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Hello 👋
Doha – a city full of surprises. A place where modern skyscrapers and luxury hotels blend with authentic Arabian traditions. We spent a few days here, exploring what’s worth seeing and what you can skip. Some things truly impressed us, while others… well, didn’t quite live up to the hype.
If you’re curious about our overall impressions of Qatar, check out our main article—where we sum up what surprised us, what you should know before visiting, and whether Qatar is really worth the trip! 🚀
And if you’re curious about how we spent New Year’s Eve in Doha, 👉 be sure to check out our other post. Spoiler alert? The celebrations were spectacular, but getting back to the hotel was an adventure on its own. 😅
Polka Restaurant
In Doha, we stumbled upon Polka Restaurant—a place we discovered completely by accident while browsing the map. We never expected to find Polish cuisine in Qatar, so of course, we had to check it out!
It’s worth mentioning upfront—the prices are quite high for Polish dishes, but curiosity got the best of us, and we just had to see if it tasted like home. We ordered rosół (chicken broth) and a classic breaded chicken cutlet. The portions were generous, the food was hearty, and we left completely full.
A big plus was the service, especially our waiter, who was genuinely excited when he found out we were from Poland. You could tell he had a soft spot for Polish visitors, which made the experience even more enjoyable.
If you’re craving a taste of Poland in the heart of the Middle East, this place is definitely worth a visit!
Souq Waqif
One of the must-visit spots in Doha is Souq Waqif. This traditional market takes you to a completely different world – narrow alleys, the scent of spices, colorful fabrics, and the sounds of Arabic music create an incredible atmosphere.
The place is alive both during the day and in the evening. Here, you’ll find local handicrafts, jewelry, spices, perfumes, and traditional Arabic clothing. It’s worth getting lost in the maze, soaking up the atmosphere, and discovering hidden corners.
There’s no shortage of cafés and restaurants where you can try local specialties. Many recommend the famous Karak tea and grilled skewers. For those seeking more unique culinary experiences, there are even restaurants serving traditional camel dishes.
Within Souq Waqif, you’ll also find a falconry, where you can see majestic falcons, which hold special cultural significance in Qatar.
👉 For more information, visit the official website.
The Golden Thumb Statue
In the heart of Souq Waqif, we stumbled upon the Golden Thumb – an impressive sculpture by French artist César Baldaccini. This monumental installation, known as “Le Pouce” (which means “Thumb” in French), features a giant thumb and is one of the artist’s most recognizable works.
The sculpture was placed in Souq Waqif to connect the historic heart of the city with modern art, blending tradition with contemporary style. Its central location, at the top of Al Souq Street, surrounded by bustling cafés and restaurants, emphasizes its scale in comparison to the surrounding architecture.
The Pearl Monument
While strolling along the Corniche waterfront in Doha, we came across the Pearl Monument – an impressive fountain in the shape of a giant open shell with a pearl inside. This spot not only attracts tourists as a popular photo opportunity but also symbolizes Qatar’s rich history related to pearl diving.
The monument is located on Corniche Street, just before the entrance to Dhow Harbor, making it easily accessible during a walk along the coastline. In the evening, when the fountain is illuminated, the place takes on an extra charm, offering picturesque views of the bay and the city skyline.
Doha Corniche
There’s no better place for a walk in Doha than the Corniche. This seven-kilometer-long promenade runs along the coastline and is one of those spots worth visiting, no matter the time of day.
We visited several times – both during the day and in the evening – and each time the atmosphere was different. In the morning, you can see the calm bay and the city waking up, at noon the sun reflects off the futuristic skyscrapers, and in the evening, everything transforms into an amazing light show.
Msheireb Museums
Msheireb Museums consists of four restored traditional houses in the heart of Doha. Each one showcases a different aspect of Qatar’s history – from the slave trade and the beginnings of the oil industry to the daily life of residents from decades ago.
In a nutshell:
- Bin Jelmood House is a challenging topic, as it addresses the history of slavery in the region and its impact on Qatar.
- Company House is a museum dedicated to the people who worked at the beginnings of Qatar’s oil industry.
- Mohammed Bin Jassim House is an interesting point that illustrates the development of old Doha and the beginnings of the city.
