The story of Shiraz begins on ancient clay tablets dating back to the Elamian period around 2000 BC. Imagine stumbling upon these treasures in 1970 while digging for a brick kiln! These tablets spoke of a city called Tirazis, later transforming into the beloved Shiraz. Fun fact: in Old Farsi, it was Sirajis, possibly named after the son of Shah Thammort, though some experts debate this.
Fast forward to the Sassanid period; Shiraz was a bustling hub with castles dotting a vast plain and surrounded by charming villages. Over time, the city shifted to its current spot, leaving the old town to gracefully age. Archaeologists, like history detectives, found tablets, seals, and ancient artifacts around Bunsar Castle, unveiling captivating stories of Shiraz’s past.
Now, let’s talk about the Shiraz we know today—the city of daffodils! Its lush greenery and abundant orchards are thanks to the mild climate and plentiful rainfall. Exploring Shiraz is like stepping into a garden paradise, with so much to see that a few days might not be enough!
Delve into Shiraz’s rich cultural tapestry, home to legendary poets like Hafez, Saadi, and Khajovi Kermani. Visit their tombs, where art and poetry enthusiasts gather for poetry readings and music performances throughout the year. Did you know that, before the Islamic revolution, Shiraz produced a special wine, celebrated globally for its fertile soil and pure grapes? Cheers to Shiraz’s historic winemaking legacy!
Now, let’s turn the clock back to the Achaemenid era, a time when Iran held one of the world’s most significant civilizations. Behold Persepolis, also known as Parse, a breathtaking testament to the Achaemenid dynasty’s cultural prowess. Even today, the inscriptions and stone writings of Persepolis unveil the splendor and authority of an empire that once dominated half the world.
As you wander through Persepolis, its architecture, paintings, and sculptures whisper tales of ancient Iran, offering a captivating journey through the history and culture of both the Achaemenid dynasty and the beloved city of Shiraz. History lovers, archaeologists, and tourists alike find themselves enchanted by the secrets unveiled in every corner of this historical gem. So, are you ready to explore the wonders of Shiraz’s past?
Shiraz History
Excited about exploring the wonders of Shiraz? Well, timing is everything when it comes to planning your trip to this enchanting city, given its plethora of historical, religious, cultural, and natural attractions. As many travelers venture to Shiraz during their Iranian escapades, it’s essential to pick the perfect time for your visit.
Now, every season in Shiraz has its charm, offering a delightful experience throughout the year. However, let me spill the secret:
(Apr-Jun)
The absolute best time to immerse yourself in the beauty of Shiraz. The air is infused with a unique atmosphere, and the fragrance of orange blossoms in May is nothing short of soul-refreshing.
(Jul-Sep)
As summer approaches in southern Iran, Shiraz may not be at its weather best. Yet, the quieter off-peak season brings budget-friendly prices, offering an intriguing opportunity to discover the city’s charms.
(Oct-Dec)
Fall emerges as the second-best time to explore Shiraz, as the summer heat subsides. The splendid Persian gardens of Shiraz turns into an extra touch of charm to your visit during this season.
(Jan-Mar)
Shiraz experiences cold winters with the possibility of rainfall during the shorter days. Similar to summer, it’s the off-peak season, making it an ideal choice for a budget-friendly trip.
In Shiraz, locals and visitors navigate the city using taxis, buses, and the subway. As a tourist, rest assured that you won’t need a private car in Shiraz, given the various convenient options available for getting around. However, if you are visiting Shiraz suburbs, it’s the best to get a private car.Â
Certainly, the primary and widely used public transportation choice is the bus. The extensive bus service in Shiraz operates various lines, catering to both residents and visitors. While it may be slower in certain areas, the bus system stands as the most extensive and cost-effective public transportation network in Shiraz. To access these services, you can pay your fare using rechargeable citizen cards or in cash.
