14 Days 13 Nights
Daily Tour
7 people
English
Travel deep into Iran’s ancient past on this carefully designed 14-Day Iran Archaeology Tour, created for travelers who want to understand the civilizations, empires, cities, and monuments that shaped one of the world’s most important historical regions. Rather than simply visiting Iran’s famous landmarks, this archaeology-focused journey connects archaeological sites across the country, revealing how different civilizations developed, interacted, and left their mark on the Iranian landscape.
Beginning in Tehran, you’ll visit the National Museum of Iran before traveling west to Hamedan, Kermanshah, and Bisotun, where the archaeological record spans ancient kingdoms and some of the most important inscriptions and monuments of the Near East. The journey continues into Khuzestan, where you’ll explore Susa, Chogha Zanbil, and the Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System, tracing the story of Elamite civilization, ancient urban life, and sophisticated water engineering.
From there, discover the Sassanian world at Bishapur and its remarkable rock reliefs before reaching Shiraz, the gateway to the monumental landscapes of Persepolis, Naqsh-e Rostam, Naqsh-e Rajab, and Pasargadae. These sites offer an extraordinary opportunity to examine the political, religious, artistic, and architectural achievements of the Achaemenid and Sassanian periods in their original settings.
The journey also includes Isfahan and Kashan, allowing you to see how Iran’s archaeological heritage connects with later Persian architecture, urban development, gardens, and artistic traditions. Throughout the tour, expert interpretation and carefully selected sites help place each monument within its wider historical context.
Whether you are an archaeologist, historian, academic, heritage enthusiast, or simply a traveler fascinated by ancient civilizations, this tour offers a deeper way to experience Iran. Follow the archaeological story of Iran from Elamite cities and ancient inscriptions to Achaemenid capitals and Sassanian monuments—and discover the layers of history beneath the modern country.
Welcome to Iran. When you arrive in Tehran, our team will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel.
After some rest, you will join an introductory lecture that gives you a clear overview of Iran’s long history and the sites you will visit during the tour.
If time allows, you will visit the Reza Abbasi Museum, where you can see fine examples of ancient Persian art. Later, enjoy a walk on the Tabiat Bridge, a modern landmark where people gather and enjoy the city atmosphere.
Overnight in Tehran.
Your day begins with a lecture that helps you better understand Iran’s archaeological timeline.
Then, you visit the National Archaeological Museum, where objects from prehistoric times to the Sassanian period are displayed in a clear and meaningful way.
Next, you explore the Golestan Palace, a UNESCO-listed complex with beautiful halls and gardens from the Qajar era.
In the afternoon, you visit the Treasury of National Jewels, where royal treasures are kept. If it is closed, you will visit the Glassware and Ceramics Museum instead.
Overnight in Tehran.
Today you leave Tehran and travel west to Hamedan, one of the oldest cities in the world. Your first visit is the Hegmataneh Archaeological Site, where the remains of an ancient city are still visible.
You then visit the Tomb of Avicenna, dedicated to one of Iran’s most important historical figures.
Your day ends at Ganjnameh, where inscriptions from Darius and Xerxes are carved into the mountains. The natural setting makes this visit especially memorable.
Overnight in Hamedan.
Today you visit the Ali Sadr Cave, one of the largest water caves in the world. You move through the cave by boat, surrounded by quiet and natural rock formations.
Next, you stop in Lalejin, a town known for its long tradition of pottery making.
On the way to Kermanshah, you visit the Anahita Temple in Kangavar. This large structure was built to honor a goddess connected to water and nature.
Overnight in Kermanshah.
Your day starts at Bisotun, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you will see a large inscription ordered by Darius the Great, carved into a high rock wall.
You then visit Tekyeh Biglarbeygi, known for its detailed mirror work from the Qajar period. Next is the Zagros Paleolithic Museum, which presents early human history in this region.