- Radwani House showcases daily life in Qatar in the 20th century, offering a glimpse into a recreated traditional home.
This place offers a compact history lesson about Qatar, but without the boring approach. The museums are modern, interactive, and don’t overwhelm you with information. For more about this place, be sure to check out our impressions, which we describe in a separate article!
👉 For more information, visit the official website.
Mawater warehouse
Mawater Warehouse is a spot in Msheireb Downtown Doha that attracts car enthusiasts. It houses a café where you can enjoy a coffee surrounded by classic and sports cars. The interior is decorated with unique vehicles, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere for visitors. It’s the perfect place to relax with a cup of coffee, especially for automotive fans.
Flag Plaza
Flag Plaza is an open public space in Doha, located near MIA Park. It is home to 119 flags representing countries with diplomatic missions in Qatar, as well as the flags of the EU, UN, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
The plaza was created as part of the Years of Culture program, which aims to promote cultural exchange and international dialogue. It’s not just a space with flags, but also a venue for events, festivals, and ceremonies, where different nationalities can celebrate their traditions.
Visually, the place is impressive – the colorful flags contrast with the blue sky of Doha, creating a great backdrop for photos. If you’re strolling along the Corniche or visiting the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), it’s worth stopping by, even if just for a moment.
National Museum of Qatar
We didn’t plan to spend nearly three hours here, but the museum captivated us so much that time flew by. The National Museum of Qatar is one of those places where you don’t just walk past display cases with exhibits, but experience history through brilliantly designed interactive exhibitions.
What’s interesting here?
- 🏛 The building itself – Even from the outside, the museum is impressive. Designed by Jean Nouvel, its shape is inspired by the desert rose. It looks futuristic and completely unlike a traditional museum.
- 📜 The history of Qatar from scratch to petrodollars – The exhibition takes you through Qatar’s history, from the era of desert tribes and pearl trade to the present day, when the country’s wealth is built on oil.
- 🎥 Multimedia exhibits – There are plenty of projections, recordings, and interactive screens that make sure boredom is out of the question. You can listen to stories told by locals, see old maps, and watch archival footage.
- 🛋 Well-thought-out space – The museum is vast, but it doesn’t feel overwhelming. There are places to rest, and the exhibits are arranged in a way that you don’t have to squeeze through crowds.
Is it worth it?
Definitely! Even if you’re not a fan of museums, you’re unlikely to get bored here. The whole place is very modern, creatively designed, and helps you understand how Qatar transformed from a desert country into a global giant. If you’re planning to visit Doha, make sure to add the NMoQ to your list of must-see places.
👉 For more information, visit the official website.
Souq Waqif Park
Souq Waqif Park is a small yet charming park located right by the Corniche in Doha. It’s the perfect spot for a moment of relaxation after exploring the vibrant Souq Waqif. Well-maintained pathways, lush greenery, and views of the bay make it an ideal place for a short stroll or a rest in the shade of the trees. If you’re looking for a peaceful corner in the heart of the city, this park is a great choice.
Lusail Stadium
During our journey to Lusail Boulevard for New Year’s Eve, we had the chance to see Lusail Stadium. It’s an impressive structure that served as the main venue for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, hosting the final between Argentina and France. The stadium can hold around 80,000 spectators and is the largest sports facility in Qatar. Its modern architecture truly catches the eye.
👉 For more information, visit the official website.
Lusail Boulevard
Lusail Boulevard is one of the most modern places in Qatar, quickly becoming a hub for events and entertainment. Located in Lusail City, near Lusail Stadium, it’s a wide avenue surrounded by tall buildings, restaurants, and luxury boutiques.
We visited on New Year’s Eve when the entire boulevard was closed off to traffic and transformed into a giant pedestrian zone. The atmosphere felt like one big celebration – live music, a DJ, light displays, and of course, fireworks and a drone show.
Apart from special events, Lusail Boulevard is also worth visiting during the day. You can take a walk, stop for a coffee at one of the trendy cafés, or simply soak in the vibe of a modern, futuristic city.
Katara Cultural Village
Katara is one of those places in Doha worth visiting if you want to experience a bit more of the local atmosphere. It’s a large complex filled with museums, galleries, theaters, and restaurants, but not in the typical modern style – instead, the architecture is inspired by traditional Arabian buildings.
