The most beautiful tourist attractions around Tabriz in spring / Special for day trips.

The region is home to historical villages with unique natural landscapes, plains, and mountains, some of which are recognized as protected areas. The region also boasts historical castles with awe-inspiring architecture, tourist resorts, ancient temples, and churches, all of which have made Tabriz known worldwide and among Iranians as a popular tourist destination. In the following, we will introduce some of the attractions both within and around Tabriz.

Historical Villages and Attractions Around Tabriz

Tabriz is a city where visitors can experience many firsts; by traveling to Tabriz, the capital of East Azerbaijan province, one can explore a wide range of nearby villages, each offering its own stories to tell. These villages are so beautiful and attractive that the famous poet from Tabriz, Master Shahriar, praised the city in these words:

"Night is here and the garden of Golestan, the autumn of dreamy ecstasy, ***Come, for Tabriz mocks Shiraz."

Here are a few of the villages and tourist spots around Tabriz, which are rich in natural and historical attractions.

Charaghil Village
Charaghil Village is one of the notable destinations near Tabriz, located about 80 km southwest of the city. The village is close to Azarshahr and belongs to this district. Its beautiful nature and cool climate are due to its location in a sloping valley with the seasonal Azarshahr River flowing nearby. The village is also famous for its historic Stone Mosque, which is built from stones dug out of the mountain. The construction of this mosque, according to the remnants discovered, was carried out with traditional hand tools.

Though the exact date of construction is unclear, locals believe that the mosque is over 500 years old. The mosque’s entrance and windows were crafted from stones taken from the mountain, and two large stone columns with a diameter of 1.5 meters provide the foundation for the mosque.

Location: East Azerbaijan Province, southwest of Tabriz, Sardroud beltway, Ilkhchi road, Azarshahr district, Majarashin road.

Shirran Village
Located about 105 km from Tabriz, Shirran Village is situated along the Shirran Road. The village is known for its lush and beautiful nature, with several waterfalls cascading from cliffs and mountains, adding a special charm to the area. The "Sari Bereh," "Mis di Qalasi," and "Goran Darbandi" waterfalls are among the notable waterfalls near Shirran. The area also boasts diverse vegetation and wildlife, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, making it a vibrant and lively place.

However, the main attraction in Shirran is the Shirvan waterfall, located in the northern part of the village, which reaches a height of 12 meters. The natural pool at the base of the waterfall is perfect for swimming during the spring and summer months.

Location: East Azerbaijan Province, northeast of Tabriz, Haris road, Meshginshahr road, Shirran road.

Hilevar Village
Hilevar Village is located 50 km from Tabriz and is known for its colorful autumns. It is one of the most pleasant villages around Tabriz during the fall. The village has historical and natural attractions that should not be missed. Although the exact age of the village is unknown, artifacts and pottery found in the area suggest that it dates back to the post-Islamic period in Iran. The architecture of the old houses in this village is also remarkable.

Nearby, there is another village called Kandovan, which is more famous, but Hilevar also attracts many visitors. The ancient houses of the village were buried underground to protect them from enemies and have been gradually eroded over time.

Location: East Azerbaijan Province, south of Tabriz, near Kandovan road, before reaching Kandovan village.

Kandovan Village
Located just 55 km south of Tabriz, Kandovan is another notable village and is famous for its unique cave-like houses, which are carved into volcanic rocks. This village’s architecture is attributed to the volcanic activity in the region. The village enjoys a pleasant climate and is well-known for its mineral spring, which is used for hydrotherapy.

Location: East Azerbaijan Province, south of Tabriz, Esko road, Kandovan village road.

Leghvan Village
In the southeastern part of Tabriz, at the foothills of Mount Sahand, lies the beautiful Leghvan Village, a popular destination in the summer. The terraced houses in the village resemble the architecture of Masuleh village. Leghvan is known for its famous dairy product, Leghvan cheese, and the beautiful valley and river nearby, which also serve as sources of drinking water and irrigation for the village.

Location: East Azerbaijan Province, southeast of Tabriz, Tabirz-Zanjan road, Leghvan road.

Natural Attractions Around Tabriz
In addition to the villages, the surrounding region offers several protected areas like Sahand and Meshudadagh, and natural wonders such as the Gol Akhur, Iskander, and Aysab Kharabe waterfalls, all of which can provide memorable experiences for travelers.

