Mosul - Discovering Iraq

Travelling to Mosul

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Mosul, 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 Mosul 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 Mosul, 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 Mosul for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Mosul

Mosul is a city located in the northern region of Iraq and is the second largest city in the country, after Baghdad. It is situated on the west bank of the Tigris River and has a population of approximately 1.8 million people. The city has a rich history dating back to ancient Assyrian times and has been an important center of trade and commerce throughout centuries. Mosul is known for its historic landmarks, including the Great Mosque of al-Nuri and the Nineveh ruins, and it has also been heavily impacted by conflicts and wars in recent years.

What to visit in Mosul

Mosul is a historic city located in the northern part of Iraq. Despite being a city that has faced many challenges in recent years, it is home to several important historical and cultural sites. Here are some tourist attractions in Mosul: 1. Great Mosque of al-Nuri: The Great Mosque of al-Nuri is a famous landmark in Mosul. Its slender minaret stands tall at 45 meters and is the city's most recognizable feature. The mosque dates back to the 12th century and is known for its beautiful architecture.
2. Nineveh Archaeological Site: Nineveh was one of the oldest and largest cities in the world. Today, the site is a popular tourist destination and home to the remains of ancient ruins, including palaces, temples, and tombs. Visitors can explore some of the ruins like the Palace of Sennacherib and the Throne Room.
3. Mosul Museum: Located in the downtown area, the Mosul Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in archaeology. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
4. Erbil Citadel: While technically not in Mosul, the Erbil Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is easily accessible from the city. The Citadel dates back to the 5th millennium BC and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places on earth.
5. Qara Serai: Qara Serai is a fortified castle that dates back to the 13th century. The castle is located in the middle of a maze of narrow streets and alleyways and is an impressive sight to behold.
While visiting Mosul, it's essential to keep in mind that the security situation in the city can be challenging. It is advisable to seek the advice of local authorities and adhere to any security protocols to ensure your safety.
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.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Mosul.

When to go on holiday to Mosul

As a virtual assistant, my primary responsibility is to provide information and assist in organizing trips, but it's important to keep in mind that Mosul is currently facing political instability and safety concerns. Therefore, it's not recommended to travel to Mosul for tourism at the moment. Also, weather-wise, the best time to visit Mosul is between the months of March and May, when the temperatures are mild and the rainfall is low. However, it's always important to check the current situation and safety warnings before planning any travel or trips to any destination.

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

How to get to Mosul

As of now, it is not recommended to travel to Mosul, Iraq due to safety concerns. The city has been a conflict zone with ongoing military operations against ISIS.
If you still need to travel to Iraq, you can fly to Baghdad or Erbil International Airport, and then travel by ground transportation to Mosul. However, it is important to note that the security situation can change without warning and travel restrictions may be put in place at any time. It's recommended that you stay up-to-date with the latest travel advisories and consult with a professional travel agent or the Iraqi embassy before planning your trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Mosul, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Mosul

Sure, glad to help! Here are some typical foods from Mosul, Iraq: 1. Kebabs - Skewered meats (usually beef or lamb) grilled over charcoal or an open flame.
2. Kubba - A deep-fried croquette made of rice, minced meat, onions, and spices.
3. Bamia - Stewed okra with tomatoes, garlic, and spices.
4. Masgouf - A grilled fish (usually carp) marinated in a savory mixture of spices, vinegar, and tamarind.
5. Kibbeh - A fried ball made of ground beef or lamb mixed with bulgur wheat, onions, and spices.
6. Tashreeb - A soup made from lamb, vegetables, and bread.
7. Biryani - A flavorful rice dish made with layers of spiced meat (usually chicken) and vegetables.
8. Dolma - Stuffed vegetables (such as peppers or grape leaves) filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and often minced meat.
9. Fattah - A bread-based dish made with lamb, yogurt, and spices, often garnished with fried onions and fresh herbs.
10. Halwa - A sweet dessert made with sesame paste, honey, and sometimes pistachios or almonds.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any more questions.
You can find general info about typical foods in Iraq here.

Is Mosul an expensive destination for tourists?

As of now, Mosul is still recovering from the recent conflict and is not considered a tourist destination. It may not be safe to travel to Mosul as there are still security issues and limited infrastructure. However, should the situation improve, it is difficult to predict how expensive it would be for tourists as it would depend on the availability of services and the level of demand.

Where to find accomodation in Mosul

As Mosul is located in northern Iraq, you can choose to stay in the city center or nearby areas like the Al Majmoua Al Thaqafi district. Another option is to stay in the nearby city of Erbil, which has more modern and upscale accommodation options. It's important to note that due to the ongoing security situation in the region, it's essential to stay updated on any travel advisories and consult with local authorities regarding safety concerns.
You can check hotel prices at Mosul here:
Booking.com

Is Mosul a safe destination for tourists?

Unfortunately, Mosul is still considered a high-risk area for tourists due to ongoing conflict and security concerns. The city has been heavily impacted by conflict and violence in recent years, and many parts of the city may still be unsafe due to the potential for terrorist attacks, kidnappings, and other types of violence. It is strongly recommended that travelers avoid visiting Mosul unless they have a valid reason for doing so and have taken all necessary safety precautions, including obtaining reliable security advice and support. It is always important to stay up-to-date with the latest travel advisories and to follow local guidance and regulations when traveling to any destination, especially those with known security risks.
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 Mosul.

What type of travelers will enjoy Mosul the most?

Mosul is known to be a historically and culturally rich city, particularly due to the Mesopotamian civilization that dates back to around 7000 B.C. However, the city is still recovering from years of conflict and instability. At the moment, it is not recommended for tourists to visit Mosul due to safety concerns. The area is still at high risk for terrorist-related activity.
If someone is interested in visiting Iraq, there are other safer destinations within the country such as Erbil, Dohuk, Sulaymaniyah, and Baghdad. Each location offers unique experiences for different types of travelers - couples, young people, and families. For example, couples might enjoy a scenic visit to Kurdistan's beautiful landscapes, while young people might want to explore the city of Baghdad for its vibrant culture and nightlife. Families might want to visit the ancient ruins of Babylon, which is just outside of Baghdad.

How to get around Mosul

The most common transportation options in Mosul, Iraq are taxis and buses. Taxis are the more convenient option as they are readily available and can be hired for a specific route. However, it is recommended to negotiate the fare beforehand as taxis do not use meters. Buses are another option for getting around Mosul, although they tend to be crowded and may not always follow a set schedule. If you prefer a more private and comfortable option, you can also consider renting a car or hiring a private driver.

What to see around Mosul

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Mosul: 1. Al-Shirqat: It is a historical city located about 80 km south of Mosul that features ancient buildings and ruins.
2. Hatra: An UNESCO world heritage site, Hatra is located about 110 km south of Mosul. It is an ancient city that has impressive fortified walls, temples, and coliseums.
3. Nimrud: Nimrud is an ancient Assyrian city located about 30 km south of Mosul. It features many historical ruins that date back to the 13th century BC.
4. Qal'at Sherqat: Qal'at Sherqat is a historical castle that was built during the Abbasid period. It is located about 95 km south of Mosul.
5. Ashur: Located about 70 km south of Mosul, Ashur is an ancient city that holds a great significance in Mesopotamian history as it was the first capital of the Assyrian empire. It features many historical ruins and artifacts. Please note that due to the existing situation in the region, it is recommended to check the safety measures and the current situation before planning your trip.
For every travel information about Iraq you can click here.

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