Mandarin Oriental, Doha

Mandarin Oriental, Doha is a five-star hotel in the regenerated Msheireb Downtown district, right in the old heart of the city. The hotel describes itself as an intimate and stylish urban retreat, and its location is its biggest strength: Souq Waqif, the Msheireb Museums and the Corniche are all within easy reach on foot or by a short taxi ride. Hamad International Airport is around 20 to 25 minutes away by car.

Dining is a major draw, with nine restaurants, bars and cafés. Liang serves Chinese cuisine and is listed in the Michelin Guide, and the line-up also includes IZU, Mosaic, the Ambar bar, The Mandarin Cake Shop, Qaqaw, a gelato counter and Baraha Lounge. Up on the roof, Aqua combines the swimming pool with a lounge, and is one of the most pleasant places in central Doha to spend a late afternoon when the heat eases.

The spa offers a full treatment menu and suite experiences, and there is a spa shop. The hotel provides accessible rooms, lifts, wheelchair-accessible routes and designated parking, and 24-hour valet parking is available. Reservations can be made through the hotel website or the reservations team by email or phone.

Mandarin Oriental suits couples, culture-focused travellers and business visitors who want a high-end hotel in the historic centre rather than the towers of West Bay. It is also a good choice for food lovers who want several strong restaurants under one roof. Families will appreciate the central location, although there is no beach, so anyone planning a beach holiday may prefer a resort in West Bay or on an island.

Hotel rates in Doha are usually highest in the cooler months from November to March and around major sporting and cultural events, so book early for those dates. Summer stays are often better value, and a rooftop pool makes the heat easier to manage.

Msheireb station, served by the Doha Metro's Red, Green and Gold lines, is close by, so getting to Education City, West Bay or Lusail is straightforward without a car. For first-time visitors who want to walk to the souq in the evening and spend days in the museums, this is one of the best-placed luxury hotels in the city.