Hotel Classification System in Iran

First of all, I shall mention that the hotel rating system in Iran is regulated by the Iran

Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization (ICHTO), which is the governmental

organization responsible for tourism-related matters in Iran. The ICHTO establishes the criteria

and standards for hotel classification and oversees the implementation of these regulations.

4 Different Types of Hotels in Iran

Types of Hotels in Iran: Star Hotels

Let’s start to talk about the different kinds of hotels in Iran by Star Hotels. Hotel starring

is an international system, but some countries incorporate their own standards. For this reason,

the concept of stars in Iran may be slightly different from European, American, or other Asian

countries.

Despite these differences, we can largely predict the amenities of the hotels based on the

number of stars. The rating of the stars is based on the amenities and services provided to

travelers, such as restaurants, swimming pools, views and area of rooms, room facilities and

suites, sports services such as spa and sauna, staff interaction, and fluency in several languages,

free internet and more.

5-Star Hotel in Iran

Luxury accommodations in Iran, known as 5-star hotels, consistently meet global

standards of excellence. These hotels offer opulent experiences, boasting magnificent

architectural designs, breathtaking room views, and exceptional services and amenities. Adorned

with valuable artworks, both the rooms and public spaces exude grandeur.

Moreover, these hotels provide convenient access to various shops and taxi services.

Typically housing over 100 rooms, luxury hotels in Iran feature spacious courtyards, welcoming

lobbies, and cozy accommodations. The sleeping areas are of exceptional quality, featuring

either large or standard-sized beds, premium mattresses, and impeccably clean bedding.

4-Star Hotel

4-star hotels in Iran offer fewer facilities than 5-star hotels, but their quality is much

higher than average. Usually in these hotels, the view of the hotel is beautiful, the lobby is stylish

and comfortable and the public spaces are beautifully designed. Large or regular size beds,

quality mattresses and bedding, skylights, minibar, regular housekeeping, and other facilities

such as fridge, towel, and wardrobe in the room or suite are provided.

The restaurant and coffee shop are of excellent quality and serve a varied menu. The

hotel staff is trained and can speak and enjoy several languages. At the same time, like a 5-star

hotel in Iran, they are responsible for carrying passengers’ luggage.

Sports facilities at these hotels usually include a swimming pool, sauna, massage, gym,

and spa. 4-star hotels in Iran are sometimes priced equal to luxury hotels and sometimes cheaper.

3-Star Hotel in Iran

Another category of hotels is 3-star hotels in Iran, which usually have the same

reservation price as their facilities. However, being mediocre does not mean poor facilities.
 In a 3-star hotel in Iran, also called Comfort, the rooms are average, air-conditioned and

the quality of the bed, mattresses, and bedding is good. Services such as laundry and

housekeeping are provided, but room cleaning may not be provided during our stay without our

request. The rooms have toilets, bathrooms, and refrigerators, toiletries such as towels and

shampoo, and telephones.

2-Star Hotel in Iran

When staying at a 2-star hotel in Iran, the distinction in hotel rating becomes more

noticeable. While these hotels may lack luxurious amenities, cleanliness is given due

consideration. The number of rooms in 2-star hotels is not extensive, typically offering medium

to small-sized accommodations equipped with basic amenities such as a TV and telephone.

Some of these hotels feature on-site restaurants; however, dining services may not always

be available in a separate dining room. In Iran, a 2-star hotel is also commonly referred to as a

standard hotel category.

1-Star Hotel in Iran

1-star hotels in Iran meet standards, but the level and quality of their facilities are

minimal. The number and area of the rooms are usually small and they may not have very good

lighting. Most 1-star hotels in Iran have shared bathrooms and sometimes toilets.

These hotels do not have a large number of staff and provide poor service to guests.

However, one should not assume that one-star hotels do not have passengers. Due to the

cheapness and affordability of these hotels, those with limited budgets can stay in these hotels.
 Types of Hotels in Iran: Eco-lodges

Eco-lodges are a type of accommodation in Iran that is in harmony with the nature

around it. Eco-lodge is made up of a combination of two words, Eco meaning environmentally

friendly, and Lodge meaning residence.

Tourists stay in eco-lodges in Iran to travel to the pristine nature and villages and visit the

natural beauties of the region. On this kind of trip, they can taste the delicious taste of local food

and experience the making of handicrafts. Tourists get the opportunity to interact with the local

community properly and receive unique experiences. In contrast, the local community benefits

from the profits and revenues of the tourism industry in a balanced way.

Features of Eco-lodges in Iran:

The utmost priority for eco-lodges lies in recognizing and preserving the environment

and indigenous culture of the region.

It is essential for eco-lodges to engage with and contribute positively to the local

community.

When constructing eco-lodges, great care is taken to adhere to the traditional architectural

styles of the region while minimizing any detrimental impact on the surroundings.

To promote sustainability, eco-lodges are designed to maximize energy efficiency,

striving to minimize water, electricity, and gas consumption.

Such accommodations usually have a lower level of service. Ordinary accommodations

have a better level of service and easier access and are welcomed by tourists. These

accommodations are of interest to tourists who want to experience a cozy and comfortable stay

with acceptable amenities and enjoy the natural scenery in Iran.

 Types of Hotels in Iran: Traditional Hotels/ Houses

Iran, the ancient land, with its unique history and civilization, has relics of its ancestors.

Culture-oriented hotels or traditional hotels in Iran are built according to the culture and history

of the city and historical design is considered in the design of the facade and its materials.

Building such hotels is time-consuming and expensive, which is why old and historic houses

have been turned into traditional hotels. Traditional hotels in Iran take us to the heart of history

and connect with the roots of Iranian culture.

The pleasure of drinking tea in a slim cup, crockery, traditional food and music, sitting on

the rug, stained glass windows, etc. are some of the most exciting experiences of staying in a

traditional hotel in Iran. Such hotels are completely built with the architecture of the past and

every corner has a sign of history.

 Types of Hotels in Iran: Boutique Hotels

The boutique hotels in Iran have features that set them apart from the rest and make them

attractive. This style of hotel is not very spacious, is smaller than other hotels, and has less than

100 rooms, which makes it easier to serve travelers. Of course, this does not mean that it has a

small space, but it shows that they kept the hotel not crowded and tourists feel comfortable as if

they are at home. This type of hotel does not have a large area and its facilities are acceptable

and keep travelers satisfied with its appropriate equipment.

Due to the small size, the atmosphere of a boutique hotel in Iran should not be

disappointing, so we have always tried to design it in an attractive and impressive way.

Charming colors and designs, enchanting decorations, sculptures, antiques, etc. are some of the

things you will find in the boutique hotel and give you a pure sense of calm. In such hotels, the
color spectrum is of special importance and by mixing the colors together, a beautiful effect is

given to the eyes of travelers.