This is going to be  a very long post, but I promise you, that’s the only guide you will ever need to planning your trip in Qatar.

After living here for six years, I have experienced Qatar in so many ways and would like to share with you some of the most amazing things you can add to your itinerary in Qatar.

Best resources for planning a trip to Qatar:

• Book a flight with Qatar Airways
• Search for excursions with Trip Advisor and Get Your Guide
• Rent your car with Discover Cars

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Favourite travel resources:

• Booking.com for searching best prices on accommodation.
• Discover Cars is a great website as they search both local and international car hire services, so you can choose the best deal for yourself. Make sure though, that the company has a good reputation and reviews.
• Get Your Guide is my place to go for searching and booking tours and excursions, especially when I travel solo.
• World Nomads travel insurance. I like them because they have quite extensive coverage of different activities.
• Jack’s Flight Club is a service that can save you hundreds of dollars on flights, it works especially well in Europe.
• Trivago where you can search and save on hotels.
• Go City is a perfect site for booking bucket list experiences and attractions all in one to avoid paying for multiple tickets. Easy and saves money.
• Trip Advisor– amazing for good quality recommendations.
• Skyscanner is a perfect website for searching flight routes and comparing prices.

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Amazing things to do in Qatar- an ultimate guide

In the heart of the Arabian Gulf lies a gem waiting to be explored – Qatar. A land where tradition meets innovation, where modern skyscrapers pierce the sky alongside ancient forts, and where natural wonders beckon adventurous souls. I have lived in Qatar for six years now, I watched the country grow and become so pretty. I’d like you to have an amazing experience here, so I’ve prepared this comprehensive guide with all the things you could see and do.

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See also:

The best hotels in Qatar for an ultimate luxury experience.

Kayaking in Qatar- all you need to know.

A quick guide to museums in Qatar

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Have coffee with the view of incredible skyline

They say that Dubai is incredible for skyscrapers, but I think Doha’s skyline is much more beautiful as, unlike Dubai, has all the towers located in one place that make it a quite picturesque sight. Marvel at the breathtaking skyline of Doha, a city where futuristic skyscrapers illuminate the night sky, creating a spectacle that is nothing short of mesmerizing.

View from MIA park

Kayak among mangroves

This one might surprise you as Qatar is mainly a desert, but you can have serene kayak adventures through the tranquil waters of the Al Thakira Mangroves. And if you are lucky, you can see lots of flamingoes. The best time to visit the mangroves is at sunrise or sunset – then have a bonfire and locally prepared food.

Book your kayaking excursion

See sea turtles in nature

Did you know that you can witness the wonder of nature as you encounter majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat (a truly unforgettable experience that highlights Qatar’s commitment to wildlife conservation)? Just an hour north of Doha, near Fuwairit Kite Beach hotel, there’s a turtle breeding reserve.

Visit 2D cafe

This really tiny cafe, located in Lusail, is such a fun place to stop by for a refreshment.

Eat traditional Qatari dessert: Umm Ali

You either love it or hate it, I think. Umm Ali is a traditional Qatari dessert made with layers of pastry, nuts, and sweetened milk, a culinary delight not to be missed. And I almost forgot: accompany your umm ali with a cup of traditional drink called karak.

Eat cheap in the Souq Waqif

Delve into the bustling atmosphere of the traditional souqs, where vibrant stalls offer an array of goods and street food delights at affordable prices, allowing you to savor the authentic flavors of Qatar without breaking the bank. If you only had one day in Doha, I believe that visiting the souq should be number one thing on your list.

Visit unique museums

Even if museums is not your thing, you will want to visit the ones in Qatar.  You can experience Qatar’s rich cultural heritage by visiting its unique museums, which showcase everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary art pieces, providing insight into the country’s fascinating history and vibrant arts scene.

Check my guide to museums in Qatar

Best international restaurants

Dine at Qatar’s top international restaurants, where esteemed chefs craft exquisite dishes from diverse cuisines worldwide. You might already know a few names like Morimoto, Nobu or Gaston Acurio. There is something for everyone who loves fine dining.

