Doha

Travel 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

West Bay

West Bay

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
Hotel Park

Diplomatic Area

The beaches and abundant dining options are just a few top-rate features of the neighborhood. 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

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 the city at Al Baraha Tram Stop or Sahat Al-Masjid Tram Stop.

Msheireb Downtown
Al Jasra

Al Jasra

If you're spending some time in Al Jasra, Pearl Monument and Souq Waqif are top sights worth seeing.

Al Jasra
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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
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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
Oryx Airport Hotel
Oryx Airport Hotel
3.5 out of 5
Hamad International Airport, Doha, Qatar
The price is P17,821 per night from Jul 28 to Jul 29
P17,821
P17,821 total
Jul 28 - Jul 29
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! (1,153 reviews)
"Perfect for long layover"

Reviewed on Jul 7, 2025

Oryx Airport Hotel
Fairmont Doha
Fairmont Doha
5 out of 5
6th Street Marina District Lusail City, Doha, Al Daayen
The price is P11,855 per night from Jul 27 to Jul 28
P11,855
P11,855 total
Jul 27 - Jul 28
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! (168 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 Jun 27, 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 P4,646 per night from Jul 27 to Jul 28
P4,646
P4,646 total
Jul 27 - Jul 28
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! (1,000 reviews)
"Nice and clean"

Reviewed on Jul 7, 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 May 30, 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 Dec 7, 2024

the continent residence
Abraj INN Royal 2
Abraj INN Royal 2
5 out of 5
Oqba Bin Nafie St, 208, Doha, Doha Municipality
Stay at this 5-star luxury aparthotel in Doha. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a rooftop terrace. Popular attractions Souq Waqif and Doha Corniche are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (4 reviews)
Nice little hidden spot
"Great rooms, solid selection of food and regular stores around the corner(bout a 5ish mins walk). Even better service, shout out to Roumaissa(Hopefully thats correct), Hijab lady at the front desk. She was amazing. I had a choice to switch hotels(since i got stuck in Doha) and my initial interactionwith ..."

Reviewed on Jun 27, 2025

Abraj INN Royal 2
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

Things to do

Reviews of Doha

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Top Destination
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4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

I wasn’t able to go around much since I need to cut my vacation and go back home due to my dad’s untimely demised. What I noticed is that it needs more metro lines that is accessible to major locations like hotels, landmarks, shopping.