Iraq

Iraq, known as the cradle of civilization, boasts some of the most significant archaeological and historical treasures in the world. Babylon, once the seat of the mighty Babylonian Empire, features remnants of ancient palaces and temples, with reconstructed sections of the Ishtar Gate offering a window into its grandeur. Near Nasiriyah, the ancient city of Ur is home to the well-preserved Ziggurat of Ur, dating back over 4,000 years and considered one of the most iconic Sumerian structures. In Baghdad, visitors can explore the National Museum of Iraq, which houses Mesopotamian relics, cuneiform tablets, and artifacts from early Islamic periods. The historic quarter of Baghdad includes the Abbasid Palace, Al-Mustansiriya Madrasah, and the vibrant Al-Mutanabbi Street, long known as the intellectual heart of Iraq. The capital is also home to the striking Martyr’s Monument and Al-Shaheed Monument, memorials to recent Iraqi history. To the north, Erbil’s ancient citadel offers breathtaking views and thousands of years of history within its fortified walls. Mosul’s reconstruction includes the rebuilding of Al-Nuri Mosque and restoration of the old city’s heritage. In Kurdistan, the mountainous landscapes around Sulaymaniyah, the scenic beauty of Rawanduz Canyon, and the tranquil shores of Lake Dukan present nature lovers with captivating scenery. Religious pilgrims flock to the cities of Najaf and Karbala, among the most sacred sites for Shia Muslims. The Imam Ali Shrine in Najaf and the Imam Hussein Shrine in Karbala are architectural marvels adorned with gold domes, intricate calligraphy, and vibrant tile work, attracting millions during Muharram and Arbaeen.

Iraqi cuisine is deeply rooted in ancient Mesopotamian traditions and is known for its bold spices, comforting textures, and communal style of serving. The most iconic dish is masgouf, a freshwater carp butterflied, seasoned with tamarind and spices, and slow-grilled over open flames. It’s often served in riverside restaurants in Baghdad and Basra. Another beloved staple is biryani, a dish of spiced rice mixed with small cuts of vegetables and chicken or lamb, commonly accompanied by fried vermicelli. Qeema, a slow-cooked minced meat stew with split chickpeas and spices, is especially prominent during religious observances. Tashreeb is a flavorful dish made by soaking flatbread in meat broth and topping it with chickpeas, onions, and chunks of lamb or chicken. Kubba, similar to Levantine kibbeh, is prepared in various ways—fried, baked, or stewed—and stuffed with seasoned meat and nuts inside a shell of bulgur or rice. Dolma, a mix of stuffed grape leaves, onions, and peppers, is cooked in a tangy pomegranate sauce and is a favorite at family gatherings. For breakfast, many enjoy kahi and geymar, flaky pastry with thick clotted cream and date syrup. Iraqis are also known for their love of tea, often strong and sweet, served in small glasses with dates or sugar cubes. Sweets like kleicha (date-filled cookies) and halawa are common during celebrations.

Getting around Iraq can be challenging without local knowledge, but with preparation, travel is possible. The safest and most efficient method between major cities is flying. Domestic airlines connect Baghdad to cities like Basra, Erbil, and Sulaymaniyah. Flights are generally punctual and well-regulated. Within cities, taxis are the primary mode of transportation. In Baghdad and Basra, traditional yellow cabs operate without meters, so agreeing on a fare beforehand is essential. Kurdish cities often have more modern taxis and even ride-hailing services like Kareem. Intercity shared taxis are common and economical, though travelers should be aware of fluctuating conditions and security checks on the road. Buses exist but are often confusing for foreigners due to lack of signage in English and erratic schedules. Road conditions vary widely. Highways between major cities are paved but can be unpredictable with sudden security checkpoints. Navigation apps like Google Maps are useful but not always accurate; downloading offline maps beforehand is highly recommended. Driving yourself is strongly discouraged due to road hazards, cultural differences in driving, and safety concerns in certain areas. Public transport is limited, but within the Kurdish region, transport tends to be more organized and safer.

Iraq is a budget-friendly destination for those who travel with flexibility and a bit of caution. Accommodations range from modest guesthouses to luxury hotels, with budget hotels available in cities like Baghdad, Najaf, and Sulaymaniyah for as little as $15–$25 per night. Kurdish regions generally offer better infrastructure and options in this price range. Food is inexpensive and plentiful. Street vendors sell meals like falafel sandwiches, shawarma, and samoon bread for less than $2. Traditional restaurants offer hearty portions for reasonable prices, and many provide tea at no extra cost. Travelers can save money by taking shared taxis for intercity travel, though it’s important to budget extra time due to irregular schedules. Visiting religious sites is usually free, though donations are encouraged. Bargaining is customary in markets, especially for souvenirs and local goods. Internet and phone services are cheap; a local SIM card with data can cost under $10. Most transactions are cash-based, so it’s essential to carry small bills. Foreign credit cards do not work due to sanctions, and there are limited reliable ATMs outside major cities.

