Ways to Travel to Hamedan: From Tehran and Other Major Cities in Iran
Hamedan, with its rich history, numerous historical and natural attractions, and mild climate, is one of Iran’s most popular travel destinations. If you plan to visit Hamedan, knowing the available travel options from Tehran and other major cities is very important. Fortunately, due to its geographical location, Hamedan is accessible via several routes, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Below, we break down the different ways to travel to Hamedan.
1. Traveling to Hamedan by Bus
Advantages of Traveling by Bus:
Affordable: Compared to trains and planes, buses are cheaper, making them a good option for budget-conscious travelers.
Access to Intercity Routes: Most major Iranian cities, including Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, and Tabriz, have direct bus routes to Hamedan.
Routes and Travel Times:
Tehran to Hamedan: About 3–4 hours, depending on the bus type and road conditions.
Isfahan to Hamedan: About 6–7 hours.
Shiraz to Hamedan: About 10–11 hours.
Important Tips:
VIP buses with comfortable seats and extra amenities are ideal for long journeys.
Bus tickets can be purchased online through reputable websites or at bus terminals.
2. Traveling to Hamedan by Train
Advantages of Traveling by Train:
Comfort and Safety: Trains offer more space and make long journeys more comfortable.
Scenic Views: Rail routes allow you to enjoy Iran’s natural landscapes.
Online Booking: Train tickets can be easily booked online, with options to choose specific seats or compartments.
Routes and Travel Times:
Tehran to Hamedan: About 4–5 hours, with trains departing in the morning and evening.
Isfahan to Hamedan: About 9 hours.
Important Tips:
Train types include Raja, Fadak, and compartment trains, each offering different facilities and prices.
For family travel, 4-person compartments are more comfortable and private.
3. Traveling to Hamedan by Plane
Advantages of Traveling by Plane:
High Speed: The fastest option, ideal for travelers with limited time.
Airport Services: Domestic flights to Hamedan operate from Hamedan International Airport, offering good amenities.
Routes and Travel Times:
Tehran to Hamedan: Direct flights take about 1 hour.
Shiraz, Mashhad, and Isfahan: Flights usually have stops or are seasonal, taking around 2–3 hours.
Important Tips:
Airfare varies depending on the season and airline.
Booking in advance can reduce costs.
The Best Places to Buy Local Souvenirs in Hamedan: Pottery, Leather, and Traditional Sweets
4. Traveling to Hamedan by Car
Advantages of Traveling by Car:
High Flexibility: You can stop along the way and explore attractions en route.
Group Travel: Ideal for families or friends who prefer a more comfortable and private journey.
Routes and Important Tips:
The distance from Tehran to Hamedan is about 300 km, taking 3–4 hours by car.
The recommended route is via the Hamedan-Tehran highway, which is safe and fast.
Before traveling, ensure road conditions and fuel availability are checked.
Summary
With its historical, natural, and cultural attractions, Hamedan is a popular destination for both short and long trips. Choosing the right mode of transportation depends on several factors: budget, time, comfort, and group size. If you want to save money, the bus is the best option. If comfort and safety are your priority, the train is a suitable choice. For those who value speed, flying is the fastest option. Traveling by car is ideal for those who prefer to have control over their route and schedule.
By selecting the most suitable travel method, you can enjoy a memorable experience in Hamedan.
Practical Travel Guide to Hamedan for Foreign Tourists
If you are outside Iran and planning to travel to Hamedan, it is best to plan ahead to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip. This guide includes tips on ticket purchase, accommodation booking, and choosing the mode of transportation.
- 1. Obtaining a Visa and Travel Insurance
Iranian Visa
Most foreign tourists need a visa to enter Iran.
Ways to get a visa:
Through the Iranian embassy or consulate in your country
Online visa (E-Visa): iran-visa.com
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended, especially for visa purposes.
It should cover medical expenses and possible accidents during your stay in Iran. - 2. Arrival in Iran and Reaching Tehran
Most international flights land at Tehran (Imam Khomeini International Airport).
