Souq Waqif is a traditional market and a famous historical site in Qatar which is established in an ancient trading area. Although today the market is famous for shopping in Qatar, it was once used as a hub for the animal trade. Even today, the market is the same in terms of design and beauty which makes it so popular among travelers.

Souq Waqif is a shopper's paradise where you will find quality handicraft materials, Qatari art and accessories, traditional clothing, and more. As a fairly popular place to explore and shop, there are cafes that serve a large number of visitors daily. Souq Waqif has undergone a major transformation during the process, but still, it is preserving the essence and ambiance of a historical marketplace.

In the past, this trade market was the center of the exchange of goods, today it serves the purpose of being the best shopping destination in Qatar. A large portion of the market was burned down in a fire accident, and redevelopment work has been carried out to cover the damage and preserve its aesthetic significance.

Location: Souq Waqif, Doha, Qatar
Timings: 24/7
Entrance fees: Free

The unique shape, the Qatari architecture, and significant history have made Barzan Towers one of the famous historical sites in Qatar. Built by Sheikh Mohammed bin Jassim Al Thani in the 19th century, the tower was purpose-built to check out the activities around the area. The reason behind building the tower was to protect the region against the Ottoman invasion. It was also used to study the movement of the moon and keep a track of dates and times during the month of Ramadan. Under the vast Arabian sky, these towers stand as a spectacular works of architecture and reflect the artistic excellence prevailing during the era.

The Qatar towers had something new and different in the architectural structure of the Gulf. The architecture of the Barzan Towers was planned as T-shaped towers, including an external staircase in a rectangular shape. There are modern houses and improvised shacks to enhance and add more elements to its design. Rising to a height of 15 meters, the towers are the perfect place for you to admire the surrounding serenity. While the towers are considered a historical attraction in Qatar, they underwent several modifications when they were restored in 2003. Several air-conditioning units have been added to make them a preferable option for all.

Location: Mohammed Bin Jasim, Umm Salal
Timings: 2 pm to 7 pm
Entrance fees: Free

Located in Madinat Ash Shamal, the Al Zubarah Fort is a little ruined historical attraction that is preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site making it a famous historical site to visit in Qatar. Dating from the 17th-18th centuries, this is a desolate Fort of Al Zubarah that was destroyed once in 1811. From being the center of trade and a civilized town with residential sectors and industries, Al Zubarah became an isolated region standing nowhere near the human settlement.

Later in 1983, Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani ordered the construction of a fortress protecting the entire northwest coastal area and the coastal movement. After being the military post until 1986, it was again an abandoned fort in a crowded town.

Today the Al Zubarah Fort of Qatar is not only one of the most famous historical sites in Qatar but also a museum where the visitors can learn more about its history, architecture, and significance in the past. The fort is a close resemblance to the earlier techniques of the architecture that were typically in Arab and Gulf fortified construction. The design of the pointed sloped ceilings, the traditional roof architecture, the curving walls, the mixture of rounded and square angle towers, and the square ground plan were all a part of ancient Arabic architecture. The historical fort of Qatar hosts a small show that gives some more insight into the attraction and the city, down in the rooms on the bottom floor. Within the premises, there are even a few warehouses or shops that hold exhibitions and sell gifts and antiques.

Location: Madinat Ash Shamal Qatar
Timings: Monday to Sunday; 07:30 am - 05:00 pm
Entrance fees: Free

Nestled in a serene setting, Zekreet Fort is a historical destination in Qatar that will transport you from the middle of the 18th century to the ancient days. Safely tucked near the Dukhan region on Qatar's west coast, the Zekreet Fort appears to be the only remains of one of Qatar's oldest territories.

It is the architecture that makes this fort an ideal attraction for a tour of Qatar with its unusual design and outlook. It is said that the fort was completed in two phases, one without towers, as a square building, but then in the second construction phase, the fort was redesigned with four towers at each corner. But due to the unusual architecture of Zakreet Fort, the towers were left incomplete, and even today the remains of the 'madabes' are still there.

