Things To Do
in Hamadān

Lamb rib kebab, smoky and well-seasoned, commonly served with rice or flatbread; widely available at local grill restaurants.

Must-Try!

A sweet-and-sour stew made with quince and meat (usually lamb or beef), often paired with saffron rice; you can find it in traditional eateries.

A thick, tangy yogurt-and-herb soup with rice and sometimes meat or chickpeas — comforting in cooler months and served in family-style restaurants.

Freshly baked flatbreads found in bakeries and bazaar stalls; perfect with cheese, herbs and tea.

The historic bazaar is the hub for spices, nuts, breads, sweets and kebab stalls; try local pastries, freshly baked bread and roasted nuts while walking the corridors.

Small tea houses and roadside vendors offer samovars of tea, pastries and quick snacks — ideal for people-watching and short breaks.

Women should wear a headscarf and clothing that covers arms and legs in public; men should avoid shorts in city settings. Dressing modestly shows respect.

Use formal greetings like 'Salam' and accept offers of tea if offered; guests are treated warmly and polite refusal may be repeated before acceptance.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and loud or aggressive behavior should be avoided. Be mindful in religious sites and observe any gender-segregation signs.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially women; avoid taking pictures of military installations or security personnel.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up, leaving 5–10% in restaurants for good service, and small tips for porters or drivers are common.

Iran uses the Iranian rial (IRR); cash is king for most transactions. Domestic debit cards and ATMs work for locals, but international bank cards are generally unusable—bring enough cash or use rial exchange services upon arrival.

Temperatures are mild and wildflowers bloom on the Alvand slopes; excellent season for walking, sightseeing and avoiding summer crowds.

Summers are generally warm but cooler than lowland Iran thanks to elevation; afternoons can be pleasant though midday sun may be strong—bring sun protection.

Crisp air and colorful foliage on the mountains make autumn an attractive time to visit; temperatures drop in the evening so pack layers.

Winters are cold with frequent snow in the city and on Mount Alvand—roads can be icy and some high-altitude trails may be inaccessible.

Vegetarian options include herb and yogurt soups (ash), rice dishes, eggplant stews and salads; ask for dishes without meat stock and look for fresh breads, cheeses and vegetable sides in bazaars and cafés.

Vegan choices are more limited but possible: rice with vegetables, lentil dishes and salads. Communicate clearly as many recipes include dairy or meat stock; carry snacks if you have strict requirements.

Rice-based dishes are widely available, but many breads and pastries contain wheat. Specify your needs and avoid cross-contamination in shared kitchens.

Most meat in Hamadān is halal; you should have no problem finding halal food, and mosques and prayer times are integrated into daily life.