From the Gould Souk of Manama to the ancient Dilmun Burial Mounds, here are the best places to visit in Bahrain!
“The land is silver and the sea is pearl.”
Captain Durand; Extracts from Report on the Islands and Antiquities of Bahrain. Published 1880.
Old and new clash superbly in Bahrain. Outside the air conditioned malls, the gulf winds strip the islands bare, while the shallow, coral reefs that surround this Middle Eastern archipelago have been known since antiquity for their abundance of pearls. Surrounded by turquoise waters that lap at the foundations of high rise skyscrapers, Bahrain is a fascinating destination for a stopover.
Located in the Arabian Gulf, and connected to Saudi Arabia by the King Fahd Causeway, Bahrain has a history stretching back millennia. This was the centre of the Dilmun civilisation, a pivotal trading hub between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley that existed around 3000 BCE. Dilmun burial mounds still litter the desert landscapes, while Bahrain Fort was built on the ruins of these ancient peoples.
In the 16th century, the Portuguese were drawn here by Bahrain’s pearl trade, and in the 17th century, the islands fell under Persian control. Bahrain later became a British protectorate in the 19th century, a status it maintained until gaining independence in 1971. Since then, the traditional pearling and fishing industries have been replaced by oil, banking and finance, with a burgeoning tourist industry ready to welcome visitors to this lesser-trodden Middle Eastern nation. If you’re planning a trip to the Arabian Gulf, here are the best places to visit in Bahrain.
Table of Contents
Places to visit in Bahrain
My time in Bahrain was brief but fascinating. The tiny Middle Eastern destination has yet to cement itself on the Arabian tourist trail, and the mix of traditional culture and modernity places the country somewhere between the United Arab Emirates and Oman in terms of glitz and authenticity. Sure, you have plenty of shopping malls and cash-sprayed projects like the Bahrain International Circuit, but there are ancient Dilmun ruins and the relics of the historic pearling trade to explore too.
You only need a few days to see the best sights in Bahrain (I was here for just two days, but saw almost everything), with the majority of places situated in Manama, the capital, or just a short Uber drive away in Muharraq. Bahrain isn’t the best value destination, but you can find cheap eats amongst the souks and decent beach hotels at affordable prices (just stay away from the overpriced beers if you don’t want to break the bank!).
1. The Bahrain National Museum
The Bahrain National Museum, located in Manama, is the country’s premier cultural institution. Inaugurated in 1988, this is the best places to start any Bahraini getaway. The museum offers a comprehensive insight into Bahrain’s history and heritage, from the ancient Dilmun civilisation to contemporary times, post independence. The museum’s exhibits include archaeological artefacts, traditional crafts, and manuscripts, showcasing Bahrain’s role as a historic trading hub that was well recorded by ancient Greek and Roman writers like Pliny and Ptolemy.
One of the highlights for me was the Dilmun Hall, where you can see excavated artefacts from one of the oldest civilisations in the region. The Dilmun civilization isn’t a history I knew too much about before visiting Bahrain, but you’ll soon realise that their mark has been left across the archipelago to this today. The museum also features a reconstruction of a traditional Bahraini souq, offering insight into the island’s daily life and commerce, while the art hall displays works by modern Bahraini artists.
As a bonus, the café here is fantastic. You can sit back with an ice coffee and a falafel wrap by the waterfront, watching the boats zipping back and force between islands!
2. Bahrain Fort (Qal’at al-Bahrain)
Bahrain Fort (which is also known as Qal’at al-Bahrain) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the northern coast of Bahrain. This ancient fortification dates back to around 2300 BCE. It comprises an impressive castle built by the Portuguese in the 16th century atop earlier ruins from the Dilmun civilization, showcasing intricate layers of human occupation over millennia.
Excavations at Bahrain Fort have unearthed significant artefacts that reveal its historical role as a vital trading port. The fort’s strategic location made it a central hub in the trading networks of the ancient world, connecting Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, and the Arabian Peninsula. The archaeological finds, including pottery, seals, and tools, provide insight into the daily lives of its inhabitants and their interactions with other civilizations, all of which you can see in the adjacent museum.
3. Al Khamis Mosque
Al Khamis Mosque is one of the oldest Islamic places of worship in Arabia. Dating back to the 7th century, the exact origins are blurred, but it’s believed to have been established during the Umayyad Caliphate when Bahrain was conquered and converted. The mosque features a distinctive architectural style with its twin minarets, which were added in the 11th century, while the structure showcases traditional Islamic architecture, including a prayer hall supported by rows of columns and a spacious courtyard.
