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15 Best Places to Visit in Iraq

When you think of Iraq you may well think of smoky battlefields, cruise missiles, and charging tanks. Years of conflict have besieged this country, and while Iraq continues to struggle with political strife, there is much to see here other than just the scars of war. This country is one that is covered in natural beauty, such as the winding waterways of the mighty Tigris and Euphrates rivers. It is often known as the Cradle of Civilization and this is a reference to its ancient Mesopotamian cities that are famed for their innovations in science, writing, literature, medicine, theology and law.

This is also the old home of Babylonia which used to be the stomping ground of Alexander the Great. Mysterious towns like Ur mix with Ottoman relics and famous mosques along the borders and you will also find stunning canyons that carve out large crescents in the fertile plains of Iraqi Kurdistan.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Iraq :

The 7,000 year old citadel of Erbil has an illustrious history and can be compared to other greats like Cadiz and Byblos.

The massive castle in the center of the city is the great highlight here, and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Other places not to miss include the Erbil Civilization Museum and the Kurdish Textile Center which are a great way to find out all about the history and culture of this amazing part of the world.

Ur is known for its Biblical tales of epic floods and fearsome Babylonian kings, and is also known for one of the most beautiful ancient ruins in the region.

Located in the southern Iraqi deserts, Ur is the home of the Ziggurat, a tall structure with high walls and steep staircases that would have been used in the days of old to worship the Akkadian moon gods.

Certainly this is one of the oddest and most mysterious sights in Iraq.

It goes without saying that the city of Baghdad has suffered in recent times due to incessant bombing and attacks by insurgent groups.

To enter the Green Zone of the city you will need to get a special permit, but there is hope that one day soon people will be able to visit this city once more.

When they do, they will find copper bazaars, Assyrian treasures in the National Museum, and monuments such as the Unknown Soldier.

Many people know the name Basra as it was the location for one of the most pivotal battles that happened during the Iraq War.

If you scratch below the surface of this city, however, and you will find one of the most fascinating destinations in the entire country.

The area is covered in palm forests and the city sits on the Shatt al-Arab River which is lined by the sunny Corniche al-Basra where you can walk along and enjoy the cool evening breeze.

This is also the spot where you will find some of the most famous shrines of Islam’s first imams.

This town may not sound like much but it is actually the place where 30 million pilgrims make their way every year.

The area is sacred to Shiite Muslims because of the Imam Husayn Shrine which is the final resting place of the martyr Husayn ibn Ali who died in 680 AD during the Battle of Karbala.

It is also said to be the spot that the archangel Gabriel prescribed as one of the most sacred places on earth.

As such, every year this town sees thousands of devotees arrive for the Ashura Day of Atonement.

Sitting in the dusty deserts of western Iraq are the towering columns and ornate temples of Hatra.

As a result, this place is known as one of the most amazing archaeological sites in the entire country.

Here you will get to glimpse wonders of the Parthian age at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, although in recent years some of this area has been destroyed and it remains to be seen how much of Hatra is still intact.

7. Dur-Kurigalzu

The ancient abandoned ruins of Dur-Kurigalzu date back 3,500 years and this part of Iraq used to be the heart of the Cradle of Civilization of southern Mesopotamia.

Close to the mighty Euphrates and Tigris rivers, this was the home of the Kassite kings of old who built the Ziggurat in the 14th century.

This can still be found here in the form of striking stonework and mud-brick walls that rise into high towers above the desert and this would also have been used as a marker for camel caravans en route to Baghdad.

8. Sulaymaniyah

This is one of the most welcoming and relaxed cities in Iraq and is deemed safe to visit by some foreign governments.

Sulaymaniyah is located on the rugged mountains in northern Iraq and has a cool climate compared with many other cities in the country.

It also has a thriving arts scene and is famous for its wealth of delicious eateries where you can enjoy toothsome spiced kofta as well as biryani and an array of other delicacies.

If you want to take in the oases towns and valleys of the Goyija and Azmer ranges then this is also a great place to base yourself before venturing further afield.

The name Babylon conjured up images of ancient empires, hanging gardens, and epic battles between Alexander the Great and Persian kings.

It is fair to say that restoration and preservation have rather taken a back seat here in recent times, but you can still take in some of the majestic castles here as well as the vast remains of Homera.

As you explore Babylon, know that you are walking in the footsteps of great emperors of this part of the world, and you can marvel at artifacts such as gracefully crumbling lion statues and imagine how the Hanging Gardens of Babylon would once have looked.

10. Ctesiphon

In the middle of the 4th century BC, Ctesiphon was a small Persian settlement on the banks of the limpid Tigris River.

In the 1st century AD however it became the Parthian capital and grew to include the city of Seleucia.

This meant that Ctesiphon became one of the biggest cities in the region by the 7th century and this is where the Arch of Ctesiphon was built.

Also known as the Taq Kasra, this is a Sassanid dome that is one of the largest of its kind in the world and one of the most important archeological sites in the region.

Unfortunately the name Mosul has become synonymous with some of the worst destruction in Iraq to date.

For several years the town had been under the control of insurgents and it is now a battleground for the Iraqi military forces.

The hope is that Mosul will soon be liberated and that this city that has over 2,000 years of rich history will once again be a place that people can visit.

There are some truly amazing sights to be seen here including the crumbling ruins of the Umayyad Mosque that dates from 640 AD as well as the cobalt-blue marble work of the Yahya Abdul Kassem Mashad.

The Kurdish town of Dahuk sits in a small dusty valley in northern Iraq and is just a short bus journey from the Turkish border.

This means that this is one of the easiest places to visit in Iraq and perhaps for this reason it also has a reputation for being one of the friendliest and most welcoming.

The town has a wealth of cafes and teahouses and as this is the home of the University of Dahuk there is a strong university town atmosphere here.

There are babbling waterfalls located nearby as well as colorful Kurdish marketplaces where you can buy local products like spices and carpets.

Kirkuk straddles Iraqi Kurdistan and the rest of the country proper and is also famous for its rich oil supply.

This means that this part of Iraq has seen a lot of violence and turmoil, and some of its main sights are all things that allude to its tragic past.

These include its vast, smoldering oil fields located at Baba Gurgur, as well as ancient citadels which are now crumbling from neglect and the scars of prolonged battles.

14. Nineveh

This used to be the Biblical epicenter of the Assyrian Empire and was made famous by the prophet Jonah, making this an important spot in theological history.

Unfortunately much of this city has been ransacked over the years, but you will still find beautiful ruins such as Kuyunjik as well as some ancient gates of the city.

Zakho is a border town nestled close to Turkey and for this reason it has a clutch of good restaurants and hotels and is one of the most accessible places in Iraq.

It is also said to be the original spot where Christian missionaries first settled in the country and some of its highlights include the pretty Delal Bridge that stretches over the Little Khabur as well as the haunting ruins of Zakho Castle.

15 Best Places to Visit in Iraq:

• Dur-Kurigalzu
• Sulaymaniyah

Iraq Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Visit in 2024

Updated March 2024 , Iraq Travel Guide was originally published in January 2022

I first stepped foot in Iraq back in 2019, visiting the far north- only to spiral my curiosity into the country even further (the same thing happened to me in Afghanistan years ago, so I should have known better), bringing me back to travel Iraq yet again in 2021 (and spilling into 2022). So without too much carrying on, I’ve created a quick guide to traveling Iraq after traveling both independently and running a tour here, including everything you need to know to plan your visit in 2024.

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Going to Iraq and don’t have much time? Check out my 7 Day Iraq Itinerary for ideas

Iraq Travel Basics

Language:  Iraqi Arabic in Federal Iraq and Kurdish dialects (mainly Kurmanji and Sorani) in Iraqi Kurdistan. Note that English as a second language is popular in all of Iraq, so getting around without knowledge of Arabic is not too difficult. I’d recommend memorizing the Arabic numbers to make reading distances, times, license plates, etc. a little easier and learning a few keywords such as hello ‘ salaam ’, thank you ‘ shrukran ’ (Arabic) ‘ spos ’ (Kurdish), etc. 

Money:  The  Iraqi Dinar  is the official currency of Iraq and is currently ( February 2024 ) exchanging at  1,310 ID to $1 USD . You can easily exchange from dollars (Euro and GBP aren’t as popular with exchangers) to dinars at stalls and exchange shops in most cities. Many hotels will also offer exchange services (at a slightly less favorable rate) and larger purchases can usually be done in US dollars. 

Cash is still king in Iraq, so you will inevitably pay in cash for most things, however, in some more upscale hotels and restaurants you may be able to pay with a card (but don’t always count on it, it’s common for only one or two staff members knowing how to use the card machine or for it to be out of service). 

ATMs:  In general, ATMs in Iraqi Kurdistan are more reliable namely in Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, and Dohuk. In southern Iraq it’s a bit more likely that ATMs will be out of service, but it’s not impossible to withdraw money. That said, bringing cash to exchange is a smart idea. Worst case scenario Western Union and Moneygram are both available in Iraq). 

Only have a week to explore Iraq? Check out my 7 day Iraq itinerary and start planning

Iraqi Visas For Travelers

Note that there are actually two different visas for Iraq, the visa for Federal Iraq and an Iraqi Kurdistan visa. You can enter Iraqi Kurdistan with a Federal Iraq visa but you cannot enter Federal (south/Arab) Iraq on an Iraqi Kurdistan visa. 

Visa for Federal Iraq 

Starting in March 2021, it became possible for 38 nationalities to purchase an Iraqi visa on arrival ($77 USD) good for 60 days at Iraqi international airports in Baghdad, Basra, and Najaf. These nationalities include Australia, Canada, China, European Union (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden), Japan, New Zealand, Russia, South Korea, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and United States. 

Citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates are eligible for a visa on arrival free of charge at Baghdad, Basra, and Najaf airports. 

Those not on either list above will need to apply for a full on visa the old fashioned way- through an embassy. 

The Iraqi visa on arrival officially costs $75 USD, but at the visa window in the airport they will tell you $77. If you don’t have exact change they’ll gladly take your $80. This was my experience as I forgot to grab cash for the visa before leaving home and withdrew $80 from an ATM on a layover- though this is exactly what I expected to happen and was met with an ear to ear grin and a wink from the guy at the counter. 

In total, it took all of about five minutes to receive my Iraqi visa on arrival and go through the immigration window, but fair warning my flight to Baghdad was nearly empty (don’t be surprised if the guy at the immigration window is smoking a cig when he stamps you in, welcome to Iraq!). Most travelers report waiting 30 minutes to an hour for their visa on arrival so plan for it to take approximately that long. 

Note that  visa on arrival is now available on land borders! , they used to be only possible at international airports but are now possible to get on all of the land border crossings. 

Iraqi Kurdistan Visa

Citizens of Australia, Brazil, Canada, European Union, Iran, Japan, Kuwait, New Zealand, Qatar, South Korea, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and United States are eligible for a visa on arrival in Iraqi Kurdistan both by land border crossings and at the airports in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah. The visa is good for 30 days. 

A change from my initial visit in 2019 is that the  Iraqi Kurdistan visa on arrival now costs $75  (it was free back then). 

As mentioned earlier,  you cannot travel to Federal (South/Arab) Iraq on the Iraqi Kurdistan visa , legally anyway (there are reports of people sneaking past checkpoints successfully, but personally I wouldn’t want to deal with the hassle). You can, however, travel to Iraqi Kurdistan from Federal Iraq on an Iraqi visa. 

Plan your trip to Iraqi Kurdistan with this 10 day itinerary

Getting to Iraq

Iraqi airports .

The easiest way to enter Iraq is via one of the international airports. In Federal Iraq, you can enter at  Baghdad, Basra, and Najaf  Airports. In Kurdistan at  Erbil and Sulaymaniyah  Airports. 

Iraqi Land Borders

There are land border crossings with Turkey, Iran, Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait.

Read: The Iran-Iraq border crossing at Haji Omaran

Any travelers that may have first-hand experience crossing land borders with Kuwait, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Syria please leave a comment at the end of this article, I’d love to hear about it and add relevant information to this Iraq travel guide to help others. 

Traveling Iraq: Independent Travel or Organized Tour?

Both independent travel and organized tours of Iraq have their advantages. I have actually done both, having traveled on my own and leading a tour. 

Of course, the easiest way is to travel on an organized tour of Iraq. Your local guides will handle all the headaches like checkpoints, permits/permissions, hotel bookings, etc. If you are interested in joining a group tour check out the April Baghdad to Basra tour being offered through my local partners. 

Independent travelers will need to navigate checkpoints and everything on their own. It’s not the most difficult undertaking but you really have to ask yourself if this is something you want to deal with. If you have a lot of experience traveling independently, especially in the Middle East region, and aren’t on a time crunch then independent travel in Iraq can be quite rewarding. 

The Best Time to Travel in Iraq

Undoubtedly the fall and spring months of October, November, March, and April are the best time to travel in Iraq with comfortable temperatures for exploring. Kurdistan’s weather is a bit cooler, making September and May good months additionally too. 

The summer months are best avoided (June, July, August) due to scorching temperatures throughout the country. 

Winter can be a nice time to visit Iraq, but you can expect cool temperatures, especially in Iraqi Kurdistan. Pack a warm waterproof jacket too as rain is a bit more prevalent this time of year. 

Destinations in Iraq

I’ve listed the main destinations around Iraq that most travelers would visit and the main sites in each of them below. If I’ve written an in-depth mini-guide to an Iraqi destination you’ll find it linked below, and expect more to pop up here as I get caught up on all these blog posts in the coming months! 

Baghdad is the capital of Federal Iraq and its most populous city. Most likely, Baghdad will be your first stop in Iraq so get ready for a dizzying array of sites, smells, foods, and interactions. Also, be prepared for some of the worst traffic you’ll ever see (it takes forever to get anywhere unless it’s late-night or early morning). 

Read: 10 best things to do in Baghdad + Baghdad Travel Guide

Things to do in Baghdad

• Baghdad National Museum (best organized by a guide to get permissions to visit) 
• Al Shaheed (Martyr Monument)
• Al Khadimhiya (Yassin) Mosque
• Tahrir Square
• Mustanasiryah Madrasa
• Al Mutanabi Street 
• Shabandr Cafe
• Safafeer Copper Market

Best Hotels in Baghdad

• Shanasheel Palace
• Coral Baghdad Hotel
• Babylon Rotana

Samarra is most famous for its 9th century Grand Mosque of Samarra and 52 meter Malwiya Minaret that offers sweeping views over the city. Note that the Shia militant group Saryat as Salaam mans the checkpoint leading into Samarra and can lead to some hold-ups while crossing through- you’ll find more on the checkpoint later in the post.

• Malwiya Minaret & Great Mosque of Samarra 
• Al Askari Shrine

Hatra 

Hatra is famous for its iconic ruins but has been notably difficult to visit in the past. I didn’t get to Hatra myself, but others have- check out this post by Quit and Go Travel who visited Hatra along with Mosul .

• Hatra ruins 
• Officially Hatra is closed for foreigners, though people can and have gotten there. It may be easiest to arrange a visit with the help of a local guide 

To be totally honest, there’s not a whole lot to see in Kirkuk. Most who go to Kirkuk are just passing through between Baghdad and Erbil, though if you’re bound and determined you can take a shared taxi there and make Kirkuk a brief stopover between the two cities.

