What to see & do with your IDP in Iran?
With your International Driving Permit in hand, Iran becomes a vast and inviting landscape for road trip adventurers. From the cool forests of the north to the desert heartland, driving in Iran offers unmatched access to some of the country’s most scenic and culturally rich destinations. Here are just a few unforgettable routes to consider:
1. The Tehran to Kashan Route (Via Qom)
Leave the bustle of the capital behind and head south toward Kashan, a desert city known for its rose gardens and ornate historical homes. Along the way, stop in Qom, one of Iran’s holiest cities. Kashan itself offers architectural marvels like the Tabatabaei House and the ancient Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse. Driving here gives you the freedom to pause at hidden roadside teahouses and capture sweeping desert views.
2. The Caspian Coast Drive (Rasht to Ramsar)
For a lush change of scenery, head north toward the Caspian Sea. The road between Rasht and Ramsar is lined with rice paddies, citrus groves, and charming mountain villages. With an IDP, you can rent a car in Rasht and leisurely explore coastal towns at your own pace. Don’t miss Anzali Lagoon for a peaceful boat ride or Masuleh for its picturesque stepped architecture.
3. The Shiraz to Persepolis Loop
Persepolis, once the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, lies just an hour outside Shiraz. This iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site is easily accessible by car and well worth a detour. With your IDP, you can rent a vehicle in Shiraz and explore ancient ruins, nearby tombs like Naqsh-e Rustam, and enjoy the scenic ride through Iran’s rugged southern terrain.
4. Western Mountain Passes near Kermanshah
For experienced drivers, the roads west of Kermanshah offer thrilling hairpin turns and dramatic mountain landscapes. Drive through gorges, visit the Bisotun World Heritage Site, and stop at roadside bakeries offering hot flatbread from clay ovens. Your IDP ensures you’ll meet rental and legal requirements, even in more remote areas.
5. Isfahan to Yazd Desert Drive
This journey connects two of Iran’s most iconic cities through a dramatic stretch of desert. Stop at the ancient caravanserais and mud-brick villages that line the route. A self-driven trip with your IDP allows you to take your time, avoiding rushed tour schedules and enabling spontaneous discoveries off the main road.
An International Driving Permit not only allows you to rent a car legally but also gives you the freedom to shape your itinerary in a country where every road leads to a story.