Iraq Hotels

Iraq is a treasure trove of history and culture, making it a one-of-a-kind travel destination. The lively capital, Baghdad, is rich in historical importance, while Karbala and Najaf are key spiritual hubs, featuring the sacred shrines of Karbala and the impressive cemetery in Najaf. The ancient Ziggurat of Ur and the unique Mesopotamian Marshes showcase Iraq's varied heritage, and the famous Hanging Gardens of Babylon remind us of its glorious past. Travelers often rave about the incredible hospitality of the Iraqi people, sharing stories of friendly cultural exchanges, mouthwatering food, and unforgettable experiences like thrilling taxi rides and warm gestures, especially in the lively cities of Najaf and Karbala.

Things To Know Before Going To Iraq

• Most travelers can obtain a visa on arrival at Baghdad International Airport. This visa allows access to federal Iraq but is not valid for the Kurdistan region, which requires a separate visa.
• Cash is essential, as ATMs may not accept foreign cards. Bring sufficient cash for your stay, as many places do not accept credit cards.
• Ensure your travel insurance covers Iraq, as many standard policies do not. IATI Insurance is recommended for travelers to Iraq.
• While Iraq has a reputation for being dangerous, many travelers report positive experiences.
• Solo female travelers have reported feeling safe, especially when dressed modestly.
• Expect to encounter numerous military checkpoints throughout your travels. These are primarily for security purposes.
• Dress modestly, particularly for women, who should consider wearing a headscarf.
• Purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival can help with navigation and communication. Expect to pay around $12 for 10GB of data.
• Most tourist sites close by 3 PM, so plan your visits accordingly.
• Markets and local life come alive in the evenings.
• Be aware of the weather, as sandstorms can disrupt travel plans. Having a flexible itinerary can help accommodate unexpected delays.

Where is Iraq?

Iraq is located in West Asia, specifically in the geopolitical region known as the Middle East. The country is bordered by:

• Turkey to the north
• Iran to the east
• Saudi Arabia to the south
• Jordan to the southwest
• Syria to the west

What is the Capital of Iraq?

The capital of Iraq is Baghdad. It is located on the Tigris River and has been a significant cultural and political center throughout its history. Today, it remains the largest city in Iraq and plays a crucial role in the country's governance and economy.

Is Iraq Expensive To Visit?

Iraq is an ideally affordable destination for travelers, but costs can vary depending on the region and your travel style.

Hotel rooms typically start at $20-30 per person for double occupancy. Asking locals for recommendations can help find more affordable options. Meals costs around $6 per person. Eating local dishes like kebabs and shawarma can keep costs down. Local transportation costs around 2,000-3,000 IQD ($1.50-2.30 USD) for most journeys. Tours can be quite expensive, ranging from $200-500 per day, so independent travel is much cheaper.

One traveler reported spending a total of $920 over three weeks in Iraq, excluding flights and visa, which works out to $44 per day. They used public transport and stayed in mid-range hotels.

What Currency Does Iraq Use?

The official currency of Iraq is the Iraqi Dinar, abbreviated as IQD. The currency symbol for the dinar is د.ع. As of recent exchange rates, 1 US dollar is approximately equal to 1,500 Iraqi dinars.

Is Going To Iraq Worth It?

Traveling to Iraq can be a fulfilling adventure, but it is essential to plan ahead and stay informed about the current security situation. Some areas are not safe and should be avoided, while the Northern Region in the north is typically more secure and welcoming to visitors. Travelers should expect military checkpoints and may find that English is not widely spoken outside of major urban centers.

Is Iraq Good For A Honeymoon?

While Iraq may not be a typical choice for a honeymoon, it offers a unique and memorable experience for adventurous couples. The northern region of Iraqi Kurdistan, known for its safety and stability, presents a more viable option. With its picturesque village of Amadiya, perched atop a mountain with over 5,000 years of history, and the stunning natural beauty of the Bekhal and Geli Ali Beg waterfalls, Kurdistan provides a romantic setting like no other.

Is Iraq Safe to Visit?

Traveling to Iraq comes with significant safety concerns, and most government advisories and travel experts recommend approaching the idea with caution.

Many countries, such as Canada and the UK, advise against all travel to Iraq due to the volatile security situation, including the high risk of terrorism, kidnappings, and violence against foreigners. The threat of terrorism is persistent, with frequent attacks on public places, particularly targeting Western foreigners. While Iraqi Kurdistan is generally considered safer and more stable, regions in federal Iraq, especially southern areas and those with a history of ISIS presence like Mosul, are deemed much riskier.

Best Cities in Iraq 

Here’s your fast Iraq city guide depending on where city you are planning to visit:

Must-See Iraq Attractions

• Al-Mutanabbi Street, Baghdad: Known as "book street," this lively area features a modest market selling international books alongside juice shops and tea houses.
• The Ruins of Mosul: Once devastated by conflict, Mosul is now experiencing a rebirth with open markets and reconstruction efforts, including the famous leaning mosque.
• The Fairytale Panorama of Akre: This picturesque town, perched on a hillside, offers stunning views and charming mosques that seem straight out of a storybook.
• Iraqi Marshes: Staying overnight in traditional reed huts in the marshes provides a unique cultural experience while supporting the preservation of the Marsh Arabs' way of life.
• Imam Hussein’s Shrine, Karbala: A breathtaking site adorned with mirrors and jewels, this shrine is a significant pilgrimage destination for Shia Muslims.
• The Streets of Babylon: Although not as grand as other sites, Babylon's historical significance, including its ancient walls and the legendary Garden of Babylon, makes it a must-visit.
• The Great Ziggurat of Ur: Dating back nearly 4,000 years, this ancient ziggurat is one of the oldest and best-preserved structures of its kind in the world.
• The Spiraling Minaret of Samarra: This unique minaret, known for its distinct spiral shape, is a remote yet captivating site north of Baghdad.
• The Barefoot City of Lalish: The holiest site for the Yazidi people, this small town requires visitors to explore barefoot, offering a distinctive cultural experience.
• Mesa of Amedi: Renowned for its stunning views, this town is considered one of the most photogenic spots in Iraq.
• Curl of Dore Canyon: This impressive canyon vista, reminiscent of Arizona's Horseshoe Bend, offers breathtaking views with fewer crowds.
• Shanidar Cave: An archaeological treasure, this cave contains remains dating back 65,000-35,000 years, believed to be one of the oldest burial sites.
• Gomi Felaw: This mountain range, known for its snowy peaks that last into summer, provides scenic views and is ideal for day trips.

The Best Time To Visit Iraq

From late May to early September, Iraq experiences extremely hot and dry weather, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. During this period, the cooler mountains in the north and east provide a welcome escape. The months from November to February are cooler, featuring rain and occasional snowfall, particularly in the mountains of Iraqi Kurdistan. Therefore, autumn and spring are the ideal seasons to visit Iraq. Late September to October presents perfect conditions for sightseeing, while March, April, and early May showcase beautiful wildflowers and the celebration of Nowruz, marking the spring equinox and Persian New Year, with festivities and picnics in the mountains across the region.

Languages Spoken in Iraq

Iraq is a linguistically diverse country with several languages spoken by different communities. The most widely spoken language is Mesopotamian Arabic, a variant of Arabic influenced by Turkish, Persian, and Aramaic, serving as the primary language. Kurdish is also an official language, primarily spoken in the northern regions, particularly in Iraqi Kurdistan, with Sorani and Kurmanji as its main dialects.

Time Zone of Iraq

Iraq is in the Arabian Standard Time Zone (AST), which is UTC+3. The country does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so the time remains consistent throughout the year.