{"id":34153,"date":"2023-12-19T09:51:00","date_gmt":"2023-12-19T07:51:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/?p=34153"},"modified":"2026-03-26T18:52:11","modified_gmt":"2026-03-26T16:52:11","slug":"iraq-itinerary","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/iraq-itinerary\/","title":{"rendered":"Things to do in Iraq in a 10-day itinerary"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/featured-image-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/featured-image-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/featured-image-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.jpg\" alt=\"places to visit in Iraq\" class=\"wp-image-34162\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group atc-info-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center m-0 has-white-color has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"font-size:24px\"><strong>Wanna travel to <\/strong>Iraq<strong> with Against the Compass?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns px-5 mb-0 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:100%\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-normal-font-size\">Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Iraq, where we\u2019ll visit Baghdad, Babylon, Karbala, Mosul, and more<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-atc-primary-green-color has-text-color has-link-color has-normal-font-size wp-elements-ee728dddb9ea970144bcb4d055047068\"><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong><strong>October 6th to 16th, 2026<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/full-iraq-spanish\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">learn more<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite being the cradle of civilization, home to ancient, historical places like Ur and Babylon, Iraq has always been the <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/best-places-visit-middle-east\/\"><strong>Middle East<\/strong><\/a>\u2019s most well-kept secret.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Back during Saddam\u2019s time, unless you were a soldier or on a diplomatic mission, chances that you went to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/destinations\/federal-iraq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Iraq<\/a><\/strong> were pretty scarce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Then, came the American invasion, unleashing a nearly 20-year conflict that evolved into civil war between several parties, the Islamic State attracting most of the media attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, the country has finally gained a certain stability and, with the introduction of a tourist visa, intrepid travelers can finally discover the unknown &#8211; and absolutely epic &#8211; treasures Iraq has been hiding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is a compelling <strong>10-day itinerary<\/strong> containing the things to do in Iraq, and the itinerary we always follow during our expeditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember that this post refers to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-iraq-federal\/\">Federal Iraq<\/a><\/strong>, not Kurdistan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For places to visit in Kurdistan, refer to our <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/places-visit-iraqi-kurdistan-itinerary\/\">Iraq Kurdistan itinerary<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"convertkit-form wp-block-convertkit-form\" style=\"\"><script async data-uid=\"966cc0f59d\" src=\"https:\/\/exceptional-creator-2216.kit.com\/966cc0f59d\/index.js\" data-jetpack-boost=\"ignore\" data-no-defer=\"1\" nowprocket><\/script><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/pinterest-1-things-to-do-in-Iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/pinterest-1-things-to-do-in-Iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/pinterest-1-things-to-do-in-Iraq.jpg\" alt=\"things to do in Iraq\" class=\"wp-image-34164\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:440px;height:auto\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In this Iraq itinerary, you\u2019ll find:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group table-of-contents is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><p class=\"table-of-contents__title\" style=\"font-size:20px\">Table of Contents<\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"#1\">Independent travel vs tour<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#2\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Itinerary<\/span><\/a>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#3\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Map<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"#4\">Day 1 &amp; 2 &#8211; Baghdad<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"#5\">Day 3 &#8211; Babylon<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"#6\">Day 4 &#8211; Karbala<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"#7\">Day 5 &#8211; Mesopotamian Marshes<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#8\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 6 &#8211; Nasiriya, City of Ur &amp; back to Baghdad<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"#9\">Day 7 &#8211; Samarra, Hatra &amp; Mosul<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"#10\">Day 8 &#8211; Full day in Mosul<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><\/span><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"#11\">Day 9 &#8211; Bakhdida &amp; Erbil<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"#12\">Day 10 &#8211; Start your Kurdistan trip<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><\/span><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><\/span><a href=\"#13\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">More information<\/span><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group atc-info-box is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center m-0 has-black-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#fe9900\">our recommended travel insurance for Iraq<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:20px\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=iraq_itinerary_en_text\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>IATI Insurance<\/strong><\/a> is one of the very few that covers travel in Iraq.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-black-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color has-text-align-center has-custom-font-size wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iatitravelinsurance.com\/en-eu\/?r=30867932099453&amp;cmp=iraq_itinerary_en_text\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#fe9900;font-size:16px\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">GET 5% DISCOUNT HERE<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1\">Iraq travel itinerary: independently or on a tour<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/is-it-safe-to-travel-to-iraq\/\"><strong>Iraq<\/strong><\/a> isn\u2019t the easiest country to travel to, but independent travel is doable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During my first visit, I backpacked around Iraq solo for 3 weeks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It did present its own challenges, especially at certain checkpoints but overall, experienced travelers will find it relatively easy and highly rewarding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Going on a tour, however, can also present many advantages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As you may know, in Against the Compass, we run several expeditions into Iraq per year:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>April 9th to 19th, 2026. <strong>SOLD OUT<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>October 6th to 16th, 2026. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/full-iraq-spanish\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">APPLY NOW<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>October 29th to November 9th, 2026. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/federal-iraq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">APPLY NOW<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>December 19th to 29th, 2026. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/iraq-spanish\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">APPLY NOW<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>March 12th to 19th, 2027. