Broke Backpacking In Iran: The Ultimate Guide

As I set out on my journey through Iran, I was struck by the warm hospitality and rich culture that surrounded me. Every moment in stunning mosques and colourful bazaars is just a feast for the senses. Best of all? You do it all on an empty wallet!
The entire feel of backpacking through Iran was something totally different from anything else. From secret gardens to quaint little local eateries serving delicious street food, I found hidden treasures that many tourists didn’t find. Along the way, fellow travelers and locals alike shared their stories and insights into this incredible country.
In this blog, I will share all my tips and tricks that I picked up along the way-from finding budget-friendly accommodation to navigating the local transport system. Take a detour off the beaten track and come with me as I discover the natural wonders, historic sites, and cultural treasures that make Iran such an unforgettable destination. So join me on an Iranian adventure, discovering its magic on a broke budget!

How to get there:

From Turkey

  • Take a bus from Istanbul or Ankara to the Turkish-Iranian border town of Gürbulak
  • Cross the border on foot and take a taxi or bus to the Iranian town of Bazargan
  • From Bazargan, take a bus or train to Tabriz or Tehran

From Armenia

  • Take a marshrutka (minivan) from Yerevan to the Armenian-Iranian border town of Meghri
  • Cross the border on foot and take a taxi or bus to the Iranian town of Jolfa
  • From Jolfa, take a bus or train to Tabriz or Tehran

From Azerbaijan

  • Take a bus from Baku to the Azeri-Iranian border town of Astara
  • Cross the border on foot and take a taxi or bus to the Iranian town of Rasht
  • From Rasht, take a bus or train to Tehran

From Pakistan

  • Take a bus from Quetta or Zahedan to the Pakistani-Iranian border town of Taftan
  • Cross the border on foot and take a taxi or bus to the Iranian town of Zahedan
  • From Zahedan, take a bus or train to Tehran or other major cities

When to go:

Spring (March to May)

  • Weather: Mild temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
  • Pros:
  • Comfortable weather for sightseeing
  • Fewer tourists compared to summer
  • Beautiful blooming flowers and greenery
  • Cons:
  • Some attractions might still be closed after winter
  • Occasional rain showers

Summer (June to August)

  • Weather: Hot temperatures, often reaching 40°C (104°F) or higher
  • Pros:
  • Longer days for exploring
  • Festivals and events like the Shiraz Arts Festival
  • Warm weather for swimming and outdoor activities
  • Cons:
  • Scorching heat and sun exposure
  • Peak tourist season, higher prices, and larger crowds

Autumn (September to November)

  • Weather: Pleasant temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
  • Pros:
  • Comfortable weather for sightseeing
  • Harvest season, with delicious local fruits and nuts
  • Fewer tourists compared to summer
  • Cons:
  • Some attractions might start closing for winter
  • Occasional rain showers

Winter (December to February)

  • Weather: Cold temperatures, often below 0°C (32°F)
  • Pros:
  • Lowest prices for accommodations and tours
  • Skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the mountains
  • Fewer tourists, more authentic local experiences
  • Cons:
  • Chilly weather, potential snowstorms
  • Some attractions and roads might be closed

Special Events and Festivals

  • Nowruz (Persian New Year): March 20-21
  • Sizdah Bedar (Nature Day): April 1-2
  • Tirgan (Midsummer): July 1-2
  • Chaharshanbe Suri (Fire Festival): March 15-16

Best Itineraries:

3 Days

  • Day 1: Tehran
  • Visit Golestan Palace, Imam Mosque, and Grand Bazaar
  • Explore the National Museum of Iran and Tehran’s underground art scene
  • Day 2: Tehran to Kashan (bus, ~4 hours)
  • Discover the ancient city of Kashan, including Fin Garden and Borujerdi House
  • Wander through the Kashan Bazaar and try local delicacies
  • Day 3: Kashan to Tehran (bus, ~4 hours)
  • Return to Tehran for departure
  • Visit the iconic Azadi Tower and explore the trendy neighborhood of Darakeh

1 Week

  • Day 1-2: Tehran
  • Explore palaces, mosques, and bazaars
  • Visit Varamin and the ancient city of Rey
  • Day 3-4: Kashan
  • Discover ancient city and gardens
  • Take a day trip to desert village of Kuhpayeh and explore the Maranjab Desert
  • Day 5-6: Isfahan (bus, ~4 hours)
  • Marvel at Imam Square, mosques, and bridges
  • Explore ancient city of Pasargadae and the vibrant arts scene
  • Day 7: Return to Tehran (bus, ~4 hours)
  • Visit the Sa’ad Abad Complex and the bustling Tajrish neighborhood

