where is tabriz ? | tabriz iran
Tabriz, located in the northwest of the country, is considered one of the tourism hubs of Iran. With its rich historical background and culture, this city hosts valuable artifacts. Additionally, due to its geographical location, it offers a diverse range of natural attractions. In 2018, Tabriz was introduced as the exemplary city of Islamic tourism worldwide. Throughout the year, this metropolis welcomes numerous domestic and international tourists. Join us in this article from Gulf City Pedia to become familiar with Tabriz, the city of firsts.
When is the best time to travel to Tabriz?
What are the places you can visit in Tabriz?
What are the souvenirs of Tabriz?
What are the local foods of Tabriz?
Where to stay in Tabriz?
What are the restaurants in Tabriz?
What are the customs and traditions of the people of Tabriz?
What is public transportation like in Tabriz?
Tabriz Travel Guide
Introduction to Tabriz
Tabriz is the capital of East Azerbaijan province, with a population of over 1,558,000 according to the 1395 census. The language spoken in Tabriz is Turkish, and the dialect spoken there is known as Azerbaijani Turkish, Azerbaijani, Azeri, and Azari.
Throughout history, Tabriz has been the center of attention for various governments and has been the capital many times. This city has been recognized as the political capital during the rule of various dynasties including the Atabegs, Khwarazmshahs, Ilkhanids, Chupanids, Aq Qoyunlu, Safavids, and Qajars. Tabriz was undoubtedly the most important city in Iran during the Ilkhanid period, at a time when Iran was considered one of the largest territories in the world. It is interesting to note that the Constitutional Movement also began in Tabriz, and later it became the first capital of the Islamic world.
Throughout different periods, this city has acquired various titles, among the most important of which is the “city without beggars.” This is because the people of Tabriz and Azerbaijan are industrious and hardworking individuals who do not favor begging as a means of income, hence Tabriz is called the city without beggars. Another title for Tabriz is “Iran’s Chocolate City,” which is attributed to its chocolate exports to 60 countries worldwide.
Additionally, since 2015, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation has initiated a project to introduce exemplary tourist cities in Islamic countries, as part of which Tabriz was introduced as the exemplary city of Islamic tourism in 2018, and since then, the phrase “Tabriz 2018” can be seen throughout the city.
Tabriz Code: 041
When is the best time to travel to Tabriz?
Summers in Tabriz are very pleasant and cool, but its winters are truly cold and harsh, lasting from Aban to Esfand (October/November to February/March). The cold of winter peaks in the months of Azar, Dey, and Bahman (November, December, and January), continuing until late Esfand (February/March). Therefore, the best time to travel to Tabriz is from early Tir to early Shahrivar (late June to late August), when the average temperature reaches 24 degrees Celsius. In fact, the busiest time to travel to Tabriz is during the summer months because, compared to northern cities of the country, it has a much more pleasant and cooler climate. However, if you are fond of Liqvan cheese, it is better to travel to Tabriz in mid-Mehr (early October) and have a one-day trip to the village of Liqvan.
Places to See in Tabriz
Tabriz is one of the most beautiful cities in Iran, offering a plethora of historical, natural, and cultural attractions. These attractions have turned Tabriz into a tourism hub in northwest Iran.
Historical and Cultural Attractions in Tabriz
The city of Tabriz boasts a long and tumultuous history, with the earliest discovered signs of ancient civilization dating back 1500 years before Christ.
The Tabriz Traditional Bazaar, the beating heart of Tabriz’s attractions, was registered as the first bazaar in the world on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1389. The Blue Mosque, dubbed the “Turquoise of Islam,” and the Sahib al-Amr Mosque are among the oldest mosques in Tabriz.
Other historical landmarks in this metropolis include the Arg of Tabriz (Tabriz Citadel), the Municipality Palace, the Constitutional House, the Church of Saint Mary, and the historic Noubār Bathhouse. Among these, the El-Gölü or Shah-Gölü (Royal Garden) cannot be overlooked, with its antiquity and beauty making it one of the city’s main symbols.
Most of Tabriz’s old neighborhoods such as Docheh, Noubār, Amir Khiz, are now situated in the city center, offering delightful experiences for visitors. Additionally, spending evenings wandering and visiting Tabriz’s attractions at night can be enchanting.
