Why visit
Iraq is Mesopotamia: Babylon, Ur, the shrine cities of Najaf and Karbala, and Baghdad's long literary memory. Iraqi Kurdistan in the north has run its own small tourism scene; conditions elsewhere require careful checking.
Country - Asia
Iraq
culturefoodhistory
How to use this result
Use it as a country shortlist
Iraq works best as a first-pass travel idea. Start with the region, season, and themes on this page, then compare flights, entry rules, safety guidance, and local transport before treating it as a real option.
Compare the capital and side trips
Use Baghdad as the administrative starting point, then check whether the strongest trip idea is actually the capital, a coastal area, a nature route, or another city in Iraq.
At a glance
Location
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
Traveler notes
- Erbil's citadel claims 6,000 years of continuous habitation
- The marshes of southern Iraq, once drained, are UNESCO-listed again
- Check current conditions carefully; access varies by region
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Baghdad, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
- Check opening days. Major sites close on Mondays or Tuesdays in many countries.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about Iraq
What is the capital of Iraq?
Baghdad is the capital of Iraq.
What currency does Iraq use?
Iraq uses the Iraqi dinar (ع.د), ISO code IQD.
What languages are spoken in Iraq?
The primary languages are Arabic, Aramaic and Sorani.
Is Iraq landlocked?
No, Iraq has a coastline.
What countries border Iraq?
Iraq borders Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Türkiye.
What is the international calling code for Iraq?
The calling code is +964.
When is the best time to visit Iraq?
Mar–May, Oct–Nov. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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