Things To Do
in Bandar-e Anzalī
Bandar-e Anzali is a historic Caspian Sea port town in northern Iran, nestled beside the expansive Anzali Lagoon. The city blends traditional Gilaki culture with a bustling fishing harbor and scenic waterfront promenades. Its lush surroundings, rice fields, and coastal markets create a vibrant maritime atmosphere.
Visitors come for seafood, boat trips, birdwatching, and sunset views over the Caspian horizon.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin with a serene wooden boat ride through the misty channels of Anzali Lagoon, watching pink flamingos and herons clatter among reeds. Feel the sunrise paint the water in soft golds as you drift past floating gardens and fisherman huts. Engage with local boatmen to learn traditional net-setting techniques while breathing in the crisp morning air.
Explore the Amirkabir Floating Market where vendors sell fresh oysters, smoked fish, and local vegetables from small boats. Sample tangy local cheese and sweet pomegranates as you mingle with gardeners selling water hyacinth baskets. Wander along the wooden boardwalk for panoramic views across the lagoon’s shimmering expanse.
Return to shore for a waterside tea ceremony at a rustic café while watching fishermen haul in their evening catch. Let the quiet ripple of waves lull you as street lamps reflect in the dark water. Savor a sunset snack of grilled fish seasoned with sumac before strolling along the moonlit waterfront.
Stroll along the bustling Bandar-e Anzali port where colorful fishing boats and cargo vessels line the quay. Observe fishermen mending nets and unloading crates of fresh seafood onto the docks. Inhale the briny sea breeze as street vendors call out for customers.
Visit the newly renovated waterfront promenade featuring cafes, art installations, and shaded seating areas. Indulge in a plate of freshly shucked oysters paired with a cold doogh yogurt drink while people-watching. Explore nearby artisan shops selling lacquerware, handwoven scarves, and reedwork crafts.
As dusk falls, join locals playing backgammon on seaside tables or dancing to live folk music at an open-air venue. Order a seafood feast of grilled sea bass and rice pilaf while lanterns flicker overhead. Cap off the night with a stroll under star-studded skies along the gently lapping waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌One-way local transportation | $0.20-0.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Caspian Sea and tranquil lagoon scenery
- Fresh seafood, warm hospitality, and rich Gilaki culture
- High humidity in summer can feel heavy
- Some services are concentrated in the main town; transportation to outlying areas may take longer
- "سلام" - Hello
- "لطفاً" - Please
- "متشکرم" - Thank you
- "آیا انگلیسی صحبت میکنید؟" - Do you speak English?
- "کجا است تاکسی نزدیکترین؟" - Where is the nearest taxi?
- "Help!" - کمک!
Places to Visit in Bandar-e Anzalī
Visit one of these nice places.
A long wooden boardwalk along the lagoon offering expansive water views, migratory birds, and golden-hour lighting over boats.
The harbor area with nets, shacks, and workers; excellent for candid coastal life photography and sunset hues.
Historic facades, narrow streets, and traditional Gilaki architecture framed by the lagoon and sea breeze.
Calm morning light over the Caspian Sea, with fishermen loading catch and early joggers along the shore.
Food in Bandar-e Anzalī
Bandar-e Anzalī Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Herbed rice served with fish, a Gilaki favorite popular at harbor taverns and upscale seafood restaurants.
Must-Try!
Herb-filled omelette that highlights fresh greens and eggs; a common light dish in local cafes.
Smoky eggplant purée with tomatoes and garlic, often enjoyed with bread or rice in northern Iran.
Rice with dill and beans paired with locally caught fish; a staple during seafood-focused meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning market where you can buy fresh catches and sample simple grilled fish, smoked varieties, and seafood snacks straight from the boats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees, especially in religious sites and traditional neighborhoods. In markets and casual areas, light modest clothing is expected.
Handshakes are common among men; greetings are warm and respectful. When unsure, wait to be invited to share food or tea.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets or religious sites. Be mindful of private homes and cultural sensitivities.
Safety
Tipping in Bandar-e Anzalī
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, leave a small tip if service is good and not already included. Round up taxi fares and give guides a modest gratuity if you were satisfied with the service.
Cash in local currency is widely used; some places may accept debit/credit cards in larger establishments. ATMs are common in the town center and near the waterfront.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures with blooming landscapes; ideal for outdoor markets, birdwatching, and photography along the lagoon.
Warm and humid with sea breezes; expect high humidity. Go early mornings or late afternoons; stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Mild and increasingly breezy; shoulder-season crowds decrease, making beaches and markets more tranquil.
Milder coastal winters with rain; expect overcast skies and occasional storms. Layered clothing and waterproof gear recommended.
Bandar-e Anzalī at Night
Hiking in Bandar-e Anzalī
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hillside hike starting near Masuleh with stone-paved streets, cedar forests, and dramatic mountain views.
Gentle forest and tea-garden trails offering viewpoints over the Caspian Sea and lush green fields.
Airports
How to reach Bandar-e Anzalī by plane.
Domestic flights connect to Tehran and other major cities; drive roughly 1.5–2 hours to Bandar-e Anzali.
Large international hub; many flight options; followed by a road or domestic flight transfer to the Guilan coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Main local ethnic group in Guilan; distinctive language influences local cuisine, music, and customs.
Persian is widely spoken and serves as a common language for visitors and locals alike.
A mix of domestic and international travelers drawn to the lagoon, seafood, and relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Iran, widely played in parks and community fields near the coast.
Kayaking, sailing, and light fishing are common ways to enjoy the Caspian waters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bandar-e Anzalī.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in most places; ask for plant-based stews, veggie kebabs, and eggplant dishes like Mirza Ghasemi. For seafood-heavy menus, request no fish or shellfish and look for vegetable dishes in the daily specials.