Over the centuries, Al Khamis Mosque has undergone several restorations, preserving its historical and architectural integrity. Visitors to Al Khamis Mosque can explore its historical ruins and learn about its significance in Bahrain’s Islamic history in the small museum, making it a key destination for those interested in the religious heritage of the island.
4. Al Fateh Grand Mosque
Al Fateh Grand Mosque, located in Manama, is one of the largest mosques in the world. Capable of accommodating over 7,000 worshippers, it was completed in 1988 and named after Ahmed Al Fateh, the founder of Bahrain. The mosque is a striking example of modern Islamic architecture, blended with traditional elements.
The mosque’s grandeur is evident from its impressive dome, constructed from fibreglass and weighing over 60 tonnes. It is one of the largest fibreglass domes in the world. The mosque’s intricate design features exquisite calligraphy, detailed carvings, and Italian marble floors.
Inside, the mosque houses a vast prayer hall, illuminated by beautifully crafted chandeliers and natural light filtering through stained glass windows. The mihrab, or prayer niche, is a focal point, intricately decorated and oriented towards Mecca. The mosque also includes a library with an extensive collection of Islamic texts and manuscripts, serving as a centre for Islamic learning. Open to visitors of all faiths, Al Fateh Grand Mosque offers guided tours that provide insights into Islamic practices and the mosque’s architectural significance.
5. Bab Al Bahrain
Bab Al Bahrain is a historic gateway that marks the entrance to the traditional streets of Manama’s Souk. Constructed in 1949 by Sir Charles Belgrave, the then advisor to the Emir, it initially overlooked the sea before extensive land reclamation projects. The structure exemplifies a blend of Islamic and colonial architectural styles, featuring a grand arch and detailed facades.
Bab Al Bahrain, meaning ‘Gateway to Bahrain’, stands as a significant cultural and historical landmark. It serves as the entrance to a commercial and social hub where visitors can explore the souk’s winding alleys filled with an array of shops offering spices, textiles, jewellery, and handicrafts. The gateway is also a focal point for cultural events and festivities, symbolising Bahrain’s rich heritage and its progression into modernity while maintaining its traditional roots.
6. Manama Gold Souk
Manama Souk, located in the heart of Bahrain’s capital near Bab Al Bahrain, is a marketplace that captures the essence of the island’s cultural and commercial heritage. This historic souk, with its labyrinthine alleys and traditional architecture, is one of the best places to visit in Bahrain.
Stalls and shops overflow with an array of goods, including aromatic spices, exotic perfumes, intricate textiles, gleaming gold jewellery, and plenty of electronics and knock off football shirts. The rich scent of spices and the vivid colours of fabrics contribute to the souk’s atmosphere, reminiscent of Bahrain’s long-standing history as a pivotal trading hub in the Arabian Gulf.
The art of haggling is part of the experience here, so be prepared to drawn on your inner business skills. Traditional coffee shops and eateries scattered throughout the souk provide spots for rest and refreshment, offering local delicacies and a place to soak in the surroundings.
Read more: How Many Countries Are in the Middle East? Everything You Need to Know.
7. Beit al Quran
Beit Al Quran is a renowned Islamic cultural centre and museum dedicated to the Quran and Islamic arts. Established in 1990, it houses an extensive collection of Quranic manuscripts from across the Islamic world, some dating back to the seventh century. The collection includes beautifully illuminated texts, rare calligraphy, and manuscripts written on a variety of materials such as parchment, rice paper, and papyrus.
The museum’s architecture itself is inspired by Islamic design, featuring traditional motifs and a striking facade. Inside, visitors can explore various galleries that not only display Quranic texts but also Islamic artefacts, including pottery, jewellery, and historical documents. Beit Al Quran serves as a significant cultural and educational hub, offering insight into Islamic heritage and fostering a deeper understanding of the Quran’s historical and artistic significance.
8. Bu Maher Fort
Bu Maher Fort, located in Muharraq, is a historical site with roots tracing back to the early 19th century. The fort once served as a key defensive structure and an important lookout point protecting the island’s maritime approaches. Originally built to safeguard the island’s pearl diving industry, Bu Maher Fort played a crucial role in Bahrain’s economic and cultural history.
Today, the fort is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pearling Path, which celebrates Bahrain’s pearling heritage. Visitors can explore the restored ruins and gain insight into the traditional pearling economy that once thrived in the region. The site offers a visitor centre with informative displays detailing the fort’s history and its significance within the broader context of Bahrain’s maritime past.
9. Bahrain International Circuit
Bahrain International Circuit is a premier motorsport venue, best known for hosting the annual Formula One Bahrain Grand Prix. Opened in 2004, the circuit was the first of its kind in the Middle East, designed by the renowned German engineer Hermann Tilke. It features a unique desert setting and a state-of-the-art track that spans 5.412 kilometres.
