Independent travel and view of the city of Yazd! History of Yazd 1. The oldest sources (II-I thousand BC) It i...
1. The oldest sources (II-I thousand BC)
It is believed that settlements on the site of modern Yazd existed in the second millennium BC. e. Archaeological evidence points to small oasis communities that survived thanks to underground water channels - ropes (kariza), the technology of which originated in Iran.
The name “Yezd” comes from the ancient Persian word “Yazata”, meaning “deity”, “sacred place”. Even then, the region had religious significance.
2. The Age of the Achaemenids (VI-IV centuries BC)
During the Achaemenid Empire (Cyrus the Great, Darius I), Yazd was not a capital, but played an important role as a fortified point on the trade routes connecting Pars, Media and the eastern provinces.
Features of the period:
development of irrigation systems,
formation of Zoroastrian communities,
strengthening the religious function of the region.
Zoroastrianism became the dominant faith, and Yazd became one of its spiritual centers.
3. Parthian and Sassanid periods (III century BC - VII century AD)
Parthian
Yazd continued to develop as a regional hub, remaining relatively autonomous due to its remoteness from capitals.
Sassanids
Under the Sassanid Empire, Yazd acquires special importance:
The city becomes a refuge for Zoroastrians.
Fire temples are being built here, including prototypes of future temples with eternal fire.
The administrative role of the city is increasing.
The Sassanids actively supported Zoroastrianism, and Yazd was considered one of the "pure" religious cities.
4. Arab conquest and early Islam (VII-X centuries)
After the Arab conquest of Iran in the seventh century:
Yazd surrendered without serious resistance.
Zoroastrians were allowed to live in the city upon payment of jizya.
Islam gradually spread, but religious tolerance persisted.
It was during this period that Yazd became a refuge for Zoroastrians fleeing from other regions. Due to this, the city is still considered the main center of Zoroastrianism in Iran.
5. Medieval flourishing (XI-XIV centuries)
Seljuks and Atabecs
Yazd is becoming a thriving city:
Mosques, madrassas, caravanserai are being built,
The silk and textile trade is growing.
A unique architecture of raw brick is formed.
Mongol period
In the thirteenth century, Yazd escaped the destruction characteristic of the Mongol invasions by:
remoteness,
diplomacy of local rulers.
This allowed us to preserve the ancient city structure.
6. The Age of Timurids and Safavids (XV-XVIII centuries)
Timurids
The city is becoming an important cultural center:
the flowering of calligraphy and poetry,
Active construction of domes and minarets.
Safavids
Under Safavid Yazd:
It becomes the center of Shiite Islam.
preserve the Zoroastrian communities,
It strengthens the economy through trade with India and Central Asia.
During this period, the famous Friday mosque Yazda in its current form was formed.
7. Qajar period (XVIII-XIX centuries)
Yazd remains an important regional hub:
handicraft production is actively developing,
The city is known for fabrics, sweets, copper products,
There are traditional badgiri (wind towers) that have become a symbol of the city.
Despite Iran’s political decline, Yazd remains stable.
8. XX century and modernity
Pahlavi Period
modernization of infrastructure,
partial loss of traditional buildings,
The beginning of the protection of historic quarters.
After the Islamic Revolution
strengthening the role of religious institutions,
preservation of the Zoroastrian heritage,
tourism development.
In 2017, the historic center of Yazda was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as:
A unique example of a city adapted to desert life.
9. The significance of Yazda today
Today, Yazd is:
living museum of ancient Persian culture,
The main center of Zoroastrianism in Iran,
an example of sustainable architecture,
A symbol of religious and cultural continuity.
The Heart of Zoroastrian Civilization
Yazd is the spiritual capital of Zoroastrianism, one of the oldest religions in the world. Here you can:
Visit the Temple of Fire, where the sacred flame has been burning for over 1,500 years.
See the Towers of Silence - mysterious burial structures on the hills;
Get to know the living culture of Zoroastrians, not the museum reconstruction.
This is a rare opportunity to touch the traditions that have remained almost unchanged since ancient Persia.
