“Iran might not be the first country that comes to mind when you’re planning your next trip, but it might be the one that surprises the most.”
Wrote Jelte, who was stayed with us for four days and he generously shared his travel experience with us.
“…. From metropolitan cities to deserts, green valleys and magnificent architecture, add excellent food and the friendliest people you’ll ever meet to the mix, and Iran has it all. While it’s by no means a mainstream destination and backpacking Iran requires a bit of prepping, that’s the charm of it all. It really is back to basic, and discovering the undiscovered.”
He wrote shortly what to do and where to stay in Isfahan, and you have the answer already! 😉
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Isfahan
4 days
Isfahan is half the world, as they say. Isfahan was the reason I wanted to go to Iran. I had read about the bazaars, the bridges and the mosques, and in my head, it had risen to mythical proportions. It did not disappoint! It’s a fairytale-like place to be. I spent 4 days there, there is so much to see, so much to eat and so much to buy!
Naqsh-e Jahan Square (Imam square) is one of the biggest squares in the world. It’s another UNESCO site, and flanked on all 4 sides. Masjid-e Shah Mosque in the in the south, Ali Qapu palace in the west, Sheikh Lotfallah Mosque in the east and the grand bazaar in the north. The sun rises over Lotfallah mosque in the morning and is truly a sight to see. It’s easy to spend a full day here, visit both mosques and see how different they are, talk to shop vendors who are so happy to make conversation, have tea or do as the Iranians do, have a picknick in the grass.
In the evening, go see Khajoo bridge. It’s beautifully lit and also serves as a meeting place for men who sing together. You might be in luck!
Isfahan has a rather contemporary Armenian Quarter. Main draw here is Vank church, which is covered in frescos and very, very golden. There’s some hipster cafe’s in this area, as well as museums.
My favorite thing to do though, was visit Jameh Mosque in the morning, which was close to my hostel, and from there enter the Grand Bazaar that was still closed, and walk all the way to Naqsh-e Jahan square through the empty corridors. Around noon, the light will shine through the holes in the roof and play with the shadows
Where to stay
I stayed at Howzak House, which they call a boutique hostel. There are a few rooms around a little courtyard, and shared bathrooms. The owners are incredibly nice and will show you around the neighborhood!”
Read more about his article and let us know how was your backpacking experiences in the comments. 🙂
11/09/2020
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