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/federal-iraq-in-spring\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">APPLY NOW<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>March 19th to 26th, 2027. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/kurdistan-nowruz\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">APPLY NOW<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>March 31st to April 10th, 2027. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/federal-iraq-winter-tour\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">APPLY NOW<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-atc-primary-green-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/destinations\/federal-iraq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">learn more about our iraq tours<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/tours-in-Iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/tours-in-Iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/tours-in-Iraq.jpg\" alt=\"tours in Iraq\" class=\"wp-image-34168\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">With our group in Samarra, during the Iraq expedition from March 2022<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2\">Places to visit in Iraq in a 10-day itinerary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-vivid-red-color has-text-color\"><span id=\"3\" style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Map of the things to do in Iraq<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/embed?mid=17IyaU308vPq3HcYnWX-eKwMLaGpWXwc&#038;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4\">What to do in Iraq on <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 1 &amp; 2<\/span> &#8211; Baghdad<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:#f2f2f2\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-large-font-size\"><strong>Wanna travel to Iraq with Against the Compass?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Iraq, where we\u2019ll visit Baghdad, Babylon, Karbala, Mosul, and more<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-atc-primary-green-color has-text-color\" style=\"font-size:28px\"><strong><strong>October 6th to 16th, 2026<\/strong><\/strong><br> <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/full-iraq-spanish\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/tours\/full-iraq-spanish\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">APPLY NOW<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Formerly known as the City of Peace &#8211; Madinat Al-Salam &#8211; Baghdad is a bustling, chaotic, lively, and welcoming city, all at the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I like Baghdad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s a cool city to walk around and hang out with open-minded Iraqis but to be very honest with you, it\u2019s not my favorite place to visit in Iraq, probably because it\u2019s too difficult to get around &#8211; traffic is insane and there\u2019s no metro.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-Baghdad.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-Baghdad.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-Baghdad.jpg\" alt=\"visit Baghdad\" class=\"wp-image-34170\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Baghdad is chaotic as it sounds, but strolling its bazaars is one of the best things to do in Iraq<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Still, strolling the streets of Baghdad is epic because come on, we are talking about Baghdad here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Between bazaars, monuments, and cool areas to hang out in, Baghdad could keep you busy for several days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Things to do in Baghdad (Highlights)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.theiraqmuseum.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Museum<\/a> (The Iraq Museum).<\/strong> It contains endless treasures that belong to many of the places you will be visiting in Iraq. Apparently, it\u2019s been finally reopened after years of being closed, making it one of the most desired places to visit in Iraq for history lovers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Al-Mutanabbi street.<\/strong> Al-Mutanabbi (10th century) is the greatest poet in the Arab world, and the famous book market was named after him.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Al Rasheed street. <\/strong>The main market street, packed with interesting Ottoman buildings and people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shabandar caf\u00e9. <\/strong>One of the oldest tea houses in Iraq, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.arabnews.com\/node\/1198476\/offbeat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Shabandar caf\u00e9<\/a><\/strong> is the Iraq seen in the romantic movies, a hub for intellectuals for more than 100 years, and the best place to visit in Iraq for a cup of tea. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Martyr\u2019s Monument. <\/strong>As a single attraction, Al-Shaheed Monument is the most jaw dropping place to visit in Baghdad. Composed of two absolutely massive turquoise half domes, it\u2019s a memorial to those who died &#8211; both Iraqis and Iranians &#8211; during the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Iran%25E2%2580%2593Iraq_War\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Iran-Iraq war<\/a><\/strong> (1980-1988).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tahrir Square &amp; the Freedom Monument. <\/strong>Tahrir is the main square in Baghdad, which is dominated by the Freedom Monument, a mural that depicts the <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/14_July_Revolution\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>1958 Revolution<\/strong><\/a>. You\u2019ll also see a lot of police, and that\u2019s because Tahrir Square witnessed a pretty big demonstration against the Government back in 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Copper market (Safafeer). <\/strong>In my opinion, this is the most interesting bazaar to visit in Iraq, where you\u2019ll find all sorts of artefacts handmade by local Iraqis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/best-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/best-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/best-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.jpg\" alt=\"best places to visit in Iraq\" class=\"wp-image-34172\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The copper market in Baghdad is an unmissable part of your Iraq itinerary<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay in Baghdad<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">In terms of value-for-money, accommodation in Baghdad is really expensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Backpacker<\/strong> <strong>Budget &#8211; <\/strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Royal Garden Hotel<\/span> &#8211; I haven\u2019t personally stayed here but budget backpackers say it\u2019s decent. They have rooms for around $20-$25, but the price may vary. This is <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/U42tBkSMBvZ7QDx66\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>the location<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Budget<\/strong> &#8211; <strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/life-palace-and-rest.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">Life Palace Hotel<\/a><\/span><\/strong> &#8211; Located in Karada, this is a good value-for-money option with the best location, relatively comfortable for what you pay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/life-palace-and-rest.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Check on Booking.com<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Mid-range &#8211;  <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/andalus-apartments.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">Andalus Hotel<\/a><\/span><\/strong> &#8211; Located along Sadoun street, this place is brand-new and absolutely perfect for those with a slightly higher budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/andalus-apartments.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Check on Booking.com<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>5-star Hotel<\/strong> &#8211; <strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/uuo-u-o-ooo-osso-o-ooo-osso.