The Best Things to Do in the Qatari Capital

Doha, the vibrant capital of Qatar, is a city where tradition meets modernity in the most spectacular ways. From awe-inspiring architecture and world-class museums to authentic culinary experiences and stunning public art, Doha offers visitors a unique blend of cultural immersion and contemporary luxury. Whether you’re wandering through its bustling souks or marveling at its cutting-edge designs, this city promises to captivate your senses. Here are some of the best things to do in and around Doha.

Bayt Sharq: A Traditional Qatari Breakfast Experience
There are few better ways to start your day in Doha than with a traditional Qatari breakfast at Bayt Sharq. Nestled around the palm-filled courtyard of a century-old house, this charming spot offers a delightful ambiance whether you choose to dine outdoors during the cooler months or retreat to the cosy interior to escape the summer heat. Here, you can indulge in local breakfast favorites like balaleet and foul, paired with freshly baked breads from the tandoor and a pot of hot, sweet karak tea to fuel your day of exploration.

National Museum of Qatar: A Journey Through History and Culture
A short ride from Bayt Sharq, the National Museum of Qatar provides an immersive experience into the country’s rich history and culture. Designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel and inspired by the unique formations of desert rose crystals, the building itself is a masterpiece. Inside, the exhibits span from 700 million years ago to the present, covering everything from Qatar’s natural environment and archaeology to human history, the pearl trade, the discovery of oil, and modern innovations. The museum also includes the restored palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani and Jiwan by Alain Ducasse, a restaurant where French fine dining meets contemporary Qatari cuisine.

Public Art in Doha: A Citywide Gallery of Surprising Masterpieces
Doha is a city where art transcends the walls of galleries and museums. From a giant golden thumb by César Baldaccini to Damien Hirst’s striking bronze sculptures of a developing fetus, the city’s public art installations are nothing short of surprising. Download Qatar Museums’ updated art map to plan your own art adventure. While many works are scattered across the city, some of the most impressive installations require a journey outside the capital, such as Richard Serra’s towering steel plates in Zekreet and Olafur Eliasson’s mirrored rings in Al Zubarah. Rent a car and set out to explore these artistic marvels.

The Corniche: A Scenic Waterfront Promenade
Stretching seven kilometers from West Bay to the Museum of Islamic Art, Doha’s Corniche offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll. On cooler days, it’s the perfect place to take in views of traditional wooden dhows bobbing on the water, with the city’s towering skyline in the background. Along the way, you’ll also encounter public art installations, including Jeff Koon’s striking Dugong sculpture. The Corniche is a must-visit for those looking to experience the serene beauty of Doha’s waterfront.

Museum of Islamic Art: A Showcase of Islamic Heritage
Following a recent enhancement of its permanent collection, the I.M. Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Art stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Islamic world. The museum’s collection features exquisite pieces from metalwork and textiles to glassware, calligraphy, and ceramics, with highlights including a 1,000-year-old astrolabe and the newly revealed Damascus Room, a fully restored reception area from the 1800s. The building itself, inspired by traditional Islamic architecture, is as captivating as the treasures it holds.

Souk Waqif: A Vibrant Traditional Market
No visit to Doha is complete without spending a few hours at Souk Waqif, a vibrant market where trading has taken place for over a century. Despite a renovation in 2006, the souk retains its traditional charm, offering a wide array of goods from fragrances and fabrics to spices and sequins. Even during the midday lull when most shops close, there’s plenty to do—grab a bite at Damasca One, enjoy a Persian lunch at Parisa, or relax with tea and shisha at a streetside café. As evening falls, the souk comes alive with activity, making it one of the best places in Doha to soak up the local atmosphere.

Msheireb Downtown: Doha’s Stylish Modern Neighborhood
Just a short walk from Souk Waqif, Msheireb Downtown is one of Doha’s most stylish and walkable neighborhoods. Here, you’ll find an array of great restaurants, intriguing museums, chic boutiques, and plenty of trendy cafés where you can people-watch with a coffee in hand. The neighborhood is also home to M7, Doha’s hub for design, fashion, and technology, where recent exhibitions have featured the works of Christian Dior and Valentino. Don’t miss the excellent Studio 7 concept store, showcasing local designers on the ground floor.

Embrace Doha: A Cultural Immersion Experience
Located south of Doha’s Hamad International Airport in Al Wakrah, Embrace Doha offers visitors a chance to gain a deeper understanding of Qatari culture. The welcoming majlis hosts sessions on Bedouin coffee culture, traditional weaving, leatherwork, bakhoor, and scent-making, providing a hands-on cultural experience. They also offer guided tours of Souk Waqif, where you can dive into the local street food scene and explore Doha’s culinary delights.

Palace Guard Camel Patrol: A Glimpse into Qatari Tradition
As you wander through the modern streets of Doha, keep an eye out for the palace guards patrolling on camel-back—a striking contrast to the city’s contemporary architecture. These camels and their riders set off from Souk Waqif, patrolling the area around the Amiri Diwan Palace. Catching a glimpse of this traditional spectacle feels like stepping back in time. When they’re not on patrol, you can visit the camels in their pens next to the souk.

Khor Al-Adaid and the Inland Sea: Qatar’s Natural Wonder
An hour’s drive southeast of Doha lies Khor Al-Adaid, better known as the Inland Sea. This natural wonder is one of the few places in the world where towering sand dunes meet the turquoise sea. To reach the area, you’ll need a 4WD vehicle, and while experienced off-road drivers may venture out on their own, joining an organized tour from Doha is highly recommended. Most tours include a thrilling dune-bashing experience and time to swim in the crystal-clear waters, making it a must-do adventure for nature lovers.

In conclusion, Doha is a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new, offering a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, modern marvels, and natural wonders. From its vibrant markets and world-class museums to its stunning public art and serene waterfronts, the Qatari capital is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression on every visitor. Whether you’re exploring the city’s historic souks or venturing out to the breathtaking Inland Sea, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences waiting for you in Doha.