Iran has some stunning sights and attractions, with Tehran, Esfahan and Shiraz being three of the most visited cities. Whether you hit the ski slopes to the north of the capital, spend your days exploring the beautiful mosques of Esfahan or you chill out in the peaceful gardens of Shiraz, Iran holds many cultural and historic wonders just waiting to be discovered.

Abyaneh
The town’s most prominent landmark is a 14th century mosque made from red mud bricks, the same material that the local houses are made of. Fairly compact in size, Abyaneh is not bursting with tourist attractions, but it makes up for this with its small Iranian town feel and the hospitality of its people. Simple wander around the streets and explore the town’s mosques, graveyards and forts. The town shuts down by 22:00, so try to enjoy the pleasures of early mornings here, when the sun is not too hot.

Esfahan
Centrally located, this city is one of the world’s little known hidden gems, with the city harbouring secrets such as the second largest city square in the world. Architectural landmarks here include the Vank Cathedral, once home to Armenian refugees fleeing from Turkish massacres in the first half of the 17th century; the Sheikh Loftollah Mosque; the Majid-e Jam'e Abbasi Mosque; Chehel Sutun palace; the Sio Seh Pol and Khaju bridges; and the Ali Ghapu Palace. To enjoy all these wonders from a different perspective, take a walk in the evening, when many of these landmarks are illuminated to create a dazzling effect.

Shiraz
Situated centrally with easy access to the Persian Gulf coast, Shiraz is known as the ‘City of Gardens’ and has a lively array of worthwhile attractions. Relax at the Aramgah-e Hafez, also known as the Tomb of the Poet Hafez, who is acclaimed as one of Persia’s greatest lyric poets. Once you have taken in the scented fruit trees and flowers, head for the Shah-e Cheragh Shrine, a centre of pilgrimage; parts of the building date back to the 14th century. More beautiful mosaic tiles can be appreciated at Vakil Mosque, another one of the city’s holy sites.

Those with a taste for shopping should head for the Vakil Bazaar, also known as Regent’s Bazaar, where you can immerse yourself in traditional crafts from the making of copperware to the work of cobblers. The vaulted roofs at the bazaar and the tiles that adorn it give it a reputation as being one of the greatest bazaars in the country. Historians should not miss the great ruins of Persepolis, initiated by the great Persian leader Darius I in the 5th century BC and famously destroyed by Alexander the Great. The tomb of Darius I as well as those of three other Persian kings can been seen at Naqsh-e Rostam, placed high up on the cliff face.

Tabriz
Located near the borders with Azerbaijan and Armenia, Tabriz is worth of a visit if you like beautiful Islamic architecture and historical sites. Start your visit with a trip to Own-ebn-e-ali mosque, set on a mountain, where you can take in stunning views of the city below. More vistas can be appreciated at Babak castle, 150kms north of Tabriz. Around this area are some great places for climbing and walking; likewise, Kandowan valley, 35kms southwest, is a must-see with its cliff architecture and mountain peaks. For a visit to beautifully isolated 18th century church, head 45kms northwest to reach Sohrol. For light-hearted fun, the Eil-goli building is not only a delightful building, but it is the site of a bustling fair and playground.

Tehran
Most visitors to Iran will find themselves in Tehran at some point during their vacation here, with the capital acting as the main air gateway into the country. The city offers a wonderful combination of relaxing retreats hidden amid traffic ridden, chaotic streets. For relaxation, head to the acclaimed S'ad-Abad palace complex in the north of the city, where you can relax in the gardens which surround the palaces, of which there are over a dozen.

For history buffs, the National Museum provides endless artefacts, with some of the world’s most priceless Persian treasures on display here. Other notable museums include the Carpet Museum, housing dozens of handmade works of art and the Glass and Ceramics Museum, where you can enjoy some beautiful exhibits.

Shopping aficionados should head for Tehran Bazaar, where maze-like alleyways are lined with outlets selling everything from gold to donkeys. The sounds, sights and smells here will play havoc with your senses and give you opportunity to come face-to-face with the daily lives of residents. In contrast, Ferdoosi square at the centre of downtown offers a more modern shopping environment.

Yazd
Famous for the two Towers of Silence, which are in fact two mountains, Yazd has an exciting combination of historical temples and monuments. The mountains were once used by Zoroastrians as a place to take their dead, where they would then be eaten by vultures. Like all Iranian city’s, Yazd has an interesting bazaar that sells all sorts of spices and metalwork and the city is also one of the cheapest places to make a purchase; however, be warned that it can be tricky to find your way back out of the labyrinth-like market.

Masjid-e Jame is the city’s most beautiful mosque, built in the 14th century. Its towering minarets and entrance gateway are decorated in mosaic tiles, adding to its attractiveness. If you have further time to explore more religious sites, the city is home to several monasteries, some of which have been abandoned and can be explored on foot. The Old City is also worthy of investigation, and is surrounded by an impressive wall that was completed in the 14th century.

Explore the Country’s Beautiful Mosques
With some of the most beautiful mosques in the world having been built here, no visitor should miss the chance to explore these mosaic tiled treasures. Top favourites include: the Sheikh Loftollah and Majid-e Jam'e Abbasi in Esfahan; the Vakil Mosque in Shiraz; and the Masjid-e Jame in Yazd.

Go Skiing
A favourite pastime among many citizens, hitting the slopes for a spot of snowboarding has become an increasing popular activity for tourists too. Dizin resort is one of the most easily accessible ski sites, an easy drive from the capital.

Shop at Iran’s Labyrinth-like Bazaars
Every town of significance here has a magical bazaar, more often than not a maze of alleyways that are packed with vendors selling everything from Persian carpets to copperware and spices. Be prepared for a bombardment of the senses!

Swim in the Warm Waters of the Persian Gulf
The coastal waters are of a warm temperature year-round, making for the perfect place to enjoy strolls along the beach and various water sports. Coastal spots include Bandar Abbas, Chabahar, Bushehr and Bandar-e Eman Khomeini.

Visit a Traditional Teahouse
Try your hand at smoking flavoured tobacco and sipping at tea at one of Iran’s famous teahouses, open to both men and women. Sit back, relax and enjoy a good puff with the other patrons among some local chit-chat.