A Guide to Iran's Best Bathhouses

Constructed during the Safavid Dynasty in the 16th century, Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse consists of two main parts: the dressing hall and bathing hall. Turquoise and gold tiles, plasterwork, bricks, and frescoes decorate the interior, and multiple gilded glass domes not only provide light but are another exciting feature, as a walk on the rooftop makes them appear as if space pods have landed in Kashan. Serving as a tourist attraction today, one can only imagine the kind of spa-like experience this gorgeous bathhouse once offered.
Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse, Alavi Street, Kashan

In keeping with Esfahan’s attention to symmetrical detail and colorful mosaics, Hammam-e Ali Gholi Agha is another of Iran’s beautiful bathhouses. Tiles typical of Esfahan’s grand mosques decorate the lower half of the walls, while the upper half is decorated mainly with Persian miniature frescoes. Mannequins demonstrate what each room was once used for. Although this bathhouse is located a bit out of the way, it’s will reward any visitor willing to make the trip.
Hammam-e Ali Gholi Agha, Bid Abadi St., Esfahan, +98 31 3337 5777

The mannequins in this bathhouse show how each room was used | © Saeed Majidi / Wikimedia Commons

What this site lacks in its exterior appearance, it makes up for in the interior. Ornate plasterwork, vaulted chambers, and twisted columns define Hammam-e Vakil, an 18th century Zand-era bathhouse. Shirazis are known for their laid-back personalities, and figures depict exactly how locals would have relaxed after taking a bath. Painted scenes from Persian mythology, an octagonal pool, and exquisite symmetry are among the other exciting features of this bathhouse.
Hammam-e Vakil, Taleghani Street, Lotf Ali Khan Zand Street, Shiraz,+98 71 3224 7646

Vakil Bathhouse in Shiraz | © Diego Delso / Flickr

Situated on the southern banks of the Aras River in East Azerbaijan Province, on the border with Armenia, sits the Kordasht bathhouse. Once serving as an exclusive bathhouse for royals of the Safavid Dynasty, this bathhouse eventually became public under the order of Agha Mohammad Khan of the Qajar era. Natural light via ceiling ducts shines down to illuminate the octagonal room containing the main pool. Set in a large garden with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, it’s easy to see why the royals chose this spot for their spa time.
Hammam-e Kordasht, East Azerbaijan Province

In the heart of old town Yazd is Hammam-e Khan, which has been converted into a restaurant and teahouse. The vaulted ceilings and archways, stained glass windows, and fading frescoes are an absolute delight. In spite of the chambers that echo with the sounds of silverware, plates, and conversation, the underground location of this bathhouse is a welcome and cool respite from the summer heat of this desert city.
Hammam-e- Khan, Ghiam Street, Meidane Khan, Yazd

Khan Bathhouse provides a cool place to relax during the summer heat | © Omid Izanloo / Wikimedia Commons