Things to Do in Kirkuk

Stone military barracks built in the 19th century beside the Khasa River. Features arched windows and a central courtyard. A quiet spot for a stroll.

🕐 Open 24 hours

💡 Go at sunset when locals gather on the grass. The riverbank path leads to a small park with pomegranate trees.

Ancient fortress atop a 130-foot mound in the city centre. Contains Ottoman-era houses, a mosque, and a church. Walk the perimeter for views of the city.

🕐 Daily 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

💡 Visit late afternoon for cooler light and fewer crowds. Ask local guards about the underground tunnels, though most are sealed off.

Historic cemetery containing graves of Kurdish, Turkmen, and Arab figures. Features old carved headstones and a small shrine. A reflective, low-key spot.

🕐 Daily dawn to dusk

💡 Respectful dress only. The shrine keeper may offer tea. Best combined with a walk up the adjacent hill for city panoramas.

Small museum with artefacts from nearby archaeological sites, including Assyrian reliefs, Babylonian cuneiform tablets, and Islamic ceramics. Requires a small fee.

🕐 Saturday-Thursday 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

💡 The fee is roughly 2,000 IQD (approx £1). Best to go in the morning; the guard may unlock extra rooms if you show interest. No photos inside allowed.

A green public park with walking paths, benches, and palm trees. Popular with families. Cleaner than many city spots. No entrance fee.

🕐 Daily 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

💡 Weekend afternoons are busy with picnics. Bring your own snacks; the on-site café is limited. Good for people-watching.