Erbil

Discover the world of the ancient Sumerians, Assyrians and Babylonians, starting in Erbil – Iraq’s fourth largest city. Located between two rivers and lined with minarets, museums and public parks, the Kurdish capital offers fertile ground for further travel through the “cradle of civilisation”.

At the time of writing, there was unrest in Iraq. Please check with your embassy to find out about any warnings and restrictions before you travel.

Top things to see and do

• Walk around the ancient Citadel of Erbil, believed to be one of the oldest continually inhabited places on Earth.
• Hunt for Kurdish antiques and other bric-a-brac at the Qaysari Bazaar in the city centre.
• Feast on shawarma, falafel, tabbouleh and other traditional favourites in a local Erbil cafe.
• Admire the waterfall at Gali Ali Beg – an oasis of natural beauty just a short distance from the city of Erbil.
• Explore the ruins of Babylon, the legendary capital of ancient Mesopotamia, located in present-day Al-Hillah.

Tips for travellers

If travelling south to Babylon or Baghdad, don’t miss the Ziggurat of Ur – a mighty pyramidal structure and one of the last remaining relics of ancient Sumer.