Long Read

Public Transportation Guide: How to Get Around Kermān Like a Local

@Sarah Bloom2/8/2026blog

so you wanna know how to get around kermān without looking like a lost tourist? good call. this place is a maze of dusty streets, hidden bazaars, and buses that seem to run on their own schedule. i'm not gonna lie-it's chaotic, but that's the charm. here's the messy, real deal on how to navigate this ancient city like someone who actually lives here.

The Basics: What You're Working With



first off, forget about ubers or lyfts. kermān doesn't roll that way. your main options are:

- *shared taxis (savari): these are everywhere. just yell your destination and hop in. it's cheap, but expect to share with strangers.
-
buses: they exist, but good luck figuring out the routes. locals just know. bring a map app and a lot of patience.
-
walking: surprisingly doable in the city center. just watch out for scooters zipping through pedestrian zones.

The Real Talk: Costs and Safety



kermān is one of the cheaper cities in iran. a savari ride costs around 10,000-20,000 rials (that's like 20-40 cents usd). buses are even cheaper-under 10,000 rials. rent? you can snag a decent place for $150-200 a month if you're staying long-term. safety-wise, kermān is chill. people are friendly, and crime is low. just don't wander into the desert alone-it's beautiful but unforgiving.

> "don't trust the bus schedules. they're more like suggestions." - overheard at a tea house

Pro Tips from a Local-ish Perspective



-
learn a few phrases: "be man kojayi?" (where is it to me?) will get you far.
-
carry cash: cards are rare outside big hotels.
-
dress modestly: it's respectful and avoids unwanted attention.
-
try the street food: sangak bread and berenj rice are worth the adventure.

Weather and Neighbors



kermān's weather is a wild ride. summers are scorching (think 40°c+), winters are mild but can get chilly at night. spring and fall are perfect for exploring. nearby cities like yazd and shiraz are just a short drive or flight away-perfect for weekend trips.

The Overheard Rumors



- "the 15 bus is cursed. it never comes." - frustrated commuter
- "there's a secret tea house behind the bazaar. no sign, just follow the smell of cardamom." - local artist
- "don't sit in the front of a savari unless you want to be the 'shotgun' negotiator." - seasoned expat

Data Table: Quick Facts About Kermān



CategoryDetail
Population~750,000
Average Rent (1-bed)$150-200/month
Bus Fare<10,000 rials
Savari Fare10,000-20,000 rials
Safety IndexLow crime, very safe

Final Thoughts



getting around kermān isn't about efficiency-it's about embracing the chaos. you'll get lost, you'll haggle, and you'll probably end up somewhere unexpected. but that's the beauty of it. just go with the flow, keep an open mind, and don't be afraid to ask for help. locals are proud of their city and happy to guide you-even if their directions are a little... creative.


Sources:*
- TripAdvisor: Kermān Travel Forum
- Yelp: Kermān Local Eats
- Reddit: Iran Travel Tips


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About the author: Sarah Bloom

Collecting ideas and sharing the best ones with you.

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