The most beautiful cities of Isfahan province
Isfahan, on its own, is a complete destination. A city brimming with historical treasures that showcases the essence of authentic Iranian art in a magnificent display. But it’s not just Iranian art! Architecture, culture, traditions, religion, and everything you can imagine are brought to life in their finest form amidst the grand and breathtaking landmarks of this city.
Perhaps this is why many associate Iran with the splendid Imam Mosque or the captivating dome of Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. Whatever the reason, everyone agrees that Isfahan alone is half the world. Yet, if you venture a little beyond Isfahan, the vast expanse of Isfahan Province holds no shortage of wonders. Na’in, Niasar, Kashan, Natanz, Abyaneh, and numerous other towns and villages near Isfahan are home to a world of marvels and beauty, coming together to form a grand and majestic province.
No matter where you’re from, Isfahan invites you to explore its unparalleled charm!
Kashan
Kashan is one of the most beautiful cities in Isfahan province, located in central Iran. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and unique cultural heritage, Kashan is a popular destination for those interested in exploring Iran’s traditional art and architecture. The city is famous for its historic houses, which often feature intricate tile work, stucco decorations, and traditional Persian gardens.
One of Kashan’s most notable attractions is the Fin Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the Persian garden design with its serene fountains, beautiful greenery, and historical significance. The Fin Bathhouse, located within the garden, is also famous for its association with the assassination of Amir Kabir, the Iranian prime minister in the 19th century.
The Agha Bozorg Mosque and the Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse are other architectural gems in the city, known for their beautiful domes, elaborate tile work, and traditional Iranian bathhouse design. Kashan is also renowned for its historical houses, such as the Tabatabai House and Borujerdi House, which are excellent examples of Persian architecture with their courtyards, windcatchers, and fine decoration.
In addition to its historical attractions, Kashan is famous for its rosewater production. Every spring, the city hosts a rosewater distillation festival, where visitors can witness the traditional method of making rosewater and explore the surrounding rose gardens.
The city is also well known for its carpet weaving industry, producing beautiful Persian carpets that are highly regarded for their quality and craftsmanship. Visitors to Kashan can explore local markets, where traditional handicrafts, textiles, and carpets are sold.
Kashan’s climate is typically warm and dry, making it an ideal destination for visitors during the spring and autumn months. With its rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and traditional crafts, Kashan stands out as one of the most charming cities in Isfahan province.
Natanz, an Oasis in the Desert
Natanz is a familiar name for any history and nature lover. It is a green gem in the heart of the desert, hiding a world of history within itself, nestled at the foot of Mount Karkas. Among the city’s ancient trees, you must visit the Natanz Friday Mosque, with its unique prayer hall, dome, and minaret, which also houses a Sufi lodge and the tomb of Sheikh Abd al-Samad Natanz .
The multiple wonders of the historical district of Afushteh, surrounded by lush, ancient trees; the Saraban Park; the Dome of Bāz; the Zoroastrian fire temple; the village of Hanjan with its fortress, qanat, and historic gardens; the Sershak Mosque; the Qala-e Kohab caravanserai; the Mitin Abad Desert Eco-Camp; the Mir Mosque; the villages of Abyaneh and Deh Abad are among the many attractions of this historic garden city in Isfahan Province. Accommodation options in Natanz and its vicinity include the Qasr Jahan Hotel, the Toselian Eco-Lodge, Mitin Abad Desert Eco-Camp, the Viona Abyaneh Hotel, the Harpak Eco-Lodge, and the Ryan Recreation Area.
Na’in, the Jewel of the Desert
The idea of a city like Na’in existing in the vast desert plains might seem so unexpected that it has earned the title “Jewel of the Desert.” Na’in is one of the oldest cities in Iran, with a history spanning over 3,000 years. While in this historic city, you must visit the Friday Mosque, the historic Na’in Bazaar, the Narenj Fortress (or Narin Castle), the Mohammadieh neighborhood with the Ashurghah Castle, and the workshops of traditional babar weaving carved into the mountainside. Also worth seeing are the Rigara Watermill, the beautiful Pirnia House, the Desert Museum housed in its halls and rooms, the Fatemi House, Baba Abdullah Mosque, Musalla Garden, the Sefrou Fire Temple, and the historical caravanserais of Nistanak and Balabad. Na’in’s pottery and carpets, along with the ancient tradition of babar weaving, will ensure you leave this beautiful city with something special. The only accommodation in Na’in is the Jahan and Narges Hotels, where you can stay for a few nights.
Kuhpayeh, a City of History
Kuhpayeh is a small town located 65 kilometers from Isfahan. Historically known as a city of wisdom and intellect, it has a multi-hundred-year-old Friday Mosque dating back to the Seljuk period. Attractions in this small yet charming town include the Safavid-era Shah Abbas caravanserai, fully restored; the Talār Mosque, the Qadamgah Mosque, the beautiful village of Zafreh with its mosque and wooden pulpit surrounded by stunning nature, the ancient Kuhpayeh Bazaar, the brick mosque, and the tourist village of Mahan at the foot of Mount Marshan. If you plan to stay in Kuhpayeh, don’t miss spending a night at the 450-year-old Shah Abbas Caravanserai.