Oriental fairy tale without crowds of tourists
Yazd is ideal for those looking for an authentic East:
Friday’s Yazda Mosque with the tallest minarets in Iran impresses with the grace of the mosaic.
Cozy caravanserai, turned into hotels and cafes;
narrow labyrinths of streets, where it is easy to get lost - and this is the pleasure.
Unlike more famous cities, you won’t feel the pressure of mass tourism.
Taste of Yazda.
Yazd is known for its cuisine and sweets:
Gotaab - delicate cakes with nuts and cardamom;
bahlava in the yezdish way;
Saffron and pink syrups;
Traditional tea on the roofs of old houses.
Food here is part of a cultural experience, not just a meal.
Desert nearby
Just a few kilometers from the city begins a real desert:
jeep and camel safaris,
sleeping under the stars,
Sunrises and sunsets that cannot be forgotten.
Yazd is one of the best cities in Iran for exploring desert nature.
City of tranquility and hospitality
Travelers often note:
The sincere hospitality of the locals,
a sense of security,
quiet pace of life,
cleanliness and order.
It’s nice to walk here even without a plan – the city guides you.
1. Luxury and comfortable hotels (Mid-Range & Premium)
For those who want to relax with maximum comfort, swimming pool, delicious breakfast and service.
Comfort and quality
Parsian Safaiyeh Hotel is one of the most popular hotels in the city with good reviews, a restaurant and comfortable rooms. A great choice for a couple or a family holiday.
Dad Hotel is a stylish hotel with the atmosphere of a traditional Persian house, known for its design and quality of service. Great for culturally oriented travelers.
Moshir al-Mamalek Garden Hotel is a beautiful hotel with a green garden and a cozy atmosphere. Ideal for relaxing after walking around the old town.
Giva Hotel is a boutique hotel with a very high rating, stylish interior and attentive staff.
Laleh Hotel is a classic city hotel with comfortable rooms.
Tip: Many of these hotels offer free breakfast and a convenient location near the main historic center.
2. Traditional houses and boutique hotels (with an atmosphere of history)
Transmitting the spirit of Yazda through architecture and style are great options for those who value authenticity.
Hooman Boutique Hotel is a cozy boutique hotel in traditional style, with the atmosphere of an ancient Persian house.
Ketrova Boutique Hotel and Safikhani Boutique Hotel are stylish traditional houses with original design.
The Pars Traditional Hotel and Narenjestan Traditional House are traditional guesthouses, often with courtyards and recreational facilities.
Rose Traditional Hotel is another atmospheric option in the old quarter.
Advantages: proximity to historical streets, mosques and museums, a sense of life in ancient Yazd.
3. Budget hotels, hostels and guest houses
Ideal for tourists on a limited budget, groups and independent travelers.
Hostels (the most economical option)
Good Feeling Hostel Yazd is a great option with high scores.
Oasis Hostel is a budget, comfortable and well-located hostel.
Jungle Hotel is similar to a hostel, but is often considered a slightly more “home” option.
Yazd Star Hostel, Shahdad Hostel, Yazd Friendly Hotel are convenient options at attractive prices.
Cheap hostel and Backpack Hostel are even more budget-friendly hostels suitable for overnight stays or short stays.
Budget hotels and guest houses
Yazd Kohan Hotel is a cozy hotel in traditional style at an affordable price.
Fazeli Hotel, Yazd Traditional Hotel - simple and inexpensive options for overnight stays.
1. Yazda Historic Center (UNESCO)
What is it: a labyrinth of narrow streets of clay, old houses with badgir, courtyards, roofs with panoramas of the desert.
Why it’s worth it: This is the “soul” of the city – a walk here is already a landmark.
Transport:
on foot (best option);
taxi – to any point of the old city in 5-10 minutes from the center.
District: Fahadan/Old Town
2. Friday Mosque of Yazda (Masjid-e Jameh)
The main icon of the city is the two highest minarets in Iran (52 m), a turquoise mosaic, a portal of the XIV century.
Transport:
on foot from the old town;
A taxi (any driver knows the location)
Usually combined with a walk in the old city.
3. Temple of Fire (Atashkadeh)
Sacred flame, which, according to legend, burned for more than 1500 years. The most important place of Zoroastrian religion.