Sahand Protected Area
Sahand Protected Area is one of the notable attractions near Tabriz, located in the mountainous regions of Sahand, 65 km south of Tabriz city. The area covers approximately 60,000 hectares, with some parts extending into different cities. The cities of Tabriz, Maragheh, Esko, Bonab, and Ajabshir all include portions of the Sahand Protected Area. The altitude varies between 1,500 and 3,400 meters above sea level, contributing to the area's high diversity in plant life and animal species.

Interestingly, there are seven permanent rivers in this protected area: "Kandovan," "Lighvan," "Qaleh Chai," "Chavan Chai," "Gonbar Chai," "Molla Heydar Chai," and "Rinjanab." The presence of these rivers further enriches the area's diverse plant cover and cool climate. Sahand Protected Area is home to various species, including the leopard, brown bear, wild cat, wild sheep, and birds such as the golden eagle, vulture, partridge, sparrowhawk, and quail.

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, south of Tabriz, Kandovan village road.

Mishodagh Protected Area
Mishodagh Protected Area is another beautiful spot near Tabriz, located 80 km northwest of the city, nestled in the foothills of Mishodagh Mountain. This protected area covers regions of both the eastern and western parts of Tabriz, and includes the Marand Plain and Shabestar Plain.

Numerous permanent rivers originate from the northern slopes of Mishodagh Mountain, which contribute to the area's cool climate. Due to continuous damage over the years, a large portion of the area's vegetation has been lost, putting many animal species at risk of extinction.

In addition to Mishodagh, nearby protected areas such as "Merkan," "Yekanat," and "Kiamaki Wildlife Refuge" further enhance the region's biodiversity. To the south lies Lake Urmia, which has faced drying concerns in recent years.

Over 385 plant species have been recorded in the area, alongside various animal species like sand vipers, wolves, turtles, and foxes. Birds such as the saker falcon, eagle, lark, partridge, and sparrowhawk are also seen in the skies above.

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, northwest of Tabriz, Marand road, Sofiyan village, Sofiyan-Shabestar road.

Gol Akhor Waterfall
Gol Akhor Waterfall, located in Varzqan, is one of the most popular natural attractions around Tabriz. It lies 85 km northwest of Tabriz and is named after the nearby village, meaning "flower drop."

This waterfall is about 12 meters high, fed by springs in the elevated areas of Gol Akhor village. Due to the presence of this waterfall and the numerous springs, the vegetation around the area is lush and diverse.

Gol Akhor village is a terraced village, and its unique architecture has attracted many visitors. The water from the waterfall and surrounding springs is calcareous, creating stunning landscapes from the erosion of the water.

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, northwest of Tabriz, Marand road, Iri road, Estargan village road, Gol Akhor road.

Iskandar Waterfall
Iskandar Waterfall, located 45 km southeast of Tabriz, is another prominent and tall waterfall in the region. It lies on the northern slopes of Sahand Mountain, near the village of Tovighon, with a height of up to 30 meters.

In winter, the waterfall freezes, attracting ice climbers. The waterfall is located along the road from Tabriz to Ahar, and visitors need to take a detour to the Tovighon village road.

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, southeast of Tabriz, Harris road, Tovighon road, Alanq road, Iskandar village.

Abyssinia Waterfall
Another well-known waterfall near Tabriz is Abyssinia Waterfall, located 160 km northwest of the city in the beautiful valley near the village of Jolfah. It is also known as "Kharaba Dierman" among locals and takes its name from the nearby old mill, "Abyssinia."

The waterfall consists of several small and large falls, with the tallest reaching 15 meters. These waterfalls originate from a spring in Mount Kiamaki in the Arasbaran region.

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, northwest of Tabriz, Marand road, Hadi city road, Siyahroud road, Abyssinia Waterfall road.

Aladag Lar Colored Mountains
Located 25 kilometers northeast of Tabriz, the Aladag Lar colored mountains are a unique natural attraction, distinct from the usual tourist spots around Tabriz. These mountains, which are in close proximity to the city, showcase vibrant colors like red, orange, yellow, green, and blue.

Several villages surround the colorful mountains, offering additional opportunities for exploration. The Aladag Lar mountains create rare and breathtaking landscapes, with few similar formations around the world. These colors have resulted from the erosion of iron-rich sedimentary basins.

Other colored mountains in the area owe their hues to various minerals found in the Aladag Lar region. These mountains are over 15 million years old, making them one of the oldest natural phenomena on Earth.

