How to get to Tabriz

When planning a trip to Tabriz, you are setting off for one of the most significant historical and cultural centres in the northwest of Iran. You can reach this vibrant city, renowned for its grand bazaar and rich heritage, in various ways: from a quick flight to a scenic journey by train or car. Regardless of the chosen route, this hospitable metropolis will serve as a convenient starting point for exploring the region.

The fastest way to reach the city is to take a flight to Tabriz Airport (TBZ). This important regional hub, with a passenger flow of about 1,800,000 people, handles regular flights, ensuring a reliable connection with the outside world.

Although airports in the cities of Urmia (122 km), Kapan (126 km), and Nakhchivan (146 km) are geographically close, it is logistically most convenient to fly directly to Tabriz or use connecting flights via Tehran. This will allow you to avoid the complexities of ground transfers across borders and save your precious time.

Contrary to outdated information, Tabriz is a key node in the country's railway network and has an active train station. Trains regularly arrive here from the capital and other regions, offering tourists a safe and comfortable mode of travel, including popular overnight trains.

The railway offers an excellent opportunity to view the landscapes of Iran from the window of your compartment. If you are in neighbouring regions, such as Urmia, or are planning a complex route through Nakhchivan, the train can become part of your combined journey.

Bus services are traditionally one of the most developed and budget-friendly ways to move around Iran. Comfortable intercity buses (often VIP class) regularly connect Tabriz with major cities across the country, offering comfortable reclining seats and air conditioning.

Travel time depends on the departure point, but the extensive network of routes allows you to get here from almost any part of the country. A bus trip is not only a way to save money but also a chance to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and see scenic landscapes.

Travelling by car gives you freedom of schedule. One of the most popular routes leads from the city of Urmia: the distance is about 144 km, which will take approximately 2.2 hours on the road. You can also arrive from the direction of Nakhchivan — a road 175 km long will require about 2.5 hours of driving.

The route from the city of Kapan is longer: you will have to cover nearly 217 km, which will take around 4.4 hours due to the terrain. Taxi services and private chauffeurs are widely available and often become the optimal solution for a comfortable transfer.

Before travelling to Tabriz, it is useful to know a few important nuances that will make your stay in this ancient city comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing: Strictly observe the dress code: women need a headscarf and loose clothing covering the figure down to the mid-thigh; men should not wear shorts.
2. Transport: It is convenient to move around the city by taxi (yellow cabs or via apps). It is better to agree on the cost of the trip with private drivers in advance.
3. Finances: International cards do not work in Iran. Bring cash US Dollars or Euros with you to exchange at official exchange offices.
4. Health: It is recommended to drink only bottled water. Medical services are well-developed, but having travel insurance is mandatory.
5. Communication: Locals speak predominantly Azerbaijani and Persian. Knowledge of English is limited, so download an offline translator.
6. Etiquette: Be mindful of the "Taarof" tradition (ceremonial politeness). If you are offered something, it is customary to politely decline at first.
7. What to Avoid: Do not photograph government buildings, military facilities, and police stations — this is strictly prohibited.
8. Bazaar: Make sure to visit the Tabriz Bazaar — a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is the best place to buy famous carpets, nuts, and spices.

Following these simple recommendations will help you show respect for the local culture and ensure a warm welcome from the residents.