mezeh). They have roast beef, chicken, turkey sandwiches that comes with fresh vegetables, like mint and basil. andwiches priced between US$2-4.
Dizi Sara, Jordan Blvd. A hangout of the rich and famous. Abgosht (meat stew) 400,000 rials.
Falafel Stalls, 15 Khordad Ave (across the road from the bazaar. 10,000-25,000 rials.
Food Court at Jaam-e-Jam Mini Mall, Corner of Vali Asr Ave & Taheri Street. A sight to see - not for the food. This is the closest thing in Iran to a pick up bar. Teenagers push the limits on acceptable clothing. Has western import products in several stores underneath. There is also a decent bakery here with western type bread.
Iranian Traditional Restaurant, 28 Keshavarz Blvd (near Agha Bozorg Mosque, underground, down a staircase east of the Canon/Konica shop. Young Iranians flirting, smoking flavored water pipe, and eating. The dizi is recommended. Dizi: 55,000 rials.
Super Star Fried Chicken (SFC). The Iranian version of KFC. Serves very good chicken burgers.
Traditional Restaurant Karimkhan, Karim Khan Bridge/Blvd.. A cozy place serving fantastic Dizi among other traditional dishes. Cute little canaries are flying around. Dizi: 170,000 rials.
Restaurant Moslem, Bazar, District 12 (North West corner of Sabzeh Meydan Square, +98 21 5560 2275. Huge (very huge!) portions that are hard to finish. That is why most of the locals pack about half the portion for take-away (free). The canteen-like place is super crowded at lunchtime and the people form a long queue. Get an ordering number at the entrance first. Upstairs you can watch the bustling square while enjoying your meal.
When in the Bazaar, don't miss out the 'Sharafol-eslam' restaurant in the Bazaar. It is very famous for its kebabs and chickens, excellent food, excellent quality, you'll never have enough. It gets really crowded though, which requires some patience.

Cafe Bork, No.6, Abdi Nejad Alley, 16 Azar St., Keshavarz Blvd., +982188985049. 10-21. Cafe and vegetarian foods.

Delsin Sandwiches, Jordan Blvd, in Golfam St. Kebab and sandwich joints are found everywhere. This one has interesting salad, and humus (lebanese mezeh). They have roast beef, chicken, turkey sandwiches that comes with fresh vegetables, like mint and basil. andwiches priced between US$2-4.

Dizi Sara, Jordan Blvd. A hangout of the rich and famous. Abgosht (meat stew) 400,000 rials.

Falafel Stalls, 15 Khordad Ave (across the road from the bazaar. 10,000-25,000 rials.

Food Court at Jaam-e-Jam Mini Mall, Corner of Vali Asr Ave & Taheri Street. A sight to see - not for the food. This is the closest thing in Iran to a pick up bar. Teenagers push the limits on acceptable clothing. Has western import products in several stores underneath. There is also a decent bakery here with western type bread.

Iranian Traditional Restaurant, 28 Keshavarz Blvd (near Agha Bozorg Mosque, underground, down a staircase east of the Canon/Konica shop. Young Iranians flirting, smoking flavored water pipe, and eating. The dizi is recommended. Dizi: 55,000 rials.

Super Star Fried Chicken (SFC). The Iranian version of KFC. Serves very good chicken burgers.

Traditional Restaurant Karimkhan, Karim Khan Bridge/Blvd.. A cozy place serving fantastic Dizi among other traditional dishes. Cute little canaries are flying around. Dizi: 170,000 rials.

Restaurant Moslem, Bazar, District 12 (North West corner of Sabzeh Meydan Square, +98 21 5560 2275. Huge (very huge!) portions that are hard to finish. That is why most of the locals pack about half the portion for take-away (free). The canteen-like place is super crowded at lunchtime and the people form a long queue. Get an ordering number at the entrance first. Upstairs you can watch the bustling square while enjoying your meal.

