Things to Do in Persepolis

Gate of All Nations

First, make your way up the monumental stairway to the Gate of All Nations, where the colossal stone bulls with human heads stand silent guard. You can almost hear the rustle of robes and the murmur of delegations from across the empire that once passed beneath these massive lintels. This is a decent indication of the power and reach of the Achaemenid kings.

Apadana Palace Bas-Reliefs

Spend time with the famous bas-reliefs on the Apadana Palace terrace, tracing the detailed carvings of gift-bearing dignitaries with your eyes. You will see the texture of feathers on tribute birds and the folds in the robes of the Median and Persian soldiers, all under the bright, unforgiving sun.

Naqsh-e Rustam Royal Tombs

A walk through the royal tombs carved high into the cliff face at nearby Naqsh-e Rustam is unexpectedly impressive. You will hear your own footsteps echo in the quiet canyon as you look up at the stark, cross-shaped facades towering overhead, feeling the solemn weight of history in the cool shade they cast.

Overlooked Details and Museum

Seek out the smaller, often overlooked details, like the well-preserved cuneiform inscriptions on the doorjambs of the Tachara, or the colorful glazed brick fragments displayed in the on-site museum. Running your fingers over the etched script gives you a tangible connection to the builders.

Quiet Contemplation at Hundred-Column Hall

Allow yourself simply to sit on one of the great stone blocks near the Hundred-Column Hall and watch the changing light play across the platform. You will feel a dry, warm breeze and hear the distant sound of a car on the road below, a reminder of the modern world just beyond the archaeological zone.

Stay central. The historic center near the Vakil Bazaar places you amid the sizzle of teahouses and the scent of spice shops, a lively base for multiple days.

The newer districts north of the Khoshk River offer quieter, modern hotels that are a short taxi ride from the old center.

For a uniquely tranquil experience, some traditional courtyard houses in the old alleys near the Shah Cheragh shrine have been converted into guesthouses, where you will wake to the sound of birds in a private garden.

The area around the Quran Gate provides breezy views over the city.

The university district buzzes with a younger, local energy and affordable eateries.

Go upscale. Lastly, a handful of resort-style hotels on the outskirts offer pools and large grounds, representing the top end of the scale for the region.