The rooms of the fort were to produce 'debis' - a traditional food based on dates. At the House of Sheik Ghanim bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani in Al-Wakra, you can visit a complete and well-preserved room that was used in the development of 'debis' during holiday tours in Qatar.

Location: Zakreet, west coast of Qatar
Timings: Open all-day 24/7
Entrance fees: Free

An old and isolated historical site in Qatar, the Film City is a Mystery village with amazing architecture. This tourist attraction is not like any ordinary city but was designed as a set to shoot an old Arabian series. After that, the city was abandoned, and today, it is considered an attraction for tourists. The architectural beauty of this place has made it so popular among foreign visitors.

Also known as the Ghost Town in Qatar, the city is situated in a serene and captivating landscape that is quite far from human influence. There are houses built among the flat lands and desert region with shattered vegetations and plateaus. Overlooking the serene golden desert and the Gulf, the Film City is a picturesque attraction to admire. There is no such historical significance, but being near Zekreet and far from any human settlement, it can be explored an as offbeat site and historical site in Qatar. Your visit to Film City can be as exciting and thrilling as it requires a bit of off-road driving.

Location: Zekreet peninsula, Qatar
Timings: Open all-day 24/7
Entrance fees: Free

Qatar boasts of a number of magnificent forts that are also an important part of their culture and past. Al Rakayat Fort is one of the most famous historical sites in Qatar where you can take in the beauty of ancient art and architecture. Although this 19th-century fort might not be as attractive and magnificent as other forts in Qatar, it is still famous for its past story. Located near the Ar Rakiyat Village, the fort was built to preserve the only source of fresh water from natural disasters. The name Ar Rakiyat means “Well”, which explains its purpose. There are no great folklores associated with its existence, but it is still a major highlight to explore.

The architecture of the fort is distinct and attracts tourists from far away lands. There are three rectangular towers and one cylindrical tower included in its design. Even the materials used for the construction were different, the upper part was made of mud and clay while the lower part was mud and limestone. The Al Rakayat Fort stands out as an architectural wonder, standing over an isolated land.

Location: Northern city in Qatar
Timings: 24/7
Entrance fees: Free

The Al Thaqab Fort is a spectacular historical attraction that belonged to 19th-century architecture in Qatar. The fort was built to preserve the water resource for the villagers and it even provided shelter for many in their time of need.

Thaqab means water kept in the valley after rain, and this Fort also served its purpose of preserving the water in times of scarcity. Villagers could get water year-round, and this guard fort was conserving the resources. There is a conflict regarding the origin of the Al Thaqab Fort as many say that it was built in the 10th century when the Thaqab village was still in existence. Some theories tell the story of this fort in the 17th or 18th century. Somehow, it is said to have come into existence during the 19th century.

The well is 35 feet deep, and the fort has a unique design that is awe-inspiring to see. The Ministry of Municipality and Agriculture has done some restoration work to preserve the existence of the Al Thaqab Fort.

Location: North Road, Qalaat al Thaqab, Qatar
Timings: Closed on Fridays
Entry fees: Free

The Al Wajbah Fort, located at a distance of 15km from the capital city of Qatar (Doha), is one of the magnificent historical sites in Qatar that you must definitely visit. The fort played a significant role in the battle of 1893 when the Qatari forces defeated the Ottoman army. Since then, Al Wajbah Fort has stood as a wonder and a significant attraction in Doha.

In addition to its historical significance and great achievement, the fort is known for its fascinating architecture, which makes it a famous work of art. There are four watchtowers that make it stand out from any ordinary architecture with its unusual yet fascinating beauty.

Al Wajbah Fort, as one of the oldest forts in the country, has witnessed all of the development and destruction of history. His Highness Hamad Abdullah Al Thani used to live in Al Wajbah Fort, and it was previously the residence for various sheiks throughout history. Not only will you catch a glimpse of this charm, but the history related to the fort has made it a mystical place.

