Things To Do
in Salmās
Salmās is a small city in West Azerbaijan Province, Iran, perched near the eastern shores of Urmia Lake with a mix of plains and low hills. The town blends Azeri Turkish influences with Persian hospitality, offering simple yet flavorful regional dishes. Visitors can explore its bustling markets, nearby rural villages, and viewpoints that overlook the surrounding steppe and distant mountains.
Seasonal weather makes Salmās a year-round stop, from hot summers to chilly winters.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the historic Salmās Grand Mosque, renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate tile work. As the sun rises, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the nearby bazaar, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and sample traditional Iranian breakfast foods. Afterward, take some time to relax at a local café with a cup of Persian tea while watching the city come to life.
In the afternoon, embark on an excursion to the beautiful Lake Urmia, located just a short drive from Salmās. Spend your time admiring the breathtaking views, taking photographs, and exploring the surrounding area. You might also consider enjoying a picnic by the lakeside, surrounded by nature and tranquility.
As evening approaches, return to Salmās and enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor regional dishes made with fresh ingredients. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets of the city, experiencing the warm ambiance and hospitality of the locals. End your night by visiting a traditional tea house, where you can relax and soak in the culture over a fragrant cup of tea.
Begin your day with a visit to the archaeological site of Khosrow Shah, where you can explore ancient ruins and learn about the rich history of the region. As you wander through the site, take note of the fascinating remnants that tell the story of past civilizations. Afterward, find a picturesque spot to enjoy a homemade breakfast, taking in the stunning landscapes around you.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby mountainous areas for a hiking adventure. The stunning natural beauty of the region is perfect for exploring, with trails suitable for all levels of hikers. Experience the diverse flora and fauna as you trek through lush greenery, perhaps even spotting some local wildlife.
After your hike, return to Salmās to freshen up before experiencing the local nightlife. Join the locals at a popular gathering spot to enjoy music and dance that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the area. Relish the warmth of the community as you engage in lively conversations under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range) per night | $25-60 |
| 🧺Grocery basket (weekly) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic regional culture
- Affordable travel with a relaxed pace
- Limited English outside main towns
- Restricted nightlife and alcohol availability
- "Salaam" - Hello
- "Lotfan" - Please
- "Mamnoon" - Thank you
- "Koja ast…?" - Where is…?
- "Bale / Na" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Salmās
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful light over the lake’s edge as the sun rises behind distant hills, ideal for wide landscape shots.
Cracked plaster walls, colorful stalls, and the texture of everyday commerce provide intimate street photography opportunities.
Narrow lanes with clay houses, potted plants, and shy smiles make for evocative portraits and architectural shots.
Panoramic views of plains and distant mountains, perfect for expansive landscape images.
Food in Salmās
Salmās Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A yogurt-based soup with herbs, lentils or barley, and a hint of dried mint; commonly enjoyed as a comforting meal.
Must-Try!
Grilled meat with a tangy seasoning or sauce, often served with rice or bread and fresh vegetables.
Stuffed grape leaves and vegetables filled with herbaceous rice mixture; vegetarian-friendly if prepared without meat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, dairy, herbs, nuts, and street snacks; ideal for sampling local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Women should wear modest clothing and head coverings; men and women should respect local dress codes in religious sites.
Offer tea and accept invitations politely; remove shoes when entering homes if asked.
Small tokens are appreciated when visiting families; avoid sensitive topics in initial conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Salmās
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips for service staff are appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and hotels; cash tips are common.
Cash in IRR is widely accepted; international cards may be limited; ATMs exist in towns but compatibility varies. Carry enough cash for small purchases and market visits.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry conditions with dusty winds; carry water, sunscreen, and a hat. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; nightlife remains quiet.
Mild days with cooler evenings; comfortable for outdoor walks, photography, and lake viewing without extreme heat.
Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall; dress in layers and waterproof footwear; some routes may require caution due to ice.
Moderate temperatures and blossoming landscapes; excellent for hiking, markets are lively, and outdoor cafes reopen.
Salmās at Night
Hiking in Salmās
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes with views over plains and distant mountains; suitable for a half- to full-day trip.
Airports
How to reach Salmās by plane.
Main airport serving West Azerbaijan; reachable by road from Salmās in roughly 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in the region; many residents speak Azerbaijani Turkish alongside Persian.
Smaller groups contributing to linguistic and cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport regionally; local games and informal play occur in parks and schoolyards.
Occasionally practiced in gymnasiums and during cultural events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Salmās.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy dairy-based dishes, grains, legumes, and fruit; ask for vegetable stews without meat and confirm the absence of lard or animal stock.