Erbil, Iraq-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Modern Erbil

  • Morning: Start your day with breakfast at Kebabchi, a local favorite serving delicious kebabs and traditional Iraqi cuisine. Try the “Machboos” (a flavorful rice dish) to go.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Erbil Citadel Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient ruins, museums, and a stunning view of the city. Take your time exploring the park’s many corners, including the 8th-century temple.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Salam Café, a cozy spot with delicious sandwiches and salads. Try their signature “Salam Burger.”
  • Afternoon: Head to the nearby Museum of Civilization to learn about Erbil’s rich history, from ancient civilizations to modern-day Iraq.
  • Evening: End your day with dinner at Chili’s, a popular international chain serving American-style comfort food. Don’t forget to try their famous “Baby Back Ribs.”

Day 2: Ancient Erbil

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Erbil Museum of History to learn about the city’s ancient past, featuring artifacts from the Sumerian and Assyrian civilizations.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the nearby Qalatga Darband Cave**, a stunning natural cave featuring ancient rock carvings and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at KFC, a convenient spot for fried chicken and local-style sides.
  • Afternoon: Visit the ancient Dukan Temple, a stunning example of Sumerian architecture featuring intricate carvings and inscriptions.
  • Evening: End your day with dinner at Shawarma House, a local favorite serving delicious shawarma (meat skewers) and traditional Iraqi cuisine.

Day 3: Relaxation Day

  • 9:00 AM: Spend the morning relaxing at your hotel or exploring the nearby Rabia Park, a peaceful oasis featuring walking paths, gardens, and a serene atmosphere.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Fish & Chips, a cozy spot serving fresh seafood and local-style sides.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Mall of Erbil, a large shopping center featuring international brands, restaurants, and entertainment options.
  • Evening: End your day with dinner at Texas Roadhouse, a popular American-style steakhouse serving high-quality meats and sides.

Day 4: Shopping Day

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Souk Erbil Market, a bustling marketplace featuring local vendors selling everything from spices to souvenirs.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Mandarin Restaurant, a cozy spot serving traditional Chinese cuisine and local-style sides.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Kurdistan Mall, a large shopping center featuring international brands, restaurants, and entertainment options.
  • Evening: End your day with dinner at Arabian Nights, a local favorite serving traditional Iraqi cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Things to Know:

  • Language: Arabic is the official language of Iraq, but English is widely spoken in Erbil.
  • Currency: The Iraqi Dinar (IQD) is the local currency, although USD and EUR are also accepted at many establishments.
  • Safety: Erbil is considered one of the safest cities in Iraq, with low crime rates and a strong security presence.
  • Weather: Erbil has a hot desert climate, with temperatures often reaching 40°C (104°F) during the summer months.

Transportation:

  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Erbil, but make sure to use reputable companies like Erbil Taxi.
  • Uber: Uber is also available in Erbil, with a wide range of cars and drivers.
  • Walking: Walking is a great way to explore Erbil’s historic areas, but be careful of the hot sun and uneven streets.

Tips:

  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or historical sites.
  • Try local cuisine, including dishes like “Machboos” and “Shawarma.”
  • Don’t drink tap water, as it may not be safe for consumption.
  • Use sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Visit the Hearst Tower, a stunning example of modern architecture featuring a panoramic view of the city.
  • Explore the nearby Qara Dagh Mountains, a beautiful natural landscape featuring hiking trails and scenic views.
  • Visit the local Artisan Market, showcasing traditional crafts and handmade products.

Note: This itinerary is for general information purposes only, and it’s always best to consult with a travel agent or tour operator for personalized advice on traveling in Erbil, Iraq.