Iraq · Archaeology

8-Day Iraq Heritage Tour through Baghdad, Babylon, Basra and Marshes

8 Days Round trip from Baghdad Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Visit Al-Ukhaidir Castle, a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture
02 Explore Al-Aqyasar Church, considered the oldest church in the Middle East
03 Discover Taq Kisra (Ctesiphon), home to the world's largest brick arch
04 Experience a traditional Iraqi breakfast and explore Baghdad's cultural heritage, including the Grand Museum of Iraq, Abbasid Palace, and Mustansiriya School
05 Experience the holy sites of Karbala with night visits to the Shrines of Imam Hussein and Abbas
06 Witness the meeting point of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers at Al-Qurna
07 Take a boat safari through the UNESCO-listed Chibayish Marshes and explore floating villages
08 Visit the ancient Ziggurat of Ur, the House of Abraham, and the ruins of Uruk

Embark on an 8-day journey through Mesopotamia, exploring Iraq's most iconic historical, cultural, and religious landmarks. Discover Baghdad's treasures, including Ctesiphon and Al-Ukhaidir Castle, before visiting the spiritual centers of Najaf and Karbala. Continue to the architectural wonders of Samarra, the ancient ruins of Babylon, and the natural beauty of the UNESCO-listed Mesopotamian Marshes. Along the way, visit the Ziggurat of Ur, the meeting point of the Tigris and Euphrates in Al-Qurna, and the cultural highlights of Basra.

Discover Taq Kisra (Ctesiphon), the world's largest brick arch.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Premium

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Basra, as Samawah, Najaf, Baghdad, An Nasiriyah, Karbala, Samarra, Babylon, Al-Chibayish

Languages Arabic, English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Baghdad and First Discoveries

Arrive at Baghdad International Airport.
Meet the reception team and transfer to a 4-star hotel.

Overnight in Baghdad.

Visit Al-Ukhaidir Castle.
Explore Al-Aqyasar Church, the oldest church in the Middle East.
Discover Taq Kisra (Ctesiphon), the world's largest brick arch.
Enjoy sunset views at the Panorama Building.
Visit the Liberation Monument.
Join an evening walking tour in Baghdad.

Overnight in Baghdad.

Day 02

Baghdad's History and Cultural Heritage

Start with a traditional Iraqi breakfast of Gaimar and Kahi.
Visit the Grand Museum of Iraq.
Tour Old Baghdad, including Rashid Street, Saray Market, and Al-Mutanabbi Street.
Explore the Abbasid Palace and Mustansiriya School.
Visit the Martyr's Monument and Kadhimiya Shrines.
Stroll along Abu Nawas Street, relax at Al-Shabandar Café, and explore the 1001 Nights Garden.

Overnight in Baghdad.

Day 03

Journey to Najaf

Travel to Najaf.
Visit the Shrine of Imam Ali.
Explore the old city and the local bazaars.

Overnight in Najaf.

Day 04

Samarra and Return to Baghdad

Drive to Samarra.
Visit the Great Mosque of Samarra and its iconic Malwiya Minaret.
Explore other religious landmarks within the city.
Return to Baghdad.

Overnight in Baghdad.

Day 05

Babylon and Karbala's Sacred Shrines

Visit Al-Kifl and the Tomb of Prophet Ezekiel.
Explore the ancient ruins of Babylon, including the Ishtar Gate, Procession Street, and the Lion of Babylon.
Continue to Karbala for a night visit to the Shrines of Imam Hussein and Abbas.

Overnight in Karbala.

Day 06

Nasiriyah and the Mesopotamian Marshes

Visit Al-Qurna, where the Tigris and Euphrates rivers meet.
Take a boat tour in the Chibayish Marshes, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Discover floating villages in the Gardens of Eden.
Visit the Ziggurat of Ur, the House of Abraham, and the Palace of Shulgi.
Continue to the Uruk ruins in Samawah.

Overnight in Nasiriyah or nearby.

Day 07

Old Basra and Waterfront Landmarks

Tour Old Basra, including the Shanasheel houses, Ashar Canal, and local markets.
Visit Saddam Hussein's Ship, the Arabian Gulf Corniche, and the Italian Bridge.
Explore historical churches and mosques within the city.

Overnight in Basra.

Day 08

Return to Baghdad and Departure Options

Drive or take an internal flight back to Baghdad.
Spend free time at leisure for rest, shopping, or optional tours.
Choose to overnight in Baghdad or proceed with a direct transfer to the airport for departure.

Where this trip takes you

Taq Kisra (Ctesiphon), Ishtar Gate, Ziggurat of Ur, Chibayish Marshes

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Baghdad 9 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Airport pickup and drop-off
4-star hotel accommodation (8 nights)
Daily traditional breakfast (Iraqi, Arabic, or Kurdish style)
Private air-conditioned transportation
English-speaking tour guide throughout the trip
Guided tours and historical lectures at each site
Entrance tickets to all historical and archaeological sites
Boat tour in the marshes
Support throughout the journey

What's Not Included

International flights to and from Iraq
Lunch and dinner meals
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Travel insurance
Tips for the guide and driver (optional)

What to bring

Valid passport (with a visa if required)
Comfortable walking shoes
Lightweight clothing and a modest outfit for visiting religious sites
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Portable charger/power bank
Personal medications
Reusable water bottle

Know before you go

Travel safely in Iraq with a licensed guide who handles all logistics and local coordination.
Expect security checkpoints during road travel; the guide will manage all necessary procedures.
Carry your ID or a copy of your passport at all times while on tour.
Respect local customs, especially in religious cities; wear modest clothing.
Prepare for long road journeys between cities by bringing snacks, water, and being ready for extended travel time.
Enjoy photography in most places, but always ask before photographing people or security areas.

Logistics