Traveling to Urmia City is undoubtedly a memorable and captivating experience if you have sufficient and accurate information about this city from all aspects. Urmia is located in the beautiful province of West Azerbaijan and is considered one of the travel destinations that you should see at least once in your lifetime. The people are warm-hearted and speak various languages such as Persian, Azerbaijani Turkish, and Kurdish. The most beautiful point of this region is Lake Urmia, which was once introduced as the second-largest hypersaline lake in the world. Traveling to Urmia can change your view of the northwestern provinces of Iran altogether. If you have not traveled to this region yet, then join us in this article from Eligasht because we are about to surprise you significantly.
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Geographical Location of Urmia city
Right in the northwest of the map of Iran, you will come across a border city of great importance named “Urmia.” This city is bordered by Salmas to the north, Naqdeh to the south, Lake Urmia to the east, and Turkey to the west. Geographically, Urmia is situated exactly 20 kilometers from Lake Urmia amidst the Forty Martyrs, Seer, Qiz Qal’eh, Jahoodha, Ali Panjesi, and Ali Iman Dashti mountains. Its elevation is 1,332 meters above sea level, experiencing extremely cold and harsh winters and moderate and spring-like summers.
A Glimpse into Urmia’s History
The city of Urmia has a very ancient history. In the past, this city was known as “Chi Chist” or “Chi Chesta.” However, some Assyrians called this city “Urmiya,” Armenians referred to it as “Urmi,” Arabs as “Urmiah,” and Iranians as “Urumi.” The word “Urmia” is derived from two parts, “Ur” and “Mia,” which in ancient languages means place, city, location, fortress, and also the word “Mia” or “Mieh,” which means water.
In this city and in ancient times, there was a lot of water. This is why it was called Urmia or the city of water. Other titles it held include “City of Water,” “City of Religions,” “Paris of Iran,” and “Dar ol-Neshat.” It’s interesting to note that during the Pahlavi era, it was also called “Reza’iyeh.” Urmia, in the true sense of the word, is one of those places where human civilizations took shape. Ancient artifacts and evidence indicate that Urmia was fully inhabited and habitable during the rule of the Medes. Some historians even believe that the birth of the Zoroastrian religion took place in this city.
Travel Routes to Urmia
How you travel to Urmia city is of great importance because it offers you various routes. You can use buses, trains, or private cars to travel to Urmia. We will now tell you how to reach Urmia using each of these modes of transportation.
Air Travel –Urmia City
If you decide to travel to Urmia by plane, you should know that the distance from Tehran to Urmia is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. From Mashhad, it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and from Isfahan, you can reach Urmia after 1 hour and 20 minutes. Your plane will land at Urmia’s Shahid Beheshti International Airport, located 15 kilometers on the Salmas road.
Introduction to Urmia Airport and Its Accessibility
Urmia International Airport, known as Shahid Beheshti Airport, was established in 1963 to the north of the city, serving as the main airport for West Azerbaijan Province. Due to its proximity to three foreign countries, the airport holds a strategic and unique position. Being centrally located in the city, it provides easy access to various destinations. Additionally, numerous taxis from the airport ensure convenient transportation to all parts of the city.
Ground Travel
If air travel is not your preference, trains are a great option for traveling to Urmia. Urmia Railway Station is located in the southeast of the city and is one of the largest railway stations in the country. This railway spans 185 kilometers, connecting West Azerbaijan to Zanjan, Qazvin, Tehran, and East Azerbaijan. From this railway station, you can easily reach Mashhad, Yazd, Tehran, Qom, Bandar Abbas, Tabriz, Shiraz, Kerman, Isfahan, and vice versa.
Introduction to Urmia Railway Station and Its Accessibility
Urmia Railway Station commenced operations in November 2018. It is connected to the Tehran-Tabriz railway line through the Maragheh-Urmia railway line, offering full amenities for passengers. The distance from Urmia Railway Station to the city center is 8 kilometers, and with no traffic, you can reach the station in 15 minutes by taxi. The architecture of this station is designed to reflect the beauty of the city’s traditional architecture and surroundings. Furthermore, all necessary facilities for individuals with mobility disabilities are incorporated into this railway station.