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">Baghdad Hotel<\/a><\/span><\/strong> &#8211; One of the oldest and most emblematic hotels in Baghdad, located by the Tigris River. The hotel also features a bar where they serve beer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/uuo-u-o-ooo-osso-o-ooo-osso.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Check on Booking.com<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Top-end<\/strong> &#8211; <strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/babylon-warwick.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">Babylon Rotana Hotel<\/a><\/span><\/strong> &#8211; By far, the best and most luxurious hotel in Baghdad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/babylon-warwick.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Check on Booking.com<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/cool-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/cool-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/cool-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.jpg\" alt=\"cool places to visit in Iraq\" class=\"wp-image-34174\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Martyr&#8217;s Monument is the best modern monument to visit in Iraq<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5\">Things to do in Iraq on <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 3<\/span> &#8211; Ancient Babylon &amp; Saddam Hussein Palace (overnight in Karbala)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#eaeaea\">Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/syria-itinerary\/\"><strong>Places to visit in Syria &#8211; 1-week itinerary<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After exploring Baghdad, your Iraq itinerary should lead to Ancient Babylon, located 2-3 hours south of Baghdad, depending on traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visit Babylon<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, Babylon is an archaeological site close to a small, uninteresting town named Hillah.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, most independent travelers prefer to visit Babylon on a day trip (either from Baghdad or Karbala), since the few hotels available in Hillah are expensive, plus nothing is going on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Contrary to what most people believe, Babylon isn\u2019t the oldest city in the world. Dating back to 2350 BCE, Babylon used to be a mere village attached to the older and greater City of Ur, and it wasn\u2019t until several centuries later that it began to prosper, becoming the first large and great city in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Hanging Gardens, one of the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/education.nationalgeographic.org\/resource\/seven-wonders-ancient-world\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">7 Ancient World Wonders<\/a><\/strong>, and the Tower of Babel used to stand within these walls, even though there\u2019s nothing left of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Visit-Babylon.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Visit-Babylon.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Visit-Babylon.jpg\" alt=\"Visit Babylon\" class=\"wp-image-34176\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Experiencing Babylon is one of the best things to do in Iraq<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>How to visit Ancient Babylon<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, Babylon is a pretty big archaeological complex, which can be visited in 2 to 5 hours, depending on how passionate about archaeology and ancient history you are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Entrance fee is 25,000 dinars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The site itself has 1 or 2 accredited guides who speak OK English.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While they give a very basic understanding about the generic history of Babylon, they do know about many secrets hidden among those stones, plus they get you access to areas under restoration. During our visit, the price wasn\u2019t fixed, but our guide expected something around at least 20,000IQD for the visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Babylon-Iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Babylon-Iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Babylon-Iraq.jpg\" alt=\"Babylon, Iraq\" class=\"wp-image-34178\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Babylon Dragons <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Things to see in Babylon<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ishtar Gate &#8211;<\/strong> Today the most Instagrammeable place to visit in Iraq &#8211; if there has to be one &#8211; Ishtar was one of the several gates that gave access to Babylon (500BCE). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What you see today, however, is a replica made by Saddam. The original one can be seen at the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smb.museum\/en\/museums-institutions\/pergamonmuseum\/home\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pergamon Museum<\/a><\/strong> in Berlin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Lion of Babylon &#8211; <\/strong>This 2600-year-old statue representing a Mesopotamian lion standing above a human.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Babylon dragons &#8211; <\/strong>Dragon-shaped divine creatures associated with Marduk, the god of the city. They can be seen on many walls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Lion-of-Babylon-Iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Lion-of-Babylon-Iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Lion-of-Babylon-Iraq.jpg\" alt=\"Lion of Babylon, Iraq\" class=\"wp-image-34180\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Lion of Babylon<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#eaeaea;font-size:18px\"><strong>Ishtar Gate and the eternal debate<\/strong><br>The original Ishtar was actually smuggled &#8211; yes, smuggled \u2013 out by German archaeologists at the beginning of the 20th century, with the help of local Sheikhs in a time when Iraq was under Ottoman rule. During the 21st century, Iraq has unsuccessfully attempted its repatriation on different occasions, Germans claiming that the gate is safer in Berlin. As a war-torn country ruled by some of the most corrupt politicians in the world, many people believe that, if it weren\u2019t for the Germans, this gate wouldn\u2019t exist today, while others claim that its fate should have been decided by the Iraqis themselves. <em>Do all these artefacts belong to all humanity, or just to the country where they have been found?<\/em> Personally, I don\u2019t really know.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>How to get to Babylon from Baghdad<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To go to Babylon, you must first get a shared taxi to the city of Hillah.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For that, shared taxis leave from Allawi South Garage, and cost around 10,000IQD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Babylon is located 10km from Hillah city center. You\u2019ll have to take a private taxi, which should cost a maximum of 5,000IQD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Ishtar-gate-in-Babylon.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Ishtar-gate-in-Babylon.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Ishtar-gate-in-Babylon.jpg\" alt=\"Ishtar gate in Babylon\" class=\"wp-image-34182\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">For many, Ishtar Gate is the best place to go in Iraq<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visit Saddam Hussein Palace<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Overlooking the Euphrates River, Saddam Hussein built a massive, luxurious palace for himself with the best views of Ancient Babylon, making it the most bizarre place to visit in Iraq.