Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Mashhad. Mashhad International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 75 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of MHD:
- 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 75-minute journey each way by 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.
The Best Way Into Mashhad from MHD
You have two main options for getting from Mashhad International Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 75 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 95 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.
Luggage Storage at MHD
Dedicated luggage storage at MHD may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Mashhad’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Mashhad:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What’s Worth Seeing in Mashhad
If you head into Mashhad, here are two things worth checking out:
Imam Reza Shrine Complex (Haram-e Razavi) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
Goharshad Mosque is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at MHD, check out CIP Lounge (Mashhad Airport) or Iranian Souvenir Shops to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Mashhad Layover
- In the city: Baba Ghoori Restaurant and Padma Restaurant (Padideh Shandiz Mashhad) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Mashhad.
- At the airport: Airport Traditional Cafe & Restaurant and Fast Food Corner (MHD) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at MHD, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Mashhad 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.
Need a Nap? Options at MHD
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at MHD, 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
A layover in Mashhad with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Mashhad may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.