Natural Attractions in Tabriz
The Liqvan Valley, the colorful mountains of Aladaghlar (Aladagh Mountains), Tabriz Grand Park, the tourist-recreational-resort village of Simurgh (Amend Dam), etc., proudly showcase themselves among Tabriz’s natural attractions, which should be included in tourists’ itineraries. Moreover, spending time in Tabriz’s parks, including the famous ones like Ainali Forest Park, Tabriz Grand Park, and El-Gölü Park, can be quite refreshing.
If you’re interested in day trips, don’t miss out on the nearby attractions of Tabriz. Every season offers appealing destinations for short trips near this city, which you can plan for accordingly.
Shopping Centers in Tabriz
The Park Commercial and Recreational Center, Atlas Shopping Center, Javaher Shopping Center, Pardis Commercial Complex, Crystal Commercial Tower, Setareh Baran, Shahr Tower, Royal, Tarbiat Pedestrian Way, Shahriar Pedestrian Way, and the Old Bazaar of Tabriz are excellent options for shopping in Tabriz.
Tabriz Souvenirs
Tabriz Carpets, which have been globally registered, are among the finest carpets in Iran and have international renown. Additionally, due to the prevalence of animal husbandry in East Azerbaijan province, Tabriz Leather is also considered a top-notch souvenir of this city. Pottery, Needlework, Kilim Weaving, Wood Carving, and Pen Making are other handicrafts of Tabriz that serve as attractive souvenirs for tourists.Tabriz souvenirs are a blend of art in the hands of the people of this land.
Tabriz sweets also have a great reputation, including Qarabieh and Noqat. Nuts, Aris, Pashmak (Iranian cotton candy), Basloq, and dried fruits are also among the traditional and delicious snacks that you can purchase as souvenirs from Tabriz.
Local Foods of Tabriz
Tabrizi cooks are renowned for their delicious cuisine and always welcome their guests with incredibly tasty local dishes. Among these dishes, Tabrizi meatballs (Kofteh Tabrizi) take the lead, especially since this dish has been nationally registered as an intangible heritage.
Dolma Barg-e Mo (Yaprax Dolması), various types of Kuku such as Kuku-e Lubia Sabz (Green Bean Kuku), Carrot Stew, Dovymaj, Dizi Sangi (Stone Dizi), and Torsh-e Tareh (Sour Tareh Soup) are also among the other traditional Tabrizi foods that you shouldn’t miss tasting during your trip to this region. Various types of Ash such as Ash-e Miveh (Fruit Ash) and Ash-e Shile Adas (Lentil Ash) are also highly popular and worth trying.
Where to Stay in Tabriz?
It’s interesting to know that the hotel industry in Tabriz dates back over a century, and today, many hotels operate in this city. In addition to staying in hotels, tourists can experience more economical accommodations by renting suites, houses, and apartments. Eco-lodges are also another popular option for accommodation, catering to their own special fans. Bahar Traditional Residence is located near the old bazaar of Tabriz, and Dariush Kendovan Eco-lodge near the village of Kendovan can be an excellent choice for experiencing rural life and escaping the hustle and bustle of the city.
Below are some of the hotels in Tabriz:
Luxury Hotels in Tabriz: Pars El-Gölü Hotel, Laleh Park Hotel, Shahriar Hotel, etc.
Mid-range Hotels in Tabriz: Farid Hotel, Ahrab Hotel, Saray Hotel, etc.
Economy Hotels in Tabriz: Iran Hotel, Sahand Hotel, Ziba Apartment Hotel, etc.
Restaurants in Tabriz
There are many restaurants in Tabriz offering a variety of Iranian and international cuisines. The extensive diversity of these restaurants makes it difficult for tourists to choose. If you head towards the highland region of Sardroud from Tabriz, you’ll come across many traditional restaurants and gardens, among which one of the best is Ana Traditional Restaurant and Garden.
Haj Ali Tabriz Restaurant, one of the oldest restaurants in the Tabriz Bazaar; Gazmakh Traditional Restaurant, which serves all its dishes with Tadeeg; Haj Majid Restaurant; Reyhan Kebab House; Barkeh Traditional Restaurant and Garden; Mehdi Hila Fast Food, and others are among the restaurants and cafes in Tabriz that you can visit during your trip.
Customs and Traditions of Tabriz People
Throughout the year, Tabriz hosts various festivals, among which the Lighvan Cheese Festival stands out, held in May in the village of Lighvan, 44 kilometers southwest of Tabriz. Visiting the Gol Mohammadi Ganjeh Festival, held in June in the village of Ganjeh, and the Tabriz Snowman Festival in December in El-Goli Park will also be delightful experiences.
