2.5 h (Swiss winter time); + 1.5 h (Swiss summer time)

Teheran

Official language

Persian

Language capabilities

English, German and French

220 volt / adapter recommended

Banks

8.00 - 14.00 h (Sat - Wed)
8.00 - 12.00 h (Thu)
Opening hours may vary. Friday is the official day of rest in Iran, comparable to Sunday in Western countries, and banks are closed.

Shops

9.00/10.00 - 21.00 h (Sat - Thu)
14.00/15.00 - 21.00 h (Fri)
Opening hours vary by region. Shops in larger cities and tourist areas may have more flexible opening hours, particularly in shopping centres, which often remain open until late in the evening.

Most public holidays in Iran are religious and follow the Islamic lunar calendar, so they fall on a different date in the Gregorian calendar each year. This lunar calendar has 354 or 355 days per year, causing the holidays to occur approximately 10 to 12 days earlier each year.

• Variable date: Father’s Day and birthday of Imam Ali
• Variable date: Ascension of the Prophet
• 11 February: Revolution Day
• Variable date: Birthday of Imam Mahdi
• 19 or 20 March: Oil Nationalisation Day
• 20 or 21 March: Nowruz (Persian New Year; four consecutive public holidays)
• 31 March or 1 April: Islamic Republic Day
• 1 or 2 April: Sizdah Bedar (Nature Day)
• Variable date: Martyrdom of Imam Ali
• Variable date: Eid-e-Fetr (festival marking the end of the fast)
• Variable date: Eid-e-Fetr (additional public holiday)
• Variable date: Martyrdom of Imam Sadeq
• 3 or 4 June: Anniversary of the death of Ayatollah Khomeini
• 4 or 5 June: Anniversary of the 15 Khordad uprising
• Variable date: Eid-e-Ghorban (Festival of Sacrifice)
• Variable date: Eid-e-Ghadir
• Variable date: Tassoua
• Variable date: Ashura
• Variable date: Arbaeen
• Variable date: Anniversary of the death of the Prophet and martyrdom of Imam Hassan
• Variable date: Martyrdom of Imam Reza
• Variable date: Martyrdom of Imam Hasan al-Askari
• Variable date: Birthday of the Prophet and Imam Sadeq
• Variable date: Martyrdom of Hazrat Fatima

The FDFA advises against travel to this country.

• Travel documents must be valid for at least another 6 months on entry.

• Passengers must hold a valid visa issued by Iran. Passengers can obtain an e-visa before departure at https://e_visa.mfa.ir/en/. They must have a printed e-visa confirmation. Visa applications with the status “Awaiting review” are not accepted. Passengers must present a printed copy of the approval notice at the airport’s visa-on-arrival counter.

• Visitors holding a visa must have a return or onward flight ticket.
• Passengers must hold a yellow fever vaccination certificate if they have stayed in any of the following countries or territories during the past 6 days: Angola, Argentina, Benin, Bolivia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Chad, Colombia, Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, French Guiana, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Guyana, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Suriname, Togo, Trinidad and Tobago, Uganda or Venezuela.

– Information last updated in September 2026 –

Northern Iran (Caspian Sea and Alborz Mountains)

• Summer (June to August): Summers in this region are warm and humid, with average temperatures between 25°C and 32°C. Due to the proximity of the Caspian Sea, humidity is very high, and occasional rainfall may occur, particularly in the west.
• Winter (December to February): Winters in northern Iran are cool to mild. Temperatures range from 2°C to 10°C. Snow falls at higher elevations in the Alborz Mountains, while precipitation along the coast is generally rain.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, September to November): Temperatures are mild, ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This is a very pleasant time to travel, with lower humidity and moderate rainfall.

Central Iran (desert areas such as Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut)

• Summer (June to August): Summers in the central desert regions are extremely hot and dry. Daytime temperatures can rise to 40°C–50°C, then fall sharply at night, often to 20°C or below. Rainfall is virtually non-existent.
• Winter (December to February): Winters in central Iran are cold, particularly at night. Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C, but may fall to freezing point at night. Conditions are dry and rainfall is rare.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, September to November): During these transitional seasons, temperatures are more moderate, ranging from 20°C to 30°C. These are the most pleasant seasons in the desert regions, with comfortable warmth and cool nights.

Western Iran (Zagros Mountains)

• Summer (June to August): Summers at higher elevations in the Zagros Mountains are pleasant, with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. Lower elevations can be hotter, reaching up to 35°C. Conditions remain largely dry.
• Winter (December to February): Winter temperatures in the Zagros Mountains are cold, often between -5°C and 10°C. Snowfall is frequent at higher elevations, while the valleys receive less snow.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, September to November): Temperatures are mild to cool, with average values between 10°C and 25°C. Occasional rain occurs in spring, particularly in April and May.

