Citadel of Erbil: A Timeless Fortress
Explore the ancient Citadel of Erbil, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited settlements, offering a captivating journey through time.
The Citadel of Erbil, also known as Hawler Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historical heart of Erbil in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Rising dramatically from the surrounding plain, this ancient tell is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, with evidence of occupation dating back to at least the 5th millennium BC.
A brief summary to Citadel of Erbil
- Erbil, Municipality One, Erbil Governorate, 44001, IQ
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best light for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone paths can be uneven and require some walking.
- Don't miss the panoramic views from the top; they offer a breathtaking perspective of Erbil and its surroundings.
- Take time to explore the small shops and cafes within the citadel for unique local crafts and snacks.
- Check for any cultural events or festivals happening during your visit to experience Kurdish traditions firsthand.
Getting There
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Walking
The Citadel is located in the heart of Erbil and is easily accessible on foot from the city center. From Erbil's main square, walk north towards the high mound. The Citadel is visible from many points in the city. Follow the road leading up to the main gate. The walk is approximately 1 km and takes about 15 minutes. Be prepared for a slight incline as you approach the Citadel entrance.
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Public Transport
Local buses and shared taxis (microbuses) provide service to the Citadel area. Ask for 'Qelat' (Citadel in Kurdish) or show the driver the address. Bus fares within the city are typically around 500 IQD. Taxis from further points in the city should cost between 3,000-5,000 IQD.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Erbil. Simply tell the driver you want to go to 'Qelat Erbil' or the 'Citadel of Erbil'. Most drivers will know the location. Agree on a fare before starting your journey. A short taxi ride from most locations in central Erbil to the Citadel should cost approximately 3,000 to 5,000 IQD.
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Parking
If arriving by car, parking is available near the Citadel's back entrance. Follow signs for parking as you approach the Citadel. There is an open field used for parking with a small booth at the entrance where you pay the fee. The parking fee is approximately 1,000 IQD.
Discover more about Citadel of Erbil
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
قلعة اربيل
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Explore Erbil Citadel: An ancient, UNESCO-listed site with 8,000 years of history, stunning architecture, and panoramic city views.
هەولێرەکەم
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Escape to Erbil City Park: A tranquil oasis in the heart of Kurdistan's vibrant capital, perfect for relaxation and recreation.
Iraq kurdistan region Tour Guide - Karwan Wahed
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Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of the Kurdistan Region with Karwan Wahed, your trusted local tour guide.
Iraqi Kurdistan Tour Guide- Karwan Wahed
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Explore the hidden gems of Iraqi Kurdistan with Karwan Wahed, your trusted tour operator for unforgettable adventures in Erbil and beyond.
Machko caffe
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Experience Kurdish culture and history at Machko Caffe, Erbil's iconic teahouse since 1940, near the ancient Citadel.
Qaysari Bazaar
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Explore Erbil's Qaysari Bazaar: A historic marketplace brimming with Kurdish culture, traditional crafts, and the flavors of the region.
Erbîl qayseri bazar
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Explore Erbil's historic Qaysari Bazaar: a vibrant hub of Kurdish culture, commerce, and timeless traditions in the heart of the city.
Arab Neighborhood Old Buildings
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Discover the architectural beauty and cultural heritage of Erbil's Arab Neighborhood, a glimpse into the city's rich history and traditions.
Shekh Mustafa Naqishbandi
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Experience the heart of Erbil at Shekh Mustafa Naqishbandi Square, a vibrant hub connecting history, culture, and community.
The statue of Ibn al-Mustawfi
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A tribute to the great Kurdish historian Ibn al-Mustawfi, showcasing Erbil's rich cultural and intellectual heritage.
Downtown - Erbil
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Experience modern shopping and local culture at Downtown Erbil, a vibrant hub in the heart of the Kurdistan Region.
Erbil Civilization Museum
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Explore Erbil's ancient past at the Civilization Museum: artifacts from Stone Age to Islamic period near the Citadel.
تمثال الجواهري
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A tribute to the great Iraqi poet Mohammed Mahdi Al-Jawahiri, offering a space for reflection and cultural appreciation in Erbil.
Zaniary Towers - زانیاری تاوەر
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Experience modern living in Erbil at Zaniary Towers, offering stunning views and convenient access to the city's attractions.
General Directorate of Antiquities in Kurdistan
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Explore Kurdistan's ancient past at the General Directorate of Antiquities in Erbil, a treasure trove of history and cultural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Erbil Citadel
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Explore the ancient Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited settlements.
هەولێرەکەم
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Escape to Erbil's serene urban oasis: هەولێرەکەم City Park, a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and cultural experiences in Kurdistan's vibrant capital.
Kurdish Textile Museum
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Discover the vibrant art of Kurdish weaving at the Kurdish Textile Museum, nestled within the ancient Erbil Citadel.
Erbil amphitheater
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Discover the ancient echoes at Erbil Amphitheater, a window into the region's vibrant cultural heritage and historical significance.
The castle Fountains and gardens
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A serene escape in Erbil, blending dancing fountains, lush gardens, and historical significance near the ancient Citadel.
نافورەکانی پارکی شار ـ Erbil Fountain
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A tranquil fountain in Erbil's Minaret Park, blending modern beauty with the city's ancient heritage near the iconic Choly Minaret.
Governorate garden
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Find serenity in the heart of Erbil at the Governorate Garden, a peaceful escape with beautiful flowers and lush greenery.
