Mosul, Iraq

Mosul Travel Guide

Welcome to Mosul, the second-largest city in Iraq! This ancient metropolis is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. As a traveler, you’ll find plenty of exciting places to explore, delicious food to enjoy, and friendly locals to meet.

Places to Visit

  1. Mosque of Al-Nouri: A beautiful mosque built in the 12th century, featuring stunning architecture and intricate tile work.
  2. Great Mosque of Mosul: One of the largest mosques in Iraq, dating back to the Ottoman Empire era. Don’t miss its impressive minarets and intricate stone carvings.
  3. Mosul Museum: A museum showcasing the city’s rich history, with exhibits on ancient civilizations, including the Assyrian Empire.
  4. Tigris River Park: A scenic park along the Tigris River, perfect for a stroll or picnic.
  5. Qaraqosh Monastery: A historic monastery and the former residence of St. George in 2007, featuring beautiful architecture and stunning views.

Activities

  1. Explore the Ancient City: Visit the remains of ancient Mosul, including the ruins of the Old City.
  2. Take a Tigris River Cruise: Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Tigris River, offering breathtaking views of the city.
  3. Try Local Cuisine: Sample local dishes like kebabs, falafel, and shawarma at one of the many food stalls or restaurants.
  4. Visit a Traditional Souk: Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a traditional market (souk) selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts.

Where to Eat

  1. Al-Rahman Restaurant: Try authentic Iraqi cuisine, including kebabs, falafel, and shawarma.
  2. Mosul Street Food: Visit the street food stalls for delicious and affordable eats like grilled meat skewers and flatbread.
  3. Afaq Cafe: Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in this cozy cafe with stunning views of the Tigris River.

Where to Stay

  1. Golden Hotel: A comfortable hotel with modern amenities, located near the city center.
  2. Mosul Inn: A traditional hotel offering simple but clean and cozy rooms, perfect for budget travelers.
  3. Iraqi Guesthouse: Experience local hospitality in this family-run guesthouse.

Things to Know

  1. Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.
  2. Language: Arabic is the official language; some locals speak Kurdish and English, but it’s always a good idea to learn basic phrases like “hello” (marhaba) and “thank you” (shukraan).
  3. Currency: The Iraqi dinar is the local currency; credit cards are widely accepted.
  4. Safety: As with any travel destination, be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to stay safe.

Transportation

  1. Taxis: Available throughout the city, but always agree on a price before starting your journey.
  2. Minibuses (Sawary): A popular mode of public transportation, connecting various neighborhoods and suburbs.
  3. Walking: Explore the city’s charming streets on foot to discover hidden gems.

Tips

  1. Haggle: When shopping at markets or from street vendors, don’t be afraid to haggle over prices.
  2. Bargain for Taxi Rides: Negotiate a fair price with taxi drivers before starting your journey.
  3. Respect Local Timekeeping: Be aware of prayer times and respect local customs.

Other Things of Interest

  1. Mosul’s Ancient History: Learn about the city’s rich history, including its time as the capital of the Assyrian Empire.
  2. The Tigris River: Take a stroll along the riverbank or enjoy a boat ride to appreciate the city’s natural beauty.
  3. Local Artisans: Visit local artisans and craftsmen to learn about traditional Iraqi handicrafts.

Enjoy your travels in Mosul!