Southern Iraq Explorer
A 5-day journey through Iraq's ancient heartland
Duration
5 Days
Distance
Baghdad → Samarra → Najaf
From
$1,100 per person
Day 1 – Baghdad
Arrival and city tour of Baghdad
Arrival in Baghdad
All sites are walking tour from 8:30 leave the hotel
Freedom Monument (نصب الحرية)
Designed by Iraqi artist Jawad Saleem and architect Rifat Chadirji, this iconic monument was completed in 1961. Located in Tahrir Square, it symbolizes Iraq's 1958 revolution and the struggle for freedom, featuring 14 bronze reliefs that blend Mesopotamian and modern art styles. The guide will explain the symbols in details.
Bird Market & Busy Bazaar
After taking photos a bus ride in the busiest part of Baghdad to Abbasid palace. On the way we'll see the busy bazaar and the famous bird market.
Abbasid Palace
Built in the 12th century during the Abbasid Caliphate, this historic palace is one of the few surviving examples of Islamic architecture from that era in Baghdad. It's located near the Tigris River and showcases brickwork, arches, and courtyards typical of Abbasid design.
Sarai Street Walking Tour
Walking tour in Sarai street and also explain about each historical building and visit some of them
Al-Mutanabbi Street
Named after the poet Al-Mutanabbi, this historic street is Baghdad's cultural hub, famous for its bookstores, cafes, and intellectual life. It dates back to the early 20th century and remains a symbol of Iraq's literary heritage.
Shabandar Café
Established in 1917 on Al-Mutanabbi Street, Shabandar Café is a historic gathering place for writers, poets, and intellectuals. It symbolizes Baghdad's cultural and literary life and has survived decades of political and social change.
Al-Mustansiriya School
Founded in 1227 CE by Caliph Al-Mustansir, this was one of the oldest universities in the world, offering studies in medicine, math, literature, and Islamic law. It's a key example of Abbasid-era architecture and scholarship.
Safarin Bazaar
After that we visit Safarin Bazaar
Darbouna Kitchen
Cultural experience at Darbouna Kitchen.
Green Zone Visit
Car tour of two sites in the Green Zone. Visit Green Zone, take photos from outside of Victory Arch: Victory Arch (Swords of Qādisiyyah) – Baghdad Unveiled in 1989 by Saddam Hussein, this monument features two giant hands holding crossed swords, commemorating the Iran-Iraq War. Located in Victory Square, it symbolizes military pride and remains a powerful symbol of Iraq's modern history.
Unknown Soldier Monument
Unknown soldiers monument (closed): Monument to the Unknown Soldier – Baghdad Inaugurated in 1982, this monument honors Iraqi soldiers who died in war, especially during the Iran-Iraq War. Designed by Khaled al-Rahal, it features a modernist helmet and shield symbolizing sacrifice and national pride.
Martyrs' Monument
Take photos from outside (closed): Monument to the Unknown Soldier – Baghdad Inaugurated in 1982, this monument honors Iraqi soldiers who died in war, especially during the Iran-Iraq War. Designed by Khaled al-Rahal, it features a modernist helmet and shield symbolizing sacrifice and national pride.
Optional Baghdad MonumentsOptional
Also possible to visit some other monument in Baghdad like Sharazad and Sharayar, Sindbad flying carpet, Kahramana statue, and The magic lamp of Aladin.
Accommodation: Hotel in Baghdad
Day 2 – Baghdad to Babylon & Karbala
Travel to Babylon and Karbala, visit historical sites
Travel to Babylon
Travel from Baghdad to Babylon 1:30 hours (approximately three and a half walking tour in Babylon)
Ancient Babylon and Ishtar Gate
Explore the old city of Babylon and the Ishtar Gate and two palaces of Nebuchadnezzar
Saddam Palace
Visit the ancient city and Saddam Palace exclusive access inside the palace full tour (photo stop only).
Traditional Yemeni Restaurant
Travel to Karbala 1 hour drive, enjoy a meal in a Yemeni traditional restaurant, has Arabic settings. Chicken with colored rice meat with some salad.
Karbala Shrines
Drive to Karbala 1 hour drive visit Imam Hussein and Imam Abbas shrines. 1 hour to 1:30 hour walking tour to visit the two shrines. Go to a restaurant for dinner. And checkin the hotel, stay overnight in Karbala.
