Golestan Palace

Golestan Palace is the dazzling former royal complex at the heart of old Tehran, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Qajar-era art that fuses traditional Persian craftsmanship with European influences. Behind its walls lies a series of opulent halls and pavilions around a garden: the Hall of Mirrors with its shimmering mirror-mosaic interiors, the Marble Throne veranda, the Edifice of the Sun, and rooms encrusted with intricate tilework, painted ceilings, and stained glass. The exuberant tiled facades alone, vivid scenes and patterns in glazed colour, are extraordinary.

It's the finest historical sight in Tehran, an oasis of artistry amid the busy bazaar district. Tickets are sold per building, so you can choose which pavilions to enter. Allow a couple of hours, and don't miss the garden, the Hall of Mirrors, and the tiled exteriors.

Don't miss

• The shimmering Hall of Mirrors
• The Marble Throne veranda
• Exuberant glazed-tile facades and courtyards
• Painted ceilings, stained glass, and Qajar artistry
• The central garden oasis

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Golestan Palace

Cheapest way inPrivate Full-Day Gobustan and Absheron Tour4.7★ · 11 travelers~9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$8 per personSee dates →Most bookedLegendary Venice: Doge's Palace, St Mark's & VIP Terrace Access4.7★ · 5,694 travelers2-3 hoursFrom$83 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleGobustan and Absheron Private Tour5★ · 22 travelers~7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$50 per personSee dates →

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Getting there

Know before you go

• Tickets are per building, decide which pavilions (e.g. Hall of Mirrors) you want to enter.
• Even the tiled exteriors and garden are spectacular if you limit interior tickets.
• Go in the morning to beat heat and crowds.
• It's in the bazaar district, combine with a wander through the Grand Bazaar.

A bit of history

Golestan ('Rose Garden') Palace was the seat of the Qajar dynasty, developed especially in the 19th century as the royal residence and ceremonial centre. It blends Persian and Western styles and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.