Tourist attractions

Bahrain National Museum

Region: Manama

Cultural Heritage

Largest museum spanning from ancient Dilmun civilization to modern era.

Qal'at al-Bahrain (Bahrain Fort)

Region: Northern coast

World Heritage

Ancient fortress preserving multilayered structures from pre-history onward, registered as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage.

Al Fateh Grand Mosque

Region: Manama

Religious Architecture

Nation's largest mosque; non-Muslims permitted guided interior tours.

Bab Al Bahrain (Bahrain Gate)

Region: Manama Old Quarter

Historical Architecture

1930s colonial architecture. Symbolic entrance to Manama Souq.

King Fahd Causeway

Region: West of Manama

Modern Architecture

Sea bridge linking Saudi Arabia. Central artificial island features observation tower.

Bahrain International Circuit

Region: Sakhir

Sports Facility

F1 Grand Prix venue. Track experience drives and karting facilities available.

Tree of Life

Region: Near Jabal ad Dukhan

Natural

Miraculously surviving giant acacia in desert with no visible water source.

Amwaj Islands

Region: Off Muharraq

Artificial Island Resort

Luxury residential-resort district with marina, beaches, and restaurants.

Manama Souq

Region: Old Quarter

Market

Traditional market with diverse shops selling gold, spices, textiles, and more.

Pearling Path

Region: Manama–Muharraq

World Heritage

Walkway linking traditional houses and warehouses related to pearling industry.

Durrat Al Bahrain

Region: Offshore south

Artificial Island Resort

Large-scale marina and luxury villas in palm-shaped development.

Al Dar Park

Region: Manama

Modern Architecture

Park developed around old oil well, exhibiting first drilling well.

Suggested itineraries

Manama Cultural Experience & World Heritage 2-Day Plan

Duration (days): 2

Highlights: National Museum, Manama Souq, Qal'at al-Bahrain

Efficient city tour and ancient ruins for short-stay visitors.

Desert & Island Resort Full Experience 4-Day Plan

Duration (days): 4

Highlights: Tree of Life, Bahrain GP Circuit, Amwaj Islands, Muharraq Old Quarter

Rental car itinerary balancing desert vistas and beach resorts.

History & Gastronomy Weekend Plan

Duration (days): 3

Highlights: Pearling Path, Traditional house cafe, Gastro tour

Experience remnants of pearl culture and Bahraini cuisine with guide.

Travel tips

  • Summer temperatures approach 45℃; outdoor activities best in early morning or evening.
  • Confirm taxi meters in use; avoid negotiation-based white taxis.
  • High-denomination local currency scarce. Prepare small bills and coins.
  • Many shops close Friday mornings for prayers.
  • Public Wi-Fi abundant, but prepaid SIM cards are affordable and fast.
  • Alcohol purchase and consumption only at hotels or licensed restaurants.
  • Tipping culture for charity is minimal, but 10% at restaurants is customary.
  • Female travelers need not wear scarves, but covering shoulders and knees is advisable.
  • Drone photography requires prior authorization.
  • Invited to local homes, expect Arabic coffee and dates hospitality.
  • King Fahd Causeway inevitably congested at dusk.
  • ATMs widely available; credit cards commonly accepted.