How to Get Around Iran

Getting in. Imam Khomeini International near Tehran handles most international flights, with Mashhad, Shiraz and Isfahan also served. Note that entry requirements differ sharply by nationality — some passports require a guided tour or an approved itinerary, and an Israeli stamp is an absolute bar.

Domestic flights are cheap and the sensible way to cross a country this size. The fleet is old because of sanctions on aircraft parts, which is worth knowing.

Trains are comfortable and good value, including overnight sleepers between Tehran and Mashhad, Yazd, Kerman and Tabriz. The Trans-Iranian Railway itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Buses are excellent: frequent, cheap and comfortable, with VIP services on the main routes, and they reach everywhere.

In cities. Tehran has a large metro, and Snapp, the local ride-hailing app, works everywhere and removes any need to negotiate a fare. Shared taxis running fixed routes are the local habit.