Meidan Square Isfahan - a group of people walking in front of a building
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Meidan Square Isfahan

4.4
·4k reviews·Tbilisi, Georgia

A historic underground marketplace in Isfahan, offering Georgian crafts, wines, and a unique tunnel experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoons

Escape the midday sun

CrowdMedium
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Meidan Square Isfahan - a group of people walking in front of a building

Meidan Square Isfahan

Best Time

Afternoons

Escape the midday sun

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic underground marketplace in Isfahan, offering Georgian crafts, wines, and a unique tunnel experience.

4.4
(4k reviews)

"A genuine gem, full of beads and trinkets and a living museum as well a place to purchase all of the things that sum up Georgian heritage."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Tunnels

Dive into the brick tunnel system to find unique Georgian products and souvenirs. It's a fascinating underground market experience.

🍷 Taste Local Flavors

Don't miss trying churchkhela and Georgian wines. Many stalls offer samples before you buy.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Georgian Crafts & Souvenirs

Georgian Crafts & Souvenirs

Discover a treasure trove of handmade items, from intricate jewelry to traditional textiles. A perfect place to find unique gifts.

Local Wines & Delicacies

Local Wines & Delicacies

Sample and purchase authentic Georgian wines, delicious jams, and local sweets like churchkhela. A taste of true Georgian flavor.

Historic Tunnel Atmosphere

Historic Tunnel Atmosphere

Wander through the atmospheric brick tunnels, feeling like you've stepped back in time. The architecture itself is a highlight.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigate the Tunnels

This unique marketplace is set within a series of brick tunnels. Be prepared for a maze-like experience as you explore the various stalls and shops. It's a great way to escape the heat and discover hidden treasures.

Souvenir Shopping Savvy

While the atmosphere is captivating, prices can be high due to its tourist appeal. Look for authentic Georgian products like wines, jams, and crafts. Haggling might be possible, but focus on the unique experience.

Best Times

When
Afternoons
Why
Escape the midday sun
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Royal square in Isfahan drawn in 18th century!

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Tunnels

Dive into the brick tunnel system to find unique Georgian products and souvenirs. It's a fascinating underground market experience. Reddit

🍷 Taste Local Flavors

Don't miss trying churchkhela and Georgian wines. Many stalls offer samples before you buy. Reddit

reddit.com

We had some guests last year and we went to the Naqshe Jahan Square in Isfahan. People hanging around and enjoy their picnic with their family infront of the Aliqapu palace.🥰

reddit.com

One of the best travel pictures I've ever taken. Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan, Iran.

💰 Be Price Aware

Prices can be high as it's a tourist spot. Consider it an experience, but be mindful of your budget. Reddit

📸 Capture the History

The unique architecture and vibrant stalls make for great photo opportunities. Reddit

reddit.com

Here's a hyperlapse I made of my city Esfahan in Iran! It took over 100 hours to make.

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Tunnels

Dive into the brick tunnel system to find unique Georgian products and souvenirs. It's a fascinating underground market experience. Reddit

🍷 Taste Local Flavors

Don't miss trying churchkhela and Georgian wines. Many stalls offer samples before you buy. Reddit

💰 Be Price Aware

Prices can be high as it's a tourist spot. Consider it an experience, but be mindful of your budget. Reddit

📸 Capture the History

The unique architecture and vibrant stalls make for great photo opportunities. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Meidan Square is a captivating historical site offering a unique blend of culture and commerce. Visitors praise its stunning architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and the intriguing tunnel market filled with Georgian crafts and delicacies. While some find prices high, the overall experience is considered a genuine gem and a must-visit for its historical significance and unique shopping opportunities.

""Although set up for tourist, it shows a lot of history and typical Georgian products" ✨

Nice place to visit during a walk though the city. It's a good place to buy some souvenirs/antique or taste some local products (churchkhela, grapce ice-cream etc.)

— Genuine Gems Overview —
⭐ Rating: 5/5
💰 Price Paid: Free
💎 A Genuine Gem? Yes"

Genuine Gems (By Paul & Merel)

"Gallery-museum-store. The spot is great. You need to go under the road to go inside.

Here you can dive inside of Georgian history, buy local products, souvenirs or unique items.
Price is high but it’s okey for this touristic area."

savelyev

"Beautifully designed and a great spot to browse local crafts, wines, and souvenirs. It’s really a must visit place with a huge selection of souvenirs and it’s also the nicest and easiest way to cross the busy street Definitely worth a visit for the atmosphere alone but it’s extremely overpriced."