What can you see here?
- 🎭 Amphitheater – a massive open space in an ancient style. It’s impressive, though if you don’t catch an event, there’s not much to do here besides taking a photo.
- 🕌 Katara Mosque – one of the most beautiful mosques in Doha, featuring stunning mosaics. Even if you can’t go inside, it’s worth seeing up close.
- 🖼 Art galleries – if you’re interested in art, it’s worth stopping by. Some exhibitions are very interesting, others less so, but there’s always something happening.
- 🍽 Food – Katara offers quite a good selection of restaurants. From local dishes to Turkish specialties and European flavors. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to eat here, but the place looked very inviting.
- 🏖 Beach near Katara – yes, you can find a beach in this area! Although it’s not a spot for a spontaneous dip, as there are certain dress code rules, the views are quite pleasant.
Is it worth visiting Katara?
Yes, but without high expectations. It’s a nice place for a peaceful walk, especially in the evening when it cools down. If you’re into culture and art, you’ll definitely find something for yourself. However, if you’re expecting something spectacular, you might feel a bit underwhelmed. We were satisfied, but didn’t feel the need to return a second time.
👉 For more information, visit the official website.
Al Zubara Fort
During our trip to Qatar, we decided to visit Al Zubara Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The fort is located about 105 km northwest of Doha, which meant a drive of around one and a half hours by car.
There is a parking lot right next to the fort, which was very convenient for us. After parking, we could immediately begin our visit. The fort has been transformed into a museum, showcasing various exhibits related to the history of the region. As we walked through its interiors, we were able to feel the atmosphere of ancient times and learn more about Qatar’s past. Entry for tourists is free.
Al Khor Family Park & Zoo
Al Khor Family Park & Zoo is a small recreational park with a mini-zoo, located in the city of Al Khor, about 50 km north of Doha. In theory, it’s a place designed for families, where you can relax, take a walk, and see a few animals. In practice, however, our experience was rather average.
Buying tickets was a challenge in itself – the ticket counter doesn’t accept card payments, which seems absurd in 2024. Instead, you have to use a very outdated online system that is so unintuitive it can be quite frustrating. At the entrance, the security guard scanned our QR code, but it didn’t seem like a particularly thorough verification – we got the impression that he could have accepted any code, even one from a supermarket loyalty app.
There are several animal enclosures on-site, but it’s hard to describe the collection as spectacular. The conditions in which the animals are kept didn’t leave the best impression on us. The spaces seem small, and the whole place has a somewhat neglected feel to it.
If you’re looking for a park for a walk, this could be an option, but for those expecting an interesting zoo experience, there’s really nothing here to explore. The whole place seems like it once had great potential, but unfortunately, it hasn’t kept up with the times. On top of that, the problematic ticketing system creates unnecessary frustration from the start of the visit. It’s not a place we’d return to.
Summary
Qatar is a place that can surprise you, but at the same time, it leaves a certain sense of wanting more. Doha is definitely a city you can explore in a few days, taking your time and enjoying the modern architecture, museums, and local markets. On one hand, there are the modern skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and an excellent public transport system; on the other hand, places like Souq Waqif remind you of Qatar’s traditional side.
One of the biggest highlights for us was the National Museum of Qatar. It’s one of the best-designed buildings we’ve visited. The country’s history is presented in an accessible, engaging way, and the place itself looks like a set from a science fiction movie. Such things definitely make an impression.
Outside of Doha, Qatar doesn’t have quite the same impact. We drove a bit outside the city and quickly realized that without a 4×4, you can’t expect many adventures. If someone wants to explore more than the capital, they’ll need a 4×4, as most of the interesting spots are located in the desert.
In summary, Qatar is an interesting destination for a short city break. Doha has a lot to offer in terms of modern architecture, culture, and food. You can easily spend 3-4 days here and see everything at a relaxed pace. However, if you’re looking for more varied landscapes and interesting places outside the capital, you might be slightly disappointed. We’re glad we got to see the country, but it’s probably not a place we’ll return to regularly. However, as a stopover or a short getaway for a warm weekend – it’s definitely worth it.
