TEHRAN - When the clock strikes and the lights go out, and in the absence of stop-and-go traffic, it may be a good time to visit another face of the Iranian capital.

Hugging the lower slopes of the magnificent, snowcapped Alborz Mountains, Tehran is the nation’s dynamic beating heart and the place to get a handle on modern Iran and what its future will probably be.

Spend time here –as you should– and you’ll soon realize that the city is much more than a chaotic mess of concrete and frenzied traffic shrouded in a haze of polluted air.

As you explore this fascinating metropolis, you can travel through more than 250 years of Iranian history - from the magnificent Golestan Palace and the nearby Grand Bazaar to the beautiful Azadi Tower and the infamous former U.S. Embassy. Moreover, the city has wonderful museums and tranquil gardens. In such places, along with modern cafes, traditional teahouses, and mountain hiking trails, you can enjoy all the good things that Tehran has to offer.

Nightlife in Tehran is safe. In fact, Iran is a safe country and police officers everywhere are trying to keep the city peaceful. Tehran can be called the most dangerous city in Iran due to its population, but if you are careful with your valuables, nothing happens and you can enjoy the city even at night.

For more safety assurance, try to walk around at night with a friend or ask the locals where they go. Tehran’s nightlife is the biggest and best in the country, but you need to know where to enjoy it. Here are some vibes you may not like to miss:

Modern parks and large shopping malls

Urban parks and shopping malls are some of the important recreation sources when it comes to major cities. Pol-e Tabiat (“Nature Bridge”), which is surrounded by green hills, and Lake Chitgar are among popular hangouts connected to nature. Go there to get a fresh air, see a mesmerizing modern architecture, have dinner and meet nice welcoming people. If you are lucky, you’ll get some delicious street food out there.

Milad Tower

Dominating the skyline of Tehran’s western suburbs, Milad Tower is 435m high, including 120m of the antenna, making it, in 2017, the world’s sixth-tallest free-standing tower.

Observation decks and a revolving restaurant are of particular interest to regular visitors.

Street music

Over the past couple of years, playing live music on the streets of Tehran has become more popular than before. Many professionals are playing in the streets, trying to make a happier society. Mostly, there are traditional instruments and vocalists.

You may also go to a music performance in Vahdat Hall, Milad Tower or Roudaki Hall to see Iran’s musical and theatrical arts. There are cafes and restaurants around to get your night going around the concert hall.

Holy places and shrines

Visiting holy places is great at night time when you can admire eye-catching scenes of beauty, reflected colors, and lights of the tiles.

You may socialize with the faithful and pilgrims in a place usually decorated with numerous mirrorwork that make you dazzle.

Cafes

There are no bars in Iran, and alcohol is entirely restricted. You won’t find any public places to drink and dance. But you’ll find many people hanging out in cafes, grabbing some soft drinks, and chit-chatting.

Among these people, you’ll find many who would like to join and begin a conversation with you on sociology, politics, culture, history, etc.

Traditional nights

If you are a fan of traditional nightlife, restaurants in Darakeh, Farahzad, and Darband are the best choices. The best Iranian kebab with live music and traditional snacks made of Iranian nuts and fruits are a small bit of what you can find out there.

Street food

If you are looking for tasty street foods of all kinds, you must visit Si-e Tir St. in downtown Tehran. The thoroughfare now is a cradle for new experiences since it has been paved and closed on cars at nights.

Out there, you’ll find many vans and kiosks selling different kinds of Iranian and international foods at a cheap price. It is surely worth a visit.

AM