Traveling to Iran is not just about visiting ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, or stunning deserts—it's also about connecting with people. While many Iranians speak some English, especially in larger cities, knowing a few basic Persian phrases can dramatically enrich your travel experience. Whether you're navigating transportation, ordering food, or receiving a warm invitation for tea, a simple "salaam" (hello) can open hearts.

Why Learn Basic Persian?

Here's what happens when you try a bit of Farsi on the streets of Shiraz or the markets of Yazd: you'll likely get a big smile, maybe a discount, and sometimes even a new friend. Iranians deeply appreciate the effort—even if it's just "thank you" or "hello."

Plus, understanding basic Persian phrases can:

• Help you read signs and directions
• Make transportation smoother (check our full guide on getting around Iran)
• Avoid miscommunication in hotels, shops, and restaurants
• Improve your experience with local etiquette (read our Iranian customs & etiquette guide)

Essential Persian Phrases for Travelers

In Restaurants and Cafes 🍽

• Water, please – لطفاً آب (lotfan aab)
• I'm vegetarian – من گیاهخوارم (man giaahkhaaram)
• This is delicious – خیلی خوشمزه‌ست (kheyli khoshmazzeh-st)
• The bill, please – صورت‌حساب لطفاً (soorat-hesaab lotfan)

Looking to explore Persian cuisine deeper? Check out our guide to Iranian food

In a Taxi or Bus 🚕

• Take me to... – منو ببر به... (mano bebar be...)
• Stop here, please – لطفاً همین‌جا نگه دار (lotfan haminjaa negah dar)
• How much is the fare? – کرایه چنده؟ (keraaye chandeh?)
• Is this bus going to...? – این اتوبوس میره به...؟ (in otoboos mireh beh...?)

Also see our full Iran transportation guide

At the Hotel 🏨

• I have a reservation – من رزرو دارم (man rezerv daaram)
• I need help – کمک می‌خوام (komak mikhaam)
• Where is the bathroom? – دستشویی کجاست؟ (dashtooyi kojast?)

Planning your trip? See our curated Iran itineraries

Navigating Cities 🗺️

• Where is the metro? – مترو کجاست؟ (metro kojast?)
• Which direction is...? – کدوم طرف می‌ره...؟ (kodoom taraf mireh...?)
• I'm lost – من گم شدم (man gom shodam)

And don't forget to read our Iran safety guide

Greetings and Politeness 🧡

• Welcome – خوش آمدید (khosh amadid)
• Nice to meet you – از آشنایی خوشوقتم (az aashnaayi khoshvaghtam)
• With your permission – با اجازه (ba ejaazeh)
• Thank you very much – خیلی ممنون (kheyli mamnoon)

Learn more about social norms and hospitality

Numbers in Persian

Knowing numbers can be useful for prices, time, and bargaining.

Bonus Phrases for the Curious Traveler

• What's your name? – اسمت چیه؟ (esmet chieh?)
• My name is... – اسم من ... است (esm-e man ... ast)
• I love Iran – من عاشق ایرانم (man aashegh-e Iranam)
• Where are you from? – اهل کجایی؟ (ahl-e kojaai?)

Tips for Learning Persian On the Go

• Download a Phrasebook App – Try Simply Learn Persian or Google Translate
• Practice With Locals – Most people are happy to teach you a few words
• Use Flashcards – Great for numbers, food items, and common verbs
• Listen to Persian Songs – Music is a fun way to get the rhythm of the language

Final Thoughts

You don't need to become fluent in Persian—but even a few words will transform your trip to Iran. It shows respect, invites connection, and lets you engage with locals on a deeper level. Whether you're asking for directions in Isfahan, ordering kebab in Rasht, or saying thank you in the bazaars of Tabriz, every word counts.

And remember—Iranians will likely respond with warmth, patience, and maybe a cup of tea!