🕌 Baghdad
The Heart of Iraq | Capital of Ancient Civilisations
Al-Kadhimiya Shrine
One of Baghdad’s most sacred sites with stunning golden domes
Baghdad by Night
The vibrant capital comes alive with lights and energy
Discover Baghdad Through Our Tours
🏛️ Historic & Cultural Tourism
Explore Baghdad’s rich history spanning thousands of years, from ancient Mesopotamia to the Islamic Golden Age.
- Al-Mustansiriya Madrasah (13th century Islamic university)
- Abbasid Palace & Baghdad Museum
- Mutanabbi Street (historic literary district)
- Tigris Riverfront & cultural landmarks
- Traditional souqs and markets
🕌 Religious Tourism
Baghdad is home to some of Islam’s most sacred shrines, attracting millions of pilgrims annually, especially during peak religious seasons.
- Al-Kadhimiya Shrine (Imam Musa al-Kadhim & Imam Muhammad al-Jawad)
- Abu Hanifa Mosque in Al-Adhamiyah
- Gateway to Karbala, Najaf, and Samarra
- Peak Seasons: Muharram, Ramadan, Arbaeen
- Year-round pilgrimage opportunities
Baghdad – The Beating Heart of Iraq
Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, stands as one of the world’s most historically significant and culturally rich cities. Established in the 8th century as the jewel of the Abbasid Caliphate, Baghdad became the centre of science, philosophy, literature, and trade — a place where the world’s greatest minds gathered and where the foundations of modern knowledge were shaped.
Today, Baghdad remains a vibrant metropolis — dynamic, diverse, and full of life. Its bustling streets, ancient architecture, and deeply rooted traditions make it a city that never sleeps. For travellers seeking a journey through both history and modernity, Baghdad offers an unforgettable experience shaped by hospitality, resilience, and culture.
A Brief History of Baghdad
✨ The Birth of a Golden City
Baghdad was founded in 762 AD by Caliph Al-Mansur, who envisioned a perfect circular city — a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and urban planning. Within decades, Baghdad became the centre of the Islamic Golden Age, attracting scholars, poets, astronomers, doctors, and philosophers from across the world.
The legendary House of Wisdom (Bayt al-Hikma) stood here, a world-renowned institution where scholars translated works from Greek, Persian, Indian, and other civilisations into Arabic, preserving and expanding humanity’s knowledge.
During this era, Baghdad earned its title: “The City of Peace” (Madinat al-Salam)
Al-Mustansiriya School
13th-century Abbasid university, one of the world’s oldest
Traditional Architecture
Beautiful arched courtyards reflecting Baghdad’s heritage
📚 Cultural and Intellectual Legacy
Baghdad was home to countless influential figures whose ideas shaped the world. Some of the most notable include:
Al-Kindi
The father of Arab philosophy, known for blending Greek thought with Islamic understanding.
Al-Khwarizmi
The mathematician whose work on algebra and algorithms laid foundations for modern mathematics and computer science.
Al-Jahiz
One of the greatest prose writers in Arabic literature.
Harun al-Rashid
The Abbasid Caliph whose reign inspired stories in “One Thousand and One Nights,” linking Baghdad forever with tales of wonder and imagination.
Baghdad became a symbol of learning, refinement, and global connectivity — a legacy still felt today.
🌆 Baghdad Today — A Modern, Living Metropolis
Despite the challenges of recent decades, Baghdad today is a city reborn. It is lively, safe in many districts, culturally rich, and full of hospitality. Visitors can wander through historic alleyways, modern cafés, bustling souks, and riverside promenades along the Tigris.
What makes modern Baghdad unique:
- ✓ A nightlife that continues until late, especially in areas like Abu Nawas and Al-Mansour
- ✓ A cultural scene with galleries, museums, bookstores, and traditional craft markets
- ✓ Historic districts such as Al-Kadhimiyah and Al-Azamiyah, each with deep religious and cultural significance
- ✓ A blend of ancient heritage with modern energy
For travellers seeking authenticity, Baghdad offers a city untouched by mass tourism — a place where every street has a story.
Greater Baghdad – Key Districts & Cultural Areas
🕌 Al-Kadhimiyah
A spiritual city-within-a-city, home to the Imam al-Kadhim Shrine and historic markets.
🕌 Al-Azamiyah
A culturally rich Sunni district known for the Abu Hanifa Mosque and traditional eateries.
