From Iraq to Turkey: Your Complete Travel Guide for 2025

Step One: Applying for a Turkey e-Visa from Iraq

Before you pack your bags, the first and most crucial step is obtaining your Turkey e-Visa. Thankfully, Turkey has simplified this process for Iraqi passport holders through its electronic visa (e-visa) system. Here’s how to apply:

 How to Apply for a Turkey e-Visa (2025 Process):

1. Visit the e-Visa portal.
2. Fill in your personal and travel information (name, passport number, travel dates).
3. Upload your documents:

• A valid Iraqi passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond arrival date)
• A passport-sized photo

Any supporting documents

·      I have a valid Supporting Document (Valid visa OR valid residence permit from one of the Schengen Countries, USA, UK or Ireland). E-visas are not accepted as supporting documents.

·      I can prove at the port of entry that I have at least 50 USD or equivalent foreign currency for each day of my stay in your country.

·      I am travelling for the purposes of tourism or business.

·      I hold a passport valid for at least 3 months longer than the validity period of the e-Visa to be granted.

·      I confirm that I meet each and every one of the conditions listed above.

1. Pay the visa fee securely online using a credit/debit card.
2. Receive your e-Visa via email (typically within 24 to 48 hours).
3. Print a hard copy to present at Turkish immigration.

You must carry a printed version or a digital copy of your approved e-Visa throughout your trip.

Departing Iraq: Airports to Begin Your Turkish Adventure

Iraq has several international airports that operate frequent direct or connecting flights to major Turkish cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya. Here’s what you should know before heading to the airport.

 Baghdad International Airport (BGW)

• Distance from city: 16 km west of downtown Baghdad.
• Facilities: Duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, money exchange counters, and prayer areas.
• Transport: Taxis, rideshare apps, and private airport shuttles.

 Erbil International Airport (EBL)

• Distance from Erbil center: Around 7 km.
• Facilities: Modern design, clean waiting lounges, café chains, and free Wi-Fi.
• Transport: Pre-booked cars and reliable taxi services.

 Sulaymaniyah International Airport (ISU)

• Distance from city: 12 km from central Sulaymaniyah.
• Facilities: Local eateries, duty-free shopping, and fast immigration processing.
• Transport: Affordable car rentals and taxis.

These airports have consistent departures to Istanbul Airport (IST), Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), Ankara Esenboğa (ESB), and Antalya Airport (AYT).

Arriving in Turkey: First Steps After Landing

Once you touch down in Turkey, your journey truly begins. Here’s how to navigate your arrival and transportation:

 Airport Transfer Options

• Istanbul Airport (IST): Metro (M11), Havaist airport buses, taxis, and private shuttles.
• Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW): Intercity buses, taxis, and metro access via Pendik.
• Ankara Airport (ESB): Buses and metro links to city center.
• Antalya Airport (AYT): City buses, taxis, and resort transfers.

Make sure to buy a rechargeable IstanbulKart or AntalyaKart for easier public transport.

Comfort First: Best Areas to Stay Near Turkish Airports

Finding a place to stay is easy in Turkey. Whether you prefer budget hostels or upscale hotels, these neighborhoods offer convenient accommodation options.

 Near Istanbul Airport (IST)

• Arnavutköy: Closest district to the airport with basic and mid-range hotels.
• Esenyurt: Budget-friendly, accessible by metrobus and ideal for long stays.

 Near Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)

• Pendik: Business-friendly hotels and quick metro links to Kadıköy.
• Kartal: Quiet area with coastline views and smooth metro connectivity.

 Other Suggestions

• Ankara: Choose Kızılay or Ulus districts for budget and cultural immersion.
• Antalya: Lara Beach or Kaleiçi (Old Town) are tourist favorites with beach access and local charm.

Iraqi Cuisine in Turkey: Finding a Taste of Home

Missing home-cooked meals? You won’t have to. Turkey is known for its rich food scene, and many cities have thriving Arabic and Iraqi culinary options.

