Iran is a large country between the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, and the Caspian Sea. It is bordered by Iraq to the west, Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan to the northwest, Turkmenistan to the northeast, and Afghanistan and Pakistan to the east. Iran, the wellspring of one of the world's great civilizations, is a country of striking natural beauty and gorgeous places.
Tehran is the capital of Iran, in the north of the country, hugging the lower slopes of the magnificent, snowcapped Alborz Mountains. Exploring this fascinating metropolis will transport you on a journey through more than 250 years of Tehran history – from the glittering Golestan Palace, with its ornate rooms and marble throne, and the adjacent Grand Bazaar to the beautiful Azadi and Milad Towers that offer panoramic views over the city. Then there are the city's many excellent museums and serene gardens. In such places, as well as in contemporary cafes, traditional teahouses and on the walking trails in the mountains, you can relax and enjoy all that's good about Tehran.