2 Weeks

  • Day 1-3: Tehran
  • Explore palaces, mosques, and bazaars
  • Visit Varamin and ancient city of Rey
  • Day 4-6: Kashan
  • Discover ancient city and gardens
  • Take day trips to desert village of Kuhpayeh and Maranjab Desert
  • Day 7-9: Isfahan
  • Marvel at Imam Square, mosques, and bridges
  • Explore ancient city of Pasargadae and vibrant arts scene
  • Day 10-12: Yazd (bus, ~5 hours)
  • Explore ancient city and windcatchers
  • Visit Zoroastrian Fire Temple and Towers of Silence
  • Wander through the narrow alleys and try local delicacies
  • Day 13-14: Shiraz (bus, ~5 hours)
  • Discover the poetry and gardens of Shiraz
  • Visit the ancient city of Persepolis and Pasargadae
  • Explore the vibrant arts scene and try local wine

1 Month

  • Week 1: Tehran, Kashan, and Isfahan
  • Explore palaces, mosques, and bazaars
  • Visit Varamin, Rey, and ancient city of Pasargadae
  • Week 2: Yazd, Kerman, and Shiraz
  • Discover ancient cities and windcatchers
  • Visit Zoroastrian Fire Temple and Towers of Silence
  • Explore Persepolis and Pasargadae
  • Week 3: Bushehr and the Persian Gulf
  • Relax on the beach and try seafood
  • Visit the ancient city of Tawaj and the scenic village of Chahkoutah
  • Week 4: Return to Tehran and explore the surrounding regions
  • Visit the iconic Azadi Tower and trendy neighborhood of Darakeh
  • Explore the underground art scene and try local delicacies

3 Months

  • Month 1: Explore northern Iran
  • Visit Tehran, Kashan, and Isfahan
  • Explore the Caspian Sea region and the scenic village of Masouleh
  • Month 2: Discover central Iran
  • Visit Yazd, Kerman, and Shiraz
  • Explore Persepolis and Pasargadae
  • Wander through the narrow alleys and try local delicacies
  • Month 3: Relax in southern Iran
  • Visit Bushehr and the Persian Gulf
  • Relax on the beach and try seafood
  • Explore the ancient city of Tawaj and scenic village of Chahkoutah

Transportation:

Iran has a well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to get around without breaking the bank. In this section, we’ll cover everything you need to know about public transportation in Iran, from buses and trains to taxis and metro lines.

Buses

  • Extensive network of buses connecting major cities
  • Types of buses:
  • City buses ( within cities)
  • Intercity buses (between cities)
  • Tourist buses (for sightseeing)
  • Tickets can be purchased at bus terminals or on the bus
  • Prices are affordable ( approx. 500-1000 IRR (~ $1-2 USD) per trip)

Trains

  • Train network connects major cities, including Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz
  • Types of trains:
  • Passenger trains
  • Freight trains
  • Tourist trains (luxury trains for sightseeing)
  • Tickets can be purchased online or at train stations
  • Prices vary depending on class and route (approx. 5000-50000 IRR (~ $10-100 USD) per trip)

Taxis

  • Taxis are widely available in cities
  • Types of taxis:
  • Private taxis
  • Shared taxis (minivans)
  • Motorbike taxis
  • Prices are negotiable (approx. 1000-5000 IRR (~ $2-10 USD) per trip)

Metro

  • Metro lines in Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz
  • Modern and efficient
  • Tickets can be purchased at metro stations
  • Prices are affordable (approx. 500-1000 IRR (~ $1-2 USD) per trip)

Other Transportation Options

  • Domestic flights
  • Private car rentals
  • Motorbike rentals
  • Bicycle rentals

Top things to do:

Tehran:

  • Visit the historic neighborhood of Udlajan and the Imamzadeh Zeid shrine
  • Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Tehran Museum of Modern Art
  • Check out the vibrant nightlife in the Darakeh neighborhood
  • Visit the Sa’ad Abad Complex and the Mellat Park
  • Explore the historic city of Varamin and its ancient mosque
  • Visit the ancient city of Rey and its historic fortress
  • Explore the traditional village of Pishva and its scenic surroundings

Kashan:

