Iran Road trips

3 curated road trips in Iran — Caspian Coast to Persian Gulf Transect, Iran Classic Route, Lut Desert and Kerman. Mapped stops, distance, duration, best season, and practical route notes.

These 3 routes range from 520 to 1400 km and from 3 to 14 days, across 1 country. Top picks: Caspian Coast to Persian Gulf Transect, Iran Classic Route, Lut Desert and Kerman.

• 
  NotableCaspian Coast to Persian Gulf TransectIran · 1,400 km · 7-10 daysThis north-to-south transect links Iran’s humid Caspian lowlands with the Zagros range and the warm Persian Gulf, showing the country’s dramatic ecological and cultural range in one drive. Expect rice fields, forested passes, historic cities, desert plateaus, and finally palm-lined coastal roads.
• 
  IconicIran Classic RouteIran · 1,400 km · 10-14 daysA classic cross-country drive from Tehran to Shiraz via the heart of Iran’s historic plateau, linking imperial capitals, desert towns, and some of the country’s finest Islamic architecture. Expect long but rewarding highway stretches, mountain scenery, and city stops rich in museums, bazaars, and courtyards.
• 
  NotableLut Desert and KermanIran · 520 km · 3-4 daysThis loop through southeastern Iran links Kerman’s historic caravan heritage with the stark, otherworldly landscapes of the Lut Desert. Drive from Kerman toward Shahdad and the Kaluts, then return through desert towns and fortified oases, with sand sculpted by wind, empty highways, and dramatic sunset stops.