Erbil, located in northern Iraq, is a city steeped in history and culture. Founded over 8000 years ago, it is considered one of the world's oldest cities. Known for its ancient tell mounds, it is a testament to its antiquity. The city is also an important religious center, with sites like the Grand Nour Mosque and the Mar Behnam Monastery. Erbil's atmosphere is a unique blend of tradition and modernity, with lively streets, colorful markets, and historical buildings. Visiting Erbil offers a rich exploration of its heritage and immersion in a vibrant culture.
Don't miss
Top 8 attractions
Grand Mosquée de Nour
Historic 13th-century mosque.
Palais de Maradach
Remains of an Assyrian palace.
Marché Chabbi
One of the largest markets in the Middle East.
Parc de l'Unité
Green park with stunning views.
Maison de la Culture
Cultural center with art exhibitions.
Monastère de Mar Behnam
Religious site dating back to the 6th century.
Barrages de Mossoul
Impressive hydroelectric dam.
Mall of Erbil
Largest shopping mall in the city.
Weather-adapted
What to do based on the weather?
Best activities based on today's weather conditions
- Visiter les sites historiques
- Pique-nique dans un parc
- Faire du sport en plein air
- Photographier les monticules tellénaires
- Découvrir les mosquées
- Visiter les musées
- Découvrir les galeries d'art
- Essayer la cuisine locale
- Se promener dans les rues couvertes
- Assister à un spectacle culturel
- Profitez des piscines publiques
- Explorez les monticules tellénaires pendant la soirée
- Découvrez les sites religieux climatisés
- Faites du shopping dans les centres commerciaux
- Visiter les sites naturels
- Se promener dans les parcs
- Découvrir les marchés couverts
- Essayer les plats chauds locaux
- Découvrir la culture locale
- Apprendre l'histoire de la ville
- Essayer les spécialités culinaires
- Se détendre dans un café
Itineraries
How much time do you have?
1 day
The essentials
9h00
Visite du Grand Mosquée de Nour
Porter des vêtements couvrants
11h30
Découverte du Palais de Maradach
Prevoir une casquette et de l'eau
14h00
Pique-nique au Parc de l'Unité
Apporter son pique-nique
16h30
Visite de la Maison de la Culture
Prevoir une demi-journée
19h00
Dîner dans un restaurant local
Essayer les plats traditionnels
Weekend
3 days
Jour 1 matin
Exploration du Marché Chabbi
Porter des sandales confortables
11h00
Visite du Monastère de Mar Behnam
Prevoir une demi-journée
14h00
Découverte des Barrages de Mossoul
Prevoir une journée
17h30
Faire du sport en plein air
Prevoir de l'eau et des vêtements légers
19h30
Dîner dans un café culturel
Essayer les plats chauds
1 week
Full immersion
Jour 1
Visite des sites historiques
Prevoir une semaine
Jour 2
Découverte des musées locaux
Prevoir une journée
Jour 3
Exploration des parcs et jardins
Prevoir une journée
Jour 4
Faire du shopping
Prevoir plusieurs jours
Jour 5
Découverte des sites religieux
Prevoir une semaine
Jour 6
Visite des galeries d'art
Prevoir une journée
Jour 7
Dîner de gala
Essayer les plats traditionnels
Getting around
Transport & Getting Around
Metro / Subway
The fastest underground network to get around the city.
Bus & Tram
Ideal for areas not served by the metro, with city views.
Tourist pass
Combined transport + museum card, often worthwhile from 2 days.
Bike / Scooter
Self-service bike stations available in most major cities.
Airport → City center
Shuttle, express train or taxi depending on local availability.
Recommended app
Download the local transport app or Google Maps for schedules.
Local tip
Transport: Use taxis or rented cars to get around. Budget: Plan on €50-€100 per day. Safety: Avoid poorly lit areas and keep valuables close. Food: Try local dishes like kebab and falafel. Don't forget: Wear covering clothes to visit religious sites.
Before you go
Practical info
Budget & Payment
Bank cards accepted everywhere in major cities
Local currency: Dinar Irakien (IQD)
ATMs available in city centers
Tipping: 5-10% recommended in restaurants
Safety & Tips
Keep a copy of your passport on your phone
Wear shoulder bags in front in tourist areas
Leave valuables in the hotel safe
Share your location with someone you trust
Language & Phrases
Language(s): Arabe
Plan your trip
When to visit Erbil?
Score /10 based on weather, crowds and events
Jan
8°C
5/10
Feb
10°C
6/10
Mar
15°C
★
Apr
20°C
★
May
22°C
★
Jun
28°C
7/10
Jul
30°C
6/10
Aug
32°C
5/10
Sep
25°C
★
Oct
20°C
★
Nov
15°C
★
Dec
10°C
7/10
Real-time weather in Erbil
15-day forecast · AI analysis · Activities adapted to the weather of the day
View full forecast