Things To Do
in Shīrāz
Shiraz is a historic city in Iran's Fars Province, famed for its lush gardens, grand caravansaries, and a rich literary heritage. It serves as a gateway to ancient Persepolis while offering a refined blend of culture, poetry, and courtyard life. The city’s climate is hot in summer and pleasantly mild in spring, making outdoor visits feasible for much of the year.
Visitors are drawn to Hafez and Saadi's tombs, timeless garden courtyards, and a lively bazaar scene that reveals everyday Persian life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Persian pastries and fresh tea. After breakfast, stroll through the vibrant streets of Shīrāz, visiting the stunning Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, famous for its breathtaking stained glass windows. Take your time admiring the intricate tile work and capturing the beauty of the morning light as it filters through the colorful glass.
After a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, head to the Zandieh Complex, where you can explore the historic Karim Khan Citadel. The citadel, with its impressive architecture and surrounding gardens, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Spend the afternoon wandering through the bazaars nearby, experiencing the vibrant local culture and perhaps picking up some unique handicrafts.
As the sun sets, visit the tranquil Eram Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the fragrant flowers and ancient cypress trees create a serene atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the garden and take stunning photographs of the beautifully designed pavilion. For dinner, indulge in a delicious Persian meal at a renowned restaurant, savoring dishes like kebabs and saffron rice.
Begin your day with a visit to the tomb of the beloved Persian poet Hafez, located in a picturesque garden filled with fragrant roses. Spend the morning reflecting on his poetry while enjoying the peaceful ambiance, as locals often come to recite verses. Take the time to explore the surrounding garden and take in the lovely architecture of the mausoleum.
After lunch at a nearby café, delve into the rich history of Persian literature at the Hafez Museum, which houses artifacts and manuscripts related to the poet. Take in the exhibits that detail Hafez's influence on Persian culture and literature, and immerse yourself in the beautiful poetry that fills the air. Later, stroll through the vibrant streets, stopping at local shops to find souvenirs inspired by Hafez's work.
As evening approaches, find a cozy spot in the garden to listen to traditional Persian music performed by local artists. The soft sounds of the tar and santur set a relaxing mood as you enjoy the enchanting atmosphere. Conclude your day with a traditional dinner at a nearby restaurant, experiencing the flavors of Shīrāz ’s culinary delights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🏨1-night stay in mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
| 🚗Local taxi short ride | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Abundant historical and cultural treasures in a compact city center
- Beautiful gardens and UNESCO sites nearby
- Warm hospitality and easy-to-navigate historic core
- Extreme summer heat can limit daytime sightseeing
- Some services rely on cash and local networks; international cards can be unreliable
- Public nightlife is limited by local norms and regulations
- "سلام" - Hello
- "لطفاً" - Please
- "متشکرم" - Thank you
- "بله" - Yes
- "نه" - No
- "این چنده؟" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Shīrāz
Visit one of these nice places.
Stained glass and vibrant color play that shifts with morning light; excellent interior photography.
A lush historic garden with fountains, long corridors, and formal plantings perfect for wide shots.
Statues, marble tomb, and patterned gardens ideal for contemplative portrait and landscape photos.
Ornate interiors and a sunlit courtyard surrounded by orange trees.
Columns, arches, and bustling market life offer dynamic street photography opportunities.
Food in Shīrāz
Shīrāz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich pomegranate-walnut sauce cooked with chicken or duck, traditionally served with saffron rice.
Must-Try!
Herb-stuffed lamb or beef stew with greens, kidney beans, and dried lime.
Saffron rice with tart barberries and tender chicken.
Rice with lentils, dill, and raisins, a comforting staple.
Flaky almond-filled pastry dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering saffron, pistachios, dried fruits, spices, and regional snacks.
Bustling market with fresh produce, nuts, spices, and ready-to-eat street snacks.
Informal vendors around central squares selling kebabs and light Persian bites late in the day.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Women often wear headscarves and modest clothing; men should avoid overly casual attire in sacred or traditional spaces.
Accept tea and snacks when offered as a sign of good will; it is polite to linger a moment.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially women; avoid photographing religious sites without consent where required.
A warm greeting with ha-salam is common; a handshake is typical among men and between men and women who are already acquainted.
Safety
Tipping in Shīrāz
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and taxis a small tip (around 5-10%) is appreciated if service is good; not always automatically added.
Cash is widely used; international cards may not work in many places. Local debit cards via the Shetab network are more commonly accepted; carry enough local currency for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures and bloom-filled gardens; ideal for outdoor sightseeing and photography.
Very hot and dry; plan early morning or late afternoon visits, stay hydrated, and seek shade in gardens.
Mild weather with occasional light rain; great for day trips to Persepolis and riverbank strolls.
Cool to mild with a chance of rain; many museums offer comfortable indoor experiences and fewer crowds.
Shīrāz at Night
Hiking in Shīrāz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A range of easy to challenging hikes offering vineyard views, pine forests, and regional scenery within a short drive of the city.
Scenic day hikes and scenic overlooks near ancient ruins, best combined with a site visit.
Airports
How to reach Shīrāz by plane.
Main gateway to Shiraz, located about 20-35 km from the city center; domestic flights are common and some international services exist. Taxis and airport shuttles connect to the city core.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest ethnic group in Shiraz; predominately Persian-speaking with rich cultural traditions.
Small communities contributing to cultural diversity in the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and enthusiastic crowds.
Traditional sport with a long history; occasional demonstrations and gym culture in the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shīrāz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetarian options are available; ask for vegetable stews or salads and request no meat stock where needed.
Rice-based dishes are naturally gluten-free; verify sauces and avoid bread or flour-thickened sauces when needed.