Isfahan Tourist Attractions | 20 Top Places to Visit in Iran

Isfahan Tourist Attractions, Naqshe Jahan Square

Isfahan Naqshe Jahan Square

At the heart of Isfahan lies Naqsh-e Jahan Square, a remarkable architectural gem that enchants visitors from near and far. Recognized as one of Iran's UNESCO World Heritage sites, this expansive complex features four prominent buildings and is a must-see for all tourists. Spanning over 500 meters in length and 160 meters in width, the square is lined with 200 shops across two levels.
Before the Safavid dynasty, this site was home to a large garden, accompanied by military structures from the Timurid and Aq Qoyunlu periods. Since the Seljuk era, Naqsh-e Jahan Square has served as a venue for national celebrations, such as Nowruz, and was also a site for the execution of condemned prisoners. When the capital was relocated from Qazvin to Isfahan during the Safavid era, the square transformed into a hub for governmental buildings and the king's palace.

Naqshe Jahan Square From Above

Design of Naqshe Jahan Square

The design of Naqsh-e Jahan Square draws inspiration from traditional Iranian architectural styles, with notable examples including Atiq Square in Isfahan, Amir Chakhmaq Square in Yazd, and Shah Square in Qazvin. As one of the largest squares in the world, it hosted royal celebrations, polo matches, military parades, Friday markets, and various performances during the Safavid period, with the entire square beautifully illuminated for these events. Two stone gateways for polo remain as some of the oldest polo gates in existence.
Naqsh-e Jahan Square is known by several names, including Shah Square, Imam Square, Grand Square, Main Square, New Square, Palace Square, and Royal Square. Today, the shops surrounding the square are recognized as venues for showcasing Isfahan's exquisite handicrafts, while an Islamic museum is currently under construction on its upper level.

Visit Iran, Isfahan Ali-Qapu Palace

Isfahan Ali-Qapu Palace

The Ali-Qapu Palace, one of Iran's most significant architectural treasures, is situated on the western side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square. Commissioned by Shah Abbas I of the Safavid dynasty, this grand structure served as the residence for Safavid kings and functioned as a royal palace for official meetings and the reception of foreign dignitaries. The balcony of the palace provided a vantage point for Shah Abbas and his entourage to observe polo matches, horseback riding events, and fireworks in the square below. Interestingly, Ali Qapu also acted as a refuge for criminals and wrongdoers.
With its remarkable architecture and exquisite decorations, Ali Qapu attracts numerous domestic and international tourists. The entrance to the palace features opulent halls, a music hall, striking artworks, and intricately designed wooden pillars that exemplify the architectural splendor of this magnificent structure. Throughout the palace, visitors can admire distinguished artistic works, including calligraphy, miniatures, mirror work, seven-colored tiles, arabesques, floral paintings, hunting scenes, and exquisite stuccowork.

Inside of Isfahan Ali-Qapu Palace

At the center of the porch lies a copper basin adorned with marble stones; historically, this basin featured fountains. The interior of Ali Qapu is characterized by intricately patterned carpets, muqarnas decorations, and gilded lighting. The name "Ali Qapu" is derived from an Azerbaijani term meaning "the great gate." Historical texts recount that when Shah Abbas took a silver door to Imam Ali's shrine in Najaf, he returned with the original door as a blessing for Isfahan and installed it at Ali Qapu. Those favored by the king would approach the palace door with special ceremonies, kiss it, and fervently pray for the kingâ€™s greatness and power. Shah Abbas himself would dismount his horse in a gesture of respect upon passing through this gate. Remarkably, even until a few years ago, people would gather around the palace to cook ash (a type of soup), make vows, and tie strings as offerings to the chains at the door.

Isfahan Tourist Attractions, Shah Mosque

Isfahan Shah Mosque

The Shah Mosque (also known as the Royal Mosque, Abbasi Mosque, or Imam Mosque) is one of the beautiful and valuable structures located in Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan, situated on its southern side. This mosque was built during the Safavid era under the command of Shah Abbas I, funded by his personal resources. He dedicated the merits of constructing the mosque to the soul of his great ancestor, Shah Tahmasp Safavid. With its beautiful design and architectural grandeur, the mosque features exquisite seven-colored tile work, inlay work, gilding, silver work, Nasta'liq and Kufic calligraphy, marble stones, precious stone basins, and marble vases, making it one of the masterpieces of art.
The motifs of peacocks, sparrows, and floral branches in the mosque's tile work symbolize eternity, paradise, and its lush and everlasting gardens. The mosque's pulpit is made of saffron stone, and its turquoise minarets are adorned with Islamic motifs. The orientation of the Qibla (the direction of prayer) for this mosque was calculated with precision by Sheikh Baha'i, a famous scholar, jurist, and mathematician of the Shah Abbas era. This Qibla orientation, achieved using the tools of that time, deviates only seven degrees from the actual direction of the Qibla.

