Things to do in Sulaimaniyah Province
Discover the best attractions and experiences Sulaimaniyah Province has to offer
Historic Monuments
Discover Sulaymaniyah’s historic core and ancient sites that tell the story of the region.
Old City of Slemani
Historic quarter with narrow lanes, traditional houses and a long-standing market heritage.
Ali Pasha Mosque
A historic mosque in the old city with traditional Kurdish design.
Amna Suraka (Red Prison) complex
A historic building turned museum, reflecting recent Kurdish history.
Museums
Delve into the region’s culture, archaeology and history through its best museums.
Sulaymaniyah Museum
One of Iraq’s oldest museums, housing artifacts from Mesopotamia and Kurdistan.
Amna Suraka Museum
Exhibits on Kurdish history and the conflicts that shaped the region.
Religious Monuments
Visit sacred sites across Sulaymaniyah’s multi-faith landscape.
Ali Pasha Mosque
Historic mosque in the old city with traditional Kurdish design.
St. Joseph’s Church (Ainkawa)
A prominent church in the Christian quarter of Sulaymaniyah.
National & Theme Parks
Escape to dramatic mountains and rivers in and around Sulaymaniyah.
Gali Ali Beg Gorge
A spectacular canyon perfect for day hikes and scenic views.
Goizha Mountain Park
Green hillside with trails and viewpoints overlooking the city.
Darbandikhan Dam
Reservoir area with scenic surroundings ideal for picnics and short walks.
Neighborhoods
Explore the distinctive parts of the city that shape Sulaymaniyah’s character.
Ainkawa
A vibrant, multicultural neighborhood known for cafés, restaurants and churches.
Old City Center
Historic core with traditional streets, shops and walking routes.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the city without spending a dinar—easy, scenic and cultural options.
Stroll Sulaymaniyah Friday Market
Browse stalls and soak up the local atmosphere in the city’s vibrant market.
Hike Goizha Mountain
Take a free, scenic hike with city views from the hillside.
Walk the Old City streets
Wander historic lanes and take in traditional architecture.
Gastronomy
Savour Kurdish flavors and regional specialties in Sulaymaniyah’s eateries.
Kurdish kebab and dolma
Smoky grilled kebabs served with aromatic rice and stuffed vegetables.
Traditional Kurdish stews and baklava
Comforting stews followed by flaky desserts to finish.
Tea culture and pastries
Afternoon tea with pastries in local cafés and markets.
Nightlife
Evening spots for relaxed socializing, music and good chow in Sulaymaniyah.
Cafés with live music in Ainkawa
Cozy venues hosting local musicians and performances.
City-center evening cafés
Lively cafés with ambient music and social vibes.
Entertainment
Fun activities and family-friendly options beyond museums.
Chavi Land
A popular family-friendly amusement park with rides and attractions.
Cultural performances at Sulaymaniyah venues
Evening arts and theater events hosted around the city.
Sports
Active pursuits and stadium-style venues for sports fans.
Goizha Mountain hikes
Popular outdoor activity with city views.
Sulaymaniyah Stadium match
Attend a local football match or witness a stadium atmosphere.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the usual routes to discover hidden corners.
Sidakan Valley trek
A scenic valley route offering a rewarding hike and isolation.
Gali Ali Beg Gorge hike
Another dramatic gorge for trekkers seeking rugged scenery.
Qandil Mountains village visit
Remote mountain villages offering a glimpse of rural Kurdistan.