  • Visit the ancient city of Natanz and the nearby Karkas mountain
  • Explore the traditional village of Qamsar and its rosewater distilleries
  • Relax in the scenic Bagh-e Fin gardens and the Kashan Bazaar
  • Visit the historic city of Aran va Bidgol and its ancient fortress
  • Explore the traditional village of Niasar and its scenic surroundings
  • Visit the ancient city of Abuzeydabad and its historic mosque
  • Explore the traditional village of Borujerd and its scenic surroundings

Isfahan:

  • Visit the historic city of Na’in and its ancient mosque
  • Explore the traditional village of Toudeshk and its scenic surroundings
  • Check out the vibrant arts scene in the Jolfa neighborhood and the Isfahan Music Museum
  • Visit the historic city of Shahrekord and its ancient fortress
  • Explore the traditional village of Saman and its scenic surroundings
  • Visit the ancient city of Shahr-e Kord and its historic mosque
  • Explore the traditional village of Farsan and its scenic surroundings

Yazd:

  • Visit the ancient city of Kharanak and its historic fortress
  • Explore the traditional village of Tizuk and its scenic surroundings
  • Relax in the scenic Dolat Abad gardens and the Yazd Water Museum
  • Visit the historic city of Ardakan and its ancient mosque
  • Explore the traditional village of Taft and its scenic surroundings
  • Visit the ancient city of Bafq and its historic fortress
  • Explore the traditional village of Behabad and its scenic surroundings

Shiraz:

  • Visit the historic city of Estakhr and its ancient ruins
  • Explore the traditional village of Sepidan and its scenic surroundings
  • Check out the vibrant arts scene in the Zandiyeh neighborhood and the Shiraz Museum of Art
  • Visit the historic city of Abadeh and its ancient fortress
  • Explore the traditional village of Izadkhast and its scenic surroundings
  • Visit the ancient city of Kazerun and its historic mosque
  • Explore the traditional village of Felosan and its scenic surroundings

Bushehr:

  • Visit the historic city of Ganaveh and its ancient harbor
  • Explore the traditional village of Bandar-e-Abbas and its scenic surroundings
  • Relax on the scenic beaches of the Persian Gulf
  • Visit the historic city of Kangan and its ancient fortress
  • Explore the traditional village of Jam and its scenic surroundings
  • Visit the ancient city of Dehir and its historic mosque
  • Explore the traditional village of Abadan and its scenic surroundings

Caspian Sea Region:

  • Visit the ancient city of Amlash and its historic mosque
  • Explore the traditional village of Rudsar and its scenic surroundings
  • Relax in the scenic Javaherdeh village and its beautiful beach
  • Visit the historic city of Tonekabon and its ancient fortress
  • Explore the traditional village of Abbasabad and its scenic surroundings
  • Visit the ancient city of Nowshahr and its historic mosque
  • Explore the traditional village of Chaloos and its scenic surroundings

Persian Gulf Region:

  • Explore the traditional village of Omidieh and its scenic surroundings
  • Visit the historic city of Ahvaz and its ancient ruins
  • Explore the traditional village of Shushtar and its scenic surroundings
  • Relax on the scenic beaches of the Persian Gulf
  • Visit the historic city of Khorramshahr and its ancient fortress
  • Explore the traditional village of Abadan and its scenic surroundings
  • Visit the ancient city of Mahshahr and its historic mosque

Food:

