Kabul City Guide: What to See in Afghanistan's Capital

By Al Hamid Tour and Travel · Updated 2026-07-23 · Kabul, Afghanistan

Kabul is where most journeys through Afghanistan begin — a high-altitude capital ringed by mountains, layered with centuries of history, and buzzing with bazaars, gardens, and street life. It rewards a day or two of exploring before you head out to the provinces. Here are the highlights we show our guests and how to make the most of the city.

Top things to see

• Babur's Gardens. The beautifully restored terraced gardens and tomb of the Mughal emperor Babur — a peaceful green retreat with views over the city.
• The National Museum of Afghanistan. A remarkable collection tracing thousands of years of the country's civilizations, from Bactria to the Silk Road.
• The Darul Aman Palace. The grand, restored early-20th-century palace on the city's edge — striking and photogenic.
• The old city and Ka Faroshi bird market. Narrow historic lanes and the atmospheric bird market tucked behind the Pul-e Khishti mosque.
• The bazaars and Chicken Street. Famous for carpets, lapis lazuli, antiques, and handicrafts — a classic Kabul browse.

Where to eat

Kabul is the best place to sample Afghan food across regions — from kebab houses and mantu to a proper Kabuli palaw. We take guests to trusted, well-run restaurants that match your taste and any dietary needs, and can arrange a quieter sit-down or a lively local spot depending on what you prefer. Round it off with green tea and seasonal fruit.

Getting around Kabul

The city is spread out and traffic can be busy, so the simplest way for visitors is a private vehicle that stays with you and a guide who knows the routes, the timings, and the etiquette at each site. That way you spend your time seeing the city rather than waiting on the street or negotiating fares.

Practical tips

• Kabul sits at about 1,800 m — it's cooler than you might expect, so bring a layer.
• Dress modestly; your guide will advise on etiquette at mosques and shrines.
• Always ask before photographing people or official buildings.
• Carry some cash in afghanis for the bazaar, tea, and small purchases.

Kabul is the natural starting point for a wider Afghanistan trip. Tell us your dates on WhatsApp and we'll build the city and the provinces into one smooth itinerary. See our tour packages, how to get around Afghanistan, or the best time to visit guide.