Tehran is a city that surprises most travellers. Often they aren’t expecting much but end up blown away by the art, culture and history that burst from the city streets.
From its food and museums to its art galleries and cultural institutions – Tehran is a city that is absolutely enchanting.
But finding accommodations and navigating this megacity can be challenging, to say the least. Which is exactly why we put together this guide for where to stay in Tehran.
In this article, we’ll breakdown the five best neighborhoods and districts so you’ll know exactly which is right for you. So whether you’re looking for the top tourist attractions, great shopping, or even nightlife, we’ve got you covered!
Here are our recommendations for where to stay in Tehran, Iran.
If you’re backpacking Iran then you will probably pass through Tehran. Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Tehran. Note that there are not many Hotels in Tehran in the typical sense, there are more hostels and guesthouses.
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See You In Iran Hostel | Best Hostel in Tehran
This is our recommendation for the best hostel in Tehran. Located in Iranshahr, this hostel is close to galleries, museums, landmarks and cafes. It has eight private room and two spotless dorms. It also boasts a café, outdoor garden, and a friendly and helpful staff on-site. This is one of the most famous hostels in Iran. Breakfast is also included.
Tehran Heart BnB | Best Bed and Breakfast in Tehran
This District 6 property is our pick for the best bed and breakfast in Tehran. Tucked at the centre of Tehran, it has a mix of private and dorm accommodations. Each reservation includes a free full traditional breakfast. This property is close to restaurants, cafes and public transit.
Tehran Sweet Home | Best Apartment in Tehran
Tehran Sweet Home gets our vote for the best apartment in Tehran. It is fully furnished and offers free wifi and toiletries to guests. There’s also a large kitchen, satellite TV, and a relaxing backyard. It has private and mixed dorm accommodations, perfect for travellers of all styles and budgets.
District 12
Located at the centre of the capital is District 12. One of the oldest districts in the city, District 12 is packed with tourist attractions and historic landmarks, as well as cafes, restaurants, shops and museums.
Iranshahr
Set within central District 6 is the charming neighbourhood of Iranshahr. One of the best neighbourhoods in the city, Iranshahr is a great base for tourists keen to explore Tehran’s top landmarks and attractions.
District 6
Occupying more than 21 square kilometres northeast of Tehran city centre is District 6. One of the oldest and liveliest neighbourhoods in the city, District 6 is home to a myriad of universities and cultural institutions, as well as a youthful and student population.
South Sohrevardi
South Sohrevardi is a charming and quaint neighbourhood located east of Iranshahr and northeast of the city centre. It is home to a great selection of tourist attractions and landmarks and is well-connected throughout Tehran via metro.
Tehran is a massive and sprawling city.
Its bad reputation has led many travellers avoiding this Middle Eastern megacity for decades. While it’s still not perfect, Tehran has vastly improved in recent years and is now considered one of the up-and-coming cultural capitals of the world.
There’s plenty to see and do in Tehran for intrepid travellers, from exploring the Tehran Bazaar and browsing the museums, to indulging in the city’s rich culinary culture.
The capital and largest city in Iran, Tehran is home to 14 million people. It is divided into 22 municipal districts, which are further subdivided into a variety of neighborhoods.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at the five best neighborhoods in Tehran broken down by interest and budget.
District 12 is located just north of the city centre. A bustling and vibrant area, District 12 is home to a great variety of tourist attractions, museums and historic landmarks. Within District 12 you’ll also find Tehran Bazaar, one of the coolest neighborhoods in the city.
Travel north through District 12 and you’ll arrive in District 6. Well-known for its youthful atmosphere and student population, District 6 is packed with cafes and restaurants, perfect for enjoying a day or night on the town.
Within District 6 is Iranshahr. Charming and quaint, Iranshahr is dotted with great options for eating, shopping and exploring, as well as a fantastic selection of budget accommodations.
And finally, to the northeast of Iranshar is South Sohrevardi. This delightful neighborhood is home to plenty of interesting attractions and activities that are perfect for travellers of all ages.
