Doha Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Photo provided by Shutterstock
Photo provided by Visit Qatar
Photo provided by Visit Qatar
Photo provided by Visit Qatar
Photo provided by Visit Qatar

A mix of traditional Qatari art and culture and ultra-modern architecture and opportunities make this Middle Eastern city a fascinating destination.

Doha, Qatar’s capital, began as a tribal port settlement in a desert land, with pearl diving, fishing and sea trade supporting its economy. When the nation developed an oil industry, Doha began a rapid path of modernization. Visit this fascinating city that preserves traditions of art, religion and markets alongside impressive architecture and technological investment.

Modernizing while preserving traditions is part of the country’s long-term plan, Qatar National Vision 2030. Stroll along Doha’s pretty shoreline to view both aspects of the city. From the Doha Corniche and peaceful MIA Park, gaze out over the Persian Gulf, where pearl divers found treasures in the sea. Look for the Pearl Monument commemorating the importance of the gems to Doha’s early economy. Turn inland to view the dramatic skyline of modern high-rises such as the Doha Tower gleaming in the sun.

Jutting out over the bay, the Museum of Islamic Art showcases 14 centuries of intriguing art from Qatar and elsewhere. A bit inland, step into the Souq Waqif’s busy alleys to experience a traditional marketplace with Middle Eastern treasures. Purchase spices, sample local foods, observe falconry and browse art galleries. With the futuristic shape of a desert rose, the nearby National Museum of Qatar provides insights on the nation’s past, present and future.

Many modern developments are on Doha’s western side. The impressive Education City Stadium and Khalifa International Stadium show the nation’s dedication to promoting sports. Hosting international soccer competitions gives Qatar a chance to demonstrate its hospitality. Aspire Tower is a five-star hotel, with a shape resembiing a blazing torch. Education Cityhas numerous international satellite universities. Nearby, appreciate the modern architecture of Qatar National Library and Qatar National Convention Centre.

Arrive in Qatar at Hamad International Airport, about a 20-minute drive from Doha Port and downtown. Include time in your schedule to visit modern and traditional sites outside Doha, including gleaming new developments at Pearl-Qatar and Lusail and ancient forts and ancient wells on the Qatar peninsula.

Where to stay in Doha

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West Bay

3/5(1 area review)

Noted for its beaches and restaurants, there's plenty to explore in West Bay. Top attractions like Katara Cultural Village and Katara Beach are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Katara Station or Al Qassar Station to see more of the city.

West Bay
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Diplomatic Area

5/5(11 area reviews)

The beaches and abundant dining options are just a few top-rate features of the neighbourhood. Make a stop by City Centre Shopping Mall or Doha Corniche while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at DECC Station to get around town.

Diplomatic Area
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Msheireb Downtown

5/5(1 area review)

If you're spending time in Msheireb Downtown, check out sights like Msheireb Museums or Al Khoot Fort and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Al Baraha Tram Stop or Sahat Al-Masjid Tram Stop.

Msheireb Downtown
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Al Jasra

4.5/5(8 area reviews)

While visiting Al Jasra, you might make a stop by sights like Pearl Monument and Souq Waqif.

Al Jasra
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Al Sadd

Shopping and spas are just a few features Al Sadd is known for, and you can get around the area by hopping on the metro at Joaan Station or Hamad Hospital Station.

Al Sadd
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Musherib

Musherib is well liked for its restaurants, and you can visit sights like Souq Waqif Art Center and Gold Souq if you have time to explore the area.

Musherib
Oryx Airport Hotel

Oryx Airport Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Hamad International Airport, Doha, Qatar
The price is NZ$497 per night from 5 Aug to 6 Aug
NZ$497
5 Aug - 6 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star spa hotel in Doha. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and 16 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,165 reviews)
"Quick walk from boarding gates. You feel like you're at home between flights. Flight info and changes are displayed on a TV channel in the room. They will wake you up on time for your next flight. Stressless!"

Reviewed on 13 Jul. 2025

Oryx Airport Hotel
Fairmont Doha

Fairmont Doha

5 out of 5
6th Street Marina District Lusail City, Doha, Al Daayen
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$351 per night from 30 July to 31 July
NZ$351
30 July - 31 July
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Doha. Enjoy free WiFi, free valet parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (172 reviews)
"This property was one of the most awesome properties that I have every stayed in. The property and staff were beyond excellent. I recommend this property!"

Reviewed on 27 Jun. 2025

Fairmont Doha
Radisson Blu Hotel Doha

Radisson Blu Hotel Doha

5 out of 5
Salwa Road and C Ring Road, Bin Mahmoud Area, Doha
The price is NZ$137 per night from 26 July to 27 July
NZ$137
26 July - 27 July
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Doha. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 9 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews)
"Nice and clean"

Reviewed on 7 Jul. 2025

Radisson Blu Hotel Doha
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Steigenberger Residence Doha

Steigenberger Residence Doha

5 out of 5
Ibn Muawiya St, Doha
Stay at this 5-star luxury aparthotel in Doha. Enjoy a full-service spa, 3 restaurants, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (82 reviews)
"We stayed in the residence side and the room were sooo modern and had every white goods needed for a comfterable space. Highly recommned this hotel. The pool, food, staff memebers alll soo professional and very very nice. Location is close to the main attractions can walk to sm destinations or taxi ..."

Reviewed on 30 May 2025

Steigenberger Residence Doha
the continent residence

the continent residence

4.5 out of 5
Al kinana street, 82, Doha, Doha
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Doha. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Souq Waqif and Doha Corniche are ...
"Very clean property and very safe and that's actually the case in all hotels in Qatar very safe ."

Reviewed on 7 Dec. 2024

the continent residence
Retaj Baywalk Residence

Retaj Baywalk Residence

4.5 out of 5
Street 140, Doha, Ad Dawah
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury residence in Doha. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Popular attractions Katara Beach and City Centre Shopping ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (20 reviews)
"Beautiful neighbourhood with beach, sea, dining places. Very welcoming and helpful staff."

Reviewed on 28 Jun. 2025

Retaj Baywalk Residence
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Activities

Reviews of Doha

4.1
Top destination
5 - Excellent
15
5 - Excellent 25%
4 - Good
33
4 - Good 56%
3 - Okay
10
3 - Okay 17%
2 - Disappointing
1
2 - Disappointing 2%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

transit only with small child; government taxi at airport log out for safety

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Wonderful corniche, beautiful mall , mixing heritage and civilization

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

As a place to visit in transit it was very interesting

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

good location within walking distance to souk and super friendly staff

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

Too hot and humid during the day to do anything other than go to a modern shopping centre. The Souk was interesting and a good place for dinner after the sun goes down.

4/5 - Good

Sept

Great city, amazing architecture ,just get a good reputable guide for a city tour.

Cities near Doha