Iraq 4 Day Itinerary

Iraq 4-Day Tourist Itinerary (Markdown Format)

Day 1: Exploring Ancient Babylon & Hillah

  • Morning: Start your day early by taking a taxi or renting a car and head towards the city of Hillah, located approximately 100 km south of Baghdad.
  • Hillah: Visit the Ibrahimi Mosque and the Imam Ali Shrine, two important religious sites for Shia Muslims.
  • Afternoon: Head to ancient Babylon. Explore the remains of this famous city, including the Ishtar Gate, the Processional Street, and the famous Hanging Gardens (reconstructed).
  • Evening: Return to Baghdad and relax at your accommodation. Consider trying local dishes like Masgouf (grilled fish) or Samesem (Iraqi soup).

Things to know:

  1. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should wear a headscarf.
  2. Be aware of current security situation and follow any local advice or instructions.
  3. Stay hydrated as temperatures can be high.

Day 2: Discovering Baghdad’s History

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum of Iraq. Here, you can learn about Iraq’s rich history from ancient times to modern day.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Karada Bridge, one of the oldest bridges in the world, and the Al-Mutanabbi Street, known for its bookshops.
  • Evening: Take a stroll along the Tigris River and enjoy local street food.

Day 3: Journey to Samarra

  • Morning: Travel by car or train to Samarra, about 125 km north of Baghdad.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Ashur Mosque, one of the holiest sites in Shia Islam. Admire its stunning blue dome and intricate tile work.
  • Evening: Explore the Ishtar Gate Museum to see replicas of Babylon’s famous gate and other artifacts.

Day 4: Erbil & The Citadel of Ashur

  • Morning: Fly or drive to Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan region (flights may require a separate ticket).
  • Afternoon: Visit the Citadel of Ashur, an archaeological site dating back to the 6th millennium BCE.
  • Evening: Wander through the Souq Ashwaq for shopping and try local Kurdish cuisine at one of the many restaurants.

Visa Requirements:

  1. Most nationalities need a visa to enter Iraq. Check with your embassy or consulate for details.
  2. Tourist visas are usually valid for 30 days.
  3. You may also need letters of invitation or proof of accommodation and funds.

Transportation:

  1. Taxis and private cars are common in cities, but driving can be challenging due to traffic and road conditions.
  2. Trains connect major cities like Baghdad and Samarra, though schedules can change.
  3. Flights operate between Baghdad and other major cities, including Erbil.