Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrival in Baghdad

Upon arrival at Baghdad International Airport, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. Take the evening to settle in and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the civilizations, cultures, and stories that have shaped Iraq for thousands of years.

Overnight in Baghdad  

Day 2: Discovering Baghdad

After breakfast, we begin our exploration of Baghdad, a city where the legacy of ancient civilizations meets the rhythm of modern Iraqi life.

Our day starts at Liberation Square, one of Baghdad’s most recognized landmarks and a place that has witnessed many important events, movements, and gatherings throughout the city’s modern history.

We then experience Baghdad from a different perspective with a short boat trip along the Tigris River, crossing the river toward Al-Mutanabbi Street. For generations, this historic street has been the cultural heart of Baghdad, famous for its book markets, literary traditions, and its role as a meeting place for writers, scholars, and intellectuals.

then we wander through the traditional bazaar and the copper market, where local craftsmanship and old trading traditions continue to shape the atmosphere of the area.

After exploring the historic streets, we take a relaxing break at Al-Shabandar Café, one of Baghdad’s most famous traditional cafés. Here, you can enjoy Iraqi tea and dried lime tea while experiencing the charm and atmosphere of old Baghdad.

Later, we travel to Ctesiphon, the ancient capital of the Parthian and Sasanian Empires. The site is home to the famous Taq Kasra, one of the largest surviving vaulted structures from the ancient world and a remarkable symbol of Iraq’s historical importance.

As evening arrives, we discover another side of Baghdad at Karada Market, one of the city’s liveliest areas. Walk through its illuminated streets, explore local shops, taste popular Iraqi street food such as shawarma and kebabs, and experience the welcoming atmosphere of Baghdad’s nightlife.

Overnight in Baghdad

Day 3: Baghdad – Babylon – Karbala

After breakfast, we leave Baghdad and begin our journey south toward some of Iraq’s most significant historical and spiritual landmarks.

Walking through Babylon is a journey into the heart of one of history’s most influential civilizations. Dating back to the 18th–6th centuries BC, the city was once the capital of the Babylonian Empire and a center of power, knowledge, and culture. During our visit, we explore its ancient remains and learn about its connection to King Nebuchadnezzar II and the legendary Hanging Gardens, which were described in classical sources as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Above the ancient city stands Saddam Palace, a modern structure inspired by the palace of King Nebuchadnezzar. From its location on top of Babylon, it provides impressive views over the archaeological site and reflects the connection between Iraq’s ancient past and more recent history.

We then continue to Karbala, where we take time to rest before exploring its most important religious landmarks.

Our visit includes the Shrine of Imam Abbas, dedicated to Al-Abbas ibn Ali, who is remembered for his loyalty and sacrifice during the Battle of Al-Taff. We then visit the Shrine of Imam Hussein, the resting place of Imam Hussein ibn Ali, one of the most significant figures in Islamic history.

Overnight in Karbala

Day 4: Najaf – Uruk – Ur – Nasiriyah

After breakfast, we continue our journey deeper into the ancient heart of Iraq, traveling toward Najaf, one of the country’s most important religious and historical cities.

Our first experience in Najaf is a visit to a viewpoint overlooking Wadi Al-Salam Cemetery at sunset. Considered one of the largest cemeteries in the world, Wadi Al-Salam holds great religious and historical significance, containing millions of graves and standing as one of the most remarkable landmarks of the city.

Leaving Najaf behind, we continue toward Uruk, one of the earliest and most influential cities of ancient Mesopotamia. Flourishing between 4000–3000 BCE, Uruk is considered one of the world’s first major cities and played a central role in the development of Sumerian civilization. The city is also closely connected to the legendary King Gilgamesh and the Epic of Gilgamesh, one of humanity’s oldest known literary works.

After exploring the remains of this extraordinary ancient city, we continue to Nasiriyah to visit the famous Ziggurat of Ur. Rising from the landscape of ancient Sumer, this impressive structure was built as a religious center dedicated to the moon god Nanna. Its massive terraces and unique design reflect the architectural achievements and spiritual traditions of one of the world’s earliest civilizations.

Overnight in Nasiriyah

Day 5: The Marshes – Baghdad

we leave Nasiriyah and head toward one of Iraq’s most unique natural and cultural environments, the Marshes of Iraq.

Located in southern Iraq, these vast wetlands represent one of the largest marsh regions in the Middle East and have been home for centuries to the Marsh Arabs, whose traditional way of life remains closely connected to the waterways and landscapes around them.

During our visit, we experience the daily life and traditions of the marsh communities. We will meet local residents, share traditional tea, and listen to stories about their heritage and the history of this remarkable region.

We then board a traditional boat known as a shakhtura and travel through the peaceful waterways of the marshes, surrounded by unique landscapes and local wildlife.

