Saed News: Isfahan, due to its historical and cultural monuments, is known as "Half of the World" and the cultural capital of Iran. It is interesting to know that the attractions around Isfahan are just as remarkable as the ones in the city itself.
According to the tourism service of Saad News, Isfahan is a semi-desert city in central Iran, famous for its extraordinary historical sites and many captivating attractions. It's hard to talk about the large and famous cities of Iran without mentioning Isfahan. However, it's interesting to note that the surrounding areas of Isfahan also have many historical and natural attractions that rival the city itself. These areas are home to various fascinating historical sites and natural wonders, which we will introduce in this article.
As mentioned, Isfahan has a semi-desert climate, yet it is located at the foot of the Zagros Mountains and next to the Zayanderud river, which originates from these mountains and eventually flows into the Gavkhouni swamp. Zayanderud is the largest river in the central plateau of Iran, passing through the city. On the other hand, the Najvan Forest, a pleasant area near this river, is located around the city. These climatic conditions have led to the presence of diverse natural attractions such as Kola Qazi Mountain, Safa Mountain, and several forests and villages around Isfahan.
There are numerous attractions near Isfahan, each with its own unique beauty. Some are historical, while others are natural, and some are ideal for a day trip or camping. Overall, some of these attractions are more famous and popular than others.
Safa Mountain is located in the southern part of Isfahan in the Zagros mountain range. This 2,257-meter-high peak is known as the "roof of Isfahan" and is home to many natural attractions, including caves and springs. The view of this mountain is visible from the city of Isfahan, and visitors can explore it by cable car or hiking trails. There is a historical fort at the summit, and from the top, one can see the Thousand Valleys with red soil, as well as Shah Kooh and Delijan.
Best time to visit: Spring and Fall
Access: Isfahan Province, Isfahan, Shaheed Safa Boulevard
Distance from Isfahan: 9 km (20-minute drive)
Things to bring: Appropriate clothing and shoes for hiking
The two-story qanat of Mon, located in Ardestan, is one of the most unique attractions near Isfahan. This qanat is the only two-story qanat in the world, dating back 800 years. It is both a national and UNESCO-listed site and has an astonishing engineering design, with the lower level’s water being warmer and the upper level’s water sweeter, lighter, and cooler. The two levels' waters do not mix.
Best time to visit: Winter
Access: Isfahan Province, Ardestan, Shahid Faghih Street, opposite the Registration Office, Mon's Two-Story Qanat
Distance from Isfahan: 134 km (1 hour 45-minute drive)
Things to bring: Warm clothing, appropriate shoes
Zayandeh Rud Recreational Village is an attraction located in Chadegan. This tourist center is situated near the Chadegan Dam and the lake behind it. The area features 245 hectares of green space, offering a breathtaking view and various recreational facilities such as an equestrian club, boating dock, sports fields, shopping centers, restaurants, traditional teahouses, and a swimming pool. It is perfect for a one-day trip around Isfahan.
Best time to visit: Spring and Summer
Access: Isfahan, Chadegan, Zayandeh Rud Lake Recreational Village
Distance from Isfahan: 130 km (1 hour 50-minute drive)
Things to bring: Picnic essentials, comfortable clothing and shoes
4. The Tulip Desert of Golestan Kooh in Khansar
The Tulip Desert of Golestan Kooh in Khansar is located in the central desert of Iran, near the city of Khansar, in a mountainous region called Golestan Kooh. This stunning and dreamlike area is home to attractions such as the Khansar tulip desert, abundant springs, and various medicinal plants like thistle, marjoram, thyme, wild garlic, and onions, which attract nature enthusiasts. The area also offers diverse facilities, including a 5-star hotel, restaurants, a traditional caravanserai, rental villas, water park, pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, cable cars, cable games, and an amusement park.
Best time to visit: Spring (from early May to late June)
Access: Isfahan Province, 15 km from Khansar, Golestan Kooh
Distance from Isfahan: 165 km (2 hours 10 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Picnic essentials, comfortable clothing and shoes
The Maranjab Desert is located in the northern part of Aran va Bidgol county, which belongs to Kashan. This beautiful desert, with its starry skies during the cold season, is one of the best and most significant tourist attractions near Isfahan. In this desert, you can enjoy activities like camel riding, four-wheeler biking, off-roading, stargazing, photography, and desert trekking. You can also stay in a traditional guesthouse in the heart of the desert, which was once a caravanserai during the Safavid era.
