Day 1: Arrival in Kuwait City & Exploring Souq Al-Mubarakiya
You’ll likely arrive in Kuwait City with a few hours to spare, especially if you’ve taken a morning flight. Start your journey by checking in at your hotel to drop off your bags and freshen up.
For your first stop, head to Souq Al-Mubarakiya, the city’s oldest market. It’s a good introduction to Kuwaiti culture. The market is bustling but not overwhelming; there’s a bit of everything, from spices to perfumes and street food. I recommend trying some traditional Kuwaiti snacks like falafel or shawarma.
Take your time wandering through the various sections of the market. Don’t forget to buy a small souvenir, such as local dates or handmade crafts, to take home with you.
In the evening, walk to the Kuwait Towers nearby if you still have energy. Watch the sunset from this iconic structure and take a few pictures. Views over the city and Persian Gulf are beautiful, and it’s a relaxing way to finish your first day.
Day 2: Kuwait City Historical & Cultural Tour
Start your day with a visit to the Grand Mosque. This is one of the largest mosques in Kuwait, known for its beautiful architecture and detailed designs. Tour guides are available, and they’ll give you a great cultural insight into the country’s heritage.
Afterward, walk to the nearby Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre. It’s a mix of art, theatre, and music—what makes it stand out is the stunning modern architecture surrounded by water features. A quick stroll outside should be enough to capture its essence.
Next, head to the Tareq Rajab Museum in the Shamiya district for a glimpse into Kuwait’s art collection, manuscripts, and Islamic calligraphy. It’s quieter than the larger museums but packed with fascinating artifacts.
For lunch, grab something quick at one of the nearby cafes before settling into Sadu House. Here, you’ll learn about traditional Bedouin weaving and textiles. It’s a peaceful place with video guides walking you through the nation’s heritage of weaving practices.
By evening, cool down with a drink along the waterfront at Marina Crescent. It’s got trendy cafes right on the marina and a relaxed vibe—perfect after a day of sightseeing.
Day 3: Failaka Island Day Trip
Day three is reserved for a day trip to Failaka Island. Catch a morning ferry from Marina Crescent over to the island. The ferry ride takes about an hour, making it a relaxing way to start the day.
Failaka Island is a must-see for history lovers. The old ruins, dating back to the Bronze Age, give you a sense of just how ancient this land is. Walk through the Iraqi war ruins too to learn more about Kuwait’s more recent past.
Don’t miss visiting the small museum on the island, which gives more context to the archaeological findings and daily life in Kuwait through the centuries. Pack some snacks because places to eat here can be limited, but many tours provide picnic lunches.
In the afternoon, hop on an all-terrain jeep to explore the natural landscape across the island—with wide open spaces, sandy beaches, and old military outposts dotting the coastline. The remote peace and panoramic views are worth every minute.
Take the ferry back to the mainland in time for a chilled-out dinner at one of the many spots along the promenade.
Day 4: Modern Kuwait & Al Shaheed Park
Start your morning at the Liberation Tower. While it’s not always open for visitors, you can get great photos from the outside of this landmark which stands for Kuwait’s liberation from Iraq.
From there, head over to the Avenues Mall. This may seem like just another shopping mall, but it’s one of the largest in the Middle East and offers more than just retail therapy. Grab some coffee or walk through its themed sections that bear a striking resemblance to French boulevards or outdoor Mediterranean markets.
Lunch can be at one of the many international restaurants in the mall. Afterward, head out for an afternoon in Al Shaheed Park, located centrally in Kuwait City. This park is massive and gorgeous, with walking trails, botanical gardens, and fountains. It’s a great place to stretch your legs after being on the go the past couple of days.
Later, stop by the Kuwait National Museum if you’re interested in more history or the adjacent Planetarium for a quick space-themed show. If museums aren’t your vibe in the afternoon after a walk, the park offers restful spots to just chill out.
Wrap up the day with a rooftop dinner and enjoy the city’s night view. There are plenty of rooftop restaurants with great seafood options in Salmiya or Kuwait City, depending on your mood.
Day 5: Outdoor Exploration & Departure
For your last day, spend time in nature. Drive out to the Al-Khiran Resort, about an hour south of Kuwait City. Known for its beautiful beach and peaceful marina, this place lets you soak in a relaxing beach experience far from the city’s hustle.
You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or even go jet skiing if you’re feeling adventurous. If you want a quieter day, just enjoy the clear water and warm sand at the beach.
Have lunch at one of the marina cafés before heading back to Kuwait City. Depending on your departure time, you might have an hour or two left to explore a bit more.
If you still feel up for sightseeing, stop by the Kuwait Scientific Center on your way back. The center features an aquarium and an IMAX theatre, making it a fun, relaxing end to your trip.
Finally, head to the airport for your departure. You’ve seen a solid chunk of Kuwait, mixing culture, history, and nature, without feeling too rushed.
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