Tehran top things

Tehran, is the capital of Iran and Tehran Province. With a population of around 8.3 million and surpassing 14 million in the wider metropolitan area, Tehran is Iran's largest city and urban area, and the largest city in Western Asia.

The city is home to many historic mosques, churches, synagogues and Zoroastrian fire temples. However, modern structures, notably Azadi (Freedom) Tower and the Milad Tower, have come to symbolize the city.

Welcome to Tehran, the city of colorful lights, intriguing sounds and never-ending motion.

Here is a list of top 10 attractions in Tehran to encourage you to pay a visit to and examine this modern and also historical urban center!

Golestan Palace

The lavish Golestan Palace is a World Heritage Site. The palace built during the Qajar Dynasty that rose to power in the late 1700’s, this fabulous walled complex is centered on a landscaped garden with tranquil pools. Many of the elements you’ll admire today date to the 19th century when local Qajari architects and artisans were looking to integrate traditional Persian style with elements of Western and Russian origin.

The National Jewelry Treasury

Treasury of the National Jewels is the largest collection of jewels found anywhere in the world. You’ll get to see the collection of jewels including Darya-e-Noor diamond, the sister diamond to the Kuh-e-Noor diamond. Other highlights include the world’s largest uncut ruby and a free standing golden globe made from 34 kilograms of gold and an astounding 51,366 precious stones.

The National Museum of Iran

The National Museum of Iran houses a marvelous collection including ceramics, stone figures and carvings dating from around the 5th millennium BC. Many of the relics are taken from excavations at Persepolis, Shush, Ray and Turang Tappé and will probably mean more to you if you come here after you've visited the archaeological sites. 

Tabiat Bridge

The Tabiat bridge is called the nature bridge because of its design. It is built like a steel tree. There are lovely parks either side, great views and nice restaurants, tea places and an ice cream parlour inside. 

Sa’ad Abad Palace

Sa’ad Abad Palace was the coronation and marriage palace of the Pahlavi Dynasty – and the residence from which the last Shah of Iran fled after the Islamic Revolution in 1979. Now a museum, its extensive collection includes period furnishings and décor, and even the personal effects of the last Shah. 

Milad Tower

Milad Tower, also known as the Tehran Tower, is a multi-purpose tower in Tehran, Iran. It is the sixth tallest tower and the 17th tallest freestanding structure in the world. 

Grand Bazaar, Tehran

Tehran Bazaar is one of the must-see places to visit during your stay in Tehran. This place is the heart of Persian culture and trading. Tehran Bazaar controls a third of Iran's entire retail and trade sector. Prices here set the standard for prices across the country, and the carpet dealers and other merchants can supply loans almost as readily as the banks. 

The Glass & Ceramics Museum

The Glass & Ceramics Museum is one of the most impressive in Tehran, not only for its professionally organized exhibits, but also for the building itself. 

Tochal Sport and Recreational Complex

At the end of Velenjak St. (take the Metro line 1 to Gheytarieh, then any bus or taxi to Tajrish Square (about 5 minutes). Ask the driver to let you off at Meidan Tajrish.  If you visit on a holiday when Tehranis flock to the mountain, you should be able to jump in a shared taxi to the telecabin entry gate for 4,000 rials.