Still not sure where to stay in Tehran? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
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Tehran’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take an in-depth look at Tehran’s five best neighborhoods to stay in. Each offers something different to travellers, so be sure to pick the neighborhood that’s right for you and your travel needs.
District 12 – Where to stay in Tehran first time
Located at the centre of the capital is District 12. One of the oldest districts in the city, District 12 is packed with tourist attractions and historic landmarks, as well as cafes, restaurants, shops and museums. Home to a high concentration of historical monuments, District 12 is our pick for where to stay if you’re visiting Tehran for the first time.
This part of the city is where you’ll find a wide variety of churches and mosques, as well as grand squares and intricate temples. Soak in Tehran’s incredible atmosphere by simply taking a stroll throughout the city and enjoying the sights around you.
Things to See and Do in District 12
- Admire the architecture and design of stunning Masoudieh Palace.
- Be amazed by the fine architecture and decorations of Sepahsalar Mosque.
- Dive deep into the rich and varied history of Iran at the National Museum of Iran.
- Explore a former prison and learn about Iran’s political prisoners at Ebrat Museum.
- Learn more about Old and Modern Tehran on a free walking tour with Persian Walk.
- Marvel at the detail of Golestan Palace.
- See an incredible collection of precious stones at the National Jewelry Museum.
- Take a stroll through Park e Shahr, a beautiful urban green space.
- Wander the grounds of Negarestan Garden.
Hi Tehran Hostel II | Best Hostel in District 12
This central hostel is one of the newest in the city. It offers beautiful and clean private and dorm-style accommodations. Set in a historical building, this hostel boasts a study room, kitchen, and a modern café. A delicious Persian-style breakfast is also included with each reservation.
Bibi Hostel | Best Hostel in District 12
The few hotels in Tehran are not cheap but thankfully there are plenty of hostels. Bibi Hostel is conveniently located at the heart of Tehran. It is close to public transit and the metro, as well as restaurants, cafes and landmarks. This clean, safe and well-designed hostel has private and shared accommodations, free breakfast, and both indoor and outdoor seating areas.
Tehran Heritage Hostel | Best Hostel in District 12
Tehran Heritage Hostel is our pick for where to stay in District 12. One of the largest hostels in the city, this property has both dorms and private rooms. Each bunk bed has its own privacy curtains, locker, electrical outlet, and a reading lamp. There’s also a mini-bar, kitchen, and laundry and common rooms.
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View on Osprey View on REIIranshahr – Where to stay in Tehran on a budget
Set within central District 6 is the charming neighborhood of Iranshahr. One of the best neighborhoods in the city, Iranshahr is a great base for tourists keen to explore Tehran’s top landmarks and attractions. Within walking distance, you’ll find parks and theatres, including Artists Park and Paliz Theatre, as well as delicious restaurants and cosy cafes.
Iranshahr is also where you’ll find a high concentration of budget accommodation options. Dotted throughout this downtown district are a great variety of hostels, apartments, and bed and breakfast that cater to travellers of all ages, styles and budgets.
Things to See and Do in Iranshahr
- Dine on delicious dishes at Gallery Café.
- Discover contemporary and experimental works of art at AB-ANBAR Gallery.
- Eat succulent Persian and Middle Eastern fare at Dizi.
- Enjoy a cup of coffee as you sit on the pleasant second-floor terrace of cosy Nazdik Café.
- Sample a wide range of drinks and snacks at Café UpArtMaan.
- See incredible works of classical and modern art from local artists at the Iranian Artists Forum.
- Sip a cup of coffee at No. 65 Yard Café.
- Take a stroll through or enjoy an afternoon of people watching at Honarmandan – or Artists – Park.
See You In Iran Hostel | Best Hostel in Iranshahr
This is our recommendation for where to stay in Iranshahr. Set at the centre of the city, this hostel is close to galleries, museums, landmarks and cafes. It has eight private room and two spotless dorms. It also boasts a café, outdoor garden, and a friendly and helpful staff on-site. Breakfast is also included.