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today abandoned, this palace still features a pretty impressive painting on the ceiling of the main hall, as well as a Communist-like mural at the main entrance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#eaeaea\">This is one of the more than 60 palaces that Saddam Hussein had across Iraq. If you are interested, there\u2019s another one you can visit is in Gara Mountain, near <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/trip-amadiya-amazing-iraqi-kurdistan\/\"><strong>Amedi<\/strong><\/a> in <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/destinations\/federal-iraq\/\">Kurdistan<\/a><\/strong>. While the palace itself is not as impressive, it has great views, plus it\u2019s been turned into a Peshmerga base. For more information, check my <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/places-visit-iraqi-kurdistan-itinerary\/\">Kurdistan Itinerary<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>How to get to Saddam Hussein Palace from Babylon<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The palace can be seen from the archaeological site, located 2 kilometers away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>After visiting the palace, I recommend going to Karbala, and the reason is that evenings in Karbala are absolutely lively, something one must experience.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>How to get to Karbala from Babylon<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Hillah, ask for Karbala garage. A shared taxi should cost no more than 2,000IQD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Saddam-Hussein-palace-in-Babylon.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Saddam-Hussein-palace-in-Babylon.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Saddam-Hussein-palace-in-Babylon.jpg\" alt=\"Saddam Hussein palace in Babylon\" class=\"wp-image-34184\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Saddam Hussein palace main hall<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6\">Places to visit in Iraq on <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 4<\/span>: Karbala (overnight in Nasiriyah)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Let me tell you a story concerning Islam, from a non-Muslim perspective, meaning that it will probably be pretty basic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When the Prophet Mohammed passed away in 632 CE, there was a huge disagreement over who should be his successor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some people claimed that the successor had to be chosen by the Islamic elite, while others believed he had to be someone from the Prophet\u2019s family, Imam Ali, the prophet\u2019s son-in-law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This last group of people became known as the Shiat Ali, the followers of Ali or just Shia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s when the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.history.com\/news\/sunni-shia-divide-islam-muslim\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>great divide between Shia and Sunni<\/strong> <\/a>started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Karbala-shrines.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Karbala-shrines.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Karbala-shrines.jpg\" alt=\"things to do in Karbala\" class=\"wp-image-34230\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The shrines in Karbala are the most beautiful places to go in Iraq<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Karbala is one of the holiest cities in the world for Shia Muslims, and the reason is that here you find two shrines with the tombs of Imam Hussain (Ali\u2019s son) and Abbas (Hussain\u2019s half-brother).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every year, millions of Shia pilgrims from all over the world, especially from <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/places-visit-saudi-arabia-itinerary\/\">Saudi Arabia<\/a><\/strong>, <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/iran-itinerary\/\"><strong>Iran<\/strong><\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/backpacking-azerbaijan-travel-itinerary\/\"><strong>Azerbaijan<\/strong><\/a>, and Bahrain, come to Karbala to pray in those shrines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#eaeaea\"><strong>Arba\u2019een pilgrimage<\/strong><br>Similar to Hajj in Mecca (Saudi Arabia), <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Arba%25CA%25BDeen\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Arba\u2019een<\/strong><\/a> is one of the largest pilgrimages in the world, taking place forty days after Ashura, and commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. During this pilgrimage, millions of Shia pilgrims visit Karbala within a period of 2-3 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to visit the shrines in Karbala<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The center of Karbala &#8211; where you find the two main shrines as well as most restaurants and hotels &#8211; is surrounded by a security perimeter, where they check your bags and all that stuff.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Be aware that Karbala is as holy as Mecca, hence people are very sensitive to any sort of non-Muslim behavior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In one of our expeditions, one of our participants had a bottle of vodka in his bag (don\u2019t ask me why) which they found when x-raying it upon entering the <em>pilgrim area<\/em>. He was held for a few hours, while our local guide expected the worse but, other than taking his fingerprints, nothing happened to him eventually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, women visiting Karbala must wear a chador &#8211; or an abaya with a hijab &#8211; that covers from head to toe, and it\u2019s recommended to buy one in Baghdad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Read our <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/female-travel-iraq\/\"><strong>female travel in Iraq<\/strong><\/a> for more info.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The two shrines are located one next to other and they are open 24\/7. Entrance is free and remember that DSLR cameras are not allowed, but you can leave them near the entrance, where they keep your shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-Karbala.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-Karbala.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-Karbala.jpg\" alt=\"visit Karbala\" class=\"wp-image-34186\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The interior of the shrines<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay in Karbala<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">As one of the top pilgrimage <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-world-countries\/\"><strong>destinations in the world<\/strong><\/a>, Karbala has hotels for all budgets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Backpacking budget<\/strong> &#8211; Next to the shrines, there are many hotels priced at $10-$15 for a private room. Don\u2019t expect much, but they are good enough for budget backpackers. I stayed at <a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/aFN62DncSZKWryHA9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Hotel Rawan<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Budget<\/strong> &#8211; <strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/al-eshaiker.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">Hotel Al-Eshaiker<\/a><\/span><\/strong> &#8211; Nothing fancy, but better than most cheap options around the shrines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/al-eshaiker.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Check on Booking.com<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Mid-range<\/strong> &#8211; <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/dur-kadhimiya-palace.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Dur Kassir Alkadhimiya<\/strong> <strong>Hotel<\/strong><\/a><\/span> &#8211; A slightly better option located next to the shrines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/dur-kadhimiya-palace.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Check on Booking.com<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:30px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Best hotel &#8211; <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/the-baron-karbala.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\">The Baron Hotel<\/a><\/span> &#8211;<\/strong> The best 5-star hotel in Karbala, relatively well-priced for what you get.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/iq\/the-baron-karbala.en-gb.html?aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>Check on Booking.com<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get to Nasiriyah from Karbala<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>After lunch, I recommend going to Nasiriyah. Direct shared taxis depart from the garage in Karbala. It\u2019s a 300-kilometer ride. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The checkpoint upon entering Nasiriyah used to be a very tough one, but not anymore. