🇮🇷 Iran | The Ultimate Shiraz Travel Guide (Save This One!)

If you could visit only one place in Iran, would you choose the ancient city of Isfahan? The capital Tehran? For me, the answer is clear: Shiraz. This underrated gem, packed with historic wonders, became the highlight of my Iranian journey. Here's why it should be yours too. 📚 About Shiraz If one city could embody Persia's soul, it’s Shiraz. As one of Iran’s oldest cities, it boasts: ✔ Concentrated historic sites (no long drives needed!) ✔ The awe-inspiring ruins of Persepolis ✔ Tombs of legendary Persian kings (straight out of history books) ✔ Pink-tinted mosques and poetic shrines In short: Skip the rest if you must—but don’t miss Shiraz. 🚞 Getting Around Within the city: Taxis are cheap (use Snapp for better rates). Day trips: For Persepolis, Naqsh-e Rostam (Persian Necropolis), Cyrus’ Tomb, and Maharloo Pink Lake, book a private car (~$20/day via hotels). 🏞️ Top Attractions 1️⃣ Persepolis 🏛️ The Achaemenid Empire’s ceremonial capital, built by Darius I. Its colossal pillars and intricate reliefs (think: "300" Spartans paying tribute) left me more awestruck than the Pyramids! 2️⃣ Tomb of Cyrus the Great ⚰️ The founder of Persia’s empire rests here. Look for ancient inscriptions on the ruins. 3️⃣ Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque) 🌈 Instagram’s favorite! Morning light transforms it into a kaleidoscope of pink and gold. Go by 7:30 AM to avoid crowds. 4️⃣ Naqsh-e Rostam (Persian Necropolis) 🗿 Four towering rock-cut tombs of kings like Xerxes I, with epic battle carvings below. 5️⃣ Shah Cheragh Shrine 💎 A dazzling mirror palace inside (passport required). Like stepping into a diamond! 6️⃣ Tomb of Hafez 📜 Iran’s "Persian" (Li Bai) is revered here. Locals recite his poetry at sunset—pure magic. Missed spot: The pink lake (next time!). 💡 Pro Tips Best time: Visit in spring (April-May) to avoid summer heat. Dress code: Women need headscarves; men avoid shorts. Cash: Bring USD/Euros (no ATMs for int’l cards). #IranTravel #Shiraz #Persepolis #CulturalTravel