The desert features several attractions, including Kanjeh Well, the Wandering Island, the Watermelon Well, the Hand-dug Well, Kershahi Castle, and the Yakhab Mountain. Despite these natural and tourist attractions, the desert is an excellent place for a one-day trip around Isfahan.
Best time to visit: Second half of the year (Fall)
Access: Isfahan Province, Kashan city, Aran va Bidgol, Army Boulevard, Maranjab Desert Road
Distance from Isfahan: 233 km (2 hours 45 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Desert trekking gear, camera, clothing suitable for desert rains, sunglasses, sunscreen, sun hat
It is surprising to find waterfalls and forests near the desert! One of these wonders is the Ab Malakh Waterfall in Semirom, also known as Takht-e-Soleiman. This waterfall, one of the attractions near Isfahan, has extraordinarily beautiful nature and a peaceful atmosphere, located near the Dena Mountains and the Marber River. The waterfall is dangerous due to the unique mineral properties of its water, which destroys locusts, acting as a natural pesticide.
To reach the waterfall, you need to hike for about an hour after reaching the Ab Malakh village. At the top of the waterfall, there is a spring, and behind it lies a dangerous cliff, which is the reason for its hazardous nature. The waterfall is also called Takht-e-Soleiman because of a large rock that naturally forms a bridge connecting both sides of the river.
Best time to visit: First half of the year
Access: Isfahan Province, 60 km from Semirom, Ab Malakh village, Ab Malakh Waterfall
Distance from Isfahan: 220 km (3 hours 10 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Appropriate clothing, suitable shoes, trekking gear
Another notable attraction near Isfahan is the Niasar Waterfall. This popular site is one of the greenest areas around Isfahan, originating from a spring called "Talar" or "Eskanderiyeh," located above the waterfall near the Niasar Four-Iron Arch. The waterfall has unique stalactites and stalagmites due to the water passing over limestone and sedimentary rocks, enhancing the beauty of the waterfall’s view.
Best time to visit: First half of the year (Summer)
Access: Isfahan, Niasar, Sorkamar neighborhood, Niasar Waterfall
Distance from Isfahan: 233 km (2 hours 44 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Appropriate and warm clothing, suitable shoes
Semirom Waterfall is one of the beautiful attractions near Isfahan, also known as the "Bride of Zagros," and was listed as a natural heritage site in 2010. The waterfall is fed by a river at its top, and a large, beautiful pool lies beneath it, ideal for walking around. The rock wall facing the waterfall has a natural spring with moss, making it even more picturesque. The area also has a small market, restaurant, traditional teahouse, and restroom facilities.
Best time to visit: First half of the year (Spring)
Access: Isfahan Province, 5 km east of Semirom, Semirom Waterfall
Distance from Isfahan: 174 km (2 hours 20 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Appropriate and warm clothing, suitable shoes
9. The Tulip Desert of Bid Fereydan
The village of Darreh Bid Fereydan is a lush, pleasant, and beautiful area with many springs and mountains, making it an ideal destination for a one-day trip near Isfahan. The main attraction of this village is its tulip desert, which provides an incredible and unforgettable view during the spring season. The Fereydan tulip, also known as Maryam's Tear and the tear flower, is a rare and beautiful flower. Other plants like thistle, wild garlic, celery, shallot, and dill also grow in this region's beautiful nature.
The natural beauty of this area, including its vibrant flowers next to abundant springs like the White Spring, Oily Spring, and Aghakhan Spring, along with the presence of facilities such as restrooms, pavilions, and food vendors, attracts many visitors, especially in the first half of the year.
Best time to visit: First half of the year (Spring)
Access: Isfahan, Fereydan, Darreh Bid, Tulip Desert
Distance from Isfahan: 160 km (2 hours 10 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Appropriate clothing and shoes
Gavkhouni Wetland is one of Iran's most famous wetlands and is located near Isfahan. This wetland is situated in the heart of the Varzaneh Desert and serves as a sanctuary for migratory birds during the cold season. With its beautiful and mesmerizing nature, Gavkhouni Wetland is one of the country's valuable natural resources, with water flowing from the Zayandeh Rud River. A part of this wetland is located in Isfahan Province, while another part is in Yazd Province.
