Discover Baghdad, Iraq's historic capital, with a comprehensive guide for new visitors. Learn about the best accommodations, transportation options, and sites to visit in 2026.
When is the best time to visit Baghdad for the first time?
Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, offers a unique experience for new visitors where Islamic civilization meets modern civil ruins. The best times to visit Baghdad are in the spring (March to early May) or in the autumn (September to October) due to the extreme heat in the summer [1]. The city features a quieter atmosphere during these periods, allowing for comfortable tours of historic landmarks such as the National Museum of Baghdad and Mutanabbi Street.
What are the best places to stay in Baghdad for new visitors?
For first-time visitors to Baghdad, there is a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and tastes. Among the recommended hotels:
- Babylon Rotana Hotel: One of the high-end hotels in Baghdad, offering excellent services and a central location [2].
- Coral Baghdad Hotel: Has received good ratings from visiting families and is conveniently located for visiting tourist attractions [2].
- The Plaza Hotel: Considered one of the good options in central Baghdad.
- Babylon Hotel Apartment Complex: Suitable for long stays with comfortable interiors [3].
For a limited budget, visitors can consider options like Qasr Al-Baraket Hotel (about 40,000 IQD), which provides a clean and comfortable environment at reasonable prices [4].
How can I get around Baghdad as a new visitor?
Currently, there is no reliable public transport system in Baghdad, so taxis are the main means of transportation for visitors [5]. However, it is important to note that the massive Baghdad Metro project is underway, and is expected to become operational in 2029 [6].
- Taxis: The most common choice, and hotel staff can help you arrange one.
- Public Buses: Not always reliable, and can be difficult for new visitors to use.
- Rental Cars: Available, but it is better to use a driver accustomed to the city's roads.
- Airport Transfer: It is possible to arrange transport from Baghdad International Airport via taxis or hotel services.
What tourist attractions must be visited in Baghdad?
For first-time visitors to Baghdad, there are many landmarks that offer a glimpse into the city's cultural and historical richness:
- National Museum of Baghdad: Contains artifacts from ancient civilizations such as Sumer, Akkad, Babylon, and Assyria [7].
- Mutanabbi Street: A famous street for the book market, housing the famous Shabandar Café which dates back more than a century [7].
- Al-Shaheed Monument: Built in the eighties as a memorial to the martyrs of the Iraq-Iran war, and is an important modern architectural symbol [7].
- Al-Khadra Mosque and other historic mosques: Represent traditional Islamic architecture.
- Al-Safafeer Market: A traditional market for buying handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Al-Zawra Park: A suitable place for families and entertainment.
What are important tips for new Baghdad visitors?
- Clothing: Women should cover shoulders and legs in public places, and wear a headscarf when visiting religious sites [8].
- Safety: Baghdad contains a large number of security checkpoints, and these procedures must be respected [8].
- Religious Respect: Respect the five daily prayer times, and avoid loud activities during them.
- Dealing with Locals: Iraqis are known for their hospitality and appreciation for visitors who respect their traditions.
- Payment Method: It is preferable to use US Dollars or Euros instead of credit cards [4].
- Photography: Ask for permission before photographing people or military or government sites.
Sources
- Laure Wanders - Backpacking Iraq Guide - https://www.laurewanders.com/backpacking-iraq/
- Trip Advisor - Best Hotels in Baghdad - https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g294001-Baghdad_Baghdad_Province-Hotels.html
- Travel Setu - Baghdad Tourism Guide - https://travelsetu.com/guide/baghdad-tourism
- Laure Wanders - Traveling in Iraq - https://www.laurewanders.com/backpacking-iraq/
- PGS Fly - Public Transport in Baghdad - https://www.flypgs.com/en/city-guide/public-transport-in-baghdad
- Wikipedia - Baghdad Metro - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baghdad_Metro
- Just Wanderlust - Places to Visit in Baghdad - https://justwanderlustblog.com/places-to-visit-in-baghdad-iraq/
- Travel2Iraq - Essential Travel Tips - https://travel2iraq.co.uk/essential-travel-tips-for-first-time-visitors-to-iraq/
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❓Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to frequently asked questions about the content above
It is possible for women to travel to [Baghdad](/places/baghdad), but it is better not to travel alone, especially for the first time, and it is recommended to travel in groups or with a local guide.
The best time to visit [Baghdad](/places/baghdad) is in the spring (March to May) or in the autumn (September to October) to avoid the extreme heat in the summer.
[Baghdad](/places/baghdad) can pose security risks, so caution should be exercised, avoiding travel at night in some areas, and staying updated on the latest security updates.
Visitors need a pre-arranged e-visa, as visas on arrival are no longer offered as of mid-2025.
The primary mode of transport is taxis, but the [Baghdad](/places/baghdad) Metro is planned to start operation in 2029, which will improve public transport.
Among the important places: the National Museum of [Baghdad](/places/baghdad), Mutanabbi Street, Al-Shaheed Monument, historic mosques, and Al-Zawra Park.
