Amazing Tourist Attractions of Bandar Anzali, Gilan

Introduction to the breathtaking tourist attractions and recreational spots of Bandar Anzali

Bandar Anzali is one of the most densely populated cities and the second largest city after Rasht in Gilan province. This city is one of the most important tourist destinations and a significant economic center in Iran. It houses the largest and first port on the southern coast of the Caspian Sea, located in Gilan province.

The breakwater, Anzali Lagoon, wildlife sanctuary, and the beachfront village of Bandar Anzali are among the beautiful sights that make it one of the most stunning ports in Iran. The blue water lilies in the lagoon, the historic breakwater, and the waterfront boulevard attract numerous tourists from all around the world. This section will introduce you to the delights of this tourism hub.SelMagzThis segment will introduce you to the beautiful sights of this city.

Tourist Attractions of Bandar Anzali

Anzali Lagoon

The existence of the international Anzali Lagoon provides a breeding ground for aquatic life and a sanctuary for both native and migratory birds. Within the lagoon, there are beautiful islands, contributing to the city’s charm and attractions. The lagoon’s area reaches 120 square kilometers in spring and winter due to increased rainfall, and it decreases to 80 square kilometers in autumn and summer. On the lagoon’s shore, there are two beautiful cities, Bandar Anzali and Abkenar.

With over a hundred bird species, hundreds of plant species, and 50 types of fish, the Anzali Lagoon forms an unparalleled ecosystem, with the largest portion protected in the Sarakankal Nature Reserve. The bond between the Kushiro Lagoon and Anzali Lagoon can be referred to as a sister relationship. Boat riding on the lagoon is one of the most enjoyable moments of a trip to Bandar Anzali, creating lasting memories.

Anzali Lagoon

Beach Boulevard of Bandar Anzali

Another tourist attraction in Anzali is the Quds Beach Boulevard, also known as the Anzali Coastal Park. This boulevard is one of the oldest in the area and is considered the first modern park in Iran styled like European parks. The view this boulevard provides of the Caspian Sea, entrance to the Anzali International Lagoon, and port facilities creates a pleasant atmosphere for every tourist.

The historical border between Bandar Anzali and Tsarist Russia in the past made travel between them easier, giving the city a European vibe, reflected in its architecture. For example, you can observe the movement of ships at the harbor from the beachfront park, birds flying over the Caspian Sea, the gentle dance of waves along the breakwater, and the sunlight shimmering on the rolling green waves alongside speedy motorboats.SunlightYou can vividly see the sunlight on the green waves and the speedy motorboats.

Other wonders include beautifully crafted staircases, a stunning lion statue, decorative bushes, gazebos, and basins with tall fountains among citrus and pine trees, vibrant flower pots enhancing the beauty of this coastal park.

Military Museum of Anzali

The large windows of this stunning building open towards the Caspian Sea from the north and a lush garden to the south. Although this museum carries the military name, its delicate and beautiful architecture overshadows its military formality. The military palace museum rests like a majestic swan in a beautiful garden, enchanting every visitor with the fragrance oforange blossomIt delights visitors with its fragrance. This palace was built by Iranian engineers under the decree of Reza Khan in 1308 and completed two years later.

Beach Village of Bandar Anzali

The largest garden community in Iran is the beachfront village of Bandar Anzali. This complex is situated between the Shali Var and Bibi Hoorieh Ghazyans neighborhoods in the Ghazyans area. Though it has been 48 years since its inception by the late Farhangi, it remains one of the most beautiful tourist villages in Iran. About 20% of its land area is covered by villas, emphasizing the importance of green spaces in the beachfront village.

In addition to villas and green areas, the beachfront village of Bandar Anzali has remarkable amenities such as restaurants, a mosque, parks, shops, swimming areas for brothers and sisters, beachfront villas, gazebos, sports fields, and more.

Sarakhankal Wildlife Sanctuary

A section of Anzali Lagoon, located centrally, is the Sarakhankal Lagoon, which is a protected area. Sarakhankal is the only access point to the water lilies as it is considered the tourism heartbeat of the lagoon. Migratory birds such as geese, various ducks, swans, coots, and seagulls spend their winter here.