• Kirkuk Citadel
• Tomb of Daniel

Mosul was one of my favorite destinations I visited in Iraq actually. I found the city and its history quite fascinating and worthy of a spot on any Iraq itinerary.

Sadly, many people know Mosul because of the brutal attacks that gravely damaged much of the city at the hands of ISIS in 2014.

Read: Visiting Mosul on a day trip, Iraq’s destroyed city

• Mosque of the Prophet Yunus
• Ruined buildings of Old Mosul
• Mosul Souks
• Saddam’s Mosque
• Ancient Walls of Ninevah 
• Al Nuri Mosque
• Bash Tapia Castle

Ctesiphon is a famed ancient Persian city that was founded in the 2nd century and served as the winter capital of the Sassanian Empire. The building is impressively large, though much of the wall section has been more recently rebuilt. The grand arch Ctesiphon is most famous for is in danger of collapse and as of January 2022 had extensive scaffolding inside to prop it up.

The main attraction of Hillah is the ruins of ancient Babylon and Saddam’s Babylonian Palace that overlooked the ruins.

• Saddam’s Babylonian Palace

No Iraq itinerary would be complete without a visit to ancient Babylon. You’ll likely end up spending most of a day here taking in all the historic sites that would have made up the famed ancient capital.

• Ishtar Gate
• Labyrinth of Babylon
• Walls of Babylon
• Lion Statue

Karbala 

Karbala is one of Iraq’s holiest cities. The city is home to the Imam Hussein Shrine that millions of followers make a pilgrimage to each year for Arbaeen.

• Imam Hussein Shrine
• Imam Abbas Shrine

Best Hotels in Karbala

• Baron Hotel

Like Karbala, Najaf is another holy city for the Shia and no visit would be complete without at least a visit to the Imam Ali Mosque & Shrine and the Wadi as Salaam Cemetery.

• Imam Ali Mosque & Shrine
• Wadi as Salaam Cemetery 

Best Hotels in Najaf

• Aghnar Hotel

Kufa is a short taxi ride away from Najaf and is worth tacking on to your day in the holy city. Its main attraction of course is the Grand Mosque of Kufa.

• Grand Mosque of Kufa
• Al Saleh Mosque

Nasiriyah & Chibayesh

• Ziggurat of Ur
• Jumping off point for the Mesopotamian Marshes (Chibayesh)
• Cruise around in a mashuuf (traditional boat) in the marshes 
• Visit the Marshland reed houses

There isn’t a lot to do in Nasiriyah itself but it is a great jumping-off point for other adventures in the general vicinity but the Nasiriyah Museum and the Euphrates Riverfront are worth checking out.

Outside Nasiriyah, the Ziggurat of Ur is a must. It’s a well-maintained relic to the ancient city-state of Ur that would have ruled over the Mesopotamia region around 2200 BC.

The other attraction outside of Nasiriyah is the fascinating Mesopotamian Marshes. Personally, cruising the Mesopotamian Marshes by mashuuf (a traditional canoe-like boat) to see the traditional marshland reed houses were a highlight of traveling around Iraq for me.

Note that there is a checkpoint going into Nasiriyah that is notoriously difficult to get through. You do need to have a local contact in the city and possibly for them to come met you at the checkpoint (though in February 2022 I had seen posts of people stating that this is no longer the case). For updates from recent travelers and to find contacts in Nasiriyah, check out the Iraqi Travellers Cafe page on Facebook.

Best Hotels in Nasiriyah 

• Al Zaitoon Hotel

Basra is the southern port city of Iraq, situated close to both Iran and Kuwait. A river cruise on a small boat on the Shatt al Arab is a must in Basra, as well as wandering the streets of Old Basra (Shanasheel) and visiting the photogenic fish markets. The Basra Museum is supposed to be quite nice, but getting through the checkpoint at the gate can sometimes be a pain, they wouldn’t let us through when I visited Basra.

• Take a cruise on the Shatt al Arab
• Wander around Shanasheel (Old Basra)
• Visit the fish markets
• Basra Museum
• Imam Ali Mosque (Old Mosque of Basra)

Best Hotels in Basra

• Shams al Basra
• Horizon Hotel

Heading to Iraqi Kurdistan? Check out this quick Iraqi Kurdistan Travel Guide

Erbil is a quite modern city despite its long history. No visit to Erbil would be complete without a stop at the Erbil Citadel and Erbil Square. The meandering maze-like Qaysari Bazaar is another favorite spot of mine in the city too.

If beautiful architecture is what you’re after, don’t miss Jalil Khayyat Mosque. Of course, Shanider Park and Minaret Park are worth visits on a nice day.

• Erbil Citadel
• Erbil Square
• Qaysari Bazaar 
• Jalil Khayyat Mosque
• Shanidar Park
• Minaret Park

Read: Top things to do in Erbil

Best Hotels in Erbil

• Bella Roma Hotel
• Fareeq Hotel
• Divan Hotel

Read: Visiting the Yazidi holy site of Lalish

Lalish is a fascinating destination and one of my favorite places in all of Iraqi Kurdistan. Lalish serves at the holiest location for the Yazidi, an ethnoreligious group that practices Sharfadism (the Yazidi religion) which blends a number of aspects from Islam, Christianity, ancient Mesopotamian religions, Zoroastrianism, among others.

The Yazidi have been heavily persecuted historically with their most recent being in 2014 at the ISIS. Despite this, I found the Yazidi quite welcoming.

Visiting the Sheikh Abi Ibn Musafir Temple is an absolute must for those coming to Lalish.

• Temple of Sheikh Abi Ibn Musafir (note that to enter Lalish you need to be barefoot, so leave your socks and shoes in the car)

Alqosh 

Alqosh is home to the Chaldean Catholic Church’s holy site of Rabban Hormizd Monastery that clings impossibly to a beautiful mountainside. Similar to Lalish, Alqosh was brutally attacked by ISIS in 2014.

• Rabban Hormizd Monastery

Read: The Rabban Hormizd Monastery in Alqosh

Mar Mattai’s main attraction is its monastery.

• Mar Mattai Monastery 

Dohuk 

There’s not really much to see in terms of sites but is a good place to stay when exploring Amedi, Zakho, and other destinations in the far northwest of Iraqi Kurdistan.

Best Hotels in Dohuk

• Kristal Hotel

Amedi is an ancient Assyrian citadel that rises impossibly from a wide valley floor in the far north of Iraqi Kurdistan and was another of my favorite places I visited in Iraqi Kurdistan. It’s believed to have been home to the biblical three wise men.

I would recommend taking a hike opposite the citadel to get the best aerial views from a distance before going through the Bahdinian Gates and exploring the citadel itself.

• Go to the viewpoint opposite Amedi
• Bahdinian Gate
• Great Mosque of Amedi 
• Tomb of the Prophet Hazkial

Read: Visiting the ancient Assyrian Citadel of Amedi

Akre is a beautiful spot, the main thing to do is to the famous viewpoint for the past panorama of the picturesque town.

Rawanduz Canyon

Rawanduz Canyon is an outdoor lover’s paradise with a canyon to trek all over, waterfalls, and gorgeous nature.

• Hike along Rawanduz Canyon
• Trek to Bekhal Waterfall
• Visit Geli Ali Beg Waterfall

Halgurd-Sakran National Park

Halgurd-Sakran National Park is another outdoor junkie’s dream. There is an endless array of mountains to be hiked in, including a summit of Iraq’s highest peak, Mount Halgurd (permit required, but it’s free of charge).

Gomi Felaw overlooks Halgurd-Sakran National Park and was my favorite nature spot in all of Iraq with its dazzling little pond overlooking snow-capped mountain views. Gomi Felaw is accessible by heading off the famous Hamilton Highway as you near the Iranian border at Choman. 

Read: How to get to beautiful Gomi Felaw, Iraqi Kurdistan

Dore Canyon

Dore Canyon has been nicknamed ‘Iraq’s Horseshoe Bend’ and is yet another beautiful scenic spot in Iraqi Kurdistan. From the town of Barzan, it’s possible to follow a 4WD track or walk to Dore Canyon. 

Read: How to get to Dore Canyon

Dukan Lake is the largest lake in Iraq and is actually a reservoir. It’s a great place for a picnic and there are a scattering of restaurants near the lake too.

Sulaymaniyah 

Sulaymaniyah (also called Slemani or Suli) is a modern city and you’ll find a lot of university students here as many people come from all over Iraq to study here. There isn’t a lot in terms of things to do for tourists in Suli, but the Amna Suraka Museum and the Sulaymaniyah Archeological Museum are well worth a visit.

Suli is surrounded by mountains, some of which have roads leading up where it’s perfect to have a picnic or enjoy the sunset. There’s also the possibility of paragliding from the mountaintops.

• Amna Suraka Museum
• Sulaymaniyah Bazaar
• Sulaymaniyah Archeological Museum

Best Hotels in Sulaymaniyah 

• Dolphin Hostel
• Grand Millennium Suleimani

Halabja 

Halabja is a nice city break from nearby Suli. Halabja sadly suffered one of Saddam’s brutal chemical attacks that killed many of its residents.

• Halabja Museum
• Memorial Cemetery 

Getting Around in Iraq

Between Cities

For independent travelers, getting around Iraq is pretty straightforward with minibusses and shared taxis plying routes between most major cities. There’s also a train between Baghdad and Basra on certain nights. For those wanting ultimate freedom, it’s possible to rent cars in both Federal Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan. 

Small buses are a common way to get from city to city in Iraq. They can be a bit cramped but it’s a convenient and cheap way to get around. 

Shared Taxis 

You’ll find two different types of shared taxis between cities in Iraq, standard cars that hold up to four passengers and larger SUV (usually a GMC) that hold up to seven. Note that the front seat will cost a little more than a backseat. 

Shared Taxi Prices on Common Routes

Note that prices listed are one-way and are for regular shared taxis unless stated otherwise. You can expect prices to be a bit higher for GMC/SUV shared taxis and a little lower for a seat in a minibus. You can usually add 2,000-5,000 ID to the price (depending on the length of the ride) if you want the front seat. 

• Baghdad-Samarra:  15,000 ID (130 km)
• Baghdad – Hillah:  10,000 ID (115 km)
• Baghdad – Karbala:  10,000 ID (115 km)
• Hillah (Babylon) – Karbala:  2,000 ID (45 km)
• Karbala – Najaf:  8,000 ID (85 km)
• Hillah – Najaf:  7,500 ID (60 km)
• Najaf – Nasiriyah:  15,000 ID (250 km)
• Nasiriyah – Chibayesh (Marshes):  – 5,000 ID (90 km)
• Nasiriyah – Basra:  15,000 ID (195 km)
• Basra – Baghdad:  30,000 ID  (350 km) 
• Baghdad – Mosul:  25,000 ID (400 km)
• Baghdad – Erbil:  30,000 ID (365 km)
• Baghdad – Sulaymaniyah:  30,000 ID (340 km)
• Mosul – Erbil:  10,000 ID (90 km)
• Erbil – Sulaymaniyah:  15,000 ID (180 km)
• Erbil – Dohuk:  15,000 ID (160 km) 
• Sulaymaniyah – Halabja:  6,000 ID (80 km) 
• Erbil – Akre:  10,000 ID (95 km)

Looking for Shared Rides in Iraq? If you aren’t sure where to go to catch a shared taxi, SUV, or minibus, just ask for the name of the city you’re going + garage (ie: Karbala Garage). Garage is the word used in Iraq rather than bus station or taxi stand. 

On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights trains go between Baghdad and Basra, leaving around 7 pm and arriving around 6 am. Seats go for 10,000 ID and beds (inside a two-bed compartment) go for 40,000 ID.

Tickets must be bought at the train station, but I’ve read and been told conflicting information on when you can do so. Recently I have seen people saying that you need to go to the station at 7 am the day of departure to purchase your ticket, but I’ve also been told that you should go to the station a day or two before departure to purchase the ticket.

In order to book a ticket, you will need to go down to the train station with your passport and visa in order to book. One thing to note is that you can send someone to purchase the ticket for you. All they need is a copy of your passport and visa.

I didn’t take the train myself as I wasn’t going to be traveling on the right day when there was a departure.

Within Cities

Within the cities of Baghdad, Basra, Mosul, Najaf, and Erbil the Careem app is available, making getting from one place in the city to another a breeze. Of course, regular taxis are always available too but plan to haggle. 

Checkpoints in Iraq

You will inevitably cross through many checkpoints on your travels in Iraq. In general, they’re pretty straightforward, though some are a bigger pain in the ass than others. 

Checkpoints can be found as you enter pretty much every city and along roads between them. Typically they will just flick through your passport to look at your ID page and for your Iraqi visa and sometimes the officers will even chat with you or ask for a photo. Some checkpoints they may not even stop to check at all (I found this to be the case a lot for me, but mostly on the account that I can pass as Arab I was told). 

Checkpoints are mostly manned by the Iraqi police or military in South/Arab Iraq and by Peshmerga in Iraqi Kurdistan. Though you will find some checkpoints are controlled by armed militia groups. 

Checkpoints with a reputation for being more difficult or require some more checking include Samarra, Nasiriyah, Mosul, and between Iraq-Iraqi Kurdistan, all of which I’ve included some info about below. 

Samarra Checkpoint

The armed Shia militia group Saryat as Salaam mans the checkpoint to Samarra and they are very suspicious of foreigners. Even those on a guided group tour can expect a bit of a hold-up at the Samarra checkpoint. Just be patient. 

If visiting independently, it would be wise to find some local Iraqis to accompany you on your day trip to Samarra to make getting through the checkpoint easier and without wasting hours waiting to get through. 

Nasiriyah Checkpoint

Nasiriyah is home to the high-security al Hoot prison where many dangerous ISIS fighters are held (you will drive past the prison on your way to the Ziggurat of Ur). Because of this the Nasiriyah checkpoint usually takes a little while. Technically you need to have a sponsor in Nasiriyah (ask in Iraqi Travelers Cafe and you will easily find one) with a phone number you can give to the guards at the checkpoint. 

Recently (February 2022), I’ve seen a couple of posts in Iraqi Travellers Cafe saying that they went through the Nasiriyah Checkpoint with a local contact and that it is no longer a requirement to cross through. I am not certain that this is an actual change to the rules or if the officers were being lax or whatever. Either way, I would still have a contact lined up just in case you end up needing them.

Mosul Checkpoint

Officially you need a sponsor (similar to visiting Nasiriyah) in Mosul in order to cross through the checkpoint independently, but you may be able to cross through eventually. Mosul is a sensitive destination due to the devastating attacks on the city at the hands of ISIS in 2014. 

My friend Brett and I ended up opting to hire a driver from Mosul to do a day trip into the city from Erbil. There were three checkpoints (one-way). I was never checked, Brett’s passport was at each of them. 

Of course, if you are visiting as a day trip like we did, or as part of an organized trip, your guide or driver will help facilitate this if there is any scrutiny. 

Iraq-Iraqi Kurdistan Checkpoint

Crossing between the two Iraqs is straightforward but you do have to deal with being registered at the main checkpoint outside of Kirkuk. Local Iraqis have to register too, so all cars plying the route will stop here. 

