Itineraries for Your Trip to Doha
2 Days in Doha for First Timers
Few places in the Middle East are as convenient to reach and explore as the city of Doha. Now that the capital of Qatar is a common layover point, there’s never been a better time to break up a long journey with two days in Doha sightseeing.
My first stopover in Doha was fuelled by curiosity, but lacked a plan. I had only a vague plan for how to spend two days in Doha during my first time in Doha. Unfortunately, I missed out on some activities and attractions that would have really elevated the experience. You don’t have to make those same mistakes, since this 2-day Doha itinerary for first timers gives you a straightforward plan to follow.
Leave outdoor sightseeing for mornings and evenings, as the midday desert heat can be intense.
If you only have time for one thing, make it watching the sunset of the West Bay skyline from MIA Park.
A general introduction to the city is the best way to start two days in Doha for first-timers. Take a city tour to learn about the city and check off some must-see Doha attractions. See the manmade island of the Pearl-Qatar and its Venetian-inspired Qanat Quartier, the striking new Lusail Katara Twin Tower nearby, and the eclectic mix of attractions of the Katara Cultural Village
Visit some of Doha’s exceptional museums for a reprieve from the hottest part of the day—the Museum of Islamic Art and the National Museum of Qatar are both easy to reach and full of engaging exhibitions. Later, head down to the waterfront of the Doha Corniche to board a dhow, a traditional boat used in Arabia, for a cruise around Doha’s coast until sunset.
Doha comes alive at night as visitors and locals emerge from their air-conditioning, and nowhere is better to soak up that atmosphere than Souq Waqif. Wander around its squares and markets, browsing for souvenirs, gold, jewelry, and more. Afterwards, sit down at one of the souq’s many restaurants to try some Qatari dishes, such as machboos—the national dish of Qatar made with chicken and rice.
Kick off your second day with one of the best things to do in Doha for first-timers—get out of Doha. Join a desert safari to venture into the country’s windswept dunes, not only to ride on camels and visit scenic viewpoints such as Khor Al Adaid, but also for the opportunity to try different adventure activities, including sandboarding and driving all-terrain vehicles.
Following a fun-filled morning, retire from the heat with the assortment of attractions around Doha’s Aspire Zone. Avoid the outdoor parks and sports facilities of this entertainment and recreation precinct, and instead enjoy the theme parks and shopping of the Villaggio Mall—best known for its indoor gondola canal rides, or the interactive exhibits of the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic & Sports Museum.
With its modern skyline, Doha’s cityscape is beautiful at sunset and illuminated at night. Head to MIA Park for its prime vantage point of the West Bay skyline from its East Mound viewpoint. Visit alone or with a professional photographer for a photo shoot to get quality photos of your Doha experience.
