Begin our journey to Alamut to visit the Assassins’ Castle, a mountain fortress situated at an altitude of 2,163 meters in the central Alborz. In 1090 AD, it came into the possession of Hassan-i Sabbah, a champion of the Nizari Ismaili cause. Until 1256, Alamut served as the headquarters of the Nizari Ismaili state, which included a series of strategic strongholds scattered throughout Persia and Syria. After visiting Alamut, drive to Qazvin. Overnight stay in a hotel in Qazvin.

On this day, we will head to Ardabil. On the way, we will stop at Soltaniyeh to visit the Mausoleum of Oljaytu (Soltaniyeh Dome), which was constructed between 1302 and 1312 as the tomb of the eighth Ilkhanid ruler. Its stunning dome is covered with turquoise-blue faience tiles. The Mausoleum of Oljaytu is recognized as an architectural masterpiece of its period and an outstanding achievement in the development of Persian architecture, particularly for its innovative double-shelled dome and interior decoration. It has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005. We then continue driving to Ardabil. Explore the Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah and Shrine Ensemble in Ardabil, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the rich heritage of Sufi traditions from the Safavid era. This remarkable site features an array of impressive buildings, including mosques, a library, schools, and the centerpiece mausoleum of Sheikh Safi. The mausoleum's dome, adorned with intricate tiles and calligraphy, exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship of the period. Beyond its spiritual significance, the ensemble stands as a vibrant display of Iranian art, highlighting exceptional tilework, calligraphy, and architecture. Overnight in a hotel in Ardabil.

Continue our adventurous journey to Meshginshahr to visit the ancient city of Yeri. This archaeological site features an Iron Age fortress, three prehistoric temples, and numerous stones carved with bizarre, mouthless faces. Then, proceed to Kalibar to explore the lair of the 9th-century Iranian hero Babak Khorramdin. This visit is a must, as the views of the castle and the surrounding mountains are simply breathtaking. Overnight in a hotel in Kalibar.

After bidding farewell to the charming town of Kalibar, we journey through the lush Arasbaran jungles on our way to Tabriz. Our first stop in this historic city will be the Tabriz Grand Bazaar, the world’s largest covered bazaar and the most extensive roofed brick complex, proudly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Next, we will marvel at the Blue Mosque, famously known as the 'Turquoise of Islam' for its stunning turquoise-colored bricks. Overnight in a hotel in Tabriz.

Departing from Tabriz, we journey to Kandovan, a mesmerizing village that has thrived for 7,000 years on the rugged slopes of the Sahand mountains. This ancient settlement is renowned for its manmade cliff dwellings, which are still home to villagers today. Next, we explore the enigmatic temple of Takht-e Soleyman, a historic sanctuary and the most important site of Zoroastrianism, the state religion of the Sasanian Empire. Overnight in a guesthouse in Takht-e Soleyman.

Today, we embark on a journey to Marivan in Iran's Kurdistan, traversing the stunning Zagros Mountains. En route, we pause to marvel at the Karaftu cave, a breathtaking spectacle carved by nature and shaped by human hands over millennia. Nestled in the side of a towering cliff, the Caves of Karaftu feature a room known as the House of Heracles, distinguished by an ancient Greek inscription at its entrance. This intricate cave complex, formed within a massive limestone outcrop, is believed to have once served as a base for Seleucid fighters. Upon reaching Marivan, we will visit the serene Zarivar Lake, perfectly situated in front of our hotel, offering a picturesque end to our day. Overnight in a hotel in Marivan.

Today's adventure takes us through the stunning Kurdistan region and the majestic Zagros Mountains as we drive to the enchanting village of Uraman Takht. The village's terraced farms and unique stone architecture, where the rooftops of one row of houses serve as the courtyards for those above, create a breathtakingly beautiful landscape. Uraman Takht is not only visually captivating but also rich in cultural heritage, hosting the ancient and mesmerizing Peer Shahriar ceremony annually. Our journey continues to the fascinating Quri Qaleh Stream Cave, home to three main chambers adorned with calcite crystals, stalactites, and waterfalls. Finally, we make our way to the historic city of Kermanshah, ready for more exploration. Overnight in a hotel in Kermanshah.

Before departing Kermanshah, we'll explore the remarkable Bisotun archaeological site, home to one of the most significant artifacts of the Persian Empire: the Behistun Inscription. This impressive carving on high rock cliffs chronicles the life and triumphs of Darius the Great in three ancient languages—Elamite, Babylonian, and Old Persian. Recognized as a World Heritage Site, Bisotun is celebrated for its monumental art and historical writings. In addition to the inscription, the site boasts remains from the Median, Achaemenid, and post-Achaemenid periods, including a statue of King Bahram, depicted as Heracles and several other rock-carved reliefs. Next, we'll visit Taq-e Bostan, featuring a series of grand rock reliefs from the Sassanid Empire, meticulously carved in the 4th century CE. Leaving Kermanshah behind, we head towards Hamedan, making a notable stop at Kangavar to explore the ancient Anahita Temple. This journey through time promises to enrich our understanding of Persia's illustrious past. Overnight in a hotel in Hamedan.

On the final day of our journey, we kick off with a visit to Ganjnameh, home to two ancient inscription panels featuring cuneiform characters in three languages: Old Persian, Elamite, and Babylonian. These 20-line inscriptions, meticulously carved into granite rock, offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region. Next, we explore the Mausoleum of Avicenna, a tribute to the renowned Persian polymath. This complex houses a library, a small museum, and a spindle-shaped tower inspired by the Ziyarid-era Kavus Tower. Our adventure continues with a trip to Alisadr Cave, a mesmerizing underground wonder. This cave boasts numerous water halls, stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and unique karst formations, making it perfect for an enchanting boating experience through its 2,400 meters of water-filled passages. As our trip concludes, we make our way to the IKA airport, ready to depart with memories of an unforgettable adventure.