Tehran Palaces, what to see (Part 3)

Tehran has a long history as the capital of Iran. Many rulers and officials built stunning palaces and recreational homes throughout this time. This article takes you along the city’s three most famous palaces and another hidden gem. From background information to practical tips and suggested side activities, it guides your way through Tehran’s royal residences!

After covering Golestan Palace in part one and the Saadabad Palace complex in part two, it’s now time for the last, but definitely not least, of the three most famous palaces in Tehran: Niavaran Palace. For those who cannot get enough of royal glory, we’ve added another city gem that will surely leave you in awe.

Niavaran Palace Complex

Similar to Saadabad, the Niavaran palace complex served as a summer residence for royal family members during both the Qajar and Pahlavi eras. The complex includes seven palaces open as museums and a large garden with fountains and tall cedar trees. Located in the north at the foot of the Alborz mountains, it offers a cool shelter from the city’s heat. The garden is an excellent place to enjoy a relaxed stroll and escape the city’s busy atmosphere.

Most old buildings were demolished during the Pahlavi reign. Because of this, the newer palaces have a modern appearance. However, the main palace’s interior remains posh and extravagant. You will find exquisite furniture, expensive carpets—including the famous Mashahir carpet that represents 109 Iranian kings and influential people—and long dining tables with fancy chairs.

Having served as the main summer palace for the last royal family, the Niavaran palace complex offers unique insights into their private lives. For example, you can visit the Shah’s children’s room, designed with a modern style, and view Shah Mohammad Reza’s formal clothing on display.

Other museums include the Saheb-Qaraniyeh Palace, notable for its remarkable appearance and luxurious interior with colored stained-glass windows and dazzling mirror work. The Jahan Nama museum features rich interior work as well as modern and ancient art. There is also a two-floor private library of former queen Farah Pahlavi.

Practical Information:

The complex is open daily. In summer and spring, hours are 09:00–19:00. In autumn and winter, 08:00–17:00. It closes only on religious holidays. Tickets can be bought until one hour before closing.

The general ticket price is 150,000 Rial. For other museums, including the main palace, prices vary between 150,000 and 80,000 Rial. The complex also has a good café serving great coffee and breakfast.

The complex, located at Niavaran Square, is not directly accessible by public transportation. You can take a taxi directly or take metro line 1 (red line) to Tajrish station and then take a taxi. Using Snap or Uber can save on taxi fares.

Daytrip Tip

Similar to the day trips mentioned in part two of the palace series, a visit to Niavaran Palace can be combined with a visit to the traditional Tajrish Bazaar and the Imamzadeh Saleh shrine. Both are within walking distance from Tajrish Metro Station.

You can also visit Darband, a popular area full of restaurants. It’s further from Saadabad Palace but still a great option to satisfy your taste buds.

Treasury of National Jewels

Not a palace but still royal, the Treasury of National Jewels museum is another gem. Hidden in the vaults of the Central Bank on Ferdowsi Avenue, it houses extravagant items and jewelry with thousands of diamonds and precious stones worth billions. This dazzling collection reveals some of Iran’s most expensive treasures, historical wealth, and glory. The museum forbids photos inside. Visitors must hand in electronics before entering.

The museum is open Saturday to Tuesday from 14:00 to 16:30. Visiting requires some planning. It is about a 20-minute walk from Imam Khomeini Metro Station (lines 1 and 2). Entrance fee is 200,000 Rial.

Visiting some of Tehran’s palaces is an absolute must during your stay. For more inspiration about beautiful places in Iran, check out this page.