Tehran Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Visa & Entry
Do I need a visa? Most nationalities need one. Citizens of Turkey, Armenia, and several others have visa-free entry.
Can I get a Visa on Arrival (VOA)? Yes, at IKA airport for many nationalities, but it is safer to apply for an e-visa beforehand.
Do Americans need a guide? Yes, US, UK, and Canadian citizens must be part of a licensed tour with a guide.
Is the e-visa process fast? Usually, it takes 5-10 business days, but results can be unpredictable.
Will an Iranian stamp in my passport cause trouble? Iran typically provides a separate paper visa or digital entry to avoid stamping your physical passport.
Do I need travel insurance? Yes, it is mandatory. You can buy it at the airport if your home policy doesn’t cover Iran.
Can I visit if I have an Israeli stamp? Officially, you may be denied entry if you have visited Israel in the last 6-12 months.
What is IKA? Imam Khomeini International Airport, the main international gateway located about an hour from the city.
How much is the visa fee? It varies by nationality, typically between €40 and €150.
Do I need a return ticket? It is highly recommended to have proof of onward travel.
Money & Sanctions
Do Visa or Mastercard work? No, international cards do not work due to sanctions.
Should I bring cash? Yes, bring crisp USD or Euros to exchange locally.
What is a “Tourist Card”? Companies like MahCard or Daric offer prepaid debit cards you can load with cash upon arrival.
What is the difference between Rial and Toman? Rial is the official currency, but Tomans (1 Toman = 10 Rials) is what everyone uses in conversation.
Where should I exchange money? Use “Sarrafi” (exchange shops) in the city rather than banks for much better rates.
Is there a black market rate? Yes, the “free market” rate is significantly higher than the government’s official rate.
Can I use ATMs? Only with an Iranian bank card or a specialized Tourist Card.
How much cash should I bring? For a mid-range traveler, $50–$70 per day is usually plenty.
Are things cheap? For those with USD/Euros, Tehran is very affordable for food and transport.
Can I pay in Dollars at shops? Rarely. Most prefer Rials/Tomans.
Safety & Ethics
Is Tehran safe? Generally, yes. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare.
What about solo female travel? It is common and considered safe, though you will attract curiosity.
Are there “morality police”? They exist, but their presence fluctuates. Tourists are usually given more leeway.
Can I take photos of everything? Avoid military buildings, police, and government offices. Look for “no photography” signs.
Is it safe to walk at night? Yes, especially in popular areas like Darband or Tajrish.
What is “Taarof”? A complex system of etiquette where people may offer things for free out of politeness. You should insist on paying.
Can I talk about politics? It is best to avoid criticizing the government or religion in public.
Is the water safe to drink? Yes, tap water in Tehran is generally safe, though many prefer bottled water.
What should I do in an emergency? Dial 110 for police or 115 for an ambulance.
Is there a risk of being detained? For most tourists, no. The risk is higher for dual nationals or those involved in political activism.
Dress Code (Hijab & Style)
Is the hijab mandatory? Yes, for all women in public. A loose headscarf is usually sufficient.
Can I wear short sleeves? Men can wear t-shirts. Women should keep arms covered to the elbow or wrist.
Can men wear shorts? No, men should wear long trousers in public.
What is a “Manteau”? A light overcoat women wear to cover their body shape.
Are sandals okay? Yes, for both men and women.
Do I need to wear a hijab the moment I land? Yes, as soon as you exit the plane.
Can I wear bright colors? Absolutely. Tehranis are very fashionable.
How strict is the dress code in North Tehran? Much more relaxed than in the South or in religious cities like Qom.
Do I need a Chador? Only for entering certain holy shrines; they are usually provided at the entrance.
What happens if my scarf falls off? Just put it back on. It happens to locals too.
Getting Around
Is there Uber in Tehran? No, but the local equivalent is “Snapp” or “Tap30.”
Is the Metro good? Yes, it is clean, fast, and very cheap.
Are there women-only carriages? Yes, at the ends of the trains, though women can also sit in the mixed sections.
How bad is Tehran traffic? Infamous. It is some of the worst in the world.
What is a “Darbast”? A private taxi where you pay for the whole car.
What is a “Shared Taxi”? Taxis that run set routes and pick up multiple passengers.
Can I walk between sights? Tehran is massive and hilly; walking is only feasible within specific neighborhoods.
How do I get to the city from IKA? Snapp is the easiest and cheapest way ($5-$10).