Iran is a country with an immense amount of ancient history, colorful culture, and delicious food. When talking about cuisine, Iran indeed is a paradise for food lovers. Be it stews with meats or flavorsome rice dishes, the rich variety of Iranian cuisine speaks volumes about its cultural diversity and geographical location.
Food plays a significant role in Iranian hospitality, and as one travels deeper into the country, he finds that mealtimes are usually considered occasions for cementing relationships with family and friends. A lot of this is rooted in “ta’arof,” or polite refusals, in Iranian culture, meaning quite succinctly that hosts will always insist on offering more food than what might be needed, while it is expected from guests to politely refuse before accepting it.
A bowl of rice accompanies most meals in Iranian cuisine, aside from a selection of herbs and spices. You will also realize that Iranians pride themselves on their rice cooking skills and the uniqueness in style adopted by every region in preparing the favorite staple. From the saffron-flavored rice of the north to the spicy rice dishes of the south, there is a type of rice to suit every palate.
Herbs are also among the favorite ingredients in Iranian cooking, and most the time, in most dishes, they are used fresh or in their dried varieties. You will realize that a lot of Iranians use a lot of their herbs, especially in most of the traditional dishes that contain parsley, cilantro, dill, and mint combined. Most of these fragrant herbs are combined with spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric to give typical Iranian flavors to dishes.
Most Iranian dishes contain meat, but the most common ones are lamb and chicken. They like to eat kebabs a lot, and they are usually marinated in a great amount of herbs and spices before being grilled. Next are the stews, especially the “ghormeh sabzi” or the thick herb and lamb stew and “fesenjan”, a thick chicken stew made with pomegranate juice and walnuts.
Yet, Iranian cuisine is not all about meat dishes; a number of delectable vegetarian and vegan variants are available that one could try. From crispy fried eggplants to flavorful lentil stews, Iranians really know how to elevate plant-based dishes into satisfying meals that are healthy yet delicious.
Apart from these variety of salty delights, Iranian cuisine has a range of sweet dishes to offer. You will be surprised to see how much Iranians like sweets and traditional desserts such as “baklava”, a flaky pastry with nuts and honey inside; “gaz”, which is a sweet candy including almonds; and “sholezard”, saffron rice pudding, are always in demand.
As you travel through Iran, you will discover that each of these regions has its unique cuisine. You may find in the north “kuku”, a crispy rice and herb cake, and “ash-e reshteh”, a hearty noodle soup. Traveling south, you find very spicy stews such as “khoresht-e bademjan”, rich eggplant stew, or “khoresht-e gheimeh”, hearty lamb stew.
You will find the rich chicken stew “fesenjan” made with pomegranate juice and walnuts and “baghali polo”, made with dill and lima beans, which give a pleasing flavor to rice in the center. And in the east, there are dishes like “sholezard”, a saffron-infused rice pudding, and “kashk-e bademjan”, a creamy eggplant dish.
One of the most iconic Iranian dishes is “tahdig “, a crispy fried rice cake, which normally comes with stews and kebabs. You will also notice that Iranians love bread, varieties like “lavash” and “sangak ” being just two of many.
Iranian cuisine is also quite well-known for its aromatic spices and herbs, like saffron, cardamom, and rosewater, which do add a magical touch to a lot of traditional dishes that are commonplace in the country’s cuisine. Along with its rich gastronomic culture, Iran also has delicious street food. There are different kinds of vendors selling crispy fried falafel, spicy kebabs, and sweet, sticky pastries such as “baklava” and “gaz”.
Iranian food generally marks the rich cultural heritage and geographical diversity of the country. With its emphasis on fresh herbs, fragrant spices, and hearty ingredients, Iranian cuisine surely will delight even the most fastidious of tastes. So, come and explore Iran’s flavors-your taste buds will be delighted!

Culture:

