Book flights to Shiraz (SYZ)

Book your visit to Shiraz

Nestling in the south of Iran is the jewel that is Shiraz. This Persian centre of poetry and culture was once the capital of Iran, and today is the central city of Fars Province. The cosmopolitan makeup of its population makes it an eclectic and relaxed destination where everyone is welcome.

Take a wander around the well-preserved citadel of the Arg of Karim Khan, or adjourn to the air-conditioned cool of one of the city’s large shopping malls, where retail opportunities sit alongside excellent dining experiences.

Beyond the city limits are some of Iran’s most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making Shiraz a fabulous base for discovering the culture and ancient history of Persia. The best time to visit Shiraz is spring, when the sweet scent of the orange trees hangs fills the air.

Things to do in Shiraz

A visit to Hafez’s Tomb is a must when you visit Shiraz. Regarded as one of the greatest Persian poets, Hafez’s Tomb is a beautiful mausoleum surrounded by immaculately maintained gardens filled with references to Hafez’s poetry. Shiraz is home to a wealth of poets, and other cultural locations include the tomb of master poet Sa’di.

As well as literary wonders, Shiraz is famous for its gardens, including Eram Garden, a complex of enchanting gardens linked by an intricate canal system and filled with delicate flowers.

Dominating the downtown area is the citadel of the Arg of Karim Khan, with towering sandstone walls surrounding a beautiful garden and buildings. The Qur’an Gate, the city’s main gate, is also well worth a visit and is one of the finest architectural designs in Iran.

Activities in Shiraz

Just 35 minutes away from the centre of Shiraz is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Persepolis, which is an essential day trip for any visitor to the city. This ancient metropolis is truly magnificent, despite being razed to the ground by Alexander the Great and is filled with fabulous photo opportunities.

For a truly special place to capture a rainbow of colours, the Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque is the place to go. Also known as the Pink Mosque or the Rainbow Mosque, it’s a photographer’s dream, especially early in the morning as the light illuminates the mosque’s colourful windows.

Just over 20 miles from downtown Shiraz is Ghalat Village, where you can see traditional clay and stone houses, and eat traditional Persian food. The village gives visitors a glimpse into life in a bygone era.

Food in Shiraz

Iranian food is full of flavour and includes everything from light street food to hearty stews and rice dishes.

A dish found only in the city is Kalam Polo, made from meatballs, chopped cabbage and rice with a unique blend of herbs and spices. Main courses usually come with a Shirazi salad made from cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a simple lemon dressing.

If you’re an early riser, try a soup made from vegetables and meat called Ashe Sabzi Shirazi that’s only served from 5 to 7 am.

A delicious on-the-go snack is Shirini Nokhodchi or chickpea cookies, or look out for freshly made halva. If you have a sweet tooth, try faloodeh, an ice cream made from rice starch with different flavoured sugar waters. It’s a refreshing palate cleanser after a kebab with rice or a mutton stew.

Shopping in Shiraz

Bazaar Vakil isn’t just a market, it’s an experience. This ancient souq is where you’ll find authentic Persian rugs, textiles, handicrafts and stalls selling precious spices like saffron. Expect to haggle, and pick up a bag of dates to munch as you browse the stalls.

Part of the Bazaar is Saraye Moshir, the best place to find the best artisan handicrafts in the region. And make sure you include a visit to Haji Bazaar, the oldest and most historic souq in Shiraz.

Shiraz has some excellent shopping malls that offer air-conditioned comfort and retail outlets, food halls and entertainment. Aftab Fars Shopping Centre is one of the biggest, or spend an afternoon exploring the Persian Gulf Complex, one of the largest malls in the world and home to an amusement park as well as a large food court.