Transport:
Taxi - 5-10 minutes from the old city;
Walk - about 25-30 minutes.
Located in a modern area, easily accessible.
4. Towers of Silence (Dahme)
Mysterious Zoroastrian funerary structures on the hills outside the city.
Transport:
taxi or excursion only;
15-20 minutes from downtown.
It is better to visit in the morning or closer to sunset (less heat, beautiful light).
5. Badghir and Dolat Abad House
Dolat Abad Garden is a UNESCO site with the highest badgir in the world (33 m).
Transport:
taxi - 10 minutes;
Walk - about 30-35 minutes.
A great place to relax after a walk.
6. Amir Chahmak Complex
The monumental symmetrical square is especially beautiful in the evening when illuminated.
Transport:
on foot from the center;
taxi, 5 minutes.
Popular photo spot.
7. Yazda Museums
Water Museum - tells about the rope system;
Lari House is a traditional merchant mansion;
Ethnographic museums in the old town.
Transport:
on foot (all museums are compact).
8. The desert near Yazd
Excursions to the sand dunes, the starry sky and desert villages (for example, Chak-Chak or the vicinity of Maybod).
Transport:
excursion transfer;
rented taxi/car.
30-60 minutes one way.
Transport accessibility of Yazda
Airport
Yazd Shahid Sadooghi Airport
taxi to the center: ~15 minutes
Train
direct trains from Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz
Railway station - 10-15 minutes by taxi from the center
Buses.
developed network of intercity buses
Bus station - 10-20 minutes from the old town
Urban transport
Taxi is the main mode of transportation;
inexpensive and affordable;
There are public buses, but tourists rarely use them.
Nowruz – Persian New Year (early spring)
around March 20-21
This is the main national holiday of Iran - the meeting of the new year and spring. It is accompanied by festive mood, family feasts, street decorations, music and traditional Haft-sin rituals. In Yazd, the atmosphere is particularly beautiful: flowers, music, festive bazaars and decorated neighborhoods.
Chaharshanbe Suri - Festival of Lights
last Wednesday before Nowruz (usually in March)
It's an ancient fiery festival - people jump over the fire, sing and have fun in the run-up to the New Year. In Yazda, the celebration is active - traditions are especially alive in small neighborhoods.
Sadeh - Festival of Light
January 30
This is a Zoroastrian winter festival, where large bonfires are arranged, singing and telling stories. A good opportunity to get acquainted with the ancient heritage of Zoroastrianism.
Ashura and Muharram – Islamic religious ceremonies
change according to the lunar calendar (usually late summer/autumn)
These are the most important Shiite events related to the memory of the martyrdom of Imam Hussein. In Yazd they are very expressive: processions, prayers, songs and collective gatherings on the streets and at mosques.
These activities have a deep religious meaning and tourists are encouraged to participate with respect.
Yazd International Silk Road Festival
October (exact dates may change)
Cultural festival related to the history of the Great Silk Road. It includes traditional crafts, music, exhibitions and local cuisine. A great opportunity to get acquainted with the creativity and crafts of the region.
Zoroastrian Fire Festivals
In Yazda, as the center of Zoroastrian culture, there are various festivals dedicated to fire and purification:
Jashn-e Azargan – Fire Festival in November
New Year’s Day celebrations at the lights on rooftops. These events are less commercialized and are often held in Fire Temples.
Spring (March – May) – Best Season
Air temperature:
March: +15...+22 °C
April: +20...+28 °C
May: +25...+35 °C
At night: +10... +18 °C
Precipitation: minimum
Humidity: Very low (comfortable)
Why is it perfect?
In May, the approach of the heat is already felt - it is better to plan excursions for the morning and evening.
Summer (June – August) – Very Hot
Air temperature:
June: +35... +40 °C
July: +38 ... +43 °C
August: +36... +41 °C
At night: +25... +30 °C
Precipitation: virtually zero
Sun: Very active
Real sensations
It's hard outside during the day
City life shifts to early morning and evening
Saving the shadow, badgir and traditional architecture
When summer might come
Definitely: headdress, water, sun cream.
