Erbil,Iraq
Erbil is the capital of the Kurdistan Region in Iraq and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a rich history dating back thousands of years. The city is known for its ancient citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which offers incredible views of the surrounding area. Erbil is a vibrant and bustling city with a mix of modern amenities, traditional markets, and historical sites to explore.
The local cuisine in Erbil is delicious, featuring a variety of dishes that reflect the region's culinary heritage.
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Ma'a as-salama" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring ancient history and local cuisine
morning:Start your day with a visit to the historic Erbil Citadel, the oldest continuously inhabited town in the world. Get lost in the intricate alleys and soak in the rich history.
afternoon:Enjoy a traditional Kurdish lunch at Shanader Park, a serene spot full of greenery and water features. Try the local specialty, Tepsi, for an authentic taste of the region.
evening:For a lively evening, head to Jalil Khayat Mosque and take a leisurely stroll at the nearby Family Fun City amusement park, offering a fun-packed evening for everyone.
Arts and crafts with a taste of the local market
morning:Venture to the Textile Museum of Kurdistan to admire its remarkable collection of local textiles and crafts, providing a vivid insight into the region's artistic heritage.
afternoon:Explore the vibrant, bustling bazaars of Erbil's famous Qaysari Bazaar, a perfect place to immerse yourself in the traditional crafts, spices, and flavors of the region. Don't miss trying the delectable kebabs at a local eatery.
evening:As the sun sets, unwind with the locals at Minaret Park, where you can peacefully enjoy the spectacular views of the city and indulge in a delightful food spree at the adjacent food court.
Nature walks and historical tales
morning:Embark on an enriching nature walk at Sami Abdul Rahman Park, with its verdant paths and picturesque lake. Immerse in the lush landscapes before delving into the city's historical attractions.
afternoon:In the afternoon, explore the Erbil Civilization Museum, housing an impressive array of artifacts that showcase the diverse cultural heritage of the region. It's an ideal place to dive into the city's historical past.
evening:Cap off your day with a visit to the Shanidar Park waterfall, a tranquil oasis amidst the city where you can relax and take in the serene beauty, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Culinary delights and traditional performances
morning:Begin your day with a delectable Kurdish breakfast at one of the city's popular breakfast spots, such as Keshk Cafe. Savor the traditional flavors and aromatic teas to kick-start your day.
afternoon:Immerse yourself in a hands-on cooking class to learn the art of creating authentic Kurdish cuisine. From preparing dolma to baklawa, you'll get to savor your own creations for lunch.
evening:Spend your evening enjoying a traditional Kurdish dance performance at the Cultural Museum, where local artists showcase their talents through captivating folklore performances.
Erbil Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Dolma
Dolma is a popular dish consisting of vine leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, minced meat, and aromatic herbs. It can be found in local eateries and restaurants throughout Erbil, with one recommended spot being the bazaar area in the city center.
Must-Try!
Kebab
Kebabs are ubiquitous in Erbil, with various types of grilled meat skewers seasoned to perfection. Must-try variants include lamb, chicken, and kofta kebabs, available at traditional kebab houses like Abu Shahab in the Old City.
Pacha
For the adventurous foodie, Pacha is a traditional Kurdish dish made from boiled sheep's head, typically served with bread and a flavorful broth. It can be savored at local specialty restaurants such as Chalak's Pacha in the Ankawa district.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Shawarma Stalls
Erbil boasts vibrant street food scenes, with shawarma stalls lining many streets. These stalls serve up juicy, spit-roasted meats wrapped in flatbread, drizzled with tahini or garlic sauce. Head to the Iskan Street area for some of the best shawarma in town.
Bazaar Bites
Visiting the bazaars, such as Qaysari Bazaar and Shanidar Park Bazaar, offers an opportunity to sample a variety of street foods, from sizzling kebabs to fresh falafel and local sweets like baklava and kunafa.
Erbil Spice Market
Explore the vibrant Erbil Spice Market to discover an array of aromatic spices, dried fruits, nuts, and local ingredients, providing an authentic insight into Kurdish culinary culture.
Pet sitters in Erbil
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!