Things to do in Tehran
Discover the best attractions and experiences Tehran has to offer
Historic Monuments
Tehran’s historic heart blends royal palaces with timeless landmarks from the Qajar and Pahlavi eras.
Golestan Palace
A grand Qajar-era complex in central Tehran, famed for its ornate halls and lush gardens.
Azadi Tower
Iconic symbol of Tehran with striking architecture and panoramic city views.
Sa’dabad Complex
A hilltop royal residence turned museum complex set in expansive green grounds.
Museums
Tehran’s museums span archaeology, art, and craft, offering deep dives into Iran’s cultural heritage.
National Museum of Iran
A major repository of Iran’s ancient civilizations and dynastic history.
Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art
Renowned collection of post-1940s Iranian and international works.
Reza Abbasi Museum
Intimate gallery with Safavid and Qajar-era paintings and artifacts.
Carpet Museum of Iran
Celebrates Persian carpets, weaving traditions, and regional patterns.
Religious Monuments
Tehran houses shrines, mosques, and churches that reflect Iran’s spiritual and cultural diversity.
Imamzadeh Saleh
A popular Shia shrine in north Tehran, known for its courtyard and prayer spaces.
Saint Sarkis Cathedral
Tehran’s Armenian Apostolic church with distinctive architecture.
Imam Khomeini Mausoleum
Mausoleum and shrine complex devoted to Iran’s founder, a major national landmark.
National & Theme Parks
Tehran’s green lungs offer relaxing escapes with ponds, lawns, and scenic viewpoints.
Niavaran Park
Green spaces surrounding the Niavaran Palace Complex, ideal for a peaceful stroll.
Mellat Park
Central city park with walking paths, fountains, and open lawns.
Azadi Park
Expansive area around Azadi Tower – popular for picnics and sunset views.
Neighborhoods
Dive into Tehran’s districts where markets, cafés, and viewpoints reveal daily life.
Grand Bazaar Tehran
A historic market neighborhood with winding bazaars, shops, and traders.
Tajrish District & Bazaar
Northern neighborhood centered on Tajrish Square and its mosque.
Darband
Mountain-side street with eateries and scenic hikes just outside the city core.
Valiasr Street
One of Tehran’s oldest avenues, ideal for a long walk and people-watching.
Free Things to Do
Great experiences don’t have to cost a thing—explore public spaces and iconic viewpoints.
Tabiat Bridge
A dramatic pedestrian bridge spanning a park with city views.
Walk along Valiasr Street
Stroll Tehran’s historic avenue to observe daily life and architecture.
Mellat Park stroll
Free, open spaces for a relaxing walk among trees and fountains.
Gastronomy
Tehran’s cuisine is a doorway to Iran’s flavors, from street-food staples to timeless classics.
Chelo kebab
The quintessential Tehran meal: saffron rice with grilled meat and tomatoes.
Ghorme sabzi
Herbed stew with meat and kidney beans, a Persian comfort dish.
Fesenjan
Rich walnut and pomegranate sauce served with poultry or meat.
Nightlife
Tehran’s nightlife leans toward cultural experiences, tea houses, and theatre after dark.
Chai Khaneh (traditional tea houses)
Relaxing evenings with tea, light bites, and conversations.
Shahrzad Theater
A popular venue offering plays and live performances.
Entertainment
The city’s performance venues host concerts, theatre, and cultural events year-round.
Vahdat Hall
Tehran’s premier venue for opera, ballet, and large-scale concerts.
Tehran City Theater
A hub for contemporary plays and theatrical productions.
Milad Tower Observation & Events
Iconic tower offering exhibitions, views, and occasional events.
Sports
Sports fans can catch big matches or enjoy high-altitude recreation nearby.
Azadi Stadium
Tehran’s largest stadium, home to major football matches.
Tochal Cable Car & Ski Resort
Mountain recreation with a cable car ride and seasonal skiing.
Milad Tower
Observation tower with panoramic city views and facilities.
Off the Track
For the curious traveler, Tehran hides neighborhoods and viewpoints off the beaten path.
Darband hillside stroll
Scenic path and eateries along the northern hillside outside the city center.
Tajrish Market stroll (evening)
A quieter side of the bazaar for local snacks and atmosphere.