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, northeast of Tabriz, Tabriz-Ehder road

Saeedabad Valley
Saeedabad Valley, located 45 kilometers southeast of Tabriz, is one of the most famous highlands in East Azerbaijan Province. The valley is named after the nearby village of Saeedabad. The river "Seyed Awa Chay" flowing through the valley nourishes the lush vegetation, contributing to the valley's greenery and biodiversity.

In spring and summer, the valley flourishes with fields and fruit orchards, producing abundant blossoms and fruits. Situated at the base of Mount Sahand, the valley is significantly influenced by the region's snow and rainfall during colder months.

The historic Saeedabad Bridge, known as "Sheikh Bridge," dates back to the Safavid era. Other significant historical landmarks around the valley include the caravanserais "Haj Ababa" and "Gadamagah."

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, southeast of Tabriz, Haris road, Saeedabad village

Quri Gol Wetland
Located near the village of Yusufabad, Quri Gol Wetland is another natural gem of the Tabriz region. This wetland is fed by melting snow from the surrounding mountains. The area's freshwater supply makes it unique, as it is an essential water source for nearby villages.

The primary allure of Quri Gol Wetland comes from its role as a migratory stop for various bird species during the colder months. The wetland spans around 200 hectares, with a sweetwater lake that serves as a primary drinking water source for nearby villages.

The wetland is home to endangered bird species, including the white-headed duck and the marble duck, and various animals like foxes, wolves, and snakes. Additionally, the vegetation around the wetland includes wild lilies, yarrow, and aquatic plants like lotus.

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, Tabriz-Zanjan road, Akin Abad village, Quri Gol Wetland road

Gom Tepe Desert
Although a sandy desert in the mountainous region of East Azerbaijan may seem unlikely, the Gom Tepe desert is located in the northeast of Tabriz, near the Sofiyan area. This seasonal sandy desert is covered in snow during the winter months, making it different from the central deserts of Iran.

A visit to this mountain desert is recommended year-round, although its true essence is revealed in the warmer months.

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, northeast of Tabriz, near Sofiyan

Historical Attractions Near Tabriz
Tabriz, the capital of East Azerbaijan, holds great significance for Turkic and Azeri peoples and is a repository of Persian history. Numerous historical sites surround Tabriz, including well-preserved castles and other ancient landmarks. Below are some notable examples:

Pineh Shalvar Historical Cemetery
Located 10 kilometers southeast of Tabriz, the Pineh Shalvar Cemetery is one of the oldest burial grounds in the city, dating back to prehistory. The cemetery’s gravestones resemble those found at the Khalid Nabi cemetery in Golestan.

The cemetery is believed to have been used across three historical periods, with stones belonging to various cultures and ethnicities.

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, south of Tabriz, Shadabad Meshayekh village, Pineh Shalvar Cemetery

Hulaku Khan Castle
The Hulaku Khan Castle is another historical landmark in the region, situated near the village of Aq Gundeb in the heights of the surrounding mountains. This castle, which dates back to the Sassanian era, later served as a stronghold for Mongol rulers. Its architectural style is similar to the Babak Castle and was used for both military and resting purposes.

The castle is surrounded by three steep cliffs, which make it a difficult place to explore. It was a strategic location for soldiers to rest and stay safe from invaders.

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, Sardroud ring road, Ilkhchi road, Azarshahr, Majarshin road

Jushin Castle
Jushin Castle, located 100 kilometers north of Tabriz, was built during the first millennium BCE, around the time of the Achaemenid Empire. This historical fortress stands in the mountainous region of Dizmar Arasbaran, overlooking a steep ridge.

The castle includes well-preserved watchtowers and stone walls. Archaeologists believe it served as a stronghold during the early Islamic era and may have been connected to the Khurramites.

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, Varzeqan-Kharvana road, Jushin village

Zahhak Castle
Zahhak Castle, also known as "Narin Castle," is located 150 kilometers southeast of Tabriz. The castle dates back to the Parthian and Sassanian periods and is believed by some historians to have been a sanctuary for the goddess Anahita.

The fort is characterized by its rectangular stone towers and Sassanian architectural features. It has been suggested that it was used as a military fortress, possibly during the time of the Sassanian Empire.

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, Tabriz-Zanjan road, Aliabad Aliyeh village, Arablu village

Pashtab Castle
Pashtab Castle, located 180 kilometers northeast of Tabriz, was used as a military outpost. The castle sits atop a rocky mountain, surrounded by dangerous cliffs. It was built during the Parthian and Sassanian periods and played an important role in communication with other castles in the region.

