Best Things to do in Shiraz, Iran (City Of Hafez & Saadi)

Shiraz will keeps you busy for few days, it’s a place for unique things to do, a city of sophistication that has been celebrated as the heartland of Persian culture for more than 2000 years. Known as the Dar-ol-Elm (House of Learning), the City of Roses, City of Love and City of Gardens, Shiraz has become synonymous with education, nightingales, poetry and it’s centuries old wine.

It was one of the most important cities in the medieval Islamic world and was the Iranian capital during the Zand dynasty (AD 1747–79), when many of its most beautiful buildings were built or restored.

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This is a city of poets and home to the mausoleum of Hafez and Sa’di, themselves major pilgrimage sites for Iranians. Shiraz is also home to splendid gardens, exquisite mosques and whispered echoes of ancient heritage that reward those who linger longer than it takes to visit nearby Persepolis.

Among all the tourist sites, attractions and many of it’s big parklands, Shiraz’s agreeable climate, set as it is in a fertile valley once famed for its vineyards, makes it a pleasant place to visit (except at the humid height of summer or the freezing depths of winter).

The Best Things To Do In Shiraz (Must-Have Experiences)

Shiraz offers plenty of things to do and please to visit if you’re into Persian arts, from fine mosaics and silverware to carpet weaving. This ancient city boasts a rich history and culture, reflected in landmarks like Persepolis (a UNESCO site), the Tomb of Hafez, and Nasir al-Mulk Mosque.

1. Vakil Bazaar

In every Iranian city, the bazaar is the heart of daily life—selling groceries, fueling political debates, and showcasing local crafts. Shiraz’s bazaar stands out with its vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit for tourists.

The energy here comes partly from the Qashqai nomads of the nearby mountains. Their influence is everywhere, from the colorful dresses of Qashqai women to the intricate traditional carpets on display.

Even if you’ve explored other Iranian bazaars, Shiraz offers something unique. Dating back to the 11th century, its winding alleys and stunning courtyards invite you to wander and discover its hidden charms.

2. Masjed-e Vakil (Mosque)

Vakil Mosque in Shiraz stands out with its vibrant Qajar-era mosaic tiles and intricate floral patterns. Its peaceful courtyard offers a perfect spot to admire the craftsmanship.

Karim Khan initiated its construction, making it the only major mosque from the late Zand period. Located beside the bazaar entrance, it features two large iwans to the north and south, a grand courtyard lined with beautifully tiled alcoves and porches, and a stunning 75m by 36m vaulted prayer hall supported by 48 carved columns.

The mosque is in the heart of Vakil Bazaar, the mosque’s courtyard provides a quiet escape from the market’s bustle.

3. Hammam-e Vakil (Bathhouse)

While exploring the bazaar, visit the nearby Vakil Hammam. Similar to those in Kashan and Esfahan and slightly different from the Turkish bathhouse in Istanbul, this historical Hamam showcases stunning architecture. Though few still operate, they serve as fascinating museums.

Hammam-e Vakil in Shiraz is definitely worth a quick stop. Once a popular traditional restaurant, it closed when the kitchen threatened the building’s integrity. In 2008, it reopened as a modest carpet museum, though its future remains uncertain. If open, it’s worth stepping inside to admire this classic old bathhouse.

4.Madraseh-ye Khan

Founded in 1615 by Imam Gholi Khan, governor of Fars, this theological college once housed around 100 students. Earthquakes have severely damaged the original structure, leaving only its impressive entrance portal intact. The outer arch showcases rare stalactite molding, while the tiling—rich in red hues—sets it apart from those in Yazd and Esfahan.

Madraseh-ye Khan features intricate mosaic tiling, a peaceful courtyard, and a lush garden. It isn’t always open, but the caretaker might grant entry for a small tip.

5. Arg-e karim Khan

History lovers shouldn’t miss Karim Khan Fortress, one of Shiraz’s top attractions. Karim Khan, founder of the Zand dynasty, built it as his residence when he made Shiraz the capital of Iran. After the Qajars took over, the fortress later became a prison during the Pahlavi era.

Dominating the city center (Shahrdari SQ, right net to Bazaar), this imposing structure features four massive 14-meter-high circular towers. During the Zand dynasty, it formed part of a grand royal courtyard meant to rival Esfahan’s. Its thick walls and defensive towers still impress today. Located near the bazaar, it’s worth a short detour, even just to admire from the outside.