The vegetation of Sarakhankal includes three types of coles, azolla, and reeds, with the dominant plant species being bulrush and reed. This is a primary nesting and breeding ground for seabirds, associated with the blooming of water lilies in Anzali Lagoon.

Hafezieh Anzali

The white building resembling Hafezieh of Shiraz is located on the beachfront boulevard of Anzali next to the municipality building, constructed in 1311 by a group of German engineers at the city’s request. Before this, Hafezieh Anzali served as a venue for music concerts and is still recognized by this name due to its resemblance to Hafezieh. Nowadays, this site is utilized for exhibitions of handicrafts and paintings, apart from its tourist attraction.

Hafezieh Anzali

Bridges of Anzali

Interestingly, in the past, travel between the two cities of Anzali and Ghazyans was done by boat. In 1314, Anzali and Ghazyans bridges were constructed to facilitate easy communication between these two cities.

Anzali Clock Tower

In response to a user’s question in the tourism section of SelMagz regarding Anzali Clock Tower, we should mention that it is one of the oldest buildings in Anzali. Despite its age, it accurately tells the time and is located behind Sepah market and Anzali square. This tower was built in 1194 SH by the governor Naser al-Din Shah, Khosro Khan Gurji in Anzali.

Anzali Breakwater

This breakwater was built to prevent sea waves from damaging ships and boats. Now, it has become a popular spot for walking in Anzali. Almost every visitor to Anzali has a memorable photo by this breakwater. Walking along the Anzali breakwater and overlooking Anzali beach, the sea, and the coastal boulevard creates beautiful, unforgettable memories for every tourist.

Mirza Kuchak Khan Pleasure Boat

The construction of the Mirza Kuchak Khan pleasure boat dates back to 1971 in Japan. This boat, which includes five decks, is 12 meters wide, 20 meters tall, and 74 meters long, featuring 27 first-class and second-class cabins, accommodating approximately 250 passengers. Interestingly, the boat’s accommodation level is comparable to four-star hotels.

This boat can also travel between foreign provinces and coastal areas. The facilities and accommodations on the Mirza Kuchak Khan pleasure boat welcome tourists every year who wish to spend an unforgettable night by the Caspian Sea.

Church of the Holy Mary

The Church of the Holy Mary is one of the main churches in Gilan province, located in Bandar Anzali. This church was built in 1885 by an Armenian named “Avak Malek Allah Wordian” at his personal expense. The church is rectangular, oriented from east to west, with its internal walls covered in plaster and the external walls coated with cement.

Ashpala Village

This village, located near Bandar Anzali, is a special and beautiful tranquil spot that few tourists are familiar with. After this village, there is a forest park with a lovely pond where you can enjoy hours of peacefulness in the forest and observe its beauty.

Ashpala Village of Bandar Anzali

Markets of Anzali

The markets of Anzali have a historical, charming, and unique legacy, making them pleasant sights in the city.

Anzali Saturday Market

This market has been operating since 1307, where villagers sell their agricultural products, dairy, and handmade items.

Sepah Market

In the shops of this market, located along the beautiful cobblestone Sepah Street and adjacent narrow alleys alongside older buildings, various clothing and shoes are sold.

Central Asia Market

One of the attractions of Bandar Anzali is the Central Asia Market, situated next to the beautiful Anzali beach.

Gilaar Market

Gilaar Market is one of the markets in Anzali, located in the Ghazyans area, selling Turkish and Russian goods.

Climate of Bandar Anzali

Due to its northern location, Bandar Anzali has a humid, rainy, and mild climate and experiences a sultry atmosphere during the warm months.

Best Time to Visit

This city is beautiful in all seasons, each presenting a unique color; however, the best time to visit Bandar Anzali is in the early months of the year and in spring, especially May. Winter in Bandar Anzali is also mild, with the most rain occurring in September and October.

Bandar Anzali

Foods You Can Enjoy in Bandar Anzali

Now that you have seen the beauties of Bandar Anzali, make sure to visit the food stalls and treat yourself. Bandar Anzali is one of the primary fishing centers in Gilan, with the white fish and Caspian salmon being the best types of fish found here. Do not miss out on seafood dishes and try this fish in traditional restaurants in Anzali. Below are some dishes you can enjoy during your visit: