Planning your trip to Iran? Don’t miss our Iran Travel Guide for a full introduction. Below are must-know cultural insights to help you travel respectfully and comfortably.
1. 👗 Dress Modestly
Both men and women should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Women are expected to wear a headscarf in public and avoid tight or revealing clothes.
2. 🕋 Respect Religious Practices
Avoid visiting mosques or religious sites during prayer times unless invited. Be quiet and respectful around holy places.
3. 🎭 Taarof – Iranian Politeness Ritual
Iranians often use Taarof, a form of polite insistence or offering, where people might repeatedly refuse gifts or invitations out of courtesy before genuinely accepting. Don’t be offended if your offer is initially declined—it’s part of the social dance. Politely insist once or twice, then gracefully accept or step back.
Learn more about this tradition in our article: Understanding Taarof in Iranian Culture.
4. 🤝 Greetings & Hospitality
Handshakes are common but wait for the local to initiate, especially between men and women. Iranians are warm and may invite you for tea—accept politely.
5. 📸 Photography Etiquette
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women or religious ceremonies.
6. 🚫 Public Behavior
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Avoid loud or overly expressive behavior in public spaces.
7. 🚻 Gender Segregation
Some places may have separate sections for men and women, especially traditional tea houses, mosques, and some public transportation.
8. 💰 Tipping
Tipping (5-10%) is appreciated in restaurants and for guides but not mandatory.
9. 🗣️ Language
Learning a few basic Persian (Farsi) phrases shows respect and helps interaction.
Want to blend in like a local? Check our Basic Persian Phrases for Tourists.
10. 🤫 Avoid Sensitive Topics
Politics and religion can be sensitive; it’s best to listen more than debate.
11. 🥿 Shoes Off Indoors
It’s customary to remove shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional sites.
12. 🚿 Using Water in Toilets
In most Iranian restrooms, water is used for cleaning instead of toilet paper, usually with a small water spray or jug nearby. Carry some tissue just in case, and follow local usage customs.
13. 🙇♂️ Respect Elders
Showing respect to elders is important in Iranian culture. Stand when they enter the room and use polite language.
14. 🚶♀️ Pedestrian Safety Tips for Tourists
Pedestrians should exercise caution when crossing streets, as traffic can be busy and drivers may not always yield. Use marked crosswalks where available, wait for a clear gap, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Stay alert, especially in crowded urban areas, and avoid walking alone late at night.
✨ Additional Travel Tips for Visiting Iran
- 💧 Stay Hydrated: Iran’s climate can be quite dry, especially in desert regions. Always carry a bottle of water with you.
- 📱 SIM Cards & Connectivity: Consider buying a local SIM card for affordable internet and calls. Apps like Telegram and Instagram are widely used.
- 💳 Currency & Payments: Cash is king in most places, especially small shops and bazaars. Credit cards aren’t widely accepted, so carry enough Iranian Rials.
For more, read our Iran Money Guide: Currency, Exchange & Tipping. - 🛍️ Bargaining is Normal: In bazaars and markets, bargaining is expected and part of the fun. Approach it with a friendly attitude.
- 🚶♂️ Walking Shoes: Bring comfortable shoes for exploring historic sites and bazaars — many streets are cobbled or uneven.
- 🕰️ Prayer Times: Some shops and attractions close briefly during prayer times (five times a day). Plan your visits accordingly.
Explore how religion shapes daily life in our Religion & Culture in Iran. - 🌐 Use a VPN: Some websites and apps may be restricted, so a VPN can be helpful for accessing your usual services.
ee our Essential Tech Tips for Travelers to Iran. - 🛑 Respect Photography Restrictions: Avoid taking pictures near military or government buildings.
- 🎁 Gift Giving: Small gifts, especially from your home country, are appreciated if invited to someone’s home.
📞 Need Help Planning Your Trip?
Have questions or need help organizing your tour in Iran?
👉 Contact Us:
📧 Email: [email protected]
📱 WhatsApp: +98 917 314 5627
🌐 Website: www.wegoiran.com
💬 Live Chat: Available during working hours at the bottom corner of this page
🔗 Suggested Links for Travelers
Here are more helpful resources to explore before your journey: