Day 1: Arrival in Kuwait City & Exploring the Corniche
Start your trip in Kuwait City, the country’s vibrant capital. When you land, grab a taxi or an Uber, and head to your hotel. I recommend staying in the Salmiya district—it’s close to many restaurants, shops, and seafront views.
Once you’ve settled in, get out to explore the Kuwait Corniche. This scenic walkway stretches along the coast, offering great views of the Persian Gulf. You can grab a coffee or some traditional Arabic snacks at one of the many cafes along the way.
As you stroll, make your way to the Kuwait Towers, the iconic structures that have become symbols of the city. These towers are open to the public, and it’s worth heading up to the observation deck for some panoramic views of the city and the surrounding desert.
Finish the day by heading to Souq Sharq. It’s a modern mall, but it also has a souk-like setting where you can try out some local and international food options.
Get a good night’s sleep since there’s lots to see this week.
Day 2: Kuwait’s Rich History & Culture
Today, dive into the cultural side of Kuwait City. Your first stop should be the Tareq Rajab Museum. It houses a fascinating collection of Islamic and Arabic artifacts, including pottery, clothing, and ancient manuscripts. You can spend 1-2 hours here.
Afterward, head over to the Grand Mosque. It’s Kuwait’s largest mosque and a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. If you’re not Muslim, you can still join a guided tour inside that will give you insights into Islamic architecture and practices.
For lunch, stop by the Mubarakiyah Souk. This traditional market is one of the oldest places in the city. Grab a plate of machboos, Kuwait’s national dish, which is a fragrant rice meal often served with chicken or lamb. You’ll find restaurants mixing up their own twists on this classic dish here.
Spend the afternoon wandering around the souk. You can shop for spices, perfumes, and handicrafts. Don’t forget to haggle a bit—it’s all part of the experience!
Day 3: Failaka Island
Today, take a day trip to Failaka Island, located about 20 kilometers off the coast. You’ll need to take a ferry, so get an early start since the first one leaves around 9 AM. Check your hotel for ferry timings as they can vary seasonally.
Failaka Island holds some of the most fascinating historical ruins in Kuwait. The island was once part of ancient Mesopotamian civilization, and you can explore the remnants of temples and settlements. Bring comfortable shoes because you’ll want to wander around and take it all in.
You can also visit a couple of the old military posts that were abandoned after the Gulf War. These give you an eerie sense of Kuwait’s modern history.
Before heading back on the ferry, chill by the beach for a bit. The water is crystal clear, and it’s a peaceful way to unwind before returning to Kuwait City.
Day 4: Modern Kuwait City
Today is for experiencing modern Kuwait. Start your day by heading to the Al Hamra Tower and Luxury Center. It’s one of the tallest towers in the country and houses upscale shopping, restaurants, and a cinema. Even if you’re not planning to shop, it’s worth visiting for the views and the architectural design of the tower.
At lunchtime, try a meal at Dikakeen or Sadu House Cafe. Both places serve up a nice mix of modern and traditional Kuwaiti food.
In the afternoon, check out the Scientific Center, which is home to one of the largest aquariums in the Middle East. They also have an IMAX theater and exhibits about marine life and the ecosystem of the Arabian Gulf.
End your day by heading to the Avenues Mall. This gigantic shopping complex offers every store you can think of. Even if you’re not big on shopping, it’s a fun place to explore, unwind, or grab a coffee.
Day 5: Al Jahra & The Red Palace
Take a short road trip to Al Jahra today, only about 40 minutes away from Kuwait City. It’s a nice way to escape Kuwait’s urban center and see more of the country’s natural landscape.
Your main stop should be the Red Palace, which has historical significance to Kuwait. Built in the late 19th century, it’s been the site of historical battles. You can walk around and get a sense of traditional mud-brick architecture.
After the palace, stop by the Al Jahra Nature Reserve for a quiet escape into nature. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some migratory birds during your visit.
End your day by returning to Kuwait City and enjoying dinner at Marzouq Al Muttawa Street in Salmiya. This street is packed with dining options, offering everything from Kuwaiti to international cuisine.
Day 6: The Desert Adventure
You can’t visit Kuwait without experiencing its deserts. Today, book a guided tour for some desert fun. There are a number of companies that offer activities like dune bashing, camel rides, and even camping under the stars if that’s your thing.
One great option is to go out to the Mutla Ridge area, which offers some stunning desert scenery and is popular for driving and off-roading.
If you’ve got the time, make it a half-day trip so you come back by sunset; the sight of the desert sky at dusk is unforgettable.
Back in the city, head to Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre, if you’re up for some nighttime culture. Shows, exhibitions, and concerts are regularly held here. Just check their schedule in advance.
Day 7: Souvenirs & Departure
It’s your final day in Kuwait, and you’ll want to do some last-minute exploration before heading to the airport.
Spend your morning shopping for souvenirs at the Sadu House. This place is famous for its traditional Bedouin weaving. You can pick up some unique pieces made by local artisans as a lasting memory of your trip.
If you want more options, head to The Old Souk in Kuwait City. They have great choices for spices, jewelry, and carpets.
Before heading to the airport, grab lunch at Mais Alghanim. This restaurant offers a delicious farewell to Kuwait with its wide range of Middle Eastern dishes.
Afterward, it’s time to head to the airport. Depending on your flight time, call a taxi or Uber to get you there comfortably.
Summary
In seven days, you’ve covered Kuwait’s best, from its unique culture and heritage to its modern attractions. You’ve explored everything from bustling souks to quiet desert landscapes. This itinerary should give you a well-rounded glimpse of what this fascinating country has to offer. Safe travels!
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