Taxis in Shiraz come in various types, including airport, terminal, predefined route, and telephone taxis. Predefined route taxis are ideal for sightseeing, covering specific attractions. Since 1985, telephone taxis from private companies have been serving citizens and visitors. The fare system involves a fixed entrance fee, and per-kilometer charges defined by the driver. Airport and terminal taxis operate 24/7.
Shiraz proudly hosts the country’s second-largest subway system, rivaled only by Tehran, featuring a network of multiple subway lines that collectively serve over 3.5 million passengers each year. Enjoy the convenience of using the citizen metro ticket card seamless subway fare payments. Stay informed and plan your travels effectively with the readily available and downloadable latest subway map for Shiraz.
In bustling cities like Shiraz, the online taxi market, including services like Snapp and Tapsi, has seen significant growth. Now, travelers and tourists no longer require their vehicles to explore the city. These online taxis provide a convenient and affordable option, allowing foreign tourists to effortlessly navigate Shiraz. With Snapp and Tapsi, payment can be made in cash, eliminating the need for a bank card.
Let the Experience Begin
Discover the allure of Shiraz with our expertly curated tours, weaving through ancient wonders, vibrant gardens, and the poetic legacy of Hafez and Saadi. Immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this captivating city on a journey tailored to your interests.
Shiraz, an absolute gem in Iran, is not just a city; it’s a love-filled haven, embracing art, literature, and the legacies of poets like Saadi and Hafez. Amidst the scent of oranges and the embrace of unique architecture, Shiraz’s artistic people have poured their creativity into delightful souvenirs and handicrafts. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of Shiraz’s most cherished crafts and mementos.
Yokheh
Yokheh, a delightful local sweet of Shiraz, is crafted with a blend of traditional ingredients such as wheat flour, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, oil, cardamom, and water. This scrumptious pastry, akin to Kermanshah kak, is distinguished by its thinner layers, with a final touch of pistachio powder, sugar powder, coconut, and almond slices for a delectable finish.
Masghati
Crafted with white flour, rice flour, powdered sugar, eggs, rose water, and solid oil, these Shirazi sweet is baked and adorned with purslane. The masghati itself is prepared using starch powder, water, rose water, sugar, saffron, and oil. Once ready, these two delectable treats find their place side by side in a tempting display.
Burnt Almonds
Burnt almond, a delightful souvenir from Fars and Kurdistan provinces, is readily available in Shiraz as a delicious memento of the city. Crafting this treat involves combining almonds with a mix of sugar or honey and water, heating the concoction until the almonds are coated in a thick liquid, resulting in the creation of these tempting burnt almonds.
Ranginak
Ranginak, a beloved dessert in the southern provinces such as Fars, Hormozgan, Bushehr, and Khuzestan, is a specialty prepared by the people of Shiraz. Comprising dates, flour, and cinnamon powder, the delightful Ranginak may feature slight regional variations in its preparation across the southern cities of Iran. In Shiraz, it’s typically made by combining dates, walnuts or pistachios, flour, oil, and a dusting of sugar or cinnamon for a delicious treat.
Spirits & Herbal Teas
Spirits and herbal teas stand out as renowned souvenirs from Shiraz, offering a daily treat with a variety of high-quality options like Bahar Naranj, Beharmeshk, Rosewater, Nasturtium flower, Mint, Chehl Sheba, Chamomile, and Borage. Each herb type, influenced by your temperament, adds a personal touch to your experience, enhancing both mood and inner well-being. Cheers to indulging in the diverse flavors of Shiraz!
Shiraz Carpet
An invaluable souvenir to bring back from your Shiraz adventure is the renowned Shiraz carpet. Each city in Iran boasts its unique carpet weaving, and Shiraz stands out with its distinct knots, weaving techniques, and rug types, setting it apart from carpets in other Iranian cities.