Visit Iran, Isfahan Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque

Isfahan Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque

Sheikh Lotfollah was one of the most distinguished Shia scholars during the Safavid period, originally from Lebanon. He came to Iran at the invitation of Shah Abbas I, who commissioned the construction of Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque as a center for education, teaching, and prayer. This mosque, located in Naqsh-e Jahan Square opposite the Ali Qapu Palace, took 18 years to complete. The mosque showcases a rich array of Iranian artistic traditions, including inlaid tiles, Thuluth and Nasta'liq calligraphy, intricate muqarnas, and exquisite floral motifs, making it one of Isfahan's architectural masterpieces. Visitors are captivated by its stunning light-colored dome, which reverberates sound seven times, its vibrant seven-colored tiles, spiraled turquoise accents, and an elegant octagonal pool.
The main prayer hall is the highlight of the mosqueâ€™s grandeur. This square hall measures 19 meters on each side and transforms into an octagon as it rises, ultimately becoming a circle at the base of the dome. This innovative transition from square to circle has roots in Sassanid architectural practices. The mosque's lighting design is remarkable, reflecting the architect's mastery over light. Two latticed windows beneath the dome are strategically positioned with openings that do not face each other, causing light to refract twice before entering the space. This clever design softens the intensity of the light, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Additionally, the Quranic verses inscribed on the outer walls are meticulously aligned with the angles of light, allowing sunlight to illuminate one verse at each hour of the day, gradually shining on different verses throughout the day.

Isfahan Tourist Attractions, Qeysarieh Bazaar

Isfahan Qeysarieh Bazaar

The fourth structure in Naqsh-e Jahan Square is the Qeysariyeh Bazaar (Royal Bazaar), commissioned by Shah Abbas I of the Safavid dynasty. This covered bazaar was one of the most luxurious shopping centers in the city during the Safavid period and continues to thrive today. As you enter, you are welcomed by a seemingly endless array of shops and traditional stalls. The bazaar is brimming with vendors offering carpets, handicrafts, spices, souvenirs, local clothing, and much more. Architecturally stunning, the Qeysariyeh Bazaar features an entrance adorned with exquisite tile work, captivating paintings, and distinctive motifs. Renowned for its unparalleled design, this bazaar is regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world.

Visit Iran, Isfahan Khaju Bridge

Isfahan Khaju Bridge

The Khaju Bridge, celebrated as one of the most beautiful bridges in the world during the Safavid era, was primarily constructed as a dam to regulate water flow. Located east of Si-o-se-pol, its symmetrical design spans the Zayandeh River and provides breathtaking views, especially after sunset. Commissioned by Shah Abbas II, the bridge features 16 water drainage openings that enhance its functionality. The structure is further adorned with intricate grooves and exquisite tile work, showcasing the artistry of its era.

Isfahan Tourist Attractions, Si-o-se-pol Bridge

Isfahan Si-o-se-pol Bridge

The Si-o-se-pol Bridge, an iconic symbol of Isfahan, gracefully spans the Zayandeh River with its remarkable 33 arches. Stretching 295 meters in length and 14 meters in width, it is the longest bridge over the river. Constructed in the early 17th century, Si-o-se-pol was designed to serve both as a bridge and a dam, and it has since become a cherished landmark and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Throughout its history, the bridge has been a gathering place for poets, dignitaries, and prominent figures, hosting various celebrations and ceremonies. Events such as the Water Sprinkling Festival, the Armenian Khaj Shuyan ceremony, and Nowruz festivities have transformed the bridge into a vibrant venue adorned with flowers and lights, creating a breathtaking spectacle for attendees.
The ideal time to visit Si-o-se-pol is when the Zayandeh River is full, allowing for stunning reflections of the bridge in the water. Standing strong for over four centuries, Si-o-se-pol is not only an impressive feat of engineering but also a testament to the resilience of its ancient builders. A visit to this magnificent bridge provides an excellent opportunity to engage with locals, exchange cultural knowledge, and immerse oneself in the rich history and architecture of Isfahan.

