Bahrain is a land of striking contrasts, where history seamlessly blends with modern culture. This desert nation boasts a rich past, filled with fascinating stories and an enchanting oriental atmosphere, while also offering vibrant, trendy neighborhoods.
In Bahrain, you’ll find so much to explore that sets it apart from Western culture. The diversity is astonishing—from lively, colorful markets and historic mosques to captivating museums and sleek, ultra-modern shopping malls. Bahrain’s compact size means you can easily see all the major sights without long drives.
Here are the 10 Best Places to See in Bahrain:
Table of Contents
1. Al Fateh Grand Mosque
Al Fateh Grand Mosque is located in the northeastern part of Bahrain, in the bustling capital of Manama. This immense and awe-inspiring structure can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers, making it the largest mosque in the country. Built in 1987, the mosque is named after Bahrain’s founder, Ahmed Al Fateh, and also houses the National Library.
What makes the mosque particularly captivating is the incorporation of building materials from all around the world, transforming it into a masterpiece of global craftsmanship. Italian marble gleams throughout the structure, while the grand Indian doors and luxurious Irish carpets add to its splendor. Visitors can enhance their experience by requesting a guided tour, which provides an in-depth look into the mosque and its religious significance. Robes and veils are provided for the tour, along with a complimentary reading to offer a deeper understanding.
Adjacent to the Al Fateh Grand Mosque is the Ahmed Al Fateh Islamic Center, set within a large square that’s perfect for a peaceful stroll or quiet reflection. From here, you can take in the beauty of the mosque while soaking in the Bahraini sun. Around the square, numerous restaurants offer a chance to enjoy local flavors amidst the lively atmosphere.
| Tip: For a stark contrast to the Islamic Center, take a quick detour to the vibrant 338 Block. This trendy neighborhood, just a short distance from the mosque’s Islamic Center, offers a completely different atmosphere with its countless chic bars, excellent restaurants, art galleries, and exhibitions. |
Information about the Al Fateh Grand Mosque:
- Location link
- Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Price: Free entrance
- Important: For religious reasons, you must cover your shoulders and knees. Women can borrow an abaia at the entrance.
2. Tree of life
Now, let’s turn our attention to one of Bahrain’s most captivating natural wonders: the Tree of Life. This ancient and gnarled mesquite tree, estimated to be around 400 years old, thrives in the middle of the desert, seemingly without any visible source of water—a true marvel of nature.
Known as Shajarat-al-Hayat in Arabic, the Tree of Life has become the subject of many fascinating legends due to its mysterious survival in such harsh conditions. When you visit, you’ll not only have the chance to witness this awe-inspiring tree but also explore the myths and stories that surround it. The nearby visitor center provides a deeper look into its history, adding to the intrigue of this remarkable site.
3. Bahrain International Circuit
A must-see on your trip to Bahrain is the Bahrain International Circuit, one of the most famous circuits in motorsport. It was here that Michael Schumacher won the first Formula 1 race in Bahrain in 2004.
If you can watch a Formula 1 race live on the 5.4-kilometer-long track in Bahrain, take advantage of it!
| Tip: If you can’t make it to one of the famous Formula 1 races, I recommend sticking to one practice session. It is an incredible sight too watch fast cars whiz around the corner.Or do you want to step on the accelerator yourself? At a go-kart track next to the Bahrain International Circuit, you can even become a racer yourself every day between 7:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m. |
Information about Bahrain International Circuit
- Location link
- Open to General Public every day from 7:00 pm to 1:00 am
- Free entrance
- Events: In addition to Formula 1, drag racing, drifting or drag racing.
4. Qal’at al Bahrain
The Bahrain Fort, known as Qal’at al-Bahrain, sits on a mound of ancient ruins at the northern tip of the island. This historic site holds secrets dating back 2,300 years before Christ. Archaeological excavations began over 50 years ago, uncovering the fort’s rich history that spans seven distinct ancient civilizations. Even today, new and intriguing discoveries continue to emerge.
Covering more than 16,000 square meters, Qal’at al-Bahrain is composed of multiple layers that showcase a variety of remains, from ancient residential buildings and religious monuments to military structures. The site’s significance as a major trading port is evident, reflecting its pivotal role in the region’s history. Bahrain’s past is deeply intertwined with the fort, making it a must-visit during your stay in the country.
