Day 1: Arrive in Baghdad
Your adventure starts in Baghdad, Iraq’s vibrant capital. This city has a rich history and an energetic atmosphere. After checking into your hotel, take the rest of the day to acclimate and stroll around. Explore the famous Mutanabbi Street, a haven for book enthusiasts. Grab some coffee or tea in one of the nearby cafés and enjoy some people-watching.
Day 2: Baghdad City Tour
Today, dive into Baghdad’s key attractions. Start with a visit to the Iraqi Museum to see amazing artifacts from ancient Mesopotamia. Then, head to Al-Shaheed Monument, which honors the soldiers who fell in the Iran-Iraq War. Finish up with the Abbasid Palace, a beautiful throwback to medieval Islamic architecture.
Day 3: Babylon & Karbala
Leaving Baghdad, take a day trip to Babylon. Walk through the ruins and picture life in this ancient kingdom, once ruled by King Nebuchadnezzar. Then head to Karbala, a key religious city for Shia Muslims. Visit the Imam Husayn Shrine, a spiritual and historical landmark. Return to Baghdad by evening.
Day 4: Samarra
Today, take a day trip to Samarra, famous for its iconic spiral minaret at the Great Mosque of Samarra. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers incredible views and is a photographer’s dream. In the afternoon, visit the Al-Askari Shrine, one of the holiest sites in Shia Islam. Return to Baghdad for the night.
Day 5: Najaf & Kufa
Head south to Najaf, a holy city in Islam. The Imam Ali Shrine here is stunning, displaying incredible gold and intricate designs. After exploring, make a quick stop in the nearby town of Kufa, known for its Great Mosque, before continuing to your next stop: the city of Nasiriyah.
Day 6: Nasiriyah & The Marshes
In Nasiriyah, visit the Ziggurat of Ur, an ancient temple dating back over 4,000 years. This archeological marvel gives a window into Mesopotamian history. In the afternoon, take a trip to the Mesopotamian Marshes to see the unique wetlands and meet local marsh Arabs who still live in traditional reed houses.
Day 7: Basra
Make your way to Basra, Iraq’s port city. Stroll along the Shatt al-Arab riverbank and soak up the area’s unique vibe. Don’t miss the Basra Museum, which houses artifacts from the ancient kingdoms of Sumer and Babylon. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride along the canals that have earned Basra the nickname “Venice of the East.”
Day 8: Basra – Day of Relaxation
After a busy first week, take today to relax. Enjoy some quiet time at your hotel or visit a local café to enjoy some traditional Iraqi food. If you’re in the mood for more exploration, take a walk through Ashar Market, where you can buy local handicrafts. It’s a great spot for some downtime.
Day 9: Return to Baghdad
It’s time to head back to Baghdad for the second leg of your journey. You can take one of the domestic flights or drive back, which offers a scenic view of the changing landscapes of southern Iraq. Once you arrive, spend the afternoon exploring any spots in the capital you may have missed. Alternatively, take the day to rest and recharge.
Day 10: Erbil Exploration
Fly or drive up to Erbil in the Kurdistan region. Start your exploration with a visit to the ancient Erbil Citadel, towering over the city. It’s considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Take some time to wander around the bazaar below and enjoy traditional Kurdish food like kebabs and dolma.
Day 11: Around Erbil (Lalish & Gali Ali Beg)
From Erbil, take a day trip to visit Lalish, the spiritual heart of the Yazidi religion. The temple here is sacred and must be experienced in person to be appreciated. Afterward, visit the breathtaking Gali Ali Beg waterfalls, a perfect place for some gorgeous nature shots. Head back to Erbil and relax for the night.
Day 12: Sulaymaniyah
Today, head to Sulaymaniyah, a cultural hub in the Kurdistan region. Visit the Amna Suraka Museum, which memorializes the victims of Saddam Hussein’s regime. Spend some time walking around Azadi Park, one of the city’s green spaces, or take in the atmosphere at a local café before calling it a day.
Day 13: Halabja
Take a day trip to Halabja, which is a powerful and moving experience. The town is known for the tragic chemical attack during the Iran-Iraq War. The Halabja Memorial Museum documents the horrors and respects the memory of the victims. On the way back to Sulaymaniyah, stop by nearby Ahmed Awa waterfall to reflect and recharge.
Day 14: Back to Baghdad & Departure
It’s time to head back to Baghdad for your departure. If you have time before your flight, visit Al-Zawraa Park for a final walk through one of the city’s main green spaces. You can also buy some last-minute souvenirs. It’s a quiet way to wrap up a trip full of history, culture, and memorable experiences.
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