Erbil Iraq 5 Day Itinerary

Erbil, Iraq 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

Morning

  • Arrive at Erbil International Airport (EBL)
  • Take a taxi or private transfer to your hotel in the city center (~ $10-15)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world
  • Explore the Erbil Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace filled with local goods and souvenirs

Evening

  • Check-in at Hotel Erbil (or similar) and freshen up
  • Enjoy dinner at Khanzad Restaurant, serving traditional Kurdish cuisine

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the Erbil Museum, showcasing the history and culture of Kurdistan
  • Explore the Hawler Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of the city

Afternoon

  • Head to the Sami Abdulrahman Park, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike
  • Visit the Martyrs’ Memorial, a monument dedicated to the Kurdish martyrs who fought against Saddam Hussein’s regime

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Al-Dar Restaurant, serving Middle Eastern cuisine
  • Take a stroll around the city center, exploring the local shops and cafes

Day 3: Nature and Adventure

Morning

  • Drive to the Gali Ali Bag Waterfall (approx. 1 hour), a stunning natural wonder in the Kurdistan region
  • Take a hike in the surrounding mountains and enjoy the scenic views

Afternoon

  • Visit the Erbil Dam, a massive dam that provides water and electricity to the city
  • Go on a boat tour of the dam’s lake (optional)

Evening

  • Return to Erbil and enjoy dinner at Bijou Restaurant, serving international cuisine
  • Relax at your hotel or explore the local nightlife

Day 4: Day Trip to Shaqlawa

Morning

  • Drive to Shaqlawa (approx. 30 minutes), a picturesque town surrounded by mountains and valleys
  • Visit the Sahqlawa Castle, a historic fortress with stunning views of the surrounding area

Afternoon

  • Explore the Shaqlawa Bazaar, filled with local goods and souvenirs
  • Enjoy lunch at a traditional Kurdish restaurant in Shaqlawa

Evening

  • Return to Erbil and enjoy dinner at Kurdistan Restaurant, serving traditional Kurdish dishes
  • Relax at your hotel or explore the local nightlife

Day 5: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Check-out of your hotel and head to Erbil International Airport (EBL) for your departure flight

Things to Know

  • Visa: Check with the Iraqi Kurdistan Region’s visa requirements before traveling
  • Safety: Erbil is generally considered safe, but take normal precautions to ensure your safety
  • Culture: Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or attending cultural events
  • Language: Kurdish (Sorani) is the official language, but many locals speak Arabic and English

Transportation

  • Taxis: Widely available, but agree on the fare before departing
  • Private Transfers: Can be arranged through your hotel or a local tour operator
  • Car Rental: Available at Erbil International Airport (EBL) or in the city center

Tips

  • Bargain: Expect to haggle when shopping at markets
  • Respect: Remove your shoes when entering mosques or homes, and avoid public displays of affection
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during outdoor activities
  • Learn Some Kurdish: Greet locals with “Salâm” (hello) and “Tashakkur” (thank you)

Accommodation

  • Hotel Erbil: A 4-star hotel in the city center, offering comfortable rooms and amenities
  • Other Options: Range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels

Dining

  • Khanzad Restaurant: Serving traditional Kurdish cuisine
  • Al-Dar Restaurant: Offering Middle Eastern dishes
  • Bijou Restaurant: Serving international cuisine
  • Kurdistan Restaurant: Specializing in traditional Kurdish dishes