Visit Mashhad

Visit Isfahan, a historic city in central Iran. Explore Naqsh-e Jahan Square (a UNESCO World Heritage site with Shah Mosque, Ali Qapu Palace, and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque), stroll across the Si-o-se-pol bridge (a 33-arch Safavid-era bridge over the Zayandeh River), and admire the intricate tilework at the Jameh Mosque of Isfahan (one of Iran's oldest mosques dating back to the 8th century).

Visit Shiraz, the cultural capital of Iran. Explore the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque) with its stunning stained-glass windows and morning light displays, wander through the historic Eram Garden (Persian garden with cypress trees and pavilions), see the tomb of Hafez (14th-century poet in a tranquil garden setting), and sample local dishes like kalam polo (cabbage rice) and faloodeh (rosewater sorbet).

Ancient desert city of windcatchers.

The largest covered bazaar in the world, a Blue Mosque and the carpet-weaving capital of Persia.

Rosewater distilleries, the Fin garden and merchant houses with wind towers on the desert edge.

A bazaar city on the edge of the Lut desert, with the Ganjali Khan bathhouse and the Rayen citadel nearby.

The world's largest car-free old city.

Ancient Islamic city of 82 mosques, where hyenas are fed by hand at night.