When in the Bazaar, don't miss out the 'Sharafol-eslam' restaurant in the Bazaar. It is very famous for its kebabs and chickens, excellent food, excellent quality, you'll never have enough. It gets really crowded though, which requires some patience.

Armenian Club, 68 Khark St (corner of France Ave - Unmarked. Look for the ornate door. Since this is a Christian restaurant, women are allowed to remove their headscarves and alcohol is served (albeit at very inflated prices). The food is Iranian - not Armenian. There is usually a piano player performing. Muslims are not permitted inside. Kebab: 300,000 rials.
Barbod Restaurant, 87 Seoul St.; Vanak Square.
Coffee Shop & Veggie Restaurant at Iranian Artists' Forum, Baghe Honarmandan, Moosavie Str, Taleghani Ave. (just behind the Den of Espionage (former US Embassy) inside the Iranian Artists' Forum building. There are two restaurants at Artists Forum, the vegetarian one is reached from inside the building (turn right as you go in) and has a terrace overlooking the park, +98 21 88310462. Fantastic place to stock up on those much needed vegetables. The menu is pure veg and very, very good. Also, great coffees and desserts at very reasonable prices. Serves pizza, sandwiches, and salads
Dizi, near Karimkhane-e Zand St. downtown. A beautiful Dizisara. With many Miniature paintings on walls and a nice meal of Abgusht (traditional Iranian soup-like food, but way heavier than normal soups), it is worth a visit for lunch. Not open for dinner.
Farid, 39 Shahid Sereni St (5-minute walk from Vali Asr Street. Speciality is the steamed blue fish.
Hani, Corner of Vali Asr Street & Motahari Street. Delicious Iranian food served buffet style.
Iran Tak, 431 Vali Asr Street (Just north of the metro station. Look for the unmarked ornate blue tile entrance and a staircase down to the basement. Ambient cellar restaurant with ornate chandelier and fountain. Popular with young people since water pipe smoking is allowed for both men and women. Try the lamb leg dishes. Complete meal with drink: 250,000 rials.
Khayyam Restaurant. Beautifully decorated, originally part of the mosque. 300-year-old building restored in 2002. Typical Iranian food.
Sofre-Khaneh Sonatee Ali Ghapoo, Gandhi Ave, +98 21 8877 7803. 12:00-15:00 & 19:30-23:00. Basement restaurant. Popular with large groups of Iranians. Very noisy. Live music starts at 21:00. Enjoyable atmosphere with waiters in traditional dress.
SPU Restaurant, Darakeh Square, +98 21 224 19494. Iranian food. Ranked as one of the best outdoor restaurants in Tehran.

Armenian Club, 68 Khark St (corner of France Ave - Unmarked. Look for the ornate door. Since this is a Christian restaurant, women are allowed to remove their headscarves and alcohol is served (albeit at very inflated prices). The food is Iranian - not Armenian. There is usually a piano player performing. Muslims are not permitted inside. Kebab: 300,000 rials.

Barbod Restaurant, 87 Seoul St.; Vanak Square.

Coffee Shop & Veggie Restaurant at Iranian Artists' Forum, Baghe Honarmandan, Moosavie Str, Taleghani Ave. (just behind the Den of Espionage (former US Embassy) inside the Iranian Artists' Forum building. There are two restaurants at Artists Forum, the vegetarian one is reached from inside the building (turn right as you go in) and has a terrace overlooking the park, +98 21 88310462. Fantastic place to stock up on those much needed vegetables. The menu is pure veg and very, very good. Also, great coffees and desserts at very reasonable prices. Serves pizza, sandwiches, and salads

Dizi, near Karimkhane-e Zand St. downtown. A beautiful Dizisara. With many Miniature paintings on walls and a nice meal of Abgusht (traditional Iranian soup-like food, but way heavier than normal soups), it is worth a visit for lunch. Not open for dinner.

