Things To Do
in Iraq

Traditional Iraqi grilled carp, split and cooked over an open flame—best found along rivers in Baghdad and in southern/central regions near the Tigris and Euphrates.

Must-Try!

Grape leaves or vegetables stuffed with a spiced rice and meat mixture; available in family-run restaurants and home kitchens.

Dumplings made from bulgur or semolina filled with spiced meat; served in soups or fried—common in Mosul and northern Iraq.

A baked tray dish with meat, eggplant, potatoes and tomatoes—comfort food served in many local restaurants.

Dress modestly—both men and women should avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites or conservative areas. Women may be expected to cover hair at certain shrines; carry a scarf.

Polite greetings, handshakes (with same gender when in doubt), and accepting tea or hospitality are important. Declining hospitality should be done politely and with thanks.

Avoid discussing sectarian politics or sensitive historical topics in public. During Ramadan, show respect by avoiding eating, drinking or smoking in public daytime in observant areas.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially women and religious ceremonies or military/security personnel; some sites prohibit photos—observe signs and local instructions.

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory; 10% in restaurants is common where service is good, small tips for hotel staff, drivers and guides are customary. For informal helpers and guides a few thousand IQD (or the local equivalent) is appreciated.

Cash in Iraqi dinar (IQD) is the primary payment method across most of the country; major hotels and some businesses in large cities accept credit cards, but card acceptance is limited outside urban centers. US dollars may be accepted in some tourist services; ATMs exist in major cities but can be unreliable—carry sufficient cash and use official exchange services.

Summers (June–August) are very hot in much of Iraq—temperatures inland and in the south often exceed 40°C (104°F). Travel early in the day, stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activity at midday, and plan indoor or mountain activities for afternoons.

Autumn (September–November) brings more comfortable temperatures, clear skies and is a good season for city touring and archaeological sites before winter rains in some areas.

Winters (December–February) are mild in the south and can be cold and snowy in northern highlands—Kurdistan sees snow and is suitable for mountain scenery; bring warm clothing for nights.

Spring (March–May) offers pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes, a popular time for outdoor excursions and visiting the marshes and gardens.

Spectacular canyon hikes and scenic overlooks near Rawanduz in the Kurdistan Region—great for day hikes and photography.

A dramatic valley with waterfalls and rock formations north of Erbil—popular for short treks and picnics.

Higher-altitude hikes in the Zagros range offering alpine scenery, cooler summer weather and panoramic views; require local guides for route safety.

Short hikes around Sinjar mountain provide views of plains and historically significant landscapes—check local conditions before visiting.

Main international gateway for the capital with flights to regional and international destinations; ground transport to central Baghdad can be affected by checkpoints and traffic—use official taxis or pre-arranged transfers.

Primary airport for the Kurdistan Region with direct flights to the Middle East and some European destinations. Easier access to tourist services and more consistent visa-on-arrival procedures in many cases.

Services southern Iraq and the Shatt al-Arab region; useful for visiting Basra and the marshes—domestic connections vary.

Regional airports have limited commercial service depending on stability and reconstruction; check schedules and security status before planning travel.

Vegetarian options exist (rice dishes, dolma, lentil soups, salads) but meat is central to many menus—ask for meat-free versions and be explicit about no meat stock. In larger cities and hotels you’ll find more vegetarian-friendly options.

Vegan choices can be limited; stick to salads, falafel where available, grilled vegetables and rice-based dishes, and confirm that dairy or meat broths are not used.

Most meat served is halal by default; in religious cities be respectful around food during Ramadan—avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight in observant areas.

Carry any essential medications and make allergy needs clear in Arabic or with a translation card—use bottled water for drinking in many areas and choose busy, well-reviewed eateries when possible.