The Best Things To Do For Free In Tehran

Nicknamed the City of Museums, Tehran can keep a person pretty busy. But between palaces, museums, breaks for delicious Persian food and cool drinks, you’ll soon find that it can be a pricey city. Not to fret though because we’ve got the best things you can do to explore the capital city for free!

Conquer Vali Asr Street

At nearly 12 miles (19 km) long, Valiasr is said to be the longest street in the Middle East. It runs north to south, dividing Tehran into east and west. Unlike other parts of town, the sidewalks are quite wide making it ideal for a stroll. Start at Rah Ahan Square in the south and head north to Tajrish Square to pass Saee Park, Mellat Park, City Theater, and Ferdows Garden, some of the best sites and places to rest. Snap shots of the street sculptures and art projects along the way. If you’re not feeling up to walking the entire way, consider taking the bus.

Brush up on some culture at Iranian Artists’ Forum

The Iranian Artists’ Forum is a great place to check out, whether you’re into art or not. A popular hangout for university students, the artsy crowd, and cats who call it home, this locale offers a wonderful sense of contemporary art in Iran. Stroll through the exhibition, before relaxing on a shady bench outside and perhaps meeting and chatting with a few friendly folk.
Iranian Artist’s Forum, Taleghani Ave N Mousavi, Tehran, Iran, +98 21 8831 0457

Iranian Artists’ Forum is a haven for street cats

1. Get lost in the Grand Bazaar

Market, Bazaar

No trip to Tehran is complete without a run through the Grand Bazaar. Just footsteps from Golestan Palace, it’s the perfect place to witness the hustle and bustle of the buying and selling of goods. The best time to visit is in the morning when business is up and running, but not so frantic so as to be daunting. Get lost in the maze of alleys, discover the tiniest teahouse in Tehran, and snap shots of the photogenic carpets, nuts, and spice bazaars.

Discover architectural treasures

Architecture enthusiasts will love southern Tehran’s impressive masterpieces. Start at Bagh-e Melli, or National Garden, a historical and government compound in Tehran. During the Qajar era, it served as a military shooting range and now houses such buildings as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a couple of museums, but it’s the grand gate with its mosaic tiles that’s the highlight. Head east toward Nasser Khosrow Street where you’ll find Saraye Roshan, with its mix of medieval European and Persian styles, and the twin peaks and clock tower of Shams-ol-Emareh.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs building is reminiscent of Persepolis

Keep your eyes out for street art

Who doesn’t love a little street art? And Tehran’s got some great stencils and murals around town that change according to current events. Keep your eyes peeled around Valiasr Street and the back streets around Tarjish Square, which are hot spots, as are the midtown and southern parts of the city.