How to Travel from Isfahan to Mashhad: A Complete Guide

Travel from Isfahan to Mashhad, two of Iran’s most iconic cities, offers a journey rich in culture, history, and convenience. Isfahan, often dubbed “Half of the World” for its stunning architecture and heritage, sits in central Iran.

Travel from Isfahan to Mashhad, a major religious tourism hub in the northeast, draws millions annually to its holy shrine. Spanning 1,243 kilometers by road, these cities connect through various travel options: plane, train, bus, taxi, or personal car. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, this guide details every method to help you plan your trip with ease.

Traveling from Isfahan to Mashhad by Plane

For speed and comfort, flying tops the list. The flight from Isfahan to Mashhad covers 720 kilometers and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes under normal weather conditions. Start by booking a ticket—online platforms like OrientTrips simplify the process.

Choose between systematic tickets (fixed prices) or charter tickets (often cheaper). As of March 27, 2025, the lowest fares begin at around 2.5 million IRR. Want a deal? Opt for midweek flights or off-peak seasons for last-minute bargains.

At Isfahan International Airport (Martyr Beheshti), arrive early with your national ID and ticket. Check in at the domestic terminal, pass security, and board.

After landing at Mashhad International Airport (Martyr Hasheminejad), reach the city center via metro, taxi, or shuttle bus. First-timers, take note: Iran’s airports are efficient, but always carry identification.

Isfahan International Airport

Opened in 1982, Isfahan’s airport lies 5.18 kilometers from the city center across 1,315 hectares. It boasts two terminals—one for domestic flights, perfect for your Mashhad trip. Expect free Wi-Fi, multi-story parking, a lost-and-found, ticket counters, car rentals, and local souvenir shops. Need a snack? Grab tea or coffee from onsite vendors. Contact them at +98 31 3527 5050 or visit isfahan.airport.ir.

Mashhad International Airport: Your Destination

Travel from Isfahan to Mashhad, with Mashhad’s airport established in 1951, handling millions of passengers annually across three terminals. Terminal 1 serves domestic flights, offering amenities like parking, taxis, car rentals, and easy access to downtown via Mashhad Metro Line 1. Call +98 51 3340 0001 or check mashhad.airport.ir for updates.

Traveling from Isfahan to Mashhad by Train

Travel from Isfahan to Mashhad by train offers a relaxed, scenic ride. Covering 1,484 kilometers of rail, the journey lasts about 20 hours but rewards you with comfort. Stretch your legs, enjoy onboard meals, and watch Iran’s landscapes roll by. Train tickets range from 300,000 IRR for budget bus-style trains to 900,000–2.5 million IRR for premium options like Ghazal, Ghadir, or Noor. Book via OrientTrips or raja.ir for convenience.

Begin at Isfahan Railway Station, present your ID, and board. You’ll pass cities like Kashan, Tehran, Semnan, and Nishapur. Trains beat planes on price and rival them in comfort—ideal for budget travelers seeking a laid-back experience.

Isfahan Railway Station: Departure Hub

Launched in 1968 over 6,700 square meters, this station offers ATMs, restrooms, ticket booths, shops, a prayer room, and parking. Located 5 kilometers from Shiraz Road near Sepahan Shahr, it’s easily accessible. Reach them at +98 31 3654 2026.

Mashhad Railway Station: Arrival Point

Travel from Isfahan to Mashhad by train and enjoy the historical charm of Mashhad’s station, built in 1957 and a registered national heritage site. The station shines with unique design and offers stores, banks, Wi-Fi, charging stations, a mosque, and a restaurant. Taxis, buses, and metro links make city access simple. Contact: +98 51 3222 4681–9.

Traveling from Isfahan to Mashhad by Bus

On a tight budget? Buses are your answer. Covering 1,250 kilometers via the “Haram to Haram” route, the trip takes 12–13 hours. Tickets cost 500,000–900,000 IRR, depending on amenities like VIP reclining seats—recommended for this long haul. Buy online or at terminals. You’ll pass قم (Qom), Semnan, Sabzevar, and more, arriving refreshed if you pick the right bus.

Travel from Isfahan to Mashhad by train is an economical choice, favored by students and frequent travelers. However, it’s less ideal for kids or seniors due to its duration. Curious about the route? It’s a straight shot through Iran’s heartland.

Isfahan Bus Terminals: Kaveh and Sofeh

Travel from Isfahan to Mashhad by bus offers two main terminal options: Kaveh Terminal in the north (restrooms, shops, dining; +98 31 3435 8880) or Sofeh Terminal in the south (similar facilities; +98 31 3673 2751). Kaveh sits past Chamran Bridge, while Sofeh starts at Azadi Street. Both are functional and traveler-friendly.

Mashhad Bus Terminals: Imam Reza and Meraj

Arrive at Imam Reza Terminal, a bustling hub for 80,000 daily passengers, offering dining, ticket offices, parking, and a playground (+98 51 3859 9001). Alternatively, Meraj Terminal, opened in 2010, provides modern platforms and eateries (+98 51 3691 0205). Both connect to downtown via public transport.

Traveling from Isfahan to Mashhad by Taxi

Travel from Isfahan to Mashhad by taxi suits small groups or spontaneous trips. Use line taxis with fixed rates from Isfahan’s terminals or book via apps for added comfort. Prices vary, but expect a premium over buses. It’s a flexible, door-to-door option without the hassle of driving.

Traveling from Isfahan to Mashhad by Car

Driving grants freedom. Covering 1,243 kilometers, you control stops and pace. Three routes beckon:

Route 1: Nain to Anarak

The shortest at 12–13 hours, pass Kuhpayeh, Nain, Jandaq, Bayazeh, Sabzevar, and Nishapur. It’s direct and efficient.

Route 2: Persian Gulf Highway and Qom-Garmsar Freeway

Taking 13–14 hours, this path crosses Shahin Shahr, Natanz, Qom, Kashan, Damghan, and Sabzevar. Slightly longer, it’s well-paved and scenic.

Route 3: Shahid Dastgerdi Highway and Surmaq-Yazd Road

The longest at 15–16 hours, traverse Shahreza, Yazd, Tabas, Ferdows, and Torbat-e Heydarieh. Ideal for explorers wanting detours.

Solo drivers beware: fatigue can creep in. Share the wheel or rest often.

Travel from Isfahan to Mashhad: Why choose one mode over another? Planes save time, trains balance cost and comfort, buses stretch your budget, taxis offer ease, and cars provide flexibility. Your pick hinges on priorities—speed, savings, or scenery.