İsidora

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Unique tunnel market
Georgian products

What People Dislike

Overpriced souvenirs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Meidan Square, also known as Naqsh-e Jahan Square, is a central landmark in Isfahan. You can easily reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services. Many hotels are within walking distance or a short drive from the square. Reddit

While direct public transport to the square itself might be limited, you can take buses to nearby main roads and then walk or take a short taxi ride. It's best to check local transport apps for the most current routes. Reddit

The square is vast and best explored on foot. The Meidan Square tunnels are also best navigated by walking. Comfortable shoes are a must! Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Meidan Square itself is generally free. However, individual attractions within or around the square, like mosques or palaces, may have separate admission fees. The tunnel market is free to enter. Reddit

Meidan Square is accessible at all hours, but the shops and attractions within and around it have varying opening times, typically from morning until evening. The tunnel market is usually open during daylight hours and into the early evening. Reddit

No advance booking is required for Meidan Square itself. For specific historical sites within the square, it's advisable to check their individual websites or inquire locally. Reddit

Visitors should dress modestly out of respect for local customs, especially when visiting religious sites. Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of people's privacy. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

You can find a wide array of Georgian crafts, including handmade jewelry, textiles, miniature paintings, pottery, and traditional wood carvings. Wines, jams, and spices are also popular. Reddit

While it's a tourist-oriented area, some vendors may be open to negotiation, especially if you're buying multiple items. It's always worth a polite attempt. Reddit

There are numerous cafes and restaurants surrounding Meidan Square offering both local Iranian cuisine and international options. The tunnel market also has small eateries. Reddit

Don't miss trying 'churchkhela' (a traditional Georgian candy made from nuts and grape juice) and sampling local Georgian wines. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire square is incredibly photogenic! Key spots include the Ali Qapu Palace, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Imam Mosque, and the bustling market tunnels. The view from the Abbasi Great Mosque is also stunning. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted in the courtyards and main prayer halls of the mosques, but always be respectful and avoid photographing people without their consent. Some areas might have restrictions. Reddit

Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light, casting a warm glow on the architecture. Evenings are also magical with the square lit up. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Meidan Square offers a visually stimulating experience for families. The vast open space is perfect for kids to run around (under supervision, of course!), and the horse-drawn carriage rides around the square are a definite hit. The tunnel market, with its colorful crafts and unique items, can also be an engaging adventure for children, making them feel like they're exploring a hidden world. Reddit

While the historical sites might require a bit more patience from younger visitors, focusing on the visual aspects and the lively atmosphere can keep them interested. Pack snacks and water, as exploring the square and its surroundings can take a good part of the day. The unique products in the tunnel market can also serve as fun, memorable souvenirs for kids. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Meidan Square is a major tourist attraction and some items can be pricey, it's still possible to enjoy it on a budget. The square itself is free to enter and explore, offering incredible sights and photo opportunities. Focus on appreciating the architecture and atmosphere rather than making extensive purchases. Reddit

In the tunnel market, look for smaller, more affordable souvenirs like spices or small crafts. While prices can be high, polite negotiation might yield a better deal. For dining, opt for local eateries on the streets surrounding the square rather than the most prominent restaurants directly on the square for more budget-friendly options. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Meidan Square

Meidan Square, officially Naqsh-e Jahan Square, is one of the largest city squares in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built by the Safavid dynasty in the early 17th century and served as the heart of Isfahan's political, economic, and social life. The square is surrounded by magnificent architectural masterpieces, including the Imam Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Ali Qapu Palace, and the Qeysarieh Bazaar. It was a vibrant hub for trade, religious ceremonies, and royal events, reflecting the grandeur of the Safavid empire. Reddit

Today, the square continues to be a focal point for locals and tourists alike. It's a place where you can witness traditional games, enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, and soak in the historical ambiance. The surrounding bazaars, including the unique tunnel system of Meidan Square, offer a glimpse into traditional crafts and commerce that have endured for centuries. The square's design and scale are a testament to the architectural and urban planning prowess of its era. Reddit

Exploring the Meidan Square Tunnel Market

The Meidan Square tunnel system is a unique marketplace located beneath the main square. This subterranean network is filled with stalls selling a variety of Georgian products, including wines, jams, spices, and traditional crafts. It offers a cool respite from the heat and a more intimate shopping experience compared to the open-air bazaars. Reddit

Visitors often describe the tunnel market as a 'gallery-museum-store' where you can dive into Georgian history and culture. While prices can be on the higher side due to its tourist appeal, the quality and uniqueness of the items make it a worthwhile stop for souvenirs. It's also a convenient and interesting way to cross the busy street that borders the main square. Reddit

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