Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

14-Day Road Trip Itinerary through Karbala and Surroundings

Viewed by 1.3K travelers

Day 1: Arrival in Baghdad

Baghdad, Iraq

9:00AM

Breakfast at Al-Mansour Restaurant

Start your day with a delicious breakfast of traditional Iraqi dishes such as scrambled eggs with tomatoes and fresh bread.
Located near the Tigris River, easy to reach.
USD10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the National Museum of Iraq

Explore the rich history of Iraq's ancient Mesopotamian civilization.
A short drive from the restaurant, approximately 15 minutes.
USD5, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Al-Baghdadi Restaurant

Enjoy a variety of grilled meats and local dishes in a traditional setting.
Just a 10-minute drive from the museum.
USD15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Al-Mutanabbi Street

Wander through this famous book street and immerse yourself in the local culture.
About 15 minutes from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sajil Restaurant

Savour an array of traditional Iraqi dishes, particularly their kebabs.
Approximately 10 minutes from Al-Mutanabbi.
USD12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Baghdad

Day 2: Journey to Karbala

Karbala, Iraq

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hotel breakfast to fuel your trip ahead.
Breakfast will be served at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Drive to Karbala

Embark on a scenic drive to Karbala, famous for its historical significance.
A straightforward 2-hour drive.
Fuel Cost Approx USD5, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Al-Karbala Restaurant

Taste delightful dishes while overlooking the beautiful cityscape.
Located near the main shrine.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Imam Hussein Shrine

Experience the serene atmosphere of one of the holiest sites in Shia Islam.
A short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Al-Mashtal Restaurant

Indulge in traditional Iraqi meals in a local setting.
Located about 10 minutes from the shrine.
USD12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Karbala

Day 3: Exploration of Najaf

Najaf, Iraq

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savour a traditional breakfast available at your hotel.
Included in the stay.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Najaf

Set out for the city of Najaf, noted for its religious significance.
A one-hour drive from Karbala.
Fuel Cost Approx USD5, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Imam Ali Shrine

Discover the grand architecture and spiritual aura of this holy site.
Located centrally in Najaf.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Al-Sadr Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Iraqi meal with local flavours.
A 15-minute walk from the shrine.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Tour the Wadi-us-Salaam Cemetery

Explore one of the largest cemeteries in the world, rich in history.
A short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Al-Hamza Restaurant

Delight in local cuisine including sumptuous grilled dishes.
15-minute drive from the cemetery.
USD12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Najaf

Day 4: Cultural Experiences

Karbala, Iraq

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Replenish with a hearty breakfast provided by the hotel.
Included in your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Al-Askari Shrine

Take a moment to appreciate the stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.
A short drive from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit local markets

Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Karbala's vibrant markets.
A walk from the shrine.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Bab Al-Jibb Restaurant

Taste fresh local dishes with a contemporary twist.
Just around the corner from the markets.
USD10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Attend a cultural show

Experience traditional Iraqi music and dance performances.
Check local listings for venues.
USD5, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Zainab Restaurant

Savour local dishes within an inviting atmosphere.
Located 10 minutes from the cultural centre.
USD12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Karbala

Day 5: Histories of Babylon

Al-Hillah, Iraq

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
Included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Al-Hillah

Travel to Al-Hillah, the gateway to ancient Babylon.
A pleasant one-hour drive from Karbala.
Fuel Cost Approx USD5, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Ruins of Babylon

Explore the remnants of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Easily accessible once in Al-Hillah.
USD5, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Al-Babylon Restaurant

Experience local favourites amidst a historical backdrop.
Located near the ruins.
USD10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Ishtar Gate

Admire the beautifully reconstructed entrance to Babylon.
A short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Qasr Al-Hillah Restaurant

Enjoy a diverse array of dishes perfect for a family meal.
Approx 15-minute drive from Ishtar Gate.
USD12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Al-Hillah

Day 6: History and Culture

Babylon, Iraq

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel.
Included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Tour of Babylon Museum

Discover artefacts from ancient times and learn about Babylonian history.
A quick drive from your hotel.
USD5, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit local Workshops

Witness traditional crafts being made by local artisans.
Around a 20-minute drive away.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Al-Murjan Restaurant

Relish local dishes while enjoying views of the countryside.
Nearby the workshops.
USD12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore ancient walls of Babylon

Stroll around the ancient ruins and reflect on their history.
Less than 10 minutes by car.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Babylon Grand Restaurant

Sample a variety of dishes with a modern twist.
Close to the ancient walls.
USD15, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Babylon

Day 7: Kufa and Its Significance

Kufa, Iraq

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before you head out exploring the city.
Included at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Kufa

Venture into the city of Kufa, a site rich in Islamic history.
A one-hour drive from Babylon.
Fuel Cost Approx USD5, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Kufa Mosque

Marvel at one of the oldest mosques in the world and its intricate architecture.
Central location in Kufa.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Al-Ameen Restaurant

Enjoy local specialities in a cosy atmosphere.
A 10-minute drive from the mosque.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the House of Al-Khwarizmi

Delve into the history of this famed mathematician's home.
Located nearby in Kufa.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Dinner at Al-Najaf Restaurant

Sample more of the local cuisine, known for its rich flavours.
A quick drive from the House.
USD15, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Kufa