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more information, read the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-iraq-federal\/#14\">checkpoint section of my Iraq travel guide<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#eaeaea\"><strong>Should you visit Najaf?<\/strong><br>Najaf is the other super holy place to go in Iraq, another top pilgrimage place. The reason I didn\u2019t add it to this Iraq itinerary is that we don\u2019t include it in our <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/destinations\/federal-iraq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Iraq expeditions<\/a><\/strong> and that is because I didn\u2019t personally love it. I mean, it\u2019s an interesting city with a nice bazaar and a beautiful shrine but it can\u2019t compete with Karbala. If you have the time, do visit it but, if you have to choose one, stick with Karbala.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-najaf.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-najaf.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-najaf.jpg\" alt=\"visit najaf\" class=\"wp-image-34188\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Najaf main bazaar<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7\">Cool things to do in Iraq on <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 5<\/span> &#8211; Day trip to the Mesopotamian Marshes (overnight in Nasiriya)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#eaeaea\">On day 5, I recommend going straight to the Marshes from Nasiriyah, and leave your Nasiriyah visit for the following day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For many, the Mesopotamian Marshes, or Arab Marshes, are the best place to visit in Iraq, a wetland ecosystem in south Iraq, an aquatic landscape in the middle of the desert, home to a distinct cultural group named the Marsh Arabs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Occupying an area of 10,000km<sup>2<\/sup>, the Marshes house many different species of animals and plants, including a large population of water buffalos, which you will certainly cross into during your boat trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Marshes are also dotted with hundreds of islands, many of them inhabited by the Marsh Arabs, who traditionally live in <em>sarifas<\/em>, a peculiar house entirely made of reed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/traditional-houses-Arab-Marshes.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/traditional-houses-Arab-Marshes.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/traditional-houses-Arab-Marshes.jpg\" alt=\"traditional houses Arab Marshes\" class=\"wp-image-34190\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The traditional houses in the Marshes are one of the fun things to visit in Iraq<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Marsh Arabs living in the islands are particularly conservative, so be careful when taking pictures, or walking around their settlements. <sup><\/sup><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to visit the Marshes (independently)<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The best way to experience the Marshes is on a local canoe, sailing across the entangled, natural pathways formed by the vegetation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For that, the easiest is to be on an organized tour, but you could but you can do it independently too, that\u2019s what I did during my first time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For that, wake up extra early in the morning and take a shared taxi from Nasiriyah to Chibayish, the main town in the Marshes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The taxi will drop you at the main bazaar, which is around 6km from the point where boats depart from, so you\u2019ll need to get a private taxi. The boat departure area is right next to the floating mosque and the Monument of Martyrs, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/G64DCzFBscKo4Usg9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">just here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Also, check Eva&#8217;s video on the Marshes<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/6YGEv3hgyF8\" title=\"YouTube video player\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen=\"\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:25px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The Marshes receive a significant number of domestic tourists, so don\u2019t be surprised by the large number of locals offering you a boat ride. Most of those boat owners are young Iraqis in their twenties wearing normal clothes but, for a true experience, choose one of the older, bearded men with traditional clothes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If there aren\u2019t any, ask for <strong>Abu Hayder<\/strong>, an authentic Marsh Arab who has become quite a celebrity in the area, not only because he is a charismatic singer, but because he has hosted quite a few YouTubers with a large audience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The boat ride costs around $20-$25 for 2-3 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/How-to-visit-Mesopotamian-Marshes.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/How-to-visit-Mesopotamian-Marshes.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/How-to-visit-Mesopotamian-Marshes.jpg\" alt=\"How to visit Mesopotamian Marshes\" class=\"wp-image-34192\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Abu Hayder is the man you need to meet up with during your Iraq itinerary<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay in the Marshes<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have the time, staying in a traditional house in the Marshes is quite an experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During my first visit, Abu Hayder offered to let me stay at his house for $30, including dinner, breakfast, and his lovely hospitality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When I came with the group expedition back in March 2022, we stayed on one of the local islands with a local family. For intrepid travelers, it was a unique experience, but be aware that they still don\u2019t understand the concept of tourism, so there was no kind of facility; it was just as they lived.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In any case, staying on an island is something you must arrange in advance with a travel agency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Islands-in-Arab-Marshes.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Islands-in-Arab-Marshes.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Islands-in-Arab-Marshes.jpg\" alt=\"Islands in Arab Marshes\" class=\"wp-image-34194\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Local island in the Marshes<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Mesopotamian-Marshes.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Mesopotamian-Marshes.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Mesopotamian-Marshes.jpg\" alt=\"Mesopotamian Marshes\" class=\"wp-image-34196\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Local people in the Marshes<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8\">Things to do in Iraq on <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 6<\/span> &#8211;  Nasiriya, the City of Ur and back to Baghdad<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Nasiriya is one of the largest cities in <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-iraq-federal\/\">Iraq<\/a><\/strong>, popular among tourists for being the getaway to the Mesopotamian Marshes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s also known for being a high-security city, home to the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dailymail.co.uk\/news\/article-5902675\/Inside-Baghdad-jail-ISIS-terrorists-death-row.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">American-built Al-Hoot prison<\/a><\/strong>, a maximum-security prison today filled with ISIS fighters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Honestly, there\u2019s not a lot to do in Nasiriyah, but it\u2019s more like a transit town for going to other places so, unless you know local people to hang out with, I don\u2019t recommend staying here for very long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visit Ziggurat of Ur<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Archaeology fans agree that experiencing Ur is the best single thing to do in Iraq.