Mid-Range Travel Guide: Iraq

Accommodation

$45-90 per night

Mid-range hotels with private bathrooms, air conditioning, decent amenities, some international chain budget properties

Food & Dining

$25-50 per day

Mix of local restaurants and hotel dining, traditional Iraqi cuisine in tourist areas, occasional international food

Transportation

$15-35 per day

Mix of taxis and public transport, occasional private car hire, airport transfers

Activities

$30-70 per day

Guided tours, museum entries, cultural sites, historical attractions, organized day trips

Eat at local neighborhoods rather than tourist areas - typically 40-60% cheaper for authentic Iraqi cuisine

Use shared taxis (service) instead of private taxis - usually 70-80% less expensive for city transport

Book accommodation directly with properties rather than through international booking sites - often 15-25% savings

Visit during shoulder seasons to avoid peak pricing - generally 20-35% lower costs

Buy food from local markets and prepare simple meals when possible - can reduce food costs by 50-70%

Use public transportation for longer distances instead of private transfers - typically 60-80% cheaper

Join group tours rather than private tours - usually 40-60% less per person for similar experiences

Only eating in hotel restaurants or tourist districts - typically costs 100-200% more than local alternatives

Taking private taxis for all transportation instead of using public options - can triple daily transport costs

Not researching visa requirements and fees in advance - unexpected costs can add $50-200 to trip budget

Booking accommodation in only the most central tourist areas - often 50-100% more expensive than nearby neighborhoods

Not carrying enough cash - ATM fees and card acceptance issues can add unexpected costs