Iran has hot summers, with some of the hottest spots on earth located in its deserts. However, this shouldn’t deter you from traveling to Iran in summer. Known as a four-season country, Iran offers diverse climates throughout the year, making it an ideal destination at any time. You can even find snow in some parts of Iran during the hottest summer days. In this post, we’ll introduce the “Top 10 Summer Destinations in Iran,” highlighting the best places to visit and enjoy your summer vacation.
Traveling to Iran in Summer
Traveling to Iran in summer is quite manageable, especially when visiting main tourist cities like Tehran, Shiraz, Mashhad, and Isfahan, where the heat is more tolerable. For those who can’t stand high temperatures, it’s advisable to avoid the southern regions and central deserts during this season. Despite the heat, summer travel in Iran has its advantages:
- Prices are usually lower than during peak seasons, making it more budget-friendly.
- It’s an ideal time for mountain climbing or hiking, particularly evening climbs on Damavand.
- The reduced number of tourists means fewer crowds at popular sites, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate exploration of historical and cultural landmarks.
- Longer daylight hours provide more time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer Weather in Iran
Iran experiences diverse weather patterns in summer, ranging from scorching heat to pleasantly cool climates. The southern regions, including cities like Ahwaz, Bandar Bushehr, and Bandar-e Abbas, often face extremely high temperatures, soaring to around 40-50°C (104-122°F), making them less ideal for summer travel. Conversely, northern areas and higher altitudes, such as the Alborz and Zagros mountain ranges, offer cooler and more comfortable conditions, typically ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). Central desert cities like Kerman and Yazd can be very hot, with temperatures around 35-45°C (95-113°F), but some areas still provide a refreshing escape. Overall, despite the heat, Iran’s varied geography ensures there are plenty of places to enjoy a summer vacation.
Top 10 Summer Destinations In Iran
If you are planning to visit Iran in summer, it’s important to know about the destinations that are perfect for this season. Mountainous areas, like the Alborz and Zagros Mountain Ranges and their surrounding hillsides, are ideal for summer trips. These spots are mostly located in the north, west, and northwest regions of Iran, in provinces such as Azarbayjan Sharghi, Ardebil, Mazandaran, Gilan, and Hamedan. We’ve selected some of the top tourist sites in these provinces to share with you. While most of these destinations are natural wonders, they also hold historical significance. Stay with us to explore these refreshing summer escapes!
Masuleh Village (Gilan Province)
Nestled in the Alborz Mountains, Masuleh Village is renowned for its unique stepped architecture where the roof of one house serves as the courtyard for another. For those traveling to Iran in summer, the cool, misty climate of Masuleh provides a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Visitors can enjoy strolling through narrow alleys, exploring local shops, and experiencing traditional Gilan culture amidst lush green landscapes.
Kandovan (East Azarbayjan Province)
Kandovan, often referred to as Iran’s Cappadocia, is famous for its ancient troglodyte homes carved into volcanic rocks. As one of the unique summer destinations in Iran, this village offers a cool retreat during the summer months. The natural air conditioning within the rock homes keeps them pleasantly cool. Visitors can explore the intriguing rock formations, hike in the surrounding mountains, and experience the local hospitality.
Sarein (Ardebil Province)
Sarein is a small town renowned for its therapeutic hot springs, which attract visitors seeking relaxation and wellness. Located in the foothills of Sabalan Mountain, Sarein enjoys a mild summer climate, making it an ideal destination for those traveling to Iran in summer and looking to escape the heat. The town offers a variety of spa facilities, beautiful landscapes, and the chance to taste the local honey and dairy products.
Javaher Deh (Mazandaran Province)
Situated near the city of Ramsar in Mazandaran Province, Javaher Deh, meaning “Jewel Village,” is a picturesque mountain village surrounded by dense forests and lush meadows. Its elevated position provides a cool and pleasant climate during the summer, making it one of the top summer destinations in Iran. Visitors can enjoy hiking, exploring natural springs, and experiencing the serene beauty of the Caspian Hyrcanian mixed forests.
Alasht (Mazandaran Province)
Alasht, located in Mazandaran Province, is a charming mountain village known for its cool summer weather and stunning vistas. For those traveling to Iran in summer, Alasht offers a refreshing escape. The village is famous as the birthplace of Reza Shah Pahlavi, the founder of the Pahlavi dynasty. Visitors can enjoy trekking through the scenic trails, visiting the local museum, and relaxing in the tranquil environment.
Masal (Gilan Province)
Masal, in Gilan Province, offers breathtaking landscapes with its rolling hills, dense forests, and cool rivers. As one of the top summer destinations in Iran, this region is perfect for summer travelers seeking nature and adventure. Popular activities include hiking, camping, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna. The cool, fresh air of Masal provides a pleasant contrast to the summer heat found in other parts of Iran.
Deilaman (Gilan Province)
Deilaman, located in Gilan Province, is a mountainous region known for its cool climate, green pastures, and historical significance. For those traveling to Iran in summer, Deilaman offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities for hiking, visiting ancient ruins, and enjoying traditional Gilan cuisine. Deilaman’s natural beauty and cultural heritage make it a perfect summer destination.
Kaleybar (East-Azerbaijan)
Kaleybar, located in East Azerbaijan Province, is a charming town known for its lush landscapes and cool summer climate, making it one of the top summer destinations in Iran. The town is most famous for Babak Castle, one of the most impressive and historically significant castles in Iran. Perched high on a mountain, Babak Castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and valleys. The hike to the castle is a popular activity for visitors, providing both a challenging adventure and a rewarding glimpse into Iran’s rich history.
Alamut Valley (Qazvin Province)
Alamut Valley is home to the historic Alamut Castle, famously associated with the Assassins (Nizari Ismailis). The valley offers stunning mountain scenery, cool summer temperatures, and a rich history. Hiking to the castle ruins, exploring the dramatic landscapes, and learning about the region’s fascinating past make Alamut Valley a compelling choice for a summer vacation in Iran.
Hamedan (Hamedan Province)
Hamedan, one of Iran’s oldest cities, is rich in history and culture. The city enjoys a mild summer climate, making it a pleasant destination for summer travel in Iran. Key attractions include the Avicenna Mausoleum, Ganjnameh inscriptions, and the Tomb of Esther and Mordechai. Hamedan’s blend of historical sites and natural beauty provides a diverse and enjoyable experience.
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