Best time to visit: Summer
Access: Isfahan, Varzaneh County, Gavkhouni Wetland
Distance from Isfahan: 136 km (2 hours 2 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Appropriate clothing and shoes
Marghab Asgaran Spring is one of the scenic attractions near Isfahan, offering a pristine and beautiful environment. The mild and mountainous climate, especially in the summer, along with the clear and cool water of the spring, which is drinkable and refreshing, makes this area very attractive to visitors. In addition, the area offers amenities like parking, pavilions, and restrooms, making it an excellent spot for a picnic or a one-day camping trip.
Best time to visit: Spring and Summer
Access: Isfahan Province, Tiran and Karun County, Tiran-Daran Highway, Asgaran, Marghab Spring
Distance from Isfahan: 107 km (1 hour 36 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Appropriate clothing and shoes, tent, food, and camping/picnic gear
In Varzaneh Desert, you can experience the ultimate desert trekking adventure. The desert offers activities such as sand dune walking, sandboarding, four-wheel motorcycle riding, zip-lining, paragliding, buggy riding, camel riding, off-roading, and night photography. The night sky in this desert is spectacular, and the longitudinal, crescent, and towering sand dunes shaped by the wind are eye-catching.
Fortunately, Varzaneh Desert is equipped with various amenities, including a restaurant, open-air concert hall, tea house, motorbike track, camel riding track, pomegranate garden, repair shop, observatory, recreational aviation club, paintball, shooting range, and a wellness center for tourists.
Best time to visit: Fall and Winter
Access: Isfahan, Ghi Street, Kuhpayeh, Herand, Varzaneh Sand Dunes
Distance from Isfahan: 128 km (1 hour 46 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Desert trekking equipment, camera, appropriate clothing for desert rains, sunglasses, sunscreen, sunhat, camping gear
Vartun Hot Spring is located near the village of Vartun, which was historically a retreat for Safavid kings. The hot spring has both public and private baths, and its water is therapeutic, helping to alleviate nerve and rheumatic pains. The area also features Safavid-era bathhouses, which are available for tourists. The spring’s poolhouse, dating back to the Safavid period, is registered as a national heritage site of Iran.
While visiting the hot spring, you can also explore the historic stone building known as the Hoveyeh Morad, along with its holy shrine. The area provides various amenities for tourists, such as traditional accommodations, beautiful rooms, a restaurant, tea house, and a supermarket.
Best time to visit: Winter
Access: Isfahan city, from Isfahan to Naein, 10 km after Vartun village, Vartun Hot Spring
Distance from Isfahan: 77 km (1 hour 24 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Extra clothing for bathing in the hot spring
14. Kurd Aliya Underground City
Kurd Aliya Underground City is one of the tourist attractions and historical sites near Isfahan, built during the reign of Shah Abbas I to combat cold and insecurity. The underground city was constructed in such a way that the villagers dug underground chambers beneath their homes to protect themselves and their livestock. These chambers feature wide corridors and interconnected rooms, forming a vast underground city, one of the most unique and astonishing underground cities in the world today.
Discovered in 2016, this underground city covers an area of over 20,000 square meters and is located in the Kron district of Tiran County. We recommend visiting other attractions in Kurd Aliya, such as Kurd Aliya Waterfall, Shahi Spring, Shahi Lake, and the Dalan Kuh Mountain during your trip.
Best time to visit: Spring
Access: Isfahan Province, Tiran and Karun County, Kurd Aliya Village, Kurd Aliya Underground City
Distance from Isfahan: 115 km (1 hour 40 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Photography equipment, comfortable clothing and shoes
The Morche Khort Historical Citadel is one of the most important historical sites near Isfahan and is the second-largest adobe residential fortress in Iran, after the Bam Citadel. The exact date of construction is unknown, but the fortress’s intricate architecture was designed to protect against enemy attacks. The citadel also played a significant role during Nader Shah Afshar’s battle against the Afghans.
The architecture of this citadel is extraordinary, showcasing the high quality of Iranian architectural art. Watchtowers surround the citadel like a strong fortress. Upon entering, visitors can see the turquoise dome of Imamzadeh Ali's shrine. Narrow alleys, historical passageways, balconies, platforms, staircases, and adobe arches, along with brick decorations, engravings, and paintings, create a beautiful space that once ensured the security of the local people.