Farid, 39 Shahid Sereni St (5-minute walk from Vali Asr Street. Speciality is the steamed blue fish.

Hani, Corner of Vali Asr Street & Motahari Street. Delicious Iranian food served buffet style.

Iran Tak, 431 Vali Asr Street (Just north of the metro station. Look for the unmarked ornate blue tile entrance and a staircase down to the basement. Ambient cellar restaurant with ornate chandelier and fountain. Popular with young people since water pipe smoking is allowed for both men and women. Try the lamb leg dishes. Complete meal with drink: 250,000 rials.

Khayyam Restaurant. Beautifully decorated, originally part of the mosque. 300-year-old building restored in 2002. Typical Iranian food.

Sofre-Khaneh Sonatee Ali Ghapoo, Gandhi Ave, +98 21 8877 7803. 12:00-15:00 & 19:30-23:00. Basement restaurant. Popular with large groups of Iranians. Very noisy. Live music starts at 21:00. Enjoyable atmosphere with waiters in traditional dress.

SPU Restaurant, Darakeh Square, +98 21 224 19494. Iranian food. Ranked as one of the best outdoor restaurants in Tehran.

Alborz Restaurant, Nikoo Ghadam Alley & North Sohrevardi Avenue. Many locals regard this as a fairly good chelo kababi in Tehran.
Bistango @ Raamtin Hotel, 2153 Vali Asr Street. European décor and cuisine. Serves high-end dishes such as filet mignon, caviar, prawns.
Boulevard, 3 Nahid Boulevard (on a small street heading east of Valiasr Avenue between Vanaq Square and Park-e Mellat, +98 21 2205 1947. Trendy and modern place; serves very good French and Italian food.
Dashte-Behesht. Very high class, the menu consists of different kebabs and stews. There is always live music to make the atmosphere more enjoyable.
Divan, Fayazi Blvd (Fereshteh) (SAM Shopping Center - 8th Floor, +98 21-22653853. Fusion Persian food in a luxurious setting. Consistently ranked as one of the best restaurants in Tehran.
Gilac, 15, Parc des Princes, Kordestan highway, +98 21 88 03 04 04. Specializes in fish from the Caspian Sea.
Monsoon, 8 Gandhi Street (Shahid Ghandi Shopping Center. The best Asian restaurant in Tehran, serving good Thai curries and decent sushi. European décor and music.
Nayeb, 2220 Vali Asr Street (Across the street from the Raamtin Hotel. Traditional Iranian food served in style.
Ranch, No.108, on the corner of Satari and Afriqa (Jordan) Blvd, +98 21 8865 1618. An Italian restaurant opened in 2014 by Valentino Salvi. Nice outdoor eating space.

Alborz Restaurant, Nikoo Ghadam Alley & North Sohrevardi Avenue. Many locals regard this as a fairly good chelo kababi in Tehran.

Bistango @ Raamtin Hotel, 2153 Vali Asr Street. European décor and cuisine. Serves high-end dishes such as filet mignon, caviar, prawns.

Boulevard, 3 Nahid Boulevard (on a small street heading east of Valiasr Avenue between Vanaq Square and Park-e Mellat, +98 21 2205 1947. Trendy and modern place; serves very good French and Italian food.

Dashte-Behesht. Very high class, the menu consists of different kebabs and stews. There is always live music to make the atmosphere more enjoyable.

Divan, Fayazi Blvd (Fereshteh) (SAM Shopping Center - 8th Floor, +98 21-22653853. Fusion Persian food in a luxurious setting. Consistently ranked as one of the best restaurants in Tehran.

Gilac, 15, Parc des Princes, Kordestan highway, +98 21 88 03 04 04. Specializes in fish from the Caspian Sea.

Monsoon, 8 Gandhi Street (Shahid Ghandi Shopping Center. The best Asian restaurant in Tehran, serving good Thai curries and decent sushi. European décor and music.