The Fountains of Shar Park
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Escape to Erbil's heart at The Fountains of Shar Park: a tranquil oasis with dancing fountains, lush gardens, and serene pathways for all to enjoy.
Clock Tower ( Tawerî Katjmêr )
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Discover Erbil's iconic Clock Tower: a timeless landmark blending history and culture in the heart of the city's vibrant atmosphere.
حديقة الوافير
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Escape to Erbil's Al-Wafir Park: A tranquil urban oasis with lush greenery, perfect for relaxation, family outings, and cultural immersion.
Bakhi Shar Park
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Escape to Bakhi Shar Park, a tranquil garden oasis in the heart of Erbil, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's beauty.
Bazar park
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Escape the city buzz at Erbil's Bazar Park: a green haven with vibrant flowers, peaceful paths, and community spirit.
دەرگای موسڵ
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Escape to دەرگای موسڵ Park in Erbil for a refreshing green retreat, perfect for relaxation and leisurely activities in a tranquil setting.
Swary Qishla قشلەی هەولێر سواری
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Explore Swary Qishla in Erbil, a historical landmark reflecting the city's cultural richness and architectural brilliance, a must-see for history enthusiasts.
باغی شار
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Escape to nature in the heart of Erbil at Baghi Shar Park, a tranquil oasis for relaxation and recreation.
Essential places to dine
Koktel Restaurant
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Hawler Restaurant
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Discover authentic Kurdish flavors at Hawler Restaurant in Erbil – where every dish tells a story.
Bene Restaurant and Cafe - بێ نێ چێشتخانە و کافێ
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Discover exquisite flavors at Bene Restaurant and Cafe in Erbil - where local charm meets culinary delight.
Samad Restaurant
1.4 km
Discover authentic Kurdish flavors at Samad Restaurant in Erbil – a culinary haven for food enthusiasts seeking unforgettable dining experiences.
Shkar Fish Restaurant
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Experience exquisite Iraqi seafood at Shkar Fish Restaurant in Erbil - where flavor meets tradition.
BIG LAND Restaurant
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Experience authentic Kurdish cuisine at BIG LAND Restaurant in Erbil – where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.
Iraqi Touch Restaurant
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Experience the rich culinary traditions of Iraq at Iraqi Touch Restaurant in Erbil – where flavor meets hospitality.
جيشتخانةى جندول
2.3 km
Experience authentic Iraqi cuisine at جيشتخانةى جندول in Erbil - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Dawa 2 Restaurant
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Experience authentic Kurdish cuisine at Dawa 2 Restaurant in Erbil, where every dish tells a story rich in flavor and tradition.
BigChefs Erbil
2.7 km
Experience fine dining at BigChefs Erbil, where exquisite flavors meet elegant ambiance in the heart of Kurdistan.
Bamboo Asian Restaurant, Erbil
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Le Boulevard
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Experience authentic Kurdish flavors at Le Boulevard in Erbil—a culinary destination blending tradition with modernity.
ADA GARDEN GULAN PARK
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Experience exquisite dining in Erbil at ADA Garden Gulan Park - where culinary delights meet serene landscapes.
Sewar Gourmet
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Experience the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine at Sewar Gourmet in Erbil, where tradition meets modern dining excellence.
The Bistro Restaurant and Bar
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Experience the perfect blend of traditional Iraqi cuisine and international flavors at The Bistro Restaurant and Bar in Erbil.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Citadel Souvenirs
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متاجر فلكلور أربيل - Qalat Antique Souvenirs
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Erbil_Silver925
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Grand Bazaar
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كرزات پاشا
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Explore Krazat Pasha, Erbil's premier nut store, offering a delightful selection of high-quality nuts and dried fruits in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Abdulla Perfume
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Discover the rich tradition of fragrance at Abdulla Perfume, a treasure trove of exquisite scents in the heart of Erbil.
IZB
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mali hajyan :: ماڵی حاجییان
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Bryar
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Dubai Shop
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Kazm Kurdish Clothes
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Luqman bazaz
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Rolex Erbil Golden time
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SM Collection 1982
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Shang
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
مودرن شوبAsk
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Loft
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Loft in Erbil, where delicious drinks and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable evening.
Andiamo Sport Lounge Bar & Shisha
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Erbil restaurant
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Oxygen Shisha Lounge
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Al Reef Cafe Erbil
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Oak Resto pub
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Discover the lively ambiance of Oak Resto Pub in Erbil, a bar offering a delightful mix of drinks, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
Divan Erbil
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Experience unparalleled luxury and comfort at Divan Erbil, the ideal destination for travelers in the heart of Iraq's vibrant Erbil city.
Sapphire Steak House Restaurant & Cafe erbil
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American Dream Restaurant & Bar
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Experience the vibrant flavors of Erbil at American Dream Restaurant & Bar, where local cuisine meets a lively atmosphere for unforgettable dining.
Breeze restaurant and bar
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Breeze Restaurant and Bar in Erbil, where delectable cuisine meets refreshing drinks in an inviting setting.
Corleone
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Erbil at Corleone, a lively bar offering a blend of local culture and contemporary vibes.
The Two Princes English Pub
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Experience the warmth of British pub culture at The Two Princes English Pub in Erbil, where good food and great company await.
Cross Star BY TANGO
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Discover the lively atmosphere of Cross Star BY TANGO, an authentic Irish pub in Erbil, perfect for drinks, food, and entertainment.
BLOO Restaurant
3.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Erbil at BLOO Restaurant, where culinary delights and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