Best time to visit: Fall
Access: Isfahan, Shahin Shahr, Morche Khort Historical Citadel
Distance from Isfahan: 56 km (1 hour drive)
Things to bring: Photography equipment, comfortable clothing and shoes
Located in Naein, Isfahan, the Isfahan Desert Anthropology Museum (or Pirnia House) is a valuable ethnographic museum. The building itself features intricate plasterwork, beautiful paintings, and magnificent architecture that adds to its appeal. This museum, dating back to the Safavid era, has 10 different sections for displaying objects related to ethnography. After visiting this museum, you can also explore other beautiful sites in the Naein, Kashan, and Qom areas.
Best time to visit: Spring and Fall
Access: Isfahan, Naein, Masjid Jameh Street, opposite the Jameh Mosque
Distance from Isfahan: 146 km (1 hour 52 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Photography equipment, appropriate clothing
The Sheikh Bahaei Citadel, also known as the Seven Towers of Kharun, is a historical site from the Safavid era located in Najafabad, one of the most populous cities in Isfahan Province. This citadel was originally used as a pigeon house. The citadel features seven towers, six of which are pigeon houses. The citadel is set within a 3,000-square-meter garden, enhancing its charm. There is also a traditional café and tea house for tourists.
Best time to visit: Fall
Access: Isfahan, Najafabad, Kharun neighborhood, Baharistan Boulevard
Distance from Isfahan: 32.5 km (41 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Photography equipment, appropriate clothing
Soliman Dasht is a recreational and fishing complex located near Isfahan, offering a perfect accommodation center for fishing enthusiasts. Its lake is the first artificial lake in Isfahan, providing opportunities for fishing for locals and tourists alike. The complex also offers recreational and sport fishing training, and with quality accommodation facilities available, it’s an excellent destination for a summer trip.
Best time to visit: Spring and Summer
Access: Isfahan, 8th kilometer of Isfahan-Shiraz Road
Distance from Isfahan: 39.9 km (40 minutes drive)
Things to bring: Appropriate clothing and shoes, fishing equipment
19- Zarrin Shahr Beach Park
Zarrin Shahr Beach Park, located in one of the mountainous regions of Isfahan Province, is a perfect spot for a one-day trip near Isfahan. Situated on the northern bank of Zayanderud, south of Zarrin Shahr, this 200,000 square meter park offers a cool and pleasant climate. With its beautiful views, favorable weather, and large lake, it is an ideal destination for a summer trip.
The lake in the park spans 30,000 square meters and includes amenities like restaurants, residential villas, electric cars, fountains, a children's play area, boats for rowing on the lake, and walking paths. Walking along the lake amidst the lush green trees is a delightful experience. Nearby attractions include the Rahim Khan Mosque, Kaboothkhaneh Garden, Kalleh Bridge, and Shah Lara Waterfall, all of which are worth visiting.
Best time to visit: Summer
How to access: Isfahan, Zarrin Shahr, towards the city center square, after Saadi Square, Zarrin Shahr Beach Park
Distance from Isfahan: 47 km (55-minute drive)
What to bring: Comfortable clothes and shoes, picnic essentials
20- Fun in the Scenic City of Chadegan
Chadegan is one of the most important tourist spots near Isfahan, with historians speculating its origin dating back to the Safavid period. This region had a favorable living environment, which led people to migrate here during Shah Abbas I's reign. Many historical stories are tied to this area, including the belief that Alexander the Great once stayed here. Chadegan is also home to the Tomb of Kaveh the Blacksmith.
The city, located along Zayanderud, boasts a temperate climate, lush vegetation, and diverse recreational facilities such as a rowing dock, cycling track, cable car, horseback riding club, separate swimming pools for men and women, sports fields for football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, ping-pong, and both traditional and luxury restaurants for visitors. Many people from Isfahan also visit Chadegan during the summer to enjoy its beautiful mountainous nature.
Best time to visit: Summer
How to access: Isfahan, 120 km west of Isfahan
Distance from Isfahan: 128 km (1 hour and 55-minute drive)
What to bring: Comfortable clothes and shoes, picnic essentials
21- Fereydunshahr Ski Resort
Fereydunshahr Ski Resort is the highest ski resort in Iran and the only standard one in Isfahan Province, attracting around 30,000 visitors each year. Due to its mountainous and snowy terrain, Fereydunshahr is one of the best places for winter sports in the country.
