Iraq 2 Day Itinerary

Iraq 2-Day Tourist Itinerary (Markdown Format)

Day 1: Exploring Ancient Wonders and Modern Capital

  1. Morning:

    • Baghdad: Start your day in the capital city of Iraq. Visit the National Museum of Iraq to gain insights into the rich history and culture of the country. Don’t miss the famous Lamassu Lions and the Royal Tombs of Sumerian Kings.
    • Al-Khulafa’ al-Rashidun Mosque: Also known as the “Golden Dome,” it’s one of the largest mosques in the world and a significant Islamic landmark.

  2. Afternoon:

    • Transportation: Travel to Samawah, a city located 230 km south of Baghdad, by hire car or organized tour. The journey takes around 4 hours.
    • Ahwar of Southern Iraq (Marshlands): Spend the afternoon exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a boat ride through these unique wetlands and learn about their ecological importance.

  3. Evening:

    • Dinner: Taste local dishes such as Masgouf (grilled carp), KabSah (barbecued meat dish) and Shakarat (traditional Iraqi tea) at a local restaurant in Samawah.

Day 2: Discovering Ancient Civilizations

  1. Morning:

    • Transportation: Travel to Nasiriyah, approximately 75 km north of Samawah, by hire car or organized tour (around a 2-hour drive).
    • Tel Aswad: Visit this archaeological site, believed to be the ancient city of Ur. Explore the Royal Cemetery of Ur and see the famous ziggurat.

  2. Afternoon:

    • Transportation: Travel to Nasiriyah Archaeological Museum to learn more about the region’s history.
    • Abu Gharbya: Head to this nearby archaeological site, home to a Sumerian temple and several important artifacts from the ancient civilizations of Ur III and the Elamites.

  3. Evening:

    • Return to Baghdad for your departure or continue exploring Iraq at your leisure.

Things to Know Before You Go:

  1. Visa: Check the latest visa requirements as they may have changed. Most tourists will need a visa to enter Iraq.
  2. Safety: While the situation in Iraq has improved in recent years, it’s still important to exercise caution and check travel advisories before your trip.
  3. Currency: The official currency of Iraq is the Iraqi Dinar (IQD). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it’s a good idea to have cash on hand.
  4. Language: The official language is Arabic, although Kurdish and other dialects are spoken in some areas. English is less commonly spoken.
  5. Etiquette: Iraqi culture values hospitality, modesty, and respect for elders. Dress conservatively and behave respectfully when visiting religious sites or interacting with locals.
  6. Health: Check travel health advice before your trip and ensure you have appropriate vaccinations and travel insurance.