6. Mausoleum of Hafez

Iranians often say every home must have two books: the Quran and Hafez’s poetry—many would place Hafez first. More than a poet, Hafez remains a cultural icon, loved and quoted by almost every Iranian. His verses adapt to any perspective, whether social or political. A visit to Shiraz feels incomplete without stopping at his tomb.

Many believe Hafez’s poetry offers divine guidance. In moments of uncertainty, readers open his book at random, trusting the first verse they see to reveal an answer. Outside the tomb, fortune-tellers sell cards with Hafez’s verses, sometimes chosen by a parakeet just for you.

7. Aramgah-e Sa’di

While not as popular as Hafez’s tomb, the Aramgah-e Sa’di and its generous surrounding gardens are appropriate for a man who wrote so extensively about gardens and roses. It’s a tranquil place, with the tombstone housed in an open-sided stone colonnade built during the Pahlavi era. Nearby is an overpriced underground teahouse set around a fish pond that is fed by a qanat .

8. Shah-e Cheragh Shrine

The Mausoleum of Shah-e Cheragh honors Sayyed Mir Ahmad, brother of Imam Reza, who passed away in Shiraz in AD 835. A shrine first rose over his grave in the 14th century, making this one of Iran’s most significant Shiite pilgrimage sites, after Qom and Mashhad. The vast complex includes mosques, religious schools, prayer halls, and tombs, but its dazzling mausoleum remains the highlight.

Inside, thousands of mirrored tiles reflect light, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Pilgrims gather here to pay respects, making it an active religious site. Foreign visitors must join a guided tour, provided for free at the entrance after leaving their bags.

9. Nasir-ol-molk mosque

Near Madraseh-ye Khan, Nasir al-Molk Mosque stands as one of southern Iran’s most elegant and photographed landmarks. Built in the late 19th century, its deep blue and pink mosaic tiling creates a mesmerizing sight. The real magic happens at sunrise when light filters through the stained-glass windows, casting a breathtaking display of colors.

This stunning spectacle draws large crowds, making it tricky to capture a photo without people. Still, visiting remains an unforgettable experience. The mosque’s intricate exterior tiles, earning it the name “Pink Mosque,” are just as impressive as its glowing interior.

10. Eram Garden (Bagh-e Eram)

Originally built in the 13th century by Qashqai tribal leaders, the gardens later came under the ownership of the Qavam family, who also managed Narenjestan Gardens. Over the centuries, modifications and restorations shaped its current beauty, making it one of Shiraz’s finest green spaces.

Known for its towering cypress trees, Bagh-e Eram offers a peaceful retreat and a favorite gathering spot for young Shirazis. Hidden corners throughout the garden provide quiet escapes, while a picturesque pool enhances the serene atmosphere. The Qajar-era Eram Palace stands at its center, though it remains closed to visitors.

11. Narenjestan garden

I say it’s a must see in Shiraz. Bagh-e Naranjestan is the city’s smallest garden and is famous as the setting for the opulently decorated Naranjestan-e Ghavam pavilion, built between 1879 and 1886, as part of a complex owned by one of Shiraz’s wealthiest Qajar-era families. The pavilion’s mirrored entrance hall opens onto rooms covered in a breathtaking combination of intricate tiles, inlaid wooden panels and stained-glass windows.

12. Jahan Nama garden

After being closed for years, the lovely Bagh-e Jahan Nama was reopened in 2005. It doesn’t have the reputation of Bagh-e Eram, but if you just want to hang out in the greenery, don’t want to spend for the privilege and want it to be within walking distance of your hotel, come on down.

13. Bagh-e Nazar

Bagh-e Nazar and the octagonal Pars Museum at its centre are other notable Zand-era additions. It’s possible to walk around the garden and view the delightfully decorated pavilion where Karim Khan received foreign dignitaries. The interior is stunning, with the stalactite ceiling a particular highlight. Exhibits include Karim Khan Zand’s sword and indeed, his grave. Photography is not allowed.