Outside air conditioning

Experience the luxury of outdoor cooling systems in Qatar, where innovative technology ensures comfortable outdoor environments, even amidst the desert’s scorching temperatures.

I am not kidding. In Qatar you can enjoy walk in a park or a shopping alley with air conditioning that keeps the temperature at 24C.

Eat and walk around in Box Park

Just before entering the Old Port, there’s a fairly new area full of colourful containers that have been transformed into shops, eateries and cafes. It is a nice place for a walk as well.

Day at the desert

Escape the urban hustle and bustle with a desert retreat. Qatar is small and the desert much more accessible than other desserts in the area, so take advantage of having an ultimate dessert experience without much effort to get there.

I highly recommend this tour to the desert (with sandboarding) with over a thousand of 5-star reviews

Visit Al Wakrah

Al Wakrah is a seaside town not far from Doha that is also accessible by metro. It has a nice beach path for a walk and some nice cafes and restaurants. In the evening, you can visit a renovated souq just steps away from the beach.

Inland sea

Explore the mesmerizing beauty of Khor Al Adaid’s inland sea, a UNESCO-listed natural sanctuary where the see enters the desert and  sand dunes, creating an unparalleled landscape. On the other side, you can see Saudi Arabia.

Singing dunes

Experience the enchanting phenomenon of singing dunes as you journey through the desert’s rolling sands, where the shifting grains produce melodic hums that resonate in the air. It is a really cool experience.

Attend Marmi- a traditional falcon festival

Witness the majesty of falcons at the annual Falcon Festival, where these regal birds are honored through thrilling competitions and cultural showcases. It happens at the desert in the south of Qatar and it is one of the most traditional experiences to have in Qatar. It lasts a full month, during which falcon owners compete to show off their falcons’ hunting skills. You won’t imagine the prizes though!

Venice in the Middle East

The Pearl-Qatar’s Qanat Quartier, reminiscent of Venice with its charming canals and lively piazzas, offering a truly enchanting experience. It is not my favourite part of Doha, but it surely is a perfect place for taking lots of cute photos.

Skyline that is even prettier at night

Take a stroll along Corniche all the way to MIA park to have an opportunity seeing Doha skyline at night.

Traditional dhow tour

Hop aboard a traditional dhow, I recommend at sunset or night for the best effect. Sail past iconic landmarks like the Museum of Islamic Art and the Pearl-Qatar, all while enjoying the gentle sea breeze and stunning views. Whether you opt for a romantic sunset cruise or a relaxed dinner voyage, a dhow tour offers an authentic and unforgettable experience of Qatar’s heritage.

Explore modern smart city: Mshreib

Mshreib, also known as a smart city is a modern part of Doha just at the border of Souq Waqif. If I were a tourist in Doha, Mshreib would probably be my first choice as it is close to many attractions. Designed with sustainability and innovation in mind, Msheireb is a vibrant urban district that seamlessly blends modern architecture with traditional Qatari heritage. And…you can have a free tram ride in there.

Walk around pastel Old Port

This historic district, nestled along the waterfront, offers a glimpse into Qatar’s rich maritime history and trading heritage. It quickly become one of the most popular areas on Doha (just opened before FOFA World Cup) as you will have plenty of space to walk at the seaside and explore  cafes and  boutique shops.

Watch camel races

Camel racing (October to April) holds a special place in Qatari culture, blending tradition with modernity to create a thrilling spectacle that captivates both locals and visitors alike. In Qatar, camel racing is not just a sport but a cherished tradition that dates back centuries.

The Al Shahaniya Camel Racetrack, located on the outskirts of Doha, is the premier venue for camel racing in Qatar. One of the most exciting aspects of camel racing in Qatar is the use of robotic jockeys, a modern innovation introduced to replace child jockeys in the early 2000s.

No jockeys yet on this photo

Enjoy free aquarium in the Old Port

The aquarium in the Old Port is my newest discovery. It’s not very big, but it is free and makes it a nice pit stop when wandering around the area.

