photo by Behrouz Alimardani
Public transportation in Iran is extensive, affordable and reliable. Buses, trains, metros, shared taxis, ferries and domestic flights connect nearly every major destination, and moving between cities without a private vehicle is straightforward. Remote attractions such as desert areas or national parks require private taxis or tours.
Iranian online booking platforms require local identification or an Iranian bank account and are therefore not usable by foreigners. Travelers can buy tickets directly at stations, through hotel staff, or via local agencies.
Long-Distance Buses
Long-Distance Buses are the main way of travel in Iran. The bus network is extensive and tickets are inexpensive. VIP buses (2+1 seating) offer wide reclining seats, air-conditioning, snacks and USB chargers. Reservations are usually unnecessary except during holidays. Tickets can be bought at terminals.
Bus schedule (in Farsi, you can use translator): https://www.alibaba.ir/bus-ticket
Trains
Iran’s train network connects most major cities. Travel by train is slower than by bus or car, but allows to explore the country in a more scenic way. Sleeper trains are available for longer routes. Tickets tend to sell out quickly, especially during holidays. You can try to buying tickets at the train station counter or through an agency.
Train schedule (in Farsi, you can use translator): https://www.alibaba.ir/train-ticket
Metros & City Buses
Tehran, Mashhad, Shiraz, Tabriz and Isfahan have a metro network. Women-only carriages exist but are optional. City buses are frequent and cheap, though often crowded during peak hours. Payment is made with metro cards or cash. The public transportation option on Googe Maps or other western apps do not work. There are Iranian alternative with which you can find bus and metro options from place A to B. However, even those are not 100% reliable. Most travellers simply take a taxi since the price is very low.
- Neshan App with public transportation option: Android & iOS
- Balad App with public transportation option: Android & iOS
Shared Taxis & Private Taxis
Shared taxis (savaris) run fixed routes and are often the fastest short-distance option. Private taxis, known as “dar-bast,” are widely available but require negotiation unless using a ride-hailing app. Snapp is the Iranian Uber, working in all major cities. It can be used by paying in cash without the need for an Iranian bank card.
Domestic Flights
Domestic Flights are frequent and relatively inexpensive. Due to the large size of the country, taking flights in Iran can make a lot of sense when you want to cover long distances or are on a tight schedule. Domestic tickets cannot be bought by foreigners directly or on any international booking pages, only through an agency.
Flight schedule (in Farsi, you can use translator): https://www.alibaba.ir