Gabeh
The Gabeh or Khersk carpet, crafted from cotton or wool fibers and often woven in a compact size, is a prevalent style associated with the Qashqai and Lor tribes residing in parts of Fars province. In Shiraz, the city has embraced the artistry of these communities, producing stunning Gabehes that are particularly cherished, especially those featuring the intricate clay or frame design.
Rug
A beloved souvenir highly sought after by tourists is the Shiraz rug, versatile as both a rug and cover. These rugs, crafted from silk, goat hair, sheep wool, or other domestic animal fibers, showcase a remarkable diversity, sometimes woven spontaneously without a predefined plan. Using vegetable dyes, wool threads intricately color the carpets, with a noteworthy style in Fars province known as Rand, finely woven by the Qashqai nomads on a horizontal frame, embodying delicacy and precision.
Buria Weaving
In the charming town of Kazerun, a unique artisanal tradition thrives as skilled artisans, predominantly men, intricately weave covers known as “Buria” using fibers derived from palm leaves or marsh reeds. This distinct craft not only showcases the dexterity of local artisans but also highlights the cultural significance of this specific weaving technique.Â
Khatam Kari (Inlay Work)
The exquisite art of Khatam Kari is officially registered among the handicrafts of Shiraz, with numerous examples proudly displayed in the city’s bustling bazaars. It’s worth noting that the finer the inlay designs, the more esteemed and valuable the inlay becomes, adding an extra layer of appreciation for this intricate craft.
Moaraq Kari
This Iranian art form, known as wooden mosaic work, has been officially registered among the handicrafts of Shiraz. When you explore the city’s vibrant bazaars, you’ll encounter stunning examples that showcase the beauty and intricacy of this unique craft.
Silverwork
For those seeking stylish and upscale souvenirs in Shiraz, exploring silverware is a must. Notable silver shops like Sarai Moshir, Vakil Bazaar, and Hafez Tomb offer exquisite items with 90-carat purity, making them slightly pricier than those found in other cities. These eye-catching pieces promise a touch of elegance and luxury to your collection.
Nomadic Coloured Fabrics
Another souvenir that attracts attention in the city of Shiraz is the colourful fabrics of the Fars tribes. One of the best places in Shiraz to buy these attractive fabrics is Vakil Bazaar; Go from Chaharsouk to Sarai Moshir and then to Shamshirgarha Bazaar to come across all kinds of colourful clothes hanging from the door and walls.
Monabat Kari (Wood Carving)
Monabat Kari is one of the handicrafts of Fars province, and you can find an excellent example of it in the markets of Shiraz. You should know that these handicrafts are registered in UNESCO World Heritage under Abadeh Fars city, located approximately 170 km north of Shiraz.
Galam Zani (Engraving on Silver)
Calligraphy is one of the original Iranian arts that follows three main styles; The style of Shiraz, Tabriz and Isfahan. In this style, which is mainly done on silver, designs such as Takht Jamshid, flowers and birds and images from the Shahnameh (The fiction and epic books of Iran by Ferdowsi, who consider it equal to the Iliad and the Odyssey.) can be seen.
Explore the wonders of Shiraz, a city where the past and present coexist harmoniously. Roam through ancient ruins, discover local crafts in lively markets, and indulge in the rich flavors of Persian cuisine. Shiraz welcomes you with open arms, inviting you to delve into its distinctive blend of traditions and contemporary allure. Whether you’re wandering through picturesque gardens or uncovering hidden gems in the city’s streets, Shiraz promises a captivating adventure for every traveler.
Indulge your senses with the vibrant and aromatic delight that is Shirazi Polo—a culinary gem essential to experiencing the authentic flavors of Shiraz. This delectable dish intertwines chicken, rice, eggplant, barberry, yogurt, saffron, and a medley of spices, each contributing to its unique and enticing taste. For an enhanced dining experience, savoring Shirazi Polo alongside a refreshing Shirazi salad not only adds enjoyment but also boosts your appetite, making it a must-try for a satisfying culinary adventure in Shiraz.