Nayeb, 2220 Vali Asr Street (Across the street from the Raamtin Hotel. Traditional Iranian food served in style.

Ranch, No.108, on the corner of Satari and Afriqa (Jordan) Blvd, +98 21 8865 1618. An Italian restaurant opened in 2014 by Valentino Salvi. Nice outdoor eating space.

Bahar Confectionary, Sarcheshmeh Crossroad (Beside Keshavarzi Bank. The oldest Confectionary of Iran founded 1938. birthplace of paderazi and sugar bread. Best Known for traditional Paderazi and Shekari cookies. Quality is guaranteed. Diverse range of cookies and pastries are available.

Bahar Confectionary, Sarcheshmeh Crossroad (Beside Keshavarzi Bank. The oldest Confectionary of Iran founded 1938. birthplace of paderazi and sugar bread. Best Known for traditional Paderazi and Shekari cookies. Quality is guaranteed. Diverse range of cookies and pastries are available.

For information on popular drinks in Iran, see Iran#Drink

Coffee shops are a great place for people watching as well as drinking.

There is a string of coffee shops on the south side of Jomhuriyeh Eslami Ave, a couple of hundred metres west of Ferdosi St. You can stock up on coffee beans and related paraphernalia, or even sample a cup for 4,000 rials.
Cafe Naderi - serves coffee, tea and pastries to a mix of Tehran's intelligentsia and bohemian elite. It's a great place to sit and watch hip young guys eyeing gossiping girls while old men reminisce about the "good ol' days" under the Shah.
Gramophone Cafe, Charrahe Vali-e Asr (Vali-e Asr St. - In front of Theatre building. If you want talk to your friends, you can go to Gramophone coffee shop, listen to nice music, and have a nice coffee. Some of people who work there can speak English. Ask for Beiruz.
Hot Chocolate Coffeeshop - they stock cigars and a number of European cigarettes as well. This coffee shop is on occasion, a meeting place for some of Iran's sporting elite.
Sanaee Coffee Shop, Sanaee St, 13th Street. Definitely worth it for their absolutely fabulous chocolate milkshakes. Try the 'Icepack' chain with their huge sortiment of milk- and ice-shakes. Popular with the Iranian youth.
White Tower (Borj-e Sefid) along Pasdaran Ave, Definitely worth a visit if in the area- try "White Rose" in the White Tower.

Cafe Naderi - serves coffee, tea and pastries to a mix of Tehran's intelligentsia and bohemian elite. It's a great place to sit and watch hip young guys eyeing gossiping girls while old men reminisce about the "good ol' days" under the Shah.

Gramophone Cafe, Charrahe Vali-e Asr (Vali-e Asr St. - In front of Theatre building. If you want talk to your friends, you can go to Gramophone coffee shop, listen to nice music, and have a nice coffee. Some of people who work there can speak English. Ask for Beiruz.

Hot Chocolate Coffeeshop - they stock cigars and a number of European cigarettes as well. This coffee shop is on occasion, a meeting place for some of Iran's sporting elite.

Sanaee Coffee Shop, Sanaee St, 13th Street. Definitely worth it for their absolutely fabulous chocolate milkshakes. Try the 'Icepack' chain with their huge sortiment of milk- and ice-shakes. Popular with the Iranian youth.

White Tower (Borj-e Sefid) along Pasdaran Ave, Definitely worth a visit if in the area- try "White Rose" in the White Tower.

Azari Traditional Tea House - Just north of the train station. A bit far from the center but worth the trek. The atmospehere here is unique, from the moment you enter from the beaded doorway. This is a popular hangout for people of all ages. Features an eclectic collection of water pipes and tea pots.
Chai bar, 145 North Salimi Blvd (Farmanieh, +98 21 22210310. In a beautiful historic garden in Tehran. It is an ideal place to spend late afternoons/evenings. It offers great selection of teas and coffees as well as sandwiches.
Entracte Cafe, (upstairs in a cinema on Jomhuri Ave,just west of Valiasr Avenue ). An atmospheric and bohemic cafe operated by actress Leila Hatami and her husband. Ask for the traditional Iranian tea which is amazing. They serve a fantastic brunch 11:00-14:00 on Fridays and it includes sausages, bread and brie. Damaged by fire but possibly re-opened.
Gandhi Shopping centre. For trendy cafes filled with liberal Iranians. You will find about ten coffeshops as well as a few very good restaurants, including Monsoon.

