7 Things to see in Erbil | Kurdistan

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Erbil is the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan and with only one day to go to check out the things to see in Erbil, we were on a tight schedule. Now mention the word Iraq and people think you’ve taken leave of your senses – do your research to find out about the difference between Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan who are hoping for independence and have an autonomous parliament.

Erbil dates back to 6,000 years B.C. and has been inhabited, over the millennia, by the Persians, Greeks, Romans, Mongols and Ottoman Turks. Erbil is a very safe city to visit and expect to be greeted by warm and hospitable people.

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Incredible Things To See in Erbil

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Be amazed at the Jalil Khayat mosque

This Sunni Islamic mosque is the largest in Erbil. Jalil Khayat mosque features external and internal decorations. The internal walls and ceiling look like they could be mosaic but on closer inspection, they are decorated with colourful Zakhrafa (Islamic special painting), scripts of Holy Quran verses, and huge ceiling lamps. The mosque is a fusion of styles, reminiscent of the Muhammad Ali Mosque in Cairo, and the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.

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Explore the historical Citadel of Erbil

Settled more than 8,000 years ago, Erbil Citadel is thought to be one of the longest continuously inhabited sites in the world developed over a tell (archaeological mound). The inhabitants were moved out in an attempt to rebuild the last remains of the fortified citadel which is now a UNESCO-designated world heritage site. There is a local guide there who will show you around the hammam and explain some of the histories. There’s a rug museum and antique shop but generally, the place is still under renovation as of November 2018.

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Retail therapy in Qaysari Bazaar

Wander around the Qaysari Bazaar soaking up the atmosphere, marvelling at the Kurdish Delight sweets or select from the most intricate and beautiful hand-made rugs at fantastic prices. As with any of the bazaars, barter you way down to a reasonable figure. Even if you aren’t buying, the buzz of the bazaar is a cool thing to see in Erbil. The bazaar is one of the oldest covered markets in the world and dates back to the Ottoman period.

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Drink chai with the locals

You will see them dotted on most streets, enter the chai houses for a real Kurdish experience – it is only local men inside who play backgammon, smoke a lot and chat the day away, although it’s ok to go in as a woman too, you just don’t see local women in there. The tea is lava hot and they pour so quickly in such a way that you are sure a good scolding is heading your way. We met a local policeman with big guns who seems quite the celebrity in the city.

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Kurdish cuisine is a party in your mouth

The Kurdish food is so flavoursome with an abundance of herbs. One seating can leave you stuffed between the kebabs, koftas, falafels, biryani, beans, rice, flatbreads, beet & meat soups, salads… need I go on? Being vegetarian could be tricky in Erbil, kebabs are a big thing in Kurdish culture.

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Wander around Minare Park

It was winter when we visited but you can see the park would be buzzing in the summer with rides, cable cars, and outdoor fitness area. There’s a walkway to lined with statue heads of previous presidents and prolific figures throughout Kurdish history. Looks like renovations are in mid-flow as many had a lump of plaster stuck to the end of their nose, hopefully awaiting shaping for their nose job. Muzzafariya Minaret dates back to the 13th century and was built during the reign of Muzzaffar al-Din Kokbari hence the name!

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See Ankawa, Erbil’s Christian Quarter

Just outside Erbil’s city limits, you’ll find Ankawa, the Christian Quarter, with some gorgeous churches to check out. We were allowed to pop into St Joseph’s Church which was set up for a wedding. Ankawa is an ex-pat area so has more nightlife and a row of off licences along the main street selling a full range of alcohol.

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PLAN AHEAD FOR YOUR ERBIL TRIP

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Visa requirements for Kurdistan

50 countries are able to get a free 30-day visa on arrival or apply online. The Kurdish visa, however, does not allow foreigners to travel to other parts of Iraq, beyond the KRG’s administrated areas. More information is found here on the Kurdistan visa requirements.

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Where to stay in Erbil

Fareeq Hotel is a 3-star budget hotel located 5 km from downtown Erbil and Erbil Castle.

Erbil View Hotel is a 4-star venue located centrally and offers a restaurant, fitness centre, communal sauna and airport shuttle.

Ankawa Royal Hotel & Spa is a great place if you fancy splashing out on high end 5 stars. Located in the Christian Quarter, a short walk from Syriac Heritage Museum, this hotel has an indoor pool and spa.

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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. It comes at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.