How to get to Sulaymaniyah

Situated in a picturesque mountainous area, Sulaymaniyah is considered the cultural capital of the region, attracting travellers with its creative atmosphere and warm hospitality. This dynamic city in the country of Iraq offers tourists a unique blend of Eastern traditions and modernity, and planning a trip to Sulaymaniyah is effortless thanks to a well-developed transport network.

You can reach the city in various ways: by taking a direct flight, driving along scenic serpentine roads, or choosing an intercity bus from neighbouring provinces. Regardless of the chosen route, the journey promises to be colourful and memorable.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the city is to take a flight to Sulaymaniyah International Airport (ISU). This modern aviation hub receives flights from various airlines and is located quite close to the centre, making arrival as convenient as possible for tourists.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighbouring cities with a subsequent transfer. The nearest alternatives are the airports in the cities of Kirkuk (about 96 km) and Erbil (about 147 km), from where it is easy to reach your destination by ground transport.

Currently, there is no direct railway connection to the city of Sulaymaniyah, as there is no operating station within the city or its vicinity. The railway is not the primary mode of transport in this mountainous region.

Travellers preferring ground transport are advised to focus on road routes from nearby major cities, such as Kirkuk or Erbil. This is the most reliable option to reach the destination given the current infrastructure.

Bus travel is a popular and budget-friendly way to reach the city of Sulaymaniyah, especially from neighbouring provinces. Typically, intercity buses and shared taxis depart from the main bus terminals of major cities in the country of Iraq, offering passengers the chance to enjoy the views along the way.

Although exact schedules may vary, services are generally regular during the daytime. It is recommended to check departure times and fares directly at local bus stations, as online booking may not be available for all routes.

Travelling by car allows you to plan your own schedule and enjoy the mountain scenery along the way. One of the shortest routes leads from the city of Kirkuk: the distance is about 111 km, which will take approximately 1.8 hours on the road.

Also popular is the route from the city of Erbil, covering a distance of 200 km (about 3 hours drive). If you are coming from the border direction, for example, from the city of Sanandaj, be prepared for a longer journey of 226 km, which will take about 4.2 hours.

To ensure your trip to Sulaymaniyah is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth familiarizing yourself with local customs and rules in advance. Here are a few useful recommendations for preparing for your trip.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. The climate here can be changeable: summers are hot and dry, while winters are cool and rainy. In summer, choose light, modest clothing made from natural fabrics, and in winter, be sure to bring a warm jacket and waterproof shoes.
2. Transport in the City. The most convenient way to get around is by taxi. Public transport can be difficult to navigate without knowledge of the language. It is best to agree on the fare with the taxi driver in advance, before getting into the car.
3. Currency and Payment. The main currency is the Iraqi Dinar, although US dollars are often accepted in large shops and hotels. Bank cards do not work everywhere, so always carry a supply of cash, especially for payments at markets and in small cafes.
4. Connectivity and Internet. Upon arrival, it is recommended to purchase a local SIM card for mobile internet access, as Wi-Fi in public places may be unstable.
5. Language Barrier. The main language is Kurdish (Sorani), and Arabic is also widely used. English is understood in hotels and tourist spots, but learning a couple of greeting phrases in the local language will surely earn you the affection of the residents.
6. Culture and Etiquette. The locals are very hospitable. It is customary to remove your shoes when entering a private home. Also, try to dress modestly when visiting religious sites and avoid photographing people (especially women) without their permission.

Following these simple guidelines will help you adapt faster and enjoy the unique character and hospitality of this amazing city.