Are you planning a layover in Doha or visiting Qatar for a few days? If so, you must be wondering what fun and fascinating things there are to do in the capital of Qatar. Well, worry no more, as we have put together a list of exciting things to do in Doha for first-time visitors.
Wander in Souq Waqif
Souq Waqif is an unmissable experience for any visit to Doha - it's Qatar's largest open market and is packed with unique offerings you won't find anywhere else. Not only is the market divided into specialty sections like gold, spices, handcrafts, perfumes, and souvenirs, but it also features the world-famous Falcon Souq.
So if you're looking for a single place to explore on your trip to Doha, make sure to check out Souq Waqif - it won't disappoint!
Here are few tips to make most of your experience in Souq Waqif :
Visit in the evening - we recommend visiting between 5 pm and 8 pm, as many shops close by the afternoon and don't reopen until 4 pm. Souq Waqif comes to life in the evening when the temperatures are cooler, and the market is bustling with activity. Plus, the market is beautifully lit up at night, creating a magical atmosphere
Bargain for prices -Souq Waqif is a great place for souvenirs and handcrafts , so if you decide to grab something , don’t forget to bargain ! Bargaining is a common practice at Souq Waqif, Start by offering at least 10% off the price and decide.
Try the local cuisine - Souq Waqif is home to numerous restaurants and food stalls serving delicious traditional Arabic cuisine. Remember, souq is not a place for fine dining ! Choose outdoor seating area in a restaurant and order any of the following : local specialties like machboos (spiced rice with meat or fish), balaleet (sweet vermicelli noodles), kunafa or ummali (Arabic desert)
Visit Falcon Souq and Falcon hospital
Qatar is one of the few countries in the world where falconry is still an important part of the local culture.
At the Falcon market in Souq Waqif, you can witness the traditional art and practice of training and flying falcons for hunting birds. This ancient art has been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, making it a unique experience to witness firsthand.
During our tours in Doha, we make sure to take our guests to the Falcon Souq and provide an in-depth look into the significance of falconry in Qatar. From the shops that sell falcons and training accessories to the specialised hospital where falcons are trained for hunting competitions, the Souq is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
See the sunset in Mia park
We guarantee that watching the sunset from the park is one of the most beautiful scenes to see in the city. As you can imagine, the Doha skyline looks spectacular when illuminated !
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and head to Museum of Islamic Arts (MIA) Park for an unforgettable experience! Even if you are not planning to visit the Museum, don’t skip the park next to it ! Not only will you be able to take a stroll through the park, but you will also be able to witness an incredible view of the Doha skyline from the viewpoint.
The sunset in MIA Park is unlike any other !
Visit FIFA World Cup Stadium in Doha
If you are a football fan, you shouldn't miss the iconic Lusail Stadium in Doha ! Located about 15 kilometers north of Doha's city center, It is one of the most impressive stadiums in the world ,which hosted the final game of 2022 FIFA World Cup ! Note that you can't enter the building, but checking out the venue from the outside is still worth it !
Stroll along the Corniche
The Doha Corniche is a must-see for anyone who loves to take in the sights and sounds of a new place.
This seven kilometer stretch of promenade overlooks the tranquil and picturesque waterfront, giving you the perfect opportunity to soak up the breathtaking views of the city. Whether you visit during the day or after sunset, you'll be sure to stroll at the contrast between the old wooden dhow boats and the modern skyscrapers.
Here are few tips to make most of your experience at Corniche, Doha :
Wear Comfortable clothes - if you are planning to stroll along the Corniche, you’d better wear comfortable clothes and shoes, during the day it gets sunny, so its always handy to have sunglasses with you.
Bring water - The Corniche is a long stretch, and it can get quite hot during the day. Make sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated in the hot climate of Doha. At Corniche you will find Costa Coffee, where you can grab snacks and drinks.
Take Traditional Dhow boat ride
For those seeking a unique and exciting way to explore the great outdoors, hire a traditional dhow boat at Corniche and take a boat ride across the waters of the Arabian Gulf.
We highly recommend booking a private tour, as you can experience a 20-minute tour of the harbour that is an absolute treat and an incredible value at around 100 Qatari Riyals. You'll find these traditional boats moored along the walls of the Corniche.
Sip Karak Chai
We often tell our travelers in Doha that ‘’Trip to Qatar is not complete, if you haven’t tried Karak’’.
Experience the taste of Qatar with a sip of Karak Chai! This spiced tea is a local obsession, with a flavour profile that features cardamom, cinnamon and saffron. It's an Indian-influenced beverage that is beloved by locals and travelers alike, and can be found in tea stalls open 24 hours a day.
Make sure to experience the culture of Qatar by sipping on a cup of Karak Chai!
Visit luxury neighbourhoods of Doha : Porto Arabia and Qanat Quartier
Pearl Qatar is an oyster-shaped artificial island situated on Doha Bay. From the beautiful marina gates, to the carefully planned residential area with its Mediterranean feel (Porto Arabia and Qanat Quartier) the Pearl area offers a unique experience.
Take a stroll and admire the stunning architecture of the area, or relax on a public bench before your next stop. With amazing cafes and restaurants scattered throughout, Pearl Qatar is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the high life in Doha.
Here are few tips to make most of your experience in Pearl Qatar :
Plan your visit - The Pearl Qatar is a large development with several different areas, so it's a good idea to plan your visit ahead of time. We would suggest the following areas to visit - Porto Arabia (Mediterranean residential area) , Qanat Quartier ( Venice style residential district) , Medina Centrale (Downtown of Pearl Qatar)
Explore dining options : remember If you are into fine dining, Pearl Qatar is a place to go !
Car watching at Medina Centrale (Pearl-Qatar)
For car enthusiasts seeking a unique experience, Downtown of Pearl in Doha offers a stunning array of modern cars to admire. After an evening exploring the area, take a seat in one of the outdoor cafes at Madina Central and enjoy the spectacle of supercars driving by. Whether you are a car enthusiast looking for a new experience or just a curious observer, you won't be disappointed with the sights that Downtown of Pearl has to offer.
For comfortable and fun experience in Doha , Don't miss out on our city tour packages. From the city’s renowned sights to its hidden gems, we'll show you the best of what Doha has to offer
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