How to Travel Between Cities in Iraq – A Complete Guide

Travelling between cities in Iraq is a fascinating experience that allows you to explore the rich culture, history, and stunning landscapes of this ancient land. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, knowing how to move from one city to another can help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Iraq is home to major cities like Baghdad, Basra, Erbil, Mosul, and Karbala, each offering its own unique attractions. In this guide, we will explain the different modes of transport you can use to travel between cities in Iraq, the best routes, and some tips to make your journey safe and comfortable.

1. Modes of Transportation in Iraq

a. Domestic Flights

Domestic flights are one of the quickest and most convenient ways to travel between major cities in Iraq. Airports in Baghdad, Erbil, and Basra offer regular flights, and this can be an excellent choice if you’re travelling long distances. The flights are relatively affordable, and airlines such as Iraqi Airways provide frequent services.

For travellers flying from the UK or other international locations, you might want to check out our guide on how to travel to Iraq from the UK.

Key Airports:

• Baghdad International Airport (BGW)
• Erbil International Airport (EBL)
• Basra International Airport (BSR)

b. Bus Services

Buses are a common and budget-friendly way to travel between cities in Iraq. They are available in most large cities and connect to nearby towns and smaller cities as well. Although the bus rides can be long, they offer an opportunity to see the changing landscapes of Iraq. Many buses are air-conditioned and provide a reasonably comfortable ride.

Popular routes include:

• Baghdad to Karbala
• Baghdad to Basra
• Erbil to Mosul

If you’re planning on travelling by bus, it’s a good idea to check out budget travel in Iraq to estimate costs and plan your trip accordingly.

c. Private Car Hire

Hiring a private car is another popular method of travelling between cities. It offers flexibility and privacy, allowing you to stop at points of interest along the way. Car rental services are available in major cities like Baghdad and Erbil, and you can also hire a driver if you’re not comfortable navigating on your own.

A road trip can offer the chance to see hidden gems, like the Ziggurat of Ur or the marshlands of Southern Iraq. If you’re interested in these destinations, consider reading our guides on historical sites and natural wonders of Iraq.

2. Popular Routes and Distances

Iraq’s cities are well-connected by road, and while the infrastructure is not perfect, it’s improving every year. Below are some of the most common travel routes between key cities:

Route	Distance	Estimated Travel Time by Car	Key Attractions
Baghdad to Karbala	100 km (62 miles)	1.5 – 2 hours	Karbala is a sacred city for pilgrims and is famous for the Shrine of Imam Husayn. Learn more here.
Baghdad to Basra	550 km (342 miles)	7 – 8 hours	Basra is a port city with rich history. Explore more about Basra here.
Erbil to Mosul	90 km (56 miles)	1.5 – 2 hours	Mosul, known for its historical significance, is close to Nineveh. Check out the Mosul travel guide.
Baghdad to Erbil	350 km (217 miles)	5 – 6 hours	Erbil is a modern city with an ancient heart. Read more about Erbil here.
Basra to Najaf	450 km (280 miles)	6 – 7 hours	Najaf is a holy city for Shia Muslims. Check our Najaf guide.

If you’re visiting during religious holidays like Ashura or Arbaeen, be prepared for large crowds, especially on routes to Karbala and Najaf. These times are considered high season, so planning ahead is crucial. Find more about these events in our guide to religious tourism.

3. Tips for Safe and Comfortable Travel

Travelling in Iraq can be a safe and rewarding experience if you follow some key tips:

a. Plan Your Route in Advance

Given Iraq’s large size and varied road conditions, it’s essential to plan your route before you set out. For example, some roads between smaller cities may be less well-maintained, and in rural areas, mobile reception might be limited.

• Always carry a map or download offline maps on your phone.
• Research your destinations by checking our complete guide to visiting Iraq.

b. Hire a Local Guide

Hiring a local guide can be invaluable, especially if you’re travelling to cities like Mosul or remote areas like the Marshlands. A guide can help you navigate the local customs, provide historical context, and make your trip safer.

If you’re planning to explore off-the-beaten-path locations, consider reading our essential travel tips for first-time visitors.

c. Safety Precautions

While travel between major cities is relatively safe, it’s always good to stay aware of local updates. You can contact your embassy for the latest safety information or check local news.

Additionally:

• Carry copies of your travel documents.
• Avoid travelling at night, especially in rural areas.
• Stay in touch with your accommodation or travel agency if there are any changes in your plans.

For detailed safety advice, visit our guide to safe travel in Iraq.

