Baghdad

Located in the Kadhimiya suburb of Baghdad, the Imam al-Kazim and Imam al-Jawad Shrine is one of the most striking religious sites in the city. This important Shi’a mosque houses the tombs of the seventh and ninth Twelver Imams, making it a major pilgrimage site. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome to enter and explore the mosque; however, it's important to be respectful of religious customs and dress modestly. Due to its religious and historical significance, the shrine is heavily guarded and security is strict. You should expect to pass through three security checkpoints: one upon entering the Kadhimiya area, and two more before reaching the mosque itself. Inside, the shrine’s ornate and reflective design creates a serene and reverent atmosphere, heightened by the devotion of the pilgrims in prayer. Photography is generally permitted, but it is advisable to ask staff before taking photos, especially in more sensitive areas.

No visit to Baghdad is complete without exploring Al-Mutanabbi Street, the vibrant heart of the city. Visit the Qoshla Heritage Gate and the city's traditional bazaar with its narrow lanes overflowing with colourful displays of fresh produce, sweets, and handcrafted local wares. Inside the market, there are some food stalls, where you can try authentic Iraqi street food at affordable prices. Iraqi vendors are known for their warm hospitality, especially towards foreigners. Don’t be shy to accept an invitation to share a cup of sweet Iraqi chai, as it is a key part of socialising in Arab culture.

After exploring Al-Mutanabbi Street and the nearby bazaar, make your way to the Tigris River, just a short walk away, and hop on a boat for a ride along one of the most historic rivers in the world. Flowing through the heart of Baghdad, the Tigris offers a unique perspective on the city's character along its banks.

Known in English as Liberation Square, Al-Tahrir Square is Baghdad’s largest and most central public space, located on the eastern bank of the Tigris River. This open area, lined with benches and gardens, is a popular gathering spot where locals relax with friends and family. Historically significant, the square symbolises Iraq’s liberation from British colonial rule and continues to be a focal point for political demonstrations. The surrounding area is lively, with numerous bookstores, tea stalls, and restaurants.

Often referred to as the Iraqi equivalent of Madame Tussaud's, the Baghdadi Museum features wax sculptures that capture the lives of average Baghdadi residents from the mid-20th century. Unlike Madame Tussaud’s, which focuses on contemporary celebrities, this museum offers a glimpse into daily life and the local culture of the past.

Al-Zawraa Park is one of Baghdad’s largest and most well-known green spaces. Originally an army camp, the area was converted into a family-friendly park in the 1970s. It features expansive green spaces, a roller coaster, shops, cafés, and even the Baghdad Zoo.

A trip to Iraq is often driven by a passion for history, and Ancient Babylon, located roughly 100 kilometres south of Baghdad, is a key attraction. Since accommodation near the site is limited, most visitors opt for a day trip from the capital. To reach Babylon, head to the Alawi car park, locally referred to as the 'garage', and ask about shared taxis or minivans heading there. The journey costs no more than 15,000 Iraqi dinars and takes about two hours. These vehicles typically drop passengers a few kilometres from the entrance, so you may need to arrange a local taxi or ask nearby residents for assistance. Currently, entrance to the archaeological site costs 25,000 Iraqi dinars, approximately $18 USD. Payment by card is possible, but it's advisable to carry cash, as foreign cards may not always be accepted. Inside, the ruins reveal a fascinating glimpse into the past. The main area consists of castle-like arches leading to wide terraces, alongside the remnants of the ancient gardens and in the distance, Saddam Hussein’s hilltop mansion looms. Access to the mansion is not guaranteed, as its opening appears to depend on the day and circumstance.

Samarra is a small yet historically rich city located approximately 125 kilometres north of Baghdad. Founded in 836 AD by the Abbasid Caliph al-Mu'tasim, it holds deep significance for Sunni Muslims and features some of Iraq's most iconic Islamic architecture. The easiest way to visit Samarra is on a day trip from Baghdad. Head to the Alawi garage to catch a shared taxi or minivan. A one-way journey in a minivan costs around 10,000 Iraqi dinars. Shared taxis are slightly more expensive but offer a faster and more comfortable ride. Samarra’s most famous landmark is the spiral minaret of the Great Mosque, which was once among the largest mosques in the world. The minaret stands at 52 metres and features a distinctive spiral ramp that winds its way to the top. Climbing the minaret is not always allowed and it is unclear when it's possible to climb it and when it's not. There's also another similar minaret nearby called the Abu Dulaf Minaret, located 28 kilometres from the Great Mosque. Samarra is also home to the Askariyya Shrine, an important site that is sacred to Shia Muslims due to the tombs of the tenth and eleventh Imams. Non-Muslim visitors are allowed inside, but modest dress, respectful behaviour, and compliance with local customs are expected. Due to the shrine’s religious importance, security is very tight and includes several checkpoints. As a predominantly Sunni city in a complex religious landscape, Samarra maintains strict security protocols, particularly for foreigners. If you're not part of an organised tour, expect to be the only foreigner on the journey. This may result in added scrutiny at checkpoints, including detailed passport checks and questions about your travel plans.

Located in southern Iraq, the cities of Karbala and Najaf are among the holiest sites for Shia Muslims worldwide. Karbala lies approximately 114 kilometres south of Baghdad, while Najaf is around 177 kilometres away, offering a day trip opportunity to the beating heart of Shia Islam. Karbala's golden-domed shrine marks the resting place of Imam Husayn, Prophet Muhammad's martyred grandson, while Najaf's magnificent mosque entombs Imam Ali, the Prophet's cousin and son-in-law. The 80-kilometre pilgrimage route between the cities sees millions of faithful muslims annually retracing Imam Husayn's final journey in a procession. Walking this path represents both spiritual renewal and solidarity with Husayn's stand against oppression.