Do Piazeh-Aloo, a cherished traditional dish in Shiraz, is renowned for its simplicity and quick preparation. Boiled potatoes, onions, tomatoes or tomato paste, and a blend of spices form its main ingredients, with some opting to include meat for added richness. Despite its name, there are no plums (Aloo in Shirazi language) involved, causing a linguistic twist. These delicious Do Piazeh-Aloo are often served with bread for a delightful dinner experience. Don’t miss the chance to savor this authentic dish during your trip to Shiraz.
Havij Polo, a beloved traditional sweet dish in Shiraz, boasts a widespread fan base and is savored in various cities across Iran. If you relish the flavors of cooked carrots, saffron, and barberry, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds. While not overly challenging to prepare, crafting this traditional Shirazi dish requires time and genuine interest. Carrots, rice, barberry, sugar, saffron, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and minced meat are the essential ingredients, and the addition of saffron lends a vibrant touch.
Indulge in the deliciousness of Shirazi Kalam Polo, a beloved traditional dish featuring lunar cabbage, onion, rice, minced meat, chickpea flour, and aromatic herbs. The cabbage and onions are fried with aromatic herbs and spices, and mixed with drained rice. In a separate pan, minced meat kneaded with chickpea flour and spices is fried with oil and lemon juice before being added to the dish. This authentic Shirazi delicacy enjoyed for its delightful taste and health benefits, is a regional favorite served with yogurt and local vegetables.
Qormeh Beh, another delightful traditional dish from Shiraz, boasts a sweet and pleasant flavor highlighted by the essential ingredient—quince. This stew, known for its distinct taste, combines quince, mutton, sugar, onion, raw cobs, brewed saffron, lemon juice, turmeric, salt, and pepper. The result is a dish with a pleasing color and aroma, where the presence of quince significantly influences the overall taste. Explore the unique culinary delights of Shiraz by savoring delightful Ghormeh Beh, offering a symphony of flavors and fragrances.
Shiraz can be introduced as one of the important historical cities of Iran, considered the best of Iranian cities in terms of culture and literature. Of course, this city, along with its rich history and literature, also has delicious traditional foods that cannot be ignored. The variety of Shiraz’s local dishes is broad, so we suggest you familiarize yourself with these foods and ingredients before traveling to Shiraz to eat your favorite food on your trip to this historic city. Continue with ToIranTour to introduce you to the top Must-taste Foods in Shiraz.
Just as a reminder in reviewing Shirazi top cuisine, note that rice is one of the most widely used grains in Iranian cuisine. Iranian prepared rice is by two main methods: draining and boiling, and sometimes it is flavored with spices such as saffron. In the Persian language, cooked rice is called Polo. In the following, you will see many dishes prepared with different types of rice (Polo).
Discover the warmth of Persian hospitality in Shiraz with a variety of accommodations to suit every preference. From boutique hotels to centrally located stays, the city offers a diverse range of options. Immerse yourself in comfort and embrace the rich culture and history of Shiraz during your stay.
Experience the epitome of luxury in Shiraz with an array of 5-star accommodations awaiting your reservation. From the regal Zandiyeh Hotel to the elegant Homa Hotel, the grandeur of Shiraz Grand Hotel, the exquisite Persepolis Hotel, and the sophistication of Chamran Hotel—each promises a top-tier stay. Indulge in opulence as you explore the enchanting city, with these premium choices redefining the standards of luxury and comfort in Shiraz. Your journey begins with an invitation to discover the lavish side of this vibrant destination.
Immerse yourself in the charm of boutique hotels in Shiraz, where luxury seamlessly intertwines with a rich sense of history and tradition. Explore unique stays like Darb-e Shazdeh, Darvash, Ravi, Qeysarieh, Iran Mehr, Panj Dari, and Niyayesh. These exceptional accommodations offer more than just comfort; they provide an immersive journey into the cultural tapestry of Shiraz, making each stay a delightful blend of modern luxury and timeless traditions. Elevate your experience with these boutique gems, where every corner tells a story, inviting you to be a part of Shiraz’s enchanting narrative.
