Explore the Iraq Archaeological Tour on this 10-day trip from Baghdad crossing from north to south, visiting key historical sites like Babylon, Hatra, and Borsippa. Embark on a comprehensive 10-day journey through Iraq ancient cities, sacred sites, and natural wonders. From Baghdad’s vibrant streets to the southern city of Basra, this tour covers iconic landmarks, Iraq UNESCO sites, and the tranquil Mesopotamian Marshes, offering travelers an in-depth experience of Iraq’s cultural heritage.

Iraq Archaeological Tour

You Will Love to Visit:

Ctesiphon Ancient City – An iconic arch and symbol of the Sassanid Empire.
Babylon Ancient City – Walk among the ruins of this legendary Mesopotamian city.
Al-Ukhaidir Fortress – A stunning example of Abbasid military architecture.
Karbala and Najaf – Iraq’s spiritual heart with shrines of revered figures.
Great Ziggurat of Ur – One of the oldest known ziggurats, dating back to ancient Sumer.
Mesopotamian Marshes – UNESCO-protected wetlands known for their unique biodiversity.
Al-Qurnah – The traditional site of the meeting of the Tigris and Euphrates.
Samarra Ancient City – Known for its unique Malwiya Minaret.
Hatra Ancient City – Remarkable Parthian ruins showcasing Iraq’s ancient heritage.
Erbil Citadel – A UNESCO-listed citadel and one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements.

This 10-day itinerary covers Iraq’s most significant historical, cultural, and natural sites with accommodations, knowledgeable guides, and private transportation. Experience Iraq’s diversity, from bustling cities to tranquil marshlands, while enjoying the comfort of guided tours and enriching cultural insights.

This itinerary of 10 days in Iraq reveals the deep historical layers of southern Iraq. Starting in Baghdad, you’ll explore ancient highlights like the Abbasid Palace, Babylon’s legendary ruins, and the Ziggurat of Borsippa. Travel south to the ancient site of Ur, a pivotal location in Sumerian history, before reaching Basra. You’ll also visit Al-Qurnah, where the Tigris and Euphrates meet, a site often associated with the biblical Garden of Eden. The journey also includes Samarra and Hatra, historic cities with iconic monuments that trace Iraq’s diverse cultural legacy.

Overview

Itinerary

Inclusions

Starting in Baghdad, this tour takes you through the ruins of Babylon, the fortresses of Al-Ukhaidir, and the spiritual cities of Karbala and Najaf. Explore the Ziggurat of Ur, the beautiful wetlands of the Mesopotamian Marshes, and continue south to Basra before heading north again to visit ancient sites like Samarra and Hatra. The journey concludes with the captivating cities of Mosul and Erbil.

Trip Highlights

Discover Baghdad’s historic sites and explore the famous Arch of Ctesiphon.
Visit the legendary city of Babylon and the fortress of Al-Ukhaidir.
Tour the spiritual cities of Karbala and Najaf.
Marvel at the Great Ziggurat of Ur and cruise through the Mesopotamian Marshes.
Visit Hatra’s UNESCO-listed ruins, Mosul’s historical landmarks, and Erbil’s ancient citadel.

Archaeological Tour

Day 1:

Baghdad Arrival

Arrive in Baghdad, where our team will meet you at the airport. Enjoy a smooth transfer to your hotel to settle in and prepare for the journey ahead.

Day 2:

Baghdad City Tour and Ctesiphon Ancient City

Start your journey in Baghdad with visits to historical sites like Al-Mutanabbi Street, Mustansiriya School, Abbasid Palace, and Liberation Square. In the afternoon, marvel at the famous Arch of Ctesiphon before returning to Baghdad.

Day 3:

Baghdad to Babylon and Karbala

Travel to the legendary ruins of Babylon, where you’ll walk through history in one of the world’s earliest civilizations. Continue to Saddam Hussein’s Palace, with sweeping views of Babylon, and visit the grand Al-Ukhaidir Fortress. End the day with a drive to Karbala.

Day 4:

Karbala, Najaf, and Ziggurat of Ur

Start the morning in Karbala, visiting the sacred Shrine of Imam Husayn, followed by a visit to the Imam Ali Shrine in Najaf. Continue south to witness the ancient Great Ziggurat of Ur, an impressive Sumerian relic, before arriving in Nasiriyah.

Day 5:

Mesopotamian Marshes and Basra

Enjoy a guided boat tour of the Mesopotamian Marshes, a unique UNESCO site known for its biodiversity. Then, visit Al-Qurnah, the meeting point of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, before heading to Basra for an overnight stay.

Day 6:

Basra and Return to Baghdad

Explore Basra’s cultural heritage, including its historic waterfront and lively markets. Take in the sights and sounds of this bustling port city before returning to Baghdad in the evening.

Day 7:

Samarra, Hatra, and Mosul

Head north to Samarra, where you’ll visit the Great Mosque and the famous spiral Malwiya Minaret. Continue to Hatra, an ancient Parthian city with well-preserved ruins, and end the day in Mosul.

Day 8:

Mosul and Erbil Tour

Start with a city tour of Mosul, exploring its historic landmarks and recent cultural revival. Then, travel to Erbil, where you’ll tour the ancient Erbil Citadel and enjoy its vibrant markets and city life.

Day 9:

Erbil Exploration and Return to Baghdad

Spend more time in Erbil, delving deeper into its history with visits to the citadel and nearby landmarks. In the afternoon, return to Baghdad for a relaxing final evening in Iraq.

Day 10:

Departure from Baghdad

After breakfast, our team will arrange your transfer to Baghdad Airport, concluding your unforgettable exploration of Iraq’s history and culture.