Azari Traditional Tea House - Just north of the train station. A bit far from the center but worth the trek. The atmospehere here is unique, from the moment you enter from the beaded doorway. This is a popular hangout for people of all ages. Features an eclectic collection of water pipes and tea pots.

Chai bar, 145 North Salimi Blvd (Farmanieh, +98 21 22210310. In a beautiful historic garden in Tehran. It is an ideal place to spend late afternoons/evenings. It offers great selection of teas and coffees as well as sandwiches.

Entracte Cafe, (upstairs in a cinema on Jomhuri Ave,just west of Valiasr Avenue ). An atmospheric and bohemic cafe operated by actress Leila Hatami and her husband. Ask for the traditional Iranian tea which is amazing. They serve a fantastic brunch 11:00-14:00 on Fridays and it includes sausages, bread and brie. Damaged by fire but possibly re-opened.

Gandhi Shopping centre. For trendy cafes filled with liberal Iranians. You will find about ten coffeshops as well as a few very good restaurants, including Monsoon.

In many places you can find fresh sickly-sweet carrot juice - as well as some other juices - for just 30,000 rials a cup.
By most main bazaar in Tehran you can get a drink of blended honeydew melon with ice and sugar. Its delicious and extremely refreshing on a hot day. In the summer, you can try Khakshir a locally made amazing drink which is refreshing.

For information on mobile phone operators and using the internet in Iran, see Iran#Connect

You need to use a proxy server, VPN or a software like Freegate or Psiphon to access Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and some websites; otherwise, you might see this page which shows that the site you want to access is filtered and blocked by the judiciary system. You also need to use Freegate to check your bank account balance; otherwise, your account might get blocked due to the sanctions against Iran.

Ferdosi Coffee Net - Enghelab Ave, (a few doors east of Ferdosi Square) is hard to find (look for the small sign plastered to a building) has two banks of computers.
Pars Net - one of south Tehran's hottest coffee nets, dishing up reasonable speed. It is on the eastern side of Ferdosi St, between Jomhuiyeh Eslami Ave and Enghelab Ave, across from the British embassy. They also provide fax and long distance phone services.
Coffee Net Firouzeh - In Tehran's south in the nice and very friendly Firouzeh Hotel
Iranian Trade Centre - around Valiasr Square offers several Internet cafes (coffee nets). In addition to the above caffes, there are many others in all parts of the city.

Ferdosi Coffee Net - Enghelab Ave, (a few doors east of Ferdosi Square) is hard to find (look for the small sign plastered to a building) has two banks of computers.

Pars Net - one of south Tehran's hottest coffee nets, dishing up reasonable speed. It is on the eastern side of Ferdosi St, between Jomhuiyeh Eslami Ave and Enghelab Ave, across from the British embassy. They also provide fax and long distance phone services.

Coffee Net Firouzeh - In Tehran's south in the nice and very friendly Firouzeh Hotel

Iranian Trade Centre - around Valiasr Square offers several Internet cafes (coffee nets).

With a copy of the information page of your passport and a copy of the page with Iranian entrance seal and also, your visa, you can buy SIM cards and access the internet with GPRS, EDGE, 3G and 4G technologies. SIM cards are available in places like post and government e-services offices (Persian: singular: Daftar-e Pishkhan-e Khadamat-e Dowlat دفتر پیشخوان خدمات دولت; plural: Dafater-e Pishkhan-e Khadamat-e Dowlat دفاتر پیشخوان خدمات دولت), in big shops and at the Imam Khomeini airport. At least some shops refuse to sell SIM cards to British nationals.

