Things To Do
in Erbil
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.
- "Slama" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Kayfa halak?" - How are you?
- "Ma'a as-salama" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Erbil Citadel, one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about its rich history.
Head to the Kurdish Textile Museum to explore the traditional weaving techniques and stunning textiles of the region. Take some time to shop for unique souvenirs in the local bazaars.
Dine at a traditional Kurdish restaurant to sample local dishes like kebabs and dolma. End your day with a relaxing walk in Sami Abdulrahman Park.
Take a scenic drive to Rawanduz, known for its breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty. Start with a hike in the stunning mountains to appreciate the fresh air.
Visit the picturesque village of Rawanduz and enjoy a picnic by the riverside. Check out local handicrafts and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Head back to Erbil and enjoy dinner at a local eatery. Relax and reflect on your day exploring nature.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with various archaeological sites and museums.
- Relatively stable security situation compared to other regions in Iraq.
- Growing economy with opportunities in various sectors such as construction, trade, and tourism.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including the nearby mountains and valleys.
- A warm and hospitable local population, known for their hospitality and friendliness.
- Limited infrastructure and public services in certain areas.
- High unemployment rates and reliance on the oil industry can create economic vulnerabilities.
- Political complexities and tensions with neighboring regions and countries.
- Challenges in terms of international relations and travel restrictions.
- Climate can be harsh, with very hot summers and cold winters.
Best Activities in Erbil
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A popular park offering walking trails, green spaces, playgrounds, and scenic views of the city
Explore this historic market with its vibrant atmosphere, local crafts, and traditional architecture
A leisure park featuring a lake, picnic areas, and beautiful gardens ideal for a relaxing day outdoors
Tours
Uncover the best of Erbil with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Erbil
Visit one of these nice places.
The ancient citadel of Erbil offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas, making it an ideal location for photos and sightseeing.
This park provides picturesque natural landscapes and a lake, offering excellent photo opportunities and a peaceful setting for enjoying the views.
The university campus boasts beautiful green spaces and architectural features, making it a great spot for capturing scenic views and environmental portraits.
Food in Erbil
Erbil Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
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!
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.
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
Explore local food markets
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.
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.
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.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When interacting with people in Erbil, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close, especially when conversing with someone of the opposite gender.
Greeting others with respect and politeness, such as using phrases like 'As-salamu alaykum' (Peace be upon you) or 'Good morning/afternoon/evening' is customary in Erbil.
Understanding and respecting local traditions, religious practices, and cultural norms is essential when interacting with people in Erbil, Iraq.
Safety
Tipping in Erbil
Ensure a smooth experience
In Erbil, Iraq, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill. If not, a tip of 5-10% of the total bill is appreciated.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Erbil, Iraq. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some larger businesses, but it is advisable to carry cash for most transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Erbil, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The city is in full bloom, and the surrounding nature is at its most beautiful. This is also a good time to explore the historical sites and enjoy outdoor activities.
Autumn is another ideal time to visit Erbil as the weather is pleasantly cool with temperatures between 12°C and 27°C. This is a great time for sightseeing and experiencing local culture and festivals.
Summer in Erbil can be hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy warm weather and don't mind the heat. However, it's important to stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest part of the day.
Winter in Erbil can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 12°C. While the weather may not be ideal for outdoor activities, this is a great time to explore historical and cultural attractions, as well as enjoy the local cuisine and traditional winter festivals.
Erbil at Night
Hiking in Erbil
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque valley with stunning waterfalls and natural beauty, ideal for hiking and exploring nature.
Part of the Zagros mountain range, Halgurd offers challenging trails and breathtaking views for experienced hikers.
A range of mountains located near Erbil, providing a variety of hiking options and scenic landscapes.
Known for its beautiful scenery, this valley offers easier trails suitable for families and casual hikers.
Famous for its diverse wildlife and lush vegetation, Bradost is a great spot for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
Aiports
How to reach Erbil by plane.
The main airport serving Erbil, Iraq, connecting to various international destinations.
The largest airport in Iraq, located in Baghdad, serves as a key hub for international flights.
Located in Sulaimaniyah, this airport offers international flights and is approximately 144 km from Erbil.
A smaller airport located near Duhok, providing regional flights; situated around 90 km from Erbil.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Erbil, making up the majority of the population.
A significant minority group, primarily found in urban areas.
A Christian minority with historical roots in the region.
Another minority group present in Erbil, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Includes smaller groups such as Yazidis, Armenians, and others.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, also known as soccer, is the most popular sport in Erbil, with many local clubs and a growing fan base.
Basketball enjoys a significant following, with various local tournaments and clubs participating in national leagues.
Athletics is a prominent sport, with many young athletes participating in running, jumping, and throwing competitions.
Volleyball is a popular team sport in schools and communities, with both indoor and beach versions being played.
Taekwondo has a growing number of practitioners and offers a platform for youth to engage in martial arts and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Erbil.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric dishes are prevalent, many establishments in Erbil offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as mezze platters, falafel, and vegetable stews. Look for restaurants and cafes in the city center and bazaar areas for diverse plant-based choices.
For those with gluten restrictions, exploring local rice-based dishes like biryani and kebabs can be a good option. Additionally, many restaurants are accommodating to gluten-free requests, so it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs directly with the staff.