Iraq

Iraq: general info for travelers

Iraq is located in Western Asia and shares borders with Iran, Turkey, Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. It has a population of approximately 38 million people and its official language is Arabic. The capital city is Baghdad. Iraq has a rich cultural heritage, with its history dating back to the ancient Mesopotamian civilizations. Its economy is primarily based on the oil industry, and it has significant reserves of oil and natural gas. Iraq has undergone several political and social changes, including the overthrow of Saddam Hussein's regime. Despite efforts to restore stability and promote economic development, Iraq continues to face challenges such as sectarian and political tensions, terrorism, and poverty. In terms of tourism, Iraq has a number of attractions including historical sites such as the ancient city of Babylon, the Ziggurat of Ur, and the ruins of the ancient city of Nineveh. However, travel to Iraq may be restricted or advised against due to safety concerns.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Iraq, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Iraq: places to visit

Here are some of the main places to visit in Iraq with brief descriptions of each: 1. Baghdad: The capital city of Iraq, Baghdad is located on the banks of the Tigris River. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and is home to several ancient mosques and museums.
2. Erbil: Also known as Hawler, Erbil is the capital city of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. It is famous for its ancient citadel, which is considered to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
3. Basra: Situated in the southern part of Iraq, Basra is a port city that offers a unique blend of modern and traditional architecture. It is also known for its famous Basra Date Festival, which is held annually.
4. Samarra: Located north of Baghdad on the banks of the Tigris River, Samarra is home to several ancient relics and sites that date back to the Abbasid era. The famous Al-Askari Shrine, which is one of the holiest sites in Shia Islam, is also located here.
5. Babylon: Once a major city in ancient Mesopotamia, Babylon is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and has several archaeological sites and ruins that attract visitors. The city was famous for its Hanging Gardens, which were considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
6. Mosul: Though Mosul has been through some difficult times recently, it is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The city has a number of impressive ancient sites such as the Al-Nouri Mosque.
Overall, Iraq has a plethora of cultural and historical sites to explore and experience.
There is more to see and do in Iraq: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Iraq: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Iraq, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Iraq has a desert climate with hot summers and cool winters. The temperature can reach over 115°F (46°C) in the summer months of June to August, while the winter months of December to February can have average temperatures of around 50°F (10°C). If you're looking to visit Iraq for the pleasant weather, the best time to go is from March to May and October to November when the temperatures are moderate and the weather is dry. During these months, you can enjoy exploring outdoor attractions, attending festivals, and other activities without being overwhelmed by the heat. However, it's important to note that Iraq has a complex political situation and it's advised to check the current safety situation of the country before planning a trip.

Iraq: activities and what to do

In Iraq, there are various activities and sports that you can enjoy during your trip, depending on your interests and preferences. Here are some options: 1. Visit historical sites: Iraq has many ancient and historical sites such as the ruins of Babylon, the ancient city of Nineveh, and the historical city of Samara. Visiting these sites offers a great opportunity to learn about the ancient history and architecture of Iraq.
2. Religious pilgrimage: For those interested, Iraq is also home to several sacred sites for Muslims, including the holy city of Karbala and the Al-Askari Shrine in Samara, making it a popular destination for religious pilgrims.
3. Hiking and Trekking: Iraq has several mountain areas where you can go hiking and trekking. One of the most popular places is the Kurdistan region, where there are several trekking routes in the Zagros Mountains.
4. Water sports: If you enjoy water sports, then head over to the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, where you can enjoy activities such as boat tours, jet skiing, or fishing.
5. Horseback riding: Horseback riding is another popular activity in Iraq, especially in the rural areas. You can experience the countryside and local culture while riding a horse.
6. Football: Football is the most popular sport in Iraq, so catching a game at a local stadium is a great way to experience the local culture and interact with the locals.
7. Shopping: Iraq is a great place for shopping, and you can find many traditional souks/marketplaces, selling unique handicrafts, carpets, and clothing.

Iraq: few words on history and culture

Iraq has a rich history and culture, dating back to ancient Mesopotamia, the land between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. Mesopotamia is considered to be the cradle of civilization, where the first cities, writing system, and complex societies were formed. Over the centuries, Iraq was ruled by various empires and dynasties, including the Babylonians, Assyrians, Persians, and Ottomans. In the 20th century, Iraq gained its independence from British rule and became a republic in 1958. Iraqi culture is diverse, with influences from its Arab, Kurdish, Turkmen, and Assyrian populations. Family and community are highly valued in Iraqi culture, and hospitality is an important tradition. Iraqi cuisine is also renowned for its rich flavors and spices, with dishes such as biryani, kebab, and dolma. Iraq has a long history of artistic achievements, including literature, poetry, music, and architecture. The ancient city of Babylon, located in present-day Iraq, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the country is home to many other historic landmarks, such as the ruins of Nineveh and the Assyrian capital of Nimrud.

