Baghdad, Iraq-7-day-itinerary

August 6, 2024

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

Morning: Arrive at Baghdad International Airport (BGW)
9:00 AM: Transfer to your hotel (Recommended: Babylon Hotel or similar) for check-in
11:00 AM: Visit the Al-Mutanabbi Street, a historic market known for its literary and cultural significance. Take a guided tour to explore the street’s history, architecture, and local vendors.
Lunch: Try traditional Iraqi cuisine at Mansour Restaurant or Garde Manger
Afternoon: Relax in the hotel’s courtyard or take a short walk around the nearby area
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a recommended restaurant (see below)

Day 2: Historical Landmarks

8:00 AM: Start the day with breakfast at your hotel or try traditional Iraqi pastries at Al-Maqal
9:30 AM: Visit the Baghdad Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from ancient Mesopotamia, including relics from the Babylonian and Assyrian civilizations
12:00 PM: Head to the Rashid Caliphate Palace (also known as the “Old Palace”) for lunch and to explore its gardens and historic architecture
2:30 PM: Visit the nearby Mustansiriya University, one of the oldest universities in the world, dating back to 1233 AD
Dinner: Try traditional Iraqi kebabs at Kabob Garden or Shawarma Al-Ahli

Day 3: Cultural and Artistic Experiences

10:00 AM: Visit the Iraqi National Library, which houses a vast collection of manuscripts, books, and ancient texts
12:30 PM: Attend an Iraqi folk dance performance at the National Theatre
2:30 PM: Explore the Al-Sabat Al-Khazraj area, known for its local artisans, antique shops, and traditional crafts
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a recommended restaurant (see below)

Day 4: Day Trip to Babylon

8:00 AM: Depart from Baghdad and drive to the ancient city of Babylon (approximately 1 hour journey)
10:00 AM: Visit the ruins of Babylon, including the famous Ishtar Gate and the Temple of Marduk
12:30 PM: Have lunch at a local restaurant near the site
2:30 PM: Explore the nearby Hillah Museum to learn more about the history and culture of Babylon
Dinner: Try traditional Iraqi cuisine on your return to Baghdad

Day 5: Relaxation and Leisure

Morning: Spend some time relaxing at your hotel or exploring the surrounding area
12:00 PM: Have lunch at a recommended restaurant (see below)
Afternoon: Visit the Al-Fayhaa Mall, a modern shopping center with a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options
Evening: Enjoy dinner and some live music or entertainment at a local venue

Day 6: Traditional Markets

9:00 AM: Visit the Suq Al-Thawra Market, one of the oldest markets in Baghdad, known for its traditional goods, souvenirs, and local vendors
12:30 PM: Head to the Suq Al-Mashriqi Market for lunch and to explore its stalls selling fresh produce, spices, and other local products
2:30 PM: Visit the nearby Al-Adhamiya Mosque, a historic mosque with beautiful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere
Dinner: Try traditional Iraqi cuisine at a recommended restaurant (see below)

Day 7: Departure

Morning: Spend some time relaxing or doing last-minute shopping before departing Baghdad
11:00 AM: Transfer to the airport for your return flight

Taxi: widely available, but be sure to agree on the fare beforehand
Uber: also available
Car rental: available at the airport and in city centers
Public transportation: buses and minibuses (called “service taxis”) are available, but not recommended for tourists due to language barriers

Iraqi folk dance performances at the National Theatre
Traditional music and entertainment at local venues
Visiting with a local guide to gain deeper insights into the city’s history and culture