Super Seven
Doha Corniche
Given the size of the country, it's logical to use the capital of Doha as you're base. It's a great city to stroll around (weather dependent) and immerse yourself in the culture. A good start point is a walk along the corniche where you can admire the skyline of the city and the hundreds of wooden dhow boats lining the waterfront. If there's one mosque worth visiting, then Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque is an architectural delight. Follow the corniche in the direction of The National Museum and you'll also pass by The Pearl Monument.
Museum of Islamic Art
The Museum of Islamic Art is located directly on the waterfront of the corniche and is an architecture gem, both inside and out. The displays are minimalist style, across multiple floors, and spans over 1,400 years. I honestly don't know if I took more photos of the architecture or the art itself. If you visit early eve, you can also get a nice view of the skyline and the city lights turn on. The entry fee is 50 QAR ($15 USD), there's free cloakroom storage for your belongings, and a great coffee shop on the ground floor offering a water view.
World Cup 2022 Stadiums
Perhaps more for football fans, but since being the host nation of the World Cup in 2022, the 8 stadiums are still in tact and can all be visited via car in 2-3 hours. Interestingly, there's a solar panel farm that provides power to every stadium, making them fully sustainable. Each stadium is very unique and architecturally pleasing, but my favourite was definitely Stadium 974, which is made from 974 shipping containers. Arbait Stadium is inspired by a Bedouin Tent, which has been commonly used by nomadic people across the Middle East for centuries. Al Janoub Stadium has a design based on traditional fishing and pearl diving boats, but it looks more like a UFO in my opinion.
Qatar National Library
Perhaps unusual to think of a library as a tourist attraction, but Qatar National Library is another architectural gem on offer. The library is free to enter and has a modernist sleek look inside, whereas the outside is designed by Rem Koolhaas and resembles two pieces of paper that are pulled apart and folded diagonally at the corners. The venue boasts over 1 million books, innovative stations, and a large workspace area. Photography lovers will fully appreciate the visit here. As a side note, there's an interesting monument on adjacent street called The Miraculous Journey of Life.
Msheireb Downtown District
The newest district in town is Msheireb, which is labelled as "a smart and sustainable district in a thriving urban haven". There's over 100 buildings in the district with many restaurants and coffee shops, so it's a great place to come for a bite to eat. There's a tram running through the district, which gives a European vibe, combined with the traditional Qatari design surrounding it. The district is also home to a handful of smaller unique museums, such as Bin Jelmood House, which is to raise awareness and play a pivotal role in the global abolition of human exploitation.
Souq Waqif
Built on the site of Doha's century old trading market is Souq Waqif, which is definitely worth a visit. Even the contrast is unique with its mud daubed buildings and market, combined with the Doha skyline backdrop. There's plenty of traditional art and craft shops here, as well as the spice market offering traditional dates and honey. Photographers will enjoy the many locals walking down the alleys to their local stores carrying everything from carpet rolls to wheelbarrows. I would recommend visiting in the evening, as there's also plenty of restaurants within easy reach.
Shadows Travelling on the Day of the Sea
A very unique highlight of my trip involved a 100km drive north of Doha to an art istallation called "Shadows Travelling on the Day of the Seas". This is the work of Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson, who has international recognition. The installation is big, so you'll see it as you're driving towards it, but definitely park up and get up close on foot to fully appreciate. The logic of the art is an interesting one... When looking up, the ceilings fitted with large mirrors reflect the sandy ground below. The artist wants viewers to realize that when they look up, they actually look back down. It is an invitation for travelers to contemplate their connection to the ground.
Note - Al Zubara Fort is a 4km drive along the same main road, so it's easy to combine the two.
Accommodation Advice
Doha definitely wasn't the cheapest in terms of accommodation for a centrally located hotel, but I decided on Movenpick Downtown. I rarely use chain hotels, but the location was good, they offered the best pricing for a mid-range hotel, and the free parking was an added bonus. Rooms were spacious, WiFi connection was good, basic breakfast included, and a handful of tourist spots within walking distance.
Food Factor
My food recommendation will be based on somewhere to grab a quick bite, and that place will be Rusk in Msheireb Downtown. It's labelled as an "Artisanal Bakery" and also has a great breakfast menu. Plenty of western options available, great selection of cakes, and outdoor seating. If you're looking for something more traditional, then try Saasna Restaurant, which is also in Msheireb Downtown. They have plenty of Qatari dishes with a modern twist.
Good Guide
You definitely don't need a guide when exploring Qatar, but I would recommend car rental. Doha Airport has options with all the mainstream providers and they're all located in the same car rental centre. I chose to book with Hertz, as they were best on price for the dates of my trip. Additionally, their pricing for a large SUV vehicle was the same price for a compact car with rival companies.
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