About Fars

Fars Province is the beating heart of ancient Persia, a region where history whispers from every stone and valley. As the cradle of Persian civilization, Fars is home to the magnificent ruins of Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, where colossal columns and intricate bas-reliefs tell stories of kings and conquests. Beyond this UNESCO World Heritage site, travelers can explore the enchanting pink-tiled mosques and serene gardens of Shiraz, the province's cultural capital known as the city of poets, wine, and flowers. The region's diverse landscapes range from the arid beauty of the Dasht-e Kavir to the lush valleys surrounding Pasargadae, where the tomb of Cyrus the Great stands in solemn simplicity. Fars offers unique experiences like wandering through the aromatic alleys of Shiraz's Vakil Bazaar, marveling at the kaleidoscopic stained glass of Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, and discovering the ancient rock reliefs at Naqsh-e Rostam. The warm hospitality of Farsi people, combined with exquisite regional cuisine featuring specialties like Kalam Polo and Shirazi Salad, makes this province an unforgettable journey through Persia's glorious past and vibrant present.

Travel Tips for Fars

Getting Around

Shiraz has a reliable bus system and metro line connecting major areas. Snapp and Tap30 are popular ride-hailing apps. Registered taxis (orange or yellow) operate on both meter and negotiated fares. Savari (shared taxis) are common for intercity travel. Car rentals are available in Shiraz but require international driving permit and familiarity with local driving customs. For longer distances, comfortable intercity buses connect Shiraz with other cities. Domestic flights operate from Shiraz International Airport. For archaeological sites outside Shiraz, consider hiring a local guide with vehicle.

Best Time To Visit

March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn) offer mild temperatures (15-25°C), blooming gardens, and comfortable conditions for exploring archaeological sites. Spring brings Nowruz (Persian New Year) celebrations in March. Avoid July-August when temperatures exceed 40°C. Winter (December-February) can be cold, especially in mountainous areas, but offers fewer crowds.

Local Customs

Dress modestly: women should wear headscarves and loose clothing covering arms and legs; men should avoid shorts. Remove shoes before entering homes and mosques. Greet with 'Salam' and handshake (same gender only). Accept tea when offered as a sign of hospitality. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: 10% in restaurants, small amounts for guides and drivers. Avoid public displays of affection. Use right hand for eating and handing items. During Ramadan, avoid eating/drinking in public during daylight hours. Always ask permission before photographing people.

Safety Information

Fars is generally safe for tourists, with low violent crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in Shiraz and major tourist sites. Avoid political gatherings or demonstrations. Petty theft can occur in crowded bazaars and tourist areas—keep valuables secure. Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps. Dress modestly to respect local norms. Some rural areas near borders may have security concerns; check current advisories. Be cautious when hiking in remote areas without guides. Scams are rare but be wary of overly persistent guides or inflated prices in tourist areas. Police are generally helpful to tourists.

Health Information

Travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Recommended vaccinations include routine vaccines plus Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and COVID-19. Tap water is not safe to drink—consume only bottled or purified water. Heat exhaustion is common in summer; stay hydrated. Quality medical facilities are available in Shiraz, including Nemazee Hospital and Shahid Faghihi Hospital. Bring prescription medications in original containers. Pharmacies (داروخانه) are widely available but may not stock specific Western brands. Altitude sickness can occur in mountainous areas. Travelers with respiratory issues should be cautious during dust storms.

Languages Spoken

Persian (Farsi)LuriQashqai Turkish

Quick Facts

Currency

Iranian Rial (IRR)

Timezone

Asia/Tehran +03:30 (GMT)

Calling Code

+98

Electricity

Type C, F; 220V, 50Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

5 million

Area

122608 km²

Government

Provincial Government headed by a Governor-General appointed by the central government

ISO Code

7

Frequently Asked Questions