Iraq · Culture

7-Day Historical and Cultural Tour of Northern Iraq via Mosul and Erbil

7 Days Round trip from Baghdad Easy pace

Explore the ancient and archaeological sites in Iraq

Spot the Great Mosque of Samarra in Iraq

Explore the enchanting city of Sulaymaniyah

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Marvel at Samarra's ancient UNESCO treasures, including the stunning Malwiya Minaret and Abbasid architecture
02 Explore Mosul's historic landmarks, from the iconic Al-Nouri Mosque to the atmospheric Nineveh archaeological site
03 Discover Duhok's sacred Lalish Temple and soak in panoramic views of Zawa Mountain
04 Wander through Erbil's lively Grand Bazaar and the historic Erbil Citadel, one of the world's oldest inhabited sites
05 Unwind in the serene landscapes of Rawanduz, with picturesque waterfalls and the tranquil Shanidar Cave

Embark on a 7-day historical and cultural journey through Iraq's timeless heritage and scenic beauty. Discover Samarra's ancient UNESCO sites, Mosul's historic ruins, and Duhok's sacred temples, then explore Erbil's vibrant citadel and bazaars. Unwind in Rawanduz's serene landscapes and reflect in Sulaymaniyah's poignant museums and panoramic views while experiencing Iraq's captivating history and breathtaking landscapes.

Embark on a 7-day historical and cultural journey through Iraq's timeless heritage and scenic beauty.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Sulaymaniya, Baghdad, Dahuk, Erbil, Rawanduz, Mosul, Samarra, Halabja

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Baghdad to Mosul via Samarra

In the morning, we set out for Mosul with a stop in Samarra to explore UNESCO Heritage Sites, including the spiral Malwiya Minaret of the Great Mosque of Samarra.
Visit the Abbasid Pond Palace and the Abu Dalaf mini spiral minaret.
Upon reaching Mosul, the evening unfolds with a night tour at Bytna Cultural Center. Overnight stay in Mosul.

Day 02

Ancient Hatra and Mosul's Historic Landmarks

In the morning, we will drive to the ancient ruins of Hatra. This was one of the first Arab kingdoms in Iraq, reaching its zenith in the 2nd century AD. Here, we will explore mesmerizing temples and buildings featuring a distinctive blend of Roman-Greco and Eastern architectural elements.
Visit Al-Nouri Mosque and its famed Leaning Minaret.
Explore the Nineveh archaeological site and its gates.
Visit one of Mosul's old churches, Al-Tahira.
See the unfinished Grand Mosque of Mosul.
Visit the Mosul Heritage Center.
Walk through the fish market and witness the destruction on the Right Side of Mosul, which experienced intense battles. We will stay there for another night.

Day 03

Lalish, Khinnis Canal, and Duhok Views

In the morning, we will drive to Duhok and visit Lalish Temple, the most sacred site for believers in Yazidism.
Then we will explore Khinnis Canal, which dates back to the 7th century BC and was carved out of rock by the Assyrian monarch Sennacherib. We will see ancient reliefs and inscriptions on the cliffs.
In Duhok, we will rest and then drive to the top of Zawa Mountain, gazing at the view of the whole city while sipping a cup of coffee.
Then we will head to Duhok Dam Lake and enjoy the picturesque view.
Enjoy a night tour in the city's local market.
End the tour at Akre Restaurant, which serves superb Iraqi dishes. Overnight stay in Duhok.

Day 04

Akre Nature and Erbil's Historic Heart

Next day, we drive to Erbil.
On the way to Erbil, we will make a stop to tour Akre's beautiful nature, where the Nowruz Celebration is held.
Once in Erbil, our tour kicks off at Erbil Citadel, a World Heritage Site and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited settlements.
Within the Grand Bazaar surrounding the castle, we will stroll through roofed market lanes and explore diverse shops.
Pause for tea in a historic cafe adorned with portraits of local figures.
Later, we will visit the Choli Minaret and the impressive Jalil Khayat Mosque.
During the night, we will walk along Eskan Food Street. Overnight stay in Erbil.

Day 05

Shanidar Cave, Rawanduz, and Waterfalls

We will drive to Shanidar Cave, famous for its Neanderthal remains - 10 skeletons that date back over 50,000 years.
Then we will head to Rawanduz to enjoy its picturesque nature.
Relax at Bekhal and Geli Ali Beg waterfalls.
See the beauty of Rawanduz Canyon.
Return to Erbil.

Day 06

Sulaymaniyah, Halabja, and Azmir Mountain

A morning departure to Suli.
There, we will first visit the Roman Theater.
Visit the Red Security Museum, notorious for Saddam's regime's harsh treatment of prisoners. It was a former headquarters of the Iraqi Intelligence Service in Sulaymaniyah.
Drive to Halabja town to visit the Halabja Monument, a memorial to Kurdish victims under the former regime.
Relax in a resort.
Visit the city's market.
Walk along the famed Salim Food Street.
Drive to Azmir Mountain to sip a cup of coffee and enjoy the incredible view of the city.
Overnight stay in Sulaymaniyah.

Day 07

Transfer to Erbil or Baghdad Airport

We can either drive to Erbil Airport or Baghdad Airport.

Where this trip takes you

Malwiya Minaret, Erbil Citadel, Shanidar Cave, Rawanduz Canyon

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Baghdad 8 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Experienced tour guide with a deep interest in Iraq's history
Modern car and a private driver for transportation
Airport pick-up and drop-off
A pre-trip video call to explain the trip's details and learn basic Iraqi phrases and cultural practices