Why visit
Baghdad is the capital of Iraq. A practical starting point for museums, food, and onward routes into the country.
Iraq at a glance
Country center
33.0°, 44.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
438,317 km²
169,235 mi²
Country population
45.5 million
104/km²
Subregion
Western Asia
Currency
Iraqi dinar (ع.د)
IQD
Dial
+964
Languages
Arabic, Aramaic, Sorani
Demonym
Iraqi
Internet
.iq
UN
Member state
ISO code
IQ / IRQ
Where in the world
33.0° · 44.0°
Iraq
Open in Google Maps ↗
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world · CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Iraq contains the ancient land of Mesopotamia: the "cradle of civilization" where writing, the wheel, and the city-state were invented.
- Iraq's Marshlands, once drained by Saddam Hussein, have been partially restored and are now a UNESCO site.
- The Umayyad-era city of Baghdad was, in the 9th century, the largest city in the world: home to the House of Wisdom scholarly translation academy.
Bordering Iraq
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Baghdad
What currency is used in Baghdad?
Baghdad uses the Iraqi dinar (ع.د), ISO code IQD.
What languages are spoken in Iraq?
The primary languages are Arabic, Aramaic and Sorani.
What is the international calling code for Iraq?
The calling code is +964.
Other Asia destinations
Petra
Petra is the Rose City carved into sandstone. The Treasury (from Indiana Jones), the Monastery at the top of 800 steps, and the High Place of Sacrifice.
Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv is Mediterranean beach city. Bauhaus architecture (UNESCO), Carmel Market, Jaffa's old port, and nightlife that starts late and ends at sunrise.
Muscat
Muscat is the Grand Mosque, Mutrah Corniche and souq, Royal Opera House, and a base for wadi and Nizwa fort day-trips along the Batinah coast.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan is a destination in Asia known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Armenia
Armenia is a destination in Asia layered with historical sites and heritage routes. Plan an itinerary around ruins, old quarters, monuments, and museums.
Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan is a destination in Asia known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.