☕ Al-Mansour District
Modern Baghdad’s stylish heart — cafés, restaurants, galleries, and vibrant nightlife.
🏛️ Al-Rusafa
The old eastern bank of Baghdad: souks, heritage streets, and historic buildings.
🏙️ Al-Karkh
The western bank with many administrative, cultural, and modern institutions.
🏘️ Sadr City
A dense, bustling district that represents Baghdad’s working-class energy and urban character.
🌾 Abu Ghraib Area
Known for its agriculture and rural surroundings, offering a look at the countryside of Baghdad.
Experience Iraqi Culture & Hospitality
50 Must-Visit Areas & Landmarks in Baghdad
🏛️ Historical & Cultural Landmarks
1. Al-Mustansiriya School
A 13th-century Abbasid university and one of the oldest educational institutions in the world, showcasing exquisite Islamic architecture.
2. Baghdad National Museum (Iraq Museum)
Home to Iraq’s greatest archaeological treasures, including Sumerian, Babylonian, Assyrian, and Abbasid artefacts.
3. Abbasid Palace
A rare surviving jewel of Abbasid architecture with elegant brickwork, arched halls, and a historic riverside setting.
4. Assyrian Gallery – National Museum
A dedicated section displaying colossal Assyrian statues, reliefs, and artefacts from ancient Mesopotamian kingdoms.
5. Baghdad Clock Tower at Qushla
A historic Ottoman clock tower overlooking Mutanabbi Street, symbolising Baghdad’s cultural identity.
6. Qushla Ottoman Barracks
A heritage complex once used for Ottoman military training, now a cultural hub with events and art exhibitions.
7. Baghdad Wall Remnants
The surviving sections of the city’s medieval fortifications, offering insight into Baghdad’s ancient defensive system.
8. Beit al-Hikma (House of Wisdom) – Historical Site
The spiritual birthplace of the Islamic Golden Age, where scholars once translated and preserved global knowledge.
9. Archaeological Site of Ancient Baghdad (Round City)
The historical centre of Al-Mansur’s circular city, the original heart of Baghdad’s 8th-century urban design.
10. Museum of Popular Heritage
A charming museum showcasing Baghdadi traditions, crafts, clothing, and daily life through the centuries.
🕌 Religious & Spiritual Sites
11. Al-Kadhimiya Holy Shrine
One of the most sacred Shia holy sites, known for its golden domes, spiritual atmosphere, and bustling surrounding markets.
12. Al-Azamiyah – Abu Hanifa Mosque
A major Sunni religious landmark dedicated to Imam Abu Hanifa, featuring serene courtyards and rich scholarly history.
13. Al-Qishla Mosque
A historic mosque within the Qishla square, known for its community gatherings and traditional feel.
14. Haydar Khana Mosque
A centuries-old mosque on al-Rasheed Street famous for its unique minaret and deep cultural significance.
15. Al-Khulafa Mosque & Minaret
One of Baghdad’s oldest surviving Abbasid structures, with a distinctive spiral-patterned minaret.
16. Armenian Orthodox Church of Saint Gregory
A beautiful heritage church reflecting the city’s historic Armenian community and multicultural identity.
17. Mandean Temple – Tigris Riverside
A spiritual site for Iraq’s ancient Mandean community, known for their river-based purification rituals.
18. Latin Church in Karada
A peaceful Christian church representing Baghdad’s diverse religious tapestry.
19. Chaldean Catholic Cathedral of St. Joseph
A historic cathedral that showcases Iraq’s deep-rooted Christian heritage.
20. Sayid Idris Shrine
A revered spiritual site tucked within old Baghdad streets, offering a quiet reflective atmosphere.
🛍️ Famous Streets, Markets & Districts
21. Mutanabbi Street
Baghdad’s famous book street — a cultural landmark filled with bookstores, cafés, poets, and artists.
22. Al-Rasheed Street
One of Baghdad’s oldest and most historic streets, known for its colonial-era buildings and nostalgic charm.
23. Shorja Market
The city’s largest traditional market, overflowing with spices, textiles, perfumes, and authentic Baghdadi commerce.
24. Al-Saadoun Street
A lively street with hotels, cafés, theatres, and local shops — a central artery of modern Baghdad.
25. Abu Nawas Street
A picturesque promenade along the Tigris River, popular for restaurants, outdoor walks, and family gatherings.
