Isfahan is a city located in central Iran and is considered one of the cultural and historical centers of the country. It was once the capital of Iran during the Safavid dynasty and is known for its stunning architecture, including the Naqsh-e Jahan Square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also famous for its hand-woven textiles, handicrafts, and traditional Persian sweets. In addition, Isfahan is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful gardens, bridges, and museums.
| Isfahan tourist’s attractions and highlights | Isfahan Hotels |
| Naqshe Jahan Square | Abbassi (*****) |
| Sheikh Lotfollah mosque | Qasre Monshi boutique hotel (top ****) |
| Shah Mosque (Imam Mosque) | Parsian Kowsar hotel (****) |
| Ali Qapu Palace | Safir (****) |
| Isfahan grand Bazaar | Aseman hotel (****) |
| Sio She Pol Bridge | Kahajoo hotel (****) |
| Khajoo Bridge | Ali Qapu hotel (****) |
| Vank cathedral | Piroozi hotel (****) |
| Chehel Sotoun palace | Bkhardi historical house (****) |
| Jame mosque | Venus hotel (****) |
| Hasht Behesht | Avin hotel (****) |
| Menar Jonban | Setareh hotel (***) |
| Ali Gholi agha Hammam | Atigh hotel (***) |
| Isfahan music museum | Sun rise hotel (***) |
| Zoroastrian fire temple (Zoroastrian Atashkadeh) | Part hotel (top***) |
Naqshe Jahan Square
Naqsh-e Jahan Square (also known as Imam Square or Shah Square) is a historic square in Isfahan, Iran. It is one of the largest city squares in the world and is considered one of the most beautiful squares in the Islamic world. The square was built in the 16th century during the Safavid dynasty and was used for political and religious events, as well as a marketplace. Around the square are several famous buildings and monuments, including the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, the Ali Qapu Palace, and the Imam Mosque (also known as the Shah Mosque). Today, Naqsh-e Jahan Square is a major tourist attraction and a symbol of Iran’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque
The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is a historic mosque in Isfahan, Iran, located on the eastern side of the Naqsh-e Jahan Square. It was built in the early 17th century during the Safavid dynasty and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate tilework. The mosque was originally built as a private mosque for the royal family and was not open to the general public. It is considered one of the finest examples of Persian architecture and is renowned for its stunning dome, which is covered with intricate tile work and calligraphy.
Shah Mosque (Imam Mosque)
The Shah Mosque, also known as the Imam Mosque, is a historic mosque in Isfahan, Iran, located on the southern side of the Naqsh-e Jahan Square. It was built in the 17th century during the Safavid dynasty and is considered one of the finest examples of Persian Islamic architecture. The mosque is renowned for its stunning tile work, calligraphy, and intricate decoration. It is also famous for its large dome and its tall minarets, which dominate the skyline of Isfahan. The Imam Mosque is a major tourist destination and today, it continues to be used as a mosque and is one of the largest and most impressive mosques in Iran.
Ali Qapu Palace
The Ali Qapu Palace is a historic palace in Isfahan, Iran, located on the western side of the Naqsh-e Jahan Square. It was built in the 16th century during the Safavid dynasty and served as the primary residence of the Safavid kings. The palace is known for its stunning architecture and intricate decoration, including tile work, calligraphy, and frescoes. It is also famous for its musical room, where the Safavid kings would host musical performances and other events.
Isfahan Bazaar
The Isfahan Bazaar is a traditional market in Isfahan, Iran that has been in operation for many centuries. It is a sprawling complex of covered alleys, shops, and caravanserais that covers a large area in the heart of the city. The bazaar is known for its intricate tile work, beautiful domes, and colorful atmosphere. It is a major center for trade and commerce in Isfahan, and is also a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of goods such as textiles, spices, jewelry, and traditional handicrafts. In addition to being a hub of commerce, the Isfahan Bazaar also has cultural and historical significance and is considered an important part of the city’s heritage.
Jame’a Mosque of Isfahan
The Jame’a Mosque of Isfahan, also known as the Friday Mosque of Isfahan, is a historic mosque located in Isfahan, Iran. It is one of the oldest and largest mosques in the country, and it is considered to be a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. The mosque features intricate tile work, calligraphy, and stone carvings, and its courtyard and minarets have become iconic symbols of the city. The mosque has been extensively restored and expanded over the centuries.