Mobile Communications of Iran (IR-MCI) or Hamrahe Avval همراه اول is a cellular phone company that provides SIM cards with 3G technology. You need to activate special packages to access the internet with less cost. This company has the largest cellular phones network subscribers and its numbers begin with 091. IR-MCI SIM cards have better signal coverage on roads. Irancell is another company that provides 3G service along with the other cellular phone services. Its SIM card numbers begin with 093 and 090. RighTel (رایتل) is anothe company providing reliable 3G internet connections.

Irancel, Rightel, MCI all have 4G coverage in big cities.

Irancell Wimax is one of the wireless internet networks available. MobinNet ISP Company is another service provider which provides wireless portable internet connection.

See also the warnings at Iran#Stay safe.

Considering that the population of Tehran is around 15 million, it is still one of the safer cities to visit in global terms. Violent crime is rare and exercising common sense and taking the usual precautions against pickpockets in crowded areas should ensure a hassle-free visit. Most areas are safe even late at night, although it is not advisable to take a private taxi at 02:00 for example (but the lack of public nightlife means that few tourists would be out at that time in the first place). South Tehran (or the areas south of the Tehran Bazaar) is the only area that should really be avoided after dark, as some of the more deprived neighborhoods are there.

Traffic in Tehran is very dangerous and should be considered to be among the worst in the world. Even though crossing the street might at first seem impossible, drivers usually do a very good job avoiding pedestrians. Still, try to cross the street when the locals do as there is safety in numbers. The rate of traffic accidents is disturbingly high, so faith should not be put on drivers' skills alone.

Traffic congestion is very acute in Tehran and driving habits are dangerous. Exercise extreme caution when crossing the street.

The fake police that have traditionally targeted tourists in Esfahan have also found their way to Tehran. These are usually uniformed men in unmarked cars flashing fake IDs and requesting to see your passport or to search through your luggage. You should ignore such requests and head to the nearest police station ("kalantari") if you feel unsafe. However, it can be somewhat hard for the untrained eye to tell these apart from real police.

If you decide to smoke the qalyan (waterpipe or hubble-bubble), make sure that you are not unintentionally smoking opium or any other kind of drug. Although drugs and alcohol are illegal in Iran, it is not impossible to get them, especially in Tehran. The government has banned smoking qalyan and cigarettes in public places, so finding a good place to smoke can be a challenge. If you really want to try the qalyan, do it only at a qahvekhane recommended by a Western guidebook or travel website.

Police: 110 (has English-speaking operators)
Fire department: 125
EMS: 115
Road EMS: 115 or 112
Road Status Information: 141

The traffic in Tehran is horrendous. To get a break from it, head to the parks in the north of the city.

Azerbaijan Azerbaijan, Sherzad Avenue, Rastovan str. 16, +98 21 22 56 31 46.
China China, No. 13 Narenjestan 7th Pasdaran Ave, +98 21 2229 1240.
Finland Finland, No. 2, Haddadian St., Mirzapour St. (former Soheil St.), Dr. Shariati Ave., +98 21 23 512 000. Su-Th 09:00-12:00.
Germany Germany, Ferdowsi Ave., No 320-324, +98 21 3999 0000.
Greece Greece, 43 Esfandiar Av., Africa Express Way, +98 21 22050533, +98 91 2158 2533 (Emergencies).
Indonesia Indonesia, 180, Ghaemmagham Farahani Ave., +98 21 8871-6865, +98 21 8871-7251, +98 21 8855-3655. Also accredited to Turkmenistan.

