IraqIraq Highlights: 7-Day Autumn & Winter Tour
Embark on “Iraq Highlights: 7-Day Autumn & Winter Tour”, a carefully crafted journey through Mesopotamia’s most emblematic sites. Over seven days, you’ll traverse from the bustling streets of Baghdad to the sacred shrines of Karbala, the ancient cities of Babylon and Ur, the serene marshlands of southern Iraq, and the majestic ruins of Samarra and Ctesiphon. Along the way, enjoy expert guidance, private transportation, comfortable 3–4★ accommodations, daily breakfasts, all entry fees, airport transfers, and a traditional boat ride in the marshes
Tour Overview
Dates & Prices
Tour Overview
Dates & Prices
Route Overview
7 Days
15 Person
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 · Old Baghdad Discovery
Highlights: Abbasid Palace · Mustansiriya Madrasa · Coppersmith Markets · Al-Mutanabbi Street · Firdos & Tahrir Squares Description: Begin your adventure in the heart of Baghdad. Tour the grand Abbasid Palace, then admire the intricate brickwork of the 13th-century Mustansiriya Madrasa. Wander through the bustling coppersmith souks and the historic book stalls of Al-Mutanabbi Street. After a traditional Iraqi lunch, reflect at Firdos Square (site of the 2003 statue toppling) and stroll through the vibrant Tahrir Square.
Day 2 · Babylon & Karbala
Highlights: Ruins of Babylon · Shrine of Imam Hussein · Karbala Market Description: Depart Baghdad for the legendary ruins of Babylon. Explore the reconstructed Ishtar Gate and Saddam’s Babylonian palace, Continue to Karbala for a lunch of local specialties before experiencing the deeply spiritual Shrine of Imam Hussein. End the day browsing Karbala’s lively markets and settle in for an overnight stay.
Day 3 · Ancient Cities: Uruk & Ur
Highlights: Uruk Ruins · Ziggurat of Ur Description: Travel south toward Nasiriyah, stopping first at Uruk—home to the world’s first urban civilization. Wander among its weathered wall fragments and colossal temple ruins. Proceed to the ancient city of Ur to marvel at the famed Ziggurat of Ur, a testament to Sumer’s architectural prowess. Overnight in Nasiriyah.
Day 4 · Marsh Arabs & Return to Baghdad
Highlights: Marshland Boat Ride · Description: Start with a traditional breakfast in the tranquil reed-lined waterways of the Mesopotamian Marshes. Glide by water buffalo and spot endemic birdlife as marsh Arabs demonstrate centuries-old lifestyles. then returning to Baghdad for the night.
Day 5 · Central Mesopotamia & Modern Memorials
Highlights: Iraq Museum · Al-Shaheed Monument · Dur-Kurigalzu Ziggurat Description: Delve into Iraq’s 7,000-year legacy at the Iraq Museum, then pay respects at the striking Al-Shaheed (“Martyrs’”) Monument. Venture west to Dur-Kurigalzu to ascend its grand ziggurat and learn about Kassite-era Mesopotamia. If time allows, sample modern Baghdad’s cafés and contemporary art scene. Overnight in Baghdad.
Day 6 · Samarra
Highlights: Great Mosque of Samarra · Spiral Minaret · Abu Dulaf Mosque Description: Journey north to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Samarra. Stand beneath the sweeping façade of the Great Mosque, climb the iconic Malwiya (spiral) Minaret, and explore the graceful arches of Abu Dulaf Mosque. Return to Baghdad in the evening for your final overnight.
Day 7 · Sassanian Gateways & Farewell
Highlights: Bab al-Wastani · Arch of Ctesiphon · One Thousand & One Nights Monument Description: On your last morning, visit Bab al-Wastani—the remnant gate of the Abbasid Round City—then admire the soaring brick arch of Ctesiphon, capital of the Sassanian Empire. Conclude with a photo stop at the One Thousand & One Nights Monument before sharing a farewell lunch reflecting on seven unforgettable days in Iraq.
Tour starts & ends: Baghdad
Group size: 7–15 people
Price: Per person (twin room); single supplement extra $250
Accommodation: Primarily 4★ hotels, with select 3★ properties depending on location for 7 nights.
Included meals:
Breakfast daily
Group lunches ordered locally and shared (additional cost)
Visa: Online visa required (no visa on arrival). Contact us for visa support.
Dress code:
Modest attire required in Najaf and Karbala
Comfortable, modest clothing elsewhere
Payments:
30% deposit via bank transfer
Remaining balance payable in cash on arrival (USD)
Inclusions
Expert guide for the entire journey
Private modern air‑conditioned car & professional driver
7 nights’ accommodation in twin rooms with breakfast
Entry fees to all listed sites (waterfalls, caves, festivals, temples, etc.)
Not Included
Iraq entry visa and related fees
International airfare
Lunches and dinners (only breakfast is included)
Airport transfers (pickup & drop‑off) – available for an extra charge
Personal expenses (e.g., shopping, laundry, phone calls)
Tips