Tabriz Travel Guide in 2023: All you need to know

Traveling to Tabriz is like stepping into a time machine that transports you through Iran’s vibrant history and culture. Read on to find out more about the Tabriz Travel Guide in 2023.

Situated in the north western region of Iran, Tabriz is a stunning and culturally rich city that showcases impressive landmarks, lively bazaars, and delicious Azeri dishes that create an unforgettable impression on one’s memory.

Tabriz is the capital of East Azerbaijan Province and the sixth-largest city in Iran. It is located between the two mountain ranges of Sahand and Eynali and is known for its rich cultural legacy, historical landmarks, and traditional bazaars.

Tabriz has earned the name “City of Firsts” due to its significant role in introducing numerous inventions and innovations to Iran. The city is credited with being the birthplace of Iran’s first printing press, modern library, cinema, kindergarten, deaf school, coin mints, bill printing, chamber of commerce, municipality, telephone, power plant, and fire station.”

It should be noted that the people in Tabriz are Turks and despite the fact that Persian is the official language in Iran, they speak Turkish (Azeri) in their daily lives and even at schools and universities.

Tabriz Travel Guide in 2023:

Many of the socio-political movements of Iran commenced from this city and from there spread to other cities. In this Tabriz travel guide in 2023, we will explore the city’s top attractions, cultural landmarks, and appetizing cuisine as well as the weather and travel requirements.

Travel to Tabriz

Tabriz is easily accessible by plane, bus, and train. If you are traveling internationally, Tabriz International Airport is the main gateway to the city and is served by many international and domestic airlines.

You can take a taxi or bus from the Airport to the city center. Alternatively, if you are traveling within the country, you can take a bus or train to Tabriz from other major cities in Iran. Tabriz has many bus and train stations that connect it to other cities in Iran, facilitating its accessibility.

Transportation in Tabriz

The primary entry point into the city is the Tabriz International Airport, which is served by a number of both domestic and foreign airlines. A cab or bus may easily transport you to your destination from the airport, which is around 10 kilometers from the city center. There are various bus and train stations in Tabriz that connect it to other Iranian cities if you’d rather take one of those modes of transportation.

Buses, the metro, or cabs are all options for public transit after you reach Tabriz. If you’re traveling in a group, taking a taxi is a practical way to get around the city and is widely available.

Buses are another popular and reasonably priced method of transportation, but they can get very crowded during peak hours. The metro system, a more recent addition to the city, offers a quick and effective means to travel around.

Those who travel to Tabriz can use bus rapid transit (BRT) for transportation inside the city. These buses are all equipped with an electronic ticketing system. You can purchase or recharge your card at the bus stops.

If you are interested in biking, the city of Tabriz is the best choice for you. You can walk around the road from Qonqa Square to the Abresan Crossroad. On this route, there are some stations to rent a bike.

Top tourist attractions in Tabriz

In this part of the Tabriz travel guide in 2023, we discuss top tourist attractions you must include in your itinerary while visiting this enchanting city.

• Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex: As a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010, the Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex is one of the largest and oldest bazaars in the Middle East. The bazaar is made up of a number of connected buildings, courtyards, and lanes and extends across an area of nearly 27 hectares. The bazaar is organized into numerous areas, each of which specializes in a specific product category, such as spices, carpets, jewelry, and handicrafts. The bazaar serves as a social and cultural center in addition to being a busy commercial area because it is home to numerous old mosques, schools, and bathhouses.
• Tabriz Citadel: The historical fortress known as the Tabriz Citadel, or Ark-e-Alishah, is situated in the heart of the city. It was constructed in the 14th century by the ruler of the Ilkhanici people, Ghazan Khan, and used as both a palace and a barracks for the armed forces. After suffering significant damage from an earthquake in 1779, the citadel was later repaired in the 1970s. It now serves as a museum that highlights the history and culture of East Azerbaijan Province and Tabriz.
• Blue Mosque: The Blue Mosque, sometimes called the Turquoise Mosque, is a stunning and ancient mosque that can be found in the heart of the city. Jahan Shah, the emperor of the Kara Koyunlu dynasty, gave the order for its construction in the 15th century. The mosque is noted for its fine calligraphy, stained-glass windows, and tilework. The mosque is still a functioning place of worship today despite numerous restorations throughout the years.
• El Goli Park: A lovely and picturesque park called El Goli Park is located in the southeast of the city. It has many gardens, fountains, and pavilions and is constructed around a big artificial lake. Particularly in the summer, picnics, boating, and leisure are common activities at the park.
• Kandovan Village: About 60 kilometers from Tabriz, there is a distinctive and beautiful settlement called Kandovan Village. It is well-known for its remarkable rock formations and rock-cut cave houses. The people have lived in the village for many centuries, and it has a long history that dates back to the 12th century.

