Hormozgan
Bandar Abbas
Persian Gulf port and gateway to Iran's islands
8 highlights · tap a pinBandar Abbas, capital of Hormozgan, is Iran's main southern port and the gateway to the Persian Gulf islands of Hormuz, Qeshm and Hengam. Once the Portuguese-influenced 'Gombroon', it is a hot, humid, multicultural Bandari city of colourful embroidered dress, spicy seafood, a lively fish market and bazaar, a Hindu temple from the British East India Company era, and the therapeutic Geno hot spring in the mountains behind. Most travellers use it as the launch pad for the islands.
Next 5 days
Top places to see
- 1
Bandar Abbas Bazaar
Vibrant covered market with colorful textiles and spices Best place to experience Bandari culture and buy local handicrafts
- Where
- City Center
- Time needed
- 1-2 hours
- Opening hours
- Morning until late afternoon, closed Friday mornings
- 2
Portuguese Castle of Hormuz
16th-century Portuguese fortress ruins Historical site with panoramic Persian Gulf views
- Where
- Hormuz Island
- Time needed
- 1 hour
- Opening hours
- Accessible by ferry from Bandar Abbas, verify ferry schedules
- 3
Geno Hot Spring
Mineral-rich hot springs near the city Popular local retreat with therapeutic waters
- Where
- Geno Mountain
- Time needed
- 2-3 hours
- Opening hours
- Open 24 hours, bring towels
- 4
Bandar Abbas Fish Market
Bustling morning fish auction See the daily catch from Persian Gulf waters
- Where
- Port Area
- Time needed
- 30-45 mins
- Opening hours
- Best 6-9 AM
- 5
Hara Forests
Unique mangrove ecosystems Protected area with rich birdlife
- Where
- Qeshm Island
- Time needed
- Half day
- Opening hours
- Boat tours available from Qeshm
- 6
Bandar Abbas Ethnographic Museum
Cultural exhibits on Bandari traditions Showcases local clothing, music and customs
- Where
- City Center
- Time needed
- 1 hour
- Opening hours
- Verify opening hours before travel
- 7
Hormuz Island Rainbow Valley
Colorful mineral-rich soil formations Striking geological formations in vibrant hues
- Where
- Hormuz Island
- Time needed
- 2 hours
- Opening hours
- Ferry access from Bandar Abbas
- 8
Bandar Abbas Grand Mosque
Modern Islamic architecture Main Friday prayer mosque with distinctive design
- Where
- City Center
- Time needed
- 30 mins
- Opening hours
- Non-Muslims may visit outside prayer times

