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Discovering the Rich History of Iraq

Viewed by 326 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Baghdad

Baghdad, Iraq

8:00AM

Visit the National Museum of Iraq

Immerse yourself in Iraq's rich history with artifacts dating back to ancient Mesopotamia.
Take a taxi from your accommodation to the museum. It takes about 20 minutes.
5 USD, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Al-Mustansiriya School

Wander through the stunning architecture of this historic university, once a center of learning in the Islamic world.
Walk from the museum to the school, it's just a 10-minute stroll.
Free entry, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Al-Mansour Restaurant

Savor traditional Iraqi cuisine in a cozy setting.
Take a taxi to the restaurant, approximately 15 minutes away.
15 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Stroll through Zawra Park

Relax in the green oasis of Baghdad, offering a peaceful escape from the city buzz.
A short taxi ride from the restaurant, around 10 minutes.
2 USD, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bab Al-Mansour

Enjoy a delightful dinner while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Baghdad at night.
Take a taxi to the restaurant for a 15-minute ride.
20 USD, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Baghdad

Day 2: Historical Sites of Baghdad

Baghdad, Iraq

8:00AM

Visit the Al-Shaheed Monument

Pay homage to the martyrs of Iraq and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the monument.
Take a taxi to the monument, around 30 minutes away.
3 USD, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Abbasid Palace

Step back in time at this ancient palace showcasing the grandeur of the Abbasid Caliphate.
A short taxi ride from the monument, approximately 10 minutes.
5 USD, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Al-Sa'a Restaurant

Indulge in flavorful Iraqi dishes at this local favorite.
Take a taxi to the restaurant, about 15 minutes away.
12 USD, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Shrine of Imam Musa Al-Kadhim

Explore the sacred site dedicated to the seventh Shia Imam, known for its intricate architecture.
Take a taxi to the shrine, around 20 minutes.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Al-Mansour Mall

Browse through a variety of shops and boutiques for souvenirs and local products.
A short taxi ride from the shrine, approximately 10 minutes.
Varies, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Beit Al-Baghdadi Restaurant

Experience fine dining with a blend of Iraqi and Middle Eastern flavors in a charming setting.
Take a taxi to the restaurant, about 15 minutes away.
25 USD, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Baghdad

Day 3: Cultural Delights of Baghdad

Baghdad, Iraq

9:00AM

Explore the Gold Souk

Witness the glittering display of gold and jewelry in this traditional market.
Take a taxi to the souk, around 20 minutes away.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Great Mosque of Al-Kadhimiya

Discover the spiritual significance of this revered mosque and its stunning architecture.
A short taxi ride from the souk, approximately 15 minutes.
Free entry, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Abu Nuwas Restaurant

Enjoy a meal by the Tigris River, known for its delicious seafood dishes.
Take a taxi to the restaurant, about 10 minutes away.
18 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Book Street of Mutanabbi

Stroll through this bustling street filled with bookstores and cafes, a cultural hub of Baghdad.
A short taxi ride from the restaurant, around 15 minutes.
Free entry, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Al-Sultan Ibrahim

Indulge in authentic Iraqi cuisine with a modern twist at this popular restaurant.
Take a taxi to the restaurant, approximately 20 minutes away.
22 USD, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Baghdad

Day 4: Journey to Babylon

Babylon, Iraq

9:00AM

Explore the Ruins of Babylon

Step back in time at the ancient city of Babylon, home to the famous Ishtar Gate and Hanging Gardens.
Travel by private car from Baghdad to Babylon, approximately 2 hours.
10 USD, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Babylon Oasis Restaurant

Enjoy a meal overlooking the Euphrates River, offering a serene dining experience.
Walk to the nearby restaurant, just a 5-minute stroll.
15 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Babylon Museum

Explore artifacts and exhibits showcasing the history of Babylon and Mesopotamia.
Walk to the museum, located within the site, around 10 minutes.
5 USD, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Babylon Gardens Restaurant

Dine amidst lush gardens and enjoy traditional Iraqi dishes with a modern twist.
Walk to the restaurant for a 10-minute stroll.
20 USD, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Babylon

Day 5: Sacred Sites of Najaf

Najaf, Iraq

8:00AM

Visit the Imam Ali Holy Shrine

Pay respects at the resting place of Imam Ali, a revered figure in Shia Islam, and admire the intricate architecture of the shrine.
Travel by private car from Babylon to Najaf, approximately 3 hours.
Free entry, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Wadi Al-Salam Cemetery

Walk through one of the largest cemeteries in the world and learn about its historical significance.
A short taxi ride from the shrine, around 15 minutes.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Al-Najaf Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Iraqi cuisine at this local eatery known for its flavorful dishes.
Take a taxi to the restaurant, about 10 minutes away.
10 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Khan Al-Nakheel Bazaar

Explore the bustling market filled with local crafts and goods, ideal for souvenir shopping.
A short walk from the restaurant, just 5 minutes away.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Al-Khafeef Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious dinner with a mix of Iraqi and Middle Eastern flavors in a cozy setting.
Walk to the restaurant for a 10-minute stroll.
15 USD, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Najaf

Day 6: Pilgrimage to Karbala

Karbala, Iraq

8:00AM

Visit the Shrine of Imam Hussain

Embark on a spiritual journey at the revered shrine of Imam Hussain, a significant pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims.
Travel by private car from Najaf to Karbala, approximately 1 hour.
Free entry, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Al-Abbas Holy Shrine

Discover the grandeur of the shrine dedicated to Abbas ibn Ali, showcasing stunning architecture and religious significance.
A short walk from the Imam Hussain Shrine, just 5 minutes away.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Al-Mansour Palace Restaurant

Enjoy a meal fit for royalty at this elegant restaurant known for its hospitality and delicious cuisine.
Walk to the restaurant, just a 10-minute stroll from the shrine.
20 USD, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Museum of Imam Hussain

Explore exhibits and artifacts related to the life of Imam Hussain and the history of Karbala.
A short taxi ride from the restaurant, around 10 minutes.
5 USD, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Al-Nakheel Garden Restaurant

Relax in the peaceful garden setting and enjoy a delightful dinner with a variety of Iraqi dishes.
Walk to the restaurant, approximately 15 minutes away.
18 USD, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Karbala

Day 7: Exploring Erbil

Erbil, Iraq

9:00AM

Visit the Erbil Citadel

Explore the ancient citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Travel by private car from Karbala to Erbil, approximately 4 hours.
10 USD, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Qaysari Bazaar

Dine at the bustling bazaar offering a variety of local dishes and unique souvenirs.
Walk to the bazaar, just a 5-minute stroll from the citadel.
Varies, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Kurdish Textile Museum

Learn about the rich textile traditions of the Kurdish people through exhibits and demonstrations.
A short walk from the bazaar, around 10 minutes.
3 USD, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Sami Abdul Rahman Park

Relax in the green surroundings of the park, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
Take a taxi to the park, approximately 15 minutes away.
2 USD, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Shanidar Park Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful dinner in the park setting, offering a mix of Kurdish and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Walk to the restaurant, just a 5-minute stroll from the park.
22 USD, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Erbil
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More About Iraq

10-day trip to Karbala and Najaf, Iraq
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