Cultural Landmarks

In this part of the Tabriz travel guide in 2023, we discuss top cultural landmarks you must include in your itinerary while visiting this enchanting city.

1. Azerbaijan Museum: In the city center, there is a well-known museum called the Azerbaijan Museum. It displays a huge collection of items, like ceramics, coins, textiles, and weapons, and serves as a showcase for the history and culture of the East Azerbaijan Province. The Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex and its contribution to the city’s social and economic growth are also the subjects of a section in the museum.
2. Shahriar Literary Museum: There is a distinctive museum called the Shahriar Literary Museum in the city center. It honors the life and literary output of eminent Iranian poet Mohammad Hossein Shahriar. The museum hosts a number of exhibitions, including ones with Shahriar’s personal items, manuscripts, and images. Additionally, it features a library with a considerable selection of books and literary works.
3. Constitution House of Tabriz: A historic structure in the heart of Tabriz is called the Constitution House. It served as the meeting place for the movement’s leaders and was crucial to the Iranian Constitutional Revolution of 1906. The home has been transformed into a museum that highlights the revolution’s significance, history, and effects on Iranian society.

Appetizing Cuisine

In this part of the Tabriz travel guide in 2023, we discuss top delicious cuisines you must try while visiting the culinary capital of Iran.

• Ash Reshteh: Ash Reshteh is a nourishing and flavorsome soup that comprises beans, noodles, herbs, and spices. This dish is highly favored in Tabriz, and is usually served as a main course. The soup is customarily topped with fried onions, mint, and kashk, a by-product of whey.
• Kabab Tabrizi: Kabab Tabrizi, a classic meat dish originating from Tabriz, comprises succulent lamb or beef chunks that are marinated in an assortment of spices and grilled to perfection over an open flame. The dish is typically served with saffron rice, alongside grilled tomatoes and onions. A side of yogurt or salad often accompanies the meat, adding to the dish’s overall flavor and texture.
• Ghorabiye Cookies: Ghorabiye Cookies, a beloved Iranian confectionery that originally belongs to Tabriz, are made with a blend of butter, flour, powdered sugar, and ground almonds or pistachios. These cookies are typically molded into small rounds or crescents and are baked until they turn crisp and acquire a beautiful golden-brown color.
• Doimaj Tea: Doimaj Tea, a customary drink that is very popular in Tabriz and the whole province, blends black tea with cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, and is complemented with sugar and a slice of lemon. This tea is commonly served during breakfast or post-meals, adding to its refreshing and rejuvenating charm.

Where to stay in Tabriz

Tabriz provides a plethora of accommodation alternatives that cater to diverse budgets and preferences. Hence, you can rest assured that you will find suitable accommodation that aligns with your specific needs and expectations.

Some of the top hotels in Tabriz include:

Tabriz offers a range of hotels to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the top hotels in Tabriz:

• Shahryar International Hotel: Located in the city center, this 5-star hotel boasts lavish lodgings and high-quality facilities that include a fitness center, spa, and indoor pool. In addition to that, the hotel also features a selection of restaurants that serve a blend of local and international cuisine, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for travelers.
• Gostaresh Hotel: Situated in close proximity to the Tabriz International Airport, this 4-star hotel provides comfortable lodgings and modern facilities, including a fitness center, sauna, and indoor pool. Guests can also relish traditional Persian cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant, adding to their overall experience of staying in the hotel.
• Pars EI-Goli Hotel: This 5-star hotel is located near El Goli Park and offers luxurious accommodations and amenities, including a fitness center, spa, and outdoor pool. The hotel also features several restaurants serving local and international cuisine.
• Kaya Laleh Park Hotel: This 5-star hotel is located in the city center and offers luxurious accommodations and amenities, including a fitness center, spa, and indoor pool. The hotel also features several restaurants serving local and international cuisine.
• Tabriz International Hotel: This 5-star hotel is located in the city center and offers luxurious accommodations and amenities, including a fitness center, spa, and indoor pool. The hotel also features a selection of restaurants that serve a blend of local and international cuisine.

Tabriz has plenty of high-quality hotels to choose from, whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or more budget-friendly options.

Tabriz offers a variety of culinary choices, ranging from traditional Persian cuisine to international fare. The city has a variety of eating options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Persian cuisine to international fare, you’re sure to find something delicious to eat in Tabriz. In this part of the Tabriz travel guide in 2023, we introduce some of the best restaurants.