Si-o-se Pol
The Si-o-se Pol is a bridge in Isfahan, Iran, over the Zayandeh River. It is one of the most famous bridges in Iran and is a symbol of the city. The bridge was built in the 17th century and has been restored several times over the years. The Si-o-se Pol is composed of 33 arches and is nearly 300 meters long. The bridge is also known for its intricate tile work and artistic embellishments, which make it a popular tourist destination. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the bridge also serves an important functional role, connecting the northern and southern parts of Isfahan and providing a crossing for both pedestrians and vehicles.
Khaju Bridge
Khaju Bridge is a historic bridge in Isfahan, Iran, located on the Zayandeh River. It was built in the 17th century during the Safavid dynasty and is one of the most famous bridges in Iran. The bridge is not only a transportation link, but also a recreational and architectural site, featuring a central pavilion that served as a gathering place for travelers, poets, and musicians. The bridge is adorned with intricate tile work, reliefs, and calligraphy, and has been described as an engineering marvel of its time. Khaju Bridge is also an important part of Isfahan’s cultural heritage and is considered one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Vank Cathedral
Vank Cathedral is a historic cathedral located in Isfahan, Iran. It was built in the 17th century and served as the main church for the Armenian community in Isfahan. The cathedral is known for its stunning architecture and intricate decoration, including frescoes, tile work, and calligraphy. The walls and ceiling of the cathedral are covered with biblical scenes and Armenian inscriptions, making it one of the most beautiful and important examples of Armenian Christian art in the world. Despite its historical and cultural significance, the cathedral has faced challenges throughout its history, including destruction, theft, and neglect. However, it has been restored and preserved for future generations to enjoy and appreciate.
Chehel Sotoun Palace
Chehel Sotoun Palace is a Persian palace and garden located in Isfahan, Iran. It was built in the 17th century during the reign of Shah Abbas II and served as a place for the king to receive guests and hold banquets. The palace is famous for its central hall, which is supported by 20 columns and is reflected in a large pool, creating the illusion of 40 columns. The hall is also adorned with richly painted murals and frescoes depicting scenes from Persian history and mythology. Chehel Sotoun Palace is now a museum and a popular tourist attraction in Isfahan.
Isfahan Music Museum
The Isfahan Music Museum is a museum located in Isfahan, Iran, dedicated to the musical culture and heritage of Iran. The museum contains a large collection of musical instruments, manuscripts, and other artifacts related to Iranian music. The instruments on display include traditional Persian instruments such as the tar, santur, and ney, as well as a variety of other instruments from different regions of Iran. The museum also features a performance space where visitors can witness live musical performances and learn about the history and evolution of Iranian music. The Isfahan Music Museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience and appreciate the rich musical tradition of Iran and to gain a deeper understanding of its cultural significance.
Hasht Behesht Palace
Hasht Behesht Palace is a 17th-century palace located in Isfahan, Iran. The name “Hasht Behesht” means “Eight Paradises” in Persian, and the palace is known for its elaborate tile work, calligraphy, and geometric designs, which reflect the Timurid-style architecture popular during the time of its construction. The palace was built as a residence for royalty and nobles, and it features multiple courtyards, gardens, and pools, which would have provided a peaceful retreat for its residents. Despite undergoing some renovations and restorations over the years, the palace remains largely unchanged from its original design and is considered a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.
Ali Gholi Agha Hammam
Ali Gholi Agha Hammam is a historical bathhouse located in Isfahan, Iran. It was built in the 17th century during the Safavid era and is considered to be one of the best examples of traditional Persian bathhouses. The bathhouse was used by both men and women, and it was a place not only for bathing but also for socializing and relaxation. The bathhouse features a central dome, intricate tilework, and a large pool surrounded by private bathing rooms. Today, the Ali Gholi Agha Hammam has been restored and is open to visitors, who can experience the beauty of the traditional bathhouse and learn about the cultural significance of bathing in Persian culture. The bathhouse is an important piece of architectural and cultural heritage, and it provides a glimpse into the daily life of people in 17th-century Isfahan.
