Persian travel phrases for visiting Iran

A short kit of travel phrases makes a trip to Iran smoother and friendlier.

The most useful pattern is ... koja-st? کجاست؟, where is .... So dastshooi koja-st? دستشویی کجاست؟ means "where is the toilet?", a phrase worth its weight in gold.

Getting around

Istgah ایستگاه is a station and forudgah فرودگاه is the airport. For taxis, darbast دربست means a private ride (not shared), and kerayeh chande? asks the fare.

When you need help

Gom shodam گم شدم means "I'm lost." Komak کمک is help. Englisi baladin? انگلیسی بلدین؟ asks "do you speak English?"

Being a good guest

Iranians are famously hospitable, and tarof is everywhere, including with taxi drivers who may first refuse payment. A polite insistence to pay is part of the dance, not a misunderstanding.

Pack koja-st, darbast, gom shodam, and komak, and you can navigate, get help, and stay courteous throughout a visit.