Updated One-Week Iraq Itinerary for 2026
This classic 7-day itinerary focuses on Federal Iraq’s highlights, starting in Baghdad and heading south to ancient sites, holy cities, marshes, and Basra. It remains feasible in 2026, with improved stability in tourist areas. Recent traveler reports confirm accessible public transport (shared taxis/garages) and friendly locals, though checkpoints persist near sensitive spots like Samarra or Nasiriyah.
Key 2026 Updates:
- Visa: Visa on arrival suspended since March 2025 for most nationalities (e.g., EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia). Apply for an e-Visa in advance via the official portal (evisa.iq). Processing takes 24-48 hours; cost ~$150-160 USD (includes insurance). Valid for 60 days.
- COVID Rules: No PCR tests or vaccination proof required.
- Safety: Tourist areas (itinerary route) are generally stable and welcoming. Western governments (US, UK, Canada, Australia) advise against all/non-essential travel due to terrorism/kidnapping risks. Independent travel works, but join a guided tour for ease (e.g., Rocky Road Travel or local groups via Iraqi Travellers Cafe on Facebook).
- Transport: Use Careem app in major cities; shared taxis between them (~10,000-30,000 IQD per seat).
- Dress: Conservative (cover shoulders/knees); women need full chador/abaya for shrines in Karbala/Najaf (buy locally ~5,000-10,000 IQD).
Haydar Khana Mosque, Baghdad
Day 1: Baghdad
Explore the vibrant capital: Mustanasiriyah Madrasa, Safafeer Copper Market, Al Mutanabi Street (books/cafes), Shabander Cafe, Al Rashid Street (juices/shawarma), Tahrir Square (murals), and evening at Al Kadhimiyah Mosque (gender-segregated; deposit phones/shoes).
Overnight: Baghdad (e.g., Coral Baghdad Hotel or Babylon Rotana).
Day 2: Samarra Day Trip + Baghdad
Morning: Al Shaheed Monument (Iran-Iraq War memorial).
Then north to Samarra (~2.5 hours shared taxi from Allawi Garage, ~15,000 IQD). Visit Grand Mosque and spiral Malwiya Minaret (climb for views). Checkpoints common—patiently wait or arrange local contacts.
Return to Baghdad evening.
Malwiya Minaret, Samarra
Day 3: Babylon + Karbala
South to Babylon near Hillah (~1.5-2 hours from Baghdad via Al Nahda/Allawi South Garage). See replica Ishtar Gate, Lion of Babylon, ruins, and Saddam’s overlooking palace.
Continue to holy Karbala (~1 hour). Visit Imam Hussein Shrine (gold-domed, mirrored interior) and Imam Abbas Shrine (evenings lively; women in chador).
Overnight: Karbala.
Imam Hussein Shrine, Karbala
Day 4: Najaf + Kufa
To Najaf (~30-45 min shared taxi). Visit golden Imam Ali Shrine and vast Wadi as-Salaam cemetery.
Short trip to nearby Kufa for ancient Grand Mosque of Kufa.
Overnight: Najaf or return to Karbala/Baghdad if preferred.
Day 5: Ur + Nasiriyah
South to Nasiriyah (~3 hours from Najaf). Day trip to impressive Ziggurat of Ur (well-preserved Sumerian temple; ~25,000 IQD entry). Tight security—may need local sponsor for checkpoints.
Stroll Nasiriyah’s Euphrates River area.
Overnight: Nasiriyah.
Ziggurat of Ur
Day 6: Mesopotamian Marshes + Basra
Morning boat ride in Hammar Marshes (Chibayesh; hire mashuf canoe ~30,000 IQD/hour; contact guides like Abo Haidar). Spot reed houses and Marsh Arab culture.
Head to Basra (~2-3 hours).
Overnight: Basra.
Boat ride in the Mesopotamian Marshes
Day 7: Basra
Relax along Shatt al-Arab waterway (boat cruise), explore restored Shanasheel old city canals, and lively fish markets.
Depart from Basra Airport (open-jaw flight ideal) or return north.
Shatt al-Arab, Basra
Tips: Budget ~$50-100/day (excluding flights/tours). Eat masgouf (grilled carp). Reverse itinerary if flying into Basra. Extend for Iraqi Kurdistan (separate visa often available on arrival).
Iraq offers incredible history and hospitality—plan carefully for a rewarding trip! Questions? Ask below.