Doha, Qatar - a complete travel guide

DOHA - TOP ACTIVITIES, PLACES TO VISIT, ACCOMMODATION AND OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION

Doha is one of those places we weren't planning on visiting anytime soon, but on our way to Thailand we had a very long layover, so we took advantage and visited the city.

I was very excited to have the opportunity to visit it, even though the time we had was quite short and we didn't even manage to check off not even half of the activities we had on our list for that day. However, we managed to get an idea of ​​the location and in this way, share some information, which I hope will be useful to you.

HOW DO YOU GET TO DOHA?

Doha Airport is one of the most important in the Middle East, being one of the connecting points between Europe (and not only) with many cities in Asia. Most likely, if you arrive here, the flight will be with Qatar Airways.

Once you arrive at Hamad International Airport, things are simple. There is a direct metro to many areas of Doha. The cost of a trip is quite low. For a full day, with unlimited trips, the price is 6 QR (~€1.45)/person.

WHERE DO YOU STAY IN DOHA?

The accommodation options are quite varied, and the quality-price ratio is more than decent, in most cases. Among the options listed on Booking, the ones that caught my attention are:

• Mondrian Doha - 5-star accommodation unit, which has double rooms. It is equipped with an indoor pool, fitness room, 6 restaurants, parking, and on request, airport transfer is offered;

• Ramada by Wyndham Doha Old Town - 4-star accommodation unit, which has standard double or twin rooms. The location is equipped with its own restaurant, and on request services such as room service or airport transfer are offered;

• Hampton By Hilton Doha Old Town - 3-star accommodation unit, which has standard double/twin or family rooms. It has its own restaurant, fitness room, parking and accepts pets;

• Wyndham Grand Doha West Bay Beach - 5-star accommodation unit, which has both standard double/twin rooms and apartments with up to 3 rooms, which can accommodate up to 9 people. The location is equipped with 3 restaurants, a spa area and a fitness room.

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT DOHA

• I was surprised that Doha is not a pricey destination compared to European cities. Prices are quite decent for transportation (uber, taxi, or metro), as well as for excursions and accommodations;

• The metro in Doha is compartmentalized. There are special carriages for men and special carriages for families/couples. To help you find your way, there are signs in the stations and above the doors;

• The distances between locations and tourist attractions are quite large, and a lot of time is spent on the road. This aspect should be taken into consideration, especially if you're visiting Doha during a layover.

• Qatar is an Islamic country and therefore the rules and laws are a little different from those in Europe. Alcohol and pork are very hard to find, and kissing and hugging in public are forbidden (only holding hands is accepted);

• The local currency is called Riyal. It can be withdrawn from ATMs directly from local currency card, or you can exchange euros or dollars at local exchange offices;

• The internet card can be purchased right at the airport. Your passport is required to purchase it. You can also opt for the e-sim.

DOHA, QATAR - PLACES TO VISIT AND ACTIVITIES:

Katara Cultural Village - is a cultural complex, where both locals and tourists can enjoy various activities or cultural events. Also here you can visit the Katara Mosque, one of the most interesting buildings in the “village”.

Although the architectural style does not fall into the modernist category, like that of skyscrapers, but rather follows the traditional Qatari style, this location is not a historical one, having been inaugurated quite recently, more precisely in 2010.

Entrance to the complex is free, but most of the activities and places that can be visited charge entrance fees.

Souq Waqif is a local market, which has become one of the most important tourist attractions in the capital of Qatar. It is a much livelier location in the evening, compared to the day, and is ideal for walking, shopping, or dining.

You can opt for a guided tour, which also includes this area, details here.

The Pearl Qatar, also known as the Arabian Riviera, it is an artificial island and also an exclusive area, judging by the yachts anchored in the harbor and the multitude of luxury shops.

It is the ideal place to spend a relaxing day, either at one of the cafes in the area or by a pool. If you are spending several days in Doha, you may want to consider booking accommodation on this island.

The Museum of Islamic Art is one of the most important such museums in the world. Here you can admire both historical artifacts and works of art. It is arranged on several levels, and the building is located in the Corniche area, offering spectacular views of the skyscrapers and the sea.

Although it is not a religious institution, but rather one with a religious theme, please note that a certain dress code is recommended. Shoulders and knees must be covered.

The National Museum of Qatar is one of the most interesting buildings in Doha and also the ideal place to learn interesting things about the history of this country. The inspiration for the architecture of the building came from nature, it being built after the desert rose.

Mina District

If I had to recommend one place that you should not miss if you visit Doha, it would definitely be Mina District. What can you do here? You can start with a walk through the streets with colorful buildings, letting yourself be distracted from time to time by the boutiques with artisan products. A visit to one of the most interesting fish markets in the world, the flag market, or relaxing at one of the restaurants or cafes in the area, can be some of the activities that are worth including in your itinerary.

Villagio Mall is the most interesting shopping center in Doha. Its interior looks like a small Venice, with gondolas sailing on the artificial canals. It is worth considering, even if you are not a shopping enthusiast. Many visitors compare it to a “little piece” of Las Vegas.

The Corniche is a promenade area (and not only), which stretches for several kilometers along the coast. It is also the place where you can admire the tall glass buildings. The location becomes much more lively after dark. To best admire the view, I recommend a ride on a traditional Qatari boat, details here.

Msheireb Downtown is the city center, ideal for a walk, or for relaxing on one of the terraces. What makes this area so special? I would say it is one of the few areas in this world where the temperature is controlled. Although there are streets, which are not in any way indoors, they are equipped with air conditioning.

Parisa Restaurant, although it does not fall into the touristic attraction category, I still chose to include it, considering that it is one of the most interesting locations of its kind in Doha. The interior is absolutely fascinating, and the cuisine is Persian.

DAY TRIPS FROM DOHA

Safari in the desert

A ride through the sand dunes, either by ATV or 4x4, can be the ideal activity for those who want to have a little adventure. To enjoy such an experience it is necessary to book an organized tour. You can choose a complete tour, which includes camel riding, sunboarding and Jeep Safari, details here.

Al Khor Island, also known as Purple Island, is located approximately 60 km from Doha. Its name dates back to ancient times, when the island was famous for the extraction of purple dye pigment from the shells of sea snails.

Al Thakira Mangroves is one of the few areas in Qatar that is not desert, on the contrary, it is a true green oasis, being the largest mangrove forest in the country.

You can opt for a tour that includes both the trip to Purple Island and the mangrove forest, details here.

CONCLUSIONS ABOUT DOHA

Doha is the type of city that fits perfectly into the mold of places that deserve more than a single day to explore. Long, relaxing walks through the streets, exploring museums, lying on the beach, and even exploring the surroundings certainly require a few days.

Personally, I'm glad I had the opportunity to visit it, even for a day, and I can say that I can't wait for my next visit. 😁.

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