Mosul

Mosul, Iraq, is a historic city situated in the northern part of the country, straddling the Tigris River. It is known for its rich history that dates back over 2,500 years, serving as a significant cultural and commercial center throughout various empires, including the Assyrian Empire and the Ottoman Empire.

Despite being severely affected by conflicts, most notably the occupation by the Islamic State between 2014 and 2017, Mosul has been undergoing reconstruction and efforts to revive its cultural heritage and rebuild its communities.

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

day 1

Exploring Mosul History

morning:Start your day by visiting the ancient Nineveh ruins, the remains of the once great Assyrian city. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque Al-Mansour shopping district.

afternoon:Discover the rich history of Mosul at the Mosul Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of artifacts. Enjoy a traditional Iraqi meal at Al-Najaf Restaurant.

evening:End your day with a leisurely walk along the Tigris River, and then head to Shahrazad Lounge for a delightful evening of live music, shisha, and tea.

day 2

Cultural Delights and Bazaars

morning:Immerse in the cultural heart of Mosul with a visit to the Great Mosque of Al-Nuri, known for its distinctive leaning minaret. Continue to the vibrant Hani Bazaar for a taste of local life.

afternoon:Wander through the maze-like alleys of the Al-Majmoua Market, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Savor authentic flavors at Al-Amir Restaurant.

evening:Experience the lively atmosphere of the Al-Khuds Street Market, where you can browse for souvenirs, jewelry, and enjoy the bustling street food scene.

day 3

Riverside Relaxation and Culinary Delights

morning:Indulge in a peaceful morning by the Tigris River, and take a serene boat ride to gain a different perspective of Mosul's landscape. Visit Al-Bashaar Park for a tranquil walk.

afternoon:Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Tigris Grill, renowned for its grilled meats and traditional Iraqi cuisine. Explore the nearby market stalls filled with fresh produce and local delicacies.

evening:Savor a delightful evening of fine dining at True Ney, an elegant restaurant offering a blend of Iraqi and international cuisine with stunning riverside views.

day 4

Nature and History Fusion

morning:Embark on a scenic hike through the breathtaking landscapes of Hazar Lake, where you can experience the beauty of nature and spot diverse bird species. Stop by the charming Hazar village for a glimpse into rural life.

afternoon:Visit the impressive city walls of Mosul, which offer a panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas. Delight in a lunch at Firdaws Restaurant, known for its traditional Iraqi dishes.

evening:Conclude your day by heading to Al-Majida District, where you can relish a serene evening walk through the picturesque streets and soak in the local atmosphere.

Mosul Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Masgouf

A traditional Tigris river fish dish, typically carp or bream, marinated in olive oil, rock salt, and tamarind, then slow-cooked over an open flame to create a distinctive smoky flavor.

Must-Try!

Quzi

A delightful dish featuring roasted lamb stuffed with rice, almonds, and a blend of aromatic spices, traditionally slow-cooked in a clay pot to tender perfection.

Kebab Halabi

Succulent grilled meat, typically lamb or beef, skewered and served with a flavorful blend of traditional Middle Eastern spices, often accompanied by rice and flatbread.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Mosul Souk

Explore the lively Mosul Souk to experience a vibrant array of street food delights, from sizzling kebabs and savory falafel to sweet treats like baklava and kunafa. Don't miss the opportunity to savor traditional Iraqi street food such as Shawarma and Samoon, a classic Iraqi flatbread.

Pet sitters in Mosul

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

Popular cities in Iraq

Explore local food, attractions and more!

BaghdadAl BaşrahKirkukAs SulaymānīyahAr RamādīErbilAn NajafKarbalā’An NāşirīyahAl ḨillahAl ‘AmārahBa‘qūbahAd DīwānīyahAz ZubayrSawrānDahūkAl KūtAsh ShāmīyahAl QurnahAl ḨamzahRāniyahAsh ShaţrahSab‘ al BūrAl FallūjahKalārAbī al KhaşībAs Samāwah‘AqrahAt TājīZākhūAbū GhuraybAl KūfahAl MiqdādīyahSāmarrā’Nāḩiyat GhammāsNāḩiyat Khān Banī Sa‘dŢūz KhūrmātūSalmān BākAr RumaythahQal‘at SukkarUmm QaşrTikrītAl FāwNāḩiyat al IskandarīyahAd DujaylRawānduzNāḩiyat al KarmahAl HindīyahAl ḨayyImam QasimTall ‘AfarAş ŞuwayrahAl MusayyibAl Qā’imSaymaylAn Nu‘mānīyahAz ZubaydīyahHītJamjamālḨalabjahBaladSayyid ŞādiqBayjīAs Sa‘dīyahḨadīthahAl ‘AzīzīyahTāzah KhūrmātūAl HāshimīyahQalādizayAl JabāyishBuhrizAl ḨamdānīyahKifrīMadīnat al ḨabbānīyahKhānah Sūr‘AynkāwahJalawlā’MandalīḨarīrAr RuţbahAş ŞaqlāwīyahShaqlāwahMakhmūrNāḩiyat al KiflSinjārZurbāţīyahAnahKūysinjaqRāwahTall QaşabAsh ShaykhānBāţūfahAḑ Ḑulū‘īyahSinūnīMaşīf SarsinkḨammām al ‘AlīlĀltūn Kawbrī