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/city-of-Ur-Irak.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/city-of-Ur-Irak.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/city-of-Ur-Irak.jpg\" alt=\"city of Ur, Irak\" class=\"wp-image-34198\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ur, with some local friends<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Ur is perhaps one of the oldest cities in the world (3800 BCE) \u2013 even older than Babylon \u2013 and believed to be the birthplace of Abraham.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">It is located around 20km from Nasiriya, making it the perfect few-hour trip from Nasiriya. There is no public transportation, but you can easily go there in a private taxi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Entrance fee is 25,000IQD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">After visiting Ur, go back to Nasiriyah and take a local shared taxi to Baghdad, located 5 hours away, a bit more if there\u2019s traffic upon arriving in Baghdad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-medium-font-size\">Spend the night in Baghdad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button aligncenter\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en-gb.html?city=-3103581&amp;aid=1232728&amp;label=iraq_itinerary_en\" style=\"border-radius:11px;background-color:#0c3b7c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow sponsored\"><strong>CLICK HERE TO LOOK FOR ACCOMMODATION IN BAGHDAD<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-Ur-in-Iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-Ur-in-Iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-Ur-in-Iraq.jpg\" alt=\"visit Ur in Iraq\" class=\"wp-image-34200\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">They claim that this is the oldest standing arch in the world<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9\">What to do in Iraq on <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 7<\/span> &#8211; Samarra &amp; Hatra (overnight in Mosul)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#eaeaea;font-size:18px\">Travelers moving around by public transportation will find it difficult to visit Samarra and then go to <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-mosul-iraq-after-liberation\/\"><strong>Mosul <\/strong><\/a>on the same day, since there\u2019s no direct transportation from Samarra to Mosul. To make it even more complicated, know that it\u2019s not allowed to stay overnight in Samarra. Therefore, independent travelers should visit Samarra on a day trip from Baghdad, go back to Baghdad and then take a shared taxi to Mosul on the following day. Hatra can be visited on a day trip from Mosul.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visit Samarra<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/interesting-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/interesting-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/interesting-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.jpg\" alt=\"interesting places to visit in Iraq\" class=\"wp-image-34202\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Climbing this minaret is the coolest thing to do in Iraq<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The UNESCO World Heritage city of Samarra was the capital of the Abbasid caliphate, the third caliphate to succeed the Prophet Muhammad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Independent travelers will notice that there are a lot of checkpoints in Samarra. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Back in 2006, the city of Samarra was affected by a <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/2006_al-Askari_mosque_bombing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">suicide bombing targeting Al-Askari mosque<\/a><\/strong>, one of the holiest shrines in the world for Shia Muslims.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since then, the armed group and Shia militia <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Peace_Companies\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sarayat Al Salam<\/a><\/strong> has taken control of Samarra, establishing checkpoints all over the city. They are a paranoid group, suspicious of everyone, especially foreigners but with the <em>slow<\/em> normalization of tourism, they aren&#8217;t giving too much trouble anymore. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/minaret-of-Malwiya-in-Samarra.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/minaret-of-Malwiya-in-Samarra.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/minaret-of-Malwiya-in-Samarra.jpg\" alt=\"minaret of Malwiya in Samarra\" class=\"wp-image-34204\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Local people in the minaret<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Things to do in Samarra<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The iconic minaret of Malwiya:<\/strong> The reason why many travelers come here, a jaw-dropping 52-meter-tall spiraling minaret that is part of the Grand Mosque of Samarra. The mosque was built in 851 and at that time, it was the <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_largest_mosques\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>largest mosque in the world<\/strong><\/a>. Entrance fee for the minaret is 25,000IQD<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Al-Askari mosque: <\/strong>The third holiest mosque in Iraq after the shrines in Najaf and Karbala, a very important pilgrimage place for Shia Muslims.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Dar al-Khalifa (Palace of the Caliph):<\/strong> he Governmental palace during a significant period of the Abbasid Caliphate, today in excellent condition. Independent travelers will have a hard time getting in &#8211; I was not allowed to enter during my first visit, even though I went there with two locals from Samarra &#8211; but join one of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/destinations\/federal-iraq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">our Iraq expeditions<\/a><\/strong> and you won\u2019t experience any problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>Where to stay in Samarra<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Staying in Samarra is not allowed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How to get to Samarra from Baghdad<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Local shared taxis leave from the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/LqnkP9tgQ4hmSe4k9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">North Allawi Garage<\/a><\/strong> and cost 15,000IQD, 130km.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Al-Askari-mosque-Samarra.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Al-Askari-mosque-Samarra.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Al-Askari-mosque-Samarra.jpg\" alt=\"Al-Askari mosque, Samarra\" class=\"wp-image-34206\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Al-Askari mosque<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visit Hatra<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Hatra is the one place you can&#8217;t miss in your Iraq travel itinerary, outstanding. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hatra is one of the most amazing places to visit in Iraq, an extremely well-preserved 2,000-year-old fortress located in the middle of the desert.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The cherry on top is that Hatra was used by ISIS as a base or training camp, the heritage of which is still visible in the many graffiti painted on its walls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The fortress used to be a caravan city located between the Roman and Parthian empires, famed for its fusion of Greek, Mesopotamian, and Roman architecture. At first, it does look like a Roman temple, with many similarities to Palmyra, but it\u2019s not.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Interesting to mention is that Hatra was the first place in Iraq to be listed as a UNESCO Heritage site. &nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-Hatra.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-Hatra.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/visit-Hatra.jpg\" alt=\"visit Hatra\" class=\"wp-image-34208\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Iraqi guard<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>How to visit Hatra<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a former ISIS training camp, Hatra is located in a sensitive area, a place that witnessed a pretty fierce battle during the liberation from ISIS. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are tanks and the few buildings that used to stand here are just rubble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is the reason why there&#8217;s no public transportation for going to Hatra but you can easily get there by taxi. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Visit Hatra by joining our upcoming <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/expeditions.againstthecompass.com\/destinations\/federal-iraq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Federal Iraq EXPEDITION<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/war-in-Iraq-1024x681.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/war-in-Iraq-1024x681.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-id=\"34210\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/war-in-Iraq-1024x681.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-34210\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/ISIS-grafitti-in-Hatra.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/ISIS-grafitti-in-Hatra.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-id=\"34212\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/ISIS-grafitti-in-Hatra.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-34212\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Hatra-Iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Hatra-Iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-id=\"34214\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Hatra-Iraq.jpg\" alt class=\"wp-image-34214\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10\">Places to visit in Iraq on <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 8<\/span> &#8211; Mosul<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Mosul is the most outstanding city to visit in Iraq.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Infamous for becoming the capital of ISIS from 2014 to 2017, the history of Mosul is rather long, one of the longest in the world in fact, dating back to 6000 BCE, and the area where the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nineveh\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">city of Nineveh<\/a><\/strong> was founded in 1800 BCE.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mosul was liberated from ISIS in 2017, but that came with the high price of leaving an old city completely destroyed, once an open-air museum filled with architectural delights, an <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/whc.unesco.org\/en\/tentativelists\/6355\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Outstanding Universal Value<\/a><\/strong>, according to UNESCO.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, life is coming back to Mosul, Iraqis are returning and a big UNESCO team is restoring and rebuilding many of its treasures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With all the reconstruction, Mosul is living history, and experiencing it is the best thing to do in Iraq<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more information (safety, personal experience, etc.) read my <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-mosul-iraq-after-liberation\/\">Mosul travel guide<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/historical-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/historical-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/historical-places-to-visit-in-Iraq.jpg\" alt=\"historical places to visit in Iraq\" class=\"wp-image-34216\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Rebuilding Al Noori Mosque<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Things to do in Mosul<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Al Noori Mosque.<\/strong> The mosque where historical ISIS leader, Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi, self-declared the ISIS caliphate, the first and only time he ever appeared in public.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mosul synagogue.<\/strong> It\u2019s undamaged. Apparently, this is where ISIS used to hide all their weapons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mosul Museum.<\/strong> I managed to enter thanks to a local friend, but it\u2019s currently closed to the public. The interior of the museum was destroyed by ISIS and today, there\u2019s a team of European archaeologists trying to sort out all pieces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Churches of Hosh Al Baya square. <\/strong>This area comprises 3-4 very old churches, from different Christian branches, all of them heavily destroyed, but they are being rebuilt by UNESCO. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.upi.com\/News_Photos\/view\/upi\/f456da3080117ad715462bdf4c129fd2\/Pope-Francis-Speaks-at-Hosh-al-Bieaa-Church-Square-in-Mosul-Iraq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Pope Francis celebrated mass<\/strong><\/a> in the middle of the square.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ummayyad Mosque. <\/strong>The oldest mosque in Mosul. It has received very little damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Bash Tapia castle.<\/strong> A 12th-century castle overlooking the Tigris River.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more information, read my <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-mosul-iraq-after-liberation\/\">Mosul travel guide<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-background\" style=\"background-color:#eaeaea\"><strong>Note:<\/strong> The archaeological site of Nineveh is currently closed<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Ummayyad-mosque-in-Mosul.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Ummayyad-mosque-in-Mosul.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Ummayyad-mosque-in-Mosul.jpg\" alt=\"Ummayyad mosque in Mosul\" class=\"wp-image-34218\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">This is Ummayyad Mosque, the oldest in Mosul<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stay in Mosul<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Budget \u2013 <\/strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Alsfer Hotel<\/span> \u2013 Basic but pretty good and located in the old city. Best value-for-money option in Iraq, for which I paid less than 15\u20ac a night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/goo.gl\/maps\/GJQfz7sSEoqqaCQy8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\"><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Modern Palace Hotel<\/span><\/strong> <\/a><strong>&#8211; <\/strong>More expensive but nicer. They typically charge 30-40IQD per night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get to Mosul from Baghdad<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Shared taxis leave from North Allawi Garage and cost 20,000IQD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/restoration-Mosul.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/restoration-Mosul.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/restoration-Mosul.jpg\" alt=\"restoration Mosul\" class=\"wp-image-34220\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Experiencing living history, one of the best things to do in Iraq<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11\">What to visit in Iraq on <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Day 9<\/span> &#8211; Bakhdida<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Bakhdida, or Karakosh, is revealing, and a place which not many include in their Iraq itinerary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Home to 300,000 people, Bakhdida is the largest Christian city in Iraq and perhaps in the entire <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/countries-middle-east-safe-travel\/\">Middle East<\/a><\/strong>, the reason why Pope Francis had a special interest in visiting it back in March 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The whole city was also occupied by ISIS but fortunately, all they found was an empty town, since the vast majority of people had left as soon as ISIS made it to Mosul, mostly seeking refuge in the Christian district of Ankawa, near <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/10-best-things-erbil-iraq\/\">Erbil<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nowadays, however, life is coming back in Bakhdida, and it does feel very Christian, visible in the abundance of churches, beer shops, and the relatively large presence of women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Bakhdida, you must visit the Catholic Church, the largest one in Iraq, and where Pope Francis celebrated mass. In our visit, we were lucky to be received by the main priest an extremely well-educated man who spoke good English and impeccable Italian, since he lived in the Vatican for quite a while.