Iraq: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Iraq depends on your location and travel plans. If you are traveling from a neighboring country like Turkey or Jordan, you can take a direct flight or go by road. Major airlines like Turkish Airlines, Emirates Airlines, and Royal Jordanian fly to the Iraqi capital, Baghdad. You can also take a taxi or hire a private car to cross the border into Iraq. Once in Iraq, you can move around using taxis, buses, or private cars. The most convenient way to travel between major cities within Iraq is by air. Domestic flights are operated by airlines like Iraqi Airways, Fly Baghdad, and Fly Erbil. It's important to note that travel to Iraq is subject to certain risks and travel advisories should be checked before planning your trip. To hire a car to visit Iraq, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Iraq: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Iraq with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main traditional foods of Iraq: 1. Tepsi Baytinijan: A popular Iraqi dish made with layers of baked eggplant, minced lamb and tomatoes, garnished with garlic and yogurt.
2. Masgouf: A famous Iraqi grilled fish dish usually made with a type of freshwater fish called "shahmahi". It is typically cooked over an open flame and served with rice and vegetables.
3. Dolma: This dish consists of stuffed vegetables, such as grape leaves, cucumbers, peppers or tomatoes, usually stuffed with rice, spices, minced meat and sometimes herbs.
4. Iraq Lamb Kebab: This dish consists of skewered pieces of lamb, often marinated in onions, garlic, cumin, coriander, and other spices, then grilled over an open flame. 5. Kebab Barazek: A popular dish consisting of minced lamb meat mixed with spices and nuts, then shaped into small patties and grilled. 6. Samoon: A type of traditional Iraqi bread, which is light, airy and fluffy inside and crusty on the outside, often served with hummus and other dips.
7. Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and honey and soaked in a syrup.
These are just a few examples of traditional Iraqi dishes, which are often rich in spices and flavors and typically feature freshly-produced ingredients.

Iraq: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Iraq can be considered affordable for tourists compared to other countries in the Middle East. However, the cost of traveling in Iraq may vary depending on the type of accommodation, transportation, and activities you choose. Some cities and tourist destinations in Iraq can be more expensive than others. For example, Baghdad and Erbil are generally more expensive than other cities in the country. It is advisable to have a travel budget and plan your activities accordingly to ensure that you can enjoy your trip without overspending.

Iraq: where to find accodation

There are various online platforms where you can search for accommodation in Iraq such as: 1. Booking.com 2. Airbnb 3. Expedia 4. Hotels.com 5. Agoda It is important to read the reviews of other travelers who have stayed in the accommodation before you make your reservation. Additionally, it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
You can check hotel prices in Iraq here:
Booking.com

Iraq: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the World Tourism Organization, Iraq received around 1.5 million tourists in 2019. However, it's important to note that tourism in Iraq has been severely impacted by security concerns and ongoing conflicts. There are no specific high tourist season periods in Iraq, but it's recommended to check for major national holidays, events, and weather conditions before planning a trip. It's also recommended to regularly check the travel advice from your country's foreign ministry or embassy to stay informed about any security or safety concerns.
The security situation in Iraq is complex and volatile, and there is an ongoing threat from terrorism, insurgency, and kidnapping. The Iraqi government has advised against all non-essential travel to many parts of the country, especially areas affected by conflict, including parts of Baghdad and the northern and western provinces such as Anbar, Ninewa, and Salah-Din. It is important to stay up to date with the security situation and travel advisories before planning any trip to Iraq. It is also recommended to consult with local authorities and reputable travel agencies for advice on safety and security measures to take while in the country.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Iraq on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Iraq: events for tourists

There are several interesting events and festivals that may interest tourists in Iraq, including: 1. Baghdad International Film Festival - This event attracts filmmakers, actors and movie enthusiasts from around the world to showcase their talent and watch top quality films.
2. National Day of Iraq - Celebrated on October 3rd, this is a national holiday to commemorate the country's independence from Britain. The day is marked with parades, festivals and cultural events.
3. Babylon International Festival - This is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Babylon and features music, dance, and theater performances, as well as arts and crafts.
4. Arbela Festival - This is a vibrant event that takes place in the city of Erbil and features a variety of cultural performances, including music and dance.
5. Baghdad Fashion Week - The event showcases the latest fashion trends in the Middle East and is attended by fashion enthusiasts from all over the world.
These are just a few of the many events that take place in Iraq throughout the year. It is important to check the latest situation and updates about these events and to take necessary precautions while traveling.

