Top 10 Places to Visit in Shiraz
Best Places to Visit in Shiraz
Do you know the must-see sites you must visit on your Shiraz trip? This blog introduces the top 10 places to visit in Shiraz. In other words, you should not miss these Shiraz attractions while traveling to Shiraz.
Actually, with a simple search on the Internet, you will find many articles with the same title. So, why is this article different from others, and is it worth reading?
We should say that as well as describing each attraction, our article includes important details such as its location, prominent features, entrance fee, and visiting duration.
Besides, for each attraction, we have collected professional tips based on our knowledge, personal experience, and feedback from other visitors in the section called “the notes from the legendaryiran experts.” You will be able to make the most of your visit by knowing these points. So stay with us and contact us if you have any questions.
Shiraz at a Glance
Shiraz is the city of love, poetry, and pure wine. It is a city with a unique combination of nature, architecture, culture, history, and literature. You can explore the greatness and glory of ancient Iran along with the unique architectural styles of the Zandieh and Qajar eras; or wander in its streets for hours, meet the friendly locals, and have a delicious cup of Faloodeh Shirazi.
Visiting Shiraz tourist attractions and highlights takes at least three or four days. Shiraz weather is usually pleasant, but the best time to visit this city is spring when you can enjoy nature’s beauty alongside Persian masterpieces. Also, Shiraz is full of sour orange blossom fragrance and colorful flowers in spring.
Notably, its summers are warm, while autumns and winters are not too cold.
Naghshe Rostam (Naqsh-e Rostam)
Located about 6 km northwest of Persepolis, the archaeological site of Naghshe Rostam is a complex of valuable monuments. This site is also called Necropolis, meaning cemetery, because four rock tombs belonging to Achaemenid kings were carved in cross shapes (Chalipa) at about 26 meters above ground level. In the lower parts, there are magnificent rock reliefs of Sassanid kings carved on the hill, valuable evidence of one of the greatest empires of all times. Finally, opposite Darius II’s tomb, there is an Achaemenid square-shaped tower called Cube of Zoroaster that dates back to the 5th century BC and could be an ancient Zoroastrian fire temple.
Why You Should Visit Naghshe Rostam
1- It is one of the unique ancient Goor Dakhmeh (burial place or Necropolis) that cannot be found in other old countries such as Egypt, India, etc.
2- Naqsh-e Rostam is the burial place of the most fabulous kings in the history of Iran, including Darius The Great, Darius II, Ardashir I, and Xerxes.
3- This magnificent Shiraz tourist attraction contains numerous engraved works from the Elamite period to the Sassanid dynasty, so the sequence of history can be easily seen.
4- Many great domestic and foreign archaeologists and historians have researched this site.
5- In the Naghshe Rostam Collection, there are unique lithographs of the battles of Sassanid kings such as Shapur, Bahram II, Hormoz II, and Shapur II.
6- One of the most significant structures belonging to ancient Zoroastrians, called the Cube of Zoroaster, stands in the complex.
Notes from Legendaryiran Experts about Visiting Naghshe Rostam:
- If you visit this place during summer, do not forget to protect yourself from the sunshine by using sunglasses, sunscreen, a light shirt, and a hat.
- During summer, plan to visit this place in the morning or around sunset to avoid unbearably hot weather.
- It would be a good idea to visit this Shiraz tourist attraction and Persepolis on the same day, as they are close to each other, but far from Shiraz.
- If you are traveling from Shiraz to Isfahan or Yazd, you can visit Naqsh-e Rostam on your way.
Pasargadae
Pasargadae, located 134 km north of Shiraz, is the first Achaemenid capital and one of the significant Iran attractions. Cyrus The Great (c.600-530 BC) ordered to build this complex in a Persian garden (Chahar Bagh). Moreover, this compound that is a UNESCO registered site includes the tomb of Cyrus, Soleyman Prison, Tale-e Takht fortified platform, and archaeological ruins of palaces such as Private and Audience palaces. Finally, the Tomb of Cyrus the Great, which has stood for over 25 centuries, is the most remarkable masterpiece in this top place to visit in Shiraz.
Why You Should Visit Pasargadae
1- It is on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.
2- The tomb of Cyrus the Great is located in this complex.
3- It is the first capital of the Achaemenid Empire.
4- Visiting this valuable site will help increase your knowledge about Iran’s history, especially Achaemenid history.