26. Karada District
A vibrant shopping district known for clothing boutiques, modern cafés, nightlife spots, and diverse communities.
27. Zayouna District
A relaxed neighbourhood offering Western-style cafés, restaurants, and lower-traffic strolling environments.
28. A’arasat Al-Hindiya District
A trendy upscale area filled with cafés, lounges, restaurants, and modern urban life.
29. Al-Mansour District
One of Baghdad’s most prestigious neighbourhoods known for dining, shopping, and high-end modern culture.
30. Al-Harithiya Market
A local favourite known for fresh foods, traditional goods, and an authentic glimpse of everyday life.
🎨 Museums & Cultural Centers
31. Baghdad Museum of Modern Art
Showcases contemporary Iraqi art from celebrated painters and sculptors.
32. Dar Al-Mada Cultural Center
A cultural hub hosting lectures, book events, and artistic gatherings.
33. Baghdad Cultural Center
A restored landmark promoting arts, music, exhibitions, and community events.
34. Baghdad Heritage Museum (Qishla)
A charming display of old Baghdad life, costumes, and historical photographs.
35. National Library and Archives
A historic institution preserving Iraq’s manuscripts, books, and cultural memory.
36. Al-Kindi Cultural Center
A modern venue for exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events.
🌳 Parks, Nature & River Landmarks
37. Al-Zawra Park
Baghdad’s largest public park, perfect for families, with green spaces and attractions.
38. Baghdad Zoo
A well-known zoo located within Zawra Park, home to a variety of species.
39. Dream City Amusement Park
A family amusement complex featuring rides and entertainment.
40. Sheikh Marouf Cemetery & Gardens
A historical cemetery with peaceful surrounding greenery and contemplative spaces.
41. Tigris River Boat Tour
A relaxing way to experience Baghdad’s skyline and riverside life.
42. Islands of Baghdad Project
A leisure area featuring small islands, cafés, and outdoor activities along the Tigris.
43. Green Zone River Banks (permitted areas)
A scenic and secure area with river access and views of government buildings.
🏙️ Modern Baghdad & Lifestyle Attractions
44. Baghdad Mall
A major modern shopping mall with international brands, restaurants, and entertainment.
45. Al-Mansour Mall
A popular mall in Mansour district with shops, cinemas, and cafés.
46. Babylon Mall
A contemporary shopping destination with a modern Iraqi design.
47. Al-Shaab Stadium
One of Baghdad’s main football stadiums and a hub for sports culture.
48. Al-Firdos Square
A symbolic modern landmark known for its historical political significance.
49. Iraqi Fashion House
A creative centre showcasing traditional and modern Iraqi fashion design.
50. Science & Technology Museum
An educational museum featuring exhibits on engineering, innovation, and Iraqi scientific achievements.
Explore Beyond Baghdad
Why Travellers Choose Baghdad With Our Services
Local experts to guide, translate, and ensure fair pricing
Safe transportation and trusted drivers
Authentic cultural experiences curated by Iraqis who know the city intimately
Access to hidden gems not found in typical tourist guides
Immersive storytelling and historical context
Experiences with genuine Iraqi hospitality
Travellers will not only see Baghdad — they will feel Baghdad.
Practical Information for Visiting Baghdad
🌡️ Best Time to Visit
October to April: Pleasant weather (15-25°C)
Avoid: June-August (extreme heat, 40-50°C)
Peak Religious Seasons: Muharram, Ramadan, Arbaeen
✈️ Getting There
Airport: Baghdad International Airport (BGW)
From UK: Connecting flights via Istanbul, Amman, or Dubai
Transfer: Private airport pickup included in our tours
🏨 Accommodation
4-Star Hotels: Available throughout the city
Areas: Karrada, Mansour, near Kadhimiya
Booking: Arranged through our tour packages
🛂 Visa Requirements
UK/EU Citizens: Visa required
Processing: We handle visa arrangements (£80)
Duration: Typically 2-3 weeks
Apply for Visa →
🚖 Getting Around
Inter-city: Included in our tour packages
Within Baghdad: Private hire/taxi (not included)
Duration to Other Cities: Karbala (2h), Najaf (2.5h), Samarra (2.5h)
💷 Currency & Costs
Currency: Iraqi Dinar (IQD)
Cards: Limited acceptance, carry cash
ATMs: Available in major areas
Typical Daily Costs: £20-40 for meals & extras
