10 Things to Do in Doha

Doha, in Qatar, is becoming a popular destination for world travellers due to the vast array of things to see and do in the city. While there are plenty of options for things to do, from safari trips to museums, we’ve put together a few favourites to thrill and entertain.

1. Visit the Museum of Islamic Art

Located along the Corniche on an artificial peninsula on the Doha Bay and surrounded by a serene parkland, this museum dedicated to Islamic art is on a 3 museum tour and features a collection spanning more than 1,400 years. Represented among the artifacts are ceramics, metal and woodwork, jewelry, glass, manuscripts, and textiles that span over 3 continents.

It’s among the most complete collections of Islamic works in the world, and many of the exhibits originate from places as far off as Spain, India, and Central Asia. This museum is definitely a must-see for history buffs or any travellers looking to soak up area culture.

2. Find the perfect souvenir at Souq Waqif

Souvenir shoppers or those looking to experience some local colour will definitely want to visit the ‘standing market’ in Doha. Souq Waqif (colloquially, ‘the souq’) is the place to go to find locally-made arts and crafts, clothing, souvenirs, spices, and food. It has been said to have the most authentic feel in the city in regard to its atmosphere and style.

Not only can you get locally made arts and crafts here, but there are also numerous places to eat in the souq, so you can experience outstanding local cuisine. There’s also the 980-seat indoor Al Rayyan Theatre where you can catch live entertainment.

3. See the architecture at The Pearl-Qatar

The Pearl Qatar is an artificial island that’s divided up into 12 precincts. These offer a wide range of fun and exciting activities, including seeing seaside villas, gardens, and a variety of architectural influences from Moroccan to Venetian, Roman, and more. There’s shopping, fine dining at local restaurants, and many more fun and exciting activities.

Taking the Delight of Doha & City Tour will let you visit all of the exciting attractions both on the Pearl and the other man-made islands that cover about 4 million square metres of land area, offering sightseeing and shopping opportunities.

4. Travel to the past at Katara Cultural Village

Katara Cultural Village offers you a gateway to the past. It’s truly like going back in time to visit the history and heritage of Doha and Qatar. Here you can see an authentic Greco-Roman amphitheatre that dates back to ancient times, while also walking down alleyways populated by young artisans offering their handmade arts and crafts.

Here you can find souvenirs, browse a book market, or engage in watersports on the local beach which is great for waterskiing, boat rides, parasailing, or other activities. You can also enjoy great food from chai tea cafes along the sidewalks, ice cream parlours, or restaurants.

5. Swim and sunbathe at Katara Beach

If you’re looking for some outdoor fun, you won’t want to miss Katara Beach. Here you can enjoy gorgeous, clear, turquoise waters and beautiful golden sands that stretch as far as the eye can see. Best of all, it’s not far from the city centre, so you can relax in the mornings along the waters, and then in the afternoons get in all the sightseeing you can handle!

Visitors to the beach enjoy a wide variety of amenities. For families, there’s a children’s play area. You can take a romantic gondola ride with that special someone. There’s also a wide selection of water sports.

6. Experience military history at Al Koot Fort

Al Koot Fort is also known as Doha Fort. This military fortress is in the heart of Doha and was first built in 1927. While it was originally a functioning military post, today it is a museum that offers exhibits highlighting the history of Doha. Visitors can view ornaments made from gypsum, boats and fishing equipment, arts, and crafts.

If you’re a history buff who is interested in the culture and traditions of Doha, Al Koot Fort is a great place to visit. It’s truly like stepping into the region’s past, from its traditional military architecture to the exhibits therein.

7. Get a thrill at Angry Birds World Qatar

Looking for something to thrill and excite the kids? Check out Angry Birds World Qatar. This theme park offers so much fun for the entire family that the real challenge is doing it all in 1 day. There are over 20 individual rides and a wide variety of attractions both indoor and outdoor.

Not only are there rides, games, and educational activities for the kids, adults will find outlet shopping and retail shops as well as great food and live entertainment. At this theme park, there’s plenty of fun and excitement for the entire family, and it’s all just a few steps from your Doha hotel.

8. Have a family adventure at Gondolania

When you’re done at Angry Birds World, take the kids over to Gondolania, one of the largest family entertainment attractions in the region. The venue’s located inside a mall, and you can take gondola rides, visit shops and kiosks, enjoy world-class cuisine at cafes and restaurants, and enjoy rides like roller coasters, an ice skating arena, or a roll glider.

Few attractions in the city offer as much pure fun and enjoyment at Gondolania. If you’re looking to laugh the day away, while at the same time finding the perfect souvenir and checking out classic amusement park rides, this is the place to be.

9. See the State Grand Mosque

The Grand Mosque is the state mosque of all Qatar. It’s properly referred to as the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque and is dedicated to the Sunni Muslim faith. It first opened in 2011, and features traditional Islamic architecture with many modern features inside. It’s capable of housing up to 11,000 men in the central hall, and 1,200 women in the special enclosure.

Overall the mosque can house up to 30,000 people. Those who are interested in a cultural tour of the region, or Muslims who are looking for a place to pray, will find this a popular local draw.

10. Relax at Aspire Park

Located in the southern district of Doha in what is called Aspire Zone, this park covers 88 hectares of space and is among the largest parks in the region. Here you can enjoy a relaxing day having a picnic lunch surrounded by green grass while the kids play in the local playground. There are gorgeous cascading fountains of cool water, along with a serene lake, a cafe, and other attractions.

Among the most popular attractions in the park is the 300-metre Aspire Tower with an overlook that allows you to see for miles around. It was the focal point for the 15th Asian Games in December of 2006.

These are just a few of the exciting things to do in Doha. Book your trip through Expedia and get great deals on your next hotel and flight using our filters and search tools today!