Bus Terminals in Urmia
It is worth mentioning that you can also travel to beautiful Urmia city by bus. The intercity bus terminal of Urmia is located exactly on Haft-e Tir Street, opposite the Qasr Hotel. From this terminal, numerous buses and shuttles travel to destinations such as the southern terminal in Tehran, the Beihaqi terminal in Argentina Square, and cities like Ardabil, Varamin, Qazvin, Qom, Sari, Isfahan, Behshahr, Ajabshir, Mashhad, Shiraz, Ahvaz, Bukan, Khoy, Sardasht, Miandoab, Poldasht, Zanjan, Kermanshah, Hamadan, Khorramabad, Ardabil, Ilam, Yazd, Gorgan, and other destinations across the country, transporting passengers. At the same time, buses and shuttles from Tehran and almost all other cities in Iran bring many passengers to this bus terminal.
Public Transportation in Urmia
Public transportation in Urmia operates like in other major cities in Iran. Urmia is the second city in Iran in terms of high traffic volume. Approximately 250,000 vehicles travel through the city daily, and unfortunately, the city streets are not adequate to handle this number of vehicles. Consequently, to reduce traffic congestion, the government has strengthened public transportation in the city. For various intra-city trips, regular buses and minibusses have been provided, alongside taxis that transport passengers at regulated rates.
Essential City Information in the Urmia Travel Guide
- Languages: Persian, Azerbaijani Turkish, and Kurdish
- Area Code: 044
- 24/7 Flight Information: 199
- Contact Urmia Passenger Terminal: 04432368636 – 04432358318
- Distance from Tehran: 765 kilometers
Best Travel Season and Weather in Urmia City
The best time to travel to Urmia is from early July to the end of September. Urmia is a cold region, with harsh and challenging winters. However, from early July to September, the weather is extremely moderate and mild. Summers in Urmia can be crowded, which is why some individuals prefer the winter and autumn seasons for traveling to this city.
introduction to the Best Attractions and Sights of Urmia
Urmia, like other cities in Iran, boasts a plethora of tourist and historical attractions. Additionally, the nature in Urmia is one of its strong points, making this city remarkable and beautiful alongside other sights. In the following, we will tell you about the recreational and tourist attractions of Urmia, what they are called, and how they can make your trip to Urmia memorable and enjoyable.
Sheikh Tappeh Forest Park
One of the most popular and spectacular attractions in Urmia City is the “Sheikh Tappeh Forest Park,” which spans an area of 44 hectares, equipped with various facilities such as fast food, cafes, restaurants, and an amusement park. Additionally, the “Khoshaku Ski Resort,” located 30 kilometers west of Urmia, invites you to a unique experience in the snow and cold. The “Egg Park” is popular due to its market stalls and a dedicated children’s play area.
Daneshjoo Park or Gollar Baghi
The “Daneshjoo Park or Gollar Baghi” is another park where you are greeted with five hundred thousand types of flower bushes, making it a unique and visually stunning sight in spring. Moreover, the coastal village of “Chi Chast,” located 18 kilometers from Urmia on the road leading to Lake Urmia, offers various recreational activities such as karting, billiards, paragliding, rally tracks, and other amenities for the well-being of tourists and travelers. Additionally, “Bari Coastal Village,” “Clock Park,” “Fanous Coastal Village,” and “Mardom Garden” are among the other attractions in Urmia.
Lake Urmia
Lake Urmia is one of the most famous natural attractions of this region. This lake is known as the largest internal lake in Iran and the second saltiest lake in the world. The saltwater of Urmia Lake has many healing properties that attract many tourists. In addition, numerous islands in the lake, including Ashk Island and Kabudan Island, are the habitats of migratory and native birds, which present a unique view. Urmia City
Nane Maryam Church
Nane Maryam Church is one of the oldest churches in the world and one of the most important historical attractions of Urmia City. This church, which is also known as the Church of Hazrat Maryam, has attracted the attention of tourists and researchers with its special architecture and rich history. It is said that this church was built in the first century AD by the followers of Jesus Christ and has been known as a holy place since then.
The old market of Urmia
The old market of Urmia is one of the important commercial and cultural centers of this city. This market with its traditional architecture and narrow alleys provides a pleasant and nostalgic atmosphere for visitors. In this market, you can find all kinds of local products, handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs of Urmia. The old market of Urmia is not only a place for buying and selling but also displays part of the history and culture of this city.