This requires you to go inside the building and show your passport at window #1. After, walk through to the far side of the building and go to window #2 where your passport will be scanned and you will be registered. If you appear at all confused you can almost certainly expect some friendly Iraqi locals to point you in the correct direction, I also found that the drivers tend to help tell you were to go- whether you have any shared language abilities or not. 

Once this is complete you can go back out to your vehicle. As you leave the area you will cross a checkpoint where your passports will be checked again, but once out of this you’re officially crossed into Iraqi Kurdistan. 

Getting an Iraqi SIM Card

Getting an Iraqi SIM Card is easiest done at the airport on arrival, with Asiacell and Zain Iraq being the most popular mobile providers, Korek being another popular one mostly in Iraqi Kurdistan. You will need your passport and visa in order to purchase one. 

You can pop into one of the mobile provider’s offices once you are in Iraq too. 

What to Wear in Iraq

What to wear in Iraq obviously has more concerns for women than for men, but know that it’s not quite as conservative here as you might assume. Since the dudes can wear pretty much the same things they’d wear at home (though I’d advise against shorts and tanks/singlets) I’m going to focus this section on the ladies. 

As a general rule for what to wear in Iraq, women will be most comfortable erring on the more modest side. Looser-fitting tunic-style tops or full-length dresses are good choices, but with that said, it’s not super uncommon to see girls and women out in jeans and t-shirts. 

Always keep a scarf handy to cover your hair for certain sites and for the really holy sites you can pick up an all-enveloping abaya/chador for around 5,000-10,000 ID that can be found for sale outside. 

Places to note include Karbala, which is a holy city requiring women to be fully covered in an abaya/chador to even enter the city itself. Najaf and Kufa are also holy cities but not quite as strict as Karbala- though the main reason for visiting them is to visit holy shrines and mosques so you may as well just pop the chador on for the entirety of your visit in both. 

Safety in Iraq

I’ll split this section into two, separating safety in Federal Iraq from that in Iraqi Kurdistan. 

Safety in Federal Iraq

Iraq has a reputation for being among the most dangerous countries in the world but more recently the security situation in the country has greatly improved. That said, there still are risks nonetheless, as the country has seen decades of strife from the Iran-Iraq war of the 1980s, the wrath of Saddam Hussein’s rule, the 2003 US Invasion, and the rise of the Islamic State. 

It would be wise to do some research previous to your visit and keep an eye out on current events as your trip to Iraq nears- for this, the Iraq Travelers Cafe Facebook page can be a great resource. 

From my personal experience, I felt quite safe in my travels in Iraq and faced few issues, but realize that the situation in Iraq could change at any moment. 

It’s also a bit easy to forget the fragile state Iraq is in even as you travel around as a tourist. For example, on my most recent visit, there was a rocket attack on Baghdad’s Green Zone just before I was departing the country (though I was far from the action at the time at least). 

For those more concerned about their safety while traveling Iraq, I would definitely recommend joining a group tour or organizing a private trip with a local guide/company where these details are handled and mitigated by a local team. 

Safety in Iraqi Kurdistan

Iraqi Kurdistan, in terms of security, is a different world from Federal Iraq. I’ve found Iraqi Kurdistan to be incredibly safe on both my visits. Of course, the usual precautions apply but in general Iraqi Kurdistan is a breeze to travel around whether joining a group or solo backpacking your way across the region. 

Read: Solo female travel in Iraqi Kurdistan

Have Any Questions About Traveling in Iraq?

Ask in the comments section below. 

More Posts from Iraq:

Erbil Travel Guide + 7 Things To Do In Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistan

Visiting The Ancient Assyrian City Of Amedi, Iraqi Kurdistan

The 10 Best Things to do in Baghdad, the Capital of Iraq

Iran-Iraq Border Crossing Report At Tamarchin/Haji Omaran

Rabban Hormizd Monastery in Alqosh

Visiting Dore Canyon Near Barzan, Iraqi Kurdistan

Solo Female Travel In Iraqi Kurdistan

A Quick Guide To Iraqi Kurdistan Travel

Soaring Mountains & Alpine Lakes In Gomi Felaw, Iraqi Kurdistan

Visiting The Yazidi Holy Site Of Lalish, Iraqi Kurdistan

Visiting the Malwiya Tower & Grand Mosque in Samarra, Iraq

The Best Road Trips In The World

A Day Trip to Mosul, Visiting Iraq’s Destroyed City

10 Day Iraqi Kurdistan Itinerary

One Week Iraq Itinerary

Iraq Tour: April 2022

10 Off The Beaten Path Destinations For 2021

5 thoughts on “iraq travel guide: everything you need to know to visit in 2024”.

Crossing land border from Iran to Iraq at Shalamcheh / Al Shalamshah is possible. Visa on arrival is available there too. We crossed by vehicle registered in Germany. They can deal with all of the formalities.

Hi, the VOA is available at land borders, just FYI. I came into Iraq via the land border at Safwan (for Basrah) a few days ago, and paid the same $77.

Awesome, thanks for the update- great news! Also got your email as well

Hi, Loved your Posts, Planning to Visit Iraq, How did you book your Hotels/ Hostels? Booking . com works there?

Thanks! Yes, some were booked using booking.com and some we just showed up or called to ask if they had rooms availble.

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Torn between its glorious past and its recent bloody history, Iraq is a country in turmoil. Just as the place was beginning to recover from the 2003 US-led invasion and its aftermath, jihadist group Isis took control of large swathes of the country's north in 2014. The tide may have turned back in favour of the Iraqi government with the recapture of Mosul and other cities in 2017, but most of Iraq remains extremely dangerous.

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Table of Contents

Iraq is a fascinating country located in Western Asia . Touristically speaking, Iraq lost its place in the world tourism arena.

For a long time forgotten, Iraq is now a mysterious country since we don’t hear people speaking about traveling there that often (due to the lack of security).

Before the unilateral American incursion of its territory, Iraq was safe and had thousands of western tourists visiting it every year.

Because Iraq is located in the heart of Mesopotamia, where humans established the first great civilizations.

This said, Iraq is a natural born historical nation. Present in the early birth of modern civilizations, places like Samarra, Ur, Hatra and famous Babylon still ring the bell when mentioned.

Unfortunately today, due to the presence of radical militant Islamic groups that took advantage of the political and security void, Iraq is a no-go destination for the most of its north and center territories.

Instagramming from Iraq

View this post on Instagram A post shared by NOMAD REVELATIONS🐪TRAVEL BLOG (@joaoleitaoviagens)

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office of the United Kingdom Government advises against all travel to:

• Anbar province
• Ninewah province
• Salah-Al-Din province
• Diyala province
• Tam’mim (Kirkuk) province
• in Erbil province, south of Road 80, and within 10km of the border with Ninewah province between Road 80 and Road 2

This means that, apart from these hard core dangerous areas, Iraq can still be visited, although the FCO advises here against all but essential travel to the rest of Iraq.

ATTENTION : Middle-east is very unstable and you should know that travelling to this region is not 100% safe. This blog just shares travel information, and by this, I mean that I am not responsible for any misinformation or anything that can happen to you. Be conscientious and travel safe and sound. Visit the Iraq Travel Warning page by the U.S. Department of State.

Travel to Iraq – important

Visiting Iraq is difficult because it’s not a safe destination. Yet, it’s full of very friendly, proud and hospitable people.

On this page, I make a list of 24 amazing places in Iraq which are undoubtedly the country’s major tourist attractions. Iraq has much more than this to see, but this is just a list of locations that we can visit and that are not off limits to westerners.

Three regions in Iraq are somehow safe for the adventurous travelers

• Iraqi Kurdistan – controlled by the Kurd government headed by President Masoud Barzani. The capital city is Erbil.
• Baghdad – the capital city of the Republic of Iraq controlled by the Iraqi government headed by President Fuad Masum.
• Southern Iraq – controlled by the Iraqi government and other shia armed militias. The most important cities are Karbala, Najaf and Basra. These shia militias are currently protecting and sheltering thousands of Christian and Yazidi refuges that run away from the northern part of the country.

Amazing Places to Visit in Iraq

Al Kifl is a city located in the south-east of Iraq, on the banks of the Euphrates River, between Najaf and Al Hillah. Al Kifl’s importance is due to be the location of the Bible prophet Ezekiel’s tomb.

This place was once a major tourist attraction with thousands of visitors. Inside the walls, this shrine has a dome with Hebrew inscriptions mixed with floral Islamic designs.

Before the war, Iraq had the second largest Jewish community in the Middle East (the first being Israel and the third being Iran ).

Yearly, thousands of Jews used to visit this place during Easter. Nowadays, with the lack of security, this is not possible anymore as most Iraqi Jews left the country.

Photo gallery of Al Kifl

2- Al Mada’in

Al Mada’in is an ancient settlement with noticeable regional importance. Here passed the Sasanian, Rashidun, Umayyad, Abbasid and Buyid Empires. It is said that it was the Iranians who built the city and was later rebuilt by King Zab, Alexander the Great and King Shapur II.

In recent history, Al Mada’in is the location of the pilgrimage site of Salman al-Muhammadi’s Tomb. Since this is a Shia shrine inside a majority Sunni town, Al Mada’in has a very strong army presence.

Also known as Salman the Persian, he was the companion of Muhammad (the central figure of Islam) and Ali (the cousin and son-in-law of Muhammad).

Inside the mosque, one can also visit the tomb of Hudhaifa al-Yamani and the grave of Jabir Abdullah al-Ansari.

A few kms south of Al Mada’in we can visit the archaeological site of Taq Kasra (the only remaining structure of the ancient city of Ctesiphon).

3- Al Qurnah

Al Qurnah is a small town located in south Iraq. This is the confluence of the Tigris and the Euphrates River. You can easily visit the exact place where the rivers meet.

The ancient Adam’s tree inside the public garden is said to be Bible’s Tree of Knowledge. Some say that Qurnah is the actual location of the Garden of Eden. It seems Abraham himself was there 4,000 years ago acknowledging the importance of this tree.

This city is also known for being the scene of the Battle of Qurna. During the First World War, the British invaded this territory in order to defeat the Ottoman troops.

4- Al Ukhaidir

The Fortress of Al-Ukhaidir, also known as the Abbasid Palace of Ukhaider, is located about an hour drive from Karbala.

This rectangular shape fortress, erected in the year 775 BC, was used by the Abbasid caliph As-Saffah with the purpose of defending his territory.

Amadiya is a city built on top of an inhospitable rocky mountain, 1500 meters above sea level.

Once upon a time, the only accessible entrance was via a staircase carved on the rock itself.

The various points of interest to visit are the tombs of the Kings, the panoramic view from the top of the mosque, the Market Street, the fabulous Badinan Gate, Sulav springs and Kani village.

Aqrah was the most spectacular place of my trip to Iraqi Kurdistan . Aqrah name means “sterile”, since the land is not suitable for agriculture purposes. Aqrah consists of houses built on the hillside, a mosque with a prominent minaret, the mountain Zarvia Dji and two waterfalls.

Barzan is a town located in Erbil province along the Great Zab river. Barzan is the birthplace of Sheikh Ahmed Barzani and Mustafa Barzani. They are the famous Kurdish leaders from the family in power in Iraqi Kurdistan.

In Barzan we can visit the Centre for Kurdish Studies, the Kurdish Independence Museum and the martyrs cemetery.

Babylon was an important city in ancient Mesopotamia.

Situated on the banks of the Euphrates River, this archaeological site is one of the highlights when you visit Iraq.

Babylon was one of the largest cities in the world during the sixth century BC. German archaeologist Robert Koldewey unveiled the buried monuments, contributing to one of the greatest archaeology discoveries of all time.

Instagramming from Babylon

This city was a massive urban center in former times composed of Ancient walls, temples and the Etemenanki ziggurat dedicated to Marduk, which inspired the Tower of Babel and the Hanging Gardens. Unforgivable not to visit Babylon once in a lifetime.

Near Babylon, we can also visit the inside of Saddam Hussein’s Summer Palace.

Instagraming from Babylon

Baghdad is the capital of Iraq and its cultural-political center. With its 6 million people, Baghdad is considered to be one of the most dangerous cities in the world.

The current difficult political situation due to many years of war and sectarian problems caused by extremist Islamic militant groups makes this city witness suicide attacks almost daily.

At a touristic level, the city faces serious difficulties due to the extreme police control and military presence.

If you’re courageous enough to visit Baghdad, you can go to the Museum of Baghdad, the Al-Faw Palace (Water Palace), the famous Firdos Square and the Swords of Qadisiyah aka the Victory Arch.

Instagramming from Baghdad

Other nice places are the Al-Shaheed monument, the National Museum of Iraq, the famous book market in Mutanabbi Street, Umm al-Qura Mosque, the Ottoman Castle, the Cathedral, the Khan Murjan caravanserai, the al Rashid Street market, the Tahrir Square and the al-Kadhimiya shrine.

Basra is one of the largest cities in Iraq, and where its most important port is located.

Set on the banks of the River Chatt al-Arab in the south of Iraq, Basra is about five hours drive from the capital, Baghdad.

It is one of the most relevant cities in relation to oil production, contributing to much of the country’s economy.

11- Borsippa

Borsippa was a prominent city in Sumer (the first civilization in the world) which was erected on the banks of the Euphrates River.

It is believed that the ziggurat was erected in honor to the local god called Nabu – the son of Marduk of Babylon. The city is of extreme cultural importance in the historical region of southern Mesopotamia.

12- Ctesiphon

Ctesiphon began to gain local relevance around the second century BC. It was one of the great cities of Mesopotamia and the capital of the Arsacid and Sassanid Empire for almost 1,000 years.

Instagramming from Ctesiphon

This city is mentioned in the Old Testament (the first section of the Christian Bible) and in the Book of Ezra (a book of the Hebrew Bible that describes the restoration of Jerusalem after the Babylonian Jewish exile). Ctesiphon is located along the Tigris River near Al-Mada’in.

Dohuk is located in northern Iraq along the Tigris River. Most of its population are Kurds and Assyrian Christians. The landscape surrounding the city is quite mountainous and beautiful.

Erbil is the capital city of Iraqi Kurdistan Region, which is located 4 hours drive north of Baghdad. Erbil it is one of the oldest cities in the world. Its first settlement dates back 7,000 years.

Erbil Citadel is on the list of UNESCO as a World Heritage site, because it is among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the history of mankind.

There are some adventure tours available with Erbil and Mosul on a 4-Day Northern Iraq Tour .

15- Euphrates river

The Euphrates River is the longest and the most famous river in the Middle East historically speaking. The Euphrates, along with the Tigris, form the largest river basin in southwest Asia.

The Euphrates crosses cities such as Ar-Raqqah, Ramadi, Fallujah, Kufa and Nasiriyah. The old city of Babylon was built upon the left and right banks of the Euphrates.

16- Karbala

Karbala is a well known city where the famous Battle of Karbala took place in 680 AD. It is one of the holiest cities for Shiite people after Mecca, Medina and Najaf. The reason of this importance is the fact that Imam Husayn Shrine and his half-brother al-Abbas ibn Ali are located in the city center.