Visit Iran, Isfahan Chehel Sotoun Palace

Isfahan Chehel Sotoun Palace

The Chehel Sotoun Palace is one of the royal palaces from the Safavid era, featuring 20 tall columns. The number of columns appears to double with their reflection in the pool's water. This palace is stunning with its gilded decorations, mirror work, large wall paintings, and beautiful tile work. The magnificent wooden columns, lush trees, and water pool create a visually appealing atmosphere, while the paintings depict historical events from various periods. Currently, Chehel Sotoun Palace functions as a museum showcasing various artifacts, including pottery, glassware, rare Kufic manuscripts of the Quran, prehistoric coins, inscriptions, and antique carpets. The Chehel Sotoun Palace is a magnificent royal palace built during the Safavid era in Isfahan, Iran. The palace is located in the middle of a park and was built by Shah Abbas II for his entertainment and receptions.

Reflection of Pillars in the Water

The name "Chehel Sotoun" means "Forty Columns" in Persian, inspired by the twenty slender wooden columns supporting the entrance pavilion, which, when reflected in the water of the fountain, appear to be forty. The palace's decoration, including goldsmithing, mirror work, large wall paintings, and beautiful tile work, is a testament to the skilled artisans of the time. The lush trees, magnificent wooden columns, and pool create a captivating atmosphere, making it a popular destination for visitors. The palace's paintings depict historical events from different periods, providing a glimpse into Iran's rich history. Today, the Chehel Sotoun Palace serves as a museum, showcasing various ceramics, mirror work, Kufic manuscript copies of the Quran, prehistoric coins, ancient inscriptions, and carpets. A visit to the palace is an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich history and culture of Iran's Safavid era.

Isfahan Tourist Attractions, Chahar Bagh School

Isfahan Chahar Bagh School

The Chahar Bagh School, formerly known as the Sultan School and Shah's Mother School, was constructed during the Safavid dynasty under Shah Sultan Hussein. This building is recognized as the last significant architectural work completed in Isfahan during the Safavid era. The Chahar Bagh School is often regarded as one of Isfahan's tile-work museums, celebrated for its stunning tile artistry that showcases a variety of styles, including seven-colored tiles, intricate mosaic work, geometric patterns, and muqarnas. The presence of ancient plane trees and a flowing stream further enhances the architectural beauty of this site.
Situated on Chahar Bagh Abbasi Street, the Chahar Bagh School once boasted extensive endowments, which included gardens, farms, villages, properties, shops, caravanserais, and other real estate. It also featured a rare and valuable library filled with precious and unique books accessible to religious students and researchers of the time. Regrettably, all of these treasures were lost during the Afghan invasion.

A room inside Hasht Behesht (wikipedia)

Isfahan Hasht Behesht Palace

Hasht Behesht Palace is one of Isfahan's historical and beautiful palaces built during the Safavid era. This two-story palace is situated in a large garden and was once referred to as the most beautiful palace in the world. The expansive garden where the building is located was part of the larger Naqsh-e Jahan Garden. This structure is adorned with a combination of various arts such as mirror work, engraving, painting, and tile work, making it one of the finest examples of Safavid royal architecture. Travelers who have seen Hasht Behesht Palace up close have called it one of the best buildings in the world. One traveler described Hasht Behesht as "more delightful than the most luxurious palaces in European countries."

Visit Iran, Isfahan Menar Jonban

Isfahan Menar Jonban

The Menar Jonban is a captivating and unique architectural structure found in various cities across Iran and around the world. Characterized by its two shaking minarets, this remarkable design causes one minaret to sway when the other is moved. The Menar Jonban in Isfahan, located on Atashgah Street, is one of the most renowned examples of this structure in Iran and serves as a significant tourist attraction. In addition to Isfahan's Menar Jonban, similar structures can be found in other parts of Iran. For instance, the Menar Jonban in Kharanq, Yazd, is famous for being entirely constructed of adobe. Moving minarets are also present in the Jame Mosque of Nishapur.
A fascinating aspect of the Menar Jonban is its shaking mechanism, which operates on the principles of resonance or the law of amplification. According to this physical theory, when two connected strings of equal weight and height are shaken, the movement of one will inevitably cause the other to vibrate as well. In this way, the two minarets of the Menar Jonban function similarly to these interconnected strings.

Shaking Minarets in Isfahan

How does Menar Jonban work?

