population: 1.96 million

extension: 250 square kilometers

Museums

One of the must-visit museums in Isfahan is the Chehel Sotoun Palace Museum, located in a beautiful park with a long pool and gardens. It houses paintings and artifacts from the Safavid era. For similar museums in the area, you may want to check out the Vank Cathedral Museum or the Music Museum of Isfahan.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Isfahan (Iran, Islamic Republic Of) according to locals include:

1. Biryani: A traditional rice dish with spices, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and vegetables.

2. Zereshk Polo ba Morgh: A saffron-infused rice dish with barberries and chicken.

3. Fesenjan: A stew made with pomegranate paste, walnuts, and chicken or meat.

4. Ash Reshte: A hearty soup made with beans, herbs, noodles, and sometimes meat.

5. Kabab Koobideh: Grilled skewers of ground beef or lamb that are seasoned with spices and served with bread and vegetables.

6. Gheymeh: A stew made with yellow split peas, tomato paste, and chunks of beef or lamb.

7. Tahchin: A layered rice dish made with saffron, yogurt, and either chicken or lamb.

8. Baghali Polo ba Mahicheh: A fragrant rice dish made with dill and lima beans, served with slow-cooked lamb shanks.

These dishes are just a few examples of the many delicious and unique foods you can find in Isfahan.

Activities

One popular activity among locals in Isfahan is visiting the Naqsh-e Jahan Square, also known as Imam Square. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest historical city squares in the world. You can go there to relax or have a picnic, enjoy the beautiful architecture, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the square. Other popular activities include visiting the Si-o-seh Pol Bridge and Khaju Bridge at night when they are illuminated, exploring the Bazaar-e Bozorg (Grand Bazaar), and trying out local street food such as falafel and Fesenjan stew.