Lonely Planet Review
The Ferdossi Grand has long been the choice of upper mid-range travellers seeking a bed near Tehran's main sights. Great location, yes, but in years past we always described it as 'comfortable' - code for 'functional but drab'. Not anymore: new management has converted it into a spiffing new hotel.
Indeed, the makeover has transformed the Ferdossi Grand into one of the best mid-range deals in town. The location is still unbeatable - three minutes walk to the bedazzling National Jewels Museum; four minutes to the National Museum of Iran; 10min to the Golestan Palace and the bazaar - but the service, restaurants and rooms are also a drawcard. Okay, so there's nothing groundbreaking in their design, but the decor, facilities and comfortable beds are worth mention. We found the English-speaking service both efficient and mostly able to answer questions. The pool and gym - both segregated by sex - are uncommon extras. The restaurants have improved significantly and if you need, like so many travellers who have emailed to complain about Iranian coffee, the cafe's selection of non-instant varieties should settle your nerves.
Review by author
Andrew Burke