Visit Qatar National Library

In Education City, Doha, lies an architectural marvel that combines education, culture, and spirituality—the Qatar National Library. It’s one of my favourite places in Doha. Not only the building is really beautiful, but the reading spaces are super cool. You can even have a coffee there while sitting in a swing chair.

Walk around Education City and visit the mosque

Just a few minutes from the library, you can visit the most modern mosque in Qatar. It is also part of a university. When there are no prayers, you can visit the mosque inside, it is really beautiful with a lovely white spiral staircase.

See a cute lonely tree

I like this place because it is so serene. If you read on, I mention a ghost village in the north of the country; that’s exactly where the tree is.

Pick fresh produce and see animals at a desert farm

North Sedra Farm stands as an oasis of agricultural charm just an hour drive from Doha. This picturesque farm offers a unique opportunity to experience the joys of picking fresh vegetables while enjoying the company of friendly farm animals. It is a perfect spot for the whole family to spend a day outside and have a picnic.

Museum in a desert

The Sheikh Faisal Museum in Qatar is a cultural gem nestled in the heart of the desert. Founded by Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, this museum showcases his vast collection of artifacts, spanning centuries and continents. From antique cars and vintage coins to traditional Qatari handicrafts and Islamic art, the museum offers a fascinating journey through history and heritage. You can even find a plane there.

See oryxes in wild

Oryx is the national animal of Qatar. One of the best places to see oryxes in the wild is the Ras Abrouq Peninsula. This pristine desert region, located in the southwestern part of the country, is home to the Arabian oryx. Ras Abrouq Peninsula is a protected area where these creatures roam freely in their natural habitat. You can see them on a  guided desert safari or wildlife tours to explore the area and catch a glimpse of the oryxes grazing over the sand dunes. Additionally, the Al Maha Sanctuary in the southern part of Qatar is another area where oryxes are known to inhabit.

This tour is great for desert safari

Drive around the whole country in one day

You really can drive the whole Qatar in just one day- that small it is. To see all the best things outside of Doha though, two days would work better. But if you are short on time, for sure you will be able to see the highlights.

Visit FIFA World Cup logo statue and the Flag Plaza

Qatar was very proud of hosting the football World Cup and made the whole city a living fan zone. Till now, there is a flag plaza displaying flags of most countries and a massive logo (actually there are two logos, one in the water, which you can see when taking a dhow cruise).

Night desert safari

A desert safari at night is a whole different story. Some tours offer such beautiful experiences like a bonfire with local food and entertainment and sandboarding and many other attractions. You can explore the tours here.

Walk through a flower tunnel and see the massive dugong

Near the Corniche metro station, you will find this cute flower tunnel. It’s perfect for pictures, don’t you think? But don’t leave yet. Walk a little bit further to see a really gigantic sculpture of dugong by Jeff Koons.

White sand beaches and blue warm sea

The weather in Qatar is warm almost whole year round, which makes it perfect for the beach. However, the water is quite shallow and never has waves, so it might not be entirely to your linking.

Rooftop bars

One of a traditional events in Doha

Unique sculptures in the middle of a desert

One such iconic sculpture is “East-West/West-East” by internationally acclaimed artist Richard Serra. Located in the heart of the desert, this monumental installation consists of four towering steel plates that stretch across the desert, creating a powerful visual installation. It’s not the prettiest, I’d say, but seeing it in the middle of nowhere is quite eye-catching.

There is a new desert installation called “Shadows travelling on the Sea of the day” by Olafur Eliasson. It’s created by 20 mirrored circular shelters and rings.

