The oldest city of ancient Persia, Shiraz is regarded as the cultural capital of Iran and the city of poetry, gardens and love. The sixth most populated city of Iran, Shiraz is famous for its laidback atmosphere as well as its many historical and natural sites.

This enchantress of a city leaves all visitors enamored with its attractions ranging from the ruins of the ancient Achaemenid capital in Persepolis, its necropolis Naqsh-e Rostam and the mysterious Cube of Zoroaster, the final resting place of Cyrus the Great in Pasargadae and the ruins of Bishapour to the lush Eram and Jahan Nama gardens, extravagant Qajar mansions like Zinat ol-Molouk and Qavam houses, striking Jame Atiq and Nasir Al-Mulk mosques and the historic Quran Gate.

In the 13th century, Shiraz was a leading center of the arts and sciences due to its many scholars and artists. The poet of love Hafez, whose poems have captured the hearts of many throughout the world, hailed from this city. The tombs of Hafez, Saadi, and Khwaju Kermani in the city are stunning structures erected in memory of these legendary bards.

Shiraz was the capital of Iran during the Zand Dynasty from 1750 to 1781. The Zand Royal District consisting of the Karim Khan Fortress, Vakil Mosque, Vakil Bazaar and Vakil Bath is a reminder from that era.

Shiraz is also home to Pouladkaf, Iran’s second largest ski resort, which draws skiers to its crisp mountain air and beautiful slopes from all over the Middle East from December to March.