5- Pasargadae Garden is also part of this collection. Although this garden does not exist today, it has inspired famous Iranian gardens.
Notes from Legendaryiran Experts about Visiting Pasargadae:
- If you visit this place during summer, do not forget to protect yourself from the sunshine by using sunglasses, sunscreen, a light shirt, and a hat.
- During summer, plan to visit this place in the morning or around sunset to avoid unbearably hot weather.
- If you are traveling from Shiraz to Isfahan or Yazd, you can visit Pasargadae on your way.
- The 29th of October (Aban 7th) is Cyrus The Great Day, so don’t plan to visit Pasargadae on that day. There are often traffic jams because of the thousands of tourists gathering in this location. Even sometimes the roads are closed.
Shah Cheragh Shrine
(Shah-e-Cheragh Mausoleum)
The Shah Cheragh Shrine houses the tombs of Ahmad and Muhammad, the brothers of Imam Reza, and is one of the top 10 places to see in Shiraz. In addition to its religious significance, Shah-e Cheragh Mausoleum is magnificent in terms of architecture. The tomb was built in the 12th century and has experienced several renovations and reconstructions during the time. In terms of architecture, the marvelous tile works on its exterior and mirror, and glass work in the interior decoration will amaze you.
Why you should visit Shah Cheragh Shrine
1- This Shiraz monument is one of Iran’s most important religious attractions.
2- You will enjoy the soothing atmosphere of Shah Cheragh.
3- Here are the tombs of Imam Reza’s brothers.
4- This Shiraz tourist attraction has fantastic architecture and is a manifestation of Islamic art.
5- Tiling, mirror work, and the use of stained glass in the decoration of this building have made it a unique masterpiece and a top place to visit in Shiraz.
Notes from Legendaryiran Experts about Visiting Shah Cheragh Shrine:
- Non-Muslim tourists can visit the courtyard while entering the mausoleum needs permission.
- You are not allowed to carry any camera, and photography in the shrine is forbidden.
- Ladies should wear a kind of hijab, a long cloth called “Chador.” You can borrow Chador at the entrance gate.
- You should remove your shoes and place them in a plastic bag to enter the shrine.
- For free, the non-muslim visitors are accompanied by a guide.
- Shah Cheragh is crowded on the first day of the Persian new year (March 21st) and during Muslims’ mournings and celebrations.
Karim Khan Citadel
(Arg-e Karim Khan)
In the center of Shiraz, a huge building attracts attention, which is a valuable monument belonging to the Zandieh era. It is Karim Khan Citadel that is distinguished from other parts of the city by its walls, towers, and fortifications. Accordingly, the citadel has four brick towers of 14-meter height that are connected by four walls of 12-meter height.
The exciting thing about the towers is that one of them is like the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Moreover, there is a delightsome yard full of sour orange trees inside this Shiraz monument that was once the residence of Karim Khan Zand.
Why You Should Visit Karim Khan Citadel
1- It is a valuable relic from the Zandi era and is a monument of the Zandiyeh Complex.
2- This citadel is one of the distinctive historical places to see in Shiraz.
3- You can spend a pleasant evening next to this citadel and enjoy seeing its glory.
Notes from Legendaryiran Experts about Visiting Karim Khan Citadel:
- Karim Khan Citadel is a part of the Zandieh Complex, near the mosque, bath, and Vakil Bazaar. So, don’t forget to visit other Zandieh monuments in the neighborhood.
- If you don’t have enough time, you can just see the exterior of the citadel. Because there are other Shiraz tourist attractions with architectural styles similar to the Arg-e Karim Khan.
- There are ice cream shops behind the Arg where you can have a cool Shirazi Faloodeh or a delicious traditional Iranian ice cream.
- In the evening people gather in front of the citadel there and sometimes the young locals play music.
Tomb of Hafez (Hafezieh)
Hafez is the most famous Persian poet whose poems express spirituality and love. On the other hand, his poems were so inspiring that he influenced many significant figures like Nietzsche and Goethe. In 1452, 65 years after Hafez´s death, a Shiraz Governor ordered to build of a tomb on the burial place of Hafez in Golgasht-e Mosalla Garden. The tomb was destroyed and reconstructed many times. Particularly during Zandieh Era, some buildings were constructed.
Finally, in the 20th century, the present buildings and structures were designed by André Godard, the great French architect.
Nowadays, it becomes one of the top places to visit in Shiraz.
Why You Should Visit Tomb of Hafez
1- Hafezieh is the burial place of Hafez, one of the great poets of Iran and even the world.
2- Besides Hafez, famous mystics, poets, and other important figures have been buried in this garden.
3- The pleasant atmosphere of this Shiraz tourist attraction can bring you peace and create happy hours for you.
4- In many posters and designs, you can see the pavilion structure of the tomb of Hafez as a symbol of Shiraz.
Notes from Legendaryiran Experts about Visiting Tomb of Hafez:
- Saadieh, the tomb of another great Iranian poet, i.e., Saadi is near the tomb of Hafez, so don’t miss visiting this Shiraz tourist attraction as well.
- Hafezieh is one of the few Shiraz tourist attractions open until night (about 10 pm depending on the season). Therefore, it is better to postpone your visit to the late hours of the day so that you have time to visit other Shiraz tourist attractions that become closed earlier.
- During the Persian new year and the first days of Nowruz, Hafezieh is full of a young, happy, and lively crowd, and it is open until late at night and sometimes until the morning.
Eram Garden (Bagh-e Eram)
Eram Garden is a historic Persian garden in Shiraz and one of the nine Persian gardens inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Besides, Bagh-e Eram is a botanical garden that dates back to 800 years ago, where you can see many different plant species from around the world. Moreover, the garden is full of Sarv-e Naz (a kind of cypress), the most important tree, and the symbol of Shiraz. Furthermore, in this Shiraz historical place, you can see a gorgeous mansion with a large pool. Also, at the four corners of the pond, there are four tall and beautiful Phoenix palms.
Why You Should Visit Eram Garden
1- Eram Garden is one of the nine Iranian gardens whose name is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
2- In this Shiraz point of interest, you have the opportunity to wear traditional clothes and take photos with them.
3- This Persian garden’s plants are spectacular and unique, and the tallest cypress of Shiraz is among them.
4- The architecture of this monument is stunning.
Notes from Legendaryiran Experts about Visiting Eram Garden:
- The best season to visit this botanical garden is spring, when all the trees are green, the weather is pleasant, and the flowers’ and blossoms’ fragrances fill the garden.
- The avenue of Eram Garden is a paved street lined with old and beautiful trees. So, to fully enjoy Eram Garden, we recommend taking a stroll along this street.
- During the night, different kinds of street foods are sold near Eram Garden. These are great places to meet the locals and taste the light street food.
- In the vicinity of Eram Garden, you will find good restaurants and cozy cafes.
Vakil Bazaar
Vakil Bazaar is the heart of the Vakil complex and one of the top Shiraz tourist attractions. Built during the Zand dynasty, this traditional bazaar is located in the city’s historical center. The Vakil Bazaar is a trade hub for Persian rugs, spices, wood, copper, and silver handicrafts.
So, it is an ideal spot for tourists to spend a couple of hours strolling, meeting locals, purchasing Persian handicrafts, and relaxing in its cozy cafes.
Why You Should Visit Vakil Bazaar
1- It is one of Shiraz’s most famous points of interest.
2- The unique atmosphere of this market makes memorable moments for you.
3- Shiraz Vakil Bazaar is one of the most famous traditional markets in Iran and, of course, a shopping destination in Shiraz, where you can buy colorful Persian handicrafts.
Notes from Legendaryiran Experts about Visiting Vakil Bazaar:
- Vakil Bazaar is closed on Fridays and public holidays.
The best souvenirs in this market are Khatam, Gilim, carpet, Mina, Ghalamkar fabrics, copper containers, and silver accessories. - Do not miss to visit Saray-e Moshir, a small beautiful bazaar inside the Vakil Bazaar.
- In the vicinity of this Shiraz tourist attraction, you will find good restaurants and cozy cafes.
- Vakil Bazaar is located near other Vakil monuments such as the Vakil mosque, Vakil bath, Karim Khan Citadel, and Pars Museum. So, don’t forget to visit other monuments in the neighborhood.
Vakil Mosque
Vakil Mosque is one of the most significant monuments of the Zandiyeh Complex (Vakil Complex). It’s a great mosque with picturesque architecture belonging to the Zand dynasty. Notably, the large size of this building and the beauty and architectural principles used in this mosque has made it one of the top 10 places to visit in Shiraz. Accordingly, the unique decorations of this mosque include stunning tiles, 48 stone columns, a large pond, and an integrated marble pulpit. Also, the lack of high elements such as domes and minarets and the use of intimate brick texture make this site one of the best places to see in Shiraz.
