Tehran or Islamic Republic of Iran, Persia is the capital of Iran and Tehran Province. Tehran is the largest city and urban area of Iran, and the 3rd-largest in the Middle East. Tehran is the economic center of Iran. Iran's public-sector workforce and large industrial firms are located in the city and almost half of these workers are employed by the government. Most of the remainder of workers are factory workers, shopkeepers, laborers and transport workers.
Overview
Tehran is Iran's capital and Iran's largest city with a population of approximately 14 million. A modern and cosmopolitan city - Tehran offers enough for a visitor to Iran, from great parks, museums, outdoor activities and plenty of shopping choices, while the most memorable images of Iran will have to await a visit to Esfahan and Shiraz.
Getting around
There are some domectic airlines that runs services to Abdan, Ahwaz, Esfahan, Kish, Mashhad, Shiraz, Tabriz, Tehran and Zahedan and other major cities. The vast size of Iran often makes internal flights the most practical method of transport.
Travelling by bus or car is available as the road network is extensive. The two main roads are the A1 and A2 which link the Iraqi and Pakistani borders and the Afghan and Turkish borders. Car rental services are available in most cities and from airports.
Legitimate taxis are available in all cities. The urban taxis (orange or blue) carry several passengers at a time and are much cheaper than the private taxis which only carry one person. Group taxis for up to 10 people are available for intercity travel.
See & do
Admire the majesty of Golestan Palace:
Golestan was the royal home of the Qajar dynasty. The palace complex within the old city walls dates back to the Safavid dynasty, right at the beginning of Islamic Persia, but it took on its current shape largely in the 19th century with a blend of traditional Islamic architecture and Western influences.
Bling-watch at the Treasury of National Jewels:
From ancient Persia to the 19th-century Qajar dynasty, this country has been subject to many extravagant reigns. Tehran’s National Jewels Museum showcases some of the most opulent regalia, including an ornamental world globe made from more than 50,000 different precious stones.
Go Persian rug shopping:
There is literally no better place to go shopping for Persian rugs, and throughout the city bazaars with plenty of different vendors. It's best to throw yourself into the full experience – drink tea, choose a favourite and barter with a smile.
Skiing:
Skiing can be found within an hour drive from the city. If you are skiing lovers, traveling to Tehran during the winter will be a great choice when you will enjoy terrific view of snow-capped Mt. Damavand.
Hidden gems
From November to April, taking a coach to Shemshak in the north-east of Tehran in the Alborz mountain range for skiing is terrific. Shemshak is considered as next in rank to Dizin ski complex. The slopes lie at an altitude of 2,550 meters to 3,050 meters above the sea level. Fresh weather as well as closeness of the region to Tehran are the main reasons to attract both foreign and local tourists. You will enjoy an interesting ski till midnight by the lightened spectacular scene.
Food & drink
Rice is the staple food and the Iranians cook it in style, eating it with wheat bread, yoghurt, lamb and aubergines. Typical Persian flavours are subtle, with cinnamon, cloves, turmeric, cardamom and saffron all delicately blended.
Garlic and lime also feature heavily. Many Iranians make their own yoghurt, which can be used as an ingredient in many dishes or as a cool and refreshing drink. Kebabs, served either in oven-fresh bread or with rice, tend to dominate menus, but there are plenty more besides. Some specialties are, for example, Chelokhoresh: Rice topped with vegetables and meat in a nut sauce, Polo chirin: Sweet-sour saffron-coloured rice with raisins, almonds and orange, Abgusht: Mutton and chickpea stew, Bademjan: Aubergine and tomato stew, Doogh: A cold drink made from yoghurt and mineral water.
