Top Holiday Destinations from Qatar in Under 5 Hours | ExpatWoman.com
 

Top Holiday Destinations from Qatar in Under 5 Hours

If you’re looking to get away but need a place nearby to Doha, here’s a list of some great short trips that you're bound to enjoy.

Posted on

3 May 2017

Last updated on 24 December 2019
Top Holiday Destinations from Qatar in Under 5 Hours

Are you starring at your screen daydreaming of your next vacation? If so, we’ve got some suggestions for you!

Sometimes. we desperately need a break but don’t necessarily have much time (or money) to go on a holiday.

That’s why having a short flight can be quite useful and they also tend to be less costly than longer ones. So here are our top trips you can do in less than 5 hours from Doha!

1. Amman, Jordan

Travel time: 2h45

There’s so much in Jordan that will leave you in awe. Petra, an ancient city surrounded by mountains, is only a three-hour bus ride away and it's a must-visit. It's an awe-inspiring city that's carved into the sandstone.

If you have more time to explore, other historical attractions include Wadi Mujib, dubbed as the Grand Canyon of the Middle East, the nature reserve Dana and plenty of castles and wetlands. You can also enjoy a swim in the Dead Sea!

2. Goa, India

Travel time: 3h40

Goa is the ultimate beach and diving destination. With silver sand beaches, fascinating rock formations and vibrant wildlife, you’re bound to fall in love with this place.

3. Colombo, Sri Lanka

Travel time: 4h55

Cheap, beautiful and has lots of activities! From jungles to beaches, there's something for everyone. You'll start your trip in Colombo, but most people head out of the capital to explore. You can access most of the country by driving, so you can still stay in one place and make the most out of the surroundings.

Don't miss out on The Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage and the soaring summit of Adam’s Peak.

4. Male, Maldives

Travel time: 4h40

Renowned for its stunning beaches and crystal blue waters, the Maldives is paradise on earth. But if you want to do some exploring as well, Male has a lot to offer, including Newport, the Old Friday Mosque, the palaces, the National Art Gallery and the Fish Market.

5. Baku, Azerbaijan

Travel time: 1h45

With over 7,000 heritage sites, Azerbaijan is perfect for discovering new things. You can enjoy ancient caves, music festivals, national parks and much more.

6. Athens, Greece

Travel time: 4h55

Both ancient and modern, Athens has a mix of history and edginess. With museums, lively cafes and al fresco dining, it’s hard not to have fun. And if you’re a foodie, you will be spoilt with delicious local dishes.

7. Istanbul, Turkey

Travel time: 4h35

As both a cultural and cosmopolitan centre, Istanbul is a great place to spend a few days. The Old City is an extremely unique place to visit. The Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace and the Haghia Sophia are staples of every first-time trip here.

If it’s not your first time, try to check out many of the country’s hidden gems, such as the Kursunlu Waterfalls in Antalya.

8. Larnaka, Cyprus

Travel time: 3h55

While you can enjoy amazing beaches here, there’s so much more that Cyprus has to offer. There is so much history and compelling culture to enjoy. Historic sites, Roman ruins and museums are only some of the best things to experience.

If you’re into water sports, there’s every conceivable one on offer, from scuba diving to windsurfing. If you’re a nature-lover, you can take in the pine-clad mountains, wide valleys and vineyards.

Of course, there’s always the option of visiting stunning GCC cities nearby, such as Dubai and Salalah.