Tehran is the capital and largest city of Iran, located in the northern part of the country, right at the foot of the towering Alborz mountain range. So, if you’re asking, “where is Tehran?”—you’re not alone. This bustling city, home to around 9 million people, is not just the political and cultural hub of Iran, but also a place rich in history, culture, and modern energy. Whether you're curious about its geography, its historical significance, or what makes it tick today, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about where Tehran is and why it matters.
So, where exactly is Tehran located in Iran? Well, it’s in the north, nestled against the southern slopes of the Alborz mountains. It's not just a city on a map—it’s the beating heart of the country, both literally and figuratively. As the capital of Tehran Province and the administrative center of Tehran County, it’s the go-to place for government, commerce, and culture in Iran.
If you were to look at a map, you’d find Tehran sitting at latitude 35.6892° N and longitude 51.3890° E. It’s pretty much right in the middle of northern Iran, making it a strategic location for centuries. From ancient settlements to modern-day skyscrapers, the city has grown a lot since becoming the seat of the Qajar dynasty back in 1786. And today, it’s a vibrant metropolis that blends tradition with modern life in a pretty fascinating way.
Table of Contents
- The Geography of Tehran
- A Glimpse into Tehran's Past
- Population and Urban Life in Tehran
- Finding Tehran on the Map
- Frequently Asked Questions About Where Tehran Is
The Geography of Tehran
Tehran is located in the northern part of Iran, in Western Asia. It sits at the southern edge of the Alborz mountain range, which is a big reason why the city has such a dramatic and scenic backdrop. The Alborz Mountains are tall and rugged, offering a natural barrier to the north and contributing to the city’s unique climate and air quality challenges.
The city itself is built on a high plateau, which means it enjoys a relatively dry climate with cold winters and warm summers. Rainfall is light, but the area around Tehran is still fertile thanks to nearby rivers and underground water sources. Because of its location, Tehran is somewhat sheltered from the harsh desert climates that dominate much of the country’s interior.
So, where is Tehran located in Iran? Pretty much in the center-north, near the country’s geographic heart. That central location has made it a natural hub for transportation and trade, linking the Caspian Sea region to the north with the Persian Gulf to the south. It’s a strategic spot, and that’s probably why it’s been the capital for so long.
A Glimpse into Tehran's Past
Tehran wasn’t always the capital of Iran. Before the Qajar dynasty came to power in the late 18th century, other cities like Isfahan and Shiraz held that title. But in 1786, Tehran became the seat of government, and it’s stayed that way ever since. That’s over two centuries as the country’s most important city.
Originally, Tehran was a small village surrounded by agricultural land and orchards. But as the capital, it grew rapidly. Roads, palaces, and government buildings were built to support the growing bureaucracy and royal court. By the early 20th century, it had become the largest city in Iran, a title it still holds today.
Over time, Tehran absorbed nearby towns and villages, expanding outward in all directions. The city’s architecture tells the story of its growth—traditional Persian homes and bazaars sit side by side with modern high-rises and shopping malls. It’s a city that’s constantly evolving, yet still holds onto its deep historical roots.
Population and Urban Life in Tehran
When people ask “where is Tehran located in Iran?” they’re often curious about its size and population, too. Tehran is not just the political capital—it’s also the country’s most populous city. The city proper has around 9 million residents, and the greater metropolitan area is home to over 14 million people.
That makes Tehran one of the largest cities in the Middle East. It’s a mix of old and new, with neighborhoods ranging from traditional bazaars and winding alleys to modern apartment complexes and business districts. The city is packed with universities, museums, theaters, and parks, making it a cultural hotspot in the region.
Traffic can be heavy, and the city’s air quality has been a concern in recent years, but there’s a lot going on here. From the bustling bazaars to the high-tech districts, Tehran is a city that never sleeps. It’s a place where history and modernity meet, and where millions of people call home.
Finding Tehran on the Map
If you're trying to locate Tehran on a world map, it’s in Western Asia, specifically in the northern part of Iran. It’s not near the Persian Gulf or the borders with Iraq, Turkey, or the Gulf states. Instead, it’s more inland, close to the Caspian Sea to the north and the central Iranian desert to the south.
The exact coordinates of Tehran are 35.6892° N latitude and 51.3890° E longitude. These numbers place it in the northern hemisphere and the eastern hemisphere, making it a city that’s easy to find on digital maps and satellite imagery. If you zoom in on a satellite map, you’ll see the city surrounded by rugged mountains and arid plains.
Many people use online maps to explore Tehran’s neighborhoods and surrounding areas. Interactive maps allow you to see the city’s layout, major roads, and points of interest. So, whether you're planning a trip, doing research, or just curious, there are plenty of digital tools to help you get a better sense of where Tehran is located.
Frequently Asked Questions About Where Tehran Is
1. Is Tehran in the north or south of Iran?
Tehran is located in the northern part of Iran, near the Alborz mountain range. It’s one of the northernmost major cities in the country.
2. What countries border Tehran?
Tehran is in the heart of Iran, so it doesn't directly border any other countries. However, the closest international borders are with Azerbaijan to the northwest, Turkmenistan to the northeast, and Iraq to the west.
3. Is Tehran in the Middle East?
Yes, Tehran is in the Middle East. Iran is considered part of the broader Middle East region, and Tehran is its capital city.
If you’d like to learn more about the geography and history of Tehran, you can check out more details on our site here.

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