The 9 things to do in Yazd

Are you going to Iran? If you pass to the Iranian central plateau, you're sure you're wondering what to do in Yazd. Here are 10 places to discover absolutely.

At the heart of the Iranian plateau, Yazd invites you to travel. Located 270 km southeast of Ispahan , the city, known for its hospitality and the generosity of its inhabitants, promises a stay rich in discoveries. With its heritage, Yazd is appreciated for its cultural richness, and is a testament to its sites with breathtaking beauty. Visiting Yazd is also discovering its history, its particularity. From her birth on the drylands to the history of her people, the so-called oasis has many things to contempt.

Without further delay, here are the nine essential things to do in Yazd, the "surprising"!

1. The Amir Chakhmaq complex

If you ask that to do in Yazd, the Amir Chaghmagh complex is a must. Located in the heart of the historic centre, you can visit Yazd without a tour. A symbol of the architecture of the Middle East, this religious complex impresses as much as it fascinates.

Amir Chakhmaq consists of a large square, a huge basin, but also beautiful fountains. Behind these elements, there is a dome and minarets. On the north side, the Amir Chakhmagh Mosque – also writing Chakhmaq – is required. It also bears the name "old mosque", since the mosque was built in the 15th century. A place that, thanks to the successive renovations of the site, has kept its beauty intact.

2. Zoroastrian religion

Zoroastrism is the oldest religion in Iran. Even today, many are the people to practice it. In Yazd, the inhabitants gather in the many places of worship that the city shelters. Zorotarism has also been a major part of the richness of local heritage, giving it a unique heritage. When you visit Yazd, it is customary to go to the discovery of sites erected in honor of religion.

Among them, the Fire Temple, the temple of the most important fire of the city. Also called Ateshkadeh, it houses the sacred flame. The turns of silence, when to them, are worth a visit. These are cemeteries that housed the bodies of the deceased. Today for funeral rituals, she continues to question visitors.

3. Jameh Mosque or Friday Mosque

Visit Yazd also pass through the Jameh Mosque. Indeed, the nicknamed "Friday Mosque" is no other than the largest mosque in the city, the proudly dominant.

Built in the 14th century, the Jameh Mosque reflects the Islamic-Iranian architecture. Its colours, mosaics and ornaments dress it with a splendid blue. For a full experience, we advise you to opt for one of the shows of sounds and lights organized by the site. Wonderful!

4. The Bagh-e Dolat Abad

Built in the 18th century, Bagh-e Dolat Abad Palace is a real architectural prowess. Known for hosting the highest wind tower in the country, it is on 33 meters! Dressed with kaleidoscopic stained-glass windows, he paints a portrait of the Persian garden as we imagine. Its many fountains surrounded by cypresses, invite when to them, calm and strolling.

5. Old town

During your Iranian stay, discover the old town of Yazd. At the heart of this historic site, tea lounges and handicraft shops are the most beautiful hotels. Enjoy your passage to glean some memories and taste local specialties. After all, you are in the city that many consider the most beautiful in the country!

Typical streets

Are you still here? Take advantage of your visit to the center to go and lose yourself in the alleys of Yazd. True little secret passages, they give the city a charm that leaves no one indifferent... If it is easy to lose, make sure: you will always find your way.

The cafes and restaurants

Yes, in Yazd, even the cafes and restaurants display a sumptuous decor. To discover them, we invite you to find them at random, as you walk in the city centre. You will have understood it, strolling is a real time pass when visiting Yazd! Again, stop at a terrace, taste tea and/or local specialties like Faloodeh yazdi.

The roofs of the city

Also plan to take height, up on the roofs. In height you can admire the magnificent sunset and the panorama of the old city. A magical moment.

6. Meet the inhabitants

You will be surprised at the hospitality of the inhabitants of the city of Yazd. To know what to do in Yazd, just look... around you! Go to meet locals who will be happy to make you discover their daily lives. Wherever you are, whatever your meetings, enjoy this moment of sharing that will make your stay in Yazd a unique experience.

7. The temple of Chak Chak

Great place of zoroastrism, the Chak Chak temple, also named Chak Chaku, is a site with mystic origins. The legend tells us that in the seventh century, the daughter of the last king came to take refuge here during the Arab invasion. As a result of praying not to be seen, she would eventually be one with the rock. If the Chak Chak temple remains deserted, many pilgrims go there every year, especially for its miraculous source.

Chak Chak being located 70 kilometers from Yazd in the desert, you will have to opt for a trip if you want to discover it. To do this, the high season is to be avoided! At least June, for example, attendance increases considerably.

8. The village of Kharanagh

After the desert, enjoy your discovery of the surroundings. Direction the village of Kharanagh and its superb landscapes worthy of the saga scenery Star Wars . Just 70 km from Yazd, the old citadel of the village called "Le Château" is just as sublime. The place remains really fascinating with its arches, its beautiful narrow streets and its particular aura.

Obviously, it would be a shame to visit Yazd without making a jump in this village.

9. The ruins of the fortress of Saryazd

Are you still wondering what to do in Yazd? At 45 minutes by car, go to discover the ruins of the fortress of the village Saryazd, magnificent heritage of the sassanid era. From a great splendour, it seems straight out of a tale of the Mille and A Nuits! Dressed with a double wall and erected on three floors, it is known worldwide. Still, Saryazd is not visited! Because of the tourist routes that do not give it priority. So, what are you waiting for?

How do I get to Yazd?

From France

To reach Iran, first book a first flight from France to Tehran . Many flights are provided by various companies from Paris, Lyon, Marseille and other major French cities (often with an additional stopover).

To benefit from a rate, we invite you to take it soon enough! See the various flights available on a comparison like Ulysses : try several dates and take into account stopovers and flight schedules. Thus, you have the assurance to benefit from the best offers.

From Tehran

Once on site, in the Iranian capital, take another flight from Tehran Airport. In-house, several companies offer one hour direct flights to the city of Yazd.

Once you arrive in Yazd, count another 10 kilometers to reach the center. Here, do not hesitate to take a taxi, they are many to wait for tourists at the airport.

Where to stay in Yazd?

You will find some well located hotels in downtown Yazd. Whether you choose a large hotel or a homestay, count about 40€ at night with room and breakfast. For solo travellers, it is possible to find simple rooms to 25€ at night.