Iranian culture surely is a kaleidoscopic fabric interwoven with threads drawn from the historical, religious, artistic, architectural, and literary backgrounds. It sets at the crossing of the East and the West, and its culture has taken a peculiar shape due to the influences caused by Islam, Persian culture, and regional ones.
At the heart of Iranian culture lies something called “tarab, or the joy of living. This immediately comes across in the warm hospitality and welcoming nature of the Iranian people, who take immense joy in sharing their food, drink, and company with others. Mealtimes can be times of bonding with family and friends, as even the traditional Iranian meal comprising rice, herbs, and meat is a symbol of the culinary richness in this country.
Iranian culture also draws deep roots from its Islamic faith, which has played a profound role in shaping the country’s art, architecture, and literature. These beautiful mosques and madrasas dotting across the Iranian landscape serve as testimony to the country’s rich Islamic heritage, while the intricate calligraphy and tilework that adorn these buildings are representatives of the deep love for beauty and art by Iranian people.
But Iranian culture is not just about religion and tradition; rather, it is a culture deeply passionate about life and all its pleasures. From the most vibrant colors and patterns of traditional Iranian wear to the music and jollity that fill the streets during festivals and celebrations, Iranian culture is truly one that knows how to live.
And yet, despite all those delights and joys, Iranian culture is also a culture which has seen its fair share of trials and hardships. From the wars and invasions of old that have molded the country’s history to the modern-day sanctions and political tensions shaping the country’s economy and international relations today, Iran has always been a country that struggled to survive and thrive.
Through it all, the Iranian people have been a resilient and resourceful nation, finding ways to adapt and persevere through adversity. And it is that same resilience and resourcefulness that has enabled Iranian culture to continue to flower and evolve even in the most unconducive of times.
From the snow-capped Alborz mountain range to the sun-kissed deserts down south, the different topography of Iran has significantly shaped the country’s culture and identity. The cities that dotted the path of the old Silk Road, such as Samarkand and Bukhara, with their resplendent architecture and bustling bazaars, stand as reminders of a rich history when the land was at the very crossroads of trade and cultural exchange.
From ultramodern shopping malls to traditional tea houses that are filled with locals just to have some sociable moments with a glass of sweet tea, you can find anything among the busiest streets. Museums, galleries, and cultural centers abound within the city and showcase the very rich cultural heritage of Iran.
Among the most famous cultural facilities in Tehran is the Niavaran Cultural Center, hosting different cultural events and exhibitions within the year. The facility also hosts a beautiful palace that was built in the 19th century, housing a remarkable collection of Iranian art and architecture.
Attractive culturally, Tehran is also a city of radical natural beauty lying at the foot of mountains and forests. Many parks and gardens, such as famous Mellat Park, offer an escape from hustle and bustle.
But Tehran is not the only city in Iran worth visiting. Other cities, such as Isfahan, Shiraz, and Yazd, are just as steeped in history and culture, with a great deal of cultural attractions and activities available.
Take for instance Isfahan, which had been described as a very beautiful city with its picturesque bridges, palaces, and mosques. For one, this city’s famous Imam Square is among the largest city squares in the world and is surrounded by some of the most beautiful buildings in Iran.
As for Shiraz, it is the city of poets and gardens. It has always been blessed with fascinating natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. Not only does it boast many famous poets, including Hafez and Saadi, but it’s also very famous for its exquisite gardens, one of which is the Eram Garden.
While Yazd is the city of ancient history and culture, it also involves magnificent architecture and a huge amount of cultural activities within the city. Indeed, the city hosts many famous landmarks, including the famous Jameh Mosque of Yazd, which is among the oldest and most beautiful mosques in Iran.
Overall, Iran is a country wrapped in its historic and cultural perspectives, replete with various cultural sightseeing and activities that anyone would be indulging into while on a visit. From the beauty of its landscape to bustling cities with rich cultural heritage, Iran is a country which will surely fascinate and inspire even the most discerning traveler.

Accommodations:

Iran is a country of millennia of history, boisterous culture, and hospitality unparalleled to anywhere in the world. To a poor backpacker, Iran is heaven-it is a country offering some of the most unique, crazy, and amazing hostels in the world. And you know what? The best part? You don’t need to spend an arm and a leg to enjoy it.
Booking the cheapest option in Iran lands you in some real adventures. From dorms squashed into busy cities to family-run guesthouses nestled into the most out-of-the-way villages, the hostel situation in Iran can get quite wild and crazy. You may be able to make fellow travelers from every corner of the globe sit around a dinner table or over a cup of sweet tea and share your stories with whom to have a blast.
But it is not only the people that make Iran’s hostels special; it’s the experiences themselves. Every day in an Iranian hostel is a new and exciting adventure-from impromptu jam sessions with fellow travelers to out-of-the-blue dinner invitations with a local family. And at nightly prices that start from a low of $5, you can afford to be adventurous and make your try at new things.
Of course, navigating the hostel scene comes with its set of challenges: barriers in languages may be one of them; maybe sometimes some hostels do not have all those facilities that you may be used to. Well, isn’t that part of the adventure? Besides, Iranians are famous for their hospitality, so everywhere you go, find warm welcomes and a helping hand.
Each hostel you come to while traveling from city to city has its own unique character and charm. Some are tucked away down quiet alleyways, some in bustling bazaars, some with great views of the surrounding mountains, and some situated in cozy courtyards.
But it does not matter where you stay because you would find a community, camaraderie with other travelers. You will share a plate of ghormeh sabzi or swap stories of adventure; you would feel part of one big, crazy family.
Then there are the hostel owners themselves, some of the most interesting and hospitable people you’ll ever meet. From the gruff but lovable owner of a cramped dormitory in Tehran to the warm and welcoming proprietor of a cozy guesthouse in Yazd, each hostel owner has his or her story to be told and wisdom to be imparted.
The more of Iran’s hostels you see, the more the little things start to mean a lot to you: dappled sunlight filtering through the colored glass of a stained-glass window in some ancient caravanserai; laughter and song from the raucous courtyard of one of the busier hostels in Isfahan; freshly baked bread wafting from the kitchen of a family-run guesthouse in Shiraz.
It’s the moments like this that make traveling around Iran so unforgettable. And it’s moments like these which have you returning for more.
Well, if you’re a broke backpacker looking for an ultimate adventure, skip the classy hostels and book in the cheapest. We swear you won’t get disappointed. The hostels of Iran are an unforgettable crazy ride full of surprises and experiences one would hardly ever want to forget. And who knows-you might just find yourself extended your stay in this incredible country.
You could find a sense of community and camaraderie, generally hard to find somewhere else, in most hostels in Iran. Here, you would make friends with fellow travelers of all parts of the world, share stories and laughter around the dinner table or over a cup of sweet tea. You’ll learn about Iranian culture and history from the hostel owners and staff-always eager to share knowledge and passion for their country.
When you finally leave Iran, you take a bit of the country and people with you in heart and memories. Come for it-and book that cheap hostel bed.

