15 Important Things to Know Before Visiting Iran

15 Important Things to Know Before Visiting Iran

Most of my knowledge and perception of Iran was from international news channels, as such I often viewed it with transmitted suspicion and fear. It is seen as a rogue state that sponsors terrorism and destabilises the Middle East. Then I chanced on an episode titled Rick Steves’ Iran from the Rick Steve’s YouTube Chanel. From the video learnt about Iran’s rich and glorious past and had a sneak peek into Iranian life a decade ago in its historic capital and in a countryside village.

From the triggered research I discovered Iran is a country with a rich history and culture that unfortunately remains largely misunderstood in much of the world today. For the adventurous traveller who can look past negative stereotypes, touring Iran offers an opportunity to experience ancient sites, architectural masterpieces, stunning natural landscapes, and the famous Persian hospitality.

However, Iran’s complex political and social dynamics do present some challenges for tourists. Restrictions remain on what visitors can photograph or where they can travel without guides. While Iranians are generally very welcoming to foreigners, the government continues to harbor distrust towards the West. And U.S. travelers in particular should be aware that there is no U.S. embassy in Iran that can provide consular services. Here are 15 Important things to know before visiting Iran.

 

1.  Apply for Your Iranian Visa Early

A visa is mandatory for all foreigners visiting Iran, so apply months in advance of travel. Start visa process at least 12 weeks out as processing can take weeks, depending on nationality. Having all documents and passages booked early helps accelerate the bureaucratic wheels. Those with any proof of previous travel to Israel cannot obtain an Iranian visa.

This also applies if you have Israeli neighbour country stamps in your passport like Jordan or Egypt. Do thorough prep work and allow ample time to arrange your entry visa through the proper Iranian diplomatic channels well prior to departure. Visa delays disrupt travel so be vigilant and apply early.

2.  Iranian Hospitality: Expect a Warm Persian Welcome That Opens Doors

When you arrive in Iran, be prepared for the famous Persian hospitality that has welcomed weary travellers for millennia along the ancient Silk Road. Locals take great pride in receiving foreign guests with  generosity and sincerity. Don’t be surprised if you receive impromptu invitations to an Iranian family’s home for traditional meals or tea. This embodies the core Iranian spirit of hospitality – a genuine desire to make visitors feel at home and build cross-cultural bridges.

Accept such heartfelt gestures graciously as they come from a place of friendliness, not mere formality. Over mealtime chats, you can gain deeper insights into Persian culture and customs from your eager hosts. This hospitality also opens doors to tourism opportunities not listed in any guidebook. Remain open to spontaneous offers from locals wanting to share their version of Iranian awesomeness with you. 

3.  Dress Etiquette: Cover Up to Show You Care

 

As an Islamic society, Iran upholds modest conservative dress codes, especially for female visitors who must keep arms, legs, and hair covered when in public. While this strict policy may seem restrictive initially, embracing appropriate attire is about showing regard for local customs. And it often leads to more open and friendly exchanges as you demonstrate willingness to follow Iran’s norms. Both men and women should opt for loose, non-transparent clothing made of opaque fabrics.

Keep colors muted when selecting your Iranian wardrobe. Since fashion can be open to interpretation, when in doubt, dress on the more conservative side to prevent causing any offense with revealing styles. You’ll get more goodwill and get better reception from Iranians by covering up following their etiquette.

4.  Basic Farsi Phrases will Endear you to Iranians 

While many educated Iranians have a decent grasp of English, taking the effort to learn some fundamental Farsi phrases and expressions can greatly enrich your time interacting with locals. Iranians sincerely appreciate when visitors try to speak even simple Farsi words and greetings. Use common courtesy expressions like “salaam” for hello and “mam’noon” for thank you.

Ask “hal-e shoma chetoreh” to inquire how someone is doing. Being able to exchange pleasantries and make small talk in Farsi can help break down barriers faster. As you converse with everyday Iranians, sprinkle in some Farsi to delight them and open more doors to meaningful exchanges. Discover the power of embracing Farsi to connect – even just key words and phrases endear foreigners. 

5. Cash Rules: Carry with you USD And Euros

Due to strict banking restrictions on Iran, debit and credit cards issued by foreign banks are largely unusable. Carrying wads of physical US dollar and Euro cash is mandatory for visitors. Exchange only what you need at a time at official certified currency exchanges for optimal rates. It’s wise to have small change for rides, snacks, etc.

While cumbersome to handle cash alone, it’s the only reliable payment method for tourists. Cash is key when budgeting and for all transactions as an outsider. Some vendors accept debit cards on Iran’s domestic network, but don’t rely on plastic. Ensure you have sufficient cash for daily expenditures during your Iranian trip.

6. Iranian Tea Culture is a Gateway to History and Friendship

Tea isn’t merely a beverage in Iran but the hub of social rituals and hospitality. Join locals in quaint neighborhood teahouses and lively bazaar pits to sip delicate glasses of aromatic Persian tea. Let the fragrant citrus-scented steam transport you through centuries of tradition as you partake alongside locals. With impressive hospitality instincts, Iranians frequently treat curious newcomers to complimentary tea and snacks. So, partake freely and absorb Iran’s relaxed tea culture – the perfect conversation lubricant for new connections. Make friends while drinking in rich history. 