Iraq: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Iraq, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
As a virtual assistant, I must inform you that travel to Iraq currently has a high risk due to security concerns. However, I can still provide a hypothetical two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Iraq: Day 1-3: Baghdad -Visit the National Museum of Iraq -Explore the ancient ruins of Babylon -See the iconic Victory Arch and Al-Mutanabbi Street Day 4-5: Samarra -Discover the Samarra Archaeological City, a UNESCO World Heritage site -Visit the impressive Great Mosque of Samarra Day 6-7: Najaf -Visit the holy shrine of Imam Ali Mosque -Explore the beautiful Wadi Al-Salam Cemetery Day 8-9: Karbala -Visit the holy shrines of Imam Hussein Mosque and Imam Abbas Shrine -Explore the historic city center Day 10-11: Erbil -Visit the ancient Citadel of Erbil -Explore the Kurdish Textile Museum -Shop at the colorful bazaars Day 12-13: Sulaymaniyah -Visit the Slemani Art Museum -Explore the historic bazaar of Sulaymaniyah Day 14: Return to Baghdad -Relax and explore the city in your last day in Iraq Please note that this itinerary is subject to change depending on the security situation and your personal preferences. It is highly recommended to obtain up-to-date information about travel restrictions and the current security situation in Iraq before planning your trip.

