Samarra

Samarra, once the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate, is a priceless historical treasure on the banks of the Tigris River. The city is famous for its unique Malwiya Minaret that soars into the sky, attracting visitors from all over the world to explore its remaining ruins that tell stories from the golden ages of Islamic civilization.

The famous Malwiya Minaret in Samarra

How do I get to Samarra from Baghdad?

Getting to Samarra from Baghdad is relatively straightforward, with the most common option being to take a shared taxi from the "Alawi North" garage in Baghdad. The journey of about 125 kilometers takes approximately two hours. A day trip from Baghdad is the most common way for tourists to visit, as accommodation options for foreign tourists in Samarra are very limited. When planning your trip, Visit Iraq recommends coordinating with a reliable driver or tour company to ensure a smooth experience.

Is Samarra safe to visit in 2025?

The security situation in Samarra is complex and requires careful planning. The direct answer is that a visit is possible and relatively safe when the necessary precautions are taken. The city is under the control of local factions, and there are multiple security checkpoints. For this reason, independent travel is absolutely not recommended.

To ensure your safety, you must hire a trusted local guide with experience in handling the security procedures at the checkpoints. Many recent visitors who traveled with specialized guides reported feeling completely safe. Visit Iraq insists that hiring a guide is not just an option, but a necessity for visiting Samarra safely.

What are the most prominent landmarks I should see?

Samarra is rich with historical and religious landmarks that captivate the heart. The most important of these are:

1. The Great Mosque and the Malwiya Minaret: The 52-meter-high spiral minaret is a symbol of the city and one of the most magnificent examples of unique Islamic architecture. You can climb the minaret to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Tigris River.
2. The Al-Askari Shrine: It is one of the most important Shia religious sites in Iraq, containing the tombs of the 10th and 11th Imams, Ali al-Hadi and Hasan al-Askari. It is distinguished by its majestic golden dome and deep spiritual atmosphere.
3. Samarra Archaeological City: This city extends over vast areas along the river and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city includes the remains of the Abbasid Caliphate's palaces such as the "Caliph's Palace" and the "Palace of the Lover."

Panoramic view of the Samarra Archaeological City

What Are Visitors Saying?

To get a real idea of what to expect, Visit Iraq has gathered some impressions from travel blogs and visitor reports.

"A unique historical experience, but it requires a guide"

"Visiting Samarra was an intense but unforgettable experience. The sheer scale of the Malwiya Minaret is breathtaking, and climbing it gives you a view you won't find anywhere else in Iraq. However, you can't just show up. The city is under the control of local factions, and there are checkpoints everywhere. Our guide was absolutely essential; he handled all the permits and discussions with the soldiers. Without him, we would have been turned back."

— Travel blogger, visited in 2024

"A must-visit for history lovers"

"Samarra is a must-visit place for history lovers. The archaeological site is vast, and you feel like you've stepped back into the Abbasid era. The Al-Askari Shrine is a powerful spiritual place. We visited it on a day trip from Baghdad. Be prepared for a long day with a lot of driving and security stops."

— Review from a tour company, 2024

"Tips for visiting: modest dress and patience"

"I was a little nervous about visiting Samarra given the warnings, but my experience was positive. The locals were welcoming, and the historical sites are magnificent. My advice is to dress very conservatively, especially if you plan to visit the shrine. For women, an abaya and headscarf are a must to show respect. The security is tight, but it's there for a reason."

— Testimony of a tourist, 2024

What is the entrance fee and the best time to visit?

The entrance fee for the Malwiya Minaret for foreign visitors is 25,000 Iraqi Dinars. The best time to visit Samarra is during the spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November), when the weather is mild and suitable for exploring the open archaeological sites. Avoid visiting in the summer, when temperatures regularly exceed 40°C.

Architectural details in one of Samarra's ancient palaces

Frequently Asked Questions about visiting Samarra

Do I need a guide to visit Samarra? Yes, absolutely. A guide is essential for navigating through security checkpoints, translating signs, and providing historical context for the sites you visit.

What should I wear in Samarra? Modesty is key. Men should wear long pants and shirts that cover their shoulders. Women should wear loose-fitting clothes that cover their arms and legs, with a headscarf (hijab) being mandatory when visiting religious sites.

Are there hotels in Samarra? Accommodation options for foreign tourists are rare or currently not allowed. Therefore, the best option is to stay in Baghdad and take a day trip.

Can I use credit cards? No, expect to pay cash for everything. Make sure you have enough Iraqi Dinars to cover your expenses.

Is photography allowed? In general, yes. However, there may be restrictions on photography inside the Al-Askari Shrine, and always ask for permission before photographing people.