Erbil, Iraq-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Ancient History and Culture

Morning

  • 8:00 AM - Arrival and Breakfast
    • Arrive at Erbil International Airport
    • Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel (around $10-15)
    • Start the day with breakfast at a local café, such as Al-Jawra Café (try their Iraqi-style flatbread)
  • 9:00 AM - Ancient City of Erbil
    • Visit the ancient city of Erbil, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Explore the Citadel of Erbil, which dates back to the 5th millennium BC
    • See the Old Houses Museum and the Palace of the Khorsheed Khan

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM - Lunch
    • Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant, such as Al-Diwaniya Restaurant (try their Iraqi-style kebabs)
    • Try some traditional Iraqi desserts, like baklava or gurassa
  • 1:30 PM - Erbil Museum of Civilization
    • Visit the Erbil Museum of Civilization to learn about the history and culture of the region
    • See exhibits on the ancient civilizations that once thrived in Erbil

Evening

  • 6:00 PM - Dinner
    • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as Al-Fatah Restaurant (try their Iraqi-style shawarma)
    • Take a stroll around the city to get a feel for the local culture
  • 8:00 PM - Sunset View
    • Head to a spot with a great view of the sunset, such as the Erbil International Hotel’s rooftop bar

Accommodation

  • Stay at the Erbil International Hotel (around $100-150 per night) or a similar hotel in the city center.

Day 2: Modern Erbil and Nature

Morning

  • 8:00 AM - Breakfast
    • Start the day with breakfast at your hotel or a local café
  • 9:00 AM - Erbil City Center
    • Visit the Erbil City Center, a modern shopping complex with stores, restaurants, and cafes
    • See the Erbil Clock Tower, which offers great views of the city

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM - Lunch
    • Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant, such as Al-Azizia Restaurant (try their Iraqi-style falafel)
  • 1:30 PM - Sami Abdulrahman Park
    • Visit Sami Abdulrahman Park, a beautiful green space with walking trails and picnic areas
    • See the Erbil Zoo and Aquarium, which is home to a variety of animals and fish

Evening

  • 6:00 PM - Dinner
    • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as Al-Rahman Restaurant (try their Iraqi-style grilled meats)
    • Take a stroll around the city to get a feel for the local culture
  • 8:00 PM - Relaxation
    • Head back to your hotel or a nearby café to relax and unwind after a busy day.

Things to Know

  • Erbil is a relatively safe city, but as with any travel destination, take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • The local currency is the Iraqi Dinar (IQD), but US dollars are also widely accepted.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.

Transportation

  • The best way to get around Erbil is by taxi or ride-hailing service. Taxis are readily available, and many drivers speak some English.
  • You can also use the Erbil City Center’s free shuttle bus service to get around the city.

Tips and Other Things of Interest

  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in the city center, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Try some local street food, such as shawarma or falafel, which are delicious and affordable.
  • Visit the Erbil International Airport’s Duty-Free Shop to buy souvenirs or gifts for friends and family back home.
  • Consider taking a day trip to the ancient city of Mosul, which is about an hour away from Erbil.