Iran: Treasures of Persia

Resort:	Iran: Treasures of Persia
Operator:	Cox and Kings
Destination:	Iran
Price From:	£2395.00

Overview

The fantastically rich and varied history of Iran has left behind an unparalleled cultural heritage. This tour reveals the best of that legacy, including the supreme Islamic architecture of Isfahan and Shiraz, the ancient Achaemenian capital of Pasargadae and the splendid bas-reliefs of the Palace of Persepolis.

Itinerary

Day 1: Fly to Tehran

Fly overnight from London (regional connections available) to Tehran, via Istanbul, with Turkish Airlines. (N)

Day 2: Tehran

Early morning arrival and transfer to the Espinas International or Azadi Grand (or similar) for immediate occupancy. Afternoon visit to Tehrans museums before returning to the hotel for an overnight stay. (B)

Day 3: Fly to Shiraz

This morning, fly to Shiraz. On arrival, take a guided city tour of Shiraz including visits to the Hafez and Saadi tombs, the Narenjestane-Ghavam historical house, the Nasir al-Mulk mosque and the Vakil bazaar. Stay at the Homa or Grand Shiraz (or similar) for 2 nights. (B, D)

Day 4: Persepolis Naghsh-e-Rostam

Visit Persepolis, Darius the Greats summer capital, to view the magnificent stone terrace and palace. Continue to Naghsh-e-Rostam, the site of the royal tombs and Sassanian rock reliefs. (B)

Day 5: Pasargadae Yazd

Drive to Yazd, via Pasargadae, the first dynastic capital of the Achaemenian empire, founded by Cyrus the Great in sixth century BC. View the Mausoleum of Cyrus the Great, Tall-e-Takht and the presidential palace. Continue to Yazd and stay at the Dad Hotel (or similar) for 2 nights. (B, L)

Day 6: Yazd

Tour the Dowlat-Abad garden, the Zoroastrian fire temple, an abandoned Zoroastrian Tower of Silence and the Jameh mosque. (B, D)

Day 7: Nain Isfahan

Drive to Isfahan, stopping at Nain to view the Jameh mosque and the Pirnia traditional house, built in the Safavid era. Stay at the Abbasi Hotel (or similar) for 3 nights. (B, L)

Day 8: Isfahan

Full-day tour of the citys monuments, including Naghsh-e Jahan Square, the Imam and Sheikh Lotfollah mosques, and the Khaju Bridge. Conclude with a visit to the impressive Ali Qapu palace. (B, D)

Day 9: Isfahan

Full-day visit to the Vank Cathedral, the Chehel Sotoun palace and the Jameh mosque of Isfahan, which is inscribed as a Unesco world heritage site. During the day enjoy a traditional Persian music performance. (B, D)

Day 10: Natanz Kashan Tehran

Drive to Tehran, stopping at Natanz and Kashan en route to visit the Fin gardens and the former merchants house of Taba-Tabai. Stay at the Novotel Hotel (or similar) for 1 night. (B)