Flowers and green spaces everywhere

Compared to all the countries in the Middle East that mainly are deserts, Qatar is quite green. They spend a lot of money on creating beautiful parks and green spaces everywhere with lots of flowers. So take advantage of this and put parks on your list. My favourite parks are:

• Al Bidda park where you can do sports, rent a bike or use a barbeque station. Metro arrives there as well and you’ll have some of the best views of the city.
• Oxygen Park is located in Education City. It is quite small, but if you travel with children, make sure not to miss it as nearby there’s a really nice interactive playground.
• MIA park is

Explore a ghost village

It is an abandoned village in the north of Qatar. No one is ever there, so it makes it a quite interesting place to visit. I’d say that it is one of the most Instagramable spots in Qatar. In the past, it was a bustling settlement inhabited by pearl divers and fishermen; the village was gradually abandoned as its inhabitants sought opportunities in urban areas.

Visit the most sophisticated milk factory

A few years ago, Qatar was forced to become independent in diary production. This resulted in creating a super modern milk factory. But this is Qatar, so they took advantage of by making it a great activity for the whole family: Baladna Park in Qatar, which  offers visitors a delightful escape into nature, with its lush greenery, serene lakes, and picturesque walking trails. It’s a perfect spot for families to enjoy picnics, outdoor activities, and leisurely strolls. You can even have a guided tour there.

Dune bashing

Experience the adrenaline rush of dune bashing as you navigate the towering sand dunes of the desert in a thrilling off-road adventure.

Visit Katara Cultural Village

Katara has it all. From a beautiful beach (not for bikini sunbathing though) and a long seaside stroll, as the name suggests, there is a lot about culture in Katara. You can enter a maze of old-looking buildings, see a concert at an amphitheater or enjoy lots of different activities that are often offered. Katara is also the place where you can find the airconditioned street just outside of Galleries Lafayette.

Traditional dhow and pearl diving festival

And when in Katara, have a stroll in Katara Hills

I would says hills is a bit overstatement, but this little mount is a beautiful place for a walk. You can also find there a brand new, super-luxurious bungalow hotel: Katara Hill Lxr Hotel & Resorts.

There’s a beautiful Lebanese restaurant there Bayt El Talleh with a terrace offering beautiful view of the skyscrapers. It is very popular, so better book a table in advance.

Join a world-class show for free

Immerse yourself in the arts and culture of Qatar with free performances and shows at venues like the Katara Amphitheater, where world-class entertainment awaits or the Mall of Qatar.

Visit some most luxurious shops and malls

Indulge in a shopping spree at Qatar’s most luxurious boutiques and designer stores, where you can find everything from high-end fashion to exquisite jewelry and accessories. Really, in Qatar there is no end to luxury shopping.

Best luxury malls in Qatar:

• Place Vendome
• Al Hazm mall
• Villagio
• The Gate Mall
• Galleries Lafayette

Walk along Corniche admiring city views

Take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche promenade, where stunning views of the city skyline and sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf provide the perfect backdrop for a scenic walk.

Take a boat to Banana Island

Banana Island offers a holiday-like experience. It actually looks like Maldives with its overwater villas. You don’t need to stay there to visit the island, you can simply take a boat and pay a fee for the visit.

See a fort at sunset

Cross the city on a driverless metro from 2019

Qatar now has one of the most modern metros in the world. It is always sparkling clean and calm. Not to mention dirt cheap. It connects some of the popular areas in Doha and can be a great way for moving around. You can even take it from the airport for less than a dollar.

Learn the tradition of pearl diving

Qatar in the past was mainly oriented towards pearl-diving and fishing. You can learn all about it in the Qatar National Museum, at the souq in some shops (people are quite chatty and willing to tell stories) and during the festival in Katara that usually happens in December.

Visit museum of slavery

Museum of Slavery is located in Mshreib area and consists of four building, each dedicated to a different theme. It is not the most popular place to visit, but I think, it’s quite important to take some time to go there and learn the history of this region.

Go to the city beach in Westbay

I still remember that the only beaches that allowed foreigners to wear a bikini were an hour drive from Doha. The public beaches in the city required clothing that covered up most of the body (for women). A couple of years ago a few public beaches were created, where you can sunbathe in bikini and even have a beer. The entry to every of these beaches is paid.

Brunch at one of these beaches

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