Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Shiraz is the capital city of Fars Province, known for its rich cultural history and beautiful gardens. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 1.5 million |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average speed is around 20 Mbps |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD ≈ 42,000 IRR. Local currency is Iranian Rial. ATMs are available. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is generally not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity is 220V, 50Hz, with Type C and F plugs. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Popular providers include MCI and Irancell; prepaid SIM cards are easily available. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Limited options; cash is preferred. Cards may not work internationally. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Airbnb is available, along with local guesthouses and hotels. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | No, cash is predominantly used; credit cards are rarely accepted. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local hostels offer short-term rental options. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostels like 'Sadi Hostel' offer affordable lodging starting at $5 per night. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The Zand Street area is popular for its proximity to attractions and amenities. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The Haft Tan area is recommended for its cafes and coworking spaces. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Zavichi Coworking Space offers a vibrant environment for remote work. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Mahtab provides a cozy atmosphere suitable for working. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Regular meetups are organized by local communities, check Facebook groups. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | The Shiraz Expats group holds gatherings, connect through social media. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Snap is the most popular ride-hailing app in Shiraz. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Limited options; public transportation is more common. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Shiraz is landlocked; the nearest beach is approximately 2 hours away in Bushehr. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Iran Air offers regional flights to nearby cities. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Iran Air and Mahan Air serve international destinations. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Direct access to major highways connecting Shiraz to other cities. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Shiraz Railway Station connects to Tehran and other major cities. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Public transport is cheap; no monthly passes available, pay-as-you-go. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses connect Shiraz to nearby cities like Isfahan and Yazd. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Shiraz University Hospital offers comprehensive medical services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Many local gyms offer yoga classes; 'Khalij Fars Gym' is recommended. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness centers like 'Fitness First' are available. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundry services are available at local laundromats and hotels. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | SnappFood is the leading food delivery service in Shiraz. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Fesenjan' and 'Kabab' for an authentic local experience. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Places like 'Cafe Narenj' offer vegetarian-friendly menus. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Stoorm is popular for its Persian sweets, especially baklava. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local bazaars like 'Vakil Bazaar' have affordable local foods and snacks. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Local online shopping is available through 'Digikala.' |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Local grocery stores often deliver; services vary by area. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Shiraz has limited nightlife; local tea houses are popular. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Alcohol is banned in Iran; local drinks like Doogh (yogurt drink) are popular. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Due to local laws, wine consumption is restricted, but it can be found in private settings. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street vendors offer delicious kebabs and sweets, particularly near markets. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Pasta and pizza are available at places like 'Ristorante Italiano.' |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Persepolis and the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque are top attractions. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Iran National Museum of Shiraz showcases Persian art. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | The Tomb of Hafez and Saadi are significant historical figures. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Visit the Shah Cheragh shrine for its stunning architecture. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Shiraz hosts the Shiraz Arts Festival each spring. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The historical district near Zand Street is known for its beautiful architecture. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Local theaters often host cultural performances, check local listings. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Vakil Bazaar is famous for local crafts and spices. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Traditional Persian music is prevalent in local cafes and parks. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Shiraz features murals and local art in various neighborhoods. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Various cooking classes are available to learn Persian cuisine. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Local galleries like 'Art House' showcase contemporary Iranian art. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Traditional houses like Qavam House are notable architectural examples. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Shiraz is known for its historical poets and rich cultural heritage. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Visit the beautiful Eram Garden for nature and tranquility. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Dasht-e Arjan Wildlife Sanctuary for nature lovers. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | The paths around Eram Garden and the river offer good walking routes. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The viewpoint at the top of Mt. Baghaei provides panoramic views of the city. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The wetlands near Shahr-e Babak are excellent for birdwatching. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Public areas near the riverside allow for bonfires, but check local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local postal services like Post Iran provide delivery options. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops exist for phone and laptop repairs in city markets. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Public parks often have table tennis tables. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language schools like 'Iran Language Institute' offer Persian language courses. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Shiraz University Library is a quiet place for studying. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Cultural centers frequently hold events; check local listings. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited options; local game shops might offer play areas. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Gambling is illegal in Iran; no casinos are available. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €1,500 per m² in central locations (e.g., 40 m² = €60,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €1,200 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = €48,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €2,000 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = €120,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €1,500 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = €90,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. €1,800 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = €144,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. €1,400 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = €112,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 25% |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 25% |
| 🏦 Tax System | Taxation is based on worldwide income for residents. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 25% |
| 🧾 VAT | 9% |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, strict rules apply. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Based on municipal regulations. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | No standardized rate; typically negotiated. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Low personal tax burden on expat income. |