Iraq-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Baghdad

Morning

  • Arrive at Baghdad International Airport (BGW)
  • Obtain a visa on arrival (VOA) for $80 USD (subject to change)
  • Exchange currency: Iraqi Dinar (IQD) is the local currency
  • Meet your guide/driver and transfer to hotel

Afternoon

  • Visit the National Museum of Iraq to learn about the country’s rich history and cultural heritage
  • Explore the Al-Mutanabbi Street, a historic street filled with bookstores, cafes, and souvenir shops

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Iraqi cuisine at a local restaurant
  • Take a stroll around the Tigris River and enjoy the city’s atmosphere

Day 2: Baghdad to Babylon (approx. 90 km, 1.5 hours)

Morning

  • Drive to Babylon, one of the most famous ancient cities in Mesopotamia
  • Visit the Ishtar Gate, the only remaining gate of the ancient city
  • Explore the Temple of Marduk, dedicated to the patron god of Babylon

Afternoon

  • Visit the Hanging Gardens of Babylon (reconstructed), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
  • Learn about the history and significance of Babylon at the on-site museum

Evening

  • Return to Baghdad and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant

Day 3: Erbil

Morning

  • Fly from Baghdad to Erbil International Airport (EBL)
  • Check-in to hotel and freshen up
  • Visit the Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world

Afternoon

  • Explore the Kurdish Textile Museum to learn about traditional Kurdish clothing and crafts
  • Walk through the Qaysari Bazaar, a historic marketplace filled with souvenirs, spices, and local products

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Kurdish cuisine
  • Take a stroll around the city and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere

Day 4: Mosul (approx. 100 km, 2 hours)

Morning

  • Drive to Mosul, a historic city with a rich cultural heritage
  • Visit the Mosul Museum, which houses artifacts from the ancient city of Nineveh
  • Explore the Old City, including the ruins of the ancient city walls and gates

Afternoon

  • Visit the Al-Nuri Mosque, a historic mosque that was destroyed by ISIS in 2014 (currently under reconstruction)
  • Learn about the history and significance of Mosul at the on-site museum

Evening

  • Return to Erbil and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant

Day 5: Departure from Erbil

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring Erbil’s city center
  • Check-out of hotel and transfer to Erbil International Airport (EBL)
  • Depart from Iraq

Things to Know

  • Iraq is a conservative country; dress modestly and respect local customs
  • The official language is Arabic, but Kurdish is also widely spoken in the north
  • The Iraqi Dinar (IQD) is the local currency, although USD is widely accepted
  • Be prepared for security checks at airports, hotels, and tourist sites

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of most countries require a visa to enter Iraq
  • Visa on arrival (VOA) is available for some nationalities; check with the Iraqi embassy or consulate in your country
  • E-visas are also available online; apply in advance to avoid delays

Transportation

  • Domestic flights connect Baghdad and Erbil
  • Private car and driver can be hired for transportation between cities
  • Taxis and ride-hailing services are available in major cities

Safety

  • Iraq is generally a safe country, but petty theft and scams can occur
  • Avoid traveling alone at night and use reputable taxi services
  • Stay informed about local conditions and follow the advice of your guide/driver

This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, and adventure, but feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences. Happy travels!