Your final stop is Taq-e Bostan, where detailed rock carvings from the Sassanian period show royal ceremonies and scenes.
Overnight in Kermanshah.
Today you travel through the Zagros Mountains to Khorramabad. Here, you visit Falak-ol-Aflak Fortress, a large structure from the Sassanian period that now serves as a museum.
You then continue to Susa, one of the most important ancient cities in Iran. During your visit, you stop at the Tomb of Daniel, a respected religious site.
After a full day of travel and exploration, you arrive in Shushtar.
Overnight in Shushtar.
Your morning begins at the Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System, a UNESCO site that shows advanced water management from ancient times.
Next, you visit the ruins of Haft Teppe, an important site from the Elamite period.
Your final stop is the Ziggurat of Choqa Zanbil, a large stepped structure built over 3,000 years ago for religious purposes. After the visit, you continue to Ahvaz.
Overnight in Ahvaz.
Today you travel toward Shiraz. On the way, you visit Bishapur, an ancient Sassanid city with visible remains of its layout and buildings.
You also explore the rock carvings at Tangeh Chogan, which show historical scenes and royal achievements.
By evening, you arrive in Shiraz and check into your hotel.
Overnight in Shiraz.
Your day begins at the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, known for its colorful windows and soft morning light. Next, you visit the Narenjestan Garden, a calm and elegant place with traditional design.
You continue to the Vakil Bazaar, where you can walk among shops selling local crafts and goods.
In the afternoon, you visit the Eram Garden, a peaceful space filled with greenery. Your day ends at the Tomb of Hafez, where many people come to enjoy poetry and quiet moments. You may also visit the Shah Cheragh Shrine.
Overnight in Shiraz.
Today you take a trip to Firouzabad, an important Sassanid site.
You begin at Qaleh Dokhtar, a fortress built on a mountain slope with wide views of the area.
Next, you visit the Palace of Ardashir, located below the fortress. The structure shows early Sassanid architecture.
You also explore the ancient city of Goor, known for its circular design, which was advanced for its time. After the visit, you return to Shiraz.
Overnight in Shiraz.
Today you visit some of the most important sites from the Achaemenid period. You start at Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the empire. The ruins still show detailed carvings and large structures.
Next, you visit Naqsh-e Rajab, where you see rock reliefs from the same era.
You then continue to Naqsh-e Rostam, where royal tombs are carved into the cliffs.
Your day ends at Pasargadae, the resting place of Cyrus the Great.
Overnight in Pasargadae.
Today you travel to Isfahan, one of Iran’s most beautiful cities. After arrival, you visit Naqsh-e Jahan Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of the city.
Here, you explore the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, the Shah Mosque, and the Ali Qapu Palace, each showing fine Safavid design.
In the evening, you walk along Si-o-Se Pol and Khaju Bridge, where the atmosphere is calm and lively at the same time.
Overnight in Isfahan.
Your day begins at the Friday Mosque of Isfahan, a place that shows over a thousand years of architectural development. Next, you visit Chehel Sotoun Palace, known for its painted halls and garden setting.
You then travel to Kashan, where you visit the Fin Garden, a classic Persian garden.
You also explore Tepe Sialk, one of the oldest archaeological sites in Iran.
In the evening, you return to Tehran and stay near the airport.
Overnight in Tehran.
Your journey comes to an end today. You will be transferred to the airport for your departure.
As you leave Iran, you take with you a deeper understanding of its history, from ancient civilizations to great empires, along with many lasting memories.
We hope to welcome you again in the future. Safe travels!
This tour explores several major periods of Iranian history, including Elamite, Achaemenid, Parthian, Sassanian, and later Persian civilizations, with visits to archaeological sites, inscriptions, temples, palaces, cities, and monuments associated with these periods.
This Tour visits 12 UNESCO World Heritage properties in Iran, including Golestan Palace, Hegmataneh, Bisotun, Susa, Chogha Zanbil, the Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System, the Sassanid Archaeological Landscape, Persepolis, Pasargadae, Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the Jameh Mosque of Isfahan, and the Persian Gardens.