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Bakhdida-Iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Bakhdida-Iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Bakhdida-Iraq.jpg\" alt=\"Bakhdida, Iraq\" class=\"wp-image-34222\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The priest, friend of the Pope<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>He is a personal friend of the Pope too and showed us around the church, putting a strong focus on the recent history of ISIS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The interior is fully restored because ISIS burnt it down, and the church&#8217;s courtyard was used by them as a training area. Heavy damage can still be seen, and bullets can still be found all over the place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Near Bakhdida, there\u2019s one Orthodox monastery named Mar Behnam, which shares many similarities with the recent history of Bakhdida.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Karakosh-Baghdad.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Karakosh-Baghdad.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Karakosh-Baghdad.jpg\" alt=\"Karakosh, Baghdad\" class=\"wp-image-34224\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">This was used as a training camp by ISIS<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get to Bakhdida from Mosul<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>I am sure there must be shared taxis going to those villages, but there are also quite a few checkpoints operated by different groups, and I don\u2019t know what\u2019s going to be like for independent travelers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Interesting to mention is that one of the checkpoints is run by a Christian militia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After Bakhdida, you can either go back to Mosul, or go to Kurdistan to start with your <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/places-visit-iraqi-kurdistan-itinerary\/\"><strong>Kurdistan Itinerary<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Mar-Behnam-Iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Mar-Behnam-Iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Mar-Behnam-Iraq.jpg\" alt=\"Mar Behnam, Iraq\" class=\"wp-image-34226\"><\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Mar Benham<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12\">What to visit in Iraq on Day 10 &#8211; Start your Kurdistan Itinerary<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Highlights, places I recommend:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/10-best-things-erbil-iraq\/\">Erbil<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mar Mattai<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Duhok<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Saddam Hussein Palace (Gara Mountain)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/trip-amadiya-amazing-iraqi-kurdistan\/\">Amedi<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sulaimaniyah<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Halabja<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Byara<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>And more<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Check our <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/places-visit-iraqi-kurdistan-itinerary\/\">ultimate Iraqi Kurdistan Itinerary<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/nice-places-to-visit-in-iraq.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/nice-places-to-visit-in-iraq.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/nice-places-to-visit-in-iraq.jpg\" alt=\"nice places to visit in iraq\" class=\"wp-image-34228\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"13\">More information to complement your Iraq travel itinerary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-white-color has-text-color has-background\" style=\"background-color:#2b8f2b\">\ud83d\udce2 In my <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-resources\/\"><strong>Travel Resources Page<\/strong><\/a> you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">All guides and articles for traveling in Iraq destination<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/visit-mosul-iraq-after-liberation\/\">A City Guide to Mosul<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/syrian-refugee-camp-iraq\/\">Visiting Syrian Refugee Camp<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/is-it-safe-to-travel-to-iraq\/\">Is Iraq Safe?<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/female-travel-iraq\/\">Solo Female Travel Guide to Iraq<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-iraq-federal\/\">Iraq Travel Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/trip-amadiya-amazing-iraqi-kurdistan\/\">Travel Guide to Amedi<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/10-best-things-erbil-iraq\/\">Erbil Travel Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/solo-female-travel-iraqi-kurdistan\/\">Solo Female Travel Guide to Iraqi Kurdistan<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/places-visit-iraqi-kurdistan-itinerary\/\">Iraqi Kurdistan Itinerary<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/iraqi-kurdistan-travel-guide\/\">Iraqi Kurdistan Travel Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Travel Itineraries to other countries in the Middle East<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/iran-itinerary\/\">Iran Itinerary<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/places-visit-saudi-arabia-itinerary\/\">Saudi Arabia Itinerary<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-oman\/\">Travel Guide to Oman<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/things-to-do-in-lebanon\/\">Travel Guide to Lebanon<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/syria-itinerary\/\">Syria Itinerary<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You will also like our <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/travel-libya\/\"><strong>Libya travel guide<\/strong><\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/haiti-itinerary\/\"><strong>Haiti Itinerary<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You will also be interested in: <a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/countries-middle-east-safe-travel\/\"><strong>Where in the Middle East is safe?<\/strong><\/a> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/countries-middle-east-safe-travel\/\">The most beautiful places in the Middle East<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/pinterest-2-Iraq-itinerary.avif\" type=\"image\/avif\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/pinterest-2-Iraq-itinerary.jpg\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/pinterest-2-Iraq-itinerary.jpg\" alt=\"Iraq itinerary\" class=\"wp-image-34166\" style=\"object-fit:cover;width:506px;height:auto\"><\/picture><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Wanna travel to Iraq with Against the Compass? Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Iraq, where we\u2019ll visit Baghdad, Babylon, Karbala, Mosul, and more October 6th to 16th, 2026 Despite being the cradle of civilization, home to ancient, historical places like Ur and Babylon, Iraq has always been the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":34162,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[164,160,156],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-34153","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel-guides","category-iraq-2","category-middle-east"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34153","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=34153"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34153\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":57491,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/34153\/revisions\/57491"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/34162"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=34153"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=34153"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/againstthecompass.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=34153"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}