Spring
A beautiful time to visit with blooming flowers and mild temperatures.
Travel guide
İraq
Iraq, a country rich in history and culture, offers a diverse range of experiences beyond its capital, Baghdad. From ancient ruins to stunning landscapes, explore the varied regions that showcase the nation's heritage.
U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 1st Class Jeremy L. Wood · Public domain- Best MonthsMarch to May, September to November
- AirportsBaghdad International Airport (BGW), Erbil Inter
- TransitPublic buses and taxis are available.
- Power220V, 50Hz
- Tipping10% is customary in restaurants.
- LanguageArabic and Kurdish
01
When to go
The best time to visit Iraq is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are milder.
Jan
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Mar
Apr
May
Jun
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Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Summer
Hot temperatures can be challenging, especially in southern regions.
Autumn
A pleasant season with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Vibrant
Karrada
A bustling neighborhood in Baghdad known for its shops and cafes.
Can be crowded during peak hours.
Luxurious
Al-Mansour
An upscale area featuring hotels, restaurants, and parks.
Higher prices compared to other neighborhoods.
Historic
Erbil Citadel
Stay near the historic citadel in Erbil, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Limited modern amenities.
Cultural
Sulaymaniyah
A cultural hub with a vibrant arts scene and beautiful parks.
Less touristy, offering a local experience.
Spiritual
Najaf
A holy city with significant religious sites and a unique atmosphere.
Can be busy during religious events.
Historical
Kufa
Close to Najaf, known for its historical significance and mosques.
Limited accommodation options.
Coastal
Basra
A port city with a rich history and waterfront views.
Hot summers can be challenging.
Scenic
Duhok
Nestled in the mountains, offering stunning natural scenery.
Limited nightlife options.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Kebabs
Try local kebabs at street vendors or small eateries throughout Baghdad.
→ Best enjoyed fresh off the grill.
Dolma
Stuffed vegetables commonly found in Kurdish cuisine, especially in Erbil.
→ Look for family-run restaurants.
Masgouf
Grilled fish, a specialty in Basra, often served with rice and vegetables.
→ Enjoy it by the riverside.
Tabbouleh
A refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur, popular in many regions.
→ Great as a side dish.
Pacha
A traditional dish made from sheep's head, often served during special occasions.
→ Try it at local celebrations.
Baklava
A sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with nuts and honey, found in many cafes.
→ Perfect with a cup of tea.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Ziggurat of Ur
An ancient Sumerian temple complex located near Nasiriyah.
Erbil Citadel
A historic citadel that has stood for thousands of years in Erbil.
The Marshes of Southern Iraq
A unique ecosystem and UNESCO site, home to diverse wildlife.
Baghdad Museum
Home to a vast collection of artifacts from Iraq's rich history.
Kadhimayn Shrine
A significant religious site in Baghdad, attracting many pilgrims.
Al-Askari Shrine
Another important shrine located in Samarra, known for its stunning architecture.
The Great Mosque of Samarra
Famous for its unique minaret, a symbol of Islamic architecture.
Sulaymaniyah Museum
Showcases the history and culture of the Kurdistan region.
Basra's Old City
Explore the historic streets and buildings of Basra.
The Citadel of Erbil
An ancient fortress with stunning views of the city.
Kufa Mosque
One of the oldest mosques in Iraq, rich in history.
Samarra Archaeological City
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its archaeological significance.
Mount Halgurd
The second highest peak in Iraq, offering hiking opportunities.
The Hanging Gardens of Babylon
An ancient wonder, though its exact location is debated.
Al-Mustansiriya School
An ancient Islamic university in Baghdad, showcasing historical architecture.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
International Arrivals
Most international flights arrive at Baghdad International Airport (BGW) or Erbil International Airport (EBL).
BGWBaghdad International Airport
EBLErbil International Airport
Domestic Travel
Domestic flights connect major cities, while buses and taxis are available for local transport.
Car Rentals
Renting a car is possible in some regions for more flexibility.
Public Transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in urban areas.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Iraq uses type C and type D plugs.
Cash
Cash is widely used; ensure to carry local currency.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up the bill.
Language
Arabic is the official language; Kurdish is also spoken in the north.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A stay of at least one week is recommended to explore key sites.