17- Khanzad

Khanzad Castle is located on the way to Shaqlawa, north of Erbil Province. The recently restored ancient castle dates back a few centuries ago to the Kurdish emirate in the Soran period.

This city reveals great importance to Shiite Muslims, since along with Samarra, Karbala, Kadhimiya and Najaf, they all had the presence of the great masters of Shia Islam. It was in Kufa that the Arab vertical Kufic writing was created and developed. Dating back to the seventh century, the Great Mosque of Kufa is considered one of the oldest in Iraq.

19- Mar Odiso Monastery

Mar Odisu is a holy place for Assyrian Christians (Chaldeans), where people do their religious rituals with special sacred spring water. Located in Iraqi Kurdistan, this Christian religious complex is located between Amadiya and Barzan.

20- Mesopotamian Marshes

The Mesopotamian Marshes are considered to be Western Eurasia’s largest wetlands ecosystems. This unusual place in the desert had plenty of water, so it used to be very productive and prosperous.

Instagramming from the marshlands

The people who live in Iraq’s southern marshes are known as Ma’dān – or simple as – Arabs of the Marshlands. These people build incredible floating houses made of reeds harvested in their own marshes, transported in canoes and small boats.

Read my page :

Mesopotamian Marshes

Najaf is considered to be one of the holiest Muslim cities in the world. It also holds the Shiite political center of the country.

Instagramming from Najaf

The tomb of Ali ibn Abi Talib’s – the first Imam of the Shiites (Shias) – is the most important site in Najaf. Being the holiest site of Shia Islam, after Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia, Najaf receives millions of pilgrims annually.

The largest and the oldest cemetery in the world, Wadi-us-Salaam is worth a visit for its incredible size, since it has more than 5 million tombs.

Sulav is a small village in Iraqi Kurdistan. Quite hilly, the surrounding mountain landscapes are breathtaking.

Locals gather here in the afternoon to enjoy the river cafés and to smoke hookah (argilah) with flavored tobacco. Sulav is located near Amadiya.

23- Ziggurat of Ur

The Neo-Sumerian ziggurat in the old city of Ur near Nasiriyah is an amazing historical site.

This place was an important commercial hub back in 3800 BC. Located in a strategic region between the Tigris and the Euphrates River, Ur was the perfect connection to the Persian Gulf.

Abraham, the first of the three patriarchs of Judaism, was born in Ur. His house is located north of the ziggurat and can be visited.

24- Zab river

The Great Zab river runs in eastern Turkey and northwestern Iraq. It rises near Van lake and flows into the Tigris River south of Mosul.

NOTE : I’ve been to Iraq three times. The first time back in 2010, the second time at the beginning of 2016, and the third time just recently in 2018 traveling for one month driving my campervan. Throughout recent years, Iraq has become safer, and there are many areas that can be visited without any issues. If you think you’d like to make such a trip, check RJ Travel available Iraq Tour Packages .

Read my page:

Kurdistan Region of Iraq Unknown Destinations Part 1

8 Things To Do in Iraq [Best Places to Visit in Iraq]

If you’ve ever taken up Asian or even World History in school, you will remember how they said the earliest civilization emerged from the confines of Mesopotamia, part of what is now known as modern Iraq. Thousands of years ago, the Sumerians, Akkadians, Assyrians, and Babylonians occupied this large mass of land within the Tigris-Euphrates river system and started what has since been the framework of our current civilizations.

In recent years, Iraq has been a constant on the news due to all the obstacles the country faced– from the rule of Saddam Hussein to the recent ISIS attacks that terrorized the country. This has made some serious impact on the country and even more, to the citizens themselves.

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Now, with the country slowly getting back on its feet again, people are also starting to gain interest in coming over. Its doors have been opened to tourists who are wanting to know more about what’s more to Iraq than what the media portrays.

In this article, you’ll find out about some of the most exciting things one must experience when in Iraq.

Table of Contents

Key Cities in Iraq

Baghdad – This city is the country’s capital and its largest city as well. Baghdad goes way back in history, being mentioned in documents as old as the Assyrian cuneiforms from 9th century BC. It was founded in the 8th century and has since been the country’s commercial and cultural center due to its excellent location.

Nowadays, Baghdad is a modern metropolis and is home to many museums, schools, and other major offices and establishments in the country.

Basra – This city lies near the border Iraq is sharing with Kuwait along the Shatt Al-Arab River and is serving as the country’s main port. Like most of the country, it also goes way back to 636 as a former encampment for Arab tribesmen. 

These days, the city’s largely depends on its oil industry as its main source of income. It also is a major agricultural region in the country which produces maize, rice, millet wheat, dates, and livestock.

Hillah – Another agricultural land which produces a wide range of fruits, crops and textile, this city in the central region of Iraq was chosen as the country’s cultural capital in 2008. It’s also an important archeological site due to its proximity to the ancient ruins of Babylon, Kish ruins and Alberes.

Erbil – The center of Iraq’s autonomous Kurdistan region, Erbil is the 4th largest city in all of Iraq. It is also known as one of the oldest continually inhabited sites of human civilization and is one of the safest places to visit in all of Iraq these days.

What You Should Do When in Iraq

1. explore all the places you’ve read about in the bible.

You’ll be surprised to know that some places mentioned in the Bible are all conveniently placed in one country, Iraq. First off, it is believed to be the location of the Garden of Eden as well as the city of Ur which is where Abraham and eventually, his lineage originated. There’s also the ruins of Babylon still standing in the southwest of Baghdad.

Despite all the looting, bombing, and other tragic events the place has gone through, parts of the ancient kingdom can still be found up to this day. The Tower of Babel is also believed to be located in Iraq and was said to be based on the Etemenanki which is a ziggurat dedicated to Marduk, a Mesopotamian god.

2. Visit historic mosques

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Seyed Amirhashem.dehghani (@amirhashem.dehghanii) on Mar 27, 2020 at 1:25pm PDT

As a country with a history dating back to thousands of years, it also has its fair share of mosques that are important to our Islam brothers and sisters. The Imam Ali Mosque of Narjaf, for example, is known to be house the tomb of Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin of the prophet Muhammad. It is also believed that buried next to Imam Ali are the remains of Adam and Noah or Nuh.

Another one of the holiest shrines for Shi’ite Muslims is the Imam Husayn Shrine in Karbala, Iraq. This is believed to be the final resting place of the remains of Imam Husayn, the grandson of Muhammad and the third Imam of Islam. Both sites welcome tons of visitors each year due to their significance in the Shi’ite Muslim belief.

3. Learn more about the origins of our civilizations

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Osama Sarm | أسامة صارم (@osamaex) on Jan 24, 2020 at 8:50am PST

Of course, as the birthplace of modern human civilization, Iraq has its fair share of artifacts dating back to the Mesopotamian era which you’ll find in the Iraqi Museum in Baghdad. The war may have affected it negatively when it was looted during the Invasion of Iraq in 2003, but with the constant effort of the Baghdad Museum Project, it was later reconstructed and opened to the public in 2015. In there, you’ll still find thousands of artifacts from back in the day like statues, ancient masks, and other important pieces of our past that will surely teach you more about the origins of the modern people.

4. Pay a visit to the Martyr Monument

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Shahd Al Jumaily شهد الجُميلي (@shahdaljumaily) on Dec 1, 2019 at 2:19am PST

The Martyr Monument or Al-Shaheed Monument was designed by Iraqi sculptor Ismail Fatah Al Turk in memory of those who fought and lost their lives during the Iran-Iraq War. Established in 1983, this huge architectural structure stands in the middle of an artificial lake. Below is a library, a museum and other facilities that you can visit to know more about the Iraqi soldiers who fought and lost their lives during the 8-year war.

5. See a blood-penned Quran for yourself

Do you have a penchant for something out of the ordinary? You probably do, and this might be interesting for you. As a way of displaying his utmost devotion to Islam after a failed attempt on his son’s life, former dictator Saddam Hussein had a copy of the holy book of Quran written in perfect calligraphy using a very unusual ink– his blood. He had about 27 liters of his blood extracted from him to be used by the artist to write about 600 pages of the holy document.

It was formerly displayed in Saddam’s “Mother of All Battles” Mosque, but in recent times, the government decided to lock it in a basement and behind vaulted doors. It’s not easy to see it for yourself now, but who knows? You might get your chance one day.

6. Have a relaxing day in the mountains

If you ever decide to pay a visit to Kurdistan, you might want to drop by Mount Korek to have a relaxing time. A resort named Korek Mountain Resort & Spa sits atop the mountain and can be accessed through a cable car. Isn’t that cool? Enjoy activities like skiing, sky gliding, riding a nautic jet and shooting paintballs in this exciting resort. There are also over a hundred villas where you can spend the night.

7. Get in touch with nature

This isn’t a well-known fact about the country, but in recent years, Iraq has been trying to diversify its tourism industry by trying to boost its ecotourism department. The marshlands located between the Euphrates and Tigris rivers have been the cradle of some beautiful wildlife and scenery found in the country. However, during the time of Hussein, he drained these marshes as a way of punishing its inhabitants by going against him.

Nowadays, you can now enjoy these waters by boat and visit the man-made islands once again where beautiful houses made from reeds can be found.

8. Find Venice in Iraq

Basra, the port of Iraq, is also the home to what is known as the “Venice of the East”– canals lined up by houses built in the 19th century. Visit the Old City of Basra and you’ll find some of the most awesome architecture there probably is in the country. You can also take a stroll on the island near the Shatt Al-Arab hotel and enjoy some relaxing time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Iraq 

1. Do I need a tourist visa to visit Iraq?

Yes, citizens from all countries are required to apply for a visa to go to Iraq.

2. How long is a tourist visa in Iraq valid for?

A single-entry tourist visa is valid for 3 months from the date it was issued while a multiple-visa is valid for 6 months.

3. How do I apply for a tourist visa to Iraq?

It’s advisable to apply for a tourist visa through a tour operator as technically, you can only apply for a visa on your own if you will be in a group of 5 or more tourists wanting to go to Iraq together.

4. Can I travel to Iraq on my own?

No. You are required by the government to have a guide and a driver with you at all times while you are in their territory. This is also one of the reasons why joining a tour in Iraq is your safest bet.

The tour operator will not only help you get a tourist visa but would also make getting permission to go to different places outside Baghdad (required by the government) easier.

5. Is it safe to travel to Iraq?

According to the stories of people who had been in Iraq recently, the country’s relatively safe and they didn’t feel threatened through the whole duration of their stay. This is despite warnings of various government agencies all around the world about traveling to the country.

Of course, before you go, it’s best to check your country’s travel advisory and the recent news first so you know what’s in store for you when you visit Iraq.

6. Can I go to Iraq from Kurdistan and vice versa?

Yes, you definitely can. However, keep in mind that your Iraqi visa will not be a valid document to enter Kurdistan and vice versa. This is because separate bodies are governing these two so naturally, even their laws are different.

You can go on a Kurdistan-Iraq trip but only if you’ll be crossing the border through the air. Crossing the Kurdistan-Iraq border are not allowed at this time.

7. Will I be able to connect to the internet when in Iraq? Can I use my phone?

Of course! There are places with free Wi-Fi connections scattered all over the country with a pretty decent connection so you’ll have no problem surfing the web during your downtime.

Local telecoms also offer SIM cards that visitors can use while in the country. It’s also loaded with a certain amount of data if you ever need to use the internet and is outside a Wi-Fi zone.

8. Can I use my credit card in Iraq?

Unfortunately, only a few establishments accept credit cards at the time so you’re the best option will be to carry some cash with you.

Exchanging your local currency can be done within the airport or at exchange counters in the city.

9. Do they speak English in Iraq?

Because some Iraqis have the experience of living outside of their home country during the war, you’ll find a number of them speaking a foreign language like French, German and even a little bit of English.

If you do need to have something explained to them, though, you’ll need the assistance of a guide.

10. What laws and customs should I observe when in Iraq?

As Iraq is a predominantly Muslim country, you must respect their local traditions, laws, and customs at all times.

When dressing up, make sure to be modest at all times. It’s unacceptable for women to wear sleeveless and see-through clothing while men are only expected to wear shorts for exercising.

When sitting cross-legged, avoid placing your foot or shoe in the direction of someone’s face as it’s considered rude. The same goes for when you’re pointing at something and you do it with a single finger. Always use your whole hand or even both hands for emphasis if you want to point at something.

If you decide on taking pictures while going around, make sure that you never take photos of their soldiers, government establishments and inside some of the holy shrines in a few places around the country. If you want to take a photo of someone or something, always double-check so you don’t get into trouble.

This is something that you should keep in mind before going to Iraq, but having an Israeli stamp on your passport is a no-no and will not grant you access to the country. Make sure that you don’t have one by avoiding crossing borders Jordan and Egypt share with Israel to make sure.

11. When is the best time to visit Iraq?

Iraq is best experienced during the spring and autumn seasons when climates aren’t too hot and too cold.

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Top Things to Do in Iraq

Places to visit in iraq, explore popular experiences, popular cities in iraq.

Top Attractions in Iraq

What travellers are saying

VOICE OF GUIDES

The most interesting and beautiful places to visit in iraq (+iraq travel itineraries).

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our  disclaimer  here.

Iraq just opened for tourists and is still an undiscovered place. Iraqi Kurdistan has been deemed safe for longer, but federal Iraq’s tourism is still in its infancy. Iraq is probably not the first destination to think about as a place to travel to, even when the Middle East is already on your mind. However, the hospitality of the Iraqi people can make it one of your most rewarding trips, where you can still feel like a discoverer. Having traveled extensively in Iraq for over six weeks, I made this list of the best things to do in Iraq, the most interesting or beautiful places to visit, and recommended itineraries.  

Independent travel is possible in Iraq, but there are some things you must know to avoid inconveniences. Therefore, before you continue reading, I recommend checking out my post about “All you need to know before traveling to Iraq (weather, safety, money, transport, insurance, how to get around, etc.) .  

THE BEST TRAVEL ITINERARIES TO IRAQ AND IRAQI KURDISTAN

The following Itineraries include the best and most interesting places to visit in Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan. It means you can only complete it if you have an Iraqi visa, i.e., you arrive in Baghdad and not Erbil! (In Erbil, you get a visa that is only valid in Iraqi Kurdistan).

If you come during Nowruz in March, include Akre in your Iraqi Kurdistan travel itinerary. And if you come during the Yezidi New year in April, check the specific day of celebrations in Lalish.  

The ideal Baghdad sightseeing depends on the hotel’s location, but opening hours are limited; most monuments close from 1 pm – 2 pm.

Read my article about all you need to know before traveling to Iraq. 

10 days Iraq travel itinerary

Day 1, 2 baghdad, tak qasra.

Day 1: Tahrir Square, al-Rasheed Street, Old Al- Mustansiriya School, Abbasid Palace, Baghdad souk, drive through the green zone, walk through al-Mutanabbi street in the evening

Day 2: Iraq national museum, Martyr’s monument, Taq Qasra

2 nights in Baghdad

Day 3: Ziggurat of Ur, Najaf

Head from Baghdad to the ziggurat of Ur and then to Najaf, where you visit the Imam Ali shrine at night. 

