Are you looking for what to do in Qatar? This country in the Arabian peninsula is full of unique, inspiring and fun sites to explore. The summer can be pretty hot and humid, but if you're visiting in the winter, here are the best outdoor places to visit in Qatar. From bustling open air markets to relaxing boat roads, we'll cover it all!
1. Souq Waqif
The bustling market in Doha called Souq Waqif is filled to the brim with everything you could ever dream of buying. They have spices, custom-made clothes, antiques, puppies, dishes, perfume, jewelry, fishing gear... you name it! This was one of my favorite places to visit in Qatar because the buildings were designed to look like they're a hundred years old. And locals shop here too, so it doesn't feel too touristy.
You can also visit the Gold Souq, the Falcon Souq, the art museum or any one of the numerous restaurants and cafes.
2. Take a Boat Ride on a Traditional Dhow
Qatar's waterways are filled with beautiful traditional wooden boats called dhows. If you're looking to get out on the turquoise water, take a ride on one! Some boat tours even include a traditional Arabic dinner. And if you take a dhow ride at night, you can marvel at the city's sparkling skyline from the calm waters.
3. Katara
Katara Cultural Village is a beautiful place to walk around. You can meander along the stone streets and pop into a museum, or take center stage on the Greek-inspired amphitheater. Take a walk down to the beach, go on an art walk, or visit the massive food truck village. There's even a stretch of road that is lined with gigantic books! Along with numerous cafes and restaurants, the mosques are examples exquisite architecture and are must-sees on this list of outdoor places to visit in Qatar.
4. Aspire Park
At around 220 acres, Aspire Park has plenty of space to play, run around and spread out for an outdoor picnic. Aspire Tower is a skyscraper hotel and it lights up at night for a mesmerizing show. There are paddle boats you can rent and take out on the lake. Or stay fit at the outdoor exercise facility. This is a great place to spend quality time with friends and family outdoors in Doha.
5. The Pearl
The Pearl is truly one of the best outdoor places to visit in Qatar. In fact, you could stay here and never even need to leave The Pearl! There are so many restaurants, cafes, shops, and entertainment venues to explore. This man-made island is great for a romantic moon-lit walk on the waterfront. Or peruse around the Qanat Quartier during the day to feel like you're walking in Venice!
6. Walk Along a Corniche
Both Qatar's main city of Doha and its neighboring city of Al Khor have beautiful corniches. These waterfront walkways are a great way to pass the time outdoors. A warm breeze might greet you as you watch the dhow boats float by in Doha. Or listen to the bubbling laughter of kids as they play in the sand at the corniche in Al Khor. This is also one of the most picturesque places to watch sunset in this list of the best outdoor places to visit in Qatar.
7. Outdoor Parks
Qatar has a number of well-maintained outdoor parks besides just Aspire Park. Katara Hills immerses you in an oasis of greenery - you'll forget that you're in the middle of a desert! Bubbling streams and clear water ponds set the stage for an outdoor picnic or leisurely stroll.
You can check out more of Qatar's outdoor public parks here.
Did I miss any of the best outdoor places to visit in Qatar? Let me know! Are you planning a trip to Qatar soon? We visited in May 2022, so the temperature was pretty warm. Now that the World Cup 2022 is in full swing, the streets won't look quite as empty. Safe travels!!
If you visit Qatar when it's hot outdoors, plan some fun indoor places to visit in Doha. And if you're looking for where to eat, check out the 5 best restaurants in Qatar.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check all our travel posts here!
Yum-number1
It's a great time to visit, especially with the World Cup happening there!
Humbly Homemade
⚽🥅 Yes! Now it's even BETTER with less crowds!