14. Bogh’e-ye Sayyed Mir Mohammad

In the southeastern corner of the glittering Aramgah-e Shah-e Cheragh is the Bogh’e-ye Sayyed Mir Mohammad, which houses the tombs of two brothers of Mir Ahmad. The shrine has the typical Shirazi bulbous dome, intricate mirror work and four slender wooden pillars, leading some to describe it as more beautiful than Shah-e Cheragh.

15. Ali ebn-e Hamze shrine

The Imamzadeh-ye Ali Ebn-e Hamze stands as the tomb of Emir Ali, a nephew of Shah Cheragh who also died here while en route to Khorasan to help Imam Reza. The existing shrine was built in the 19th century after earthquakes destroyed previous incarnations. It has an eyecatching bulbous Shirazi dome, dazzling mirror work, stained-glass windows and an intricate, ancient wooden door. The tombstones around the courtyard, for which families of the deceased paid a small fortune, are also interesting.

16.Jameh-ye Atigh Mosque

Walking through the southeastern (back) entrance to the Shah-e Cheragh courtyard and turning right after about 50m leads to the ancient Jameh-ye Atigh Mosque. Dating from 894 this is Shiraz’s oldest Islamic structure, though most of what you see is from the late Safavid period onwards.

17. Quran gate (Darvaze Quran)

At the northern and main entrance to Shiraz is a ravine known as the Allah Akbar Gorge because people would praise Allah when they looked from here down to Shiraz below. This is also home to the Darvazeh-ye Quran, a modern and not desperately impressive structure built in 1949 to replace two earlier gateways. The gateway holds a Quran and travellers have traditionally passed underneath it before undertaking any journey.

18. Zinat ol-Molk’s mansion

Down a small lane beside the Orange Garden is the Khan-e Zinat ol-Molk, which was originally the private, andaruni area of the complex and is named after its last owner, the daughter of the builder Qavam. Today most of the finely decorated rooms are stuffed with exhibits in the Fars History Museum, while others serve as galleries for young Shirazi artists.

Popular day trips from Shiraz (Must Do)

There are a handful of 100% recommended places to see near Shiraz, the best day trips from Shiraz, including the awe-inspiring ruins of Persepolis, the ancient necropolis of Naqsh-e Rostam, and the picturesque Maharloo Pink Lake.

Persepolis & Naqsh-e Rostam

Many travelers combine Persepolis with Naqsh-e Rostam for a day trip from Shiraz. Arriving early helps cover the vast site. Once a key city in an empire stretching from the Indus River to Ethiopia, Persepolis thrived under its original name, Parsa. It earned the Greek name Persepolis—meaning both “City of Persia” and “Destroyer of Cities”—after Alexander the Great’s army sacked it in 330 BC.

The towering rock tombs at Naqsh-e Rostam impress visitors, believed to house Darius II, Artaxerxes I, Darius I, and Xerxes I. Below, seven Sassanian reliefs depict dramatic scenes of imperial victories and royal ceremonies, with signboards explaining each in English.

Nain, or Na’een

Nain, is a small desert town between Yazd and Tehran(best to visit if you’re heading toward Tehran or Esfahan), holds historical significance as home to Iran’s oldest mosque.

The town also features an ancient castle and a covered bazaar, both slowly crumbling yet adding to their photogenic charm. Like Yazd, Nain embraces the true essence of a desert city, offering a unique atmosphere for travelers seeking history and solitude.

How to get to Nain from Yazd?

Buses heading toward Tehran or Isfahan frequently stop in Nain; therefore, it is an easy and accessible destination from Yazd. Moreover, this makes travel convenient for those exploring central Iran.

The city is generally considered a very safe for tourists. It has a low crime rate compared to many other cities globally, and violent crime targeting tourists is rare.

As of female travelers in Isfahan, it considered safe at night even if you’re a solo female. Crime rates are quite low, and locals are often polite and respectful and very hospitable.If you’re in need of help, such as emergency, try to call police, dial number 110.

Full Day Trek & Camel Ride near Yazd in Ardakan

Activities in desert towns are often combined with camel riding. For instance, head to Ardakan, a historic town just an hour from Yazd. Moreover, this desert town attracts Zoroastrians for religious celebrations in nearby Sharifabad.

After exploring Ardakan’s ruins and qanats, you can then experience camel riding deep in the desert. Additionally, hotels in Yazd frequently arrange these trips for visitors.