Nowruz celebration, the Persian New Year, has its special customs in East Azerbaijan and especially Tabriz. One of these customs is “Tekmeh Gardani.” “Tekmeh” means a male goat symbolizing the arrival of spring, and adding “Meem” to it creates “Tekmeh,” meaning “my male goat.” This wooden doll, adorned with colorful fabric and bells or coins, is placed on a square or circular surface, and people rotate it while reciting some verses to herald the arrival of spring.
Tabriz has a long history of religious activities, one of which is holding various ceremonies during the month of Muharram. The famous “Ouch Timcheh Lor,” also known as “Haj Sheikh Timcheh,” in Tabriz Bazaar hosts mourning rituals and recitations of elegies during the first thirteen days of Muharram and Arbaeen, a tradition dating back over 155 years according to Timcheh merchants.
In general, the people of East Azerbaijan, particularly in Tabriz, prepare themselves for Ramadan starting from the middle of the month of Sha’ban. People in this region engage in cleaning and refreshing their homes days before the blessed month of Ramadan. They also prepare for the advent of this month, locally known as “Qabaqlama.” Additionally, as Ramadan approaches, the bride’s family sends gifts to the newlywed groom, including clothes, various scarves, as well as fruits and sweets.
Public Transportation in Tabriz
If you intend to use public transportation during your trip to Tabriz, taxis, buses, and metro are the options available for public transportation in the city. Line taxis, door-to-door taxis, and internet-based ride-hailing services like Snapp operate in the city.
Moreover, buses and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems are available throughout the city for commuting passengers. Payment on buses is made electronically.
Tabriz Metro also operates active stations at various locations, and you can use it by purchasing a metro ticket (single or multi-trip) from the stations.
Tabriz Travel Guide
Air Travel to Tabriz
Despite having Tabriz International Airport in the city, numerous flights operate between various cities in Iran and Tabriz. The Tehran to Tabriz flight route is one of the busiest air routes in the country, with a flight duration of approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. From many cities, it is possible to travel to Tabriz by air, allowing you to experience a comfortable and hassle-free journey to this beautiful city.
Arrival at Tabriz Airport
If you are considering traveling to Tabriz by private car, starting from Tehran, your journey will begin on the Tehran-Karaj highway. Continuing your journey, you will encounter cities such as Qazvin and Zanjan, and if you take the Zanjan-Tabriz highway, you will arrive in Tabriz in about two to three hours. The distance from Tehran to Tabriz is approximately 630 kilometers, and traveling via this route, which is the most direct and shortest, takes approximately six to seven hours.
If you want to travel by land from a city like Sanandaj in the west of the country to Tabriz, you can enter Tabriz after passing through cities such as Saqqez, Bukan, Miandoab, Oshnavieh, and Azarshahr, covering a distance of 450 kilometers. For a journey from the south of the country and a city like Bandar Abbas to Tabriz, you must travel the 1815-kilometer-long Sirjan-Bandar Abbas route, passing through cities such as Babak, Yazd, Nayin, Kashan, Qom, Zanjan, and Tabriz within approximately 20 hours. Similarly, if you wish to visit Tabriz from the east of the country and a city like Birjand, you can take the Birjand-Kashmar-Sabzevar-Shahrud-Tehran-Zanjan route, covering a distance of 1756 kilometers to reach Tabriz.
Considering that Tabriz Central Terminal is the largest passenger terminal in northwest Iran, you can easily travel to Tabriz by bus from all major cities in the country. If you reside in Tehran and plan to experience traveling to Tabriz by bus, the buses are located at the West, South, and Beyaghi terminals. With a few short stops for rest and lunch, you will arrive in Tabriz after about eight hours.
Tabriz Terminal
Traveling to Tabriz by train is also an option for tourists to enjoy a pleasant rail journey to the city. To travel from Tehran to Tabriz, trains on this route pass through cities such as Karaj, Qazvin, Zanjan, Miyaneh, and Maragheh. The journey from Tehran to Tabriz usually takes about seven to eight hours. If you plan to travel from other major cities to Tabriz, inquire about the availability of direct trains to Tabriz from your city’s railway station, as, for example, there is no direct train from Bandar Abbas to Tabriz, and you must come to Tehran by train from Bandar Abbas and then take the train from Tehran to Tabriz.