Southern Iran (Persian Gulf coast)

• Summer (June to August): Summers on the Persian Gulf coast are extremely hot and humid. Temperatures reach 35°C–45°C, with very high humidity. This is one of Iran’s hottest regions during the summer months.
• Winter (December to February): Winters are mild to warm, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. This is the most pleasant time to visit the coastal region, and rainfall is very limited.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, September to November): Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C, and humidity remains high. Rainfall is limited, but occasional storms may occur.

Eastern Iran (borders with Afghanistan and Pakistan)

• Summer (June to August): Summers in eastern Iran are hot and dry, with temperatures between 30°C and 40°C. Higher elevations may be slightly cooler, but the region generally remains dry and desert-like.
• Winter (December to February): Winters are cold, especially at night, when temperatures can fall to 0°C. During the day, they often reach 10°C–20°C. Rainfall is very limited.
• Spring/autumn (March to May, September to November): Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, and the climate is pleasant. There is very little rain, and the air remains dry.

The best time to travel to Iran:

• Beach holidays: In terms of climate, the summer months are particularly suitable for the Caspian Sea. On the Persian Gulf coast, autumn, winter and spring are more pleasant; summers are very hot and humid.
• City trips: March to May, Sept. to Nov. Spring and autumn are ideal for city trips, as temperatures in cities such as Tehran, Isfahan and Shiraz are mild. Cities can become very hot during the summer months.
• Winter holidays: Dec. to Feb. The ski areas in the Alborz and Zagros Mountains offer good conditions for winter sports enthusiasts. Ski resorts such as Dizin and Shemshak have ideal snow conditions during these months.

• Mobile phone use: Swiss SIM cards only work to a limited extent in Iran. Using a mobile phone in Iran incurs roaming charges. It is advisable to check roaming rates before travelling and, if necessary, purchase specific roaming packages to reduce costs.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is now available in many hotels, restaurants, cafés and public areas, although it is often slower than in Europe. Internet access is restricted. Websites and services may be blocked, and connections may be throttled or completely interrupted. Even with a VPN, reliable access is not guaranteed.
• Prepaid SIM cards: It is possible to buy a prepaid SIM card locally to make local calls and use mobile data. There are several mobile network operators in Iran, including Irancell and Hamrah-e Aval.

• Persepolis, Shiraz: The ancient ruins of Persepolis, the former capital of the Achaemenid Empire, are among Iran’s most impressive historical sites and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque, Shiraz: This mosque, also known as the “Pink Mosque”, is famous for its colourful stained-glass windows and impressive interior architecture.
• Golestan Palace, Tehran: This magnificent palace complex from the Qajar dynasty, with elaborate gardens and richly decorated halls, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Imam Square (Naqsh-e Jahan), Isfahan: One of the largest squares in the world, surrounded by historic buildings such as the Imam Mosque and Ali Qapu Palace, and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Isfahan: An impressive mosque with one of the most beautiful domes in Islamic architecture, renowned for its intricate tilework.
• Tabriz Bazaar: One of the world’s largest and oldest covered bazaars, offering traditional goods and crafts, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Towers of Silence, Yazd: These historic Zoroastrian burial sites, situated on hills, offer fascinating insights into funerary traditions.
• Jameh Mosque, Yazd: The historic Friday mosque is renowned for its monumental entrance portal, two tall minarets and elaborate tilework. Its present appearance developed mainly from the 14th century onwards.
• Imam Mosque (also known as Shah Mosque or Masjed-e Shah), Isfahan: This splendid mosque with its large blue dome is a highlight of Persian architecture.
• Ali-Sadr Cave, Hamadan: One of the world’s largest water caves, which can be explored by boat and features fascinating stalactites and stalagmites.
• Qom Shrine, Qom: The shrine of Fatima Masumeh, an important Shia figure, attracts numerous pilgrims and impresses visitors with its magnificent dome.
• Eram Garden, Shiraz: This Persian garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its beautiful cypress trees and elaborate design.
• Shahr-e Sukhteh (the Burnt City), Sistan and Baluchestan Province: One of Iran’s most important archaeological sites, dating back to 3,200 BC.
• Kandovan, near Tabriz: A picturesque rock village whose houses are carved into volcanic rock, similar to those in Cappadocia.
• Darband, Tehran: A popular recreational area at the foot of the Alborz Mountains, ideal for hiking and traditional Iranian restaurants.

