Iran Travel Guide

Iran — Shopping

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Shopping

While the shops offer a wide selection of quality goods, local items can be bought in the many bazaars. Purchases include hand-carved, inlaid woodwork, carpets, rugs, silks, leather goods, mats, tablecloths, gold, silver, glass and ceramics. Bargaining is customary. There are restrictions on which items may be taken out of the country (see Duty-Free for details).

Shopping hours: Generally 0900-1300 and 1500-2000.

Currency

Iranian Rial (IRR; symbol Rs) = 100 dinars. Notes are in denominations of Rs50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000, 500, 200 and 100. Coins are in denominations of Rs500, 250, 100 and 50.

Currency Exchange

It is advisable to bring hard currency for exchange purposes.

Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs

MasterCard is accepted in some places, but credit cards should not be relied on as the sole means of payment. Be aware that if the card was issued in the USA, it may not be usable due to the US trade embargo. There are no ATMs.

Travelers Checks

It is not possible to exchange traveler's checks.

Currency Restrictions

The import and export of local currency is limited to Rs500,000. Any amount larger requires authorization from the Central Bank. The import of foreign currency is unlimited, provided declared on arrival. The export of foreign currency is limited to the amount declared on arrival.