Best Time to Visit Kirkuk

Spring and autumn: the sweet spots

March to April is the best stretch, and November is just as good. Days are mild, and the nights are cool enough for a jacket. In March the hills around Kirkuk turn green, and you'll want to walk without sweating through your shirt.

October also rates Excellent, though it's warmer, with highs around 31°C. Pick it if you'd rather ease out of summer than step into winter. May is Good but already hot, and afternoons get strong.

Summer: hot and dry

June to September is rated Poor, and that's fair. July and August tie as the hottest months, both with highs of 44°C and lows of 28°C. Rain is almost nonexistent, and the sun shines for 13 hours or more a day.

The air is dry, so it feels like standing in front of an oven. Locals shift life to the evenings. If you must come, spend your days indoors and go out after sunset. The old Citadel (the ancient mound at the city's centre) and the nearby bazaar are far more pleasant once the sun drops.

Winter: cool, grey and a bit wet

December to February is cool, with highs from 13°C to 16°C. Nights can drop to 3°C in January, the coldest month. Rain falls on about six or seven days a month, so a few days will be grey and muddy. February and December still rate well, and winter suits city wandering, tea houses and long meals of kebab.

Travelling with kids? Winter and spring are easier. You can stay out all day without worrying about heat.

Crowds and events

Kirkuk isn't a classic tourist spot, so there's no true high season. You won't fight crowds in any month. Travel is busier around the main Islamic holidays, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Their dates move earlier each year, so check them before you book. During Eid, many shops close and families visit each other.

Nowruz, the Kurdish and Persian new year, falls around 21 March. Kurdish communities celebrate with bonfires and picnics, which fits well with the best spring weather. Check current security and travel advice before you go, as it can change quickly.