Things to do in Bahrain

25 things to do in Bahrain

Listed in full below. The running order is set by votes and loads with the page.

• Explore the ancient Qal'at al-Bahrain (Bahrain Fort)

  Step inside a sprawling seaside fortress dating back to the Dilmun civilization, offering panoramic views of the Gulf and a glimpse into Bahrain’s rich past.

  Karbabad

• Wander through the Manama Souq

  Navigate the warren of alleyways filled with spices, textiles, and incense, immersing yourself in the vibrant trading heart of the capital.

  Manama

• Marvel at the Al Fateh Grand Mosque

  Stand beneath one of the world’s largest fibreglass domes in this serene mosque, which welcomes all visitors to learn about Islamic culture.

  Manama

• Walk the Pearling Path in Muharraq

  Follow a UNESCO-listed trail through restored merchant houses, warehouses, and a thriving souq that narrate Bahrain’s pearling heritage.

  Muharraq

• Discover the Dilmun Burial Mounds in A'ali

  Marvel at the sprawling ancient royal tombs dating back over 4,000 years, a testament to one of the earliest civilizations in the region.

  A'ali

• See the sunset from Bahrain Bay

  Watch the modern skyline shimmer as dusk falls over the waterfront promenade, with the iconic twin towers of the Financial Harbour reflecting on the water.

  Manama

• Dive for pearls off the coast of Al Dar Island

  Plunge into the warm Gulf waters on a guided pearl-diving excursion, collecting oysters the way Bahrainis have done for centuries.

  Al Dar Island

• Indulge in a traditional Bahraini breakfast at Haji Gahwa

  Sit under the famous wooden balconies of Manama souq and savour balaleet, eggs with tomato, and sweet karak tea at this iconic café.

  Manama

• Stroll through the Bahrain National Museum

  Explore artefacts from the Dilmun era to the oil boom, including reconstructed burial chambers and a hall devoted to pearl diving.

  Manama

• Admire contemporary art at the Al Riwaq Art Space

  Step into a vibrant gallery in Adliya that showcases cutting-edge Bahraini and international contemporary artists, plus a peaceful garden café.

  Adliya, Manama

• Experience the Bahrain International Circuit

  Feel the roar of engines at Formula 1’s desert temple, whether for the Grand Prix or public track days and go-karting at the adjacent karting circuit.

  Sakhir

• Relax at the Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park

  Slide down thematic water rides inspired by Bahrain’s ancient heritage, set amid lush landscaping in the desert outside Manama.

  Sakhir

• Visit the Tree of Life

  Marvel at a lone, centuries-old mesquite tree flourishing in the arid desert without any visible water source, a natural wonder.

  Jebel Dukhan

• Explore the Barbar Temple ruins

  Trace the remains of a 4,000-year-old Dilmun temple complex with mysterious underground shrines and a sacred well.

  Barbar village

• Sip karak tea at a roadside stall in Muharraq

  Savour the sweet, spiced milky tea from a tiny stall in the old souq alleys, a simple ritual beloved by locals.

  Muharraq

• Go birdwatching at Dohat Arad Lagoon

  Observe flamingos, herons, and migratory birds wading in the shallow salt marshes just behind Arad Fort at low tide.

  Arad

• Shop for gold at Manama Gold Souq

  Browse a glittering array of gold, precious stones, and traditional jewellery in the dedicated gold souq housed under a distinctive arched roof.

  Manama

• Sample traditional machboos at a local restaurant in Adliya

  Feast on Bahrain’s national dish—fragrant spiced rice with slow-cooked lamb or fish—in the buzzing dining quarter of Block 338.

  Adliya, Manama

• Watch a performance at the Bahrain National Theatre

  Attend a concert, ballet, or opera in this architecturally striking lakefront venue, blending traditional woodwork with a futuristic aluminium canopy.

  Manama

• Tour the Royal Camel Farm

  Visit the sprawling farm where hundreds of royal camels are bred and cared for, and even feed the calves by hand.

  Janabiya

• Visit the Shaikh Ebrahim Center for Culture and Research

  Sit in an atmospheric majlis and explore restored pearl merchant houses that host lectures, exhibitions, and musical evenings.

  Muharraq

• Take a traditional dhow sail at Amwaj Islands

  Board a wooden Arabian dhow for a sunset or moonlight cruise, gliding past the futuristic Amwaj skyline and open sea.

  Amwaj Islands

• Explore the historic Riffa Fort

  Climb to the clifftop Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort for sweeping views over the Hunanaiya valley and a glimpse into 19th-century royal life.

  Riffa

• Enjoy a night out in Adliya's Block 338

  Bar-hop, dine alfresco, and mingle in the dense grid of trendy restaurants, cafés, and galleries that make this the city’s nightlife hub.

  Adliya, Manama

• Relax on Marassi Beach

  Unwind on soft white sand facing the turquoise Gulf, with views of the landmark Marassi Al Bahrain development and luxury resorts.

  Diyar Al Muharraq