Basra stands on the waterway where the Tigris and Euphrates join to become the Shatt al-Arab, and is Iraq's only opening to the Gulf. Its classic landscape is the date groves along the bank and the inner canals; the wooden shanasheel frontages are why it was once called the Venice of the East. Winters are mild and summers among the hottest in Iraq.
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Suso is a travel-planning platform that turns your Basra trip from Turkey into a buy now, pay later flight package: the ticket is issued by travel agencies, booking sites or airlines, and the payment plan runs on consumer credit from partner finance institutions. One click in the basket completes the purchase and the financing together; you pay over 3 to 24 months. No credit card limit needed.
See flights to Basra →When to visit Basra
November to March is the right window. Basra is one of Iraq's hottest cities in summer, with daytime temperatures approaching 50C that make the corniche and the groves hard work. Winters are mild and clear.
Things to do in Basra
The Shatt al-Arab Corniche
A promenade along the river with tea gardens, moored boats and the lights of the far bank. Where the city gathers in the evening cool, and free to walk.
The Basra Museum
Housed in a former palace, the museum shows Sumerian, Babylonian and Assyrian material together, a single-stop introduction to the archaeology of southern Iraq.
Al-Qurnah
The confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates, about 70 km north of the city. The colour difference between the two rivers and the old tree on the bank are visible on the spot.
The date groves
The palm groves along the Shatt al-Arab are Basra's classic landscape. The harvest falls in autumn, and roadside stalls sell fresh dates.
The canals and shanasheel houses
The inner canals and the houses with wooden oriel windows are the city's old fabric. Some has been restored and some is still waiting for repair.
Sindbad Island
A small island in the Shatt al-Arab, linked by bridge and laid out as a park. The easiest place to see the river from the middle.
Flights from Turkey to Basra
Basra is served by Basra International Airport (BSR), about 15 km west of the centre. The direct flight from Istanbul with Turkish Airlines takes around 3 hours 15 minutes, and the centre is reached by taxi.
Basra FAQ
When should I visit Basra?
Between November and March. Basra is one of Iraq's hottest cities in summer, with daytime temperatures approaching 50C, while winters are mild and clear and make the corniche and the groves comfortable.
Do I need a visa for Iraq?
Iraq operates an eVisa applied for online and the terms can change. Confirm the current requirement for your own passport with the Iraqi consulate before booking.
How can I get a Basra flight package?
You can split the cost of your Basra flight package with Suso over 3 to 24 months, with no credit card limit required.
Buy now, pay later flights to Basra
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