Autumn (September – November) – Very Good Season
Air temperature:
September: +30...+35 °C
October: +22... +30 °C
November: +15...+22 °C
At night: +10 ... +20 ° Rainfall: extremely rare
Why Travelers Love Autumn
October is one of the best months for Yazd.
Winter (December – February) – Cool but pleasant
Air temperature:
afternoon: +8...+15 °C
at night: 0...+5 °C (sometimes mild frosts are possible)
Precipitation: very rare
Snow: almost never happens
Features of winter
It’s cold at night and in the morning – warm clothes are needed.
Traditional homes can be cool.
Language of communication
Main language
The official and everyday language is Persian (Farsi).
Yazd uses:
standard Farsi
local dialect (almost invisible to tourists)
English
In hotels, hostels and tourist places basic English is common
The older generation does not speak English more often.
Even a few words in Farsi elicit a genuine smile and respect.
Useful phrases:
salam - hello
merci -- thank you.
lotfan, please
bale/na - yes/no
khoobam - good.
- How are you?
Communication and etiquette
Accepted
courtesy
elderlyness
patience and goodwill
hospitality (tea, sweets, help)
taaroph
It's an important part of culture:
They can offer you something for free.
politely refused 1-2 times
If the sentence is repeated, they really mean it.
This is not a deception, but a form of politeness.
Dress
For women.
scarf on the head in public places
shoulders and arms
length of clothing at least to the knees
loose-fitting
In tourist areas, the requirements are milder, but the rule applies everywhere.
For men.
pants
t-shirts
Shorts are undesirable outside tourist areas
Religion and behaviour
In mosques and religious places
slip off
silence
dress modestly
pray
ask permission before filming people
In Yazda, respect for Zoroastrian shrines is especially important. In the temple of fire should be calm and quiet.
Photos and videos
You can take pictures.
architecture
streets
sights
Undesirable or prohibited:
photograph military and police
rent out
Take close-up pictures of people without permission, especially women
Laws that are important to know
Alcohol
totally forbidden
cannot be imported, purchased or used
Drugs.
severe punishment
Even small amounts are considered a serious crime. n
Public conduct
Kissing and hugging on the street are not welcome.
Holding hands is acceptable for couples
LGBTQ
Open expression of orientation is prohibited by law
You can travel, but it is important to keep your privacy.
Time and rhythm of life
Friday
Shops can close during the day and work in the evening.
rhythm
During Ramadan:
During the day it is not customary to eat and drink outside.
In the evening, the city comes alive, cafes and bazaars open
1. Greetings and courtesy
Salam - salam - hello.
ال ال شما عور استة - salam, hale shoma four ast? - Hello, how are you?
♥وبم• ممنون - hubam, mamnyn - well, thank you.
ممنون - Mammon - thank you.
Thank you very much, heli mamnon.
لا - Lotfan - please
♥واهش مي نم - hahesh mikonam - nothing for / please
I'm sorry, I'm sorry.
عداحاف - movea hafez - goodbye
Good day, good day, good day.
Good night, and good night.
2. Basic communication
- Ballé, yes.
No, no, no.
Shayad, perhaps.
I'm not sure what I'm talking about.
I don't understand namfamam.
هسته تر لحفا - aheste tar lotphan - slow down, please
Do you speak English, do you speak English?
A little bit.
3. Shop and market.
How much does it cost? - How much does it cost?
است is very expensive.
Is it arzan-tar meshavad? - Could it be cheaper?
Is there a discount?
I'm just looking at it.
مي عرم - miharam - beru
I don't want to be a namhaham.
4. Cafe and restaurant
منو لحفا - meý Lotfan - menu, please
What's that? What's that?
Quote of the Day: Delicious.
The food was very good, the food was very good.
صورتحساب لحفا - Suratabsab Lotfan - bill, please
ب - ab - water
- Tea is tea.
^ "Peace be upon you, without meat".
5. Taxis and transport
تا سي - Taxi - taxi
Come here, come here, come here.
Tawaghof Conid - stop here
How much will it cost? - How much will it cost?
ران است - geran ast - expensive
ارقان تر لحفا - Arzan-tar Lotfan - cheaper, please
6. In a hotel or hostel
Is there a room available for you?
