Basra
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The UK Foreign Office currently advises against travel to all or parts of Iraq. This guide is for a safer time. Check the latest travel advice.
At a glance
- Country
- Iraq
- Region
- Basra Governorate
- Population
- 1.4 million
- Best time to go
- November to March
- Main airport
- Basra International (BSR)
- Coordinates
- 30.51°N, 47.78°E
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Overview
Basra is Iraq's main port, set on the Shatt al-Arab where the Tigris and Euphrates flow together towards the Gulf. Once known as the Venice of the East for its canals, it is famous for date palms and the old latticed balconies of its merchant houses.
This guide is written for a future, safer time and is not an encouragement to travel now. When visiting is advisable, the waterfront and the marshes to the north are the highlights.
Things to see
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Photo: Aziz1005, Public domain Shatt al-Arab Corniche
The riverside promenade where families gather in the evenings to watch boats on the broad waterway.
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Photo: PersianDutchNetwork, CC BY-SA 4.0 Basrah Museum
A collection of Mesopotamian antiquities housed in a former palace by the river.
Tickets and tours -
Photo: Clemens Schmillen, CC BY-SA 4.0 Old shanasheel houses
Ottoman-era merchants' houses with carved wooden balconies in the old quarter of Al-Ashar.
Things to do
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Photo: Christiaan Briggs, CC BY-SA 3.0 Boat on the Shatt al-Arab
Take a short trip on the river for views of the city and the palm groves on the far bank.
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Photo: Unknown author Unknown author, CC0 Visit the Mesopotamian Marshes
A UNESCO-listed wetland of reed beds and water buffalo, where Marsh Arab communities live in reed houses.
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Photo: Taha9009, CC BY-SA 4.0 Taste Basra dates
The region's palm groves produce many varieties; try them fresh in the markets in autumn.
Where to stay
Corniche
Hotels near the river, convenient for evening walks along the water.
Hotels in CornicheAl-Ashar
The old commercial heart, close to markets and historic houses.
Hotels in Al-Ashar
Getting around
In any future visit, a hotel car or a trusted local driver is the sensible choice. Always follow current official advice.
The airport is north-west of the city, typically 30 to 40 minutes by road.
When to go
November to March is the only comfortable time to visit. Summers are extremely hot and humid.
Plan your trip to Basra
Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.