The castle is accessible via a 220-step stone staircase, and its walls are made from a combination of stone, clay, and mortar. The region around the castle is known for its diverse flora and fauna.

Address: East Azerbaijan Province, Ehare road, Hoorand road

Babak Castle
Babak Castle is a historic site and one of the ancient fortresses near Tabriz, located 190 kilometers northeast of Tabriz and 3 kilometers southwest of Kalibar. According to historians, based on discovered pottery and artifacts, this castle, like many others around Tabriz, dates back to the Parthian and Sassanian periods. Babak Castle is also known by the names "Babak Fortress" and "Jomhoor Castle."
This castle is situated at an elevation of 2,700 meters above sea level, surrounded by deep valleys ranging from 400 to 500 meters. The castle is named after "Babak Khorramdin" and his companions, who resided there. However, there is no historical information regarding its use after Babak Khorramdin for Iranian kings or local rulers.
Four cylindrical watchtowers are positioned at the corners of the castle, overseeing all surrounding areas. The entrance to this fort is a narrow path, which is a strategic advantage.
Most of the castle's structures are located in the northwest and include a three-story building, a main hall, and seven rooms. The other parts of the castle are also situated in the northwest. To visit Babak Castle, one must travel from Tabriz toward the Ahar and Kalibar roads and then ascend a narrow, winding mountain path.
Location: East Azerbaijan Province, 3 kilometers southwest of Kalibar.

Leilan Bridge
The historical Leilan Bridge is built over a seasonal river called "Leilan Chay," located 1 kilometer south of the city of Leilan. This bridge is 165 kilometers south of Tabriz and serves as a connection between the villages of "Fathollah Kandi" and "Mohsenabad" and the city of Leilan.
The presence of the "Leilan Chay" river has made the surrounding land fertile, and the water is used for irrigation. The architecture of the Leilan Bridge bears strong similarities to structures from the Ilkhanid period. Although there are no inscriptions or documents to confirm the exact time of construction, the similarity to Ilkhanid architecture suggests it was built during that era.
The Leilan Bridge has three equal-sized arches, constructed using carved stones and bricks. To the west of the bridge are three semi-circular buttresses, and to the east is a triangular wavebreaker dam. Recently, a new bridge has been built 100 meters west of the Leilan Bridge to protect it from potential damage.
Location: East Azerbaijan Province, Miyandoab, Sattar Khan Highway, Mahmoodabad Road.

Maragheh Observatory
Maragheh Observatory is one of the most famous observatories in Iranian history and is recognized as the first observatory in the world and the oldest scientific center in the Islamic world. It was built in the 7th century AH under the direction of Khwaja Nasir al-Din al-Tusi during the Ilkhanid period.
After the Mongol invasion of Iran and the conquest of the region by Genghis Khan, he appointed his grandson, Hulagu Khan, as the ruler of Iran. Khwaja Nasir al-Din al-Tusi worked diligently to prevent irreversible destruction and contributed to the advancement and prosperity of Iran. During Hulagu Khan’s reign, Maragheh Observatory became one of the leading centers for scholars in the Islamic world and continued scientific research. Some prominent scholars who worked there include "Qutb al-Din al-Shirazi" and "Al-Tusi."
The construction of this scientific center took around 15 years, and under Hulagu Khan’s orders, a vast collection of astronomical books and instruments was assembled. Maragheh Observatory housed over 400,000 manuscripts, making it unique for its time. The observatory remained in operation until the reign of Mohammad Khodabandeh, but after his rule, it fell into neglect and disuse.
The observatory's structure consists of a cylindrical central tower, a library, and a separate room. Inside the main tower are six rooms connected by a corridor, constructed using a mixture of plaster, rubble stones, and carved stones. This observatory became a model for constructing other observatories worldwide.
Location: East Azerbaijan Province, Maragheh Ring Road, Vali Asr Boulevard, Observatory Street.

Red Dome of Maragheh
The Red Dome of Maragheh is another prominent and ancient structure located 140 kilometers south of Tabriz, in the city of Maragheh. Built in 542 AH by "Abd al-Aziz ibn Mahmud" and architect "Bani Bakr Mohammad," this dome serves as the tomb for five notable figures from Maragheh.
The architecture of the dome is of unique Azari style, featuring red bricks and turquoise tiles. The inscriptions around the dome include verses from the Quran and the date of its construction.
Location: East Azerbaijan Province, Maragheh City, Aqa Lar Street, Arjmandi Street, Red Dome Park.