1 night in Najaf

Day 4: Najaf and Karbala

Visit Kufa and the Wadi Al-Salam cemetery in Najaf and drive to the shrine of Imam Hussein in Karbala.  

1 night in Karbala

Day 5: Babylon/Hillah, Baghdad

Head back to Baghdad and visit Babylon and Saddam’s palace on the way

1 night in Baghdad

Day 6: Samarra (Malwiya minaret and Al-Askari mosque), Hatra

2 nights in Mosul

Day 8: Mosul, Mar Mattai monastery

Half-day in Mosul and visit the Mar Mattai monastery.

Day 9: Lalish, Amedi, Dore canyon

1 night in Erbil

Day 10: Erbil

Visit Erbil and take your flight back home .

2 weeks Iraq travel itinerary

Day 1, 2, 3:   baghdad  .

You will probably arrive at night in Baghdad. So head to the hotel to have a couple of hours of rest.

Visit the following places in 3 days:

Day 1: Tahrir square, al-Rasheed Street, Old Al- Mustansiriya School, Abbasid Palace, Baghdad souk, drive through the green zone, walk through al-Mutanabbi street in the evening

Day 2: Al Kadminiya mosque, Taq Qasra

Visit the Al Kadminiya mosque, and the rest of the day drive to Taq Kasra outside Baghdad (one of the biggest brick arches in the world) 

Day 3: Firdos square, Abu Nawas boulevard photo stop at the statue of Scheherazade, Mausoleum of Abdul-Qadir Gilani, Martyr’s monument, Iraqi museum, Save the Iraqi Culture monument, boat trip on the Tigris River

4 nights in Baghdad

Day 4: Babylon/Hillah, Karbala

Visit the Babylon site, Saddam’s former palace, and continue to Karbala. In Karbala, visit the shrine of Imam Hussein in lights in the evening.

1 night in Kerbala

Day 5:   Karbala, Ukhaidir fortress, Najaf

Visit the shrine of Imam Hussein in the morning, then drive to the Ukhaidir fortress (50km) and, after that, to Najaf, the shrine of Imam Ali. Visit the shrine at night with lights.

Day 6: Najaf, Kufa, Nasiriyah

 Visit the shrine of Imam Ali also in the morning, walk in the nearby bazaar, and enter the biggest cemetery in the world (Wadi Al-Salam). Only 15 minutes from Najaf is Kufa, another Shiite holy place with the shrines of Shiite Imams and the house of Ali. Drive to Nasiriyah.

1 night in Nasiriyah

Day 7: Ur, Mesopotamian Marshes

Visit the ziggurat of Ur, and have a boat trip at the Iraqi Marshes, then drive back to Baghdad (3 and a half hours) 

Day 8: Samarra (Malwiya minaret and Al-Askari mosque)

Visit one of the landmarks of Iraq, the Malwiya minaret and Al-Askari mosque, one of the most important Shiite holy sites in the world. Then continue to Mosul, and on the way, visit the ruins of Hatra.

3 nights in Mosul

Day 9: Mosul

Day 10: mar mattai and rabban hormizd monasteries, lalish, day 11: amedi, deralok dam, dore canyon.

Leave Iraq and go to Iraqi Kurdistan.

3 nights in Erbil

Day 12: Sulaymaniyah, Halabja

Leave Mosul for Sulaymaniyah, one of the important cities of Iraqi Kurdistan, the Halabja memorial, and drive to Erbil. 

Day 13: Rawanduz and Soran

Drive to the most spectacular scenery of Iraqi Kurdistan with Rawanduz canyon, Soran, and waterfalls (Geli Ali Beg and Bekhal) with photo stops.

Day 14: Erbil

visit Erbil and take flight at night 

Insurance:   Safetywing  is a cheap travel and medical insurance that also covers COVID-related issues in most countries, including Iraq.

Flights: Use Google Flights or Skyscanner to book your flight to get the best flight offers.

3 weeks Iraq travel itinerary

Day 1, 2, 3, 4:   baghdad  .

You will probably arrive at night in Baghdad. So head to the hotel to have a couple of hours’ rest.

Visit the following places in 4 days:

Important: The ideal Baghdad sightseeing depends on the location of the hotel, but opening hours are limited, most monuments close at 1 pm – 2 pm, so you have to be flexible as your plans can change. 

Day 4: Umm al Qura mosque, Amiriya shelter, Christian churches, hang out in Karrada.

5 nights in Baghdad

Day 5: Babylon/Hillah, Al-Kifl

Visit the site of Babylon and Saddam’s former palace and al-Kifl, the tomb of Prophet Ezekiel.

1 night in Hillah

Day 6:   Karbala, Ukhaidir fortress

Drive from Hillah to Karbala and visit the shrine of Imam Hussein in the morning, then drive to the Ukhaidir fortress (50km). Visit the shrine at night with lights as well.

Day 7: Najaf, Kufa, Nasiriyah

Head to Najaf with the biggest cemetery in the world (Wadi Al-Salam) and the shrine of Imam Ali. Only 15 minutes from Najaf is Kufa, another Shiite holy place with the shrines of Shiite Imams and the house of Ali. 

Day 8: Ur, Uruk, Mesopotamian Marshes

Visit the archeological site of Uruk and the ziggurat of Ur and drive to sleep in Chibayish (Nasiriyah), the center of the Marshes.

Go to the Iraqi Marshes and have a boat trip, and drive back to Baghdad (3 and a half hours) 

1 night in Chibayish in a traditional mudhif or proper hotels are available in Nasiriyah

Day 9: Mesopotamian Marshes, Qurna, Basra 

Have a boat trip in the Iraqi Marshes and continue to Qurnah, the place of the Biblical Eden and where the Euphrates and Tigris rivers join. Continue to the southernmost port city, Basra.

2 nights in Basra

Day 10: Basra

Day 11: drive back to baghdad and nippur.

Drive back to Baghdad and visit Nippur archeological site on the way.

Day 12: Agargouf ziggurat, Fallujah, Ramadi

Day 13: samarra (malwiya minaret and al-askari mosque), tikrit.

Visit one of the landmarks of Iraq, the Malwiya minaret and Al-Askari mosque, one of the most important Shiite holy sites in the world. Then continue to Mosul, and on the way, visit Tikrit with the memorial of the Speicher massacre and the former palaces of Saddam.

Day 14: Mosul

Day 15: hatra and mar mattai monastery, day 16: amedi, delaruk dam, dore canyon (barzan).

Leave Federal Iraq and continue to Iraqi Kurdistan.

2 nights in Erbil

Day 17: Rawanduz, Soran, Gali Ali Beg and Bekhal waterfalls

Day 18: sulaymaniyah, halabja.

1 night in Sulaymaniyah

Day 19: Erbil

Visit Erbil

Day 20: Lalish and Rabban Hormizd monastery

Day 21: erbil.

Fly back home

THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN FEDERAL IRAQ

Baghdad, the capital, is one of the highlights of your visit to Iraq. Few cities have an atmosphere that conserved the past in a way as Baghdad did. Worn-down colonial buildings, war memorials, the Tigris riverbank, and a range of trendy restaurants and traditional cafes make it probably the most interesting place in Iraq. You need at least three days (if planned carefully) to discover the capital’s main tourist attractions and taste some Iraqi specialties like kebab or Mazgouf (fish).

Read this ultimate guide about the best places to visit in Baghdad in 3-4 days

2. Agargouf – ziggurat

The most famous ziggurat in Iraq is the one in Ur. It is also in the best state after renovations. However, only half an hour’s drive from Baghdad, you can get to the remains of another one that was part of the former capital of the Kassite Empire, dating back to the 2nd millennium BC. A Kassite king of Babylon, Kurigalzu I, built the zikkurat of Agargouf dedicated to the principal Babylonian God, Enlil, who had power over wind, air, earth, and storm. Kassites controlled Babylonia after the fall of the Old Babylonian Empire for 400 years.

Zikkurats were sacred places in the center of ancient Mesopotamian cities built in terraced structures from mud bricks. On top of them stood the temple dedicated to the chief god that only priests could enter. The people of the land of two rivers (Tigris and Euphrates) were pious and prayed to the gods for good harvest, fortune and wealth. Chogha Zanbil is the best-preserved ziggurat and one of the few located outside Mesopotamia, in today’s Iran.

Where to sleep?

There is a range of budget and more expensive hotels inside the sacred area or nearby.

9. Ukhaidir fortress, Al-Tar caves, al Qusayr, Imam Ali dropper Shrine ( قطارة الامام علي ع)

Ukhaidir fortress.

Once in Karbala, do not forget to visit the Ukhaidir fortress, a great example of the Arab military architecture of 29 000m2 with 48 towers surrounding the wall. The fort stands in the desert near the main road. A big iwan in the central part is surrounded by reception halls for guests and ceremonies, and it also includes the living quarter of servants and guards. Despite excavations and investigations, there is no information about its exact date of construction. Some say it dates to the pre-Islamic period. Even those who say it was built after Islam do not agree on whether during the Umayyad or the Abbasid period.  

The story of Ur ended temporarily when the Elamites dethroned the last King of Ur at the end of the 3rd millennium BC. Ur was later rebuilt and incorporated into the Kingdom of Babylon. It served as a religious center and the capital for governors.

Excavations started in the 1930s, during which tens of thousands of cuneiforms were found in temples, palaces, and people’s houses, proving the complex legal system of the city-state. 

Saddam Hussein ordered the renovation of the monumental staircase and lowest levels. Apart from the ziggurat, the royal palace and mausoleum of Ur-Nammu are also part of the archeological complex. The precious items found in the tombs were imported from other parts of Asia and indicated the significance of Ur.

The buildings of Ur were constructed from mudbrick, and mud was used as plaster.

King Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylon continued work on Ur, and the last Babylonian King, Nabonidus, increased the height of the ziggurat by 7 meters.

After the Persian conquest, Ur lost its former importance, and by the 4th century, it was almost completely forgotten.

How to go there? Ur is located 16 km from Nasiriya. The only way to get there is with private car

15. The Mesopotamian Marshes – one of the best things to do in Iraq

The Marshlands had been the cradle for human civilization 5,000 years before. In the Mesopotamian Marshes, the local Madan tribes also called the Marsh Arabs, constructed their houses out of reed. They descended from the Ur, Sumer, and Babylon civilizations and created a unique culture. The indigenous tribes raised water buffalo, planted rice, and fished when water was still abundant in fish.

Their attractive long house called mudhif has been used for communal gatherings and to welcome guests. It is the symbol of this geographically and culturally unique area. They stabilize the mudhif by bundling the reed into thick columns that span over like arches to make the building’s spine.

Inside the house, brocaded cushions are placed on two sides to sit on, and the tale-like Iraqi teapots are placed in the middle to offer tea or coffee to the guests.

Iraqi Kurdistan, a haven for refugees

During the Syrian Civil War, tens of thousands of Syrian refugees, many of them Syrian Kurds, flocked to Kurdistan. 

The warm hospitality is part of Kurdish tradition (not less that of Iraq) and their men are famous for being fierce warriors. They also claim that Saladin, who conquered Jerusalem when it was at the hand of the Crusaders, was also originally Kurdish. A Kurd never calls this part of Iraq northern Iraq, but Iraqi Kurdistan, which means “the place of the Kurds.”

When ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) moved over to Iraq, the Kurdish Peshmergas (militant force of Iraqi Kurdistan) bravely fought against the jihadists and won the world’s attention and support. Christians, Yezidis and Shias were killed or driven out of their home and escaped in masses to the Kurdish mountains. Even other Iraqis from Fallujah, Ramadi, Baghdad and Mosul left temporarily their home and moved to Erbil. The “people without a friend,” as Kurds were often called, provided a haven to all refugees. 

Iraqi Kurdistan is a mountain region in sharp contrast with the rest of Iraq, surrounded by the Zagros and Taurus mountains carved by winding rivers deep in canyons. Some say it takes these mountains to make a Kurd. 

Kurds believed they were the descendants of ancient Medes, which gave them pride and identity. 

Transport in Iraqi Kurdistan

Shared taxis are much less available than in Federal Iraq, so you must arrange your transportation with private cars.    

Safety in Iraqi Kurdistan

Unlike Baghdad, Iraqi Kurdistan has enjoyed much safety since 2005. Thanks to its stability, renowned online and print magazines (New York Times, National Geographic Traveler and Conde Nast) named it a must-see travel destination. 

23. Rabban Hormizd monastery and Alqosh

Alqosh is a small town 45 km north of Mosul that has always been a religious center for Sumerian, Assyrian gods, or Judaism. Later, its inhabitants were the first ones to convert to Christianism, and it still has an important Chaldean Catholic Assyrian community. Christian minority is now on the verge of extinction in the land where they had been present since the earliest times of Christianism. There were 1.3 – 1.5 million Christians in Iraq before the US invasion in 2003. It reduced to 500,000 before ISIS began its genocidal campaign. Today they amount to 150 000. During the last five years, Christians of Iraq left the country in masses.

by Agnes Simigh

I’m a passionate tour guide and travel writer, who is curious to discover places that seldom catch the attention of the media or that are misrepresented. My goal is to inspire you to choose off-the-beaten-track destinations by sharing objective and detailed information. I believe that it is mainly the lack of “intel” that keeps us away from incredible places. And that just shouldn’t be the case.

Other articles about Iraq

COMPLETE TRAVEL GUIDE TO VISIT BABYLON/HILLAH IN IRAQ

VISITING LALISH, THE YEZIDI HOLY SITE IN IRAQI KURDISTAN

ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE TO MOSUL, IRAQ

THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE ABOUT THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN BAGHDAD IN 3-4 DAYS

A TRAVEL GUIDE TO VISIT BASRA IN IRAQ

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING IRAQ

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The Best Iraq Travel Itinerary for 2024 (Map included)

This post may contain affiliate links. This just means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you for helping them promote their product or service. I don’t endorse any services I don’t personally use or recommend.

Iraq is not a country that requires a month-long stay. With the southern 3/4s of the country covered in barren flat desert your time in “federal” Iraq or the non-Kurdish region can be accomplished rather quickly. We decided, albeit a little ambitiously, to traverse the entire country (including Iraqi Kurdistan) in a little over 2 weeks. Unfortunately, that left little room for weather deviation, food poisoning, or just general exhaustion— but it can be done. If you’re short on time but want to experience the very best Iraq has to offer, here’s my 2-week Iraq travel guide complete with add-ons for travelers with more time. 

Obviously, the more time you have the better…but I know a lot of you are working with a two-week vacation time window. So I’m here to help.

Your Complete Iraq Travel Itinerary

If you’re planning on visiting all of Iraq in one visit, you should stay for no less than 2 weeks. This Iraq travel itinerary will assume you have 2 weeks (maybe more) in Iraq. If you have less consider sticking to either Federal Iraq or Iraqi Kurdistan. Not both.

Before you dig into this Iraq itinerary be sure to browse my other guides covering budget travel in Iraq, everything you need to know before you go, + tips for staying safe as a solo woman.

