The Best Boutique Hotels to Book in Iran

Visitors flock to Kashan to view the exquisite historical houses, but Saraya Ameriha Boutique Hotel also allows the opportunity to spend a restful night in a piece of history. Arguably the most beautiful of the city’s mansions, this 18th century residence was built by a one-time governor of Kashan and has since been restored to offer a luxurious experience with modern amenities, while still keeping the splendour of its former days. Wake up to sunlight gleaming through the stained glass windows and take a stroll through the romantic Persian garden before enjoying a glass of tea under the grand mirrored archways.

Nestled in the heart of one of Shiraz’s oldest quarters, Forough Boutique Hotel is a restored mansion with 18 pristine rooms detailed with fine Persian architecture and antiques. The lovely terraces, open courtyard, bubbling fountains, and elegant tiles are sure to offer a tranquil respite just 15 minutes away from bustling Vakil Bazaar. This gem is located just next door to Meshkinfam Museum of Art, which is also worth a stop for its collection of contemporary Iranian and local Shirazi art.

The 10 rooms of this renovated 800-year-old hotel don’t have numbers, but rather are named for the dominant colour of each room. Located in the historic village of Aqda, Khaloo Mirza Hotel offers an authentic Iranian accommodation, with some rooms so traditional that they have comfortable futon-like mattresses on the floor. The built-in shelves of the adobe walls are full of knick-knacks that are sure to make your stay enjoyable, as is the quaint little town of Aqda, before heading south to Yazd.

This 17th-century building is a historical house restored by Morteza Bekhradi in the early 2000s. Modern-day comfort and practicality have been taken into account alongside preservation of history to ensure a comfortable stay. Each of the four suites offers a royal experience with a touch of Safavid-era architecture. Whether you stay in the Ravagh suite with its arched ceilings and stained glass windows or the Hojreh suite with its brick walls and hand painted tiles, you’ll have an unforgettable time in this museum-like hotel in Iran.

Kianpour Historical House offers six rooms and suites in the Qajar-era style of architecture and art. Apart from its lovely restored traditional rooms with modern comfort, one of the most beautiful spaces is the restaurant and breakfast area which is adorned with mirrors and plasterwork, rivalling other such rooms around the country. The friendly staff and owner make their guests feel as though they are staying with family rather than in a hotel.

This charming 250-year-old house is located in one of Kashan’s oldest quarters. Restored as a hotel, the Iranian House now has five residential spaces and other facilities for tourists who visit this desert city. Although it may be simpler compared to some of the other historical boutique hotels in Iran, you’ll find friendly service as well as quiet, comfortable rooms with traditional yet chic decoration. Nesting birds at this location are a sure sign of tranquility and hospitality.

Moshir al-Mamalek Garden Hotel is a beautiful Qajar-era accommodation which has become a tourist attraction even for those who aren’t guests. The rooms have been designed and decorated in the traditional style while providing modern-day comfort. Known for serving some of the most delicious dishes in town, the dining hall is beautifully illuminated with light shining through the stained glass windows of the high domes. The friendly staff and colourful parrots who call this hotel home will surely make for an exceptional stay.