Where to Eat Like a Local Iraqi

1. Masgouf – Smoked river fish, grilled over an open fire.
2. Kebab & Tashreeb – Grilled meat served with broth-soaked bread.
3. Dolma & Kubba – Stuffed vine leaves and minced meat dumplings.
4. Samoon Bread – Found in Arabic bakeries in Istanbul and Gaziantep.
5. Sweet Delights – Baklava, Kunafa, and Zalabia available in Arabic dessert shops.

Cities with Iraqi Food Options

• Istanbul: Fatih, Aksaray, and Esenyurt neighborhoods.
• Ankara: Ulus and Kızılay have Arab and Kurdish restaurants.
• Gaziantep: A city known for its fusion of Turkish and Middle Eastern flavors.

Must-See Destinations in Turkey for Iraqi Travelers

Turkey is an open-air museum. Whether you're passionate about architecture, ancient civilizations, or nature, the country offers endless options for exploration.

Istanbul – The Cultural Crossroads

• Top Attractions:
• Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Basilica Cistern
• Grand Bazaar & Egyptian Spice Market
• Bosphorus Cruise: Enjoy dinner while cruising between Europe and Asia

Cappadocia – Magic in the Air

• Top Experiences:
• Hot Air Balloon ride at sunrise
• Visit Göreme Open-Air Museum
• Explore Derinkuyu Underground City

Antalya – Where Mountains Meet the Sea

• Top Highlights:
• Düden Waterfalls and Konyaaltı Beach
• Kaleiçi (Old Town) for cafes and shopping
• Aspendos Theater: A perfectly preserved Roman amphitheater

Gaziantep – Culinary Capital

• Don’t Miss:
• Pistachio Baklava and Ali Nazik Kebab
• Visit the Zeugma Mosaic Museum
• Shop at Copper Handicraft Bazaar

Bursa – A Green Historical Escape

• Best for Nature and History:
• Uludağ Mountain for winter sports or summer picnics
• Historical Silk Market and Grand Mosque (Ulu Camii)

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Adventure Ideas for Iraqi Explorers

For travelers who want more than sightseeing, Turkey offers adrenaline-filled options and natural wonders.

Top Adventure Activities

1. Paragliding in Ölüdeniz (Fethiye): Glide over turquoise waters and green mountains.
2. Rafting in Rize (Çoruh River): Experience powerful rapids in the lush Black Sea region.
3. Jeep Safari in Pamukkale: Explore thermal terraces and off-road mountain trails.
4. ATV Tours in Cappadocia: Ride through valleys and rock formations.
5. Scuba Diving in Kaş: Dive among ancient ruins and vibrant marine life.

Practical Travel Tips for a Hassle-Free Trip

Currency Exchange

• Use official exchange offices (Döviz) in airports or shopping malls.
• Carry some cash in Turkish Lira (TRY), especially for taxis or small vendors.

Stay Connected

• Buy a local SIM card (Turkcell, Vodafone, or Türk Telekom).
• Data packages start around 200 TRY for 10 GB.

Respect Cultural Etiquette

• Dress modestly when visiting mosques.
• Remove shoes before entering religious sites.
• Use Turkish greetings and polite expressions like “Merhaba” (Hello) and “Teşekkür ederim” (Thank you).

Final Checklist Before Traveling

•  e-Visa printed or saved on your phone
•  Passport with at least 6 months of validity
•  Round-trip flight booking (may be required at immigration)
•  Hotel reservation or accommodation address
•  Travel insurance (recommended but not mandatory)
•  Turkish Lira or international card for expenses

Why Iraqi Travelers Love Turkey

Turkey remains a favorite destination for Iraqi travelers for several reasons:

• Short Flight Duration: Just 2–3 hours from major Iraqi cities.
• No Language Barrier: Arabic is spoken in many tourist areas.
• Affordable Travel: Budget-friendly food, transportation, and accommodation.
• Visa Simplicity: Easy online application for the Turkey e-Visa.

Ready for Takeoff?

With beautiful landscapes, historical landmarks, welcoming locals, and delicious food, Turkey welcomes Iraqi travelers with open arms. Whether you're planning a romantic honeymoon, a family vacation, or a business trip, this 2025 travel guide equips you with all the essential tools for a successful adventure from Iraq to Turkey.