Top Things to Do in Mashhad

About the City

Get ready to dive into the vibrant buzz of Mashhad, Iran, where the spiritual and the bustling modern life blend into an unforgettable adventure. Imagine walking through the massive shrine of Imam Reza, a glittering marvel of Islamic architecture, where devotees come from all corners to reflect and pray. It's not just a spiritual heart but a sensory overload with the scent of rose water in the air and the sound of prayer resonating in your soul. But wait, there's more to this city than just piety! Hit the bazaars, where you can haggle like a pro for saffron, Persian rugs, or intricate turquoise jewelry. The colors and chatter will leave you spellbound. And let's talk about the food – oh, the glorious food! Mashhad will treat your taste buds to some lip-smacking kebabs and the sweetest of sweets. Now, the flip side – navigating the city can be as tricky as a Persian puzzle box. Traffic can test the patience of a saint, and summer's heat will have you sweltering like you're in an actual desert (well, you sort of are). And if you're a night owl looking for parties, you may find the city's vibe a bit too serene for your taste. But hey, every city has its quirks, right? Embrace Mashhad in all its chaotic and peaceful, traditional and lively glory, and you'll have tales to tell for a lifetime.

Things to Do in Mashhad

Haleem

Food & Drink

Roll up your sleeves for a dive into the rich and creamy dream that is Haleem! This wheat-based wonder is slow cooked with meat, butter, and cinnamon to create a texture that's both silky and satisfyi...

Stargazing at the Astronomical Observatory

Outdoors

Got a thing for twinkling stars and mysterious planets? Look no further! The Astronomical Observatory of Mashhad invites you to squint through telescopes and whisper sweet nothings to constellations. ...

Reliving History at the Tomb of Harounieh

The Unexpected

Step into a myth-filled adventure and make the walls of Harounieh echo with gasps. This ancient gem is less crowded than other touristy spots, so you can channel your inner explorer and roam free with...

Waters of Wonder at Akhlamad Waterfall

The Unexpected

Get your swim trunks and your flippie-floppies! Head down to Akhlamad Waterfall and treat your face to nature’s own splash zone. Just stand there, and BAM!, instant refresh!

Literary Escapade in Ferdowsi's Study Room

The Unexpected

Get your quill on in the same space where Ferdowsi, the maestro of Persian epic poetry, might've penned his magnum opus! It's like borrowing Mozart’s piano, but for penning epic tales.

Saffron Picking Experience

The Unexpected

Put on your farm hats and get handsy with some of the world's most expensive spice - saffron! Pluck it right from the fields and take a whiff; it's like fanning yourself with money, if money smelled d...

Dusty Trails and Ancient Tales at Ancient City of Tus

Outdoors

Saddle up for a time-traveling hike to the ancient ruins of Tus. March through centuries-old dust, whisper to walls with stories to tell, and watch history pop out in 3D, minus the glasses!

Botanical Expedition in Bagh-e Razavi

Outdoors

Nature lovers, unite! Bagh-e Razavi isn't your average garden; it's a green wonderland. Play leafy I-spy, smell the rosy perfumes, and discover why even the bees buzz about this place!

Horseback Riding Adventures

Outdoors

Giddy up, cowboy! Trot along the scenic routes around Mashhad on a majestic horse. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned rider, horseback riding here is all about the breeze in your hair and the freed...

Desert Exploits in Kalat

Outdoors

Ever dreamed of being a desert nomad? Now’s your chance! Head to the sands of Kalat for an epic desert safari. Ride camels, surf down dunes, and sit by the fire under the stars. It's the Lawrence of A...

Doogh o Gooshfil

Food & Drink

Quench that thirst and satisfy your sweet tooth with a dynamic duo – Doogh o Gooshfil! Swig down some doogh, a fizzy yogurt drink, while munching on gooshfil, those deep-fried pastry ears drenched in ...

Carpet Diem at the Carpet Museum

Sights

Seize the day at Mashhad's Carpet Museum! Marvel at intricate patterns and colors that tell a thousand stories. It's like walking on the pages of a history book, if history was soft, ornate, and oh so...

Bask in Blue at Goharshad Mosque

Sights

Ever wondered what swimming in a sea of tiles would feel like? Goharshad Mosque's got you covered with waves upon waves of stunning blue tiles. Splash in the beauty, no swimsuit required!

Sweet Treats at the Chocolate Museum

Sights

For a sugar rush minus the cavities, take a tour of Mashhad's Chocolate Museum. It's a Willy Wonka's factory minus the Oompa Loompas - chocoholics, you've been warned!

A Botanical Stroll in Bagh-e Jahan Nama

Sights

Wanna know what chillin' Persian style is like? Saunter through Bagh-e Jahan Nama, and let the symphony of plants, trees, and water streams play background music to your leisurely walk.

Whirling Dervish Performance

Sights

Get your twirl on by witnessing the hypnotic dance of the Whirling Dervishes. This spiritual showdown is all about dizzying swirls that'll make you go 'Whoa, is this Earth still spinning?'

Zereshk Polo ba Morgh

Food & Drink

Feast like royalty with a Persian classic, Zereshk Polo ba Morgh! This regal dish brings together the tang of barberries, the luxury of saffron, and the comfort of tender chicken. Served atop fluffy r...

Ash-e Shooli

Food & Drink

Warm up your soul with a bowl of Ash-e Shooli, Mashhad's comfort food at its finest! This vibrant, herb-packed soup is a taste explosion with its mix of spinach, parsley, coriander, and a dash of yogu...

Kashk e Bademjan

Food & Drink

Dip into the smoky goodness of Kashk e Bademjan! This eggplant-based delight is a creamy mash-up topped with whey, fried onions, and mint. It's the ultimate comfort food turned dip!

Mystical Melodies at a Traditional Music House

The Unexpected

Immerse your ears in the soul-stirring sounds of traditional Persian music at one of Mashhad's cozy music houses. Sip on tea, nibble on some nuts, and let the tar and setar strings tug at your heartst...