Souq Waqif Through the Eyes of Locals | Walking Tour | Doha City
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Your tour guide will start your tour from Falcon Souq, walking you through the Arabian horses and camels, then to the Rayan Theater, the textiles market, the antiques market, the main walking street of the souq, along with a visit to Gold Souq and Pets souq.
Browse, shop, window shop or learn all about the souqs and the tradition embedded in them.
Available options
Souq Waqif Tour (3 hours)
What's included
Professional guide
Bottled water
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Begin your tour at the dazzling Gold Souq, where you can marvel at intricate jewelry and ornate designs. The vibrant market offers everything from delicate bracelets to elaborate necklaces, perfect for both shopping and simply admiring the craftsmanship.
2
Next, head to the Falcon Souq. Here, you can observe these majestic birds up close, learn about their significance in Qatari tradition, and even visit the shops that sell falconry gear.
3
Stop 3
A short stroll from the Falcon Souq will bring you to the Camel Pen and Emery Stable for Horses. This area offers a unique glimpse into Qatar's equestrian culture, with the chance to see camels and horses that play a vital role in local traditions.
4
Stop 4
As you continue through Souq Waqif, the Textile Souq, Spice and Pearl Shops beckon with their vibrant displays. Browse through colorful fabrics, traditional garments, different traditional spices, and lustrous pearls that echo Qatar’s seafaring past.
5
Step into the Souq Waqif Art Centre for a taste of local creativity. This gallery showcases traditional and contemporary Qatari art, making it a cultural highlight of your tour. It’s a peaceful spot to appreciate the artistic heritage of the region.
6
Stop 6
No visit to Souq Waqif is complete without sampling some of the local street food. In the Central Courtyard, you’ll find a variety of stalls offering everything from savory shawarmas to sweet treats like baklava. It’s the ideal spot for a quick, delicious break.
7
Stop 7
Conclude your tour with a visit to Parisa Persian Restaurant. This lavishly decorated eatery is known for its authentic Persian cuisine and opulent ambiance. You can even enjoy a delightful meal as you soak in the stunning mosaic work and mirrored walls—a truly memorable way to wrap up your Souq Waqif experience.
What's not included
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
PT
EN
IT
PL
FR
NL
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.7
7 reviews
5★
5
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
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
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for this tour.
Important notes
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for this 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).
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
