Overview
Qazvin was an ancient capital in the Persian Empire and now is known as the calligraphy capital of Iran, home to the famous calligrapher Mir Emad Qazvini. The city serves as a practical base for visiting the legendary Alamut castle, once the headquarters of the medieval Assassins order.
Architecture · Culture · Day Trips · History · Trekking
Before you go
Connectivity
Contact your embassy in Tehran for consular assistance. Local tourist information centers available in Qazvin.
Culture
Women should dress modestly and cover their hair. Many local women wear thin, brightly coloured scarves rather than full black hejab. Respect local customs while expressing yourself through colours and materials.
Health
Drink bottled water only. Restaurants are accommodating regarding dietary restrictions and allergies.
Money
Prices in listings range from 450,000 to 2,000,000 Iranian rials for budget accommodation. Credit cards have limited acceptance outside major cities.
Safety
Generally safe for tourists. Standard urban precautions apply. Emergency police: 110.
Transport
Qazvin has a railway station for train connections. Road routes connect to Tehran (east) and Maku (west). Taxis available for local transport.
Weather
Mountainous region with cooler summers than Tehran (max 35°C). Spring and fall offer the best climate—warm and breezy.