Baghdad Iraq 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Itinerary for Baghdad, Iraq

Day 1: Exploring Central Baghdad

Places to Go:

  1. Al-Khulafa’ A’ Rashidan Square (Sa’adoun Bridge): A prominent landmark in the heart of Baghdad featuring four large statues representing the Rightly Guided Caliphs, Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman and Ali.
  2. Al-Mutanabbi Street: Known for its bookstores, cafes, and rich literary history. It was rebuilt after the 2007 bombing and is now a symbol of resilience.
  3. Al-Rasafa neighborhood: Home to several historical sites such as the Al-Akhdari Mosque, one of the oldest in Baghdad.
  4. Green Zone (Tahrir Square): The governmental district with some notable buildings like the Iraqi Parliament and the Palestine Hotel, a historic hotel that has hosted numerous journalists.

Where to Eat:

  1. Al-Mansour Restaurant: Try traditional Iraqi dishes such as Masgouf (grilled carp), Kufi Kebab, and Shurbat Adas (lentil soup).
  2. Al-Sham Hotel’s Al-Hanan Restaurant: Enjoy a mix of Iraqi and international cuisine.

Where to Stay:

  1. The Palestine Hotel: A historic hotel in the Green Zone offering comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
  2. Ana Hotel Baghdad: Located near Tahrir Square, this modern hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant.

Things to Know:

  • Dress conservatively out of respect for local customs.
  • Always ask permission before taking photographs.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and follow local safety guidelines.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are widely available but negotiate the price before starting the journey.
  • There is no metro system in Baghdad, so taxis or private cars are the main mode of transportation.

Day 2: Ancient Sites and Museums

Places to Go:

  1. The National Museum of Iraq: Home to a vast collection of artifacts from Mesopotamia, including those from Babylon, Assyria, and Sumer.
  2. Ziggurat of Ur: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located approximately 2 hours south of Baghdad. It’s one of the world’s most famous ancient ziggurats.
  3. Babylon: Another UNESCO site, approximately 1 hour from the Ziggurat of Ur. Explore the ruins of this ancient city, including the famous Hanging Gardens.

Where to Eat:

  1. Ur Restaurant: Located near the Ziggurat of Ur, offering traditional Iraqi dishes.
  2. Babylon Café: In Babylon, serving a variety of meals and drinks.

Day 3: Religious Sites and Shopping

Places to Go:

  1. Al-Kadhimain Mosque Complex: A significant Shia Islamic pilgrimage site housing the tombs of Imam Al-Hussein and Imam Al-Zaineb.
  2. Sayid Meshhad Al-Kazim: A Shia religious shrine dedicated to Imam Kazem, one of the Twelve Imams.
  3. Al-Kindi Street: Baghdad’s main shopping street with numerous stores selling souvenirs, clothing, and electronics.

Where to Eat:

  1. Al-Kazimiyah Area: There are several restaurants offering traditional Iraqi dishes, especially around the shrine of Imam Kazem.
  2. Al-Kindi Street: You’ll find a variety of food stalls and cafes along this bustling street.

Day 4: Leisure and Departure

Places to Go:

  1. Baghdad Zoo: Visit the animals, including lions, tigers, and camels.
  2. Tigris River Cruise: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the Tigris River and take in the sights of Baghdad from the water.

Where to Eat:

  1. Al-Rasheed Street: Known for its cafes, tea houses, and sweets shops.
  2. Tigris Riverfront Restaurants: Enjoy a meal with a view at one of the many restaurants along the river.

Tips:

  • Bring cash as credit cards may not be widely accepted.
  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases to help with communication.
  • Respect local customs and traditions during your visit.