Local Yazd Travel Tips for First-time Visitors

Best Places to Eat in Yazd (Recommended by locals)

Yazd offers classic Persian dishes along with unique local cuisines that are actually delicious. Shuli, a hearty vegetable soup made with beets and celery, is a must-try for vegetarians. Tas Kebab e Shotor, a rich camel meat stew with potatoes, is perfect in case you’d like to try something from a desert city of Yazd.

• Orient Hostel – This budget-friendly rooftop restaurant serves delicious fesenjoon (chicken in walnut-pomegranate stew, its yummy, I promise) and shuli. Their sister restaurant at Silk Road Hotel also offers Tas Kebab e Shotor and other sort of rice dishes with Kabab.

• Amir Chakhmaq Complex – The best spot for kebabs, offering everything from liver and heart to kidneys and fat. It’s really something so local.

Best Seasons to Visit Yazd

The best time to visit Yazd, Iran, is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Spring (March–May) in Yazd brings warm, comfortable temperatures (15–30°C / 59–86°F), it’s the time when flower bloom, lush gardens, and ideal conditions for exploring the city’s historical sites and stunning desert landscapes.

Autumn (September–November) in Yazd offers mild temperatures similar to spring, making it perfect for sightseeing, desert excursions, and outdoor activities, with fewer tourists for a quieter experience.

Winter (December–February) in Yazd brings cold nights near 0°C (32°F), while daytime remains comfortable, though not ideal for desert trips.

Avoid summer (June–August) as temperatures soar above 40°C (104°F), making outdoor activities challenging in the intense desert heat.

How many days are enough for Yazd?

Yazd’s old town is where you’ll find most attractions, making it easy to explore within two days at a relaxed pace. If you are keen on day trips out of the town, add an extra day for a trip to Kharanaq, Chak Chak, as well as both Meybod and Ardakan.

Currency exchange & money matters

Sanctions certainly have disconnected Iran from international banking; therefore, ATMs in Yazd won’t accept foreign cards. Instead, bring cash in euros, dollars, or other major foreign currencies to cover all expenses. Fortunately, your hotel or several exchange places in the city, especially near Amir Chakhmaq SQ, are the best options for exchanging money.

How to get around the city

Walking through Yazd is the best way to explore, as most attractions are in the old town or near Amir Chakhmaq Square, all within a short distance. Taxis in Yazd are affordable, with options for shared rides or private “dar bast” taxis.

Best ways to get to Yazd (from other cities in Iran)

Yazd’s bus station is within a 10 min taxi ride (12 kilometers from the center), with frequent buses departs to Shiraz (7 hours), Tehran (9 hours), Isfahan (5 hours), and Kerman (6 hours).

Also, the train station offers limited services to Tehran (6–8 hours) and Kerman (7–8 hours), with Iranrail providing updated timetables. Trains from Tehran to Yazd fill up fast, so booking early is recommended.

Kharanaq, Meybod, and Chak Chak lack public transport, but taxis can cover all three in a day. Budget-friendly tours are available through the most hotels with around USD15-20.

Is Yazd Safe (especially for females)

Yazd is a very safe city (I read a lot of comment on TripAdvisor and they all conform it.), actually a very safe one, attracting foreign tourists yearly. The city experiences low crime rates, but staying cautious and following basic safety measures always ensures a smooth trip.

I actually felt very safe and secure, nobody followed me, nobody pushed me to buy this and that and people were extremely friendly.

Bottom line: Yazd, Iran, things to do & how to visit

Yazd is a true desert city built for the desert experience. Similar to Kashan, it embraces the arid landscape, but here, the heat hits differently. Even in April, the warm air felt overwhelming, making me wonder how intense summers must get.

Surviving in this harsh climate required innovation. Ancient engineers designed an underground irrigation system, known as qanats (try to visit them), to channel water from nearby mountains.

To combat the relentless heat, they built wind towers that naturally cooled homes, while ab anbars (water reservoirs) stored precious water. These domed structures, often crowned with wind towers on all sides, still dot the cityscape.

In addition, many of these historic water reservoirs and wind towers now left unconcerned. For now, wandering through Yazd’s quieter neighborhoods to discover these forgotten structures remains one of the city’s most fascinating experiences.