Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan
Naqsh-e Jahan Square Isfahan is one of the main attractions in Isfahan. The register UNESCO Historical – Cultural Place. Here, you can find all the things to know about Naqsh-e Jahan Square Isfahan, like address, photos, tourist information, nearby main attractions, and Iran tours that include this attraction.
Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan + address & photo
- Theme: Historical and Cultural
- Address: Isfahan, Naqsh_e Jahan square
- UNESCO Site Id: 115
- Opening Hours: open 24 hours
- Recommended Time to Spend: 3 hr
Tourist information of Naqsh-e Jahan Square
Naqsh-e Jahan Square is located in the heart of Isfahan, Iran. It is recognized as a significant historical site and is included as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a magnificent showcase of Iranian and Islamic design, and it’s also one of the largest city squares in the world. The square is open to the public 24 hours a day.
This square is the first place people see when they come to Isfahan, and it is always full of tourists. This monument complex includes Ali Qapu Palace, Shah Mosque (Imam Mosque), Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and Qeysarieh Gate. Buildings with different uses and styles surround the square. These buildings, along with the main bazaar of Isfahan, make up a huge complex that you can explore. This square is located in the northern part of the beautiful city of Isfahan.
One of the many things that set Naqsh-e Jahan apart from other Iranian architecture is the presence of a central green space. The square now links the city’s storied past and its modern, thriving present. Visitors can make a wish at the central fountain or ride a horse-drawn carriage around the area. Many of Iran’s historic landmarks are most beautiful right before sunset. It’s the ideal relaxing location, with the quiet, the breeze, and the lovely grass. Naqsh-e Jahan is a short walk from Jame Mosque through the Grand Bazaar. Surrounded by stores, restaurants, and arcades, the complex is easy to notice. The square is surrounded by soaring minarets and huge domes that seem to penetrate the clouds.
Naqsh-e Jahan Square is a must-visit destination for tourists in Isfahan, Iran.
Hasht Behesht Palace, the Magical Portico of Qaysari, is the must-see site near Naqsh-e Jahan Square, making it easy to complete the Isfahan city tour. Enter the square from Sepah Street to make the finest first impression. On your walk in, you’ll see Chehel Sotoon Palace and be greeted by a breathtaking panorama of the entire plaza.
Naqsh-e Jahan Square is significant for various aspects of life, including business, politics, society, tourism, and entertainment. Below, we’ll discuss some exciting activities to enjoy in this area.
- Naqsh-e Jahan Square is the center for traditional events and gatherings. For centuries, this activity has been enjoyed by nobility and royalty, serving as a popular pastime for games such as polo. Stone polo goals can still be found in the square.
- The square is also the venue for the Friday market. Discover a wide array of treasures at this vibrant weekly market, ensuring a delightful shopping experience.
- Several bars and restaurants await within this square, offering a delightful array of traditional foods, sweets, desserts, and Isfahan’s renowned ice creams. Naqsh-e Jahan Square is home to some of the most delicious foods in the city. There is a wide variety of tasty food, such as Pashmak, Doogh, Ferni, Biryani, Yogurt Stew, Sohan, Gush Fil, Baghlava, Isfahan Gaz, and many others.
- Indulge in a truly exceptional experience in this area by riding on one of the horse-drawn carriages that gracefully traverse its surroundings, creating unforgettable moments. Feel free to capture stunning images of every corner of this square, where you’ll find some of the most breathtaking photo opportunities.
Things to do in Naqsh-e Jahan Square Isfahan
Naqsh-e Jahan Square is the most important place for business, politics, society, tourism, and fun. We’ll talk about some of the fun things to do in this area below:
1- The Imam Mosque
One of the first things people notice in Naqsh-e Jahan Square is the Imam Mosque, also called the Shah Mosque. The Imam Mosque is on the southern side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square. It is also called the Royal Mosque or the Jameh Abbasi Mosque. The grand Abbasi Mosque, now called the Imam Mosque, is one of the most well-known mosques and historical buildings in Isfahan and one of Iran’s most important tourist spots.
The Imam Mosque was built in 1020 AH by Shah Abbas Safavi. This mosque has many beautiful things, but the arches, carvings, tiles, decorations, and the pool are the most important. The style, color, and shine of the writing in the Jameh Abbasi Mosque are unmatched. These writings are mostly decorated with seven-color tilework and small tiles. Well-known Safavid artist calligraphers also wrote the markings.
2- The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque
The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is on the eastern side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, near the Ali Qapu Palace. The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque was built during the reign of Shah Abbas I 400 years ago. A long time ago, only Shah Abbas and his family were allowed to use it. There is no minaret in this building. This mosque differs from any other building because of its beautiful tilework and decorations.
