Explore Iraq — eSIM Data Plans & Travel Guide
Travel guide for Iraq with instant eSIM data plans from DataOnly. No SIM swapping, no roaming fees.
Must-see in Iraq
Ancient City of Babylon
Wander the reconstructed ruins of Nebuchadnezzar II's fabled ancient capital, including the iconic Ishtar Gate replica and the remains of imperial palaces.
Erbil Citadel
Ascend the UNESCO-listed ancient mound that has been continuously inhabited for over 6,000 years, offering sweeping panoramas over modern Erbil.
Ziggurat of Ur
Marvel at the monumental, stepped Sumerian temple originally built during the Early Bronze Age, one of the best-preserved ziggurats in the world.
Local food to try in Iraq
Masgouf
Iraq's national dish features freshwater carp seasoned with turmeric and spices, slow-grilled vertically beside open fruitwood flames.
Iraqi Dolma
A rich and fragrant variation of stuffed vegetables, featuring spiced lamb, rice, and pomegranate molasses wrapped in tender onions and vine leaves.
Kebab Erbil
Plump, spiced minced lamb patties infused with herbs, onions, and sumac, grilled over hot charcoal skewers and served with fresh sumac bread.
Practical tips for Iraq
- Iraq is heavily cash-based; carry crisp, undamaged US Dollars (post-2013 bills) to exchange for Iraqi Dinar (IQD) at reputable exchange bureaus.
- Ride-hailing apps like Careem work well in major cities like Baghdad and Erbil, offering a reliable, metered alternative to haggling with street taxis.
- Keep your passport and visa papers accessible at all times, as security checkpoints between provinces and cities are frequent, thorough, and routine.
Fun fact about Iraq
Ancient Mesopotamia (modern Iraq) is credited with inventing the wheel, the 60-minute hour, the 360-degree circle, and one of the world's earliest writing systems, cuneiform!