Location: Western Doha, Qatar
Timings: 24/7
Entry fees: Free

One of the best museums to be built in Qatar, the Museum of Islamic Art is where visitors can witness the finest historical collections. Considered one of the best places to visit in Doha, the museum is set in the heart of Doha and is a structural wonder.

Designed by world-famous architect I.M. Pei, the museum is located on an island of its own and is covered with limestones which enhance its appearance to a great effect. Talking about its collection, the Museum of Islamic Art presents a vast collection that includes textiles, pottery, glassware, and so much more. Interestingly, the collection in the museum has been brought from countries such as Spain, Egypt, Iraq, India, and Central Asia.

With more than 15,000 manuscripts and rare texts on display, this is a museum that captures the imagination of visitors to a great extent. But hang on, do you know what else the Museum of Islamic Art has to offer? Well, the museum holds the Holy Quran from the Seventeenth Century which is a major attraction.

Location: Doha, Qatar
Timings:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9 am - 7 pm
• Friday: 1:30 pm - 7 pm

Entrance fees: Free

As a museum that carries great importance to the people of Qatar and which has gained considerable popularity over the past few years, the National Museum of Qatar is a popular attraction to visit in the country. Designed by Jean Nouvel, the design of the museum resembles a quartz desert rose and the vintage collection makes it one of the most historical sites in Qatar.

Speaking of its collection, one of the main attractions of the museum is the three-meter (10-foot) Pearl Carpet of Baroda, a beautiful masterpiece that has been hand-embroidered with a staggering 1.5 million pearls, sapphires, and diamonds. In fact, this is a site that shows how Qatar rose from its prehistoric times to become an urban metropolis. Besides, because the museum is located near the Doha Corniche, more and more tourists love coming here, especially during the evening. So, what is keeping you waiting? If you wish to know how Qatar became an urban metropolis, then the National Museum of Qatar is the place for you.

Location: Museum Park St, Doha, Qatar
Timings:

• Saturday to Thursday: 9 am to 7 pm
• Friday: 1:30 pm to 7 pm
  

Entrance fees: QAR 50

One of the best places to hang out with your friends, Souq Al Wakrah is another historical site worth a visit during your trip to Qatar. Built like an ancient marketplace and popular for its rustic vibe, Souq Al Wakrah is not just popular for shopping with your friends but also popular for a range of other things.

There are entertainment events held at the Souq which are popular among visitors while visitors can also come here for dining. There are many top-of-the-line restaurants in the area that are well-known for their traditional or authentic delicacies. From the best of cafés to fancy barbeque places serving delicious evening snacks, Souq Al Wakrah has you covered. The best part? This is a market where people usually visit for basic shopping. Although shoppers won't find any high-end brands here, what they will find here is a wide range of traditional things to buy. So, what are you waiting for? Souq Al Wakrah is a real treat, especially during the evenings in Qatar. Visit the market in the evening and feel the cool breeze blowing around the place.

Location: Al Wakrah Beach Area

Timings: Monday to Sunday: 7 am - 10:30 am

Entrance fees: Travelers are advised to confirm the entrance fees of the souq from the concerned local authorities

Located in the heart of Doha city, Al Koot Fort is a famous historical site in Qatar and was built by the Ottomans in 1880. First built as a police station, the fort can be found close to Souq Waqif, another renowned marketplace in Doha. Although the fort has been converted into a museum now, it has a considerable history that is interesting to look at. Al Koot is a great example of the change in a cultural and architectural style that the nation has overseen over the course of history.

