Highlights of Doha
Duration: 4 hours
Tour Code: DOH-001
Bridging the past and present, this superb excursion visits a bustling marketplace and the inspiring Museum of Islamic Arts, and passes by many of Doha's landmarks.
Depart from the pier for a brief drive to the Old Souq, which has evolved from a weekend market for Bedouin nomads into a more modern marketplace that still looks centuries old. Meandering through the maze of shops, you'll be mesmerized by the cacophony of sights, sounds and smells. The aroma of dried herbs wafts through the air. Vendors can be heard haggling over their wares, which include Arab clothing and jewelry. You may even come upon the quarter where falcons are sold, as falconry is a popular sport among Qataris. Following your guided tour of the souq, you'll have some free time to further explore on your own or make some purchases.
Continuing on, you'll drive along the seaside Corniche to the nearby Museum of Islamic Arts, a beautifully stark, geometrically shaped building that stands alone on an island in the bay. Designed by the famed architect I.M. Pei, the museum opened in 2008 with the intent of reflecting the vitality, complexity and diversity of Islamic art. As you'll see, the masterpieces inside span three continents and 13 centuries, all of them spectacular.
Your tour closes with a panoramic drive through Doha, taking in sights such as Qatar University, Doha Golf Club and the Pearl-Qatar, a series of manmade islands just off shore that are home to luxury residences, hotels, shops and restaurants. You'll also pass by the broadcast headquarters of Al Jazeera, before returning to the pier.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 2-hours of moderate walking/standing, plus any additional walking at the guests' discretion during free time. There are some stairs at the museum, but elevators are also available. The tour is available to wheelchair guests who have a collapsible wheelchair, are able to make their own way on and off the coach and have an able-bodied companion to assist them. Those with mobility concerns are cautioned to carefully evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. Light-weight cotton clothing that is conservative in nature out of respect for the local culture is requested. Sun cap; sunglasses; sun screen; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.