Best Things to do in Erbil | Must-see attractions 2025

Citadel of Erbil

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Castle

City Centre

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The Citadel of Erbil, a World Heritage Site since 2014, features historical architecture, a mosque, and museums highlighting Kurdish culture and history.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Syriac Heritage Museum

Mo-Th, Su 09:00-17:30

Museum

Off Ainkawa Street

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Syriac Heritage Museum in Erbil, Iraq, offers insights into Syriac history, culture, and religion through diverse exhibits and artifacts.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Shanadar Park

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Runaki Road

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Shanadar Park in Erbil, Iraq, is a large city park featuring picturesque lawns and a scenic lake crossed by a cablecar, offering spectacular views of the city.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. No tickets required for entrance.

Erbil Civilization Museum

Su-Th 08:00-13:00

Museum

Municipality Street

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Erbil Civilization Museum showcases artifacts from various civilizations in Kurdistan, Iraq, emphasizing the region's rich archaeological heritage.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Said Qadr Mosque

5:00 AM–10:00 PM

Church

Erbil 60 M

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Said Qadr Mosque is a modern mosque located in Erbil, Iraq, known for its architectural elegance and cultural significance to the local community.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations may be accepted for maintenance.

Traditional Kurdish Costume Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Erbil Citadel

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Traditional Kurdish Costume Museum in Erbil showcases Kurdish weaving and culture through unique exhibits in a historical house since 2004.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may vary in price.

Sami Abdulrahman Park

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Gulan Street

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Sami Abdulrahman Park is a public park in Erbil, Iraq, featuring green spaces, recreational areas, and cultural significance in the Kurdistan Region.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free entry.

Minare Park

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

Halabja

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Minare Park in Erbil, Iraq features landscaped paths, fountains, and a historic minaret. A serene spot for recreation and cultural appreciation.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission fee is required.

Sakura park

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

5xv8+X6 Erbil

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Sakura Park, located in Erbil, Iraq, offers lush landscapes, walking paths, and cultural events within a serene environment, perfect for relaxation and leisure.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a ticket.

Kurdistan Parliament

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Public Building

Iraq

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Kurdistan Parliament in Erbil, Iraq, is the legislative body governing the Kurdistan Region, established in 1992. It plays a key role in regional politics.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry for the public; guided tours may have fees.

Franso Hariri Stadium

Open for events

Stadium

Hawler

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Franso Hariri Stadium in Erbil, Iraq, serves as a sports hub for football and athletics, showcasing modern facilities and hosting international events.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free entry for general access. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Erbil Stones and gems museum

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Erbil

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Erbil Stones and Gems Museum in Erbil, Iraq features an extensive collection of natural minerals, gemstones, and cultural artifacts relevant to the region's history.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have a nominal fee.

Qalat

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Castle

Old Erbil

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Qalat in Erbil, Iraq, is a historic citadel dating back to 5000 BC. It offers rich insight into ancient civilizations and boasts impressive architecture.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Vana Mall

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Mall

Flkay Btamay Xway

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Vana Mall in Erbil, Iraq, is a modern shopping complex featuring various international brands, entertainment options, and dining experiences, catering to a diverse audience.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours recommended to explore fully.

Free entry. Some entertainment options and dining may vary in cost.

Sofy Mall

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Mall

Iraq

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Sofy Mall in Erbil is a major shopping center featuring over 140 shops, dining options, entertainment facilities, and a cinema, catering to diverse consumer needs.

Duration: 2–4 hours.

Free. Some entertainment options may have a separate charge.

Mega mall

10:00 AM–12:00 AM

Mall

Iraq

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Mega Mall in Erbil, Iraq offers a diverse shopping experience with over 300 stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities including a cinema and arcade.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free entry. Charges may apply for specific events or attractions.

Kurdistan University-Hawler

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

Iraq

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Kurdistan University-Hawler, located in Erbil, Iraq, was established in 2006, offering diverse programs with a focus on education, culture, and research.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free access to public areas. Certain events may require tickets.

Salahaddin University

8:00 AM–4:00 PM

College

Azadi (Qasimlo Street)

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Salahaddin University, established in 1968, offers diverse academic programs and serves as a key educational institution in Erbil, Iraq.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Access to certain events may require registration.

cihan university

24/7

College

Erbil

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Cihan University in Erbil, Iraq, offers a modern education framework with a focus on diverse programs in various fields, catering to local and international students.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free entry to campus. Fees apply for specific programs and courses.

Mawlana Khalidi Naqshbandi

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Mosque

Erbil

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Mawlana Khalidi Naqshbandi in Erbil, Iraq, is a prominent Sufi shrine dedicated to the renowned Islamic scholar and mystic, showcasing exquisite architecture and spiritual significance.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome for maintenance and events.

Mar Elia Chaldnean Catholic Church

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Church

Ainkawa

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Mar Elia Chaldnean Catholic Church in Erbil, Iraq, serves as a center for the Chaldean Catholic community, featuring unique Iraqi architecture and historical significance.

Duration: About 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Tablo Mall

07:00-01:00

Mall

Erbil

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Tablo Mall in Erbil, Iraq, features diverse retail shops, a food court, and entertainment options, serving as a key commercial hub in the region.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Free. No entry fee but varies for some entertainment and dining options.

Family Fun

Mo-Su 10:00-23:00

Theme Park

Iraq

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Family Fun is an amusement park in Erbil, Iraq, featuring diverse rides, games, and entertainment for all ages, promising a joyful day out for families.

Duration: 4-5 hours.

Adults: $10, Children: $5. Discounts available for groups over 10.

Bayan University

8:00 AM–4:00 PM

University

Iraq

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Bayan University in Erbil, Iraq, offers a diverse range of academic programs and modern facilities amidst a rich cultural landscape.

Duration: 1-2 hours to explore the campus.

Free entry for visitors.

Ahmad Ismail Mosque

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mosque

azadi

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Ahmad Ismail Mosque in Erbil, Iraq, features striking architectural design and serves as a significant cultural center for the local Muslim community.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for mosque maintenance.

holi galaxy

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Event hall

Ankawa

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Holi Galaxy in Erbil, Iraq, is a family-friendly amusement park featuring rides, games, and vibrant cultural performances, designed for all ages.

Duration: 4 hours.

Paid. Adult tickets: $10, Child tickets: $5. Discounts for families available.

Kurdistan

9:00 AM-6:00 PM

Landmark

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Erbil Citadel is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. It features tall walls and a rich history that reflects the culture of the region.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

peshmarga Park

8:00 AM-8:00 PM

Landmark

Erbil

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Peshmarga Park is a national park in Erbil, Kurdistan Region. It honors the sacrifices of the Peshmarga fighters and features beautiful landscapes, walking paths, and areas for family picnics.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Erbil-Kurdistan

8:00 AM-6:00 PM

Sights

Qallat street

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Erbil Citadel is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. It offers stunning views of the city and showcases rich history with its ancient walls and structures.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Mount Korek

9:00 AM-6:00 PM

Landmark

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Mount Korek is a tall mountain peak in Erbil. It offers stunning views of the surrounding area and features a cable car to reach the top easily.

approx. 2-3 hours

$10

Family Mall

10am-11:59pm

Mall

100 M. Street

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Family Mall is a large shopping center in Erbil. It offers a variety of shops, entertainment options, and dining places, making it a popular spot for families and visitors.

Duration: approx. 2-3 hours

Free