Although the fort was abandoned by the Ottomans, it was also used as a prison in 1906, there are also suggestions that the fort was actually built by Sheikh Abdulla to protect the Souq Waqif from notorious thieves. Speaking about the look of Al Koot, the fort looks a lot like any fort in the desert and has a square structure. There is a rectangle and three circular towers in the corners of the fort which are white in color. Interestingly, the Al Koot Fort is considered a famous location for wedding photographs as well in Doha. Although visitors are currently not allowed to view the museum from the inside, it is still a popular place to visit in the Qatari capital. So, if you are visiting the famous Souq Waqif in Doha with your family and friends, take some time out and come explore the Al Koot Fort.

Location: Ukaz St, Doha, Qatar
Timings: Monday to Sunday: 8 am to 12 am
Entrance fees: Travelers are advised to confirm the entrance charges of Al Koot Fort from the concerned local authorities

A multi-dimensional construction in Qatar that has attracted attention over the years, Katara Cultural Village is one of the best places to visit in Qatar. Offering visitors plenty to see and do, the village is a popular cultural landmark that every visitor should consider exploring. Boasting its traditional architectural look, Katara Cultural Village has a number of attractions that attract travelers here. One can explore the amphitheater, opera house, art galleries, and even dine at the various restaurants that are present here. If you're searching for a place to enjoy Doha's nightlife, the Katara Cultural Village could be an option.

This is a place that does not disappoint. The amphitheater here looks a lot like a Greek theatre while there is also a lush green garden with 3,000 trees and meadows from different regions of the world that attracts a large number of travelers. The best part? If you're someone who is ready to enjoy some family time on the beach, then Katara Beach is also a place you can visit. This is the only public beach in Qatar that visitors can find in Doha.

But hang on, what about experiencing history at Katara Cultural Village? Well, the art galleries and museums in and around the area have you covered as far as the historical experience is concerned. So, if you are visiting Doha and want to explore some of the historical places in the city, visit Katara Cultural Village with your loved ones.

Location: Doha, Qatar

Timings: The Katara Cultural Village remains open for 24 hours. Travelers are advised to confirm the visiting hours from the concerned authorities

Entrance fees:

• QAR25 for anyone between 7 and 17 years old
• QAR50 for anyone 18 and over

As far as historical sites in Qatar, Al Zubarah needs no introduction. One of the most famous historical sites in Qatar, Al Zubarah is a fine example of a Gulf merchant town of the 18th and 19th centuries. The site can be found to the northwest of Doha, about 80 kilometers from the town. What was once a thriving fishing trade center is now a famous historical site that has attracted a large number of explorers and excavators over the years.

Standing today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Zubarah presents a unique sight to visitors and is the perfect location to learn about the historical prowess of the 18th and 19th-century fishing trade center.

Location: Northwest of Doha about 80 KM from the town

Timings: Travelers are advised to confirm the opening hours of Al Zubarah from the concerned authorities

Entrance Fees: Travelers are advised to confirm the entrance charges of Al Zubarah from the concerned authorities

Another archaeological site in the Northwest of Qatar, Murwab includes about 250 ruined houses, a fortress, and two historical mosques. What was once a prosperous village at one point has now turned into ruins. Historical explorers and excavators, however, find the site very interesting as they get to see some valuable ruins from history.

Nestled in the northwest of Qatar, this site can be found about 4 kilometers off the coastline and around 15 kilometers to the north of the nearest city, Dukhan. Over a period of time, excavators have discovered 6,948 potsherds at the site. Most of these potsherds date back to 805 - 885 AD and are valuable in every way.

One of the most notable features of the Murwab Archaeological Site is the Murwab fort. Built on the ruins of an old fort that was destroyed by fire, this is another historical attraction that can be seen here. So, If you want to explore the ruins from the 9th century Abbasid Dynasty, then the Murwab Archaeological Site must be one of the places you should check out.

Location: Northwest of Qatar
Timings: Travelers are advised to confirm the opening hours of Murwab Archaeological Site from the concerned authorities
Entrance fees: There is no known entrance fee for the Murwab Archaeological Site