photos of iran persepolis ruins

Iran’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it an appealing destination for those seeking an enriching and unforgettable travel experience.

Here are 20 photos of Iran that will change the way you see this truly unique country.

1)  Village of Abyaneh

The historic mud-brick village of Abyaneh is located at the base of Mt Karkas. 

It is known for its traditional architecture created from red soil. 

photos of iran abyaneh red village
The red village of Abyaneh

2) Masjed-e Jameh Mosque in Yazd

The city of Yazd is one of the highlights in Iran and the incredible Masjed-e Jameh (Mosque) dates back to the 12th century and has the tallest minarets in Iran.

photos of iran mosque in Yazd
The mosque in the city of Yazd

3) Tea with sugar sticks

Tea is the traditional drink in Iran and it’s often served with sugar sticks to sweeten it.

photos of iran tea with sugar stick

4) Iranian homes are beautiful

An invitation to an Iranian home should be always accepted, as it will offer you a real insight into the culture.

And do come hungry, the amount of food always offered by your hosts is endless.

photos of iran iranian home
Iranian homes are beautiful.

5) Iranian cuisine 

Iranian cuisine is vibrant, rich, and nothing like you’ve tasted before. Additionally, every region has its own dish to try. My advice is to try as many Iranian dishes as you can as this cuisine is special.

You wouldn’t believe how many of my photos of Iran are of the delicious food I ate here.

Don’t miss these Top 10 Most Delicious Foods from Iran.

photos of iran iranian food
We love Iranian cuisine.

6) Doors in Iran

You will find architectural delights on every corner. Beautiful door decorated with fine mosaics and colourful tiles. 

photos of iran doors

7) Persepolis

The mind-blowing ruins of Persepolis, the ancient Persian capital from the 6th to 4th century B.C.

Read more about Persepolis in our post – 20 Most AMAZING Archaeological Sites you Must See.

photos of iran persepolis
The magnificent ancient ruins of Persepolis

8) Iranian kebab & rice

This is the staple dish of Iran. It can be found virtually everywhere.

What I love most about Iranian kebabs is the smoky flavour of the meat due to it being grilled over charcoal.

Oh, and you will miss it when you leave. Are you enjoying our photos of Iran so far?

photos of iran kebab and rice
Iranian kebab and rice. So good!

9) Masouleh

The terraced rooftop village of Masouleh, one of the most beautiful villages in Western Iran. Of all my photos of Iran, the ones taken here in Masouleh were my favourites.

We captured some photos in the evening time when the small streets were bustling with people visiting and eating out at some of the many rooftop restaurants.

As this part of Iran is so near to the neighbouring country of Georgia, I thought the food was some of the best I’ve eaten in Iran. 

Georgia is also a country that we absolutely loved visiting. Definitely consider stopping by if you plan on making plans to travel to Iran. Read our Ultimate Georgia Armenia Azerbaijan Itinerary. 

You will discover so many amazing things to eat in Georgia in our Georgian Food Guide.

This is a country with so many cool things to see and do. Here are the top 9 Best Cafes in the capital city, Tbilisi & some ideas on Where to Stay in Tbilisi.

photos of iran Masouleh rooftop village
The roof-top village of Masouleh

10) Iranian sweets are incredible

Iranian sweets are from another world. Rich, sweet, and delicious.

These sweets taste so good paired with fresh Iranian tea.

photos of iran sweets
Iranian sweets are incredible. So many different varieties, try and taste them all.

11) Spices in Iran

Iranian spice mix for sale at the local market in Shiraz. The presentation is art on its own.

photos of iran spices
So many fresh Iranian spices to be found in markets

12) Iman Square in Isfahan

Imam Square is a massive square surrounded by three mosques in the heart of Isfahan. It is one of the most famous and historically significant squares in Iran and the world.

photos of iran Iran square isfahan
Women enjoying the sunshine at Iran Square in the beautiful city of Isfahan

13) The streets of Iran

The streets of Iran and the life that takes place will open your eyes to “real” Iran.

photos of iran streets

14) Iranian deserts

Vast desert near the city of Fahraj.

photos of iran desert
Desert in Iran

15) The beautiful Nasir al-Mulk Mosque 

The magnificent inside of Nasir al-Mulk Mosque from the 19th century.

It is known for its extensive use of coloured glass. Come here at sunrise for some spectacular photos and a perfect kind of silence.

photos of iran Nasir al-Mulk Mosque
The beautiful Nasir al-Mulk Mosque

16) Markets in Shiraz

The market in Shiraz – A local vendor selling fresh pistachios and other nuts.

Don’t miss out on visiting the markets in the cities and villages you visit in Iran. 

photos of iran pistachio vendor
A market vendor selling fresh pistachios and nuts

17) Sunsets in Iran

The rooftop view of Jameh Mosque in Yazd at sunset. We’ve taken many sunset photos of Iran, and with the stunning architecture, can you blame us?

photos of iran Jameh Mosque in Yazd
Sunsets are pretty special here. Just look at this architecture

18) The village of Abyaneh

The village of Abyaneh is every bit unique. The women of Abyaneh wear a long headscarf with floral designs, covering their hair and shoulders.

They also wear colourful dresses, along with a special pair of pants.

photos of iran abyaneh village
Traditional dress of the locals in the village of Abyaneh in Iran

19) Iranian bread

A local baker takes a break to pose for a photo. Iranians have at least six types of bread, each is meant for a different type of food and occasion.

photos of iran baker
the local baker in the rooftop village of Masouleh

20) Iranian people

photos of iran iranian people
Iranian people are the most hospitable people we’ve met.

Iranian people will become the most memorable part of your visit to Iran. Welcoming, well-educated, warm, and generous. We left Iran with a heart full of love for these wonderful people and we look forward to returning again in the future.

We’ve got so many more photos of Iran, however, we wanted to show you in pictures why you should plan a visit here.

Travel to Iran with a group tour company, a private tour or travel around the country independently, as we did.

Either way, this is a country that is sure to pleasantly surprise you!

Travel Tips for Iran

You may enjoy reading about Masouleh – a beautiful rooftop village in Iran and these 8 Reasons why you should travel to Iran.

There is often confusion about the two countries of Iran v Iraq – learn the main differences between them here.

If you’re planning on travelling further in this part of the world, check out our ultimate Georgia, Armenia & Azerbaijan Itinerary. Or if you only have time to visit just one of these countries, we’d recommend visiting Georgia – it’s wonderful, and just next door to Iran.

We’ve got all the information you need for where to stay in Tbilisi, Georgia, and our Food Lovers Guide to Georgia will be very useful for exploring this country.

If you’d like more of our travel advice, see our post about our expert travel tips from 15+ years of travel.