Esfahan

Esfahan is a living museum of traditional culture and one of Iran's most popular tourist destinations. The antique Islamic structures, as well as the Persian gardens, give this city a lovely appearance. The picture-postcard bridges are the main attraction in this Iranian location. The splendid city of Esfahan is definitely one of the most gorgeous in all of Iran, gilded with the wealth of more monarchs, sultans, and Muslim caliphs than you can shake a cobalt-blue porcelain pitcher from a Zagros Mountain town at.

The huge Naqsh-e Jahan Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site encircled by ceramic-fronted mosques and beautiful Safavid palaces, is the beating heart of Esfahan. Wherever you go, trickling fountains give way to tree-lined avenues, famed madrassahs rise from the streets, and arabesque souks brim with multi-colored spice stacks and tassel-fringed oriental carpets.

• Tourist Attractions: Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Imam (Shah) Mosque, Ali Qapu Palace, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque
• Places to stay: Abbasi Hotel, Iran Hotel, Piroozy Hotel, Parsian Kowsar Hotel