Baghdad, Iraq's capital on the Tigris River, blends nearly 1,300 years of Mesopotamian and Islamic history with a still-difficult current security environment; travel here in 2026 requires real preparation and current advisory awareness.
Historical sites
Places where Baghdad's past comes alive.
National Museum of Iraq
Where: Alawi/Salhiya, Karkh
Admission: Adult: Foreign visitors typically 25,000 IQD (~$19); Iraqi nationals approx. 500 IQD (~$0.40) | Child: Reduced or free
Al-Mustansiriya Madrasa
Where: Rusafa, riverside near Al-Mutanabbi Street
Admission: Adult: Nominal fee, approx. 1,000-3,000 IQD (~$0.75-$2) | Child: Free
Al-Qishla (Ottoman Barracks and Clock Tower)
Where: Rusafa, Rasheed Street area
Admission: Adult: Free | Child: Free
Baghdad Central Railway Station
Where: Karkh
Admission: Adult: Free to view exterior | Child: Free
Al-Kadhimiya Shrine
Where: Kadhimiya
Admission: Adult: Free | Child: Free
Ctesiphon (Taq Kasra)
Where: Salman Pak, approximately 35 km southeast of Baghdad
Admission: Adult: Approx. 15,000-25,000 IQD (~$11-$19) for foreign visitors | Child: Reduced
Historic Rasheed Street Arcades
Where: Rusafa
Admission: Adult: Free | Child: Free
Al-Shaheed Monument
Where: Rusafa, near the 14th of July Bridge
Admission: Adult: Grounds free; museum approx. 2,000-5,000 IQD (~$1.50-$4) | Child: Free