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About Baghdad
Baghdad is the capital and largest city of Iraq, straddling the Tigris River near the center of the country. Founded in 762 CE as the Abbasid Caliphate's Round City, it was once the intellectual capital of the Islamic Golden Age. Today it is a city of roughly 7.7 million people rebuilding through decades of conflict, holding a genuinely significant collection of Mesopotamian, Abbasid, and Ottoman-era heritage alongside a modest but real hospitality and dining scene. As of 2026 it also carries a current Level 4 Do Not Travel advisory from the US State Department and an FCDO advisory against all but essential travel, and any visit should be planned with that context front and center.
- Capital
- Baghdad
- Largest city
- Baghdad
- Population
- Approximately 7.7 million in the city proper (Baghdad Governorate estimate, 2023-2024), Iraq's largest city
- Languages
- Arabic (official), Kurdish (official, nationally)
- Currency
- Iraqi Dinar (IQD)
- Time zone
- Arabia Standard Time (AST, UTC+3), no daylight saving time observed
Explore Baghdad by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Baghdad
The 16 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Al-Mutanabbi Street
Al-Shaheed Monument (Martyr's Memorial)
Baghdad Zoo
Al-Zawraa Park
Al-Kadhimiya Shrine (Imam Musa al-Kadhim Shrine)
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Baghdad Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Baghdad, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Baghdad
- Days 1-2Baghdad city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Baghdad
- Days 1-3Baghdad comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Baghdad, departure
Where to stay in Baghdad
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget 60,000-100,000 IQD (~$46-$76)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range 150,000-260,000 IQD (~$115-$200)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury 350,000+ IQD (~$267+)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Babylon Rotana Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comRoyal Tulip Al Rasheed Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comCristal Grand Ishtar Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comPalestine Hotel
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Baghdad
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Abu Nawas Fish Restaurant
Baghdadi Restaurant
Al-Faisaliya Restaurant and Cafe
Darbunah
Zarzoor Restaurant
Asayel Restaurant
Getting around Baghdad
Baghdad has no functioning public transit system usable by visitors; getting around means negotiated taxis, the Careem app, or a pre-arranged private driver.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in IQD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 40,000-75,000 IQD (~$30-$57) | 85,000-190,000 IQD (~$65-$145) | 150,000-320,000 IQD (~$115-$244) |
| Food (per day) | 10,000-20,000 IQD (~$8-$15) | 30,000-60,000 IQD (~$23-$46) | 60,000-120,000 IQD (~$46-$92) |
| Transportation | 10,000-20,000 IQD (~$8-$15) | 30,000-50,000 IQD (~$23-$38) | 100,000-200,000 IQD (~$76-$153) |
| Activities | 5,000-15,000 IQD (~$4-$11) | 20,000-40,000 IQD (~$15-$31) | 50,000+ IQD (~$38+) |
| Daily total | 60,000-100,000 IQD (~$46-$76) | 150,000-260,000 IQD (~$115-$200) | 350,000+ IQD (~$267+) |
Best time to visit Baghdad
Weather through the year in Iraq
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Iraq.
November through March, for mild daytime temperatures and the lowest heat risk
Regardless of season, current safety advisories (US State Department Level 4 Do Not Travel; UK FCDO advises against all but essential travel) should weigh more heavily on trip timing than climate.
Essential travel tips
- Apply for the Iraq e-visa (approximately $160 including mandatory health insurance) at least two weeks before travel via evisa.iq
- Carry sufficient USD/IQD cash; card acceptance is limited to a few international hotels and malls
- Dress conservatively and carry a passport copy at all times
- Confirm the current security situation with your embassy and a trusted local contact before and during travel, given the Level 4 Do Not Travel advisory
Safety information
Register with your embassy's travel program before departure if one exists for your nationality
Arrange a trusted local driver/fixer in advance rather than relying on ad hoc transport
Avoid the Green Zone perimeter, protests, and any large public gathering
Carry passport copies and keep the original secure at your hotel
Share your itinerary and check in daily with someone outside Iraq
Maintain comprehensive travel and medical evacuation insurance rated for a Do-Not-Travel destination
Frequently asked questions
Is Baghdad safe to visit in 2026?
Baghdad has ongoing, serious security risks including terrorism, sporadic armed conflict, and the possibility of rapid escalation tied to wider regional tensions. The city's Green Zone (International Zone), which houses government and diplomatic facilities, has been breached more than once in 2026. Emergency services: police at 104.
What is the best time to visit Baghdad?
The best time to visit Baghdad is November. Baghdad sits on a flat alluvial plain with a hot desert climate (Koppen BWh). Summers (June-September) are extremely hot and almost rainless, with highs regularly reaching 43-47C (109-117F). Winters (
What currency is used in Baghdad?
The currency in Baghdad is the Iraqi Dinar (IQD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Baghdad?
The main language(s) spoken in Baghdad: Arabic (official), Kurdish (official, nationally). In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Baghdad?
The top attractions in Baghdad include National Museum of Iraq, Al-Mutanabbi Street, Al-Shaheed Monument (Martyr's Memorial), Baghdad Zoo, and Al-Zawraa Park. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
Explore Baghdad by city
The cities below have their own guides — hotels, attractions and where to eat, in depth.