Iraq: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Iraq described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Ad-Diwaniyah is a city in southern Iraq with a population of approximately 500,000 people. It is the capital of the Al-Qādisiyyah Governorate and is located along the Euphrates River. The city has a r... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ad-Diwaniyah
- Al-Fallujah is a city in the Al-Anbar Governorate in western Iraq, located approximately 69 kilometers west of Baghdad. It has a population of around 300,000 and is known for its historical significan... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Fallujah
- Al-Habbaniyah is a town in central Iraq, located around 75 km west of Baghdad. It is situated on the banks of the Euphrates River, and is known for its scenic beauty. The town is close to Lake Habbani... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Habbaniyah
- 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.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Hillah
- Al-Kufah is an ancient city located in central Iraq, approximately 170 km south of Baghdad. It is situated on the banks of the Euphrates River and has a rich history dating back to biblical times. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Kufah
- Al-Kut is a city located in southeast Iraq, approximately 175 kilometers southeast of Baghdad. It is situated on the east bank of the Tigris River and is the capital of the Wasit Governorate. The city... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Kut
- Al-Mawsil (also known as Mosul) is a city located in the northern part of Iraq, near the border with Syria. It is the second-largest city in Iraq after Baghdad, with a population of approximately 1.5 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Mawsil
- Al Musayyib is a city in the Babil Province of Iraq, located approximately 60 kilometers south of Baghdad. It is situated on the banks of the Euphrates River and has a population of around 150,000 peo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Musayyib
- Al-Nasiriya is a city in southern Iraq with a population of approximately 640,000 people. It is the capital of the Dhi Qar Governorate and is located on the east bank of the Euphrates River. The city ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Nasiriya
- Al-Qa'im is a city located in the western part of Iraq, near the Syrian border. It is located in the Al-Anbar Governorate, which is one of the largest governorates in Iraq. The city has important stra... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Qa'im
- Al-Qurnah is a small Iraqi city located in the Basra Governorate of southern Iraq, near the meeting point of the two rivers, Tigris and Euphrates. It is historically known as the biblical city of Ur f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Qurnah
- Al-Ramadi is a city located in the western province of Anbar in Iraq. It is situated on the Euphrates River and is approximately 100 kilometers west of Baghdad. The city has a historic significance as... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Ramadi
- Al-Zubayr is a town in the southern desert region of Iraq, located approximately 20 kilometers southwest of the city of Basra. The town has a population of around 125,000 people and is known for its i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al-Zubayr
- Amadiya is a small historic town located in the Dohuk Governorate of northern Iraq. The town is situated on a mountain and is known for its stunning views and rich history. Amadiya dates back to at le... CONTINUE here for a trip to Amadiya
- Amarah is a city located in the southeastern part of Iraq, near the border with Iran. It is the capital of Maysan Province and has a population of approximately 400,000 people. The city is situated al... CONTINUE here for a trip to Amarah
- Anah is a city in the western part of Iraq, located about 240 kilometers northwest of the capital city of Baghdad. It is situated on the Euphrates River and is the capital of the Al Anbar Governorate.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anah
- Baghdad is the capital and largest city of Iraq, with a population of over 8 million people. It is located on the banks of the Tigris River in central Iraq. The city has a rich cultural history ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baghdad
- Baquba is a city in Iraq located approximately 50 miles northeast of Baghdad. It is the capital of Diyala Governorate and has a population of around 300,000 people. The city sits on the Diyala River a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baquba
- Basra is a city in southern Iraq, located on the Shatt Al-Arab River near the Persian Gulf. It is the second-largest city in Iraq, with a population of approximately 2.5 million people. Basra is an im... CONTINUE here for a trip to Basra
- Diwaniyah is a city located in central Iraq. It is the capital of the Diwaniyah Governorate and has a population of approximately 600,000 residents. The city is situated on the eastern bank of the Eup... CONTINUE here for a trip to Diwaniyah
- Duhok is a city in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. It's located in the northwestern part of the country, and it's the capital of the Duhok Governorate. Duhok is a culturally diverse city, with a populat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Duhok
- Erbil is the capital city of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a rich history that spans over 8,000 years. The city has a diverse p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Erbil
- Halabja is a city located in the Kurdish region of Iraq, near the Iranian border. It is known for the 1988 chemical attack by Saddam Hussein's regime that resulted in the deaths of thousands of Kurds.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Halabja
- Karbala is a city in central Iraq located about 100 kilometers southwest of Baghdad. It is considered one of the holiest cities for Shia Muslims as it is home to the shrines of Imam Hussein, the grand... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karbala
- Khanaqin is a city located in the Diyala Governorate of Iraq, near the Iranian border. It has a diverse population, with Arabs, Kurds, and Turkmen living in the area. The city has a rich history, and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khanaqin
- Khorramshahr is actually located in Iran, not Iraq. Khorramshahr is a port city in the southwestern province of Khuzestan, on the northwestern bank of the Shatt al-Arab river. It is a relatively small... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khorramshahr
- Kifri is a city in the Diyala Governorate of Iraq, located about 126 km north of Baghdad. It has a population of around 60,000 people and is known for its agricultural produce, including dates, citrus... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kifri
- Kirkuk is a city located in northern Iraq, and it is the capital of Kirkuk Governorate. It has a rich history and is considered one of Iraq's oldest continuously-inhabited cities. Kirkuk is situated i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kirkuk
- Mandali is a city located in the Diyala Governorate of Iraq. It is situated on the border with Iran and is around 120 kilometers northeast of the Iraqi capital, Baghdad. The city has a long history, a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mandali
- 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 approxi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mosul
- Najaf is a city located in the central part of the Iraq, about 160 kilometers south of the capital, Baghdad. It is known as the third holiest city for Shi'a Muslims, and is home to the shrine of Imam ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Najaf
- Nasiriyah is a city in southern Iraq, situated along the banks of the Euphrates River. It is the capital of the Dhi Qar Governorate and is the fifth-largest city in Iraq. The city has a rich history t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nasiriyah
- Ramadi is a city in central Iraq, located approximately 110 kilometers west of the capital, Baghdad. It is the capital of the Al Anbar Governorate and has a population of around 800,000 people. Ramadi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ramadi
- Ranya is a small city located in the eastern part of Iraqi Kurdistan, near the Iranian border. It has a population of around 50,000 people and is mostly inhabited by Kurds. Ranya is known for its beau... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ranya
- Samarra is a city located in the Salahuddin province in Iraq. It is situated on the east bank of the Tigris River and is approximately 125 kilometers north of Baghdad. It is mostly known for its histo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Samarra
- Sinjar is a district in the province of Nineveh, located in northwest Iraq, near the borders of Syria and Turkey. The district is primarily populated by the Yazidi religious minority and has a rich cu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sinjar
- Sulaymaniyah is a city located in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. It is the second-largest city in the region and is known for its rich history and culture, as well as its lively arts and cultural scene... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sulaymaniyah
- 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 i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tikrit


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