Is Iraq Safe? Tips From an American Woman Traveling Iraq

Is Iraq safe? For Americans? For solo women? Well, honestly, it’s a little complicated.…

Everything You NEED to Know Before Visiting Iraq (+ Iraq Travel Tips)

Iraq can give even full-time travelers/travel experts a run for their money. These are…

Overview of Our Iraq Itinerary

• Baghdad – 3 Days
• Samarra – 1 Day
• Karbala + Babylon – 1 Day
• Basra – 1 Day
• Iraqi Marshes – 1 Day
• Najaf – 1 Day
• Mosul – 1 Day
• Iraqi Kurdistan – 5 to 6 Days

Iraq Travel Itinerary Map

I’ve gone ahead and created a map for you all with my favorite Iraq sights, hotels, and eats.

For the Kurdistan attractions (outside of Erbil) check out my Iraqi Kurdistan Road Trip map .

Baghdad (Day 1 + 2)

If you’re planning on visiting Federal Iraq as an American or European this is where you’ll want to fly for visa purposes. 

 Baghdad reminds me a lot of Cairo . Dusty, polluted, filled with crowded outdoor street markets, and studded with colorful domed mosques. It’s not a particularly good walking city so you’ll have to rely on taxis to get around. My favorite days in Baghdad were spent sipping sweet Iraqi tea in cafes surrounded by shisha smoking men & wandering random street markets. Also, be sure to try both the Raisin & Apricot juice.  

What to see in Baghdad

It’s good to have a few things in mind that you want to see. But Baghdad is best when you just pop into mosques and markets. 

Martyrs Monument or Al-Shaheed Monument

These dramatic blue bell-shaped structures are great for iconic Iraq photos. The entrance fee is 3k IQD or $2 per person. It’s a little outside of town so I recommend getting a Careem.

Al Rashid Street, Al Mutanabi Street or Book Street , Abu Nawas Street

These are the three main walking streets. Al- Mutanabi is by far the most interesting. Known as “Book Street” it really comes alive at night as all the vendors display their wares.

“Cairo Writes, Beirut Prints, but Baghdad Reads”

Haji Zbala Juice Shop.  

They have been serving fresh made juice for well over 100 years. The grape is the staple (or raisin). But sour apricot is also great.

Shebandar Cafe.  

This cafe is special. At first, it looks just like the rest of the tea shops in Baghdad. But the tea here is great + it’s been around for generations. The owner actually lost all 3 sons and 2 grandsons in a car bombing during the war.

Darbunah Restaurant.

If you’re looking for high-quality traditional Iraqi food…this is it. It’s a little on the higher end of the food spectrum but that does not mean small portions. If you walk here be prepared to show your passport at various street checkpoints.

Al-Kadhimiyah Mosque, Ramadan Mosque, Mustansiriya Madrasa

The mosques in Baghdad are incredible. In all of Iraq really. Explore any + all that you can.

Copper Market

A love a good market. The copper market holds far more than simply copper. This market is your traditional Middle Eastern market filled with spices, housewares, food, and yes, hand-made copper goods.

Where to Stay in Baghdad: Royal Garden Hotel 

60,000 IQD or $41 for a double suite. Tell them you’re a member of Iraqi Travelers Cafe to get this discounted price. Breakfast is included. There are some cheaper places to stay in Baghdad on the outskirts of town but since you’ll have to deal with taxis and finding your own breakfast (not super easy in Iraq) I recommend splurging on this one instead. 

WhatsApp Number: +964 751 155 8090 (Shaima)

Another Cheaper Option: Kwestaan Hotel

This was recommended by a friend and fellow traveler. It should cost only 35,000 IQD for two people.

All hotels in Iraq are super expensive online. Don’t bother booking anything ahead of time either. You can arrange things via WhatsApp or just show up for a room.

Budget Travel Tip:  Getting to/from Iraq is expensive. Pegasus is a low-cost Turkish airline that flies from Istanbul & Ankara to Iraq for super cheap. Consider combining your Iraq visit with a long stay in Istanbul to enjoy its incredible cafes. Check out my blog post filled with more Iraq budget traveler tips! 

Add on Samarra (Day 3)

If you hate Baghdad (some people do) and are ready to leave after a single day or you have an extra day in Iraq you can visit the ancient city of Samarra and climb the spiraling minaret on a day trip. It takes about 2 hours one-way via minibus or shared taxi. Entrance tickets are about $17 pp. 

Karbala + Babylon (Day 4) 

Karbala. The holiest city for Shia/sunny Muslims in all of Iraq. You 100% cannot miss visiting the two shrines of Karbala. There are two holy cities in Iraq (Karbala + Najaf) & if you’re short on time and can only choose one…Karbala is the way to go.

Babylon is only a 40-minute bus ride from Karbala so the two destinations can easily be combined in a single day. Be sure to visit Saddams Palace while you’re in Babylon. It’s only a short taxi ride from the main gate.

For this Iraq travel itinerary, I recommend…

You leave early from your Baghdad hotel + head to the South Garage. Garage Allawi. From there, get on a bus to Hillah. This is the closest station to Babylon. From here, you’ll get a taxi to Ancient Babylon. It should cost you around $6. The main office or one of the guards at Ishtar Gate can watch your bags for an hour or two while you explore the city. Then take another taxi back to the Hillah Bus station (to Karbala). Grab a minibus to Karbala for $1.50 per person.

UPDATE: I’ve been told by a fellow traveler that while on the bus to Hillah you can inform the driver that you plan to go to Babylon and they will drop you off at a slightly closer point than Hillah station. You’ll still need to grab a taxi to the gate but it will be cheaper.

You could also take a minibus straight from Baghdad to Karbala, drop off your stuff at your hotel, & then head to Babylon and back to Karbala all in one day with no problem. 

What to see in Karbala: 

Imam hussein’s shrine + holy shrine of al abbas.

It’s best to visit these attractions late at night when they are fully lit. That’s what really makes them incredibly impressive. They are both open 24/7 and will be filled with other visitors at all times of the day. We went at 10 PM. But you could go as late as 3 AM if you’re inclined.

If you’re visiting during Ramadan, Eid, or another Muslim holiday Karbala is going to be packed. Book your accommodation way in advance. 

Eat fatty coconut sweets + fresh juice.

All around the area of the shrines are dessert shops. Find the busiest one and try a few things. Desserts are a big deal in Iraq (all of the Middle East really) + you should sample all kinds of things you don’t recognize.

Where to stay: Jennet Al- Kawther

This place is a great budget option and should be $20 or less for a couple.

WhatsApp Number: +964 783 419 3970

Or Burg Karbala. This place is a good backup if it’s a holiday and everywhere else is full. Or if you are looking for something a little fancier. Due to its close proximity to the shrine, you must wear an abaya at all times if you’re a woman.

Women Visiting Karbala?  To enter the shrine as a woman you’ll need to be dressed in a full abaya, not just a headscarf. You also can’t wear makeup, can’t bring in makeup (chapstick included), no nail polish, must wear socks, & must enter from the female inspection entrance. No cameras, bags, or phone power banks are allowed inside. Being a woman traveling independently in Iraq can be complicated. Read my whole blog post on tips for female travelers to Iraq for more information. 

Add Najaf (Day 5) 

If you have extra time catch a bus to the other holy city of Iraq. In a single day, you can visit the incredible shrine, the world’s largest cemetery (the second largest is in Peru ), & get a good feel for the small town. 

Where to Stay: Hotel Al-Maqam

I did not stay overnight in Najaf. But this place was recommended to me by many other travelers as a solid budget-friendly option.

I’ve been told that Najaf + Kufa are both excellent places to visit (specifically the mosque in Kufa) so be sure to fit them into your itinerary if you can!

Mesopotamian Marshes (Day 6) 

This is without a doubt the most unique & soon-to-be-famous attraction in all of Iraq. A must for your Iraq travel itinerary. If you visit Federal Iraq you must make it all the way south to the marshes. 

Depending on how long you want to stay, visiting can be a little bit complicated, however. You essentially have two options. 

Option 1: Day Trip w/ 1 Night stay in Nasiriyah 

Nasiriyah isn’t much in itself but it’s the closest town with lodging to the marshes. From here you can arrange a marsh tour with a street vendor or with Bilweekend (a company we used & highly recommend). A day visit should run about $30 for two and last 4-5 hours. 

Option 2: Overnight stay in the Marshes. 

This is the route we chose + have no regrets. Instead of staying in Nasiriyah, we arranged to go straight to the marshes with Bilweekend. You’ll get a sunset cruise, dinner, campfire, breakfast, & a morning tour of the marshes. Bilweekend is a well-known name in Iraq travel and they are super well-connected so expect to pay more than from other vendors. But I think the experience is worth it.  I’ve been told that other vendors will take you into the marshes overnight for around $75 for two.

Should you stay overnight in the marshes? This is not for everyone. The marshes are remote, swampy, & you’ll have primitive sleeping conditions at best. I detailed the entire experience in another blog post you can read here to help you decide if this is your kind of adventure. 

If you prefer to contact them via WhatsApp instead of Instagram… Bilweekend WhatsApp: +964 790 431 0853

Add Ziggurat of Ur

If you find yourself with a little extra time in Nasiriyah hire a taxi out to the Ziggurat of Ur! This massive structure is 4,500 years old and you can climb atop it for panoramic views. You only need an hour at the site itself. 

2024 Update: You can no longer walk on top of the Ziggurat! This is likely due to increased tourism in Iraq and in an attempt to preserve the life of the Ziggurat for centuries to come.

You could also have seen this sight on your way to the marshes if you took a private taxi or guide.

Why you *should* consider a tour of Federal Iraq.  Many of these ancient sites (like Samarra or the Ziggurat of Ur) are far from modern cities which makes getting to them without the help of a tour complicated & expensive. Companies like Bilweekend can also ensure you get through all the necessary military checkpoints & get you access to places other tourists CAN’T go (like the famously destroyed mosque of Al-Nuri in Mosul). I rarely recommend tours but in Iraq’s case…the benefits are high and the relative cost increase is reasonable.  

Add Basra (Day 7) 

We skipped Basra so I don’t have a lot to say about things to do in the port city. Basra has loads of fish markets, a unique seafaring vibe, & is home to the only functional train in Iraq. It only runs certain days of the week (weekends I believe) & connects with Baghdad. This is a good option to get back to the city before entering Kurdistan if the dates line up for you. 

Baghdad (Day 8) 

Otherwise, it’s too much travel time for one day.

Whether you are coming from Basra or from Nasiriyah as we did, you have a 6+ hour journey ahead of you to get to Baghdad. I recommend spending the night here before you continue on to Mosul tomorrow. It’s another long stretch.

Mosul (Day 9) 

Your last stop in Federal Iraq and perhaps the most infamous city in the country. From 2014 to 2017 the town was under ISIS’s control. From your first glance of the West side of the city, the destruction is apparent. Mosul is rebuilding quickly but this side of the river is absolutely decimated. Mosques, homes, and roadways lay in mountains of rubble. Bullet holes and bomb craters riddle every visible structure. Many buildings are just hollowed-out shells. But Mosul is undergoing a revival. Thanks to UNESCO, US, & UAE funds, historic buildings like the famous Al-Nuri mosque in Mosul are being restored. 

Mosul is an important piece of the Iraq picture & an absolute must-visit on any Iraq travel itinerary. 

You should also walk through the Old Market and the areas around the Al-Nuri mosque to get a look at the remains of Mosul’s Old City. 

Where to Stay: Alsfer Hotel

$15 for a two-person room. And it’s on the West side of the city which is infinitely more interesting.

Bilweekend Tour. We visited on a tour with Bilweekend and were granted access to the Al-Nuri Mosque, Syrian Catholic Church, and inside buildings still being cleared of land mines and explosives. I highly recommend at the very least, hiring a guide to get a little perspective on the horrors the people of Mosul endured for 3 years under the reign of ISIS. 

Getting to Mosul

There is public transport that runs regularly from Baghdad. No checkpoints and it only takes about 4 hours.

Erbil (Day 10 + 11) 

Welcome to Kurdistan. Although still technically a piece of Iraq this region could not be more different. For starters, it’s mountainous. Erbil is a lively little circular city with a massive central bazaar + park to wander, good food, and my favorite mosque in the Kurdistan region. 

Road trip!! Iraqi Kurdistan is also one of the easiest, safest, & most spectacular road trip destinations in the Middle East. Think snow-covered mountain peaks, green hillsides dotted with wildflowers, winding cattle-filled roads, and countless scenic overlooks. The landscape here could not be more different from the deserts of federal Iraq. We did a 4-day road trip in Kurdistan & laid out everything you need to know in this separate blog post. 

Where to Stay: Lord City Hotel 

40,000 IQD or $27 for a double room. All the rooms here have squat toilets instead of European. They also have huge windows overlooking the main bazaar and park fountains. Parking here is horrendous but the location couldn’t be better for those traveling on foot.

What to See + Eat in Erbil

Citadel castle, grand bazaar, + main square.

This is the main tourist plaza. The market here is filled with worry beads, turquoise rings, and all kinds of other unique goods. The Citadel Castle is especially good for sunset.

Fancy Coffee Shop, Tea Shops, + The BEST Breakfast Place in Iraq

Unfortunately, you can’t locate these exact places on google maps. But I estimated on the map I provided for you. Walk the perimeter of the main bazaar and you’ll find lots of coffee and tea shops, world-class shawarma + falafel, tasty soft-serve (get the pistachio kind), and lots of street food.

My favorite place is an outdoor alleyway breakfast spot. It has the best tea in town + you can order eggs with soft fresh bread. Super cheap and very authentic. I put the rough location on the map I provided.

Hummus + Fuul (Syrian Cuisine)

If I had to pick one meal to re-eat from Iraq…it would be this one. Unfortunately, it’s super far outside of town. But it’s worth a cab ride. We ate there before returning our car rental after our Kurdistan road trip.

Jalil Khayat Mosque

Foreigners are only allowed inside the mosque from 9-11 AM. Come prepared with an abaya or headdress. It’s just as impressive inside as it is outside.

Tamdar Restaurant (Kurdish Cuisine)

Finding traditional Kurdish food done well is difficult. This place does it. Be warned it’s kinda expensive but the portions are large enough to share.

Iraqi Kurdistan Road Trip (Days 12-15)

Now scoot on over to my Iraqi Kurdistan Road Trip Itinerary for your last 4 days in Iraq.

If you are against renting a car or don’t have a license, continue reading. These next stops can all be reached via public transport. Or hitchhike if you’re feeling adventurous! It’s very common in Kurdistan.

Akre (Alternative Day 12) 

Perched on a mountainside Akre is both accessible by public transport and perfectly picturesque. As far as “attractions” go there are none specifically worth noting but these are my favorite viewpoints & overlooks to walk to in the city. Visiting here also gives you the opportunity to enjoy the Kurdish countryside & if you’re feeling up to it— go on a hike. 

Why Akre instead of Amedi?  Amedi is a photo-worthy town sitting on the top of a lone mesa. The only problem is without a car you won’t be able to easily get the dramatic sweeping views this town is known for. If you’re relying on public transit or hitchhiking (perfectly safe in Kurdistan) I would recommend visiting Akre instead. 