Discover the pinnacle of high-quality accommodation in Shiraz with a range of exceptional 4-star hotels. Options such as Karimkhan Hotel, Elizeh Hotel, Park Saadi, Ario Barzan, and Shirazis Hotel promise a perfect blend of comfort and excellence. Each hotel invites you to experience the epitome of hospitality, ensuring a memorable stay in this enchanting city. With numerous choices available, you’re sure to find the ideal 4-star accommodation that aligns with your preferences and enhances your journey in Shiraz.
Delight in the comfort and quality of 3-star hotels in Shiraz, where hospitality meets affordability. Consider charming options like Park Hotel, Arg Hotel, Parseh Hotel, Vakil Hotel, and Rudaki Hotel, each offering a cozy and welcoming stay. Embrace the perfect balance of cost-effectiveness and convenience, ensuring a delightful experience during your exploration of Shiraz. With a variety of 3-star hotels to choose from, you’re guaranteed a pleasant and budget-friendly stay in this captivating city.
For budget-conscious travelers and backpackers seeking cozy accommodations, Shiraz has a range of welcoming hostels. Consider options like Ziba Traditional Hostel, BB Hostel, Friendly Hostel, Homayouni Hostel, and Seven Hostel, offering affordable stays without compromising on comfort. Embrace the friendly atmosphere and shared experiences that hostels provide, ensuring a pocket-friendly yet memorable stay in Shiraz. With these options, budget travelers can explore the city without breaking the bank, making the most of their journey in this vibrant destination.
From the stunning Nasir al-Mulk Mosque to the tombs of Iranian great poets, Sadi and Hafez, we’ll take you on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Iran’s cultural capital. Discover the vibrant colors and flavors of the Vakil Bazaar, marvel at the intricate architecture of the Eram Garden, and soak up the history of the Tomb of Hafez. Get ready to be mesmerized by the charm and beauty of Shiraz!
Get ready for an unforgettable 3-day exploration in beautiful Shiraz! We’ve curated a perfect plan for you to discover the province’s top highlights. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or have more time to spare, our friendly guide lets you tailor your adventure based on your interests. Dive into the rich culture and history of Shiraz, making the most of your stay in this captivating part of Iran. Your journey of discovery awaits!
Starting early morning at around 8:00, have a scenic drive to Pasargadae, where you'll explore the tomb of Cyrus the Great (taking around 2 hours of visit). Enjoy your lunch in Pasargadae before heading back to Shiraz. En route, make a stop at the iconic Persepolis, a testament to ancient Persian civilization (the visit takes around 2 hours). Continue your adventure with visits to Naghsh-e Rostam and Naghsh-e Rajab, discovering rock reliefs and historical inscriptions. Get back in Shiraz around 5:00 pm.
Begin your day with the vibrant hues of Nasir al-Molk Mosque, known as the Pink Mosque, where stained glass windows create a mesmerizing play of light. Walk to Qavam House also known as Narenjestan Garden, where Persian and European architectural elements blend seamlessly. Moving forward, pay a visit to the spiritual ambiance of Shahcheragh Holy Shrine before going to Vakil Complex to visit the Mosque, the Bazaar and the Bathhouse. After having your visits and having your lunch, drive to the Eram Garden to experience the tranquil beauty of a Persian Garden. And finally, finish your day by visiting the poetic legacy of Hafez at his tomb.
For a richer immersion into Shiraz's culture, consider a unique nomadic experience. Spend a day with nomads, and if you're up for it, stay overnight in their traditional tents. This special tour offers a genuine insight into their lifestyle, allowing you to partake in their daily chores and gain a profound understanding of the nomadic way of life in Iran. From learning about their customs to experiencing the simplicity and authenticity of nomadic living, this adventure promises a truly enriching cultural encounter in the heart of Shiraz.
