Visit Bahrain
A small island with 4,000 years of history, great food and a short flight from almost anywhere in the Gulf.
CurrencyBahraini Dinar (BHD), pegged to the US dollar
LanguagesArabic, with English widely spoken
Best timeNovember to March
Getting hereBahrain International Airport, or the King Fahd Causeway from Saudi Arabia
What to see in Bahrain
Most sights are within 45 minutes of Manama, so you can see several in one day.
1
Qal’at al-Bahrain
The fort and ancient Dilmun capital on the northern coast is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Go at sunset for the light on the walls.
2
Bahrain Pearling Path
A UNESCO-listed trail through Muharraq with merchant houses, shops and oyster beds from the pearl-diving era.
3
Manama Souq and Bab Al Bahrain
Spices, gold, textiles and street food in the lanes behind the old city gate.
4
Tree of Life
A lone mesquite tree standing in the desert, said to be around 400 years old.
5
Bahrain National Museum
Bahrain’s story from Dilmun burial mounds to the modern kingdom, on the Manama waterfront.
6
Al Fateh Grand Mosque
One of the largest mosques in the region. Guided visits are open to non-Muslims outside prayer times.
7
Bahrain International Circuit
The home of Formula 1 in Bahrain, with race weekend in spring and track experiences through the year.
8
Hawar Islands
A boat trip south to a nature reserve with birdlife, beaches and quiet water.
9
Adliya and Block 338
Galleries, cafes and restaurants on one walkable street grid. Best after sunset.
Eat this
- Machboos: spiced rice with chicken, lamb or fish
- Muhammar: sweet rice served with fish or dates
- Bahraini halwa: a slow-cooked sweet flavoured with cardamom and saffron
- Karak tea and fresh dates at any cafe
Good to know
- The weekend is Friday and Saturday.
- Summers are very hot. Plan outdoor sights for early morning.
- Dress modestly at mosques and in the old souqs.
- Visa rules depend on your passport. Ask us and we will confirm the current requirements.
Bahrain tours
Plan your Bahrain stay
Hotels, airport pick-up, guides and day trips. Tell us your dates and we send a price.