Upon arrival at Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA), there are numerous options for getting to the city, depending on your budget and needs. Taxi, private transfer, shared transfer, and public transport are all viable options. This guide will help you navigate the possibilities so your journey starts as smoothly as possible.
Official taxi ranks are usually located at the exits of the airport terminals. It is advisable to choose the official taxi rank and agree on the fare with the driver in advance. Taxis generally use a meter, but for flights departing from the airport, there are often pre-determined fares. A trip to the city center usually takes 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
A private transfer is a more comfortable but more expensive solution. Most providers can be booked in advance, and the driver will wait for you at the designated location (usually in the terminal arrivals hall). The meeting point and the driver's name/phone number must be confirmed during booking. Prices are generally fixed and include all costs. With a private transfer, you can reach the city center in about 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
A shared transfer is a more cost-effective solution, especially if you are traveling alone. Minibuses carry multiple passengers and stop at several locations, so the journey may be longer. A shared transfer is worthwhile if you are not in a hurry and do not mind sharing the vehicle with others. A trip to the city center can take 60-90 minutes.
Public transport (such as train or metro) is the cheapest solution, but also the least comfortable. Trains and metros departing from the airport operate to various parts of the city. The duration of the journey varies depending on the destination. Buses are also available, but are less frequent and require a longer travel time.
The duration and cost of getting to the city center are influenced by several factors, including traffic, time of day, and the amount of luggage. During peak hours (morning and afternoon), traffic can significantly slow down travel.
| Mode of Transport | Duration (approx.) | Price (EUR, approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 30-60 minutes | 15-30 |
| Private transfer | 30-60 minutes | 30-60 |
| Shared transfer | 60-90 minutes | 10-20 |
| Train/Metro | 45-90 minutes | 2-5 |
| Bus | 90-120 minutes | 1-3 |
Durations and prices may vary depending on traffic and the season.
Popular destinations from Imam Khomeini International Airport: Tehran city center, hotels in various parts of the city, and nearby cities such as Karaj and Rey.
Official taxi ranks are usually located at the exits of the terminals.
A trip to the city center usually takes 30-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
A private transfer can be booked in advance online or at airport service providers.
A private transfer is individual, while a shared transfer carries multiple passengers.
A taxi generally costs 15-30 euros to the city center.
Most taxis accept cash, but some also accept bank cards.
Yes, there is a train connection from the airport to the city, but not direct.
Public transport is worth it when cost is the most important consideration.
The driver will wait for you in the arrivals hall, with the specified name and phone number.
Contact the airport information desks or the taxi service provider.
During peak hours (morning and afternoon), traffic can significantly slow down travel.