Doha: Combo Traditional Souqs Tour - Souq Waqif & Souq Al Wakra

Doha , Qatar

Doha: Combo Traditional Souqs Tour - Souq Waqif & Souq Al Wakra

Active

(2 reviews)

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Immerse yourself in authentic Qatari culture on this 5-hour guided tour exploring two of Qatar’s most iconic traditional markets: Souq Waqif and Souq Al Wakra. Begin at Souq Waqif in central Doha, famous for its vibrant alleyways filled with spices, textiles, handicrafts, and traditional souvenirs. Enjoy Arabic coffee, watch artisans at work, and learn local customs with help from your expert guide. Then travel in comfort to the coastal Souq Al Wakra, a restored heritage market by the sea offering scenic views, traditional architecture, and insights into Qatar’s maritime and pearling history. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, this tour is ideal for culture lovers and curious travelers seeking a local experience beyond modern shopping malls. Your guide will assist with translation, cultural insights, and bargaining tips to ensure a memorable and meaningful visit to both historic souqs.

Available options

Tour No Meal

Standard Tour No Meal<br/>Pickup included

Tour with Meal

Tour With Meal: Tour With Meal (set menu meal at a local restaurant)<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Free Exploration Time at Souq Al Wakra and Souq Waqif.

Professional Guide and private, air-conditioned transportation with pickup and drop-off.

Complimentary Water & Soft Drinks

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your professional tour guide will personally pick you up in an air-conditioned car from Doha airport, your hotel, a specified address, or a port.

Explore the charm of Souq Al Wakra in a 1.5-hour tour. Wander through its traditional alleys, visit local shops and cafes, and soak in the coastal atmosphere with scenic views of the beach. A perfect blend of culture and relaxation..

Stop 3

Enjoy a smooth transfer from Souq Al Wakra to the vibrant Souq Waqif in central Doha.

Stop 4

Dive into the lively atmosphere of Souq Waqif, known for its traditional architecture and bustling energy. Explore shops offering spices, fabrics, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Enjoy local culture through street performances and displays. The visit is topped off with a set menu featuring an authentic Qatari meal, offering a true taste of Qatar’s culinary heritage.

Stop 5

After the tour, we will provide a drop-off service to your airport, hotel, specified address, or port.

What's not included

Personal Expenses: Shopping, optional activities, and extra food or drinks.

Comprehensive Travel Insurance.

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN UR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Booking Confirmation:
Once your booking is complete, one of our guides will text you the night before your tour or, if the booking is made on the same day, at least 7 hours before the tour to confirm the details.

For last-minute bookings made less than 6 hours before the tour, it is mandatory to contact our guide leader, Amir, directly at +97455597740 to ensure your participation in the tour.

About Doha

Doha, the capital of Qatar, is a vibrant city where modern skyscrapers and traditional souqs coexist. Known for its futuristic architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning desert landscapes, Doha offers a unique blend of old and new.

Top Attractions

The Museum of Islamic Art

This stunning museum houses a vast collection of Islamic art from various periods and regions, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Islamic world.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Souq Waqif

A traditional Qatari market with a labyrinth of alleys filled with shops selling everything from spices and textiles to handicrafts and souvenirs.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

The Pearl-Qatar

A man-made island known for its luxury residences, high-end shopping, and fine dining, offering a glimpse into modern Qatari lifestyle.

Architecture/Entertainment Half a day Free to explore, prices vary for shopping and dining

Aspire Park

A large, beautiful park with lush greenery, walking paths, and a lake, perfect for picnics, jogging, and relaxation.

Nature/Recreation 1-2 hours Free

Katara Cultural Village

A cultural hub featuring art galleries, theaters, and open-air amphitheaters, hosting various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free to enter, prices vary for events and activities

Must-Try Local Dishes

Machbous

A fragrant spiced rice dish cooked with meat (usually chicken, lamb, or fish) and served with vegetables and raisins.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made halal or haram depending on the type of meat used.

Harees

A porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a smooth consistency.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made halal or haram depending on the type of meat used.

Luqaimat

Sweet dumplings made from a batter of flour, yeast, and cardamom, deep-fried and drizzled with date syrup or honey.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains gluten.

Kahwa

A traditional Qatari coffee made with cardamom and saffron, often served with dates.

Drink Caffeinated, contains cardamom and saffron.

Popular Activities

Dune bashing in the desert Camel riding Sandboarding Kayaking in the Inland Sea Relaxing on the beach Spa and wellness treatments Picnicking in the park Yoga and meditation

Best Time to Visit

November to March

This is the best time to visit Doha, with comfortable temperatures and various cultural events and festivals taking place.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Qatari Riyal (QAR)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Doha is generally considered very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night
• Avoid isolated areas and unlit streets

Getting there

By air

Hamad International Airport • 15 km from city center

By bus

Al Ghanim Bus Station, Al Riffa Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Modern, efficient, and air-conditioned, the metro is a convenient way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Karwa, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

West Bay Old Doha The Pearl-Qatar Aspire Zone Al Waab

Day trips

Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid)

80 km from Doha • Full day

A unique natural phenomenon where the sea encroaches into the desert, creating a stunning landscape of sand dunes and turquoise waters.

Zubarah

100 km from Doha • Half day to full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the ruins of an 18th-century coastal town, offering a glimpse into Qatar's rich history.

Al Khor

50 km from Doha • Half day to full day

A coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and the Al Khor Island, which is a popular spot for birdwatching.

Festivals

Qatar National Day • December 18 Doha Tribeca Film Festival • November (dates vary) Qatar International Food Festival • March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like the Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Use the metro and public transportation to get around the city, as traffic can be heavy and parking can be challenging.
Try traditional Qatari dishes like machbous and luqaimat for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, from the modern and upscale West Bay to the historic and cultural Old Doha.
Take advantage of the city's rich coffee culture by visiting local cafes and trying traditional Qatari coffee (kahwa).