Information about Qal’at al Bahrain
- Location link
- Opening hours: Fortaleza: every day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Museum: from Tuesday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Price : Free entrance
5. Souq of Bab el-Bahrain
The Bab Al Bahrain building, located in the heart of Manama, holds a hidden gem behind its grand entrance: the souk, or souq.
From local foods, spices, and traditional clothing to furniture and even live animals, the Bab Al Bahrain souk offers an incredible range of items. This lively market is a striking contrast to the surrounding modern high-rises of Manama. You can savor local delicacies here, discover Arabic fabrics and garments, and absorb the vibrant atmosphere. Plus, haggling with vendors is part of the cultural experience.
For a modern twist on the traditional souk, head to the Moda Mall, located in the iconic Bahrain World Trade Center. This architectural marvel offers not only a breathtaking view of Bahrain but also an elegant shopping experience.
Information about Souq Bab Al Bahrain
- Location link
- Hours: Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
6. Bahrain National Museum
The Bahrain National Museum is one of the largest and oldest museums in the country, spanning 27,800 m² and offering a fascinating glimpse into nearly 6,000 years of history through its impressive archaeological finds.
The museum covers not only the archaeology of ancient civilizations and cultures but also provides insights into Bahrain’s natural history. One of the most exciting parts of the museum is the exploration of Bahrain’s pre-wealth era, showcasing its roots as a humble fishing village and the importance of pearl diving in its past. A particularly cool exhibit is the Durand Stone, where you can admire a remarkable basalt sculpture from the Babylonian era.
Information about Bahrain National Museum
- Location link
- Opening hours: every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Entrance fee: approx. $ 2.
7. Dilmun Paradise Lost Water Park
Sightseeing can be quite exhausting, but the next item on the list is sure to relax you: a dip in the Dilmun Paradise Lost Water Park, the largest aquatic reserve in Bahrain.
Here you can let off steam, test yourself on the fast slides, or slide down the ring slides, while the children play in the climbing paradise or build castles in the sand. You can also relax by the pool, enjoy an ice-cold drink in the warm sunshine, and a bite to eat from one of their restaurants.
| Tip: In Bahrain you can visit the coolest water parks even in winter, like the Lost Paradise of Dilmun, because the temperatures exceed 20°C all year long. Remember to bring sunscreen and drink plenty of water. |
Information about Dilmun Paradise Lost Water Park:
- Location link
- Opening hours: Sundays to Thursdays: 12 pm – 10 pm, Fridays & Saturdays: 11 am – 11 pm
- Admission: $20 for children under 1.20 m / otherwise, $50.
8. Pearling Path
Bahrain is home to the most beautiful pearls in the world. Interestingly, in Bahrain, the trade of cultured pearls is banned, meaning you can only buy natural pearls in the Kingdom. Have you ever dreamed of holding these mesmerizing pearls in your hands? Now you can, by exploring the 3.5-kilometer Pearling Path in Bahrain’s old city.
Visitors also have the unique opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive, diving deep to collect up to 60 oysters in a single session. And if you find a pearl, you get to keep it as a precious keepsake!
9. Beit Al Quran
Located in Hoora, Manama, the Islamic Arts building, which houses the Islamic Museum, is the most renowned and undoubtedly the most significant of its kind in Bahrain. Beit Al Quran boasts an extensive and invaluable historical collection of Qur’ans and other important manuscripts from various eras. Among its treasures is the oldest known copy of the Qur’an translated into Latin, dating back to 955. Inside, there is also a mosque with a stunning glass dome, and the complex includes a library that holds an astounding 50,000 books and manuscripts. The museum is organized into ten distinct exhibits spread across two floors.
- Location link
- Opening hours: Saturday-Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Price: Free entrance
10. Underwater Theme Park- Dive
The 100,000 m² Dive Bahrain underwater theme park is the largest in the world and offers you places that will make every diver’s heart beat faster. A special attraction is the 70-meter-long Boeing 747, which was sunk here as an artificial reef and can be explored.
Note: To be able to dive in the theme park, you must have a diving license and register at one of the listed dive centers. They will organize everything else for you.
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