Aran and Bidgol, a Wedding in the Embrace of the Desert
Aran and Bidgol is one of the most desirable cities in Isfahan Province. This historic city, with its long and rich past, is full of ups and downs, and its historical neighborhoods and beautiful gardens are home to many shrines, mosques, traditional baths, and water reservoirs. Key attractions include the shrine of Imam Muhammad Halaal ibn Ali (AS), the historic Qazi complex with its water reservoir, mosque, and homes, the Naghshine Mosque, the Karshahi Fortress, the Sizan Castle, the Market Mosque, and the ancient region of Veigl.
If you venture a little beyond the city, you’ll find the magical Maranjab Desert with its thrilling desert activities and its stunning caravanserai, the Ykhap area, the Salt Lake with its wandering island, and further on, the underground city of Nooshabad or Oyi with its fortresses and ancient water reservoirs. For those interested in rally competitions or camel racing, this beautiful city hosts these events every autumn. The only accommodation in Aran and Bidgol is the Shaker Garden Eco-Lodge, set in an 8,000 square meter garden.
Daran, the Majesty of Nature
It may be surprising to learn that one of Iran’s coldest cities is located in Isfahan Province, but Daran, nestled in the Zagros mountains, is one of the coldest cities in Iran. Known historically as Partikan or Paritakan, Daran, the center of Fereidan County, is famous for its pleasant weather in spring and summer and its heavy snowfalls in winter, with snow sometimes reaching over a meter deep.
Around the city of Daran, several churches from the Qajar period, such as the Church of Saint George and the Church of Saint Nshan, can be found a few kilometers away. There are vast tulip fields near this city, and in addition to the lush foothills surrounding the city and the Pulasjan River flowing nearby, the Dalan Kooh protected area and the Daryacheh park are also close to Daran. The only accommodation in this beautiful city is the Darian Tourism Hotel.
Shahin Shahr
Shahin Shahr is one of the newly established cities in Isfahan province, located just under the big city of Isfahan. Originally, it was a collection of gardens and agricultural fields belonging to one of the famous local landlords. Later, the military chose the area to house the families of Iranian soldiers and American personnel. The presence of an aerospace factory near the area was one of the main reasons for establishing a residential town. The city, located on the busy route from Tehran to Isfahan, was named Shahin Shahr because of its resemblance to the shape of a falcon.
Shahin Shahr is one of the important industrial hubs in the country. The Morcheh Khort Castle in the village of Morcheh Khort, the Mother Shah Caravanserai (also known as the Shah Abbasi Caravanserai), Bank Park, and the Ethnological Museum are some of the city’s attractions. To stay in the city, you can visit the Atlas Hotel in Shahin Shahr, but if you’re interested in staying in a historic caravanserai, make your way to the Shah Abbasi Caravanserai near the city.
Fereydan
Fereydan is a county in Isfahan province, with Daran and Damaneh being among its cities. Throughout history, Fereydan has been known by various names, including Paretakan, Parkan, and Pritakan. Fereydan has always been one of the important and influential regions in ancient Iran. Some believe that the name Fereydan is derived from Fereydun in the story of Zahhak and Kaveh the Blacksmith, and the people who lived here were one of the tribes of the Medes.
Fereydan, which is the source of the Zayandeh Rud River, is considered one of the most beautiful areas in Isfahan province due to its location amidst the Zagros Mountains, Dalan Kooh peaks, the Pulasjan River, lush tulip fields, Afus springs, the Black Valley waterfall, pristine villages, and pleasant weather. Historically, Fereydan has been a fascinating blend of Georgian, Caucasian, Armenian, Azerbaijani, and Bakhtiari people. For accommodation in the Fereydan area, you can visit the Pulasjan Fereydan Eco-Lodge in the village of Mogan.
Niasar
Niasar is one of the oldest cities in Iran, located 20 kilometers from the city of Kashan. It is a lush and beautiful city known for its pleasant weather. Niasar is famous for its gardens and lush orchards. Among the important historical sites in Niasar is the Sassanian-era Four-i-Tab (also known as the Fire Temple), which reflects the ancient heritage of the region.
In addition to the Four-i-Tab, the Sassanian-era bathhouse and watermill, the historical garden palace and pavilion in the garden, the Ra’is Cave or Vis hole (entirely hand-carved), the Iskanderiyeh spring, and the famous Niasar waterfall are among the attractions in Isfahan. If you’re interested in the rosewater distillation ceremonies, you should visit Niasar and experience this traditional and fascinating ceremony at the city’s traditional workshops. The only accommodation option in Niasar is the Green Hotel, but if you’re interested in staying at eco-lodges, head to Kashan.
Semirom
Semirom is a beautiful city located in the western part of Isfahan province, nestled in the foothills of the Zagros Mountains. Known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, Semirom offers a peaceful and refreshing escape, especially during the hot summer months. The city is surrounded by lush forests, waterfalls, and rivers, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring the area’s diverse flora and fauna. Additionally, Semirom is home to several traditional villages, where travelers can experience authentic rural life and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals.
One of the key attractions in Semirom is its cool climate, which stands in contrast to the hotter temperatures of Isfahan city, particularly during summer. The city is also known for its scenic beauty, with stunning views of mountains and valleys, as well as its famous Persian gardens. Semirom is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area, including the Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province, which is rich in cultural heritage and known for its traditional cuisine and handicrafts. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat or an outdoor adventure, Semirom offers a perfect blend of nature and culture.
