Erbil, Iraq 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring the City Center

  • Arrival at Erbil International Airport (Transportation: Taxis or pre-arranged airport transfer)
  • Check-in at The Hotel Erbil 5 Stars (Location: City Centre, Kawa Street)

Activities:

  1. Visit Citadel of Erbil - The oldest continuously inhabited city in the world. Entrance fee required.
  2. Explore the Bazaar of Erbil - A traditional market selling a variety of goods from spices to handicrafts. (Tip: Haggle for better prices!)
  3. Visit the Minister’s Palace and Erbi Art Gallery, showcasing Kurdish art and culture.

Food:

  1. Lunch at Akara Restaurant - Try traditional Kurdish dishes like Sorbara (stew) and Gözleme (flatbread with various fillings).
  2. Dinner at Dersim Kebab House - Delicious Turkish-Kurdish kebabs and fresh juices.

Things to Know:

  1. Erbil is generally safe, but it’s always good to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
  2. English is widely spoken, but knowing some basic Kurdish phrases can be helpful and appreciated.
  3. The official currency is the Iraqi Dinar. Credit cards are accepted in many places, but it’s wise to carry cash as well.
  4. The weather can be hot during the day, so remember to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Day 2: Lalish & Ethnic Groups

  • Transportation: Rent a car or hire a private driver/guide for the day.

Activities:

  1. Visit Lalish, the spiritual center of the Yazidis - It requires prior permission from the Yazidi community, but it’s a unique and enlightening experience.
  2. Explore Sinun Mountain, home to several ancient monasteries, including the Monastery of Mar Behnam.
  3. Stop by a Yazidi village (such as Bashiqa or Shekhan) to learn more about this ethnically diverse region.

Food:

  1. Lunch at Awan Restaurant, known for its delicious fish dishes and scenic views.
  2. Dinner at Dilshuk Kurdish Restaurant - Enjoy traditional Kurdish cuisine in a cozy, authentic setting.

Day 3: Relaxation & Local Life

Activities:

  1. Visit the Erbil Mall for shopping, movies, and a glimpse into modern Iraqi life.
  2. Relax at the Rabat Al-Nuhait Park - A peaceful green oasis in the city.
  3. Wander through the Ankawa neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife, churches, and scenic views of Erbil.
  4. Take a walk along the Ergal River.

Food:

  1. Lunch at Arin Restaurant in Ankawa - Offers a variety of dishes, including international cuisine.
  2. Dinner at Mesopotamia, an upscale restaurant with a beautiful terrace overlooking Erbil.

Day 4: Departure & Souvenirs

  • Transportation: Taxi or pre-arranged airport transfer to Erbil International Airport for your departure.

Activities:

  1. Last-minute shopping for souvenirs at the Bazaar of Erbil.
  2. Visit the Khaled Al-Rikabi Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the region.
  3. If time allows, visit the Golf Park Erbil - The first 18-hole golf course in Iraq.

Food:

  1. Lunch at a favorite spot from your previous days, or try somewhere new!

Title: 4-Day Erbil Itinerary: Exploring the Ancient and Modern Heart of Iraq

Day 1: Arrival and City Center Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Erbil International Airport. Check into your hotel, such as the luxury Rotana Hotel or the more budget-friendly Hotel Erbil.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Citadel of Erbil, an archaeological site dating back to 5000 BC. Explore the ruins and learn about the city’s rich history.
  • Evening: Stroll around the colorful Ancient City Bazaar for souvenirs, traditional Kurdish textiles, and delicious street food. Try local delicacies like Dolma (stuffed vine leaves) and Gözleme (Turkish cheese pastry).
  • Dinner: Dine at the upscale Kareem Restaurant, famous for its Kurdish cuisine and beautiful rooftop views of the city.

Day 2: Discover Erbil’s Cultural Landmarks

  • Morning: Visit the Erbil Museum to learn about the region’s history, from prehistoric times to the present day.
  • Afternoon: Explore the peaceful Dohuk Lake and enjoy a boat ride (subject to availability).
  • Evening: Relax at the Tel Karem Domiz Refugee Camp Museum, which provides insights into the lives of refugees and the ongoing conflict in the region.
  • Dinner: Taste traditional Iraqi cuisine at Al-Khansa Restaurant.

Day 3: Day Trip to Lalish and Slemani

  • Morning: Depart for Lalish, the spiritual center of the Yazidis, located about an hour’s drive away.
  • Afternoon: Head to Slemani (also known as Sulaimaniya) to explore Gali Ali Bag Forest Park and Kocho Mountain.
  • Evening: Return to Erbil and enjoy a quiet evening at your leisure.
  • Dinner: Dine at Sipak Restaurant for another taste of delicious Kurdish cuisine.

Day 4: Souvenir Shopping and Departure

  • Morning/Afternoon: Spend your last hours in Erbil shopping for souvenirs, visiting the Grand Mosque (Sultan Minaret), or relaxing at a café.
  • Late Afternoon: Transfer to Erbil International Airport for your departure.

Things to Know

  1. Erbil is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always best to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
  2. The official language is Kurdish, but many people also speak Arabic and English.
  3. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or public places to respect local customs.
  4. Tap water in Erbil is not safe to drink; bottled water is widely available.
  5. Credit cards are accepted at larger establishments, but it’s a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller shops and street vendors.
  6. The local currency is the Iraqi Dinar (IQD).
  7. Electricity in Erbil operates on 220V, so remember to pack a universal adapter if needed.
  8. Summer temperatures can be extremely hot, while winter can be quite cold, so pack accordingly.