We just return from iran and i want to give some information
1. we get to iran from van (turkey) by train. long trip, late 2 hours with departure and 5 hours with arriving. half night pass contropls and customs, coach clean. anyway - not bad.
2. in tehran i asked to make for us reservation by www.uppersia.com. hotel SHAHR is really very nice and beautiful. it is historical building far away from center (20 min - 8USD) by taxi if traffic nice.
in tehran is very clever guide, perfect english-speaking Reza - 09177142602 ( This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ) he know town very good.
3. in esfahan there is ESFAHAN TRADITIONAL HOTEL. http://www.isfahanhotel.com/en/About.php. Beautiful, in good location. Naderian - women on reception speak good english. For reservation contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Check the cheapest Iran tours at http://www.uppersia.com/Iran-tours