Basra Iraq 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Basra, Iraq

Day 1: Arrival & City Orientation

  • Arrive at Basra International Airport. (Transportation Tip: Pre-book a taxi or arrange a pickup through your accommodation.)
  • Check-in at a recommended hotel such as the Basra Rotana, offering comfortable stays with modern amenities.
  • Lunch at Shamlan Al Basrah Restaurant – try local dishes like Machboos (spiced rice) and Basra Fish.
  • Visit the Central Camps Square and learn about the history of Basra’s oil industry.
  • Dinner at Al Mishmish Restaurant, known for its Mediterranean cuisine with a Middle Eastern twist.
  • Evening stroll along the Rasheed Al Khalifa Street, Basra’s main shopping avenue.

Day 2: Historical Sites & Museums

  • Breakfast at your hotel or try local eateries like Al-Haneya Bakery.
  • Visit the ancient ruins of Chogha Zanbil, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, about an hour drive from Basra.
  • Lunch at a local restaurant near Chogha Zanbil.
  • Head back to Basra and explore the Basra Archeological Museum showcasing artifacts from various civilizations.
  • Dinner at Al Sultan Restaurant, known for its seafood dishes.
  • Optional visit to the Basra Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Iraq.

Day 3: Religious & Cultural Sites

  • Breakfast at your hotel.
  • Visit the Husainiya Al-Qiblaain Mosque, a significant religious site for Shia Muslims.
  • Lunch at Karrada Restaurant.
  • Explore the Basra Grand Mosque and its beautiful architecture.
  • Dinner at Al Thuraya Restaurant, offering a mix of Iraqi and international cuisines.
  • Visit the Hope Street, home to several art galleries and studios.

Day 4: Nature & Relaxation

  • Breakfast at your hotel.
  • Head to the Basra Waterfront Promenade for a relaxing morning by the sea.
  • Lunch at Al Aqar Restaurant, located near the waterfront.
  • Afternoon visit to the Tuba Park, a popular spot for picnics and family outings.
  • Dinner at Al Kareem Al Basrawi, known for its traditional Iraqi dishes.
  • Evening walk along the Basra Corniche for stunning sunset views over the Shatt al-Arab waterway.

Day 5: Day Trip to Umm Qasr Port

  • Early breakfast at your hotel.
  • Travel to Umm Qasr Port, about a 2-hour drive from Basra.
  • Visit the Umm Qasr Archeological Site, an ancient port city with a rich history.
  • Lunch at local eateries near Umm Qasr.
  • Return to Basra and spend the evening at leisure, perhaps exploring local markets like Al Muthana Souq.
  • Dinner at Al Warka Restaurant, famous for its grilled meats.

Day 6: Free Day & Shopping

  • Spend the day at your own pace, relaxing or revisiting favorite spots from earlier in the week.
  • Try new local foods at eateries you missed or return to favorites for a second helping.
  • Head to Al-Ammar Souq, one of Basra’s oldest markets, for souvenirs and traditional goods.
  • Dinner at Bait Al Khayat Restaurant, known for its Iraqi-Arabic cuisine and beautiful decor.

Day 7: Departure

  • Breakfast at your hotel.
  • Spend the morning at leisure, perhaps doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
  • Transfer to Basra International Airport for your departure. (Transportation Tip: Allow plenty of time for airport check-in and security procedures.)