Al Hillah - Discovering Iraq

Travelling to Al Hillah

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Al Hillah, a pretty good destination in Iraq (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Al Hillah and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Al Hillah, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Iraq, here's everything to know about Al Hillah for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Al Hillah

Al Hillah is a city located in central Iraq, about 100 kilometers south of the capital, Baghdad. It is the capital of Babylon Governorate and is home to an estimated population of over 500,000 people. The city is known for its historical significance as it was once the center of the ancient empire of Babylon. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of Babylon, including the Ishtar Gate and the Hanging Gardens, which are considered some of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Additionally, Al Hillah is home to several modern amenities, including hotels, restaurants, and markets. However, it is important to note that due to security concerns, travel to this region of Iraq may be restricted or dangerous.

What to visit in Al Hillah

Certainly, here are some of the main tourist attractions in Al Hillah, Iraq: 1. Babil - This is the ancient city of Babylon, which is located just south of Al Hillah. It is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world, with a rich history dating back to the 18th century BC. Visitors can explore the ruins of the Babylonian Empire, including the famous Ishtar Gate and the ancient Hanging Gardens.
2. Imam Ali Mosque - This is the most important religious site in Al Hillah and one of the most significant Shia Muslim shrines in the world. It is the final resting place of Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad and the first Shia Imam.
3. Basra Gate - This historic gate is one of the few remaining entrances to the old city of Al Hillah. It is believed to date back to the 12th century and is a popular spot for taking photos.
4. Al-Qadisiyah Dam - Located about 60 kilometers northwest of Al Hillah, this large dam was built in the 1980s to store water from the Euphrates River. Visitors can take a tour of the dam and enjoy activities such as fishing and boating in the nearby lake.
5. Bint al-Huda Cave - This natural cave is located about 20 kilometers east of Al Hillah and is said to have been the hiding place of Bint al-Huda, a famous Arab poet and warrior from the 7th century. Visitors can explore the cave and learn about its historical significance.
6. Al-Hashimiya Tower - This structures was built in the 10th century and is considered one of the oldest and most significant towers in Iraq. It is located about 10 kilometers southwest of Al Hillah.
Visiting these attractions will give visitors a unique insight into the rich history and culture of Al Hillah and Iraq as a whole.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Iraq, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Al Hillah

The best time to go on holiday to Al Hillah, Iraq is during the months of March to May or October to November when the weather is cooler and dry. Summers in Al Hillah can be very hot, with temperatures reaching over 40°C (104°F), while winters can be chilly with occasional rainfall. Therefore, it's best to avoid traveling to Al Hillah during the months of June to September and December to February.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Al Hillah

The best way to get to Al Hillah, Iraq is to fly into Baghdad International Airport, which is approximately 90 kilometers north of Al Hillah. From there, you can either take a taxi or rent a car to drive to Al Hillah.
Alternatively, you can also take a bus from Baghdad to Al Hillah. There are several bus companies that operate between the two cities, and the journey usually takes around two to three hours.
Please note that travel to Iraq may be subject to visa requirements and other restrictions, and it is always a good idea to check with your embassy or consulate before making plans to travel. It is also recommended to stay up-to-date with the latest travel advisories and security alerts.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Al Hillah, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Al Hillah

Sure, here are some typical foods of Al Hillah (Iraq) with a short description for each of them: 1. Masgouf: This is a traditional Iraqi grilled fish dish, usually made with carp. The fish is marinated with spices, then grilled on a skewer over an open flame and served with date sauce and rice.
2. Tashreeb: Tashreeb is a local dish made of pieces of bread soaked in a broth-like soup made with meat, vegetables, and spices. The dish is usually served hot and is a popular lunch or dinner option.
3. Biryani: Biryani is a popular rice dish that is made with a mix of spices, meat (chicken, lamb or beef), and vegetables. It is usually served hot and accompanied by a yogurt raita or cucumber salad.
4. Dolma: Dolma is a dish made of vegetables stuffed with a mix of rice, herbs, and meat or vegetables. The stuffed vegetables are usually cooked in a tomato sauce and served hot as a main dish.
5. Kebab: Kebab is a grilled meat dish that is marinated in spices and cooked over an open flame. The meat can be chicken, beef, or lamb and is served with rice, salad, and sometimes bread.
6. Falafel: Falafel is a popular vegetarian dish made of deep-fried chickpea balls that are served in pita bread with a variety of toppings such as tahini sauce, hummus, and salad.
Overall, Al Hillah has a range of delicious dishes that are rich in flavor and reflect the country’s cultural traditions and history.
You can find general info about typical foods in Iraq here.

