Things To Do
in Yazd
Yazd is an ancient city located in central Iran, known for its well-preserved adobe architecture and winding alleyways. It is famous for its unique wind towers, which provide natural cooling to the buildings during the hot desert summers. The city is also home to many historical sites, including the Jameh Mosque of Yazd and the Towers of Silence.
Yazd is a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting visitors from around the world to explore its rich history and culture.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Khodahafez" - Goodbye
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Bebakhshid" - Excuse me
- "Lotfan" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the stunning Jameh Mosque and admire its intricate tile work and soaring minarets. Stroll through the historic streets of Yazd to experience the city's unique atmosphere.
Explore the Dowlat Abad Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy its lush greenery and beautiful windcatchers. Visit the Yazd Water Museum to learn about the region's ingenious water supply methods.
Dine at a local restaurant to experience traditional Persian cuisine. Take a leisurely walk through the charming old town and catch a glimpse of the sunset over the ancient rooftops.
Head to the Towers of Silence (Dakhma) where Zoroastrians once practiced sky burial. Learn about Zoroastrian rituals and beliefs at the nearby Ateshkadeh, the fire temple.
Visit the historic Fahadan neighborhood, known for its mud-brick houses and narrow alleys. Enjoy a local café and soak in the ambiance of this serene area.
Attend a Zoroastrian ceremony, if available, to witness the living traditions of this ancient religion. Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Unique desert architecture and stunning landscapes.
- Warm hospitality of local residents.
- Delicious traditional Persian cuisine.
- A vibrant community with a mix of Zoroastrian and Islamic traditions.
- Harsh desert climate with extremely hot summers.
- Limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure.
- Economic challenges and limited job opportunities.
- Potential political restrictions on freedoms and expression.
- Language barrier for non-Persian speakers.
Best Activities in Yazd
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Walk through the winding alleys and admire the traditional adobe architecture of Yazd, including the famous windcatchers and historic buildings.
Learn about the Zoroastrian funerary customs by visiting the ancient Towers of Silence located on the outskirts of Yazd.
Explore the magnificent Jameh Mosque, which is known for its stunning tilework and the tallest minarets in Iran.
Take a desert tour to experience the stunning landscapes and unique desert culture surrounding Yazd, including camel rides and sand dune adventures.
Experience the breathtaking night sky in the desert outside Yazd, renowned for its clear views of the stars and constellations.
Tours
Uncover the best of Yazd with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Yazd
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient Zoroastrian site with panoramic views of the desert landscape.
A historic structure with a mesmerizing facade, especially beautiful at sunset.
Offering a stunning view of the city and adjacent historic buildings.
Featuring a scenic Persian garden with a tall windcatcher providing a picturesque backdrop.
Food in Yazd
Yazd Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Iranian rice dish infused with dill and broad beans, often served with tender lamb or chicken. It can be savored at Haj Khalifeh Ali Rahbar, a renowned restaurant in Yazd.
Must-Try!
A sumptuous stew comprising ground walnuts, pomegranate paste, and either poultry or meat, yielding a sweet and tangy flavor. One can relish this dish at Khan Dohad Restaurant, celebrated for its authentic Persian cuisine.
A delectable pastry filled with a delightful mixture of almonds, cardamom, and rose water, offering a delightful ending to a meal. Head to Haj Khalifeh Ali Rahbar to sample this traditional Yazd sweet.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Yazd better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling area is a hub for street food, offering a variety of local delicacies like kebabs, saffron-infused rice, and freshly baked flatbreads. The aromatic and flavorful street food can be relished at the numerous stalls lining the complex.
A labyrinthine bazaar teeming with vendors selling an assortment of fresh fruits, nuts, spices, and local snacks. Visitors can indulge in delectable street food such as falafel, ash-e reshteh (noodle soup), and nourishing aash (a thick soup) at the bazaar.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Yazd, it is important to show respect to elders by using formal language and addressing them with proper titles.
When visiting religious sites or interacting with locals, it is important to dress modestly, covering arms, legs, and hair for women, and avoiding revealing clothing for both men and women.
Greetings are an important part of Iranian culture. It is customary to greet people with a handshake and a slight bow. Men should wait for a woman to extend her hand first for a handshake.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Yazd with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Yazd
Ensure a smooth experience
In Yazd, Iran, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected to tip in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip may be appreciated, but it is not mandatory.
In Yazd, Iran, cash is the primary form of payment. Credit cards may be accepted in some hotels and larger stores, but it is always best to carry enough cash for smaller transactions and in more traditional establishments. Foreign currency exchange is available at banks and exchange offices.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Yazd.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The weather is pleasant, with moderate temperatures and blooming gardens. It's a great time to explore the historical sites and enjoy outdoor activities.
Cooler temperatures make it comfortable for sightseeing and wandering through the city's narrow alleys. The air is clear, and it's a good time for cultural events and festivals.
While it can get cold, winter is a quiet and peaceful time to visit Yazd. The desert landscapes are beautiful, and it's a good time to experience traditional Persian hospitality.
Summers are hot in Yazd, with temperatures often reaching over 40°C (104°F). However, evenings are pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. It's a good time to experience the local lifestyle and enjoy traditional summer activities.
Yazd at Night
Hiking in Yazd
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent hiking destination near Yazd, Mount Talac offers a challenging trek with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Located near the ancient village of Kharanaq, these trails provide an opportunity to explore the unique desert architecture and breathtaking scenery.
The Great Salt Desert provides an extraordinary hiking experience with its vast salt flats and unique geological formations.
The famous Zoroastrian pilgrimage site features beautiful trails that lead to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
A range of mountains to the southeast of Yazd, offering a variety of hiking routes amidst scenic landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Yazd through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Yazd by plane.
The closest airport to Yazd, serving domestic flights and some international connections.
Located approximately 320 kilometers from Yazd, this airport serves numerous domestic and international flights.
About 180 kilometers from Yazd, Kerman Airport handles domestic flights with some international routes.
Approximately 600 kilometers from Yazd, it is a major international airport in southern Iran with various destinations.
Located around 700 kilometers from Yazd, this is Iran's largest airport, serving numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Yazd, primarily speaking Persian and practicing Shia Islam.
A significant minority in Yazd, historically tied to the region, practicing Zoroastrianism.
A smaller demographic group in Yazd, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A minority group in Yazd, with cultural and linguistic ties to the Baloch people in southeastern Iran.
A lesser-known demographic group in Yazd, contributing to the region's ethnic tapestry.
The Soul of Yazd
Discover the essence of Yazd through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Yazd, with many local clubs and a strong following among fans.
Wrestling, particularly traditional Iranian styles, has a rich history in Yazd and is practiced at various cultural centers.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in Yazd, with many schools and clubs participating in regional competitions.
Basketball has gained traction in Yazd, with several teams competing in national leagues and youth programs.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Yazd, with many residents enjoying rides through the city's scenic routes.
Although less common, camel racing is a unique traditional sport in Yazd, reflecting the region's cultural heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yazd.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-based dishes are prevalent, many restaurants and cafes in Yazd offer a variety of delicious vegetarian and vegan options such as Kashke Bademjan, aubergine stew, and Sabzi Polo, an herbed rice dish, ensuring a delightful dining experience for non-meat eaters.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can savor gluten-free dishes such as Kuku, a type of Persian frittata, and Ashe Mast, a yogurt-based soup, at select establishments in Yazd, catering to individuals with dietary restrictions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Yazd with these cultural adventures.