Russia Russia, 39, Nofel Loshato (Neauphle Le Château) St., +98 21 66-70-11-61. Su-Th 08:00-18:00.
Serbia Serbia, 9th Street, nr. 9, Velenjak, +98 21 2241 2569.
Switzerland Switzerland, No. 2 Yasaman Street Sharifi Manesh Ave., +41 58 4 64 18 21, +98 21 22 00 83 33.
Turkey Turkey, 314, Ave. Ferdowsi, +98 21 311 8997.
Ukraine Ukraine, 44, Velenjak st., +98 21 22404081, +98 21 22404082.
United States Foreign Interests Section of the Embassy of Switzerland, No. 39, Shahid Mousavi St. Golestan 5th, Pasdaran Ave, +98 21 22 54 21 78, +98 21 22 56 52 73. The Interests Section serves as a de facto United States embassy and consulate to Iran under the protecting power of the Swiss Embassy.

If the hustle and bustle of Tehran becomes too much, it's possible to go to the Caspian Sea for a day or two. The holiday town of Ramsar is about five hours away, and the drive across the Alborz Mountains is spectacular. A taxi round-trip for a day shouldn't set you back more than 500,000 rials (ask for taxis near Azadi Square).
Namakabrud, Chalus County, Mazandaran Province (190 km North.-about 4.5 hours away. Villa city and gondola lift in beautiful green coasts of Caspian Sea. - Violet and box-tree parks
Qom — about 2 hours away southwest of Tehran by bus and one hour by car (120 km) is the most religious city of Iran followed by Mashhad
Shemshak ski resort, Rudbar-e Qasran District, Shemiranat County, Tehran Province (1–2 hours north-east of Tehran in the Alborz Mountains.. its steep slopes are considered appropriate for expert skiers and boarders. The slopes lie at an altitude of 2550m to 3050m above sea level.
Dizin ski resort, Tehran Province (70 km north of Tehran. This is a larger ski resort with more facilities and is considered better for beginners and intermediates. The resorts generate some rivalry amongst the locals, with some 'Shemshakis' looking upon those who ski in Dizin as 'kids in the park' and see Shemshak as the place for 'true skiers'. The ski season: from December to May.
Sorkheh Hesar National Park, Rey County, Tehran Province (17 km East from Tehran - Near by Ray - Tehran 20th Distric - By car from Khojir Road 14 km (8.7 mi) to Khojir, branches off in Zereshki Fork.. Perfect birdwatching place at an altitude of 1,547 m.

If the hustle and bustle of Tehran becomes too much, it's possible to go to the Caspian Sea for a day or two. The holiday town of [[Ramsar]] is about five hours away, and the drive across the Alborz Mountains is spectacular. A taxi round-trip for a day shouldn't set you back more than 500,000 rials (ask for taxis near Azadi Square).

Namakabrud, Chalus County, Mazandaran Province (190 km North.-about 4.5 hours away. Villa city and gondola lift in beautiful green coasts of Caspian Sea. - Violet and box-tree parks

[[Qom]] — about 2 hours away southwest of Tehran by bus and one hour by car (120 km) is the most religious city of Iran followed by [[Mashhad]]

Shemshak ski resort, Rudbar-e Qasran District, Shemiranat County, Tehran Province (1–2 hours north-east of Tehran in the Alborz Mountains.. its steep slopes are considered appropriate for expert skiers and boarders. The slopes lie at an altitude of 2550m to 3050m above sea level.

Dizin ski resort, Tehran Province (70 km north of Tehran. This is a larger ski resort with more facilities and is considered better for beginners and intermediates. The resorts generate some rivalry amongst the locals, with some 'Shemshakis' looking upon those who ski in Dizin as 'kids in the park' and see Shemshak as the place for 'true skiers'. The ski season: from December to May.

Sorkheh Hesar National Park, Rey County, Tehran Province (17 km East from Tehran - Near by Ray - Tehran 20th Distric - By car from Khojir Road 14 km (8.7 mi) to Khojir, branches off in Zereshki Fork.. Perfect birdwatching place at an altitude of 1,547 m.