Here is a brief overview of Iran’s gastronomic and culinary specialities:

• Persian rice (polo): Rice is a staple food in Iran and is prepared with great skill. A typical speciality is “tahdig”, the crispy crust at the bottom of the rice pot, which is considered a delicacy.
• Kebabs: Various types of kebabs, such as “kubideh” (minced meat skewers) and “jujeh” (chicken skewers), are among the most popular dishes, often served with rice and grilled tomatoes.
• Khoresht (stews): Rich, slow-cooked dishes such as “fesenjan” (pomegranate and walnut stew) and “ghormeh sabzi” (herb stew with meat) are typical of Iranian cuisine and are usually served with rice.
• Saffron: This precious spice is used in many Iranian dishes, particularly rice dishes, desserts and tea. Iran is one of the world’s largest saffron producers.
• Torshi and sabzi: Pickled vegetables (torshi) and fresh herbs (sabzi) are essential accompaniments served with almost every meal, adding freshness and acidity.
• Bread (nan): Different types of bread, such as “sangak” (flatbread baked on hot stones) and “lavash”, are central to every meal and are often eaten alongside stews or cheese.
• Dolmeh: Vine leaves, peppers or tomatoes stuffed with rice, herbs and sometimes meat are popular starters or side dishes in Iranian cuisine.
• Persian sweets: Popular desserts such as “baklava”, “zulbia” (fried dough rings) and “gaz” (a type of nougat) are sweet treats often flavoured with rose water, saffron or pistachios.
• Sharbat: These traditional syrup-like drinks are often diluted with water and made from fruit or flowers, for example using rose water. They are particularly refreshing in summer.

• Greetings: A handshake is often expected when greeting someone, although not always between men and women; in this case, a nod or a smile is often sufficient. Common expressions include “Salam” (hello) and “Dorood” (greetings). At more formal meetings, people say “Salam aleikom” (peace be upon you).
• Saying please and thank you: Politeness plays an important role in Iran. “Lotfan” means “please”, while “Merci” (of French origin, but commonly used) or “Motashakkeram” means “thank you”. “Kheili mamnoon” (thank you very much) is especially polite.
• Clothing: In public, women must follow the applicable Islamic dress regulations, including wearing a headscarf and long, loose clothing covering their arms and legs. Men should wear long trousers and avoid sleeveless tops. Modest clothing is also expected in tourist areas.
• Dining customs: It is customary to offer an invitation first, even when no guests are expected (known as taarof). People are expected to politely decline food and drinks when first offered and only accept after a further offer. The right hand is preferred for eating, and shoes should be removed in private homes.
• Smoking: Smoking is often prohibited in public areas, and designated smoking areas are provided.
• Tipping: Tipping is not compulsory in Iran, but is often appreciated. In restaurants, around 10 % of the bill is appropriate. Taxi drivers, hotel staff and tour guides also appreciate a small tip.
• Other: Politeness and restraint are important virtues in everyday Iranian life. The concept of “taarof” is often used in conversation: a formal offer of courtesies is declined several times out of politeness before being accepted. Photographing government buildings, military facilities and police officers is prohibited.

• Drinking water quality: For drinking, preferably use water from bottles with their original seals intact or water that has been sufficiently boiled. Tap water quality can vary locally. Where water quality is uncertain, also use safe water to brush your teeth and avoid ice cubes.

• Vaccinations: As a rule, no specific vaccinations are required for travellers entering Iran. However, travellers are advised to keep their routine vaccinations up to date, particularly those against diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A, polio and measles. Vaccination against hepatitis A is also recommended. Seek individual travel medicine advice about other vaccinations, such as those against rabies or hepatitis B.
• Malaria risk: There is a moderate risk of malaria in parts of Sistan and Baluchestan Province near the Pakistani border. The risk is low in the rest of this province and in parts of Hormozgan and Kerman. Consistent mosquito protection is important. Consult a travel medicine specialist to determine whether your itinerary requires medication for emergency self-treatment.
• Mosquito protection: Mosquitoes can transmit malaria and dengue fever in some regions. Protect yourself during the day and at night with suitable insect repellents, long clothing and mosquito nets where needed. Mosquitoes that transmit dengue are mainly active during the day.