Temples and Churches Around Tabriz
Tabriz, a historical city in northeastern Iran, is home to numerous temples and churches. In addition to those within the city, there are several famous religious sites in the surrounding areas.

Mehr Vejui Temple
The Mehr Vejui Temple is a historical and religious structure located 150 kilometers south of Tabriz in the city of Maragheh. This temple, believed to have been built during the Parthian period, is considered one of the largest and most magnificent buildings of its time. It is part of an ancient complex, situated under an old cemetery, though large parts of it remain buried.
The temple has carved Quranic verses on its walls, which some experts believe date from the Ilkhanid period. After the Islamic conquest, the temple was converted into a khanqah (Sufi lodge).
Location: East Azerbaijan Province, Maragheh City, Nursing and Midwifery College Road, Vejui Garden Road, Chai Baghi Village Road, Mehr Temple Road.

St. Hovhannes Church
St. Hovhannes Church is one of the historical churches located near Tabriz, situated 135 km south of the city in the town of Maragheh. This church was constructed in 1840 AD under the command of Sardar Samson Khan and designed in Russian architectural style, at the site of an old, abandoned church from the 5th and 6th centuries. After about a century, the church suffered significant damage due to a powerful earthquake, resulting in the destruction of many parts of the structure.

The church features a rectangular layout in the eastern and western sections, and it is named after one of Christ's apostles. St. Hovhannes is the only historical church that remains in Maragheh, with its peak period believed to coincide with the first church built during the Ilkhanid period. It once served as a major center for Catholic Armenians but no longer holds this function.

The church has three main sections:

1. The Archbishop's Platform

2. The School

3. A Place for Lighting Candles

Above the church's entrance door, there is a pyramidal dome and a bell tower, while each of the interior sections of the church also features separate domes. The height of the pyramidal dome and bell tower is greater than the other domes. The church is made of brick, and unique decorations adorn its domes and altar.

Address: St. Hovhannes Church, Imam Khomeini Street, Darband Church Street, Maragheh, East Azerbaijan Province.

Mojumbaar Church
Mojumbaar Church is another church located near Tabriz, 30 km away on the Tabriz-Merand road in the Shabestan district. The church, also known as St. Hripsime, is situated 50 km northwest of Tabriz in the village of Mojumbaar. This village, located in a lush valley with stunning natural scenery, attracts visitors with its terraced houses made of stone and brick.

The church building is large and unique, but its exact age remains uncertain. However, some historians suggest that the church was built between the 9th and 13th centuries, mainly because of the architectural similarities it shares with other Ilkhanid structures.

To visit this church, take the 30th km of the Tabriz-Merand road, then follow a paved road that branches off into a dirt road passing through fields and hills, leading you to the village of Mojumbaar.

Address: Mojumbaar Church, Mojumbaar Road, Sar Road, Northwest of Tabriz, East Azerbaijan Province.

Other Attractions Around Tabriz
Tabriz and its surrounding areas boast numerous scenic sites that attract tourists. Some of the notable attractions include:

1. Amend Dam
   Amend Dam is located near the village of the same name, 20 km northwest of Tabriz. It has become a recreational destination for both locals and tourists, offering a range of amenities such as a five-star hotel and eco-lodges. Activities include boating, jet skiing, water skiing, horseback riding, golf, and soccer. The dam has significantly contributed to agricultural development and solved drinking water supply issues for nearby villages.

Address: Amend Dam, Tabriz-Shabestar Road, East Azerbaijan Province.

2. Payam Ski Resort
   Located 60 km northwest of Tabriz, Payam Ski Resort is a popular winter destination for locals and tourists. The resort is situated in the mountainous area of the Sheshmadagh range. It features three chairlifts and offers suitable slopes for beginners, along with amenities for visitors.

Address: Payam Ski Resort, Merand Road, Sheshmadagh Mountain Range, East Azerbaijan Province.

Spring Attractions Around Tabriz
The beauty of many of the attractions around Tabriz can only be fully appreciated in the spring when nature comes to life. Spring is the season of blooming flowers and revitalized life, making these spots even more magical. Some of the best spring destinations around Tabriz include:

1. Sahand Protected Area

2. Sheshmadagh Protected Area

3. Charaghil Village

4. Leghvan Village

5. Kandovan Village

6. Hilevar Village

7. Gory Gol Wetland

8. Babak Castle

9. Zahhak Castle

10. Pashtab Castle

11. Gol Akhoor Waterfall