Things to do in Northern Iraq
Discover the best attractions and experiences Northern Iraq has to offer
Historic Monuments
Northern Iraq is home to ancient fortifications and cliffside towns that reveal centuries of Kurdish and Mesopotamian history.
Erbil Citadel
An ancient hilltop fortress in the heart of Erbil, UNESCO-listed and surrounded by a living city with centuries of history.
Amedi Fortress
Amediya Fortress sits on a cliff above the plain, offering dramatic views and a window into centuries of settlement.
Shanidar Cave
A famous Neanderthal archaeological site near Erbil, renowned for its early human remains.
Museums
Museums in Iraqi Kurdistan showcase ancient artifacts and modern memorials that trace regional cultures and recent history.
Sulaymaniyah Museum
One of Iraq's oldest museums, housing Mesopotamian artifacts and regional antiquities.
Amna Suraka (Red Prison) Museum
A memorial museum in Sulaymaniyah that documents Kurdish history and human rights.
Duhok Museum
Regional museum in Duhok presenting archaeology and ethnography from the area.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites across the north offer insight into the region's diverse faiths, from Yazidi sacred places to Christian churches.
Lalish Temple
The Yazidi sacred site of Lalish, a long-standing pilgrimage center set in a valley between hills.
St. George Church, Ankawa
A prominent church in Erbil's Ankawa neighborhood, reflecting the region's diverse faiths.
National & Theme Parks
Guarded by mountains and rivers, the Kurdistan region offers several protected areas and scenic outdoor escapes.
Halgurd-Saghir National Park
Conserved mountains and pine forests offering hiking routes and wildlife in the Kurdistan region.
Rawanduz Canyon
A dramatic canyon with towering cliffs and a winding river, popular for viewpoint overlooks.
Dokan Lake
A large reservoir on the Great Zab with calm shores and scenic, boat-friendly surroundings.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant quarters reveal daily life, from historic old towns to cosmopolitan hubs.
Ankawa
A vibrant Christian-Arabic neighborhood in Erbil known for restaurants, cafes and a diverse community.
Erbil Old City
Historic quarter surrounding the Citadel with ancient lanes and weekly markets.
Sulaymaniyah Old City
Historic core of Sulaymaniyah with traditional houses, narrow lanes and lively bazaars.
Free Things to Do
Explore city streets and natural scenery that cost little to nothing but offer rich experiences.
Walk around the Erbil Citadel perimeter
Stroll the slopes and surrounding streets to soak in ancient ambiance without an entry fee.
Stroll the Grand Bazaar, Erbil
Wander through a bustling market with spices, fabrics and daily life on display.
Sunset viewpoints over Rawanduz Canyon
Drive or hike to a viewpoint to watch the canyon glow at dusk.
Gastronomy
Taste the hearty flavors of Kurdish and Iraqi home cooking, from grilled meats to stuffed vegetables.
Kurdish kebab
Grilled skewers and slow-roasted meats served with flatbread and fresh salads.
Dolma
Stuffed vegetables and grape leaves, a comforting staple across the region.
Kurdish biryani
Fragrant spiced rice with meat, a festive dish popular in Kurdistan towns.
Nightlife
Evenings in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah feature relaxed cafes, live music and modern lounges.
Cafes & lounges in Ankawa
Relaxed venues with live music and a cosmopolitan vibe in Erbil's expatriate hub.
City-center pubs and rooftop bars
Casual venues offering city views and evening ambiance in Erbil's downtown.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and local theaters showcase contemporary Kurdish arts.
Kurdish cultural performances
Traditional music, dance and storytelling at cultural centers across the region.
Local theatre and cinema
Indie productions and regional films in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah.
Sports
Outdoor adventures abound, from canyon hikes to lake sports and climbing.
Hiking Rawanduz Canyon
Trek through dramatic cliffs and river gorges along scenic trails.
Kayaking on Dokan Lake
Paddle on calm waters with mountain views and tranquil surroundings.
Rock climbing near Gali Ali Beg
Seasonal climbing routes on canyon cliffs for outdoor enthusiasts.
Off the Track
Step off the beaten path to explore remote towns, hidden waterfalls and sacred sites.
Amadiya Fortress
Explore the perched fortress and ancient stone houses of Amadiya in a remote setting.
Gali Ali Beg waterfall
A scenic waterfall hike away from main tourist routes with lush canyon scenery.
Lalish pilgrimage
Experience Yazidi rites and blessings at Lalish, a uniquely spiritual site.