Things to Do in Baghdad

A prominent Ottoman-era clock tower in the centre of Baghdad, restored in recent years. You can see it from the street and photograph it without entering any building nearby.

🕐 Always visible externally

💡 It's next to the main market—combine a visit with an explore of the souk. No need to plan around opening hours as it's visible 24/7.

A striking turquoise dome split in two, built to honour Iraqis killed in the Iran-Iraq war. You can walk around the base and see the flame inside the dome. The park grounds are open to all.

🕐 Daily 9am-9pm

💡 Go late afternoon. The light through the turquoise tiles is best then, and the park is quieter after 4pm.

The historic booksellers' street along the Tigris. Second-hand bookstalls line the pavement, and you can browse for hours. Street art and tea stalls add to the atmosphere.

🕐 Varies, busiest Fri 9am-2pm

💡 Visit on a Friday morning when the street is pedestrianised and book vendors set up stalls by the river. Bring cash—few card machines.

Houses Mesopotamian artefacts, including Assyrian reliefs and Sumerian pieces. The entry fee is very low (around 2,000 IQD, about $1.30).

🕐 Sun-Thu 9am-2pm, closed Fri-Sat

💡 Bring ID—locals get free entry on Fridays. Allow 2 hours; the labelling is sparse so a guidebook helps.

Baghdad's main public park with large green lawns, a small lake, and a zoo. Entry is cheap (1,000 IQD, about $0.65). The zoo is separate but also low cost.

🕐 Daily 9am-10pm

💡 The amusement rides inside the park cost extra, but the walking paths and picnic spots are free once you're in. Go in the morning before the heat builds.