The dome on top of the mosque is the most beautiful and perfect circle in the world. The peacock pattern in the middle of the dome inside is seen as a masterpiece of this building. The peacock’s wings are made of light, and the arch above the mosque’s front door finishes the picture. 1931, this mosque was named an essential part of Iran’s national heritage.
3- Ali Qapu Palace
The royal and government palace of Ali Qapu is another exciting place to visit in Isfahan’s Naqsh-e Jahan Square. The Ali Qapu Palace is on the western side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, next to the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. This old building is over 38 meters tall and has six floors.
Ali Qapu Palace is a beautiful and ancient wood building. It was used for government business during the rule of Shah Abbas I. The building was also used for several state events and parties for foreign guests. Safavid kings could stay there and watch polo games in Naqsh-e Jahan Square.
Ali Qapu Palace used to be where government and state business took place, and the public was not allowed to enter. There are narrow stairs that lead to the upper floors of Ali Qapu Palace, which can make it hard to climb and move around in some places. On the top floor of Ali Qapu Palace, there are more than 20 meter-tall wooden columns and a beautiful view of Naqsh-e Jahan Square. On top of the Ali Qapu building is a giant copper basin once used as a fountain or other water feature.
The Music Hall is a beautiful room in the Ali Qapu Palace. It is on the top floor, just below the upper terrace. The holes in the walls and the arched roof of these rooms look like cups and instruments. These geometrically stuccoed shapes can make sound bounce back. Beautiful works of art, like paintings, figurines, mirror work, and tile work, can be seen on the different floors of Ali Qapu Palace. Even though some of these paintings and mirrors are no longer there, the palace is still the most beautiful building in the world.
4- Qeysarie Bazaar
The Qeysarieh Bazaar is one of Iran’s oldest and most authentic bazaars. It is on the northern side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square and is a beautiful and grand market that is 400 years old. The whole market is decorated with unique and real Safavid-era patterns. From the beginning to the end of the market, original and creative artists’ work can be seen everywhere. During the Safavid era, the Qeysarieh Bazaar was one of the world’s most beautiful and expensive bazaars.
The best place to buy handmade goods is this old and historic market. There is something new to discover every time you walk into this market. The Qeysarieh Bazaar is several kilometers long. Each part of this covered and tall market sells different goods. Along with selling other things, this market also has places where things are made.
If you want to buy authentic Isfahan handicrafts and quality is essential, go to the Qeysarieh Bazaar. This market only offers the most beautiful and unique handmade goods. It has many handmade arts and crafts for sale, including metalwork, Khatamkari (marquetry), beautiful inlays, and many more.
In addition, there is a mint on the eastern side of Isfahan’s grand Qeysarieh Bazaar. In the past, coins were made there. These days, it’s a place where people buy and sell things. This business sells many things, including beautiful fabrics, like silk, satin, velvet, and other fabrics, as well as different types of pen works. In this place, you can also buy copper bracelets, which are thought to bring mental peace.
5- Qeysarieh Museum & Cafe Gallery
The Café Qeisariye Gallery is in the northern part of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, at the western end of the entrance to the Qeisarie Bazaar. The unique vibe of this café makes it one of the most popular places to visit in Naqsh-e Jahan Square. It’s a great place to relax and unwind. It is very popular with both tourists and people who live in Isfahan. When you walk into this café, you’ll see many people from different countries, both Iranian and foreign.
This café on a rooftop has a beautiful view of Ali Qapu Palace and Naqsh-e Jahan Square. Another great thing about this café is its delicious and refreshing drinks, which are very popular in Isfahan because of the unique ways they are made and their tastes.
Very skilled and talented artists made this café gallery, so while you relax and enjoy your favorite drink, you can also enjoy its historical and artistic pieces. The most exciting thing about this café is the view of Naqsh-e Jahan Square. However, this café gallery also has a handmade goods and calligraphy collection.
This part of the gallery has beautiful Isfahan enamelware, and Khatam embroidery works that you should see. The gallery has seven rooms where you can see many works of art by skilled Isfahan artists. You can take beautiful and unique pictures here. Photography fans will love taking photos in this historic, attractive, and one-of-a-kind location, and if you’re good, you can get images that will last a lifetime. Remember that this place is even more beautiful at night, making it a great time to take stunning photos.
6- The Azadegan Tea House
This Cafe is in Imam Square, near the Qeisariye Gate. Turn left on your way from the entrance to the Qeysarie Bazaar to the Azadegan Traditional Café in Isfahan. The Azadegan Traditional Café Restaurant brings Iran’s culture and history to life. With its authentic building and traditional dishes, it’s like reading a book about the past.
