Kuwait City walking tour & city guide

The old souq and the seafront

Souq Al-Mubarakiya is one of the oldest markets in the country, a maze of covered lanes selling dates, spices, perfume, gold and traditional dress, with simple restaurants and tea stalls around its courtyards. Close by stand the Grand Mosque, the largest in Kuwait, and Seif Palace with its clock tower by the sea.

From the centre, Arabian Gulf Street follows the coast for kilometres past beaches, parks and cafés. Its best-known landmark is the Kuwait Towers, three needle-like towers from the 1970s, two of them carrying spheres covered in blue, green and grey discs. Further along, Marina Crescent and the busy district of Salmiya are lively in the evening.

A classic walk: Al Shaheed Park to the Kuwait Towers

Start in the late afternoon at Al Shaheed Park, a large green park built on the line of the old city wall, with gardens, a lake and small museums. Walk north through the centre to Souq Al-Mubarakiya as the evening crowds arrive, and stop for tea and a snack in one of its courtyards.

From the souq, head down to the waterfront and follow Arabian Gulf Street east along the sea. After dark the Kuwait Towers are lit up, and the promenade fills with joggers, families and friends meeting on the benches by the water.

Good to know

November to March is the most comfortable time for walking; summer is among the hottest anywhere on Earth, and life moves into malls and air-conditioned cars. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the easiest way to get around. Dress modestly, especially in the souq and mosques, where visitors can join guided tours of the Grand Mosque. As with anywhere in the region, check current travel advice before you go.