From Tehran, you can travel to Hamedan by train, bus, domestic flight, or rental car. - 3. Traveling from Tehran to Hamedan
Option 1: Domestic Flight
Iranian airlines: Iran Air, Taban, Mahan
Flight time: approximately 1 hour
Online booking:
IranAir.com
MahanAir.com
Option 2: Train
Tehran–Hamedan route: about 4 to 5 hours
Tickets can be booked via:
RAJA.ir
Fadak.ir
Types of trains: compartment, comfortable seats, VIP
Option 3: Bus
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Major terminals:
Tehran South Terminal (Hamedan routes)
Online booking: Terminali.com
Option 4: Rental Car
Distance: about 300 km; travel time: 3–4 hours
Notes: Driving conditions in Iran may differ; using GPS and offline maps is recommended. - 4. Traveling from Other Major Iranian Cities
Isfahan to Hamedan: Bus 6–7 hours, Train 9 hours, Flight about 2 hours
Shiraz to Hamedan: Bus 10–11 hours, Flight with stopovers about 3 hours
Mashhad to Hamedan: Domestic flight with stopovers or long train journey
Note: Most routes to Hamedan may require booking through local agencies or friends in Iran if you do not have an Iranian bank card. - 5. Booking Hotels in Hamedan
International booking platforms:
Booking.com
Agoda.com
Airbnb.com
Tip: Early booking is recommended, especially during holidays or peak tourist seasons. - 6. Useful Tips for Foreign Tourists
Language: Most people speak Persian; having maps and addresses written in Persian is helpful.
Payments: International bank cards usually do not work in Iran; cash in Iranian Rial or help from a local friend is essential.
Local transport: Using apps like Snapp may require an Iranian phone number.
Attractions: Key destinations in Hamedan include Ali Sadr Cave, Hegmataneh Hill, Baba Taher Mausoleum, and Alvand Mountain.
Frequently Asked Questions for International Travelers Visiting Hamedan
1. Can I buy bus or train tickets to Hamedan online from outside Iran?
Most Iranian websites for online ticket purchases require an Iranian bank card. If you don’t have one:
You can ask a friend or a travel agency in Iran to buy the ticket for you.
Some hotels and travel agencies offer ticket reservation services.
2. Are there direct flights from outside Iran to Hamedan?
No. Hamedan has an international airport, but direct international flights are very limited or seasonal. Usually, you need to take a domestic flight from Tehran or other major Iranian cities (like Isfahan or Mashhad) to reach Hamedan.
3. What is the best route from Tehran to Hamedan?
By plane: The fastest option (about 1 hour).
By train or bus: Suitable if you want a local experience and enjoy the scenery.
By rental car: Offers high flexibility with the option to stop along the way.
4. Do I need a visa to travel to Iran?
Yes, most international travelers need a visa to enter Iran. You can obtain a visa through:
The Iranian embassy or consulate in your country.
Online visa (E-Visa) applications.
5. What should I know about public transportation?
Buses and trains are generally safe and comfortable for foreign travelers, though Persian is the main language used.
It’s advisable to check schedules and plan your route in advance.
For taxis or rideshare apps like Snapp, some drivers may not speak English, so having the address in Persian or an offline map is helpful.
6. Can I book hotels and tours before arriving in Hamedan?
Yes, international booking platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, and Airbnb offer reservations for Hamedan.
Some local travel agencies also provide day tours or multi-day tours to Hamedan’s attractions for foreign tourists.
7. What is the best season to visit Hamedan?
Spring and Autumn: Mild weather, ideal for sightseeing.
Summer: Warm but still bearable.
Winter: Cold with possible snowfall, suitable for those interested in winter sports.
8. Is travel insurance mandatory for foreign visitors?
For certain visas, travel health insurance may be required.
Even if not mandatory, it is recommended to have insurance to cover potential medical expenses in Iran.
