Basra, Iraq 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Ancient City of Basra

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Al-Rasheed Restaurant, known for its traditional Iraqi dishes.
    • Visit the Basra Archaeological Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of Basra city and its surrounding regions.
    • Take a stroll around the Zawiyeh Al-Aymenah (Imam Ali’s Shrine), one of the most important religious sites in Iraq.

  • Afternoon:

    • Head to Shatt Al-Arab Waterfront for a relaxing boat ride along the river that connects the Tigris and Euphrates rivers.
    • Visit the Basra Zoo, home to a variety of wildlife including lions, tigers, and elephants.
    • In the late afternoon, enjoy a cup of traditional Iraqi tea at one of the many cafes along the waterfront.

  • Evening:

    • Have dinner at Al-Hakim Restaurant, famous for its fresh seafood dishes.
    • Spend your evening exploring the vibrant nightlife in Basra, with options like Basra City Mall and local coffee shops.

Day 2: Discovering Basra’s Natural Wonders

  • Morning:

    • Start your day early and head to the Ahwar of Southern Iraq, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a boat tour through the marshes, home to unique wildlife such as otters, water buffalo, and birds.

  • Afternoon:

    • Visit the Abu al-Khasib Mosque in Umm Qasr, one of the oldest mosques in Iraq.
    • Head back to Basra and relax at a local beach like Al-Habib Al-Sabaa Beach.

  • Evening:

    • Have dinner at Al-Husseini Restaurant, another great option for traditional Iraqi cuisine.
    • Spend your evening exploring the local markets, such as the Basra Souq, where you can find a variety of goods from spices to textiles.

Day 3: Basra’s Cultural Landmarks

  • Morning:

    • Visit the Central Library of Basrah University, one of the oldest and most important libraries in Iraq.
    • Explore the Basra National Museum to learn about the history, archaeology, and culture of Basra and its people.

  • Afternoon:

    • Take a tour of the Port of Umm Qasr, one of the busiest ports in the Middle East.
    • Visit the Al-Hekma Al-Basrya (Basra Wisdom) library, the largest library in Iraq and home to over 700,000 books.

  • Evening:

    • Have a farewell dinner at Al-Tawashi Restaurant, offering a variety of seafood dishes.
    • Spend your final evening in Basra relaxing at one of the city’s many cafes or tea houses.

Things to Know:

  • The official language is Arabic, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
  • Iraqi dinar is the local currency. Credit cards are not widely accepted outside major cities and hotels, so it’s best to carry cash.
  • Taxis are the most common form of transportation within Basra. Always negotiate the price before getting into a taxi.
  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid political discussions.

Tips:

  • Bargain in markets and shops for the best prices.
  • Try traditional Iraqi dishes like Machboos (rice dish with meat), Kufa Kofta (meatballs in tomato sauce), and dates (locally grown and highly regarded).
  • Respect local customs and traditions, and be open to new experiences.

Enjoy your trip to Basra!