The resort offers various recreational activities such as tubing, ski lifts, tobogganing, educational lifts, chairlifts, zip-lining, and other amenities like accommodations for athletes, a medical clinic, heated rooms, cafes, restaurants, parking, and suites for tourists.
Best time to visit: Winter
How to access: Isfahan, 6 km west of Fereydunshahr, Gorganeh Heights, Chaghivert Village
Distance from Isfahan: 190 km (2 hours and 30-minute drive)
What to bring: Ski gear and winter essentials
22- Khmiran Dam Recreation Complex
Khmiran Dam Recreation Complex is an exciting leisure destination near Isfahan, offering a variety of fun activities. It provides water sports such as shuttle rides, banana boats, scuba diving, jet skiing, dragon boats, water polo, rowing, and beach volleyball through the lake's water sports club. The complex also features facilities like buffets, hot showers, gazebos, umbrellas, and restrooms, making it a perfect spot for family outings.
Best time to visit: Summer
How to access: Isfahan, Isfahan-Najafabad Road, Najafabad-Tiran Freeway, Khmiran Village, Khmiran Dam Recreation Complex
Distance from Isfahan: 73 km (1 hour and 15-minute drive)
What to bring: Comfortable clothes and shoes, picnic essentials
23- Abyaneh Village
Abyaneh Village is an excellent answer to the question, "Where should I go around Isfahan?" Located at the foothills of Mount Karkas, Abyaneh is famous for its red soil. The village's houses, with their red-colored clay walls, are arranged in an ancient, terraced style, adding to the village's charm and uniqueness. The path leading to the village is equally scenic and pleasant.
The river Borzorood flows through this beautiful village, and nearby, you'll find the interesting Pariyan Cave. The surrounding rivers and valleys are pristine and picturesque. With a history dating back 1,500 years, Abyaneh is one of the oldest inhabited areas on the edge of the Kavir Desert. There are so many sights to explore in this village that you'll be continuously amazed during your visit.
Best time to visit: Spring and Summer
How to access: Isfahan Province, Natanz County, 22 km along the Natanz road to Abyaneh
Distance from Isfahan: 185 km (2 hours and 15-minute drive)
What to bring: Comfortable clothes and shoes, picnic essentials
24- Sivor Village
Sivor Village is a mountainous village in Isfahan, located at the base of Mount Alborz, with an untouched and charming nature. Historical evidence shows that the settlement in this village dates back to 1,500 years ago. The area around the village has fruit orchards with apple, walnut, almond, plum, cherry, and strawberry trees, as well as wildlife and plant species like thyme and gund, growing on the slopes of Mount Dena.
Despite major changes, Sivor has preserved its ancient structure, and its population continues to grow. Surrounding the village are natural wonders like the seasonal Godenseh Waterfall, Kahriz Spring, and Darrabeh Garden, all worth visiting.
Best time to visit: Summer
How to access: Isfahan Province, 60 km south of Semirum County, Sivor Village
Distance from Isfahan: 121 km (1 hour and 30-minute drive)
What to bring: Comfortable clothes and shoes, picnic essentials, hiking gear
25- Honjan Village
Honjan Village, a pristine village with a cool and pleasant climate near Isfahan, is known for its cold winters and pleasant summers. Attractions here include Zar Cheshmeh with crystal-clear water flowing from white rocks, the Abka Mineral Spring, the ruins of Ghazian Castle, and the village's picturesque alleyways. Honjan's clear skies make it an excellent spot for stargazing at night.
The extraordinary nature of Honjan, nestled in the Zagros Mountains, with its bubbling springs, recreational areas like Zar Cheshmeh, valuable historical landmarks, and its pure sky, make it a unique and fascinating destination for tourists.
Best time to visit: Spring and Summer
How to access: Isfahan Province, Shahreza County, Esfanjan District, Honjan Village
Distance from Isfahan: 141 km (1 hour and 40-minute drive)
What to bring: Comfortable clothes and shoes, picnic essentials, hiking gear
Final Words
The attractions of Isfahan are not limited to the beauty of the city itself. Surrounding this beautiful city, there are many historical and natural sites, from villages to forests, deserts, and historical landmarks. If you are planning a trip to Isfahan and feel that the city's historical attractions have become a bit repetitive, we suggest you explore the sights around the city.