Bibi Hostel | Best Hostel in Iranshahr
Bibi Hostel is a great choice for your time in Tehran. It is centrally located and has a great selection of restaurants, cafes and attractions right on its doorstep. It offers both single rooms and dorm accommodations. Guests can also enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning.
HI Tehran Hostel II | Best Hostel in Iranshahr
This great hostel is located on one of the most famous and central streets in Tehran. It is within walking distance of great restaurants, cafes, art galleries and museums. This hostel features clean private and dormitory rooms with comfortable beds and a relaxing atmosphere. It also boasts a kitchen, café, study room and a beautiful garden.
District 6 – Best area to stay in Tehran for nightlife
Occupying more than 21 square kilometres northeast of Tehran city centre is District 6. One of the oldest and liveliest neighborhoods in the city, District 6 is home to a myriad of universities and cultural institutions, as well as a youthful and student population.
District 6 is our recommendation for where to stay in Tehran for nightlife. It should be noted that nightlife looks a little different in Tehran thanks to a ban on alcohol that started in the late-1970s. Instead of nights at the club, Tehranis spend their after dark hours in cafes, restaurants, art galleries and parks.
Things to See and Do in District 6
- Browse a fantastic array of sculptures and paintings at the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art.
- Dine on fresh and delicious Vegetarian food at Café Diamond.
- Enjoy delicious eats, coffee and treats at hip and rustic Hamm Café.
- Indulge in delicious brownies, cupcakes, cookies and more at Cake Studio.
- Savour caffeinated drinks, sweet treats and snacks at Café de France, a dark and retro café.
- See a stunning collection of valuable Persian rugs at the Carpet Museum of Iran.
- Sip cappuccinos at trendy Lamiz.
- Visit Tabiat Bridge to take in the stunning views and enjoy one of the most popular nightlife destinations in the city.
Tehran Heart BnB | Best Bed and Breakfast in District 6
This bed and breakfast is our recommendation for where to stay in District 6. Tucked at the centre of Tehran, this property has a mix of private and dorm accommodations. Each reservation includes a free full traditional breakfast. This property is close to restaurants, cafes and public transit.
Pearl | Best Apartment in District 6
Pearl Apartment is a fantastic choice for your time in Tehran. Situated in central Tehran, this apartment offers all the best of the city but at a shockingly low price tag. Sleeping up to four guests, this apartment boasts comfortable beds, linens and towels, a washing machine and a fully equipped kitchen. There’s also free wifi throughout.
HodHod Budget | Best Apartment in District 6
This fully furnished apartment is set at the heart of Tehran. It is close to public transit and the metro, as well as museums, cafes and shops. Offering space for up to four guests, this apartment has free wifi, satellite TV, a basic kitchen, and laundry facilities. Breakfast and towels are not included.
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Grab an eSIM!Tehran Bazaar – Coolest place to stay in Tehran
Tehran Bazaar is a vibrant neighborhood located in District 12, south of the city centre. It is one of the liveliest areas of the city thanks to its great selection of restaurants and cafes, as well as historical landmarks and cultural institutions. It’s also one of the more “authentic” areas of Tehran, which is why it gets our vote as the coolest neighborhood in the city.
At the centre of this bustling neighborhood is the Tehran Grand Bazaar. This massive market hall covers several city blocks and is packed with vendors and craftsmen selling all kinds of wares. From clothes and accessories to food and treats, the market is where you can excite all of your senses.
Things to See and Do in Tehran Bazaar
- Be amazed by the colourful décor and incredible details of Imamzadeh Zeid shrine.
- Browse the stalls and navigate the walkways of the chaotic Tehran Bazaar.
- Dine on delicious dishes at Timcheh Akbarian, a hip restaurant located within the oldest back in Tehran.
- Eat amazing Middle Eastern food at Sharaf El-Eslami.
- Enjoy great dishes and colourful interiors at Khayyam Traditional.
- Go for a stroll along 30 Tir St. a charming cobblestone street.
- Marvel at the exteriors of Imam Mosque.
- Sip fragrant and flavourful teas at Haj Ali Darvish Teahouse.