Is Al Hillah an expensive destination for tourists?

Al Hillah is not a very popular tourist destination and is mostly visited by pilgrims, so the prices for accommodation, food, and transportation are generally affordable. However, prices can vary depending on the season of the year you visit and the type of accommodation you choose. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices before traveling. It is also recommended to consult with a travel agent or a local tour operator for more detailed information on prices.

Where to find accomodation in Al Hillah

The best areas to find accommodations to visit Al Hillah in Iraq are: 1. Al Hillah City Center: This is the most convenient location to stay as it is close to many tourist attractions such as the ruins of Babylon, the Imam Abbas Shrine, and the Lalish Temple. There are a variety of hotels and guesthouses to choose from in the city center.
2. Al-Musayyib: This area is located south of Al Hillah and is known for its beautiful scenery and historical sites such as the Al-Musayyib Bridge and the Al-Anbariya Mosque. There are also a few budget-friendly options for accommodation in this area.
3. Najaf: Najaf is located about an hour's drive from Al Hillah and is home to the Imam Ali Mosque, one of the holiest sites for Shia Muslims. There are many hotels and guesthouses in Najaf that cater to different budgets.
4. Karbala: Karbala is another holy city for Shia Muslims and is located about two hours' drive from Al Hillah. It is home to the Imam Hussain Shrine, which is also a popular tourist destination. There are many hotels and guesthouses in Karbala that cater to different budgets.
You can check hotel prices at Al Hillah here:
Booking.com

Is Al Hillah a safe destination for tourists?

While parts of Iraq, including Al Hillah, have experienced conflict and instability in recent years, the security situation has improved somewhat in some areas. However, it is important to exercise caution and follow the advice of local authorities and your embassy or consulate when traveling in Iraq. It is also advisable to stay abreast of the latest developments and avoid areas where there have been recent incidents of violence or unrest. It is recommended that tourists seek the guidance of professional security firms and travel with a knowledgeable guide if traveling in Iraq.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Iraq here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Al Hillah.

What type of travelers will enjoy Al Hillah the most?

Al Hillah, also known as Babylon, has historical and cultural importance for all types of travelers. However, due to its historical significance and religious sites, families and cultural enthusiasts are likely to enjoy the city the most. Al Hillah has major Islamic shrines such as the Shrine of the two Sajads and the Shrine of Al-Imam Al-Adham. Additionally, it has many historic and ancient sites such as the ruins of Babylon, Birs Nimrud, the Ziggurat of Ur, and the Palace of King Nebuchadnezzar II.
Couples can also enjoy the city's tranquility and history by visiting the famous ancient hanging Gardens of Babylon or taking a romantic walk on the Euphrates River. However, young people looking for fun might not find much of entertainment options in this ancient city as the nightlife options are limited. Therefore, Al Hillah is best suited for families and cultural enthusiasts looking to delve into the ancient history and culture of Iraq.

How to get around Al Hillah

The most common forms of transportation in Al Hillah are taxis, private cars, and buses. Taxis are the most convenient and easily available method of transportation, but negotiating the fare beforehand is recommended. Private cars can be rented from car rental companies, but keep in mind that navigating the city may be challenging for those unfamiliar with the area. Buses are also available and are an affordable option for getting around, but they can be crowded and not always punctual. It's also worth noting that walking or cycling may be viable options for shorter distances within the city.

What to see around Al Hillah

Sure, here are some great places to visit in a day trip from Al Hillah: 1. Babylon archaeological site - located just 25km south of Al Hillah, this ancient Mesopotamian city is filled with impressive ruins and historical artifacts.
2. Imam Ali Mosque - one of the most important Shia pilgrimage sites, this mosque is located in Najaf which is about 77 km southwest of Al Hillah.
3. Al-Kufa Grand Mosque - an important mosque built in the 7th century, located in Al Kufa which is about 60 km northwest of Al Hillah.
4. An-Najaf Cemetery - located in Najaf, this cemetery is one of the largest in the world and a significant site for Shia Muslims.
5. Qadisiyah Dam - located about 60 km east of Al Hillah, this dam is a beautiful place to enjoy nature with a stunning view of the Euphrates River. I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Al Hillah!
For every travel information about Iraq you can click here.

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