Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, is a vibrant and bustling city filled with a wide variety of attractions, from ancient ruins and archaeological sites to modern shopping malls and lively nightlife. The city is known for its rich cultural history and diverse ethnic makeup, making it a great destination for tourists looking to explore the country’s many different aspects. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to have a great time, here are the top 20 places to see in Erbil, Iraq.
1. Erbil Citadel: The Erbil Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. The citadel is believed to date back to the 6th century BC and is home to numerous archaeological sites, including the remains of a ziggurat temple. The citadel is also surrounded by a large marketplace and is a great place to explore the city’s history and culture.
2. Erbil Grand Mosque: The Erbil Grand Mosque is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and is a great place to visit for those interested in Islamic architecture. The mosque was built in the 12th century and is home to a large prayer hall, a library, and a courtyard.
3. Erbil City Park: Erbil City Park is a large public park located in the heart of the city. The park is home to numerous attractions, including a lake, a children’s play area, and a variety of restaurants and cafes.
4. Erbil International Airport: Erbil International Airport is the city’s main airport and is a great place to visit for those interested in aviation. The airport is home to a variety of airlines and is a great place to watch planes take off and land.
5. Erbil Zoo: Erbil Zoo is one of the city’s most popular attractions and is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and elephants. The zoo also has a large aquarium and is a great place to spend the day with the family.
6. Erbil Museum: The Erbil Museum is a great place to learn about the city’s history and culture. The museum is home to a variety of artifacts and is a great place to explore the city’s past.
7. Erbil Water Park: Erbil Water Park is a great place to cool off in the summer months. The park is home to a variety of water slides, pools, and other attractions and is a great place to have fun with the family.
8. Erbil Citadel Museum: The Erbil Citadel Museum is located inside the citadel and is home to a variety of artifacts, including pottery, coins, and other items from the city’s past. The museum is a great place to learn about the city’s history.
9. Erbil Bazaar: The Erbil Bazaar is one of the city’s oldest markets and is home to a variety of shops and stalls selling everything from spices to jewelry. The bazaar is a great place to explore the city’s culture and pick up some souvenirs.
10. Erbil Castle: Erbil Castle is a large fortress located on the outskirts of the city. The castle is home to a variety of attractions, including a museum and a large courtyard, and is a great place to explore the city’s history.
11. Erbil International Fair: The Erbil International Fair is an annual event that takes place in the city. The fair is home to a variety of attractions, including stalls selling traditional crafts, and is a great place to explore the city’s culture.
12. Erbil Planetarium: The Erbil Planetarium is a great place to explore the night sky. The planetarium is home to a variety of interactive exhibits and is a great place to learn about the stars and planets.
13. Erbil Citadel Gardens: The Erbil Citadel Gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy the city’s natural beauty. The gardens are home to a variety of plants and flowers and are a great place to spend the day with the family.
14. Erbil International Stadium: The Erbil International Stadium is a large sports complex located in the city. The stadium is home to a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, and rugby, and is a great place to watch a game.
15. Erbil Zoo Aquarium: The Erbil Zoo Aquarium is a great place to explore the city’s aquatic life. The aquarium is home to a variety of fish and other sea creatures and is a great place to spend the day with the family.
16. Erbil Nightlife: Erbil is home to a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. The city is also home to a variety of live music venues, making it a great place to party the night away.
17. Erbil Citadel Hill: The Erbil Citadel Hill is a great place to explore the city’s history. The hill is home to a variety of archaeological sites, including the remains of a ziggurat temple, and is a great place to learn about the city’s past.
18. Erbil International Fairground: The Erbil International Fairground is a great place to explore the city’s culture. The fairground is home to a variety of stalls selling traditional crafts and is a great place to pick up some souvenirs.
19. Erbil Grand Bazaar: The Erbil Grand Bazaar is one of the city’s largest markets and is home to a variety of shops and stalls selling everything from spices to jewelry. The bazaar is a great place to explore the city’s culture and pick up some souvenirs.
20. Erbil International Airport: Erbil International Airport is the city’s main airport and is a great place to visit for those interested in aviation. The airport is home to a variety of airlines and is a great place to watch planes take off and land.