The Menar Jonban complex includes the structures of the minarets, the entrance porch, and the Chilla house. The minarets of this structure are 17 meters high and are decorated with turquoise polygonal tiles and four-pointed star lapis lazuli tiles. The entrance porch is made of brick, and nearby, several white tombstones can be seen, which appear to be remnants of an old cemetery on which the building was constructed. A spiral staircase provides access from the porch to the roof and the minarets of the complex, although its use is prohibited for visitors. The Chilla houses were places for mystics to engage in spiritual retreat, where ascetics would spend 40 days in this simple space in solitude with God. The historical background of the Menar Jonban complex dates back to the Ilkhanid period, but the construction of the minarets and some external decorations on the building belong to the Safavid era. Visitors can tour Menar Jonban in Isfahan from 9 AM to 6 PM. If you are interested in witnessing the swaying of the minarets, they are moved at 10:30 AM, 12 PM, and 1:30 PM during the morning shift, and at 3 PM, 4:30 PM, and 6:30 PM during the afternoon shift.

Isfahan Tourist Attractions, Seashell Museum

Isfahan Seashell Museum

The Shell Museum of Isfahan is one of the important tourist attractions in this city, located in the Najvan Forest Park. This museum is Iran's first specialized museum for shells and marine snails, where beautiful examples of various shells and snails can be observed. In addition to species found in the waters of the Persian Gulf, Oman Sea, and Caspian Sea, it also features fascinating and unique species from different seas and oceans around the world. This collection is one of the rarest in the Middle East and presents over 2,000 samples from 800 different mollusk species (marine shells, gastropods, bivalves, and cephalopods), echinoderms (starfish, sea cucumbers, sea urchins), and crustaceans (crabs). These specimens have been continuously collected and gathered by Captain Daryanvard Hassan Khajeh from waters around the world, from the Bering Strait in Russia to the southeastern waters near Antarctica.

Visit Iran, Isfahan Music Museum

Isfahan Music Museum

The Music Museum of Isfahan is a prominent tourist attraction established by Mehrdad Jihouni and Shahryar Shekarani in 2015. As the only private museum dedicated to the preservation and display of traditional Iranian musical instruments, it features two halls showcasing over 300 pieces of national and local instruments. The museum also includes a workshop where visitors can learn about instrument construction and components, as well as a dedicated hall for introducing notable music masters and instrument makers.
The museum's beautifully designed interior, adorned with exquisite miniature artwork, captivates visitors and appeals to enthusiasts of high art music. Additionally, live performances of various musical compositions and the opportunity to observe how Iranian instruments are played further enhance the museum's charm, making it a unique cultural experience in Isfahan.

Isfahan Tourist Attractions, Bethlehem Church

Isfahan Bethlehem Church

The Church of Bethlehem, built during the Safavid period, is located north of the famous Hakoup and St. Mary churches in Isfahan. This historical landmark features a tall, striking dome that is easily visible from a distance. Both the exterior and interior walls showcase an elegant and remarkable design. Inside, the church is adorned with exquisite murals and intricately crafted wooden sculptures. The murals depict various themes, including the Armenian genocide and vivid representations of hell, making them both beautiful and thought-provoking. Recognized as one of the most stunning churches in the world, the Church of Bethlehem is included among the 23 most beautiful churches listed by The Daily Telegraph. Situated on Eastern Nazer Street in the Grand Square of Jolfa in Isfahan, it serves as a significant tourist attraction in the city.

Visit Iran, Isfahan Saeb Tabrizi Mausoleum

Isfahan Saeb Tabrizi Mausoleum

Saeb Tabrizi was a renowned poet and ghazal writer of the 11th century in the Islamic calendar, born in 1592 in Tabriz. He began his literary career during the Safavid era and quickly gained popularity for his beautiful and romantic poetry. He passed away in 1676 and was laid to rest in the Lenban neighborhood of Isfahan. His tomb, located on Saeb Street, showcases the architectural style of the Safavid period and is surrounded by a lovely, well-maintained garden. The tomb features a striking tall dome, elegant arches, an inner courtyard, intricate columns, and decorative wall embellishments. Each year, a memorial ceremony is held at this site to honor Saeb Tabrizi, drawing literature and poetry enthusiasts who gather to celebrate the legacy of this great poet. As one of Isfahan's notable tourist attractions, the tomb of Saeb Tabrizi continues to captivate visitors.

Isfahan Tourist Attractions, Jameh Mosque

Isfahan Jameh Mosque

The Jameh Mosque of Isfahan, also referred to as the Atiq Mosque or Friday Mosque, is a historic architectural gem in the city, dating back to the 2nd century AH (Islamic calendar). As the oldest historical structure in Isfahan, it holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage site. The mosque is renowned for its four iwans, which are adorned with intricate muqarnas, stunning tile work, exquisite calligraphy, and detailed stucco decorations.

