If you’re flying through Doha on your way to another destination, consider turning one vacation into two by spending a day in this bustling city full of culture, art, traditions, and Arabian hospitality. You can get a good taste of what the city has to offer in 24 hours, and if you have longer, so much the better.
Morning
Start with a walk along part of the 4.3-mile-long Corniche hemming the turquoise waters of the nearly circular Doha Bay. Begin at the National Museum of Qatar. Designed by famed architect Jean Nouvel, the museum resembles a desert rose – a gypsum formation found in the nearby desert. Walk toward the fabulous Doha skyline, past the traditional wooden dhows in the old harbor, making for a perfect contrast of old and new Doha. Pause to earmark the I.M. Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Art for after lunch, and turn left into Souq Waqif.
Souq Waqif is a warren of traditional shops selling everything from bales of rich cloth to sparkling gold, from traditional incense and spices to fluffy stuffed camels to take home as souvenirs. Cafes, restaurants, and traditional juice stalls offer refreshments, featuring outdoor seating where you can watch the hustle and bustle of the bazaar. You might also catch a display of skill and beauty in the Falcon Souq, located in the heart of Souq Waqif. There is even a Falcon Hospital, specializing in treating these birds, which are revered in Arabian culture.
Pop across to the trendy Mshereib quarter, the art and design district of Doha, which houses many galleries and museums. The fascinating contrast of architecture highlights the seamless union of old and new Doha to perfection. Stop for lunch in one of the many small restaurants.
Afternoon and Evening
Save the afternoon for another Doha gem, the Museum of Islamic Art. Not only is the building itself beautiful, but the interior will take your breath away. The stunning staircase leads to exhibits of centuries’ worth of Islamic art featuring examples from around the world. From simple pottery to indulgent jewelry from Mughal India, ancient manuscripts to intricate paintings, this world-class showcase will leave you inspired by the artistic treasures.
Spend the sunset hour in Katara Village, a cultural village on the beach with views across to The Pearl-Qatar. It’s also home to art galleries and exhibitions, street art and traditional architecture, such as the Katara Masjid, a mosque decorated in blue tiles, and the three iconic mud-brick pigeon towers. After exploring, stop for dinner at one of the restaurants serving fresh seafood and local cuisine before heading back to your hotel. You will still have time for relaxation after a day filled with cultural experiences.
If You Have More Time
If you can stay for more than 24 hours, you have a chance to not only experience Doha but also explore Qatar’s unique desert landscape. Embark on a desert safari in a 4WD vehicle, driving across seemingly endless sand dunes to the stunning Inland Sea. This area is particularly magical in winter when flamingos migrate here.
Choose between hiring a private driver or joining a group. You might consider enjoying a picnic lunch on the edge of the Inland Sea with views across to the islands, making for a picturesque experience.
During your time in the desert, enjoy tranquil landscapes while engaging in off-roading adventures—navigating across, down, and up the grand sand dunes—or try your hand at sandboarding.
Alternatively, consider a cultural excursion. With all the fabulous museums across Doha, you can learn about Qatar’s past, present, and future at the National Museum of Qatar, pop into the Fire Station and Mathaf for great contemporary art, then round off the day with a stroll around The Pearl. The Pearl is a manmade island with colorful architecture, lovely marina walks, and cafes at every corner.
Make It Happen
Qatar Airways is the national carrier of the State of Qatar, flying daily from Seattle and 11 other US cities, plus more than 140 other destinations worldwide. With a user-friendly online interface, planning your trip is straightforward.
Stopover packages range from one to four nights in four- or five-star hotels. Airline partner Discover Qatar offers city tours, opportunities to learn about Arabian coffee culture, or even ballooning to see the country from a new perspective. Various tours suit individual interests and differing lengths of stay, ensuring each visitor’s needs are met.
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This narrative was collaboratively crafted between Qatar Airways and the contributing team. Both parties provided extensive research and curated content to deliver this guide.
