Turkey -> ??? -> Iran
 

Sorry if this question was asked before but I poked through the forums and couldn't find a great answer.

I'll be in Istanbul through April 20th and have booked a tour in Iran on May 10th.

I would like to spend the intervening time travelling around Syria/Lebanon/Jordan.

1. How easy is it to get from Istabul to this region via train? Or should I fly?

I was thinking I would take the train from Istabul->Beirut then make my way to Syria and then Jordan. I'm backpacking and don't mind uncomfortable long train, bus or car rides as long as they're on a budget.

2. What's the best way to get cheap airfare in this region, especially into Tehran? A lot of the common websites I know don't really deal in this region.

you will have better luck asking in the Lonely Planet Thorntree forums.

There just arent that many 'backpackers' here.

The cheapest flights would probably be on one of the low costs out of Dubai/Sharjah/Kuwait

check out Air Arabia and Jazeera Airways, for connections from the region.

alternativeairlines.com and terminala.co.uk search some unusual airlines, and you can buy Iran Air tickets there

Welcome to FlyerTalk hayesdaniel.

One thing I can comment on is the "train" situation. You cannot take a train from Istanbul to Beirut; no rail service in my country unfortunately. You can; however, take a train to Syria and then hop on a bus from there to Beirut.

I really have NO idea how to begin searching for something like that, so you have a bit of research to do.

As for budget airlines, there are a few that fly out of Beirut (via Gulf countries). Just not sure if all have services to Iran. Try flyDubai, Air Arabia and Jazeera.

Have a safe trip. Should you have any specific questions regarding Beirut, please feel free to get in touch.