Book a flight to Kuwait with Qatar Airways

No trip to Kuwait would be complete without a boat trip to Failaka IslandYou can get there by regular ferry and the island's Greek temple and archaeological sites await you. Alternatively, head for the city’s outskirts and Kazmah Desert Cliffs, where you can enjoy stunning views of the bay area and the Arabian Gulf. It can get busy at weekends, as Kuwaitis head here for uphill jeep challenges.

In Kuwait City, the main attraction is Kuwait Towers. Opened in 1979, these three imposing spires include a double-deck viewing sphere with a gently revolving platform on the upper floor, offering an ever-changing panorama. There is also a separate dining sphere, with two restaurants and a lounge.

A guided tour of the Grand Mosque is a great way to spend an afternoon, or you could explore the city's many museums. The War Museum and National Museum delve into the country's history from subtly different angles.

Everyday Kuwaiti life is exceptionally laid back, particularly during the hot summer months. Why not cool off on a boat trip and enjoy some scuba-diving or snorkelling? Or you could always head for one of the public beaches or resorts. Many of Kuwait's marine clubs have facilities such as tennis courts and swimming pools.

Get out of the city and explore the desert on a guided jeep tour or head off on an organised camping expedition to get a taste of local life. Or luxuriate in the heart of the city at its Aqua Park, near Kuwait Towers, a popular venue on scorching summer days.

You'll find a wide range of international restaurants to choose from when you travel to Kuwait, with culinary options from across the globe. Restaurants tend to be grouped together, and the so-called “Restaurants Road” in Salmiya is a good place to satisfy your hunger pangs. A few restaurants here serve traditional Kuwaiti cuisine.

In the Qibla area of Kuwait City, you will find a few more traditional restaurants, serving local specialities. Look out for hummus, shawarma (meat and salad served in pitta) and mezze, a range of small dishes to share.

If you want to dine like a Kuwaiti, head for Souq Al Mubarakiya on Abdullah al-Salem Street, where you can feast on kebabs, hummus, pickles and Arabian bread at the edge of the old souq. A visit to the Fish Market in Mahboula is a must for seafood lovers. Here you can choose your fresh fish or seafood from the display and it will be prepared and cooked according to your instructions.

In Kuwait City, prices are high compared with the rest of the country, and shopping revolves around the city's malls. The Marina Mall is one of the largest, and features many international brands.

Outside the city, Kuwait's largest mall is The Avenues, where you will also find a selection of international stores. There's even a premium cinema where you can enjoy being served by your very own personal butler. Don’t forget to visit the latest addition to the many malls in Kuwait – Gate Mall located in Egaila.

However, it is worth visiting the city's souqs, where you can often pick up some great bargains. Souq Al Mubarakiya sells Eastern and Middle Eastern goods and is also home to a jewellery and gold market. Head for Souq Al-Juma'a on Fridays for second-hand bargains at low prices.