Tehran, a mixture of history and modernity

The metropolis of Tehran has many historical monuments, places of interest and entertainment; but some important tourist spots may be hidden from view or lost in the crowded streets of Tehran. Most travelers come to this city for business and office works and most of them do not know that Tehran attractions are like treasures in this city, treasures that will definitely make you feel better after a busy day. Continue reading this article to let you know to be more familiar with the capital city of Iran, Tehran.

Golestan Palace

Golestan Palace is one of the World Heritage Sites of Iran in the UNESCO List, which thanks to its unique architecture and decorations, is an ideal place for photographing and capturing extremely beautiful images. This beautiful complex is located in the old part of Tehran and can be easily accessed by public transportation and you will be fascinated by all the beauties, history, architecture, culture and art of Iran. Also, there are several places of interest around Golestan Palace, including Tehran Grand Bazaar, Haj Ali Darvish Tea House, Sabzeh Meydan, Naser Khosrow Street and Dar al-Fonun. Golestan Palace is located in 15th Khordad St, Arg Square. Using the subway is the best way to reach there.

Golestan Palace as one of the most important sites among Tehran attractions, was built during Safavid period, but it gained its importance during Qajar era where Tehran selected as the capital city of Iran. During the Qajar period, this complex was used as a place for ruling and royal residence, as well as training artists and architects, and therefore the palace was an important center for art production in the 19th century. Also, due to the occurrence of important events inside the palace, is one of the most important places of Iranian history.

Golestan Palace consists of a historical complex that includes several royal palaces and halls in a garden. The architecture of this complex began with Iranian architecture and then trade, political and cultural relations with European countries led to changes based on Neo classical European architecture. For this reason, today we are witnessing a combination of Iranian and European architectural styles that dazzle the eyes of every viewer.

Perhaps the most famous building of the Golestan Palace can be considered Shams al-Amareh; a tall building that is one of its most prominent attractions and was once considered a symbol of the capital. Nasser al-Din Shah fell in love with their skyscrapers during his European travels, so he ordered the construction of this building so that he could climb it with his wives and see the view of Tehran and its surroundings.

Tehran Grand Bazar

Tehran Grand Bazar is one of the most important markets in the country, which is considered as the heart of Iran’s economy; Because a lot of economic activity takes place here. This bazaar, as one of the interesting Tehran attractions, located in the old part of Tehran, is a relic of the Qajar era, which is attractive not only for domestic tourists, but also for foreign tourists. In addition, it is a great destination for lovers of shopping due to the variety of goods and cheaper prices. Although Tehran Grand Bazaar is the most important and main place for buying and selling goods in Iran, there are so many old buildings and restaurants inside it. It is recommended to visit this unique place after visiting Golestan Palace.

 

 

Oudlajan Neighborhood

Oudlajan is one of the old and original neighborhoods of Tehran, which was once one of the noble neighborhoods of the capital during the Qajar period. Although new Tehran the crowded and populous capital of Iran with its tall towers and buildings, passages, houses and new neighborhoods has taken on a different look from old Tehran, but there are also alleys and neighborhoods in the city that can be traced back to the capital’s past identity and reviewed the memories of those days. One of these amazing areas is called “Oudlajan” which was considered as one of the main districts of the capital during the Qajar era and even until the Pahlavi era and played an important role in the ups and downs of this city. There are so many old historical houses, shops, mosques, tea houses and even bathhouse in this area which all of them will capture your heart. If you are looking for a pleasant place among Tehran attractions, we recommend to not lose this lovely district after visiting Tehran Grand Bazar.

 

 

Saad Abad Palace

The last kings of Iran in the Qajar and Pahlavi periods lived in Saad Abad Palace. Visiting complex can provide you valuable information about the contemporary history of Iran. Saad Abad palaces and buildings are located in the middle of a lush garden which will make a pleasant excursion for you. Today, Saad Abad Palace is one of the most prominent places among Tehran attractions and domestic and foreign tourists visit this beautiful complex with historical, cultural and natural attractions during their trip to Tehran.

Saad Abad Palace is located in north of Tehran, Shemiran, where has a very pleasant weather. The main building was founded during the Qajar era and after Reza Khan Pahlavi became the king, the other buildings in the complex were built or renewed by the order of Reza Shah.

In the construction of the mansions and palaces of Saad Abad, a combination of European architecture and the original and traditional architecture of Iran can be seen, and the design of the buildings has been done by the most prominent domestic and foreign engineers. There are 18 buildings in Saad Abad Complex which some of them became museums. Sabz Palace (Green Palace) and Marmar Hall are the most famous ones among the buildings. If you are planning to visit northern part of Tehran, it is highly recommended to visit this palace.

Niavaran Palace in  northern part of Tehran

Niavaran Palace is one of the three famous historical palace complexes in Tehran. Today, different parts of Niavaran Palace have been turned into museums full of valuable historical objects. If you are interested in knowing the history and contemporary culture of Iran, be sure to visit Niavaran historical-cultural complex, especially the Niavaran private palace.

Niavaran Palace has a simple modern architecture. In this complex, beautiful beds, mirrors and embossed tiles can be seen. Exquisite paintings by famous local and foreign painters are other valuable objects in this complex. Valuable handmade carpets and precious dishes and decorative items are other spectacular objects in Niavaran Palace.

Niavaran Palace dates back to the Pahlavi era and before that period, Qajar kings used this garden as a summer mansion. After Fath Ali Shah Qajar, other Qajar kings also established their own palaces in Niavaran Garden. Mohammad Shah Qajar built a small building in Niavaran Garden and after that Nasser al-Din Shah Qajar ordered the construction of a mansion which he named Sahebgharanieh Palace. The last mansion built in this garden during the Qajar period was Ahmad Shahi mansion. By the order of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, the palace of Fath Ali Shah Qajar was destroyed and the palace of Niavaran was built. Initially, the private building of Niavaran Palace was designed to receive foreign guests; But after the construction was completed, it became the residence of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi’s family. Today,  Niavaran Garden consists of Niavaran Private Palace, Sahebgharanieh Palace and Hozkhaneh Museum, Ahmad Shahi Pavilion, Jahan nama Museum, private library, museum of private cars and garden of inscriptions.

 

 

Darband Area

Darband is a great area with a pleasant climate, where many people take refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy its stunning scenery and enjoy a delicious meal in its many restaurants; But this is not the whole story, and without the need to distance themselves from Tehran, they can go mountaineering and enjoy the scenic environment. Walking on the stone path of Darband and passing by various restaurants and vendors and eating delicious junk foods is what has made Darband doubly attractive.

Darband area is one of Tehran attractions in northern part of the city and it is recommended to go there after visiting northern palaces of Saad Abad Palace and Niavaran Palace. If you are looking for a place to rest, you only have to walk 10 minutes to reach the green areas with natural streams and a number of small waterfalls. Along this stream of water, there are platforms with carpets and pillows where you can enjoy tea, snacks and even Ghelyan. This is a beautiful and very relaxing place and a world away from the hustle and bustle of Tehran. Darband nights are also popular and many people choose this time period to visit it; Especially when all the cafes, restaurants and shops are full of light and increase the attractiveness of being in this area.

We, at Persia Top Tours are always with you to help you organize the best one-day excursions in Tehran. You can only contact us and let us know what you are exactly looking for.