Two Holidays In One: How To Spend A Stopover in Qatar

Turn one holiday into two by flying with Qatar Airways and stopping in its glittering capital city, Doha. From unique architecture and cultural sites to world-class shopping spots, this Middle Eastern destination is bursting with incredible attractions to explore. Here’s our guide to planning an exciting 48-hour stopover in Qatar on your way to your favourite destination.

First stop, Katara Cultural Village. Spend some time admiring the striking design of Katara Mosque, designed by well-known Turkish architect, Zainab Fadil Oglu. Its intricate Turkish and Persian-inspired mosaic work sets it apart from surrounding landmarks and many consider it to be one of the most beautiful mosques in Qatar. If unique architecture is up your street, you’ll also want to explore the Amphitheatre. This immense structure opened in 2011 and covers an impressive 3,275 square metres. 

Looking for something a little more luxurious? Visit 21 High Street, a vibrant outdoor shopping destination where you can browse stores like Doha’s Galeries Lafayette or enjoy a bite to eat at one of the many incredible dining spots.  

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Spend an afternoon in Villaggio Mall and you’ll forget that you’re in Qatar. The mall is home to luxury brands like Dior, Gucci and Cartier, but don’t let that fool you into thinking this isn’t a family attraction.  

Kids (both big and small) will love the Gondolania theme park within the mall, equipped with a go-kart track, laser tag, bowling and an Olympic-sized ice rink. Not to mention a Venetian-inspired canal, complete with gondola rides, making visitors feel as though they’ve been transported to Italy!

We begin the second day of your stopover with the Museum of Islamic Art. Home to one of the largest collections of Islamic art in the world, this museum is a must-visit for travellers looking to experience culture. From textiles and ceramics to metalwork and manuscripts, the museum’s collection spans a staggering 1,400 years of Islamic art history. 

All that art making you peckish? Pack a picnic and head to the Museum of Islamic Art Park. It’s the perfect spot to soak up some sun or for the kids to run around.

You can’t visit Qatar without spending some time exploring Souq Waqif, the city’s most famous and historic street market. From oils and perfumes to Arabian spices and antique artifacts, there’s no better place for souvenir shopping.

No trip to Souq Waqif would be complete without sampling some of the delicious traditional Qatari food on offer. From the national dish Machboos (similar to Biryani – think rice, grilled protein and plenty of spices!) and Khubs rgag (flatbread) to Balaleet (a unique combo of sweet and spicy vermicelli noodles topped with a thin omelette), you certainly won’t go hungry.

The final stop on your Qatar stopover is an afternoon stroll along Doha Corniche, the city’s beautiful waterfront. Take in views of Doha’s iconic city skyline as you explore the curving 7km stretch of promenade. Be sure to make a stop at the famous Pearl Monument while you’re there -the giant pearl fountain marks the significance of the pearl industry in Qatar’s history.

After two exciting days exploring Qatar, it’s time to bid farewell to this incredible city. But the good news is, your holiday is only just beginning and you’re now ready to journey on to the next leg of your trip!

Feeling inspired? Check out Qatar fares or see our Deals page for the latest offers!