شب - yek shab - one night
لقد - kalid - key
Do you have any Wi-Fi?
Is breakfast included?
7. Emergency situations
- Help me! - Help me!
دкتر - Doctor - doctor
لس - police - police
Where's the hospital?
Gom Shodam - I'm lost.
8. An example of a short dialogue
- Salam, hale shoma four ast? - Hello, how are you?
- عوبم منون. شماة (hubam, mam? shoma?) - All right, thanks. And you?
- Thank you, too. - Thank you.
Food and drink
1. Sweets.
Yazd is famous for its traditional sweets, which can be brought as gifts or souvenirs:
Baghlava - layered cakes with nuts and honey;
Qottab - cakes with almonds and sugar, fried in oil;
Pashmak - Iranian sugar marshmallow, similar to "sugar threads";
Shirini Yazdi - local small cookies with cardamom, almonds or pistachios.
2. Drinks.
Shiraz tea - herbal, with cardamom and saffron;
Mint or pink syrup (Golab) – added to water or tea
The traditional yogurt drink (Doogh) is a salty yogurt drink refreshing in the heat.
3. Main courses
Khoresht-e fesenjan - stewed meat with nuts and pomegranate sauce;
Tahchin - rice with yogurt and chicken, baked to a golden crust;
Kuku Sabzi is a green omelet with herbs, healthy and light.
Tip: Sweets and spices are easy to pack in a suitcase and are often sold in beautiful gift boxes.
Medicinal and useful remedies
Yazd is known for traditional herbal and natural remedies:
Cardamom, saffron, rose water (Golab) - used in cooking and cosmetics, improve mood and digestion;
Herbal fees and teas - to strengthen immunity, improve sleep and digestion;
Honey and nuts - a local product, natural and high quality;
Oils (for example, argan or sesame) - for cosmetic and therapeutic purposes.
Tip: Buy funds from certified shops or pharmacies to avoid counterfeiting.
Souvenirs and crafts
Yazd is the center of Persian artisan art. Popular mementos:
Ceramics and pottery - painted, handmade;
Traditional carpets and gabbas are small rugs that are convenient to bring home.
Copper products - bowls, kettles, decorative objects;
Traditional jewelry and silver, especially with ornaments of Zoroastrian or Persian culture
Incense and incense - aromatic sticks and oils;
Miniature figures of badgirs (wind towers) are the symbol of Yazd.
Tip: You can bargain in old bazaars, but remember the rules of etiquette.
Safety of rest
Yazd is considered one of the safest cities in Iran for tourists.
Crime on the streets is low and thefts and robberies are rare.
The locals are friendly and often help tourists.
At night, the old town is illuminated, but it is recommended to use the usual caution: do not walk in completely empty and narrow alleys late at night.
Always keep valuables and documents with you.
Advice:
Use only official taxis or apps.
Watch out for weather conditions in summer – extreme temperatures and dry air are possible.
Documents required
Passport - valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
Visa – Most tourists must apply for a tourist visa in advance or an electronic visa (E-Visa).
Tickets round-trip or confirmation of continued travel.
Hotel reservations may be needed at the border.
In addition, it is useful to have:
Copies of passport and visa (in case of loss of originals);
electronic copies of documents.
Health insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for safe travel, covering emergency medical care, hospitalization and repatriation.
It is recommended to choose insurance that covers injuries, illnesses, allergies and possible complications due to heat.
It is better to have insurance for the entire stay.
Emergency services
Tip: Keep numbers on your phone and on paper, as well as the address of the hotel and the nearest hospital.
Mobile communications
All major Iranian operators are available in Yazd: Irancell, Hamrah Aval (MCI), Rightel.
It is convenient for tourists to buy a SIM card of a local operator to use the Internet and calls.
At the airport and some hotels, prepaid SIM cards are sold.
Connection is usually fast, coverage is good in the city and on tourist routes.
Tip: Many apps running through VPNs are needed for communication and navigation.
Term of stay
A tourist visa usually allows you to stay in Iran for up to 30 days without having to leave the country.
If necessary, the period can be extended through the immigration service, but this must be done in advance.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