Yes. You don't need an academic background in archaeology to join. The itinerary is designed for travelers with a strong interest in history and ancient civilizations, with explanations that help put each site into its wider historical context.
The Iran Archaeology Tour places ancient sites and archaeological heritage at the center of the journey. While you will still experience cities such as Tehran, Shiraz, and Isfahan, considerably more time is devoted to ancient sites, inscriptions, archaeological landscapes, and the civilizations that shaped Iran. Throughout the tour, you will be accompanied by an archaeology expert guide, providing expert interpretation and deeper historical context at each site. The journey also includes dedicated archaeology sessions with academic experts and professionals, giving you the opportunity to explore Iran's ancient history beyond what you see at the monuments themselves.
Yes. The itinerary is particularly suited to travelers with a serious interest in archaeology, ancient history, architecture, and Persian civilizations. If you have specific academic or research interests, we can discuss possible itinerary adjustments before your trip.
Choose the Iran Archaeology Tour if your main interest is ancient history, archaeology, inscriptions, archaeological sites, and the civilizations of Iran. Choose the 14-Day Iran Classic Tour if you want a broader balance of history, architecture, culture, desert landscapes, villages, and local experiences.
Depending on their nationality, most travelers will need a visa. We can handle the visa application process for you within 3 business days and offer a full refund if your application is denied.
Booking early gives you the best chance of securing top-quality hotels, especially during high seasons like April, May, September, and October when availability can be limited.
Absolutely! While our daily plans serve as helpful suggestions, you’re free to tailor your experience. Feel free to adjust your attractions and activities once you’re in each city. If you’d like to make significant changes, such as adding extra days or altering the itinerary framework, just get in touch with our support team.
Of course! In our private tours, you have the flexibility to opt out of activities that don’t appeal to you and replace them with ones that do. Your tour is all about your preferences.
We accept bank transfers and debit/credit card payments. For certain tours, you can make a prepayment in advance and settle the remaining amount in cash upon arrival.
Yes, indeed! As this is a private tour designed just for you, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can choose the attractions and activities that interest you most, and our guides will accommodate as much free time as you need in each city.
Our private tours are available in English, and in German, French, Spanish, and Italian upon your request. If you need a guide fluent in another language, let us know and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request.
Not at all. Our private tour includes a personal driver and avoids any challenging routes, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Ladies should wear a scarf to cover their hair, a long shirt that covers their arms and reaches just above their hips, and long pants. Feel free to express your style within these guidelines. Gentlemen should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts, but otherwise, casual attire is fine.
Most international insurance companies do not cover Iran, but don’t worry—our travel insurance included in the package covers your trip to Iran.
Of course it's not mandatory, but having an Iranian SIM card will make internet access easier. We include an Iranian SIM card in your package for convenience
International credit or debit cards are not accepted in Iran. Bring cash for frequent exchanges, or consider using an “Iran Tourist Card,” a prepaid debit card available upon request from our support team.
For small amounts, you can exchange money at the airport or hotel. For larger sums, we recommend exchanging at a city exchange store with your guide’s assistance to find the best rates.
Cancellations must be made in writing before the tour departure is confirmed. Cancellation fees vary by package and season. For details, please visit our terms and conditions page or email us at [email protected].
Depending on group size and road conditions, we use minibuses, vans, or VIP buses. All vehicles are private, air-conditioned, and meet the EURO4 or EURO5 standards for safety and comfort.
If you have any additional questions, please reach out to us at [email protected]. We’ll be happy to assist you promptly.
| # | Discount group | From adult | To adult | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 Pax | 2 | 2 | 40% |
| 2 | 3 Pax | 3 | 3 | 46% |
| 3 | 4 Pax | 4 | 7 | 42% |
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A Perfect Historical Trip!