7. Step into Iran Past through its Historical Sites

With exquisite ruins like Persepolis and Esfahan, Iran holds some of the world’s most precious historical treasures spanning over two millennia. As the former heart of ancient empires, sublime sites narrate millennia-old stories at every turn. To properly immerse yourself in Iranian history, consider hiring a local guide.

Their poetic descriptions and lesser-known insights can resurrect the ruins and relics to help navigate this open-air museum. Follow their lead through the layers of history etched in every stone. Stand in awe within the very walls where kings and heroes walked. Wander through ages past as you walk step back in time.

8. Outsmart Iran Website Blocks with VPN Lifeline

Accessing global websites and apps is restricted under Iran’s internet censorship rules, including social media. To navigate freely, install a robust VPN service on all your devices before arrival. This allows you to securely bypass site blocking to stay seamlessly connected with loved ones back home. It also lets you share dazzling photos and adventures from your trip in real-time across any digital platform, free from Iran’s virtual barriers. Don’t risk your trip going dark, get set up with a trusty VPN lifeline. 

9. Sacred Fridays: Plan Around Special Hours

In the Islamic tradition, Friday is a holy day of worship and rest. Accordingly, many businesses, tourist sites, and services in Iran operate under limited hours or close entirely on Fridays. As you chart your itinerary, schedule activities accordingly and prepare for closures or curtailed Friday operations.

Alternatively, attending Friday communal prayers at a neighborhood mosque can provide memorable cultural immersion to experience Iran’s religious devotion firsthand. Dress modestly, avoid flashy technology, be respectful, and gain perspective on spiritual traditions underpinning Iranian society.  

10. Always ask for Permission before Photographing People

While Iran’s dazzling landscapes and scenes make Instagrammable moments around each corner, exercise courtesy when photographing local people, especially women. Unlike tourist mentality, privacy and modesty are paramount in Iranian culture. Sensitively ask permission before snapping shots of any individual or family as many shy from photos. Seek consent verbally and through nonverbal cues. While photographing public spaces is acceptable, understand cultural norms shunning invasion of privacy. When in doubt, refrain out of respect. Build bridges through culturally aware photography.

11. Iran is Safer than You Think 

Contrary to prevalent misconceptions, Iran proves remarkably safe for foreign visitors. Exercise standard travel precautions, and you’ll likely discover Iranians going out of their way to ensure your protection and well-being. Locals take hospitality seriously and will spontaneously guide, advise, and assist bewildered outsiders.

Authorities maintain rigorous enforcement keeping violent crime rare, even in dense cities. While tensions exist between governments, people separated from politics warmly receive global guests seeking cultural exchange. Walk confidently knowing someone local has your back should difficulties arise. 

12. Bargaining is a Common Practice in Iranian Markets (bazaars)

In Iranian bazaars and markets, bargaining isn’t just expected – it’s an intrinsic part of commerce culture. Whether shopping for saffron, spices, or elaborate Persian rugs, be prepared to flex your haggling chops for the best deals. Sharpen those negotiation skills before arriving. Vendors advertise higher starting prices, expecting customers to counteroffer lower then “meet in the middle.”

Don’t accept initial quotes. Channel your inner bazaar merchant and master the Iranian bargaining dance. Have fun going back and forth until you reach an acceptable compromise. It’s a game – and securing bargains becomes addictive!  

13.  Stick to Bottled Water in Iran

To prevent any gastric issues, health experts advise sticking to bottled water for drinking and oral hygiene. Tap water safety standards can vary across Iran’s villages and cities. Locals also predominantly prefer bottled options when possible due to ingrained wariness, despite municipal water treatment. Opt for factory-sealed water bottles, sparkling or still. Consider buying a reusable bottle to refill. Getting sick can ruin your trip – not worth risking. Heed the cardinal rule: when in doubt, bottled wins out! 

14. Festive Moments: Time Your Trip to Iran Right  

Beyond ancient ruins, Iran pulsates with modern energy through various annual festivals and events. Planning your visit to coincide with celebrations like Persian New Year Nowruz or religious events like Ramadan offers glimpses into Iran’s living culture.

Catch public concerts, art shows, culinary fairs and more. Tapping into the festive heartbeat lets you interface with locals at their joyous best, dancing and mingling freely. Time your Iranian trip to witness these lively occasions that kaleidoscopically capture the country’s diverse traditions in their full glory. Check calendars and join the festivities!

15.  Take Note! Iran has an Exit Fee

When exiting Iran, be prepared to pay an airport tax in local currency. Have at least 200,000* to 300,000* Iranian Rial cash on hand to cover this departure fee without last-minute scrambling. While you’ll primarily use US dollars or euros in Iran, having some Rials comes in handy for incidentals.

Before flying home, you must pay the exit tax at the airport check-in counter, only acceptable in local money. Save yourself stress during departures by securing ample Rials throughout your journey for the exit fee and other periphery expenses like snacks or transportation. Visit ATMs to withdraw Iranian money so you have a sizeable buffer.

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Iran is a complex and often misunderstood country, but one that is certainly worth visiting for the inquisitive traveller. As with travelling anywhere, it pays to be fully prepared by researching important customs, laws, security issues, and practical travel information. While Iran has conservative values and numerous cultural differences from the West, its people are generally quite warm and hospitable to foreigners. By dressing modestly, following basic Islamic cultural norms, being wary of government interactions, and avoiding risky activities, your time exploring the impressive Persian ruins, aromatic bazaars, and welcoming tea houses of Iran will likely be fulfilling and eye-opening.