A layover in Tehran is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Imam Khomeini International Airport sits just 140 minutes from the city center by Tehran Metro, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of IKA:
- 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 140-minute journey each way by Tehran Metro, 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 Tehran from IKA
You have two main options for getting from Imam Khomeini International Airport into town:
- Tehran Metro: About 140 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 160 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.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Tehran 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 Tehran.
What’s Worth Seeing in Tehran
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Tehran, two standouts are:
- Azadi Tower — The views are worth the trip if you have time.
- Milad Tower — The views are worth the trip if you have time.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside IKA, you can spend time at Novotel IKA Day Use / Transit Hotel or try IKA CIP Lounge. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Moslem Restaurant and Alighapoo Traditional Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Tehran.
- At the airport: The Square Restaurant (Novotel IKA) and Amoo Hooshang Restaurant will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage is available at Located in the arrival hall of Terminal 1, near the international arrivals exit, managed by a dedicated service.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Tehran.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at IKA for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Tehran or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Taking a Break at IKA
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at IKA, 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 Tehran with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Tehran 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.