How to get to Kashan

Kashan is a captivating oasis city in the central part of Iran, renowned for its magnificent historical mansions and its proximity to the desert. If you have decided to visit Kashan, it is helpful to know that this popular tourist destination has excellent transport connections with other regions of the country. We will explain how to reach Kashan by plane, train, intercity bus, or car so that your journey is as comfortable as possible.

Although Kashan has its own airport (KKS), it serves very few flights and is practically unused for mass tourism. Finding a convenient direct flight directly to the city can be difficult, so travelers rarely choose this option as their primary method.

It is much more convenient and reliable to fly via major neighboring aviation hubs. The optimal arrival points are considered to be Tehran (specifically Imam Khomeini International Airport) and Isfahan. They receive numerous international flights and are located at a comfortable distance from Kashan. The journey from these cities by ground transport will take just a couple of hours, making them ideal transit points.

Traveling by train is one of the most comfortable and safe ways to reach the city. Kashan has its own railway station, which is an important stop on the main line connecting the north and south of the country. This allows tourists to easily include the city in their itinerary without the need for complicated transfers.

Regular railway service is established with major centers such as Tehran, Isfahan, Yazd, and Shiraz. The journey from the capital takes an average of about three hours. Iranian trains are noted for their comfort and cleanliness, and the carriage windows offer picturesque views of desert landscapes, turning the trip into a small adventure of its own.

The station is located within the city limits, so upon arrival, you can quickly reach the historical center or your hotel by taxi. It is recommended to purchase train tickets in advance, as this is a popular mode of transport among both locals and travelers.

Intercity buses are one of the most popular and affordable ways to get to the city, especially considering the comfort of local VIP liners with wide seats. Most often, travelers arrive here from Tehran: the bus covers the distance of 250 kilometers in approximately 3 hours. You can get there even faster from Isfahan, located just 215 kilometers to the south — the journey will take about 2.5 hours.

If you are planning a route from the west of the country, it is convenient to use a direct service from Hamadan. This path, about 390 kilometers long, will require approximately 5–6 hours, allowing you to observe the changing landscapes outside the window. The Kashan bus terminal is located at some distance from the center, so upon arrival, it makes sense to take a taxi to your hotel.

Traveling by car is an excellent chance to see authentic Iranian landscapes and make stops in picturesque places at your own leisure. The road from Tehran will take about 3 hours (250 km), and the journey from Isfahan is even shorter — just 215 km, which you will drive in 2–2.5 hours on a high-quality modern highway.

Tourists heading from the west, for example from Hamadan, will have to cover about 390 km, which will take approximately 5 hours. A private transfer or taxi ("darbast") is an extremely popular and reasonably priced option in the region: a trip between cities will cost a fair price, saving you from navigation difficulties and the search for parking in the historical center.

A trip to Kashan is an immersion into the atmosphere of ancient Persia, but for a comfortable holiday, several important nuances should be considered. We have prepared a list of practical recommendations that will help you avoid difficulties and get the most pleasure from your trip to this oasis city.

1. Clothing and Seasonality: It can be very hot in Kashan during the summer, so choose loose clothing made of natural fabrics (cotton, linen). In winter and early spring, evenings can be cool, so a light jacket or sweater will be useful. Remember the country's dress code: women must wear a headscarf and a tunic or cardigan that covers the hips, and men should not wear shorts in public places.
2. Getting Around the City: The historical center of Kashan is quite compact, and many attractions (traditional houses, the bazaar) are within walking distance of each other. For trips to Fin Garden or the train station, it is most convenient to use a taxi. It is recommended to install local ride-hailing apps (similar to Uber) to see a fixed price and avoid bargaining.
3. Money and Payment: International Visa and Mastercard bank cards do not work here. Be sure to bring a sufficient supply of cash (US Dollars or Euros) in good condition. You can exchange them for local Rials at official exchange offices ("Sarrafi") in the city center; it is better to avoid street money changers for security reasons.
4. Health and Hygiene: Tap water in the city is considered clean, but tourists are strongly advised to drink only bottled water to eliminate the risk of stomach upset due to the change in water composition. There are pharmacies in the city, but if you take specific medications, bring a supply with you.
5. Language Barrier: The main language of communication is Persian (Farsi). In tourist hotels and museums, staff often speak English, but it may be more difficult to communicate at the bazaar or in a taxi. Download an offline translator or learn a few basic phrases ("hello", "thank you") — locals greatly appreciate such attention to their culture.
6. Local Etiquette: Iranians are famous for their hospitality and politeness ("Taarof"). If you are offered a treat or a service for free, it is customary to politely refuse at first. If the offer is repeated insistently, then you may accept. When greeting, men shake hands, but a man should not be the first to extend his hand to a woman — a nod and a smile are sufficient.
7. What to Avoid: Do not photograph government institutions, police stations, and military personnel — this is strictly prohibited. Also, refrain from public displays of affection (kissing and long hugs) between men and women on the street, as this contradicts public norms.
8. Opening Hours (Siesta): Keep in mind that life in the city slows down in the middle of the day. Many shops, stalls at the bazaar, and even some offices close for an afternoon break from approximately 13:00 to 16:00. Plan active walks and shopping for the morning or evening when the heat subsides and the city comes alive again.

Observing these simple rules will help you feel confident and show respect for local traditions. Kashan is an incredibly friendly city, and by showing a little tact and openness, you will definitely meet a warm welcome from its residents.