Nightlife:

Being tagged as a conservative state, Iran is pretty fascinating and unexpected to house part of the culture that thrives at night. The city streets come alive the moment the sun sets, filling with music, laughter, and the infectious feeling of joy.
With the first twinkling of the stars across the night sky, Iranian youth pour out into the streets, eager to shake off their daytime cares and let loose. They gather in cloistered gardens, away from prying eyes, where they can dance, sing, and make merry with each other without the threat of social judgment. These spontaneous parties stand as a testament to the resiliency and resourcefulness of Iranian youth, who refuse to allow the strictures of a tight-laced society to get them down.
These cities, like Tehran and Isfahan, have even more pronounced nightlife. Everything, from underground raves to trendy bars and jamming clubs, is frenzied with energy and excitement. The music is loud; the lights flash, and the crowd is always up for it. It is indeed an exhilarating experience, and one which sends you back, gasping for breath, asking for more.
But then, Iranian nights have little to do with just loud music and dancing. They are also about connective bonding. In a country where socializing remains an integral part of daily life, nightlife offers an opportunity for people to come together, to share experiences. Whether it is a quiet evening of tea and conversation or a boisterous night of music and laughter, Iranians know how to make the most of their time together.
Of course, there are the more subdued features of Iranian nightlife, too: for example, the traditional tea houses where men congregate well into the night and have long, languorous smokes and chats. Quiet oases from hustle and bustle, places to reflect peacefully on the events of the day, engage in lively debates, or sit back to take in some live music or simply enjoy others’ companionship.
As you begin to experience Iranian nightlife, you’ll start to appreciate it through the little things that make each experience different. How the light reflects against tilework in a courtyard ancient and sends a kaleidoscope of colors across the floor. How laughter and music dance across from a rooftop nearby, as a group of friends have come together to look up at the stars. Smell freshly brewed tea wafting out of a street merchant, luring you over to sample his products.
These are moments that make nightlife in Iran so magical. They are moments, long after you are gone from this country, that will haunt and beckon you to return to this land of magic. So come and experience it for yourself – let the rhythm of Iran’s nightlife captivate your senses and leave you spellbound.

Backpacking Iran costs:

Daily Budget:

  • Accommodation: $5 (dorm) – $20 (private room)
  • Food: $1 (street food) – $3 (mid-range restaurant)
  • Transportation: $1 (bus ticket) – free (hitchhiking)
  • Attractions: $1 (historical sites) – free (natural wonders)
  • Other expenses: $5 (miscellaneous)

Total daily budget: $10 – $30

Weekly Budget:

  • Accommodation: $35 (dorm) – $140 (private room)
  • Food: $7 (street food) – $21 (mid-range restaurant)
  • Transportation: $7 (bus ticket) – free (hitchhiking)
  • Attractions: $7 (historical sites) – free (natural wonders)
  • Other expenses: $35 (miscellaneous)

Total weekly budget: $70 – $210

Conclusion:

During my travel in Iran, what really amazed me was the sense of hospitality and warmth among its people, beautiful natural views it offers, and how cultural heritage is seen basically in every detail here. Be it mountains covered with snow, or deserts with hot sand, noisy cities, and quiet villages, Iran is the country that would never allow expectations and would easily conquer one’s heart.
Broke backpacking in Iran might sound daunting at first, but it’s a feat that’s entirely possible to have an amazing adventure on a broke budget with just a little creativity and flexibility. From camping under the stars, staying with locals, to gorging on delicious street food-the lists go on and on for the intrepid traveler in Iran.
As I leave this magnificent country, I am aware that the recollections of the people, places, and experiences will remain with me a lifetime. If you are considering a travel to Iran, let me be a little encouraging-you will never regret it. Go with an open heart and mind, and you will realize that Iran is indeed one such place that will astonish, please, and inspire you in ways you never imagined.