How to get to Sari

Sari is the lush administrative center of Mazandaran province, comfortably nestled between the foothills of the Alborz and the coast of the Caspian Sea. When planning a trip to Sari, travelers can choose a route passing through picturesque mountain passes or along the sea coast. You can get to this corner of Iran in various ways: by a direct flight, by train along the legendary railway, or by car, enjoying the views of northern nature.

The fastest way to reach the region is by a direct flight to the local Dasht-e Naz Airport (SRY), which handles regular domestic flights. The air hub is located just a few kilometers from the city center, allowing tourists to save time on transfers and immediately immerse themselves in the province's atmosphere.

Alternatively, you can consider flying to neighboring cities: Gorgan (127 km) or Nowshahr (141 km). Also, many travelers fly into the capital's international airport, Tehran (181 km), to then continue their journey by land through the mountains.

A railway journey to Sari is an adventure in itself, as the city is an important station on the historic Trans-Iranian Railway. The route from Tehran passes through the picturesque Alborz mountains, offering passengers breathtaking views of high bridges, tunnels, and forested gorges.

Trains also connect the city with Gorgan, located in the east of the province. A train ride is considered one of the most comfortable and atmospheric ways to get to the capital of Mazandaran, allowing you to see the beauties of the region hidden from motorists.

Bus services connect Sari with almost all major cities in the country. The most popular routes depart from the capital and neighboring provincial centers, offering tourists a budget-friendly and convenient way to travel. Modern Iranian intercity VIP buses are usually equipped with air conditioning and wide reclining seats.

The travel time from Tehran is about 4–5 hours, and the road passes through beautiful mountain landscapes. Tickets can often be bought right before departure at the terminal, but on weekends and national holidays, it is better to secure seats in advance.

Traveling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to make stops at the most beautiful places along the coast and mountains. The road from Gorgan will take about 2 hours, covering approximately 134 km. The route from the direction of Nowshahr (161 km) will require about 2.7 hours.

Especially picturesque, but requiring driver attention, is the road from Tehran. The distance of 280 km through mountain serpentines is usually covered in 4.3 hours. For those who do not plan to rent a car, intercity taxis are available, the rates for which remain very reasonable in Iran.

Preparing for a trip to Sari requires knowledge of local cultural nuances to ensure your stay in the north of Iran is comfortable and safe.

1. Dress Code. Observing the Islamic dress code is mandatory. Women should wear a headscarf (rousari) and loose clothing covering the hips (manteau), while men should avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts.
2. Transport. To move around the city, it is convenient to use local taxi apps such as Snapp or Tap30. It is cheaper and easier than hailing a car on the street and bargaining.
3. Finances. Foreign bank cards do not work here. Bring cash (Dollars or Euros) with you and exchange it at official exchange offices ("Sarrafi"). Remember the difference between Rials (official currency) and Tomans (colloquial unit, 1 Toman = 10 Rials).
4. Health. Drinking tap water is not recommended; it is better to buy bottled water. A wide range of medicines is available in pharmacies, but specific prescription drugs should be brought with you.
5. Language. In Sari, people speak Persian (Farsi) and the Mazanderani dialect. Not everyone knows English, so an offline translator or phrasebook on your phone will be very useful.
6. "Taarof" Etiquette. Be prepared for "Taarof" — a ritual of politeness where you might be offered something for free. You should decline, and only if the offer is repeated persistently should you accept or pay.
7. Safety. Sari is a safe city, but standard precautions are advisable. Avoid photographing government and military facilities.
8. Weather. The climate here is humid subtropical. It can be very stuffy in summer, so choose clothing made from natural, breathable fabrics.

Following these simple rules will help you show respect for the local culture and enjoy the hospitality of the residents of Mazandaran without any hassle.