• Due to Iran’s currently volatile political and economic situation, medical care is not consistently reliable. In major cities such as Tehran, specialised clinics are generally operational and offer a wide range of services, but outside these centres medical infrastructure is often basic, with limited technical equipment and hygiene standards. Problems with electricity, water or medical supplies can occur even in hospitals. Non-residents are often required to make advance payments. In critical cases, evacuation abroad may be considered.
• Comprehensive insurance covering medical treatment abroad and repatriation, a well-stocked travel medical kit and a medical consultation before travelling are particularly important in the current situation.

– Information last updated in September 2026 –

• Before and during your trip, follow media reports on the current situation and stay in contact with your tour operator.

• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

• Travel to Iran is discouraged.
• The risk of escalation remains very high throughout the region.
• The airspace may be completely closed and airports may shut down.
• Supply shortages may occur. Telephone and Internet connections are frequently interrupted. This also applies to services such as WhatsApp, Instagram and VPNs.
• Foreign travellers face a significant risk of being arrested, questioned and detained without an apparent reason; lengthy prison sentences may be imposed. Arrests of foreign travellers have increased.
• In detention cases, the Iranian authorities allow Switzerland to provide consular protection only to a limited extent or not at all. In many cases, the Iranian authorities do not inform foreign embassies of the arrest, charges or location of detained individuals. The risk of arrest also applies to Swiss nationals and people with dual Iranian-Swiss citizenship. Dual nationals are regarded as Iranian citizens.
• For Swiss nationals currently in Iran: Find out locally about transport options. Follow the instructions of the local authorities and take the necessary precautions.
• If you wish to leave the country, use the available commercial means of transport.
• The decision to leave the country is voluntary and is taken at the departing person’s own risk and expense.
• Stay in contact with your family.
• Swiss nationals who decide to remain in the country or travel to Iran despite the FDFA’s recommendation must be aware that Switzerland may, in some circumstances, have only limited means of providing assistance in an emergency.
• Keep up to date with developments. Limit travel within the country to the essential minimum and check the security situation beforehand.

– Information last updated in October 2026 –

• Driving licence: An international driving permit is mandatory. It is only valid locally together with your national driving licence and is available from TCS contact points or the road traffic office in your canton of residence.

• Car hire: The minimum age varies by rental company and vehicle category. Before booking, enquire about the age requirements and the minimum period for which you must have held your driving licence. Vehicles with a driver can be hired.
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.0 ‰.
• Other: Avoid driving at night.

• Long-distance trains: Iran has a well-developed railway network connecting many larger cities. Long-distance trains are comfortable and offer different classes, from standard seats to sleeping cars. Trains are an affordable and comfortable option for longer journeys, particularly on popular routes such as Tehran–Mashhad and Tehran–Shiraz.
• Regional trains: Regional trains serve smaller towns and suburbs, but are less common than long-distance trains. They are often slower but offer an affordable way to travel within the regions. Timetables may, however, be irregular.
• Buses: Long-distance buses are one of the most popular and affordable ways to travel in Iran. There are two categories: “VIP” buses, which are more comfortable and modern, and standard buses. The network is extensive, and almost every city is well served by bus connections. Buses generally run on time and are also suitable for overnight travel.
• Metro: Larger cities such as Tehran, Mashhad and Shiraz have well-developed metro systems, providing a quick and inexpensive way to travel around the city. Tehran also has separate women-only carriages.
• Tickets: Train and bus tickets can be purchased at railway stations, bus stations or online. Metro systems offer single tickets and rechargeable cards. Buying tickets in advance is recommended, especially during holiday periods.
• Other: Public transport in Iran is generally reliable and affordable. Women can often use separate compartments or areas on buses and trains. English-language announcements are rare, so basic knowledge of Persian or a navigation app may be useful.

• Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA), Tehran.
• Shiraz International Airport (SYZ), Shiraz.
• Mashhad International Airport (MHD), Mashhad.

The main airlines operating in Iran are Iran Air, Mahan Air, Kish Air, Aseman Airlines and Qeshm Air.

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

• Police: 110
• Ambulance: 115
• Fire brigade: 125
• Roadside assistance: 09629 or 021-6423

Embassy of Switzerland
No. 2 Yasaman Street
Sharifi Manesh Ave.
Elahieh
19649-63751 Tehran

Tel.: +98 21 2200 8333
Email: tehran@eda.admin.ch

Natural hazards

• The country is located in an active earthquake zone.

Specific legal provisions

• Possession, transport and consumption of alcohol are prohibited.
• Photographing people in uniform, military facilities and public buildings or infrastructure (airports, bridges, etc.) is prohibited.
• Drug laws are very strict (penalties include life imprisonment and the death penalty).

– Information last updated in October 2026 –