Travel to Tehran

Iran Air offers direct flights to Tehran from London Heathrow with a journey time of around seven hours. You can also fly indirectly from a number of UK airports such as Manchester with airlines including Qatar Airways and bmi. Indirect flights can often be cheaper than flying directly.

Flights from the UK land at Imam Khomeini International Airport which is a located around 39 kilometres from the city centre. The best way to get to your Tehran hotel is by taxi and there are plenty at the airport. Taxis are fairly cheap compared to European standards and the journey to the city centre should take around 90 minutes. Look out for the local Samand car as these taxis are cheaper than the Toyota Camry taxis. Alternatively, car hire in Tehran can be a convenient option if you plan to explore the city and it's surroundings as hires cars can be collected and returned at the airport. Just be warned that the traffic in the centre can be painfully congested.

Like any major city, Tehran in home to a wealth of accommodation options from basic guesthouses to opulent five-star resort hotels. If you are on a budget and looking for really cheap hotels in Tehran head to Amir Kabir Street. It's a bit run down, but you'll find plenty of affordable accommodation options.

Tehran's markets are perfect for picking up bargains and a must during a holiday to Tehran. You can get everything from jewellery to computer software at very reasonable prices. Make sure you brush up on your haggling skills to secure a really good deal. For cheap eats head to Khordad Avenue where you'll find plenty of stalls selling delicious falafel.

Getting around during your Tehran holiday doesn't have to cost a fortune, and most of the city can be reached by buses which offer great value for money. However, buses can prove a little confusing. The new metro is by far the fastest way to get around and is still reasonably priced.

• Shiraz