Seven Hostel in Tehran | Best Hostel in Tehran Bazaar
One of the first hostel’s in Iran, Seven Hostel has a proven track record of providing comfortable and safe accommodations in the capital. It has private and shared rooms, perfect for singles, couples and families of travellers. It offers a flavourful breakfast and a myriad of features.
Tehran Heritage Hostel | Best Hostel in Tehran Bazaar
Tehran Heritage Hostel is centrally located in the capital. It is within walking distance of great cafes and restaurants and is close to public transit. It has private and dorm-style accommodations with privacy curtains, lockers and reading lamps. All of this combined makes it our pick for where to stay in Tehran Bazaar.
Mohhamad Hostel | Best Hostel in Tehran Bazaar
This hostel, which also goes by the name Taha Hostel Tehran, is located at the heart of the city. It is close to top tourist attractions and is a short walk to the Tehran Bazaar. It offers various different types of accommodations, and each reservation includes a delicious and filling breakfast.
South Sohrevardi – Best neighborhood in Tehran for families
South Sohrevardi is a charming and quaint neighborhood located east of Iranshahr and northeast of the city centre. It is home to a great selection of tourist attractions and landmarks and is well-connected throughout Tehran via metro. It is close to a myriad of parks and green spaces, as well as family-friendly activities, which is why it’s our pick for where to stay in Tehran for families.
Love to eat? Well, South Sohrevardi is for you! This neighborhood is packed with restaurants and cafes serving up the best in Middle Eastern and Persian cuisine. With everything from sweet treats to savoury snacks, South Sohrevardi is a neighborhood that will tickle your taste buds.
Things to See and Do in South Sohrevardi
- Browse the stalls and shops of Sohrevardi Daily Market where you can pick up everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to baked goods and handicrafts.
- Enjoy a filling and mouthwatering breakfast of pancakes, croissants and coffee at Taqato Café.
- Explore Qasr Garden Museum, an imaginative sculpture park and museum that covers the grounds of two former prisons.
- Go for a quick dip or swim a few lengths at Sahel Aram Swimming Pool.
- Grab a savoury slice at Pasha Pizza.
- Kickstart your day with a delicious omelette at Barn Café.
- Sink your teeth into a savoury snack or meal on the go from Armen Sandwich.
HI Tehran Hostel | Best Hostel in South Sohrevardi
A central location, incredible prices and a myriad of amenities – it’s no wonder we love this hostel! Located in South Sohrevardi, this hostel is close to restaurants, shops and family-friendly attractions. It has clean rooms, spacious bathrooms, and a modern kitchen. A laundry service is also available upon request.
Iran Cozy Hostel | Best Bed and Breakfast in South Sohrevardi
This charming BnB is centrally located in Tehran. It is within walking distance of the metro, as well as delicious restaurants and charming cafes. It offers spacious rooms, free wifi, and a delicious and fresh breakfast each morning. There’s also a relaxing yard and terrace to enjoy.
Tehran Sweet Home | Best Apartment in South Sohrevardi
Tehran Sweet Home gets our vote for where to stay in South Sohrevardi. It is fully furnished and offers free wifi and toiletries to guests. There’s also a large kitchen, satellite TV, and a relaxing backyard. It has private and mixed dorm accommodations, perfect for travellers of all styles and budgets.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Tehran
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Tehran and where to stay.
What To Pack For Tehran
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Tehran
Tehran is a city that often gets a bad rep. But, contrary to popular belief, Tehran is more than pollution, congestion and absolute chaos. In fact, this stunning metropolis bursts with history and culture, making it an ideal destination for curious and experienced travellers.
In this guide, we’ve looked at best places to stay in Tehran. If you’re still not sure where to stay, here’s a quick recap.
See You In Iran Hostel is our favourite hostel in the city thanks to its close proximity to historical and cultural institutions, restaurants and cafes.
Tehran Heart BnB in vibrant District 6 is another great option. It has both private rooms and dorms and offers a free breakfast each morning.
And finally, Tehran Sweet Home is our favourite apartment in the capital, perfect for families, couples and solo travellers taking on Tehran.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Iran.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Tehran.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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