Sulaymaniyah (Alternative Day 13 + 14)

The most blasphemous thing we did on our Iraq trip was to skip visiting Suli. This city is in the east corner of Kurdistan and is universally loved by travelers. Possibly because it’s the only city with a hostel in all of Iraq. Here you can visit the harrowing museums depicting the atrocities Saddam Hussein committed against the Kurdish people & also after, unwind with some panoramic Zagros mountain views. 

Where to Stay: Dolphin Hostel

The only hostel in all of Iraq. The owner here is super helpful and kind. Be sure to book in person or via WhatsApp for the best price. And don’t forget to drop that you’re a member of the Iraqi Travellers Cafe on Facebook.

WhatsApp: +964 770 184 6332

If you’re like me you’ll probably end your trip through Iraq with a flight out of Erbil (known for its cheap flights to Turkey). And that’s a wrap. This is a jam-packed 2-week itinerary in Iraq. Personally, I think that just under 3 weeks is the perfect amount of time for the road trip + all the extra add-ons without completely burning the candle at both ends. 

Let me know in the comments if you have any questions about Iraq or if you have any thoughts on other destinations to add to our Iraq travel itinerary! 

Save This Post For Later!

Further Reading...

13 Beautiful + Famous Places in Iraq You MUST Visit

Guns, Methane Marshes, & Abou Haidar: Our Night Spent in the Heart of Ancient Mesopotamia

Very helpful post! Thank you so much for this! Is it easy to get shared taxis from one place to the other or you can get only obe or two per day? I am really between relying on public transportation and car rental!

Thank you for reading 🙂 It was very easy to get shared taxis between cities! I would recommend relying on public transit for federal Iraq and only renting a car in the Northern Iraqi Kurdistan region.

Very helpfull and inspirative 👍. Thank you

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How to Plan an Epic Iraqi Kurdistan Road Trip (Full Itinerary)

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Iraq Tourist Attractions

The Abbasid Palace, Baghdad

The last remaining Abbasid Palace in Baghdad is a historic two-story building that overlooks the Tigris river in the al-Maiden district of the city. The Abbasid dynasty ruled the Islamic empire from modern-day Baghdad from the 8th to the 13th centuries, and gave rise to the Islamic Golden Age during this time. Said to have been built during the reign of Caliph Al-Naser Ledinillah, historians allege that the structure was utilized for educational purposes due to similarities in its design to Iraq’s Al-Mustansereyya School.

House of Wisdom by History of Information

Babylon, the center of Mesopotamia for two millennia and one of the most notorious cities of the ancient world, is located 52 miles south of Baghdad. Founded around 2300 BC, the city is considered to be one of the earliest cradles of civilization, and a cultural center for art, science, and literature.  Situated with access to both Tigris and Euphrates rivers, Babylon was a coveted city and served as the capital for 10 Mesopotamian empires. Guarded by massive walls, Babylon was once the largest and most powerful city in the world, attracting people, ideas, and products from all walks of life.

The city is believed to the home of several notable ancient monuments, including one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Said to once have had walls eighty feet tall with hanging plants and multi-tier terraces, the gardens’ exact location has not been determined. Babylon is also believed by many to be home to the famed Tower of Babel cited in religious texts.

Ziggurat of Ur

Ziggurats, terraced pyramid temples erected during Ancient Mesopotamia, are found throughout Iraq and Iran. One of the most well-preserved ziggurats is the Ziggurat of Ur built by King Ur-Nammu around 21st century BC. At the top of the ziggurat sits a temple dedicated to honor Nanna, the patron diety of the city of Ur, located today in Tell el-Muqayyar in southern Iraq. The ziggurat is thought to have served as a site for agricultural commerce as well as for spiritual purposes.

by Ferrell Jenkins

Aqar Quf/ Dur-Kurigalzu

New York Times

Kirkuk Citadel and Daniel’s Tomb

At the center of Kirkuk, a historically ethnically diverse city located in Iraqi Kurdistan, lies the Kirkuk Citadel established around 880 BC. Allegedly built by King Ashurnasirpal II for defense purposes and then later reinforced with 72 towers under King Sluks’ rule, the citadel sits on top a 130 foot high mound. Within the citadel, one can experience its many colorful gems, such as the “Red Church, the Green Dome Mosque,  and the blue-tiled Tomb of Daniel.

by Susa on Flickr

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Republic of Iraq Middle East Baghdad 32,585,692 inhabitants 438,317 sq km 74.34 inhabitants/sq km Iraqi dinars (IQD) population evolution

Top tourist attractions in Iraq

Here is a list of top tourist attractions in Iraq . Only the topmost tourist destinations are presented here. To see other destinations, please check the images from Iraq section.

Curious if any of these place from Iraq made it our best tourist attractions in the world list? Read the aformentioned article in order to find out.

You can also view all tourist attractions in Iraq and other countries on our tourist attractions map .

National Museum of Iraq

The National Museum of Iraq is a museum located in Baghdad, Iraq. Also known as the Iraq Museum, it contains precious relics from the Mesopotamian civilization.

Wadi-us-Salaam

Wadi Al-Salaam is an Islamic cemetery, located in Shia holy city of Najaf, Iraq. It is reputed to be the largest cemetery in the world. It is estimated more than half a million corpses are interred in the cemetery each year. The cemetery covers 1485.5 acres and contains millions of bodies. The cemetery holds the graves of many Muslims, and is located near the shrine of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, the first Shia Imam and fourth Sunni Caliph. Thus, nearly all Shi'as in Iraq request that they be buried in this cemetery.

Baghdad Zoo

The Baghdad Zoo is a 200-acre zoo originally opened in 1971 and located in Baghdad, Iraq, in the al-Zawraa' Gardens area along with the Zawraa Amusement Park and Zawraa' Tower. Before the 2003 invasion of Iraq, the zoo housed 650 animals. After being decimated during the 2003 Iraqi war, when only about 35 animals survived, the zoo was reopened in 2003 and now houses about 1070 animals.

Al-Shaheed Monument

The al-Shaheed Monument, also known as the Martyr's Memorial, is a monument in the Iraqi capital Baghdad dedicated to the Iraqi soldiers who died in the Iran-Iraq war. The Monument was opened in 1983, and was designed by the Iraqi architect Saman Kamal and the Iraqi sculptor and artist Ismail Fattah al-Turk. During the 1970s and 1980s, Saddam Hussein's government spent a lot of money on new monuments, which included the al-Shaheed Monument.

Tourism in Iraq

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Tourism in Iraq is growing. But why is this industry so important and how should it best be managed? Read on to find out…

Geography of Iraq

Tourism in iraq , statistics about tourism in ira, the most popular tourist attractions iraq, the most popular types of tourism iraq, the economic impacts of tourism in iraq, the social impacts of tourism in iraq, the environmental impacts of tourism in iraq, crime and safety iraq , the types of tourists travel iraq, faqs about tourism in iraq, to conclude: tourism in iraq.

Iraq is a country located in Western Asia, with a population of approximately 40 million people. It is bordered by Turkey to the north, Iran to the east, Kuwait to the southeast, Saudi Arabia to the south, Jordan to the southwest, and Syria to the west.

The geography of Iraq is largely characterized by two major rivers, the Tigris and Euphrates, which flow through the country from the northwest to the southeast, ultimately emptying into the Persian Gulf. These rivers have played a significant role in shaping the country’s history, providing water for agriculture and serving as important trade routes.

In addition to the rivers, Iraq features a variety of landscapes, including mountains, plains, and deserts. The northern part of the country is mountainous, with the Zagros Mountains extending into the northeast from neighboring Iran. The central and southern parts of the country are dominated by a vast desert plateau known as the Arabian Desert, which includes the vast Rub’ al-Khali (Empty Quarter) desert in the south.

The climate of Iraq is largely desert or semi-arid, with hot summers and mild winters. The country also experiences periodic droughts and sandstorms.

Iraq is home to a variety of ethnic and religious groups, including Arabs, Kurds, Turkmen, Assyrians, and others. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with historic sites such as the ancient city of Babylon and the ziggurat at Ur, as well as more recent landmarks such as the Al-Askari Shrine in Samarra. However, Iraq has also faced significant political instability and violence in recent decades, including the Gulf War, the Iraq War, and ongoing sectarian conflict.

The tourism industry in Iraq has been greatly affected by decades of political instability and violence. However, in recent years, the government has made efforts to revive the industry and promote Iraq as a tourist destination.

Iraq has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with numerous historic sites and landmarks, including the ancient city of Babylon, the ruins of Nineveh, the ancient city of Ur, and the Al-Askari Shrine in Samarra. The country also has several national parks and nature reserves, including the Mesopotamian Marshes, which were designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2016.

To promote tourism, the Iraqi government has launched several initiatives, including the creation of a tourism board and the establishment of visa-free entry for citizens of several countries, including Iran, Turkey, and Egypt. The government has also invested in infrastructure and facilities to support tourism, including the construction of new hotels and the renovation of historic sites.

Despite these efforts, the tourism industry in Iraq still faces significant challenges, including ongoing security concerns and a lack of adequate infrastructure in some areas. However, with continued investment and support, Iraq has the potential to become a popular tourist destination and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

Now, lets demonstrate how significant tourism in Iraq is but highlighting some of the key statistics:

In 2018, the number of foreign visitors to Iraq was estimated to be around 1.8 million, up from 1.4 million in 2017.

The majority of foreign visitors to Iraq in 2018 came from neighboring countries, including Iran, Turkey, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia.

The tourism industry in Iraq is estimated to have contributed around $1.6 billion to the country’s GDP in 2018.

The Iraqi government has set a target of attracting 5 million foreign visitors per year by 2025.

In 2019, the Iraqi government launched a tourism campaign called “Visit Iraq” to promote the country as a tourist destination.

The Mesopotamian Marshes, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, are one of Iraq’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting around 200,000 visitors per year.

In recent years, several new hotels and resorts have been built in Iraq, including the five-star Babylon Rotana Hotel in Baghdad and the Palm Beach Hotel in Basra.

The Al-Askari Shrine in Samarra, one of Iraq’s most important religious sites, has been rebuilt following a terrorist attack in 2006.

Iraq has a small but growing ecotourism industry, with tours of the Mesopotamian Marshes and other natural areas available.

Despite ongoing security concerns, some adventurous travelers have reported positive experiences visiting Iraq in recent years, citing the country’s friendly people, rich cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes.

Tourism in Iraq is largely popular due to its range of tourist attractions. Here are the major examples:

The ancient city of Babylon – Located south of Baghdad, this historic city is home to the ruins of the ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The ruins of Nineveh – Located near the city of Mosul, these ruins were once the capital of the Assyrian Empire and are home to several historic sites, including the Tomb of Jonah and the Palace of King Sennacherib.

The ziggurat at Ur – Located in southern Iraq, this ancient stepped pyramid is one of the best-preserved examples of Mesopotamian architecture.

The Al-Askari Shrine – Located in Samarra, this important Shiite Muslim shrine was damaged in a terrorist attack in 2006 but has since been rebuilt and is now one of Iraq’s most important religious sites.

The Mesopotamian Marshes – Located in southeastern Iraq, these marshes are home to a unique ecosystem and are a popular destination for ecotourists.

The Citadel of Erbil – Located in the northern city of Erbil, this historic fortress is one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world.

The Basra War Cemetery – Located in the southern city of Basra, this cemetery is a memorial to the soldiers who died during the First and Second World Wars.

The Kurdish region – Located in northern Iraq, this region is home to several natural attractions, including the Zagros Mountains, the Gali Ali Beg Canyon, and the Harir Valley.

The Martyr Monument – Located in Baghdad, this monument commemorates the Iraqi soldiers who died in the Iran-Iraq War.

There are many types of tourism in Iraq, here are the most common:

Cultural tourism – Many visitors come to Iraq to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage, including ancient ruins, historic cities, and important religious sites. Popular cultural attractions include the ancient city of Babylon, the ruins of Nineveh, and the Al-Askari Shrine in Samarra.

Historical tourism – Iraq has a long and complex history, with many important events and figures that have shaped the country and the wider region. Historical tourism is a popular way to explore this heritage, with sites like the Citadel of Erbil and the Basra War Cemetery attracting many visitors.

Religious tourism – As a predominantly Muslim country, Iraq is an important destination for Muslim tourists seeking to explore their faith and visit important religious sites. The Al-Askari Shrine in Samarra is one of the most important religious sites in the country and attracts many visitors each year.

Ecotourism – Iraq is home to several natural attractions, including the Mesopotamian Marshes and the Kurdish region, which offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities. Ecotourism is a growing industry in Iraq, attracting visitors who are interested in exploring the country’s unique ecosystems and natural beauty.

Adventure tourism – Despite ongoing security concerns, some adventurous travelers visit Iraq to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and experience the country’s rich culture and heritage. This type of tourism is not for everyone and requires careful planning and preparation, but can be a rewarding way to explore this fascinating country.

While the tourism industry in Iraq is still developing, there are already some notable impacts of tourism on the country. Here are some of the exotic impacts of tourism in Iraq:

Economic growth – Tourism has the potential to generate significant revenue for Iraq, creating jobs and supporting local businesses. As the tourism industry in the country continues to grow, it could help diversify the economy and support sustainable development.

Cultural preservation – The tourism industry can help preserve cultural heritage sites in Iraq by providing funds for their maintenance and restoration. This can help ensure that these important sites are preserved for future generations.

Increased awareness and understanding – As more tourists visit Iraq, there is an opportunity for increased awareness and understanding of the country’s culture and history. This can help break down stereotypes and misconceptions, promoting greater cross-cultural understanding and empathy.

Environmental conservation – Ecotourism can support conservation efforts in Iraq by raising awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats and wildlife. This can help protect sensitive ecosystems and promote sustainable tourism practices.

Improved infrastructure – The development of the tourism industry in Iraq can lead to improvements in infrastructure, including transportation networks, accommodations, and other amenities. This can benefit not only tourists but also local residents by improving access to services and creating jobs in related industries.

However, it is worth noting that the impact of tourism on Iraq is still limited due to ongoing security concerns and infrastructure challenges. The country also faces significant cultural and social challenges, and the responsible development of the tourism industry will require careful planning and collaboration between stakeholders to ensure that the benefits are maximised and the negative impacts are minimised.

The tourism industry in Iraq has the potential to generate social impacts, both positive and negative. Here are some of the social impacts of tourism in Iraq:

Increased cultural exchange and understanding – Tourism can facilitate cultural exchange between tourists and local communities, promoting greater understanding and appreciation of different cultures. This can help break down stereotypes and promote greater empathy and understanding between people from different backgrounds.

Employment opportunities – The development of the tourism industry can create employment opportunities for local residents, including those in rural areas. This can help to reduce poverty and improve living standards for local communities.

Increased awareness of social issues – As tourists interact with local communities, they may become more aware of social issues affecting the country, such as poverty, gender inequality, and discrimination. This can lead to increased awareness and support for social justice causes.

Disruption of traditional ways of life – The influx of tourists can disrupt traditional ways of life for local communities, leading to changes in culture, values, and social norms. This can lead to tensions and conflicts between tourists and locals, and may threaten the preservation of local cultures and traditions.

Social inequality – The benefits of tourism may not be evenly distributed across society, with some communities and individuals benefiting more than others. This can exacerbate social inequalities and lead to resentment and tensions within local communities.

