If you’ve got a layover in Daran, don’t let it go to waste sitting at IFH. The city, in Iran, is within easy reach — roughly 45 minutes by Taxi/Shared Taxi. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside IFH
Three things to verify before you walk out of IFH:
- Can you legally enter Iran? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 45-minute journey each way by Taxi/Shared Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the IRR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some IRR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Hesa Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Hesa Airport into town:
- Taxi/Shared Taxi: About 45 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 65 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Daran, here are two things worth checking out:
Daran Jameh Mosque is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Daran Traditional Bazaar is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside IFH, you can spend time at Hesa Executive Lounge or try Iranian Handicrafts Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near IFH
In Daran
If you make it into town, Aftab Traditional Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Shahrzad Fine Dining.
Inside IFH
If you’re staying in the terminal, Pars International Cafe is your main option. Kian Persian Restaurant works too if you want something quick.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your Daran layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Daran.
Luggage Storage at IFH
Luggage storage options at IFH can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Daran for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at IFH, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Daran itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Iran that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at IFH
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at IFH, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Daran genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.