Tikrit - Discovering Iraq

Travelling to Tikrit

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

General info for a trip to Tikrit

Tikrit is a city located in central Iraq, about 160 kilometers northwest of Baghdad. It is the administrative center of Salah ad-Din Governorate and has a population of around 160,000 people. Tikrit is known for its historical significance as the birthplace of former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein. The city also has several important archaeological sites, including the ancient city of Assur, the ancient city of Nimrud, and the famous archeological site of Hatra. Tikrit has a hot desert climate, with temperatures that can reach up to 50°C during summer months.

What to visit in Tikrit

Tikrit is a city located in the Saladin Governorate of Iraq. It is a historic city with many tourist attractions. Here are some of the main tourist attractions of Tikrit: 1. Salahaddin University - The university is one of the oldest universities in Iraq and is located in Tikrit. It offers courses in a wide range of fields such as medicine, engineering, law, education, and more.
2. Tikrit Castle - The castle dates back to the medieval times and is located in the center of the city. It was built by the Abbasid Caliphate and has been renovated several times over the years.
3. Al-Dour Archaeological Site - This site is of great historical and archaeological significance. The area has been continuously occupied for over 5000 years and has been home to several different civilizations.
4. Tikrit Museum - The museum showcases the rich history and culture of Tikrit and the surrounding area. It houses a large collection of artifacts and relics dating back to ancient times.
5. Tikrit Football Stadium - The stadium is the home of Salahaddin FC, one of the most popular football clubs in Iraq. It is located on the outskirts of the city and can accommodate over 20,000 spectators.
6. Tikrit Grand Mosque - The mosque is one of the largest in Iraq and is located in the center of the city. It was built in the 1800s and has been renovated several times over the years.
7. Saddam Hussein's Palace - The palace was built by the former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein in the 1990s and is located on the outskirts of the city. The palace is now used as a military base.
8. Tikrit Market - The market is located in the center of the city and is a bustling hub of activity. It offers a wide range of goods such as spices, textiles, and handicrafts.
These are some of the main tourist attractions of Tikrit. Visitors can enjoy the rich history and culture of the city and explore its many sites of interest.
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 Tikrit.

When to go on holiday to Tikrit

It is important to consider the safety situation in Tikrit and Iraq as a whole before planning a trip. Currently, the US State Department advises against all travel to Iraq due to the high risk of terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict. If the safety situation improves and travel to Tikrit becomes possible, the best time to visit would be in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild. Summer temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 39 degrees Celsius) and there is little rain. Winter can bring some rainfall and temperatures can drop to around 40 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 4 degrees Celsius).

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

How to get to Tikrit

To get to Tikrit, there are a few options depending on where you are starting from. If you are flying internationally, you would need to fly into either Baghdad International Airport or Erbil International Airport and then take a car or taxi to Tikrit. Both airports have international flights and are served by several airlines.
If you are already in Iraq, you could either drive from nearby cities such as Samarra, which is approximately 30 km from Tikrit or take a shared taxi or bus from the main bus stations.
It's important to know that travel within Iraq can be challenging due to the current security situation, so it's essential to stay updated on travel advisories and any potential risks that may impact your planned journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Tikrit, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tikrit

Some of the typical foods of Tikrit in Iraq are: 1. Masgouf: It is a fish dish that is an Iraqi specialty. The fish is marinated in spices and grilled over an open flame.
2. Kubba Hamuth: It is a popular dish consisting of a meat filling wrapped in a shell made from cracked wheat. It is deep-fried until crispy and served with a tangy dip.
3. Tashreeb: It is a savory soup made with layers of bread, meat, and vegetables. It is usually served with a side of warm lamb broth for dipping.
4. Dolma: It is a dish made from stuffed vegetables, such as eggplants, zucchini, and peppers, filled with rice and meat. The vegetables are cooked in a tomato sauce and served hot.
5. Qima: It is a ground beef dish mixed with spices and cooked with rice or noodles. It is a popular comfort food and is served with sides of fresh herbs and vegetables. 6. Samak Turki: It is a traditional Iraqi dish comprises of fish cooked in a tomato and onion gravy.
7. Quzi: It is a roasted lamb with rice and nuts, usually garnished with raisins and served on festive occasions.
These dishes reflect the rich culinary heritage of Tikrit and the unique blend of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors.
You can find general info about typical foods in Iraq here.

