Your ultimate city guide to Doha

Από MO Magazine

Οκτώβριος 1, 2022

Qatar’s capital city is filled with tantalising cuisine, adrenaline-fuelled excursions and a surprising number of green spaces. Discover the best of Doha with our handy city guide.

From a dream-like dhow cruise to the best spots to shop in the Souq Waqif, take a tour with our hand-picked selection of the best things to do and discover in Doha.

Step into the souks

For a complete sensory overload (but vital cultural experience) visiting Souq Waqif is an absolute must. Home to shops offering everything from spices and seasonal delicacies (such as fresh dates and nuts) to perfumes, ornate jewellery, clothes and craft objects, it can feel like stepping into another world – you might pass falcons and camels, or have your picture taken with mounted Heritage police officers in 1940s uniforms. Listen out for spontaneous live music performances from men playing the habbān, the Arabian equivalent of bagpipes.

Surf Doha's dunes

For an extra-special day in the desert, get out on the dunes. Enjoy next-level thrills by hopping in a 4x4 and embarking on some dune-bashing, an electrifying experience that sees the car climb steep sand walls and all but free fall down the opposite slope. Other equally heart-pumping activities are available too, from hiring quad bikes to sandboarding, the desert’s version of snowboarding.

After a day of sports in the sun, unwind with a cup of refreshing mint tea in a Bedouin tent. Take a leisurely trip back by camel, but make sure to skirt the coastline and relish an evening dip in the Arabian sea before heading home.

Doha's best restaurants

It’s fair to say that Mosaic is unmatched in Doha for its sheer savoury scope. It has nine different specialty open kitchens, offering a culinary journey inspired by the historic Silk Route. The Arabic Grill, Japanese Sushi & Sashimi and Tandoori Oven are standout, and offer panoramic views of Barahat Msheireb Square, the Corniche and West Bay while you eat.

If you’re not pushed for time, be sure to try out the more humble Sukar Pasha in the Katara Cultural Village. Here you can dine in a private tent on some of the finest Turkish food this side of Istanbul. We recommend the grilled meats, which are exceptional.

A dose of romance

There’s nothing quite like a stroll through the evening hubbub of city streets to set those feels a-fluttering. Couples looking for a dose of romance should head along the Doha Corniche, a seven-kilometre waterfront promenade that stretches alongside scenic Doha Bay.

Take in as much or as little as you like, but be sure to catch a traditional dhow boat for a cruise towards the West Bay, which offers an unsurpassed view of the stunning Doha skyline. Dock at Belhambar, an authentic Qatari restaurant in West Bay that sits right on the water and proffers an array of delectable mezze and drinks. At the hotel, stop by The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Doha where a swim, steam, and indulging treatment or two await.

Unexpected green spaces

Al Bidda Park next to the National Theatre (shows here are well worth the trip) is a popular spot for all generations. Kids love the incredible playground and skaters, cyclists and dog owners find endless entertainment in its green vistas. Tennis courts and football pitches are available for hire, and an amphitheatre hosts cinema screenings and musical performances throughout the year.

Hiding behind Villaggio Mall is Aspire Park, one of the largest green spaces in the Gulf nations. Replete with rivers, rare trees, grand fountains, a lake and a huge running track, it’s a fabulous location to escape the bustle of the city and to get back to nature.

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