4. Bus and Train Services in Iraq

a. Bus Networks

As mentioned earlier, buses are a common and inexpensive way to travel. They are available from city centres and bus terminals and often travel to neighbouring towns. The buses run on fixed schedules, so make sure to check timings in advance.

A few bus companies operate between Baghdad, Basra, Erbil, and Karbala. Depending on the service, some buses are more comfortable than others, with amenities like air conditioning and Wi-Fi.

For budget-conscious travellers, buses are ideal for getting around. If you want to learn more about keeping your trip within budget, check out our budget travel tips.

b. Train Services

Iraq Railways offers train services between Baghdad and Basra, which is a relaxing way to travel. Though not the fastest option, it allows you to enjoy scenic views along the way. Train travel is also relatively affordable.

5. Planning Your Journey

When planning a journey between cities in Iraq, consider these key factors:

• Weather: Check the seasonal highlights and weather conditions in each city. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in Basra and Baghdad. You can read more about Iraq’s weather in our guide to the best time to visit.
• Cultural Events: Religious and cultural festivals, such as Ashura and Arbaeen, can affect the availability of transportation and accommodation. During these times, it’s important to book everything in advance. Our travel guide for religious tourists will provide more information.
• Tourist Attractions: Every city in Iraq has unique attractions. For instance, you can explore Baghdad’s historic sites or visit the ancient ruins of Babylon. For more ideas on what to do, check out our Baghdad tourist guide and guide to Babylon.

Conclusion

Travelling between cities in Iraq can be a rich and rewarding experience, giving you the chance to explore the country’s deep historical roots and modern culture. With multiple transportation options—from buses and trains to private cars and flights—you can plan your journey according to your budget and preferences.

Before you set out, make sure you are well-prepared by reading up on safety precautions, local customs, and transport options. If you’re looking for more information on how to make your trip smooth and enjoyable, check out our full range of travel resources on Travel2Iraq.co.uk.

Whether you’re exploring the historical Ziggurat of Ur, enjoying the bustling streets of Baghdad, or relaxing in the natural beauty of Iraq’s marshlands, this guide will help you navigate your way between cities and make the most of your adventure.

Mode of Transportation	Route	Distance	Estimated Travel Time	Cost	Notes
Domestic Flights	Baghdad to Basra	550 km (342 miles)	1 hour 15 minutes	£100 – £150	Fastest option; book in advance for lower fares. Flights available between major cities like Baghdad, Basra, and Erbil.
Domestic Flights	Erbil to Baghdad	350 km (217 miles)	1 hour	£80 – £120	Frequent flights; best for saving time when travelling across long distances.
Bus	Baghdad to Karbala	100 km (62 miles)	1.5 – 2 hours	£5 – £10	Affordable and widely available; may take longer due to traffic during religious pilgrimages.
Bus	Baghdad to Basra	550 km (342 miles)	10 – 12 hours	£15 – £30	Scenic route but time-consuming; a good option for budget travellers.
Private Car Hire	Erbil to Mosul	90 km (56 miles)	1.5 – 2 hours	£50 – £100 (per day)	Ideal for flexibility and privacy; recommended for exploring sites like Nineveh or historic places in Mosul.
Private Car Hire	Baghdad to Basra	550 km (342 miles)	7 – 8 hours	£70 – £150 (per day)	Comfortable option for long trips; you can stop at various points of interest along the way.
Train	Baghdad to Basra	550 km (342 miles)	10 – 12 hours	£10 – £15	Scenic option; slower but a relaxing way to travel.
Train	Baghdad to Karbala	100 km (62 miles)	2 hours	£5 – £10	A budget-friendly option for religious tourists; check train schedules in advance.
Bus	Erbil to Mosul	90 km (56 miles)	2 hours	£10 – £15	Popular route; buses are available frequently.
Shared Taxi	Najaf to Karbala	75 km (47 miles)	1 hour	£20 – £30 (per ride)	Shared taxis are common for short distances between religious cities like Najaf and Karbala.
Shared Taxi	Baghdad to Najaf	160 km (99 miles)	2 – 3 hours	£30 – £50	Convenient for short trips; taxis can be hired from city centres.
Bus	Basra to Najaf	450 km (280 miles)	6 – 7 hours	£20 – £30	Good for budget travellers; may take longer depending on road conditions.
Private Car Hire	Baghdad to Erbil	350 km (217 miles)	5 – 6 hours	£70 – £150 (per day)	Best for comfort and flexibility; great for stopping at tourist sites along the route.