Visit Iran, Isfahan Vank Cathedral

Isfahan Vank Cathedral

Vank Cathedral, also known as the Holy Savior Cathedral, is a stunning historical landmark located in the New Julfa district of Isfahan, Iran. Built in 1606 during the reign of Shah Abbas II, the cathedral was constructed by thousands of Armenians who were forcibly relocated to Isfahan as part of the Shah's scorched-earth policy during the Ottoman War (1603-1618). The name "Vank," meaning "monastery" in Armenian, underscores its importance to the Armenian community that has long resided in this area.
As the largest and most renowned cathedral in Iran, Vank Cathedral features exquisite architecture that harmoniously blends Armenian and Iranian styles. Its design includes a domed sanctuary reminiscent of Iranian mosques, complemented by a semi-octagonal apse and raised chancel typical of Western churches. The cathedral is adorned with vibrant decorations, intricate sculptures, and historical murals that illustrate biblical narratives, including the creation of Adam and Eve, the story of Adam and the forbidden fruit, and the tale of Cain and Abel, along with depictions of paradise and hell.

Vank Cathedral Painting, Top Places to Visit in Iran

Vank Cathedral Painting

The cathedral's courtyard serves as the final resting place for several notable Armenian figures. Within its grounds, visitors can explore various architectural features, including a dome reminiscent of mosque structures, a bell tower, a large clock, a museum, a library, and a memorial dedicated to the victims of the Armenian genocide.
The interior of Vank Cathedral is richly decorated with oil paintings that adorn every wall, arch, and corner, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. The library houses over 700 handwritten books and valuable resources for research in Armenian and medieval European languages and arts. The museum showcases numerous artifacts that reflect the history of both the cathedral and the Armenian community in Isfahan, making Vank Cathedral a significant cultural and historical landmark.

Isfahan Tourist Attractions, Birds Garden

Isfahan Birds Garden

Isfahan's Bird Garden is recognized as one of the city's key tourist attractions, celebrated for its stunning beauty and diverse array of bird species. The garden showcases a variety of birds, including phoenixes, falcons, eagles, partridges, quails, ornamental roosters, owls, pheasants, toucans, and more. Visitors have the opportunity to interact with the birds and observe them up close. In addition to its avian residents, Isfahan's Bird Garden also features a range of reptiles and butterflies. Located adjacent to the Bird Garden is the Isfahan Aquarium, another popular destination that captivates tourists and fish enthusiasts alike with its display of ornamental and marine fish.

Visit Iran, Isfahan Flower Garden

Isfahan Flower Garden

The Flower Garden of Isfahan is a prominent tourist attraction in the city, celebrated for its stunning beauty and diverse array of plants and flowers that continually captivate visitors. This expansive garden features various themed sections, including a rock garden, a medicinal and edible plants garden, a conifer garden, a bulb garden, a rose garden, a daisy garden, and an iris garden. Additionally, several international-style gardens have been created within this space, such as a Japanese garden and a French garden.
Home to over 300 different plant species, the Flower Garden of Isfahan is further enhanced by beautiful lighting, an artificial waterfall, fountains, and water features, along with a greenhouse showcasing a breathtaking Persian carpet of flowers. A picturesque pond within the garden is adorned with water lilies and frequented by ducks and elegant geese. The reflections of trees on the pond's surface and the sound of the cascading waterfall contribute to the serene ambiance.
The best times to visit the Flower Garden are during spring and summer when the flowers and plants are at their most vibrant. Each spring, the garden hosts a Tulip Festival, showcasing a stunning array of colorful tulips that adds to its charm.

Isfahan Tourist Attractions, Jolfa Area

Isfahan Jolfa Area

The Jolfa neighborhood in Isfahan is one of the city's most significant tourist attractions, often referred to as the Armenian quarter. A brief history of this area was highlighted in the section about Vank Cathedral. The charming cobblestone streets, clean pathways, and buildings showcasing a variety of striking architectural styles contribute to the neighborhood's allure. Jolfa is home to ancient churches, tall clock towers, serene blue ponds, winding alleyways, and structures with unique designs, making it a must-visit destination for tourists.
In addition to its stunning architecture, Jolfa offers numerous cafes that fill the air with the enticing aroma of pastries and high-quality coffee. Visitors can enjoy a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere while savoring refreshing drinks and delicious sweets in these establishments. The juice houses in Jolfa are also popular attractions, providing an array of invigorating beverages. The neighborhood boasts 11 historic churches, with Vank Cathedral being the first and most prominent, followed by the churches of Bethlehem and Sarkis.