A view of the Yazd skyline, minarets, wind towers, mosque domes and Shirkuh Mountains in the distance.

Rooftop sunset

Catch the last light of day surrounded by wind towers, mosques, and minarets.

Countless wind towers can be seen from roofs all around the city. Designed to cool the desert homes, the wind towers are like ancient air conditioners. – © Mohamed416 / Shutterstock

Surrounded by low-rise, earthen architecture, there is no better place to appreciate Yazd’s skyline than on a cafe rooftop. Sip on hot coffee or tea and watch the vibrant sky change colours over the Shirkuh Mountains.

The stunning changing of colours above the skyline © muratart / Shutterstock

Designed to maximise natural cooling effects, Yazd is covered with rooftop lounges. These spaces are ideal for the early morning or the sunset in the evening, when the crisp desert air is coolest. Whether it's a cafe, hotel, or restaurant there are countless options to choose from.

Enjoy a panoramic view of the old city including the beautifully lit Jameh Mosque in the distance. Count all the wind towers you see and appreciate the city’s revolutionary sustainable design. In particular, check out the Yazd Art House or Marco Polo Rooftop Restaurant to see why tourists rave about this experience.

Keep in mind, you will normally have to climb two or three flights of stairs to reach the rooftop. There are no elevators in the historic old town.