The circuit includes six different track layouts, accommodating various motorsport events such as the World Endurance Championship, GP2, and drag racing. Beyond racing, the circuit offers year-round activities, including driving experiences and karting.
10. Dilmun Burial Mounds
The Dilmun Burial Mounds are among the most significant archaeological sites in the Arabian Gulf, offering a window into the island’s ancient past. Dating back to the Early Dilmun period around 2200 BCE, these burial mounds are spread across various locations in Bahrain, with the most prominent clusters found in A’ali, Saar, and Hamad Town.
The mounds are part of the Dilmun civilisation, a prosperous trading culture that connected Mesopotamia with the Indus Valley. The site comprises tens of thousands of burial mounds of varying sizes, reflecting the social stratification of the Dilmun society. The larger mounds, sometimes called ‘Royal Mounds’, are believed to have been for the elite and are distinguished by their elaborate construction and grave goods.
Archaeological excavations have revealed a wealth of artefacts, including pottery, metal objects, and jewellery, which provide insights into the burial practices and daily life of the Dilmun people. The mounds’ construction, often featuring a central stone burial chamber, showcases sophisticated engineering skills.
11. The Tree of Life
The Tree of Life is a 400-year-old mesquite tree in the middle of the Bahraini desert that’s become a national symbol of natural resilience and mystery. Standing alone on a sandy hill in the midst of an arid landscape, the tree thrives despite the harsh desert conditions and the apparent lack of water sources.
Scientists believe the tree’s deep root system, which extends far beneath the surface, may tap into underground water reserves or obtain moisture from the breezes off the Persian Gulf. The Tree of Life has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors who are intrigued by its ability to survive in such a barren environment. Locals have long regarded the tree with reverence, attributing various myths and legends to its endurance.
12. Sheikh Isa Bin Ali House
Sheikh Isa Bin Ali House, located in Muharraq, is one of the finest examples of traditional Gulf architecture. Built in the late 19th century, it served as the residence of Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, who ruled Bahrain from 1869 to 1932. The house exemplifies the architectural style of the period, featuring intricate carvings, wind towers (barjeel), and courtyards designed to provide natural ventilation and cooling.
The residence is divided into several sections, including private quarters, guest rooms, and administrative offices, reflecting its multifunctional role during Sheikh Isa’s reign. The use of gypsum, coral stones, and wood in its construction highlights the region’s traditional building materials and techniques.
Read more: How Many Countries in Asia? Everything You Need to Know.
13. Al Jazayer Beach
Al Jazayer Beach, on Bahrain’s southwestern coast, is one of the island’s most popular and picturesque public beaches. Stretching along a scenic coastline, it offers pristine sandy shores and clear turquoise waters.
Al Jazayer Beach is not only a haven for beachgoers but also a hub for events and festivals. Its proximity to the Bahrain International Circuit adds to its appeal, providing a blend of natural beauty and modern convenience. Visiting Al Jazayer Beach offers a refreshing escape and a taste of Bahrain’s coastal scenery.
14. Al Dar Islands
Al Dar Islands are located off the coast of Sitra, and they’re the perfect destination for anyone looking for an adventurous day out. The islands are renowned for their crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and colourful marine life, and visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.
The islands are also equipped with facilities for water sports such as jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For those interested in exploring beneath the waves, Al Dar Islands provide excellent snorkelling opportunities, with coral reefs teeming with colourful fish and other marine creatures.
To visit Al Dar Islands, you can take a boat from the Al Dar headquarters in Sitra Fisherman’s Port. Regular boat services ferry visitors to and from the islands, with the journey taking approximately 10 minutes. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot on the boat.
15. Muharraq
Muharraq is Bahrain’s former capital, and the area is known for its traditional architecture and heritage. Muharraq offers a glimpse into Bahrain’s past, and the city is home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pearling Path, which includes historic buildings, dhow yards, and the Bu Maher Fort, which all showcase the island’s pearling industry legacy.
Walking through Muharraq’s narrow streets, you can explore beautifully restored traditional houses, such as the Sheikh Isa Bin Ali House and the Siyadi House, reflecting the intricate craftsmanship and architectural styles of the 19th century. The city also hosts cultural sites like the Muharraq Souq, a bustling market where one can find spices, textiles, and local crafts.
Map of the best places to visit in Bahrain
Here’s a map of the best places to visit in Bahrain:
There you have it! The best places to visit in Bahrain? What’s going on your bucket list?
Recent Comments