Day 8: Day Trip to Al-Qadisiyyah

Al-Qadisiyyah, Iraq

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for the day with breakfast provided by your hotel.
Included at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Al-Qadisiyyah

Set off for Al-Qadisiyyah, a site of historical battles.
Around a one-hour drive from Kufa.
Fuel Cost Approx USD5, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Qadisiyyah Historical Park

Explore the extensive ruins and monuments marking cultural significance.
Easily accessible from the town centre.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Al-Qadisiyyah Restaurant

Enjoy meals filled with local spices and herbs.
Short drive from the park.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Cultural Tour

Discover the important historical figures and events through guided tours.
Arranged locally within the park.
USD5, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Local Diner

Finish your day with comfort food to reflect on your adventures.
A casual eatery nearby.
USD12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Al-Qadisiyyah

Day 9: Exploring Amara

Amara, Iraq

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before driving to Amara.
Included in your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Amara

Take an interesting drive through rural landscapes to the city of Amara.
Just over an hour from Al-Qadisiyyah.
Fuel Cost Approx USD5, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Al-Qasim Mosque

Marvel at the stunning architecture of this local mosque.
Central location in Amara.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Al-Shamil Restaurant

Feast on authentic dishes from the region.
Just a short drive away.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Al-Ashar Park

Take a stroll through the park enjoying the natural beauty.
Less than 5-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Dinner at Al-Nour Restaurant

End the day with local dishes surrounded by scenic views.
Nearby the park.
USD10, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Amara

Day 10: A Day in Basra

Basra, Iraq

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Prepare for the day with breakfast at your hotel.
Included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Basra

Travel to the vibrant city of Basra known for its port.
About a 2-hour drive from Amara.
Fuel Cost Approx USD10, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Basra Museum

Explore artefacts illuminating the history of Basra and its significance.
Located near the city centre.
USD5, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Al-Sudani Restaurant

Sample a mix of traditional and modern Iraqi dishes.
Nearby the museum.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Al-Qurna

Visit the point where the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers converge.
A short drive away.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Al-Refa'i Restaurant

Enjoy a lovely dinner with local seafood specialties.
Near Al-Qurna.
USD12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Basra

Day 11: History in Nasiriyah

Nasiriyah, Iraq

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.
Included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Nasiriyah

Travel towards Nasiriyah, rich in archaeological sites.
A straightforward 2-hour drive from Basra.
Fuel Cost Approx USD10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Ziggurat of Ur

Explore one of the best-preserved ziggurats, dating back to antiquity.
Easily reachable from the main road.
USD5, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ur Restaurant

Enjoy traditional cuisine with a view of the ancient ziggurat.
Located nearby.
USD10, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Museum of Nasiriyah

Delve into history through artefacts and exhibitions.
A short drive from the restaurant.
USD5, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Al-Furat Restaurant

End your day with a delightful dinner featuring local flavours.
Located near the museum.
USD12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nasiriyah

Day 12: Journey to Samarra

Samarra, Iraq

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have breakfast and prepare for another day of exploration.
Included in your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Samarra

Travel to Samarra, known for its rich Islamic architecture.
A drive of about 2 hours from Nasiriyah.
Fuel Cost Approx USD10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Great Mosque of Samarra

Explore the stunning spiral minaret, a hallmark of Islamic architecture.
Easily accessible in the city.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Al-Mahjar Restaurant

Enjoy local dishes in a spacious dining setting.
Close to the mosque.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the ruins of Samarra

Wander through the historical remnants and learn about its past.
A very short drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Al-Noor Restaurant

Sample a variety of delicious local and regional dishes.
Near the ruins.
USD12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Samarra

Day 13: Historical Visit to Mosul

Mosul, Iraq

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Kickstart your day with breakfast at your hotel.
Included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Mosul

Prepare for an enriching drive to the historical city of Mosul.
A scenic drive that will take around 3 hours.
Fuel Cost Approx USD15, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Al-Mosul Restaurant

Savour a blend of traditional food from this historic region.
In the heart of Mosul.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Great Mosque of al-Nuri

Explore the reconstructed mosque and its unique architecture.
Just around the corner from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Mosul's Old City

Wander through ancient streets and experience local life.
Located in the vicinity of the mosque.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Al-Zahra Restaurant

Enjoy local dishes reflecting Mosul's diverse cultural influences.
Within walking distance of the Old City.
USD10, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Mosul

Day 14: Return to Baghdad

Baghdad, Iraq

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast to wrap up your journey.
Included with your stay.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive back to Baghdad

Make the return journey to Baghdad and reflect on your travels.
A 4-hour drive from Mosul.
Fuel Cost Approx USD15, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Al-Najaf Restaurant in Baghdad

Finish your journey with a delicious meal in the city you started in.
Located in the city centre.
USD10, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Baghdad Tower

Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
A drive of about 20 minutes.
USD5, 1 hour

5:30PM

Final Dinner at Al-Mashtal Restaurant

Conclude your trip with a satisfying dinner reflecting a blend of regions.
A short drive from the tower.
USD12, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Baghdad
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About Karbala

10-day trip to Karbala and Najaf, Iraq
Packing List
12 Days in Karbala During Arbaeen
Packing List
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your Karbala Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go