What to do in Yazd, Iran? Your Atractions Guide in Yazd

Overview of Yazd

Yazd is a city in central Iran, known for its rich history, unique architecture, and religious diversity. With its numerous historical buildings and museums, it’s a popular destination for tourists seeking to learn more about Iran’s ancient heritage. Yazd is also the center of Zoroastrianism in Iran, and many visitors come to see the Fire Temple and Zoroastrian Towers of Silence.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Yazd

1. The Yazd Old Town

The historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its winding alleyways, adobe buildings, and traditional wind towers. Take a walk through the streets and explore the bazaar, mosques, and museums along the way.

2. Amir Chakhmaq Complex

This stunning complex includes a mosque, a bathhouse, and a bazaar. The highlight is the massive, symmetrical façade of the mosque, which is particularly beautiful at night when it’s illuminated.

3. Zoroastrian Towers of Silence

Located on a hill outside Yazd, these circular structures used to be open-air burials grounds for Zoroastrians. Visitors can learn about the ancient burial customs and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

4. Jameh Mosque of Yazd

This mosque is one of the oldest and most beautiful in Iran, with exquisite tile work, frescoes, and a minaret that offers stunning views of the surrounding desert.

5. Yazd Water Museum

This fascinating museum teaches visitors about Yazd’s sophisticated system of underground aqueducts and cisterns, which have helped the city survive in the arid desert climate for centuries.

6. Dowlat Abad Garden

This peaceful garden is home to the tallest traditional wind tower in Iran, as well as a lovely reflecting pool and lush trees and flowers.

7. Alexander’s Prison

This eerie underground prison is rumored to have been used by Alexander the Great, but in reality, it was built much later to house dangerous criminals. Visitors can tour the cells and learn about the prison’s gory history.

8. Chak Chak Village

Located in the nearby mountains, this tiny Zoroastrian village is the site of the annual pilgrimage to the Shrine of Pir-e Sabz, where legend has it that the ancient Persian princess Nikbanou was sheltered by the mountain.

9. Yazd Atash Behram

This Zoroastrian fire temple is one of the nine Atash Behrams (highest grade of Zoroastrian fire temples) in the world. Visitors can see the sacred fire burning continuously and learn about Zoroastrianism.

10. Kharanaq village

This abandoned village is located on the Silk Road and dates back over 1000 years. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient buildings, including a caravanserai, mosque, and qanat (underground water channel).

5 Places to Avoid in Yazd

1. Meybod

This town near Yazd has a reputation for being a tourist trap, with overpriced souvenirs and pushy vendors.

2. Shahid Ayatollah Dastgheib International Airport

This airport is small and outdated, with limited international flights and poor facilities.

3. Yazd Dumpsite

This landfill site is located near the city center and can generate strong odors, particularly during hot weather.

4. Abandoned buildings in the city center

Some of the deserted buildings in the historic center may not be safe to explore due to their age and condition.

5. Unlicensed tour guides

Avoid hiring unlicensed guides, as they may not have the proper knowledge or experience to provide a good tour experience.

Overview about the City