Urmia Grand Mosque
Urmia Grand Mosque is one of the most important religious and historical buildings of this city. This mosque, with its Islamic architecture and beautiful tiling, is considered one of the outstanding examples of Islamic art and culture in Urmia City. The construction of this mosque dates back to the Seljuk period and since then it has been known as one of the important religious and cultural centers of Urmia.
Urmia Zoo
With a collection of native and non-native animals, Urmia Zoo is one of the recreational attractions of this city. Offering educational and scientific information about animals, especially for children, this zoo is an ideal place to spend a fun and informative day. In this zoo, you can get to know all kinds of animals up close and enjoy watching them.
Ghasemlu Valley
Ghasemlu Valley is one of the most beautiful and pristine natural areas of Urmia city. With stunning natural views, beautiful waterfalls, and hiking trails, this valley is an ideal place for nature lovers and mountaineers. The clean air and natural scenery of this valley attract many tourists every year.
Urmia Museum
Urmia Museum is one of the cultural and historical centers of this city that displays a collection of ancient, cultural, and artistic works. This museum includes different sections including archeology, anthropology, and traditional arts. Visiting this museum can provide visitors with valuable information about the history and culture of Urmia and the West Azerbaijan region.
Hot springs
Urmia has several natural hot springs that have many healing properties. These springs are especially used to treat skin and joint diseases. Among the most famous hot springs in Urmia, Haftabad hot springs and Band hot springs can be mentioned.
Historical Attractions of Urmia City
In describing the historical attractions, one can mention the “Do Ghooz Pelleh Icehouse” and the “Abgineh Exhibition.” The history of the icehouse dates back to the Qajar era, and in the Abgineh Exhibition, you will come face to face with works of handicrafts, glassblowing, and glass painting done by Urmia artists.
Also, do not miss a visit to the “Mar Sergis Church,” which is one of the Armenian and Assyrian churches, and the “Tamteh Cave,” located 18 kilometers southwest of Urmia and dating back to the Stone Age, is also counted among the historical sights of Urmia. All the attractions in this city are fascinating and marvelous.
Distance from Urmia to the Iran-Turkey Border
You may not know that the city of Van in Turkey shares a border with Iran, making it one of the most attractive tourist destinations. It’s interesting to note that if you intend to travel to Van by land, you can reach Turkey from the Razi, Bazargan, and Sarv borders. The distance from the Razi border to Van is 106 kilometers, a journey that can be covered in 1 hour and 30 minutes. Next, you reach the Bazargan border, which is 200 kilometers from Van and takes 2 hours and 30 minutes to travel. The third border, the Sarv border to Van, is 250 kilometers away and can be covered in 3 hours and 30 minutes by a personal vehicle. The Sarv border is open for 24-hour traffic without restrictions.
The Best Hotels in Urmia – From Luxury to Budget
In Urmia, various hotels are catering to tourists and travelers, ranging from five-star to three-star accommodations. The best hotels are typically five-star hotels. Deniz Hotel and Ana Hotel are the only five-star hotels shining in Urmia. The Park Hotel, Arya Hotel, and Jahangardi Guesthouse are four-star accommodations that provide an attractive stay. Additionally, three-star hotels like Morvarid Hotel, Kara Hotel, and Sahel Urmia Hotel also offer suitable services for tourists and travelers.
Delicious Local Foods in Urmia city
The best and most appealing foods in Urmia can cater to different tastes, but rest assured that you won’t regret any of your choices. Dishes like Kangar Stew, Cabbage Soup, Urmia Pickle Stew, Urmia Stew, Dolmeh Barg-e Mo, Gozleme, Doogh Soup, and Gheshniyz Kebab are among the delicious foods in Urmia served in restaurants. Various sweets such as Gol Mohammadi, Bidmeshk, and Saffron alongside pastries like Sujuk, Tandoor pastries, and Luzanak along with carrot halva and walnut halva are also prepared and offered in all traditional confectioneries in Urmia.
Best Restaurants in Urmia – Travel to Urmia
When traveling to Urmia, don’t miss out on the restaurants and cuisine of this city. If you love traditional food, we recommend Kashkool Restaurant, Darchin Restaurant, Rozegaran Restaurant, Bam-e Sabz Turk Mall Restaurant, and Gazmaakh Restaurant.