Why You Should Visit Vakil Mosque
1- This Shiraz tourist attraction is one of the most beautiful mosques in Iran.
2- Vakil mosque stands near the Vakil Bazaar and Karim Khan Citadel, two of the top places to see in Shiraz.
3- It has impressive architecture and is famous for its beautiful stone pillars.
4- You can see eye-catching decorations and colors in this Shiraz tourist attraction.
Notes from Legendaryiran Experts about Visiting Vakil Mosque:
- Vakil Mosque is located near other Vakil monuments such as the Vakil Bazaar, Vakil bath, Karim Khan Citadel, and Pars Museum. So, don’t forget to visit other monuments in the neighborhood.
- In the vicinity of this shiraz tourist attraction, you will find good restaurants and cozy cafes.
Nasir ol Molk Mosque (Pink Mosque)
Nasir ol Molk mosque, one of the top 10 places to visit in Shiraz, is a masterpiece that belongs to Qajar Era. Also, the mosque is known as the “Pink Mosque” due to the use of pink tiles in its decoration.
Early in the morning, the colorful mosaic windows capture the light and turn the mosque into a vast kaleidoscope. Hence, the Rainbow Mosque, Mosque of colors, and the Kaleidoscope Mosque are the other names of this significant Shiraz tourist attraction. Consequently, from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., you can take magical pictures of the mosque’s interior due to the light reflection. In contrast, if you wait until sunset, you can take beautiful photos of the Pearl Arch.
Why You Should Visit Nasir ol Molk Mosque
1- This Shiraz tourist attraction is famous for its stained glass windows, colorful tiling, and delicate Muqarnas.
2- It is an excellent site for photography.
3- The use of pink color in the tiles of this mosque has made its appearance more spectacular.
4- Regarding the tourists’ feedback, it is one of the most popular attractions in Iran.
Notes from Legendaryiran Experts about Visiting Nasir ol Molk Mosque:
- Visit this shiraz tourist attraction early in the morning, around 8 am, when the morning light comes through the stained glass and creates a picturesque scene.
- Wear white or bright monochrome clothes, so your photos look nicer under the mosque’s colored light.
- Ladies should wear a kind of hijab, a long cloth called “Chador,” to enter the Pink Mosque. You can borrow Chador at the entrance gate.
Persepolis (Takht-e Jamshid)
The Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BC) is a familiar name to all history lovers, and the ancient city of Persepolis or Takht-e Jamshid is a valuable relic of this dynasty. Also, the name of this ancient Shiraz historical place shines on Iran’s UNESCO World Heritage List.
The notable features of Persepolis are its columns and rock engravings representing the glory of old Iran.
Why You Should Visit Persepolis
1- Persepolis is one of valuable Iran’s UNESCO heritage sites.
2- This Shiraz monument is the masterpiece of the Achaemenids, one of the world’s largest and most powerful empires.
3- This Shiraz tourist attraction has hosted many celebrations throughout history, such as Nowruz (Persian new year celebration).
4- In terms of architecture and structure, it is a masterpiece in the world.
5- Many consider it the most significant and famous monument in Iran.
6- In many posters and designs, you can see the engravings and columns of Persepolis as a symbol of Iran.
Notes from Legendaryiran Experts about Visiting Persepolis:
- If you visit this place during summer, do not forget to protect yourself from the sunshine by using sunglasses, sunscreen, a light shirt, and a hat.
- During summer, plan to visit this place in the morning or around sunset to avoid unbearably hot weather.
- Food, baby carriages, backpacks, baggage, and pets are not allowed in this historical site.
- It would be a good idea to visit this Shiraz tourist attraction and Naqsh-e Rostam on the same day, as they are close to each other but far from Shiraz.
- If you are traveling from Shiraz to Isfahan or Yazd, you can visit Persepolis on your way.
Best Places to Visit in Shiraz at a Glance (Updated 2022)
In the table below, you can find useful information about the top 10 places to visit in Shiraz that we have introduced in the sections above.
Finally, please ask your questions or share your comments regarding the top 10 places to visit in Shiraz. We appreciate your valuable comments, and they will also be helpful to others.
Most Frequent Questions and Answers about
Top 10 Places to Visit in Shiraz
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