Is Tikrit an expensive destination for tourists?

Tikrit is not a popular tourist destination and it can be quite difficult to travel there due to safety concerns. However, if you do decide to visit, it is important to note that Iraq's currency is the Iraqi dinar (IQD) and prices for accommodations and activities may vary depending on your budget and preferences. Compared to other major cities in Iraq, Tikrit may have fewer options for accommodation, dining, and entertainment. Overall, it is best to research and plan your trip carefully in order to avoid any unexpected expenses.

Where to find accomodation in Tikrit

Tikrit is a city located in the Salahaddin Governorate in Iraq, and there are a few areas that are suitable for finding accommodation for visiting Tikrit. Some of the top areas to consider include: 1. Tikrit City Center: This area offers the most convenience for visitors, as it is close to the major attractions in Tikrit, such as Tikrit Castle and the Tikrit River. There are many hotels in this area, ranging from budget options to luxury hotels.
2. Al-Dour: This village is located just outside of Tikrit and is home to the famous Al-Dour archaeological site, which is worth a visit. There are a few hotels and guesthouses in this area, but it is less developed than Tikrit City Center.
3. Samarra: This city is located about 50 kilometers south of Tikrit and is home to the famous Al-Askari Mosque and other historical sites. There are several hotels in this area that cater to tourists.
Overall, Tikrit City Center is likely the best area to find accommodation for visiting Tikrit, as it offers the most convenience and variety in terms of lodging options.
You can check hotel prices at Tikrit here:
Booking.com

Is Tikrit a safe destination for tourists?

Tikrit, Iraq is located in a region that has experienced significant security concerns in recent years. The US State Department currently advises against travel to Iraq due to safety and security concerns and the high threat of terror attacks and kidnapping. Although Tikrit has been the site of historic and cultural significance, the city and surrounding areas have been heavily impacted by violent conflict, and it is not considered a safe place for tourist visits at this time. It is strongly recommended that travelers exercise extreme caution if considering travel to Tikrit or any other part of the country.
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 Tikrit.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tikrit the most?

As a travel website, I must suggest that it's not safe to travel to Tikrit due to the current political and security situation in the country. The US State Department has issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Iraq, which is the highest level of advisory warning.
However, to answer your question, Tikrit is mostly known for its historical significance as it was the birthplace of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein. The city offers a number of museums and landmarks dedicated to him. It also has a few parks and outdoor areas for recreational activities.
That being said, Tikrit may not be suitable for young people looking for fun as there aren't many nightlife options available. It could be interesting for couples or families who are interested in history and culture. However, safety is a major concern in Iraq, and it's important to exercise extreme caution and seek advice from travel experts and government agencies before planning a trip to the country.

How to get around Tikrit

In Tikrit, the most common modes of transportation are taxis and buses. Taxis offer the most flexibility and convenience for moving around the city, and can often be hailed on the street or arranged through a hotel or restaurant. Local buses are another option but may be more difficult to navigate without knowledge of the local language. It is important to negotiate the fare with the taxi driver before beginning the journey to avoid being overcharged. Additionally, if renting a car, it is advised to be familiar with the local driving laws and customs.

What to see around Tikrit

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Tikrit: 1. Samarra: Explore the ancient city of Samarra, which is famous for its impressive archaeological sites such as the Great Mosque of Samarra, the Spiral Minaret, and the Abbasid Palace.
2. The Al-Asha Palace: Visit the stunning Al-Asha Palace, which is located in nearby Baiji.
3. Hot springs: Relax at the hot springs in the town of Tuz Khormato, which is located about 70 kilometers east of Tikrit.
4. Lake Tharthar: Take a boat tour or go fishing at Lake Tharthar, which is surrounded by picturesque desert landscapes.
5. Tikrit Dam: Enjoy a scenic drive to the Tikrit Dam and admire the views of the Tigris River and the surrounding countryside.
6. Salah ad-Din Governorate Museum: Learn about the history and culture of the region at the Salah ad-Din Governorate Museum, which is located in the city of Samarra.
7. Ancient ruins: Explore the ruins of the ancient city of Hatra, which is located about 200 kilometers southwest of Tikrit.
I hope you find this information helpful. Have a great day trip!
For every travel information about Iraq you can click here.

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