Erbil walking route: Mam Kalili Tea House and the old bazaar
Explore Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, through its historic bazaar and cultural landmarks. This route showcases the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, where seven thousand years of history remain alive in traditional shops, tea houses, and local craftsmanship.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Erbil
- End
- Mam Kalili Tea House
- Stops
- 2
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Erbil — Capital of Iraqi Kurdistan and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with over 7,000 years of history and rich Kurdish culture.
- Mam Kalili Tea House — Erbil's oldest café operating since 1963, featuring walls adorned with photos of famous Kurds and serving as a cultural gathering place for locals for generations.
Useful for your trip
- Tip
- Visit the Qayseria Bazaar in Erbil to experience authentic Kurdish culture and meet local artisans. The bazaar is the liveliest and busiest spot in the city.
- Food
- Visit Mam Kalili tea house, operating since 1963, the oldest cafe in Erbil. The owner tradition requires drinking more than one cup of chai. Chai is served strong with no milk and plenty of sugar.
- Tip
- Shop for traditional Kurdish embellished caps and turbans in the bazaar side alleys. These are key parts of Kurdish traditional dress and make good souvenirs.
- Tip
- Look for traditional Kurdish flutes (balaban) sold in bazaar shops. These are authentic handicrafted souvenirs reflecting Kurdish heritage.
- Tip
- Explore the bazaar to find hand-sculpted prayer beads. These range from factory-made to exquisite hand-painted pieces costing a few hundred dollars. They are a national pastime item.
- Timing
- Visit the main square of Erbil in the evening when families and friends gather to drink tea and juice together.
- Tip
- Iraqi Kurdistan is described as pretty safe to visit despite past tensions. Erbil is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with over 7,000 years of history.
Video on this route
I Was AMAZED, traveling SOLO as a woman in ERBIL, IRAQI KURDISTAN