How to Make the Most of Doha in 24 Hours – Experience the City’s Not-to-Be-Missed Highlights

The Qatari capital, Doha, will be an entrancing city to experience as it has so much to offer to visitors. Irrespective of whether you seek historical and cultural attractions, shopping opportunities or modern urban features, you will not be disappointed in this city. Whilst you could easily spend many days experiencing all that this destination has to offer, you could visit many of its highlights even if you have just 24 hours to explore the capital.

Visit the fish market and docks 

An excellent way to commence your day of adventure in the city is to enjoy a typical local breakfast at Halul Café, which is often patronized by workers as well as tourists. Here, you could choose from a variety of chapattis and other dishes followed by some much-loved karak tea. Near this café, you will find an interesting fish market where you can observe people buying fish, prawns, crabs and other kinds of seafood from the vendors. You may then walk to the nearby docks and view the fishermen repairing their nets. 

Tour the Museum of Islamic Art

Art lovers and general sightseers alike should take the opportunity to visit the splendid Museum of Islamic Art which may be regarded as a must-experience attraction in Doha. Even the building that houses this museum may be regarded as an attraction in its own right; inside it, you will encounter a marvellous collection of artworks from across the Islamic world. You would notice many outstanding exhibits here, including Ottoman armour for a stallion of war, a falcon encrusted with jewels, Iranian tiles and ceramics, wood inlays and more. 

Admire the city views 

After experiencing the above museum you may take a stroll through the adjacent park and view the meticulously maintained gardens. On one side you will see the picturesque Old Dhow Harbour with its quaint traditional sailing vessels. You could also take the opportunity to admire the views from the East and West Mound viewpoints. You may then take a stroll along the pleasant promenade known as the Corniche taking in the enchanting views across the bay. Short-stay apartments in Doha to consider from which you could easily visit the Corniche along with other key sites is Al Najada Doha Hotel Apartments by Oaks. 

Wander through Souq Waqif 

Undoubtedly, one of Doha’s most absorbing attractions is the remarkable Souq Waqif, a traditional marketplace that has functioned for more than a century. As you might expect, you will find a marvellous collection of exotic goods at this market, including spices, gold, carpets, sweets, antiques and much more. Falconry is a greatly esteemed part of the local culture and you could gain an insight into this pursuit by visiting the entrancing Falcon Souq which is also located within this bustling market. You will additionally come across various tea houses and cafes here, so it's easy to get a quick bite to eat or some refreshments while exploring.

Experience the Katara Cultural Centre 

Your next destination is the engrossing Katara Cultural Centre, a noteworthy precinct for the arts, which will undoubtedly draw the interest of the discerning culture lover. You will have the chance to view one of the public performances that are regularly staged here. Even if there is no performance during your visit, you could still explore the centre and admire the inspiring surroundings. Two of the site's most significant attractions are a beautifully decorated mosque and a couple of traditional pigeon towers, while there is a popular beach nearby as well. 

Diego Delso, Fuerte Al Koot, Doha, Catar, 2013-08-06, DD 07, CC BY-SA 3.0 

View Al Koot Fort and the Grand Mosque 

After experiencing the abovementioned cultural centre, you may return to the urban surroundings of Doha and admire the striking architecture of attractions like the well-known Al Koot Fort and the city’s Grand Mosque. You could visit this appealing mosque at times when prayers are not in progress. After a busy day experiencing the attractions of the Qatari capital, you could enjoy a satisfying meal at the well-reputed Bandar Aden Restaurant, going over your day's many adventures!