7 Popular and Affordable Countries for Iranians to Travel to

Sunday, March 30, 2025

Many people are in search of the cheapest countries to travel to. A trip that is carried out with security and peace of mind, providing suitable recreational and comfort facilities, while also being economical. In this article, we aim to introduce 7 popular and favorite travel destinations for Iranians.

7 Popular and Affordable Countries for Iranians to Travel to

Traveling is one of the most enjoyable activities that people engage in to spend their leisure time and holidays. Through travel, individuals can get acquainted with the customs and traditions of the regions they visit and create new experiences for themselves. For this reason, many people prioritize international travel. However, with rising exchange rates and challenges like obtaining tourist visas, traveling abroad has become quite expensive and inaccessible for Iranians. Although Iran has many cities and tourist areas where you can spend your holidays, international travel is still full of new experiences that you can learn from. Therefore, this article introduces seven countries as the most popular and affordable foreign destinations for Iranians.

Turkey

Turkey is located in the northwest of Iran. Due to its proximity to Iran and cultural and linguistic similarities with the Iranian people, Turkey is one of the primary travel destinations for Iranian tourists. Another appealing aspect of Turkey is that no visa is required for Iranian travelers. The climate and modernity of Turkey are very similar to European countries, but traveling and staying in Turkey is much more affordable for Iranians compared to other European countries. The most popular tourist tours in Turkey for Iranians include Istanbul, Antalya, Kusadasi, and Marmaris, and the best times to visit are during spring and autumn. Turkish markets and products are also very popular among Iranians, and besides tourism, business and shopping are additional reasons why Iranians visit Turkey.

Turkey has four main climate regions, each with its unique appeal:

  • The southern and western beaches, which have a Mediterranean and cool climate.

  • The Black Sea coast, which has a mild and humid winter and warm summers.

  • The northern and northeastern areas, which border Iran and have a cold, mountainous climate.

  • The Anatolian Plateau, which forms the central part of Turkey and has a dry, continental climate.

Iraq

Another neighboring country of Iran is Iraq, which is known as an affordable travel destination for Iranians. Located to the west of Iran, Iraq has become a popular travel spot due to the presence of religious cities such as Karbala, Najaf, and Samarra, as well as the holy shrines of several imams. Iraq's proximity to Iran also makes it an attractive destination. Furthermore, since 2019, visa issuance for Iraqi pilgrims and tourists has been waived, which has significantly increased travel between the two countries.

Some of the notable religious sites in Najaf include the tombs of Adam, Noah, Hud, and Saleh, the Kufa Mosque, and the Wadi al-Salam Cemetery. Other attractions include the Nimrud Tower, the tomb of Sheikh Tusi, and several mosques and religious schools.

Dubai

Dubai is a coastal city located along the Persian Gulf. In 2007, it was recognized as the eighth most visited city in the world. Dubai uniquely blends tradition and modernity, offering exceptional coastal and desert recreation. The city is filled with one-of-a-kind experiences, luxury, and excitement, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations globally. Visitors can enjoy beautiful structures, luxury shopping, and thrilling activities like water sports, skiing in summer, and desert safaris.

The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and the beaches are busy. Dubai boasts numerous attractions, such as the Palm Jumeirah, the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Museum, and desert safaris.

Armenia

Armenia is a small country to the north of Iran and shares a border with it. One of Armenia's main tourist attractions is Yerevan, the capital city, which offers both natural and historical attractions. The cultural and traditional similarities between Armenia and Iran make it an appealing destination for Iranians. Armenia’s proximity to Iran means it is easily accessible by land and air, making it an affordable destination compared to places like Dubai or Turkey. Yerevan's architecture is a blend of traditional and modern styles.

The best time to visit Armenia is from May to June and from September to October, when the weather is warm but mild. Notable tourist attractions in Armenia include the Etchmiadzin Cathedral, the Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries, the Azat River Valley, and the Garni Temple.

Georgia

Georgia, another beautiful neighbor to the north of Iran, attracts many Iranians due to its unique beauty and customs. Tbilisi, the capital, is one of the most visited cities in Georgia. Traveling to Georgia is very affordable, and it does not require a visa. Georgia is easily accessible by both air and land. The diversity of Georgia's climate makes it a four-season country, with different regions offering unique experiences. Popular tourist attractions in Georgia include Batumi, Tbilisi, the Narikala Fortress, and the botanical gardens.

Thailand

Thailand, located in Southeast Asia, is one of the top three destinations for Iranians. With its stunning natural beauty, historical landmarks, and Buddhist temples, Thailand is a popular travel spot. The country enjoys a mild climate, making it an ideal choice for those who love warm weather. The best time to visit is from November to February when the weather is cooler and drier. Cities like Phuket, Pattaya, and Koh Samui are some of the top destinations, while Bangkok, the capital, is a bustling commercial and entertainment hub.

China

China, with its blend of tradition and modernity, offers countless attractions, such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Warriors. Cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong are among the most advanced and exciting places to visit in China. The cost of travel in China is relatively low, making it an affordable destination for tourists. The best times to visit China are from April to May and September to October when the weather is most pleasant.