Fall in Love with Herat

Wander beneath the blue-tiled minarets, fragrant gardens, and lively bazaars that make Herat Afghanistan's cultural heart.

Gateway to the Silk Road
Alive with Imagination

Once you visit Herat, you become part of Herat.

Whether this is your first journey to Herat or a return to beloved streets, the city's blend of ancient poetry, artisan workshops, and bustling bazaars invites you to linger. Wander in the shadow of the Qala-e Ikhtiyaruddin, sip saffron tea in hidden gardens, and follow the call of live rubab music echoing through the Old City.

"

Herat remains a living crossroads of art, architecture, and craftsmanship.

"

-- Cultural Heritage Magazine, Silk Road Weekly, Caravanserai Journal

Upcoming Events

There is Always Something Happening in Herat

From saffron celebrations to starlit concerts, Herat keeps the calendar filled with culture. Join artisans, musicians, and storytellers as they share the spirit of Afghanistan's western gateway.

APR
12
Herat Saffron Harvest Festival

Herat Saffron Harvest Festival

Herat Citadel Gardens
Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 14, 2025
MAY
03
Silk Road Cultural Week

Silk Road Cultural Week

Great Mosque Square
May 3, 2025 - May 9, 2025
JUN
21
Herat Traditional Music Nights

Herat Traditional Music Nights

Old City Amphitheater
Jun 21, 2025
Plan a Weekend in Herat

Plan a Weekend in Herat

Browse Silk Road Festivals

Browse Silk Road Festivals

Explore Herat's Live Music

Explore Herat's Live Music

Herat Architecture
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Herat City: Poetry in Motion

Experience the timeless beauty of Herat, where turquoise minarets meet centuries-old caravanserais and fragrant gardens. Explore artisan workshops, taste saffron-infused dishes, and listen to traditional music drifting through the Old City. Every corner shares a story from Afghanistan's Silk Road heritage.

Plan Your Arrival

Where to Find Herat City

Herat rests along the storied Silk Road, framed by desert horizons and lush valleys fed by the Hari River. The Old City is compact and walkable, with centuries-old caravanserais leading to artisan workshops and saffron markets. Use this guide to orient yourself before you arrive.

Central Coordinates

34.3482° N, 62.1997° E — right in the historical heart of western Afghanistan.

Nearest Airport

Herat International Airport (HEAT), 10 km east of the city center, with regional connections.

Silk Road Gateway

Easy day trips to the Qala-e Ikhtiyaruddin Citadel, Friday Mosque, and Herat Bazaar Quarter.

Stay in Comfort

Hotels & Guesthouses in Herat

Choose from boutique guesthouses within the Old City walls, contemporary hotels near the airport, or countryside retreats surrounded by saffron farms.

Arg Hotel Herat
Arg Hotel Herat
4.6 / 5 guest reviews

A recently restored property blending traditional Herati tilework with modern comfort. Located steps from the Great Mosque.

0.4 km to Friday Mosque
  • Rooftop terrace
  • Airport transfers
  • Local guide concierge
Qala Heritage Guesthouse
Qala Heritage Guesthouse
4.8 / 5 traveler ratings

Family-run guesthouse inside the Old City walls with intimate courtyards, home-cooked meals, and stories from local artisans.

0.7 km to Qala-e Ikhtiyaruddin Citadel
  • Traditional breakfast
  • Workshop tours
  • Evening tea salon
Saffron Palace Hotel
Saffron Palace Hotel
4.5 / 5 guest reviews

A boutique stay surrounded by saffron fields on the outskirts of Herat, offering serene views and curated cultural excursions.

8 km to Old Bazaar Quarter
  • Garden restaurant
  • On-site hammam
  • Craft workshops

Discover Herat City

20 Ways to Celebrate Spring in Herat

20 Ways to Celebrate Spring in Herat

Mysteries of the Herat Citadel

Mysteries of the Herat Citadel

10 Reasons to Visit Herat Now

10 Reasons to Visit Herat Now