How to experience the best of Doha in just 3 days – from man-made marvels to natural settings

Doha, the capital city of Qatar is a modern-day metropolis which merges olden day traditions with contemporary thinking and comes across as one of the busiest transit points in the world. To those looking to uncover its every fascinating element across a 3-day period, then perusing the detailed guide below will certainly be of value.

Best time to travel

Qanat Quartier in Doha | Image via Unsplash

Doha’s searing temperatures tend to ease off in November which coincides with the annual winter season. Therefore, the months covering November through March is by far the most favourable time of year to be arriving in Doha.

Day One

Commence your travels in the Qatari capital be venturing out to the splendid environs encapsulating the Doha Corniche. Stretching out for 7 km and set against the brilliance of Doha’s skyline, this walkway will afford you all the encouragement you need to go on long walks and admire colossal buildings which are symbolic of the city’s business side. With numerous heritage sites and tourist hotspots scattering its immediate vicinity, you will never be short of a reason to linger on, well in to the day. 

Be sure to pose against the Pearl Monument which represents the region’s thriving pearl diving industry. Made up of a gigantic open oyster from where a gentle flow of water can be witnessed, the allure of this landmark is enhanced by a gleaming pearl which is found at the center of the oyster. Next up is a trip to the Museum of Islamic Art which lays claim to the world’s largest collection of Islamic art and is characterised by an educational centre, library, gallery and in impressive dome which will undoubtedly be one of the main talking points of your trip. Conclude your 1st day in Doha by beelining towards the central market of the city – the Souq Waqif where you will encounter many an example of Qatari architecture splashed across its streets, stalls and eateries. 

Found near Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli from where you may enjoy the best flexible rate on bookings, visitors can divide their time shopping for priceless souvenirs such as colourful lamps and detailed hand-woven rugs and munching on flavourful cuisine before trying their hand at some shisha.

Day Two

No sooner you polish off breakfast, set about combing the city’s streets en route to reaching the largest mosque in the whole of Qatar which is called the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque. Adorned in striking architectural facets form top to bottom, this place of worship showcases over 90 domes and is one of the finest destinations in Doha which does require its patrons to be decently attired prior to being allowed in. Delve into the heart of Qatar’s history by calling by the magnificently appointed Qatar National Library which is located in Education City. 

As a literary masterpiece, the Library possesses an unmatched number of historic books that will whet your appetite for detail and a nation’s progression. Thereafter, get a dose of world class luxury within the spectacular setting of Villagio Mall which is designed in accordance to a Venetian-styled theme. 

Replete with gondolas and picturesque canals which flow through the center of Villagio Mall, shopaholics will be handed a unique opportunity to purchase leading brands and labels before being treated to a leisure spectacle that revolves around going ice skating, enjoying some bowling and watching a movie.

Day Three

Allocate a majority of your last day in Doha for the acclaimed site of the Katara Cultural Village which brims with an awe-inspiring series of buildings and leisure thrills that will most certainly be a highlight of your holiday. Stumble upon a Greek amphitheatre, two mosques, airy art galleries, restaurants and even an inviting beach where you may while away the hours and learn the finer points of wakeboarding or parasailing. Before you place a full-stop to your adventures in Doha, be sure to employ the services of a local tour company who will happily assist you in planning a desert safari which will promise action with every twist, turn and bump along the way. 

Go sandboarding, ride a camel or simply get inside a 4x4 and allow your driver to lead the way as part of a dune bashing session that will leave you with a new found love for these arid lands.