Photo credit: Ann Schneider

History and Heritage from the Achaemenids to the Ayatollah

If you’re unfamiliar with the history and culture of Iran (known prior to 1935 as Persia), prepare to be blown away. The country was home to a powerful, sophisticated ancient empire, and it has the ruins to prove it: vast, breathtaking Persepolis is the star attraction, but there are scores of other wonders spread across the landscape. From ancient times through to the present day, Persians have produced stunning architecture—great mosques and palaces, adorned with intricate mosaics and topped by brilliant minarets and domes. The same artistic vision and innovative engineering show through in gorgeous Persian gardens, and you may feel the similar sense of wonder as you stroll through Iran’s centuries-old bazaars (often architectural feats themselves) brimming with splendid crafts.

Why travel to Iran with MIR

Our expert travel planners care deeply about the cross-cultural diplomacy at the heart of visiting a country like Iran. On the ground, MIR’s seasoned guides bring the destination to life by telling the stories behind the treasures. They’re masters at demystifying the Iranian travel experience and helping you get to know the warmth and generosity of the country’s people. Let us take you there.

  • 35 years of travel experience
  • Twice named one of National Geographic Adventure’s “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth”
  • Personalized travel planning from start to finish
  • On-the-ground support
  • Guides and tour managers that clients rave about
  • Quality you can trust
Read More

Our Trips

Showing 5 results

Create Your Dream Journey
Chat with one of our destination specialists by email or by phone at 1-800-424-7289 to start planning your travels today.
Photo credit: Richard Fejfar
Photo credit: Ann Schneider
Photo credit: Patricia Harris
Photo credit: Jessica Clark
Photo credit: Farzeneh Khademi
+ 5
  • Photo credit: Richard Fejfar Richard Fejfar
  • Photo credit: Ann Schneider Ann Schneider
  • Photo credit: Patricia Harris Patricia Harris
  • Photo credit: Jessica Clark Jessica Clark
  • Photo credit: Farzeneh Khademi Farzeneh Khademi
  • Photo credit: Gary LeClair Gary LeClair
  • Photo credit: Peter Guttman Peter Guttman
  • Photo credit: Ann Schneider Ann Schneider
  • Photo credit: Devin Connolly Devin Connolly
  • Photo credit: Richard Fejfar Richard Fejfar

Traveler Reviews

  • "I had a great trip and VERY safe, I do not understand why people do not go [to Iran], it was most interesting. We had a fantastic tour guide, who was extremely knowledgeable. The people were great, they wanted to speak English with us and were always very nice."

    F. Hayet

    San Rafael, CA

  • "Without hesitation I would recommend anyone to visit Iran, is a fascinating country with a very rich history and much natural beauty, but the greatest wealth is its people, without a doubt, the friendliest and most hospitable people in the world."

    Couple

    Traveled in March 2023

    Close close