Cheap Flights to Shiraz Jazeera Airways Tickets from KWD 11*

Discover Shiraz, Iran

The ancient city of Shiraz lies across a lush plain bordered by the rolling Zagros Mountains. Capital of the Fars Province and viewed as the cultural capital of Iran, this outstandingly beautiful city has served as inspiration for some of our greatest poets and philosophers. Known as the city of flowers and nightingales, Shiraz enchants visitors with tranquil gardens headily scented with roses and the ethereal scent of orange blossom. The city's architecture is breathtaking too, with ornate mosques gracing the cityscape at every turn.

Though the city dates back to 2000 BCE, today, this attractive urban destination boasts a distinctly modern and energetic buzz with a vibrant café culture. A city known for its warmth and hospitality, Shiraz has plenty to offer the gourmand, with a wide variety of restaurants serving both traditional Iranian and international cuisine.

Fly to captivating Shiraz with Jazeera Airways, and be rewarded with a feast for all your senses. A city brimming with cultural attractions, bustling markets, and the irresistible scent of sweet pastries from local bakeries, you’ll relish an urban break like no other, basking in warm temperatures in this leafy garden city.

Nasir al-Mulk Mosque

Also known as the Pink Mosque, Nasir al-Mulk dates back to the 18th century. After admiring the grandeur of the arabesque arches, enter the breathtaking interior of the mosque, following respectful protocols, to be greeted by a magical glow of soft pink light as the sun streams through the colourful stained-glass windows. Traditional Persian rugs in rich red hues carpet the floors, while the columns and vaulted ceilings wow with their intricate painted tile mosaics. Wander out to the large courtyard and find a tranquil pool sparkling in the sunlight, surrounded by pots of scented flowers. For the ultimate atmospheric experience, visit the mosque early in the morning.

Bagh-e Eram

A UNESCO-listed site, Eram Garden is lovingly referred to as the Garden of Paradise, and a visit to this peaceful oasis will soon reveal why. Established in the 19th century around a Qajar-era palace and pool, these dreamy gardens are now under the stewardship of the University of Shiraz. Find cool and fragrant shade among the orange groves and towering cypress trees, and relax next to the soporific fountains and water features.

Tomb of Hafez

Literary buffs will be wowed with a visit to the tomb of the highly regarded 14th-century poet, Hafez. This shrine to Iran's beloved writer is a complex of monuments in Quran Gate – the northern entrance to Shiraz. This tomb's first elements were built in 1425, with further additions and renovations taking place over the centuries. Two courtyards house the tomb and memorials and sit within two acres of manicured garden, creating a serene spot for contemplation.

Maharloo Lake

Take a day trip out of the city, travelling just 17 miles southeast to the mineral-rich, Maharloo salt lake. As the summer progresses and the Iranian heat evaporates water from this highland lake, increasing the salt concentrations, a deep pink colouration can be observed as an algal bloom causes a red tide. Offering an otherworldly ambience, you’ll capture wonderful photographs from the sprawling salt plains of this limpid, dusky pink lake.

Shopping

Shiraz offers a diverse retail scene, with glossy contemporary malls for high-street and luxury purchases and traditional bazaars laden with Persian delights. The city is home to numerous modern shopping malls, blending a mix of designer brands, independent boutiques, cafés, restaurants, and entertainment attractions such as cinemas and arcades. The Zeytoon, Hamoon, and Setareh Fars malls are popular examples, notable for their friendly, English-speaking staff. A trip to the gorgeous Vakil Bazaar gives visitors the opportunity to buy authentic fabrics and souvenirs (including delicious sweet biscuits such as kaak), all set within the stunning Iranian architecture of this charming market.

Food And Drink

Persian cuisine rules supreme in Shiraz, though you’ll also find continental options thanks to this university city's diverse demographic. Traditional Iranian dishes are centred around spiced meats and vegetables, served with fluffy rice, with kalam polow being one of the most popular examples. You’ll also enjoy juicy kebabs, refreshing Shirazi salads, and be sure to try the breakfast soup, ash sabzi.

Satisfy your sweet tooth with some Shirazi faloode – a silky ice cream blended with perfumed rosewater syrup. Warm and comforting, ranginak is a date-filled dessert cake infused with cinnamon and cardamom and topped with pistachios.

Pre-Islamic revolution, Iran had a wine-making tradition centred on Shiraz, but current rules prohibit the production or consumption of alcoholic drinks. There are, however, a range of delicious non-alcoholic drinks to sample, including hot spicy chai and delicately perfumed damask rose beverages.