Hello, friends! I’m Layla Al-Hassan, a proud local from Baghdad, and I’m delighted to share with you some of my favorite itineraries for experiencing the best of Iraq. Over the years, I’ve discovered that each Historical Sites to Visit in Iraq inside my beautiful country has its own story to tell—from the bustling streets of Baghdad to the ancient wonders scattered throughout the land. Below, I’ve put together three itineraries that I personally recommend for anyone planning a tour in Iraq. Whether you have just a few days or a full week to explore, there’s something here for every curious traveler.
Note: While I’m not an official travel agency, my itineraries are based on my experiences and tips I’ve gathered over time. Think of these as my personal Iraq travel packages that aim to provide an authentic glimpse into the heart of our country.
5-Day Tour in Iraq – Classic + Samarra
If you’re looking for a compact introduction to Iraq, this 5-day itinerary is perfect. It combines the rich history of Baghdad with some of our most iconic ancient sites.
Daily Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Baghdad
- Morning Arrival: You should always start your tours with a warm welcome at the airport.
- Baghdad City Tour: Spend your day exploring the modern and historical layers of Baghdad. I love walking through the old neighborhoods and bustling markets—it truly sets the stage for what’s to come.
Day 2: Journey to Ancient Wonders
- Babylon: From Baghdad, head out to the ancient city of Babylon. Walking among its ruins is like stepping back in time.
- Ziggurat of Borsippa: A short drive from Babylon, this lesser-known site is a hidden gem I highly recommend.
- Karbala: End your day with a visit to Karbala, a city filled with spiritual significance and fascinating stories.
Day 3: Sacred Heritage
- Karbala: Continue your exploration here with visits to some of the sacred sites that define the city.
- Ezekial’s Tomb in Al Kifl: A poignant stop that always leaves me in awe of our ancient heritage.
- Najaf: Conclude your day in Najaf, another city rich in spiritual tradition before heading back to Baghdad.
Day 4: Discovering Samarra
- Samarra: Take a day trip to Samarra to see the magnificent Ziggurat of Aqarquf. I always feel a deep connection with history when I’m here.
- Return to Baghdad: Reflect on your journey as you head back to the vibrant energy of our capital.
Day 5: Departure from Baghdad
- Departure: Enjoy a smooth transfer to the airport as you say goodbye to Iraq—until next time!
This 5-day tour in Iraq offers a well-rounded glimpse into both the ancient and modern aspects of our country. It’s an ideal itinerary for those who want to experience the essence of Iraq in a short period.
Map:
7-Day Tour in Iraq – Classic + Nasiriyah + Samarra
For those with a bit more time, I’ve designed a 7-day itinerary that deepens your exploration of our cultural and historical treasures. This itinerary is one of my favorites among Iraq tours.
Day 1: Welcome to Baghdad
- Begin your journey with a warm arrival in Baghdad, followed by a full-day city tour. I always encourage visitors to immerse themselves in the local atmosphere right from the start.
Day 2: Ancient Cities & Fortresses
- Babylon & Al-Ukhaidir Fortress: Explore the timeless ruins of Babylon and marvel at the mysterious fortress of Al-Ukhaidir.
- Karbala: End the day with a reflective visit to Karbala.
Day 3: Spiritual Journeys
- Karbala & Ezekial’s Tomb in Al Kifl: Experience the spiritual ambiance that makes Karbala so unique.
- Najaf: Spend the afternoon soaking in the sacred vibes of Najaf.
Day 4: Mesopotamian Marvels
- Great Ziggurat of Ur in Nasiriyah: Travel to Nasiriyah to witness the grandeur of the Great Ziggurat. It’s a sight that never fails to move me.
Day 5: Nature and History Combined
- Mesopotamian Marshes & Al-Multaqa in Basra: Experience the natural beauty of the marshes and the cultural richness of Basra.
Day 6: Revisiting Samarra
- Enjoy another day trip to Samarra to see the iconic Ziggurat of Aqarquf, then return to Baghdad.
Day 7: Departure
- Conclude your journey with a private transfer to the airport. You’ll leave with unforgettable memories of this dynamic land.
This 7-day tour in Iraq is perfect for travelers who wish to delve deeper into our history and culture, offering a balanced mix of ancient sites, spiritual journeys, and natural wonders.
10-Day Tour in Iraq – The Ultimate Journey
For the truly adventurous, this 10-day itinerary is the ultimate exploration of Iraq. It covers a wide range of destinations, ensuring that you experience the full spectrum of what our country has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival in Baghdad
- Kick off your adventure in Baghdad with a warm welcome and an immersive city tour.
Day 2: From Baghdad to Samarra and Beyond
- Samarra: Visit the stunning Ziggurat of Aqarquf.
- Hatra & Mosul: Continue to explore the ancient marvels in Hatra and Mosul.
Day 3: A Day in Mosul and Erbil
- Mosul: Spend your morning exploring key historical sites.
- Mar Mattai Monastery: Discover this peaceful sanctuary.
- Erbil: Enjoy an afternoon visit to the vibrant city of Erbil.
Day 4: Exploring Erbil
- Take a morning city tour of Erbil before returning to Baghdad, reflecting on the contrasts between ancient and modern life.
Day 5: The Wonders of Babylon
- Babylon & Al-Ukhaidir Fortress: Discover these iconic sites, followed by an enlightening visit to Karbala.
Day 6: Spiritual Depths
- Karbala & Najaf: Visit sacred sites such as Ezekial’s Tomb in Al Kifl and explore the spiritual depths of Najaf.
Day 7: The Great Ziggurat and Nasiriyah
- Travel to Nasiriyah to see the awe-inspiring Great Ziggurat of Ur.
Day 8: Marshes and Basra
- Explore the mesmerizing Mesopotamian Marshes and visit Al-Qurnah and Al-Multaqa in Basra.
Day 9: Journey Back to Baghdad
- Return to Baghdad, taking in the diverse landscapes along the way.
Day 10: Farewell
- Conclude your ultimate Iraq tour with a private transfer to the airport, leaving with memories that will last a lifetime.
This 10-day tour in Iraq is designed for travelers who want to experience every facet of our rich heritage—from bustling modern cities to serene ancient ruins. It’s a comprehensive journey that showcases the best of tours in Iraq.
Final Thoughts
I hope these itineraries inspire you to explore my beloved Iraq. Each journey is a reflection of my personal experiences, and I’ve woven in tips and local insights to help you truly connect with our culture and history. Whether you choose the 5-day, 7-day, or 10-day tour, you’re in for an adventure that’s as educational as it is transformative.
Thank you for letting me share my world with you. Safe travels, and I look forward to hearing about your own Iraq Travel stories!
Iraq Travel Tales 