Iraq presents unique safety challenges. Certain areas remain volatile, particularly in central and western regions including parts of Anbar, Nineveh, and Diyala provinces. However, Kurdistan (especially cities like Erbil and Sulaymaniyah) is widely regarded as much safer and has a growing tourism infrastructure with heightened security. Travelers should always check current advisories from their home countries and avoid any travel to high-risk regions. Movement within cities is generally safe during daylight, but venturing out at night should be avoided, especially in Baghdad or Mosul. Identification must be carried at all times due to frequent security checkpoints. Photography of military personnel or sensitive infrastructure is prohibited and can lead to detention. Hiring a local guide familiar with the region and customs can enhance both safety and experience. Vaccinations and travel insurance are recommended. Travelers should remain vigilant, respect local customs, and stay updated with news through reliable sources.

Iraqis are famously hospitable and respectful, but adhering to cultural norms is essential. Modest clothing is expected; women should wear loose-fitting garments that cover their arms and legs, and men should avoid shorts. In religious cities like Najaf or Karbala, headscarves are mandatory for women. When visiting someone’s home, it’s polite to remove shoes at the door and bring a small gift, such as sweets or fruit. Men typically greet each other with handshakes, while interactions between unrelated men and women are more reserved, particularly in conservative areas. It is important to understand and navigate the social practice of taarof, where offers of food, services, or gifts may be extended out of politeness but not expected to be accepted immediately. Graciously declining once or twice is normal before acceptance. Photography, particularly of people or religious sites, should always be approached with permission. Arabic is the official language, but in the Kurdish region, Sorani and Kurmanji dialects are dominant. Avoid discussing sensitive political or sectarian topics, and never speak critically of religion or cultural traditions.

Iraq is a deeply layered destination perfect for travelers who seek immersive cultural, historical, or spiritual experiences. It’s not for those wanting polished tourism infrastructure, but for those with patience, respect, and curiosity, it offers unmatched authenticity. Adventure seekers will be drawn to Kurdistan’s hiking and mountainous beauty. Spiritual travelers will find profound meaning in visiting the country’s sacred shrines. History lovers will be captivated by the sheer volume of heritage embedded in every region. Culinary travelers will relish traditional Iraqi dishes, and those with a journalistic or academic interest in geopolitics or archaeology will discover an unparalleled field of study.

Budget travelers can stay in locally-owned guesthouses in Baghdad, Erbil, and Basra. In Sulaymaniyah, places like Dolphin Hotel offer simple, clean rooms with friendly service. Many budget accommodations include breakfast and Wi-Fi. Mid-range travelers will enjoy hotels like the Erbil International Hotel or Baghdad’s Al-Mansour Hotel, both of which offer modern amenities, restaurants, and helpful staff. These properties cater to international guests and often have better security. Luxury travelers can find five-star hotels such as the Divan Erbil, which features elegant suites, fine dining, and full concierge services. In Najaf and Karbala, upscale hotels cater to pilgrims with lavish decor and proximity to holy sites.

One of the most common mistakes is arriving without sufficient cash. Due to sanctions, foreign credit and debit cards don’t work in Iraq. Relying on ATMs or digital payments will lead to serious complications. Many travelers also ignore the dress code, especially women, leading to negative attention or restricted entry into religious sites. Dressing modestly and carrying a scarf or abaya is essential. Another misstep is visiting high-risk regions without consulting up-to-date travel advisories. Travelers should not assume that past tourist routes are currently viable and should avoid freelance travel to conflict-affected areas. Not preparing offline maps, translator apps, or VPNs can lead to frustrations due to restricted internet services and app blocks. Finally, overlooking the value of local guides diminishes the richness and safety of the experience.

Snapp and Kareem are useful for booking local transport in larger cities. VPN apps like Psiphon are essential for accessing blocked content. Download Google Translate with Arabic or Kurdish offline packs, and install Organic Maps or MAPS.ME for offline navigation. Currency converters like XE or Bonbast keep travelers updated on the dinar's exchange rate. For pilgrims, Ziyarat apps provide prayer times, shrine maps, and historical context. Local news apps can help track any regional disruptions or advisories.

For cultural travelers, a 10-day itinerary might begin in Baghdad with visits to the National Museum and Al-Mutanabbi Street, then move south to explore Babylon and Ur, before circling back to Najaf and Karbala for spiritual insight. Ending in Erbil allows for a contrast between historical depth and the Kurdish region’s modern feel. Nature lovers could focus on Iraqi Kurdistan, starting in Sulaymaniyah and exploring nearby mountains, waterfalls, and lakes. A trek through Rawanduz Canyon followed by a relaxing stay at Lake Dukan offers scenic adventure without the heat of the south. Pilgrimage routes typically include time in Najaf, Karbala, and Kadhimiya in Baghdad. These cities are central to Shia Islam and offer spiritual, historical, and architectural depth in one journey.

Iraq is home to the earliest known writing system, cuneiform, which originated in ancient Sumer. The country gave birth to the wheel, the first legal codes, and some of the oldest urban settlements on earth. Baghdad was once the center of the Islamic Golden Age and a thriving hub of science, medicine, and philosophy. The marshes of southern Iraq are considered the biblical Garden of Eden by some scholars, and were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Iraq also has one of the world’s oldest and most respected date palm cultures, with over 600 varieties cultivated. Despite years of conflict, Iraq remains a country rich in poetry, literature, and artistic expression. Cities like Baghdad and Basra continue to foster a deep love for storytelling, poetry readings, and traditional music.