The building and decor of Azadegan Restaurant are not the only things that make it beautiful. The food at this café place is also delicious. Azadegan’s menu has a vast range of traditional and one-of-a-kind Isfahani meals with flavors from old recipes. The traditional music played in this restaurant gives you a unique look into Isfahan’s culture. Eating here makes you want to learn more about its history and culture. You might think you’re in an old shop or museum when you walk into the Azadegan Traditional Café Restaurant in Isfahan.
But after some time and getting used to the place and the things there, you realize that these are all part of the traditional decor of the Haj Mirza (Azadegan) restaurant. The owner has spent years collecting these things with great care and has used them to make the space unique. If you are considering traveling to Isfahan, you should ensure that you include Azadegan Café in your plans.
There are also many places near Naqsh-e Jahan Square. The shops around the square sell a wide range of treats, such as ice cream, cakes, and sweets like cotton candy. They also sell ash reshteh, fereni, baklava, and the famous Esfahan doogh and gosh-e-fil. Antiques and old things decorate these traditional bars and restaurants.
You can also enjoy a unique experience in this area by riding one of the horse-drawn carriages around it, making for beautiful moments. You can take pictures of virtually any part of this square.
Before you go to Naqsh-e Jahan Square, keep these tips in mind. Because it is so big, it could take half a day or even longer to see everything. So, we suggest that you wear comfy shoes. When you go to this place in the summer, remember to wear light-colored clothes, use sunscreen, and bring water with you.
Nearby Attraction and Restaurants to Naqsh-e Jahan Square Isfahan
Naqsh-e Jahan Isfahan Square includes Aali Qapu Palace, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Shah Mosque and Qeysarie Bazaar. Other must-see attractions near Naqsh-e Jahan are Hasht Behesht Palace, Chehel Sotoon Palace, Mollabashi Historical House, and Isfahan Music Museum.
Some of the best Isfahan restaurants around this area are Naghshe Jahan Restaurant, Hamdamossaltaneh Cafe Restaurant, Atigh Traditional Restaurant, Sini Mesi Royal Restaurant, Nayeb Restaurant, Azadegan Tea House, Sogoli Cafe Restaurant, Bastani Restaurant, Kooftaloo Food Collection, Keryas Cafe & Restaurant, and Jarchibashi Restaurant.
Nearby Hotels to Naqsh-e Jahan Square Isfahan
You can stay near the Naqsh-e Jahan Square at the Jaam Firouzeh Hotel, Partikan Hotel, Honar Boutique Hotel, Manzel Yazdan Boutique Hotel, Keryas Hotel, and Setareh Hotel.
You can add this attraction to your itinerary. Please get in touch with tour operators.
- info@letsseepersia.com
- Nearby Location
Naghsh_e Jahan Square to Hasht Behesht palace. 19 min. walk.
Naghsh_e Jahan Square to Chehel sotoon Palace. 12 min. walk.
Naghsh_e Jahan Square to Si_o_Seh Pol Bridge. 19 min. by car.
Naghsh_e Jahan Square to Vank Cathedral. 33 min. by Car.
List of Iran tours includes Naqsh-e Jahan Square
9 Days Iran Classic Tour
Iran Monthly Group Tours
Iran Tour for Chinese Citizens
Reviews of Naqsh-e Jahan Square Isfahan
A tourist who recently visited this square expressed, “I’ve been wanting to see Naqsh-e Jahan Square for a while now.” And honestly, there’s no room for disappointment when you embark on this adventure. I explored it throughout the day, from morning to evening, and it stood out as the most breathtaking destination I encountered in Iran in 2023.”
Another traveler remarked, “It’s one of Iran’s finest and most captivating destinations.” Take a day to explore this square and admire all the beautiful sights. Remember to return to this location in the evening. This location is stunning for capturing breathtaking photos after dark.”
The other tourist mentions that the roof of the bazaar offers a fantastic view of the square. You can easily reach this spot from the Geysariye cafe. A ticket is required, but you’ll be delighted to know that you can choose a complimentary item from the menu. Options include coffee, tea, ice cream, and more.”
One of the travelers said,” It’s 560 m long and 160 m wide. It has the beautiful mosques of Imam and Sheikh Lotfollah, the beautiful Aliqapu Palace, the Qeisarieh Gate, the traditional bazaar where you can find almost any kind of Persian handicraft, and the two sets of oldest known polo stone goalposts. There are also many cafes and bars there. With all this beauty and shopping, you’ll need at least half a day to see everything. You can get a great view of the square from the market’s roof. When the lights reflect the square in the pool at night, you can also get some great pictures. You could also try Isfahani Doogh and Goosh-e Fil or ride a horse-drawn carriage around the square.”
The other tourist says,” It’s one of Iran’s best and most exciting spots. You need a day to walk around this square and look at all the pretty things. Don’t forget to come back here at night; the place is one of the best for taking pictures at night.”
Please take note that these comments were derived from the visitors’ feedback.
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