Some of the top places to eat in Tabriz include:

• Khatoon Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the city center and is known for its delicious Persian cuisine, including kebabs, stews, and rice dishes. The restaurant has a traditional atmosphere and is a perfect setting to sample genuine Persian flavors.
• Sheikh Shaban Restaurant: Located in the historic Khiyavan neighborhood, this restaurant is known for its delicious lamb and beef dishes. The restaurant has a traditional decor and offers a relaxed and cozy atmosphere.
• Darya Restaurant: This restaurant is located near El Gel’ Park and is known for its fresh seafood dishes, including grilled fish, shrimp, and calamari. The restaurant presents a beautiful view of the lake and provides an ideal venue to enjoy a relaxing meal.
• Mandi Traditional Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the city center and specializes in traditional Tabrizi cuisine, including Ash Reshteh, Kabab, and Gheymeh. The restaurant has a simple and cozy decor and offers a variety of delicious dishes.
• Mokhtarnameh Restaurant: This restaurant is located near the Tabriz Citadel and is known for its delicious Persian cuisine, including stews, kebabs, and rice dishes. The restaurant has a traditional decor and offers a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.

Tabriz Climate

Tabriz has a mild and pleasant climate, rendering it a popular summer destination for travelers from all over the world. The weather conditions closely resemble those of Central Europe, with cold and rainy winters and a handful of pleasant summer months. For travelers seeking warmer temperatures, the optimal time to visit is from June to September, while the colder months extend from November to March.

Tabriz is known for its rich cultural heritage, and there are many souvenirs you can buy to remember your trip to this historic city. In this part of the Tabriz travel guide in 2023, we introduce some of the city’s best souvenirs:

• Tabriz Carpets: Renowned for its exquisite handmade carpets, Tabriz boasts some of the world’s most exceptional designs. Made from high-quality wool or silk, these carpets showcase intricate patterns and designs that are a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of local artists. With an array of sizes, colors, and designs to choose from, you can easily find a carpet that aligns with your preferences and budget.
• Copper and Brass Handicrafts: Tabriz is also known for its exquisite copper and brass handicrafts, which include trays, teapots, and vases. These handicrafts are handmade by skilled artists and feature intricate designs that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.
• Traditional Clothing: You can also buy traditional Turk clothing, including scarves, hats, and jackets. These clothing items are made from high-quality materials and feature unique designs and patterns.
• Spices and Sweets: Tabriz is known for its delicious sweets, including saffron, almond rock candy, and baklava. These items make great souvenirs to take back home and share with friends and family.
• Miniature Paintings: Tabriz is home to many talented miniature painters, and you can buy miniature paintings of various sizes and subjects. These paintings feature intricate details and are a great way to bring a piece of Tabriz’s rich cultural heritage back home with you.

Overall, those who travel to Tabriz need to know that the city offers a wide variety of unique and beautiful souvenirs that reflect its rich cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship.

Some useful tips for traveling to Tabriz:

Here are some useful travel tips to keep in mind when traveling to Tabriz:

• Dress Modestly: Iran is an Islamic country and modest dress is expected in public areas. Women should wear a headscarf, long pants or a skirt, and a top that covers their arms and hips. Men should also dress modestly and avoid wearing shorts.
• Use Local Transportation: Tabriz has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and a metro system. Using these options is a cost-effective and convenient way to get around the city.
• Learn Basic Turkish (Azeri) Phrases: Learning a few basic Azeri phrases can go a long way in communicating with locals and making your trip more enjoyable.
• Try Local Cuisine: Tabriz is known for its delicious Persian cuisine, including kebabs, stews, and rice dishes. Make sure to try the local cuisine and explore the city’s culinary offerings.
• Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Iran has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. This includes avoiding public displays of affection, respecting prayer times, and dressing modestly.
• Carry Cash: While some places in Tabriz accept credit cards, it’s a good idea to carry cash with you as many small shops and restaurants only accept cash.
• Be Mindful of Religious Sites: Tabriz has many beautiful mosques and religious sites, and it’s important to be respectful when visiting these places. This includes taking off your shoes before entering and dressing modestly.

Tabriz is a beautiful and welcoming city, and following these tips can help you have a safe and enjoyable trip. Tabriz is a city that is rich in history, culture, and local cuisine. Its beautiful bazaars, historic monuments, and scenic parks make it a must-visit destination for travelers interested in exploring Iran’s cultural heritage.

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture, sample its delicious cuisine, or simply relax and enjoy its scenic beauty, Tabriz has something to offer everyone. We hope that this Tabriz travel guide in 2023 has provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip to this fascinating city.