Degradation of cultural heritage – Uncontrolled tourism development can lead to the degradation of cultural heritage sites, through overuse, poor maintenance, or commercialization. This can threaten the preservation of important cultural assets, and may erode the authenticity and significance of local cultures.

Overall, the social impacts of tourism in Iraq are complex and multifaceted. The responsible development of the tourism industry will require careful consideration of these impacts, and a commitment to ensuring that the benefits of tourism are maximized and the negative impacts are minimizedThe tourism industry in Iraq has the potential to generate social impacts, both positive and negative. Here are some of the social impacts of tourism in Iraq:

Increased cultural exchange and understanding – Tourism in Iraq can facilitate cultural exchange between tourists and local communities, promoting greater understanding and appreciation of different cultures. This can help break down stereotypes and promote greater empathy and understanding between people from different backgrounds.

Social inequality – The benefits of tourism in Iraq may not be evenly distributed across society, with some communities and individuals benefiting more than others. This can exacerbate social inequalities and lead to resentment and tensions within local communities.

Overall, the social impacts of tourism in Iraq are complex and multifaceted. The responsible development of the tourism industry will require careful consideration of these impacts, and a commitment to ensuring that the benefits of tourism are maximised and the negative impacts are minimised ..

The tourism industry in Iraq can also have significant environmental impacts. Here are some of the environmental impacts of tourism in Iraq:

Damage to natural habitats – The development of tourism infrastructure can lead to habitat destruction, particularly in sensitive ecosystems such as wetlands and coastal areas. This can lead to the loss of important wildlife habitats and threaten biodiversity.

Increased pollution – As the number of tourists increases, so does the amount of waste generated, including plastics and other non-biodegradable materials. This can lead to increased pollution, particularly in areas with limited waste management infrastructure.

Resource depletion – Tourism in Iraq can increase demand for natural resources such as water and energy, putting pressure on local resources and potentially exacerbating existing resource scarcity issues.

Climate change – Tourism in Iraq can be a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly through air travel. This can exacerbate climate change, leading to a range of environmental impacts such as sea level rise, increased extreme weather events, and ecosystem disruption.

Wildlife disturbance – Uncontrolled tourism in Iraq can lead to wildlife disturbance, through activities such as off-road driving, excessive noise, and hunting. This can disrupt natural ecosystems and threaten the survival of wildlife species.

Water pollution – Tourism activities can contribute to water pollution, through activities such as sewage discharge and littering. This can have significant impacts on water quality and human health, particularly in areas where clean water is already scarce.

Overall, the tourism industry in Iraq must be developed with careful consideration of these environmental impacts. Sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing waste and energy use, protecting natural habitats, and promoting responsible wildlife viewing, can help to mitigate these impacts and ensure that the benefits of tourism are maximized while minimizing negative environmental impacts.

Resource depletion – Tourism can increase demand for natural resources such as water and energy, putting pressure on local resources and potentially exacerbating existing resource scarcity issues.

Climate change – Tourism can be a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly through air travel. This can exacerbate climate change, leading to a range of environmental impacts such as sea level rise, increased extreme weather events, and ecosystem disruption.

Wildlife disturbance – Uncontrolled tourism can lead to wildlife disturbance, through activities such as off-road driving, excessive noise, and hunting. This can disrupt natural ecosystems and threaten the survival of wildlife species.

Overall, the tourism industry in Iraq must be developed with careful consideration of these environmental impacts. Sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing waste and energy use, protecting natural habitats, and promoting responsible wildlife viewing, can help to mitigate these impacts and ensure that the benefits of tourism are maximised while minimising negative environmental impacts.

Due to the security situation and ongoing conflicts in some parts of the country, tourism in Iraq is not as developed as in many other countries in the region. As a result, the types of tourists who travel to Iraq tend to be limited in number and specific in their interests. Here are some of the types of tourists who may travel to Iraq:

Business travelers – Iraq has significant oil reserves and a growing economy, which attracts a number of business travelers to the country. These travelers may visit for meetings, negotiations, and other business-related activities.

Religious pilgrims – Iraq is home to a number of important religious sites, including the Shia holy cities of Najaf and Karbala, which attract Shia Muslim pilgrims from around the world.

History and culture enthusiasts – Iraq has a rich history and culture, with important archaeological sites and cultural attractions such as the ancient city of Babylon and the National Museum of Iraq in Baghdad. Travelers interested in history and culture may visit Iraq to learn more about the country’s past and present.

Adventure travelers – Despite the security risks, there are some adventurous travelers who may be drawn to Iraq for its rugged landscapes and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Diplomats and journalists – Iraq is home to a number of foreign diplomats and journalists who may travel to the country for work-related purposes.

Overall, tourism in Iraq is limited, and the types of tourists who travel to the country tend to have specific interests or reasons for visiting. It is important for visitors to carefully consider the security situation and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety.

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Iraq, lets answer some of the most common questions on this topic:

Iraq safe for tourists?

Answer: Iraq has been affected by conflicts and political instability in recent years, and the security situation in some areas is still volatile. Therefore, the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Iraq, which advises against all travel to the country. This means that the U.S. government does not recommend travel to Iraq for any reason.

Can tourists obtain a visa to enter Iraq?

Answer: Yes, tourists can obtain a visa to enter Iraq by applying at an Iraqi embassy or consulate in their home country. However, the visa application process can be lengthy and complicated, and travelers may need to provide additional documentation to support their application.

What are the popular tourist destinations in Iraq?

Answer: Iraq has a rich cultural and historical heritage, and there are several popular tourist destinations in the country, including the ancient city of Babylon, the ruins of the ancient city of Nineveh, the Kurdish region in the north, and the city of Najaf, which is an important center of Shia Islam.

What is the best time of year to visit Iraq?

Answer: The best time to visit Iraq is during the spring (March-May) or the fall (September-November), when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summers can be hot and dry, while winters can be cold and rainy.

What types of accommodations are available for tourists in Iraq?

Answer: There are a variety of accommodations available for tourists in Iraq, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. However, the quality of these accommodations can vary widely, and visitors should do their research before booking a place to stay.

What is the currency used in Iraq?

Answer: The currency used in Iraq is the Iraqi dinar (IQD).

Can tourists use credit cards in Iraq?

Answer: Credit cards are not widely accepted in Iraq, and visitors should be prepared to use cash for most transactions.

What is the official language of Iraq?

Answer: The official language of Iraq is Arabic, but Kurdish and other languages are also spoken in certain regions of the country.

What should tourists wear when visiting Iraq?

Answer: Iraq is a conservative country, and visitors should dress modestly when in public. Women should cover their heads and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants or long skirts. Men should also dress conservatively and avoid wearing shorts.

What are the transportation options for tourists in Iraq?

Answer: Transportation options for tourists in Iraq include taxis, buses, and rental cars. However, visitors should be aware that the road network in some areas of the country is poorly maintained, and driving can be hazardous.

As you can see, tourism in Iraq is a very important industry that brings many benefits to the local area and community. However, in order to ensure that tourism is sustainable, it must be carefully managed.

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Essential Baghdad Travel Guide

Top 5 baghdad tourist attractions.

One of the most important cities in human history, Baghdad has a long and illustrious past. As a center for prestigious learning and culture, it has flourished over the centuries. Since 2003 however, it quickly become one of the most dangerous cities on earth. Despite this, the city remains a vibrant hub of Arab & islamic culture where the locals refuse to give in to violence. These days the city is bustling with life, optimism & mass reconstruction projects. Baghdad is slowly rising from the ashes to become a middle eastern tourist centre once again. So, what is there is there to see and do? Here’s the top Baghdad tourist attractions. 

5. Al-Shaheed Monument

Perhaps one of the most iconic Baghdad tourist attractions. Also called the Martyr’s Monument, the Al-Shaheed was opened in 1983 and was originally dedicated to the Iraqi soldiers who lost their lives in the Iran-Iraq war of the 1980s. Iraqis now consider it as a monument to all Iraqi martyrs, not just from the Iran-Iraq War.

It consists of a circular platform built in the middle of an artificial lake. In the center sits a 40 meter tall split turquoise dome. The two halves off-set with an eternal flame and national flag in the middle. A museum, lecture hall, library and exhibition hall lie underneath the dome. There has been talk of the government tearing it down in favor of building a modern shopping complex, but let’s hope that never happens.

4. The Iraq Museum

Iraq’s national museum contains countless valuable relics from the Mesopotamian, Babylonian and Persian civilizations. The museum was infamously looted in the aftermath of the 2003 US invasion of Iraq.

It has taken many years to recover and only some artifacts have been returned. It’s a must see on any Baghdad tour.

Due to the countries’ position as the birthplace of civilisations, the Iraq museum houses some of the most important collections in the world. It’s up there with the British & Egyptian Museums as well as the Pergamon in Berlin (which incidentally houses many of Iraq’s stolen treasures to this day) 

3. Mustansiriya Madrasa

The Madrasa is a medieval school on the banks of the river Tigris. It was once the most important centre for learning in Baghdad. Once upon a time, it specialized in Islamic teachings and is one of the only examples of classic Islamic art left in the city today.

As one of the oldest schools in the world, the madrasa experienced numerous periods of prominence throughout the ages and was even used as a trading caravanserai in later years. Today the complex is nearing full restoration and it part of the modern Mustansiriya University. 

2. Copper Market

As the world’s second largest Arab city (after Cairo), Baghdad has no shortage of markets and souks.

Probably the most colorful is the copper market.

Situated just across the street from the Mustansiriya Madrasa in old Baghdad, the market is hive of activity on any given day. Copper is beaten in a traditional way into pots, jugs & pitchers of all shapes and sizes. It’s a wonderful place for both photography and souvenir shopping.

Not far from here is Mutanabbi Street, the book-selling and literary center of the city. The street is filled with book stores and outdoor stalls. It was named after the 10th century classical Iraqi poet Al-Mutanabbi. Take a stroll down the street and grab a tea in one of the many outdoor cafes.

1. Mausoleum of Abdul-Qadir Gilani

This religious shrine is named after the founder of the Qadiriyya Soufi order – Abdul Qadir Gilani. The complex consists of  a central square, mosque and libraries. It’s towering dome dates from the year 1535.

The shrine is a peaceful place of solitude in a city bustling with noise and chaos. It’s an amazing place to escape it all for a couple of hours. Wander through its corridors, people watch & and marvel at the ornate walls & murals. Soufi Muslims are incredibly welcoming so you’ll feel right at home. The perfect place to end your stay and thus worthy of the top Baghdad tourist attraction!

Travel to   Iraq!

Where to stay.

The two most popular hotels for foreign guests are the Baghdad Hotel & the Palestine Hotel. Both hotels became popular with journalists and media professionals after the 2003 American invasion. They are located in a similar area outside the green zone overlooking the Tigris river.

Both are highly fortified, safe and comfortable with bars, a swimming pool & gym.

Food & Drink

Alcohol can be obtained in a few places around Iraq though mainly in Kurdistan . There are some off licences near the Baghdad hotels on the banks of the river. Iraq produces it’s own beer called Farida – look out for it, it’s a pretty good drop!

There’s also a very strong cafe and tea culture. Tea houses and shisha lounges litter the street corners and make for great mingling. 

Iraqi food is delicious with refined and rich flavours. Recipes mostly consist of vegetable, meat, spice and citrus plus plenty of flat bread, hummus and Baba ghanoush. Portions are huge so you’ll never go hungry. The national dish is called fish Masgouf – see the photo below for how it’s slow cooked in a large fire pit!

How do I get there?

These days Baghdad airport is well connected to middle eastern hubs like Dubai & Istanbul. Click here for full details on how to get to Iraq.

Not only is Baghdad worth visiting alone itself, it’s an ideal base to begin your Iraq tour. A day trip north takes you to Samarra and its iconic spiral minaret. Further south you’ll find the holy cities of Najaf, Karbala and ancient Babylon. You’ll likely be the only tourists in town so take advantage while you can. Our Iraq tours take in all of these attractions and more.

Now is the time to plan your trip to Baghdad! Contact us for more info on travelling to Iraq.

About Post   Author

Shane Horan

When Shane is not endlessly writing award winning content for Rocky Road, he's usually kayaking to and from the beer garden along Berlin's River Spree. 

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You are here, the alana and malakan valley.

Malakan valley lies at the foot of Korek mountain range. It offers beautiful nature, clean spring water and green trees as well as cafeterias to escape the warm summer heat. The valley is at a distance of 25 kilometers from Khalifan and 125 kilometers from Erbil.

Alana Valley sits just 15 kilometers from Khalifan. Visitors marvel at the surrounding forests and enjoy the cool river that goes through Alana. Visitors soak and relax in the natural sounds of their surroundings, such as the sound of the river gushing by or the birds singing.

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Israel Faced a Sophisticated Attack From Iran

The weapons Iran employed this weekend travel farther and are more precise than those Hamas and other allies have used against Israel in the past six months.

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By Jin Yu Young

• April 14, 2024

Late Saturday, Iran began firing hundreds of drones and missiles at Israel, including weapons that experts say are more sophisticated than anything Israel had encountered until now in six months of fighting with Hamas and its allies in the region.

Previously, Israel had faced aerial attacks from Hamas and Islamic Jihad, whose rocket arsenal includes short-range (12 to 25 miles) and somewhat inaccurate 122-milimeter rockets of the Grad family, as well as Syrian-made M-302 rockets with a range of about 100 miles. Hamas also has Fajr-5 rockets from Iran and a similar, locally made version of the Fajr-5, both with a range of about 50 miles.

The weapons Iran used on Saturday can travel much farther, and some of them can travel much faster. Still, Israel said that nearly all of the missiles and drones that Iran fired were intercepted, many with help from U.S. forces.

In the attack, 185 drones, 36 cruise missiles and 110 surface-to-surface missiles were fired toward Israel, according to Israeli military officials. Most of the launches were from Iran, though a small portion came from Iraq and Yemen, the officials said.

Fabian Hinz, an expert on Iran’s military at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in Berlin, said in a post on X that Iran was probably using a cruise missile developed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, the Paveh 351. It has a range of more than 1,200 miles — plenty to reach Israel from Iran.

According to his post, different versions of that missile have also been provided to the Houthis in Yemen and to the Iraqi Popular Mobilization Forces.

And Jeffrey Lewis, a member of the International Security Advisory Board at the U.S. State Department, said in a post on X that Iran was using land-attack cruise missiles that could carry around a ton of explosives.

He also noted that much of Iran’s ballistic missile arsenal has a long enough range to reach Israel. And though Iran’s drones carry much smaller explosive payloads than missiles, they have the advantage of being able to hover and shift targets.

In recent decades, Iran has largely been focused on deterrence, long-range missiles, drones and air defenses. It has one of the largest ballistic missile and drone arsenals across the Middle East, according to weapons experts, and is also becoming a major arms exporter globally.

Last year, after the attack by Hamas in October, Israel asked the United States for more precision-guided munitions for its combat aircraft and more interceptors for its Iron Dome missile defense system. Israel’s weapons arsenal includes Vietnam-era missiles, some of which have a failure rate as high as 15 percent.

Jin Yu Young reports on South Korea, the Asia Pacific region and global breaking news from Seoul. More about Jin Yu Young