Home › Destinations › Baghdad
Baghdad, العراق - Things to Do in Baghdad

Baghdad

Baghdad, العراق - Complete Travel Guide

Baghdad, the capital of Iraq and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, stands as a testament to millennia of civilization along the banks of the Tigris River. Once the heart of the Islamic Golden Age and home to the legendary House of Wisdom, this historic metropolis has been a crossroads of culture, learning, and trade for over 1,200 years. Despite facing significant challenges in recent decades, Baghdad remains a city of immense cultural significance, where ancient traditions blend with modern resilience. Today's Baghdad offers visitors a unique glimpse into both its glorious past and its determined present. The city's architecture tells stories spanning from Abbasid caliphs to Ottoman rule, while its bustling souks, riverside cafes, and cultural institutions showcase the enduring spirit of its people. While tourism infrastructure is still developing, those who venture here will discover real feels, warm hospitality, and historical sites that few other cities can match.

Top Baghdad

the National Museum of Iraq

Home to one of the world's most important collections of Mesopotamian artifacts, this museum houses treasures spanning 5,000 years of civilization. Visitors can see ancient Sumerian, Babylonian, and Assyrian artifacts, including cuneiform tablets and impressive sculptures. The museum has been painstakingly restored and many looted artifacts have been recovered and returned to display.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around $5-10 USD. Visit during morning hours (9 AM-12 PM) for the best experience with fewer crowds. Photography permits may require additional fees. Book through your hotel or a reputable local guide service.

Wander Through Al-Mutanabbi Street

This famous street, named after a classical Arab poet, is the heart of Baghdad's intellectual life and home to numerous bookshops, cafes, and cultural gatherings. Every Friday, it transforms into a busy book market where locals gather to browse literature, discuss politics, and enjoy traditional tea. The street represents the resilient cultural spirit of Baghdad's educated classes.

Booking Tip: Free to explore, but bring cash for books and refreshments. Friday mornings (10 AM-2 PM) are the most atmospheric. Consider hiring a local guide for $20-30 to help with translations and cultural context.

the Baghdad Tower and Surrounding Area

This iconic telecommunications tower offers panoramic views of the sprawling city and the meandering Tigris River. The surrounding area features parks and recreational facilities popular with local families. While the tower itself may have limited access, the vicinity provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance to observe daily life in modern Baghdad.

Booking Tip: Access varies depending on security conditions. Best visited with a local guide who can navigate current restrictions. Expect to pay $10-15 for guided access. Afternoon visits offer the best lighting for photography.

Traditional Iraqi Cuisine

Baghdad's culinary scene offers authentic Mesopotamian flavors that have influenced Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. Sample traditional dishes like masgouf (grilled fish), dolma, kebabs, and the famous Iraqi bread. Many restaurants along Abu Nuwas Street offer riverside dining with traditional music and shisha.

Booking Tip: Meals range from $5-20 per person. Evening dining (7-10 PM) offers the best atmosphere. Look for busy local restaurants as indicators of quality and safety. Some upscale restaurants may require reservations.

Tour Historic Islamic Architecture

Explore Baghdad's remaining historic mosques and Islamic architectural sites, including the Abbasid Palace ruins and various historic mosques that showcase different periods of Islamic art and architecture. These sites offer insight into Baghdad's role as a center of Islamic civilization and the evolution of architectural styles over centuries.

Booking Tip: Many sites are free, though donations are appreciated. Dress conservatively and remove shoes when required. Best visited with a knowledgeable local guide ($25-40 per day) who can provide historical context and ensure respectful visits.

Getting There

Baghdad International Airport (BGW) is the main gateway, located about 16 kilometers west of the city center. Several international airlines serve Baghdad from regional hubs like Uae, Turkey, Amman, and Tehran. Overland travel is possible but requires careful planning due to security considerations. Most visitors arrive via connecting flights through major Middle Eastern hubs. Visa requirements vary by nationality, and many visitors need to obtain visas in advance through Iraqi embassies or consulates.

Getting Around

Transportation within Baghdad includes taxis, which are the most common and safest option for visitors, typically costing $5-15 for city center trips. Ride-sharing apps operate in some areas but availability varies. Public buses exist but are not recommended for tourists due to language barriers and security considerations. Many visitors opt for private drivers arranged through hotels or tour operators, costing around $30-50 per day. Walking is possible in certain areas but should be done with local guidance and awareness of current conditions.

Where to Stay

Karrada
Jadiriyah
Mansour
Green Zone area
Abu Nuwas riverside
Al-Jadriya

Food & Dining

Baghdad's dining scene centers around traditional Iraqi cuisine with influences from Persian, Turkish, and Arab culinary traditions. The Abu Nuwas area along the Tigris River features numerous restaurants serving fresh masgouf (Iraqi grilled fish) and other local specialties in atmospheric riverside settings. Karrada district offers a mix of traditional and modern dining options, while the Mansour area has upscale restaurants popular with locals and international visitors. Street food is available but should be approached cautiously; stick to busy stalls with high turnover. Many restaurants serve excellent lamb dishes, rice preparations, and traditional sweets, with meals typically accompanied by strong tea or Turkish coffee.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Iraq

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Pachi Pizza &Pasta Restaurant

4.8 /5
(3670 reviews)

هوكاباز _ المنصور

4.9 /5
(1753 reviews)

HuQQabaz Baghdad

4.8 /5
(1570 reviews)

Ni caffè

4.7 /5
(780 reviews)

Grano Ristorante & Pizzeria

4.7 /5
(500 reviews)

Seven Chefs

4.7 /5
(257 reviews)
cafe

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Baghdad is during the cooler months from November to March, when temperatures range from 15-25°C (59-77°F) and rainfall is minimal. Spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November) offer particularly pleasant weather for sightseeing. Summer months (June-September) should be avoided due to extreme heat, with temperatures often exceeding 45°C (113°F). Winter can be surprisingly cool, especially in the evenings, so pack accordingly. Consider current security conditions and local events when planning your visit, and always check with your embassy for the latest travel advisories.

Insider Tips

Always carry cash in USD or Iraqi dinars as credit cards are not widely accepted, and inform your embassy or consulate of your travel plans
Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites - long pants and covered shoulders are essential, and women should carry a headscarf
Learn a few basic Arabic phrases or travel with a local guide who can help navigate language barriers and cultural nuances effectively

Activities in Baghdad