Maybe you’re already planning to explore Doha specifically, or are looking for a bustling city in the middle east to do some sight-seeing, shopping, and eating. Here is a flexible 3 day itinerary and what I recommend doing in Doha based on my visit and observations.
On my recent flight, I decided to take a three day (65 hours to be exact) stopover in Doha, and I couldn’t recommend this approach more. But with only three days on hand, don’t expect to crisscross all of Qatar’s farthest nooks and crannies. This is just enough to take a look at the capital city – Doha. And trust me, it is a city worth exploring.
Why is this itinerary called Flexible? Because whoever you are – a family with children, an adventurous solo traveler or a couple of lovebirds – I try to provide an option for you. It is also adaptable depending on which day of the week and at what time you arrive.
Table of contents
Where to stay in Doha, Qatar?
When it comes to choosing where to stay in Doha, I recommend the area near Souq Waqif, the National Museum or somewhere in between. This way you will have direct access to not only two main must-visits, but also the metro.
But if your favorite hotel is a bit of the beaten path, don’t fret as Doha offers an extensive metro system (more on that later!) and getting pretty much anywhere won’t be a problem. It is a good idea to double check that a metro station is within walking distance. Enabling the “Transit” view on Google Maps works well for this.
Getting from Hamad International Airport – and around in Doha
Say it with me: WE – LOVE – THE – METRO.
Doha offers an extensive metro system which is a quick and comfortable way of getting around the city. And if you’re used to European metro systems (which although not bad, are not necessarily the most pleasant environments), prepare to be blown away by Qatar’s state-of-the-art metro – beautiful, clean and modern. All the places I will be suggesting in this itinerary are close by a metro station.
For only 6 QAR (about 1.4 €) you can get yourself an unlimited day pass. There are various passes which may be beneficial if you’re staying for one week or longer, but for three days, you won’t spend more than 18 QAR and that is a good deal for the flexibility you get.
This is also the way I suggest you get from and to the airport. The last metro departure from the airport is at 00:21 AM, after that you will need to take a taxi which costs upward 50 QAR to get to the city center. Check the up-to-date first and last timings for the metro on the official Qatar Rail website.
Pro tip: Get on the first or last metro carriage to enjoy the view straight ahead into the tunnel!
Day 1
As you will notice when browsing hotels in Doha, most of them offer breakfast. I highly recommend you choose a stay with breakfast included, as you will save a lot compared to buying it on the spot. A hearty breakfast including local specialties as well as western comfort food is the best way to fuel up before a long day of exploration.
10:00 – 13:00 Start off educated – go to a museum!
With your belly full, start your Doha journey with learning about the State of Qatar and the local culture. You have two main options: The National Museum of Qatar and the Museum of Islamic Arts. The former focuses on the history of Qatar itself, and offers excellent exhibitions and stunning architecture. Most of this applies to the latter, but expect a broader focus on Islamic countries and their history and arts. Choose whichever interests you more, but keep in mind that the National Museum is closed on Tuesdays, while the Museum of Islamic Arts is closed on Wednesdays.
It is recommended to book your tickets in advance. Do so here for the National Museum of Qatar and here for the Museum of Islamic Arts.
If traveling with your family, do check out what’s on for families offered by Qatar Museums.
14:00 – 17:00 A walk in the (Al Bidda) Park
Al Bidda Park is a large park located close by the Corniche area. A great getaway from the rest of the city, which is mostly dry and lacks greenery. Now is a good time to visit the park, when the sun isn’t as intense as during noon.
Other than being a very pleasant place in general, there are multiple things worth seeing – Qatar’s National Flag placed atop a pyramid, a playground and a couple of cafés. This is also the area where you’ll find Dadu Gardens, an interactive outdoor gallery which describes itself as a “living classroom” and is targeting visitors between 0-11 years accompanied by parents.
17:30 – 20:00 Soak in the culture at Katara Cultural Village
To get more of a local vibe than the main city, Katara Cultural Village offers a representation of a traditional Qatari village (although with a lot of “touristification”). Aside from being beautiful to simply walk around in (let’s let the pictures speak for themselves), it offers various souvenir shops, stores and dining options. From straight up fancy to modest hidden gems.
This is also a great place to grab one of the must-eats in Qatar – Chapati and Karak – a popular and widely available type of flatbread paired with a heartwarming spiced tea with milk. Simple and delicious treat or breakfast that I recommend you try during your trip.
Day 2
On this day we will dive into the city’s market – the traditional bazaar-style in contrast with a modern multi-story mall. And what’s a better way to end the day than a sunset on the beach?
9:30 – 12:00 Browse a traditional market: Souq Waqif
Souq Waqif is a traditional bazaar with shop stalls selling everything from typical tourist magnets like handicrafts and souvenirs, to spices and dried fruit but even household items and birds. Shops will mostly be open between 10-12 AM and later 4-10 PM.
13:00 – 16:00 Perks of a big city: shopping in the Doha city center mall
It will be no problem at all to spend hours in the City Center Doha mall. Games and playgrounds for kids, plethora of choices for foodies, and not-so-bad prices for all the shopping enthusiasts. I myself got my hands on some handy travel gear and clothing.
If you get out after dark, you may observe the beautifully lit buildings and skyscrapers all around you. Although you can head to the metro without sticking your nose outside, this is a sight I certainly recommend.
17:00 – 20:00 Watch the sunset at West Bay Beach
After leaving your precious shopping bags at the hotel, you will probably want to relax for a moment. And I know no better way to do that than watching the sunset while sipping a drink on the beach.
There are multiple beaches and beach clubs in Doha, and it should be no problem finding one close by. A great choice is West Bay Beach; It faces the west and is an ideal spot to watch the sunset. The entry fee will be 30-50 QAR depending on day of the week. You will have access to sunbeds and multiple restaurants to soothe your dinner or cocktail cravings. There is also a dedicated kids playground and pool.
Day 3 (Last day!)
Usually, check-out at the hotel will be around noon. I suggest that you head straight to the airport after packing up, even if there is plenty of time before your flight.
12:00 Check-out and head to airport
Hamad International Airport is no ordinary terminal, but rather a splendid mix of architecture, luxury and experiences. After you check-in your luggage (which, by the way, Qatar Airways let’s you do up to 6 hours prior to departure), head into the vast building of Terminal 1 to explore, among other things, works of art, an indoor airport train and of course The Orchard, which is a indoor tropical park featuring cozy paths among live trees and vegetation and even a waterfall.
If you have a lot of time to spare, you will find various activities including a swimming pool, squash, lounges, quiet areas and a play area for children.
Have a nice trip!