Travel Info: Baghdad to Babylon: 1:30 hours, Babylon to Karbala: 1 hour
Accommodation: Overnight in Karbala
Day 3 – Karbala to Najaf
Journey to Najaf and religious sites
Travel to Najaf
Travel from Karbala to Najaf Departure early in the morning at 10am 1:20 hour drive
Wadi Al-Salam Cemetery
Visit the biggest cemetery in the world: Located in Najaf, Wadi Al-Salam ("Valley of Peace") is the largest cemetery in the world, with an estimated 10 million graves. In use for over 1,400 years, it holds deep religious significance for Shia Muslims, who seek burial near the shrine of Imam Ali.
Imam Ali Shrine
Visit the shrine of Imam Ali: This sacred site is the burial place of Imam Ali, cousin of Prophet Muhammad and the first Shia Imam. Built in the 8th century, it is one of the holiest and most expensive mosques in the world, featuring a gold-covered dome, silver doors, and stunning mirror work. It attracts millions of Shia pilgrims every year. Have a walking tour in the shrine. 30 m walking tour inside the shrine and its mosque.
Kufa Mosque
Visit the mosque of Kufa walking tour inside the mosque and its 4 shrines. And explain each one in details: Built in the 7th century, the Kufa Mosque is one of Islam's oldest and most revered sites, especially in Shia tradition. It is where Imam Ali was fatally wounded in 661 CE. The mosque also houses four important shrines: Muslim ibn Aqil (cousin of Imam Hussain), Hani ibn Urwa (a supporter of Muslim ibn Aqil), Mukhtar al-Thaqafi (led a revolt to avenge Karbala), and Maytham al-Tammar (a loyal companion of Imam Ali).
Return to Baghdad
Return to Baghdad, stay and overnight in Baghdad. 3 hours drive. Go for dinner in One Thousand and One Nights park on Tigris.
Travel Info: Karbala to Najaf: 1:20 hours, Najaf to Baghdad: 3 hours
Accommodation: Overnight in Baghdad
Day 4 – Samarra
Visit to the historical city of Samarra
Travel to Samarra
Visit Samarra 2 hours drive
Grand Mosque of Samarra
Visit the Grand mosque of Samarra (closed) Take photos next to the Malawiya minaret special access for our team to get inside.
Al-Khalifa Palace
Pool palace Al-Khalifa Palace – Samarra Also known as the Caliphal Palace, this Abbasid-era structure was built in the 9th century under Caliph Al-Mu'tasim. Located in Samarra, it served as a main royal residence and administrative center, reflecting the architectural grandeur of the Abbasid Caliphate.
In-car Refreshments
Have snacks inside the car
Abu Dulaf Mosque
Next visit Abo Dulaf minaret and climb it. Abu Dulaf Mosque – Samarra Built in the 9th century by Caliph Al-Mutawakkil, the Abu Dulaf Mosque is a major Abbasid architectural site in Samarra. It features a vast rectangular layout and a distinctive spiral minaret, similar to the famous Malwiya Tower, and served both religious and military functions.
Return to Baghdad
Afterwards go back to Baghdad. 2:30 drive. Rest in the hotel. Go back to the hotel and rest. Go to have dinner explore Baghdad and have different types of food.
Travel Info: Baghdad to Samarra: 2 hours, Samarra to Baghdad: 2:30 hours
Accommodation: Overnight in Baghdad
Day 5 – Baghdad
Final day in Baghdad and departure
Iraq Museum
Visit Iraq Museum have a exclusive tour in the museum, Biggest museum in Iraq.
Lunch
Have lunch
Taq Kasra
Go to Taq Kasra, also known as the Arch of Ctesiphon, is a massive 3rd-century structure with the world's largest single-span brick arch. It was once part of a grand palace complex, symbolizing the power and architectural mastery of the Sasanian Empire. Despite centuries of wear, its iconic arch remains a testament to ancient engineering.
Tour Conclusion
Come back to the city and end of the tour around the afternoon 3pm
Ready to Explore Iraq?
Embark on this unforgettable journey through Iraq's rich history and culture. Spaces are limited to ensure the best experience.
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