Tehran is a cultural destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Tehran?
You should plan to spend around $89 (﷼3,733,850) per day on your vacation in Tehran. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $24 (﷼1,030,486) on meals
- $0.38 (﷼16,199) on local transportation
- $125 (﷼5,246,793) on hotels
A one week trip to Tehran for two people costs, on average, $1,241 (﷼52,273,900). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$621
﷼26,136,950
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,241
﷼52,273,900
-
One Month
Per person
$2,660
﷼112,015,500
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,241
﷼52,273,900
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,483
﷼104,547,800
-
One Month
For a couple
$5,320
﷼224,031,000
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Tehran cost?
A one week trip to Tehran usually costs around $621 (﷼26,136,950) for one person and $1,241 (﷼52,273,900) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Tehran on average costs around $1,241 (﷼52,273,900) for one person and $2,483 (﷼104,547,800) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Tehran will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Tehran on average costs around $2,660 (﷼112,015,500) for one person and $5,320 (﷼224,031,000) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Tehran expensive to visit?
Tehran is a small yet inviting destination that captivates travelers with a mix of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary ranges. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
You can find Tehran to be very expensive if you're not careful, but methods like looking for discounts and coupons can help you save money.
On average, budget travelers spend $37 (﷼1,539,134) per day, mid-range travelers spend $89 (﷼3,733,850) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $203 (﷼8,555,211) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Tehran.
Within the Middle East, Tehran is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in the Middle East for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Beirut, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Dubai.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Tehran Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Tehran?
The average Tehran trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Tehran travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Tehran cost?
Tehran on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$25
(﷼1,067,261)
|
$62
(﷼2,623,397)
|
$147
(﷼6,185,196)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$0
(﷼13,986)
|
$0
(﷼16,199)
|
$0
(﷼20,377)
|
|
Food2
|
$10
(﷼435,443)
|
$24
(﷼1,030,486)
|
$52
(﷼2,193,291)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$2
(﷼81,250)
|
$5
(﷼193,125)
|
$10
(﷼416,250)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations about your travel budget in Tehran is important. While you might think you can save money by cutting expenses, traveling comfortably requires a bit more spending for most people. Think about your favorite vacation activities and ideal travel style. Staying in a resort or comfortable hotel, along with sightseeing and dining out are generally what many people prefer. Your travel preferences will determine how much you'll end up spending on your trip.
Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?
You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $37 per day that backpackers typically manage.
Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.
Fortunately, Tehran has plenty of hostels such as Tehran Heritage Hostel, HI Tehran Hostel, and Firouzeh Hostel by Heritage. At hostels like these, you can find cheap accommodation in a dorm as well as a social atmosphere, but with very little amenities.
Is Your Travel Style Average?
If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll most likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at trendy restaurants, and check out the main museums and attractions that charge for entry. A trip to Tehran wouldn't be complete without visiting its major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Keep in mind that most activities have costs associated with them. Hence, you should realistically expect your daily budget to hover around $89 per person, per day.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
If you envision a trip that covers everything with high-end amenities and top-tier service, be ready for a daily expense near $203. Enjoying nicer hotels, dining at acclaimed restaurants, participating in extravagant activities, and using taxis or private drivers to navigate the destination will require a premium budget.
Accommodation Budget in Tehran
In Tehran, the price of hotels can really surprise you. Some are much more expensive, offering higher luxury and amenities. Peak season rates soar, with off-season averages around $ and peak season rising to an average of $. Prices typically range from $ to $, but hostels remain cheaper, especially in dorms. To save money, book during the low season or take advantage of special promotions and advance deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Tehran for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $125 (﷼5,246,793). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $62 (﷼2,623,397) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Tehran? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Visiting in the low or shoulder season, rather than during , will give you cheaper lodging options and fewer tourists to navigate around.
Transportation Budget in Tehran
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $0.38 (﷼16,199) per person, per day, on local transportation in Tehran. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Tehran is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$0.38
﷼16,199
To enter Iran, a visa is required for the citizens of all countries except Lebanon, Turkey, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Russia, Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Venezuela, Tanzania, Nicaragua, Bolivia, and Ecuador. United States citizens can apply for a visa at the Iranian Interest Section of the Pakistani Embassy in Washington; however, they must have an MFA-approved guide to accompany them for the entire trip as well as an exact itinerary prior to traveling (thus, tours are suggested for U.S. visitors).
International flights mainly enter Iran via Imam Khomeini International Airport, located 37 kilometers southwest of Tehran. Iran Air and Mahan Air connect Tehran with some of the major European cities as well as destinations in Asia and Middle East. European companies landing in Tehran include British Midland International, Lufthansa, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Alitalia, Turkish Airlines, Austrian Airlines, and Aeroflot. Middle-Eastern airlines include Saudi Arabian Airlines, Emirates, and Etihad.