Among fast-food options, Choubin Fast Food, Dr. Joan Fast Food, Jaguar, and Moonlight Fast Food are considered among the best.
You can also enjoy the best Turkish kebabs at Flamingo Restaurant, Diako, Salt Cave, Kababchi, and Molavi.
You can savor authentic Turkish dishes at Hoore Turkish Restaurant, Owa Restaurant, and Rohit Ousta Turkish Food.
Introduction to Urmia’s Edible Souvenirs and Handicrafts
The souvenirs of Urmia are famous and popular. Urmia boasts a variety of handicrafts. Delicate needlework, carpets, wood carving, embroidery, marquetry, kilims, jajim (a type of rug), pottery, wooden items, needlepoint, traditional printing, painting, and wood carving are some of the artworks of Urmia artists that you can carry as non-edible souvenirs.
Famous Markets and Shopping Centers in Urmia – Travel to Urmia
It’s worth mentioning that in this city, like other cities, you can visit both traditional markets and modern shopping centers for your purchases. Shopping centers such as Reza Bags and Shoes Shopping Center, Milad Noor Commercial Complex, Berlan, Turk Mall, Pardis, Berelian, and Jalali Passage are places where you can shop for your needs.
Additionally, the old bazaar of Urmia, along with the Ahandoost Bazaar and the old bazaar of the city, are traditional centers for buying Urmia’s souvenirs and handicrafts.
Local traditions of Urmia city
In the city of Urmia, like other parts of Iran, you can observe various customs and traditions. For example, Eid-e Fetr, and Nowruz are all events that occur similarly throughout Iran. However, due to the presence of different ethnicities and nationalities in Urmia, some ceremonies may be held differently. For instance, Kurds have their ceremonies, while Armenian and Assyrian people celebrate their religious holidays.
- The Il Jalali tribe celebrates Eid al-Adha by sacrificing sheep and cows, wearing new clothes, and celebrating this holiday. However, they do not have much belief in grandly celebrating Nowruz.
- The Il Mamakanlu tribe considers both Eid-e Fetr and Eid al-Adha very important and holds detailed celebrations and feasts for these two holidays.
- The Herki tribe organizes elaborate celebrations for Eid al-Adha, Eid al-Fitr, and the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.
- The Qarapapaq tribe celebrates Nowruz more solemnly compared to other holidays.
Conducting Ceremonies in Urmia
The way ceremonies are conducted and the importance of celebrations and festivals among the people of Azerbaijan is quite different due to the diversity of ethnicity and nationality. This holds for mourning ceremonies and weddings as well. For example, at the provincial level, especially in rural areas, weddings are usually held in the autumn. The ceremonies begin with showing and organizing the engagement, during which celebrations continue with performances, games, and theatrical scenes that all take place at the bride’s home. During weddings, many songs and chants are sung, and guests engage in dancing and foot stomping to music.
However, it is important to emphasize that due to the diversity of ethnicities in Azerbaijan, you may encounter specific customs and traditions of that particular ethnic group in any given area, which may bear no resemblance to the customs of other ethnicities and nationalities in the region.
Final words
Urmia city is a captivating destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness. Urmia promises an unforgettable travel experience. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your visit to this enchanting city.
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Bastam Fortress in Urmia, a Structure from the Urartian Civilization with an Age of 800 Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Urmia City located?
You are in the northwestern part of the map of Iran, facing a border and a very important county called “Urmia,” which is the center of West Azerbaijan province and is only 20 kilometers away from Lake Urmia.
What kind of climate does Urmia have?
Urmia is situated in a mountainous region, experiencing cold and harsh winters and mild and pleasant springs and summers as a result.
What is the best time to visit Urmia?
The best time to visit Urmia is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot, while winters are cold with occasional snowfall.
How can I get to Urmia?
Urmia City can be reached by air via Urmia International Airport (OMH), which has regular flights connecting it to major cities in Iran and neighboring countries. The city is also accessible by road, with buses and taxis providing convenient transportation options.
What are the top attractions in Urmia?
Some of the top attractions in Urmia include Urmia Lake, Urmia Museum, and Urmia Bazaar. Each of these sites offers unique experiences and insights into the city’s rich heritage.