The experience continues with lunch inside a traditional reed house called an Al-Mudhif, where we enjoy the famous Iraqi masgouf, a traditional fish dish prepared using reeds instead of wood, reflecting the distinctive culinary traditions of southern Iraq.

After this memorable cultural experience, we return to Baghdad.

Overnight in Baghdad

Day 6 | Baghdad

Our first stop is the Martyr Monument (currently closed for maintenance), before continuing to the legendary city of Babylon, one of the greatest centers of the ancient Mesopotamian world.

We then travel to Dur-Kurigalzu, an ancient city dating back to the Kassite period (14th–13th centuries BCE). Once a royal capital and an important administrative and religious center, the site offers a glimpse into the history and achievements of the Kassite civilization.

Later, we explore Al-Kadhimiya, one of Baghdad’s most important neighborhoods. We walk through its lively night market and visit the Al-Kadhimiya Shrine, recognized by its golden domes and its importance as one of the city’s most significant religious landmarks.

Our day concludes with a visit to the Save the Iraqi Culture Monument, a symbolic sculpture created by Iraqi artist Mohammed Ghani Hikmat. The monument represents the strength and resilience of Iraq’s cultural heritage and the ongoing efforts to protect the country’s ancient history.

Overnight in Baghdad.

Day 7 | Baghdad – Samarra – Mosul

We begin the day with an early departure from Baghdad and travel north toward Samarra, a city known for its remarkable Abbasid heritage and architectural achievements.

Our first stop is the Great Mosque of Samarra, home to the famous Malwiya Minaret, a unique spiral-shaped tower built during the Abbasid Caliphate. Standing as one of the most recognizable symbols of early Islamic architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage Site reflects the artistic and engineering achievements of the Abbasid era.

We continue our exploration with a visit to Abu Dalaf Mosque, an important historical site featuring distinctive Islamic architectural elements, including a spiral minaret inspired by the famous Malwiya design.

We then visit Assur (Qal’at Sherqat), the ancient capital of the Assyrian Empire from the 14th to the 9th centuries BCE. Located along the Tigris River, Assur was a major religious and political center dedicated to the god Ashur. The remains of its temples, city walls, and ziggurat offer a remarkable insight into the power and achievements of the Assyrian civilization.

Our journey continues toward Mosul, with a stop at Hatra along the way. Once the capital of the Arab Kingdom of Hatra, this ancient fortified city flourished during the 2nd century AD as an important caravan center between the Roman and Parthian empires. Its impressive temples and well-preserved ruins reveal a unique blend of eastern and western influences.

After exploring these extraordinary sites, we continue to Mosul.

Overnight in Mosul

Day 8 | Mosul – Duhok

After breakfast, we begin discovering Mosul, a historic city that has stood for centuries as a meeting point of civilizations, cultures, and traditions.

Our exploration starts with the remains of the Assyrian Wall, a reminder of the ancient kingdoms that once flourished across this region.

We then enter the Old City of Mosul, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the Middle East. Known for its historic architecture and cultural importance, the old city experienced extensive destruction during the conflict with ISIS, when it became the group’s final stronghold. Today, restoration efforts continue to preserve its heritage and restore the identity of this historic area.

In the afternoon, make the scenic drive to Duhok, winding through the mountains and valleys of Kurdistan as the landscape gradually transforms around you.

Overnight in Duhok

Day 9 | Duhok Erbil

Begin the day with a visit to Lalish, the holiest site of the Yazidi faith a serene and sacred valley of ancient temples nestled in the mountains, carrying a spiritual significance that is palpable the moment you arrive.

Continue to the Khinis Reliefs, where ancient rock carvings commissioned by Assyrian kings are carved directly into the mountainside, before visiting Mar Mattai Monastery, a 4th-century Christian monastery perched dramatically on a mountain with sweeping views and centuries of living history.

Pass through Akre, a picturesque mountain town known for its warm community, unique culture, and natural beauty,

Overnight in Erbil

Day 10 | Exploring Erbil

Today, we discover Erbil, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a place where ancient history continues to blend with modern Kurdish culture.

Our visit begins at the Erbil Citadel (viewed from outside due to current closure). Rising above the modern city, this historic settlement has been continuously inhabited for thousands of years and reflects the many civilizations that have shaped the region throughout history.

We then explore the traditional bazaar surrounding the citadel, where centuries-old trading traditions remain alive. Walking through its narrow streets, you can discover local crafts, spices, textiles, and traditional goods while experiencing the daily rhythm of Erbil’s historic center.

Our final visit is to the Choli Minaret, a historic Seljuk-era landmark that reflects Erbil’s medieval Islamic heritage. The minaret provides insight into the city’s architectural and religious history, as well as its importance along ancient trade routes.

Overnight in Erbil

Departure

we transfer you to Erbil International Airport for your departure flight.