How much does it cost to go to Tehran? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Tehran will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Tehran
Cuisine is one of the main reasons people travel, so don't miss out on the local fare.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Tehran can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Tehran is $24 (﷼1,030,486) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$24
﷼1,030,486
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Tehran is around $24 (﷼1030486) per person, with previous travelers spending from $10 to $52. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Tehran are as follows:
- Breakfast: $2 to $7
- Lunch: $4 to $10
- Dinner: $7 to $17
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $4
Meals in Iran are traditionally relaxed, drawn-out affairs with a range of dishes from pastries, fruits, and nuts to rice, kebab, soups, and flatbreads. Lunch can be served anywhere between 12-3 pm and dinner is often eaten after 8 pm. Alcohol is forbidden, except for some religious minorities, as are pork products. Rice is a staple for Iranian cuisine, often flavored with saffron and other spices, and served with kebab variations of chicken, beef, or lamb. Dishes are often garnished with grilled tomatoes, onions, and other vegetables and flavored with a variety of spices. The most popular Iranian soup is the vegetarian ash reshteh, made from herbs, chickpeas, and thick noodles, and adorned with yogurt and fried onions. Flatbreads are served at breakfast with herbs, feta cheese, and a variety of jams, or as an accompaniment to meals.
Many hotels include breakfast in their price, while some add it on as an extra charge. The price and quality can vary depending on the hotel. Knowing ahead of time can help you decide if you need to spend even more money. Maybe it's worth your money for the delicious buffet at the hotel. Or, perhaps you should just go to a nearby bakery or cafe that's much cheaper.
Keep a water bottle handy instead of buying drinks everywhere. It's also a great way to reduce waste.
If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Tehran
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Tehran typically cost an average of $4.59 (﷼193,125) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$4.59
﷼193,125
A longstanding symbol of Tehran and an iconic landmark is the Azadi Tower. Combining elements of Sassanid and Islamic architecture, the tower was constructed to commemorate the 2,500th anniversary of the Persian Empire. Another significant landmark, and the oldest of Tehran's historical monuments, is Golestan Palace. The complex consists of 17 palaces, museums, and halls, as well as a garden. Once the Qajars' royal residence, this place is one of the most visited sites in the city. Its museums showcase the best of culture, art, and history of Iran and its provinces. Also well sought out is the Treasury of the National Jewels, which showcases the largest collection of jewels found anywhere in the world. Highlights include a number of famous diamonds, the world's largest uncut ruby, and a free standing golden globe made from 34 kilograms of gold and over 50,000 precious stones.
Other attractions include the Milad Tower which is visible from anywhere in the city, museums like the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art and the Carpet Museum & National Rug Gallery, and the Grand Bazaar which features anything from clothing to carpets, kitchen accessories, decorations, jewelry, and more.
And before you plan your trip to Iran, make sure you read these interesting travel tips about Iran.
Sightseeing amidst the major attractions of Tehran occupies most of one's time during a visit to the city. There are plenty of features that showcase the best of Iran's art, history, and culture especially with the great number of museums, galleries, and monuments. For a view of the city from above, visit the observation lounge of Milad Tower. Or, to become immersed in the lively culture of the city close up, explore the many bazaars and markets of Tehran's unique neighborhoods.
Travel cost data last updated: Apr 1, 2025
Traveling in Tehran
Tehran, Iran
The capital of Iran, Tehran is a cosmopolitan city with great museums, art galleries, parks, restaurants, and more. It is located in the northernmost part of Central Iran at the foot of the towering Alborz mountain range. Some of the most popular attractions include the Treasury of the National Jewels, Golestan Palace, and the Tajrish Bazaar.
Neighborhoods & Around
The city can be roughly divided into two different parts: north and south. The northern districts of Tehran are more prosperous, modern, cosmopolitan, and expensive while southern parts are less attractive but cheaper. As a whole, Tehran is extremely populated and traffic-ridden, though there are also more than 800 parks throughout the city great for escaping the cosmopolitan smog and bustle. Some of the more popular neighborhoods for visitors include Niavaran, Farmanieh, Tajrish, and Zafaraniyeh. Niavaran is home to the wealthy with cultural riches such as the Niavaran Palace Complex, Niavaran Park, and the Farhangsara (cultural center) which includes an amphitheater, museum, music hall, and Cafe Gallerie-a courtyard coffee shop with indoor exhibition space. Farmanieh is also affluent with many skyscrapers and a shopping plaza. Tajrish is one of the oldest neighborhoods of Tehran and is perhaps best known for its traditional bazaar which features a vast array of local goods and handicrafts. Zafaraniyeh, a historical place of residence for saffron traders, is probably the most expensive in the city home to Embassies and Ambassadorial residences as well as the museum of Sa'dabad Palace.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.