Things to do in Bahrain

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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