Is there a train to other cities? Yes, the Tehran Railway Station connects to Isfahan, Mashhad, and Shiraz.
Are domestic flights safe? They are common and cheap, though the fleet is older due to sanctions.
Internet & Tech
Is the internet censored? Yes. Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and many news sites are blocked.
Do I need a VPN? Yes, absolutely. Download several before you arrive.
Does WhatsApp work? It is often restricted; many locals use Telegram (with VPN) or local apps.
Can I buy a local SIM card? Yes, Irancell is popular. You can get one at IKA airport.
Is public Wi-Fi common? In cafes and hotels, yes, but it’s often slow.
Does Google Maps work? Yes, but “Neshan” or “Balad” are better for local traffic and routing.
Can I use my home SIM? Roaming is rare and very expensive for Western carriers.
Is electricity 220V? Yes, using European-style two-pin plugs.
Do I need to register my phone? If staying longer than 30 days, you must register your IMEI and pay a tax.
Is there 5G? 4G/LTE is common in Tehran; 5G is limited.
Sightseeing
What is the “must-see” palace? Golestan Palace is a UNESCO site and a top priority.
Is the Treasury of National Jewels open? It has irregular hours (usually Sat–Tue afternoons). Check before going.
What is the Tabiat Bridge? A famous modern pedestrian bridge designed by a female architect; great for sunset.
Is the Azadi Tower worth it? Yes, it’s the iconic symbol of Tehran.
What is the “US Den of Espionage”? The former US Embassy, now a museum with anti-American murals.
Where is the Grand Bazaar? In the south of the city. It’s closed on Fridays.
Is Darband good for hiking? It’s a steep walk with many restaurants; very popular on weekends.
What is Tochal? A mountain accessible by telecabin (cable car) for skiing or views.
Are museums closed on Mondays? Most are, but check specific sites as many close on Sundays instead.
Can I visit the Milad Tower? Yes, it’s the 6th tallest tower in the world and offers great views.
Food & Drink
What is the national dish? Chelow Kabab (rice with grilled meat).
Can I find vegetarian food? Yes, but it’s harder. Look for Mirza Ghasemi (eggplant) or Kashke Bademjan.
Is alcohol legal? No, it is strictly prohibited.
What is “Doogh”? A savory, minty yogurt drink that is very popular.
What are “Coffee Shops” like? Tehran has a massive, modern specialty coffee culture.
Where is the best street food? Si-e Tir Street is famous for its night food trucks.
Is tea a big deal? Yes, “Chai” is the social lubricant of Iran.
What is “Dizi”? A traditional lamb and chickpea stew served in a stone pot.
Are restaurants expensive? Most meals cost between $3 and $10.
Is tipping expected? Not mandatory, but small tips (10%) are appreciated in nice restaurants.
Accommodation
Can I book on Booking.com? No. Use sites like 1stQuest or TapPersia, or contact hotels directly.
Are there hostels? Yes, Tehran has several high-quality boutique hostels.
Where should I stay? North Tehran (Velenjak, Tajrish) is cooler and modern; Central Tehran is better for sightseeing.
Can unmarried couples share a room? Foreigners are generally not asked for marriage certificates.
Do hotels have Western toilets? Yes, almost all hotels do.
Is breakfast included? Usually, yes—expect flatbread, feta, cucumbers, and eggs.
Is Airbnb available? Not officially, but local sites like “Jajiga” offer similar homestays.
What is a “Traditional Hotel”? An old house converted into a hotel (more common in Kashan/Yazd than Tehran).
Are hotels safe for valuables? Yes, but use the safe for your passport and cash.
Is it noisy? Central Tehran hotels can be loud due to traffic; ask for a room not facing the street.
Culture & Language
Do people speak English? Many young people in Tehran speak excellent English.
How do I say thank you? “Mersi” (like French) or “Mamnoon.”
What is the weekend? Thursday and Friday. Saturday is the start of the work week.
Is Nowruz a good time to visit? It’s the Persian New Year (late March). Tehran is empty and quiet, but many things are closed.
How should I greet people? A polite nod or “Salam.” Avoid shaking hands with the opposite sex unless they initiate.
Are Iranians friendly? They are famous for being some of the most hospitable people in the world.
Is it okay to wear a tie? It is rare but acceptable for formal business.
Can I smoke in public? It is common, though many indoor places now prohibit it.
What is the most useful Persian phrase? “Bebakhshid” (Excuse me / Sorry).
Will I be followed by the government? Generally, no. Most tourists are left completely alone to explore.