places to visit in bahrain near me

Striking 16 Places To Visit In Bahrain For An Enriching Travel Experience

Bahrain is one of the most stunning places to visit in the Middle East that attracts people from all over the world. Nestled in the Persian Gulf, Bahrain comprises around 51 islands which adds to the natural beauty of this country. Apart from the natural islands, Bahrain is also brimmed with around 33 artificial islands. The best of the places to visit in Bahrain comprises stunning architectural buildings, mosques, museums and traditional markets that reflect the true culture of the country. Let’s check out the best places to visit in this country which makes it a gem in the Middle Eastern region.

Top 16 Places To Visit In Bahrain For A Great Vacation

Bahrain is a beautiful island nation that only comprises enchanting islands but also a number of architectural attractions and vibrant markets. Let’s have a look at the best places to visit in Bahrain for a great travel experience.

1. Manama City

Manama is one of the best Bahrain attractions that reflects a beautiful amalgamation of traditional with contemporary style. Manama’s skyline is brimmed with glistening skyscrapers and other architectural buildings that reflect the beauty of the artistic skills of the people of Bahrain. The most striking part of Bahrain’s skyline is the set of twin towers which are around 240 meters high and also the Bahrain World Trade Center. The authentic Islamic architecture, traditional markets, and scrumptious Middle Eastern cuisine make this city a perfect place to spend a heartfelt vacation at.

Best Time to Visit: December to March

Ideal Duration: 3 Days

Nearest Airport: Bahrain International Airport

Popular Attractions: Bahrain National Museum, Manama Souq, Bahrain National Theatre, Beit Al Quran, Sheikh Isa Bin Ali House, Al Fatih Mosque

Things to Do: Marvel at the Islamic architecture, taste the Middle Eastern delicacies, shop from the traditional markets, witness the beauty of Bahrain’s striking skyline

Best Places to Stay: The Merchant House, Elite Resort & Spa, Gulf Hotel Bahrain, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, Reef Boutique Hotel, Downtown Rotana, Ramada Hotel and Suites Amwaj Islands

2. Bahrain National Museum

Spread in an area 27,800 sq meters, Bahrain National Museum is the biggest public museum in the country that houses various artefacts that reflect the rich history of Bahrain. It is definitely one of the best tourist places in Bahrain which offers an enriching experience to all the history buffs out there. The beachfront location and the marvelous architecture of the museum is sufficient enough to enchant you to take a visit to this museum. The entire museum has been divided into 6 main sections featuring six halls and housing artefacts dating back to 4000 years old kingdom. Taking a tour of Bahrain National Museum is one of the best things to do in Bahrain .

Location: Shaikh Hamad Causeway, Manama, Bahrain

Timings: 09:00 am to 08:00 pm (Closed on Tuesdays)

Entry Fee: 1 BD or 2 BD

Built In: 15th December 1988

Built By: Hartvig Rasmussen

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3. Beit Al Quran

One of the most important places to visit in Bahrain in terms of religion is Beit Al Quran that houses a rich collection of Qurans. The place has Qurans from almost every century and also one of the very first translations into a European language. There is also a library where you can find books and works of some of the most renowned Islamic writers from across the world. Another fascinating part of Beit Al Quran are the miniature Qurans which can be found here and the smallest of them all measures only 4.7cm by 3.2cm. Not just Qurans, one can also witness fine works of Islamic calligraphy, manuscripts, wood carvings and other artefacts.

Location: Building No.17، Rd No 1901, Manama, Bahrain

Timings: 09:00 am to 1:00 pm; 04:00 pm to 06:00 pm (Closed on Fridays)

Entry Fee:  Free

Built In: March, 1990

Built By: Abdul Latif Jassim Kanoo

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4. Riffa Fort

History buffs will find Bahrain a very pleasing place as the country is brimmed with myriad historical attractions. One of the best tourist places in Bahrain is Riffa Fort which is known for its stunning architecture and will take you back to history during the reign of Al Khalifas. The fort was built in the year 1812 by Sheikh Salman Bin Ahmad Al Fatih. The fort houses a small museum with an array of listings and artefacts that will offer an enriching experience to the travelers. There is also a mosque inside the fort which is open except for the prayer hours.

Location: Rd No 368, Riffa, Bahrain

Timings: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm (Closed on Sundays)

Entry Fee: Free

Built In: 1812

Built By: Sheikh Salman Bin Ahmad Al Fatih

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5. Hawar Island

One of the most famous places in Bahrain is Hawar Island which offers a tranquil getaway to tourists who love nature and serenity. Dotted with the Persian Gulf, Hawar Island offers opportunities for water sports. One can also find some of the best resorts in Bahrain here as Hawar Island is famous as a popular resort destination. From scenic views of the sea to luxurious resorts, Hawar Island is a stunning place to visit in Bahrain. The island is also home to various different species of birds along with sand gazelle and Arabian Oryx.

Location: Persian Gulf

Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 Days

Things to Do: Water sports

Best Places to Stay: Hawar Beach Hotel, Bahrain Beach Resort, Jaw Resort & Spa, Marina Residence Canal View, Al Areen Palace & Spa by Accor

6. Amwaj Islands

Bahrain being an island country is full of the exotic island and one such famous island is Amwaj Island which is a group of a number of artificial islands. One of the best places to visit in Bahrain, Amwaj Island houses not just some of the best beaches of Bahrain but also luxurious restaurants, resorts, cafes and shopping malls making it a top-notch place to visit in Bahrain. There are so many entertainment options in Amwaj and we are sure there will never be a dull moment here.

Location: Northeast of Bahrain

Things to Do: Enjoy thrilling adventures, dine-in at fancy restaurants, enjoy shopping from luxurious malls

Best Places to Stay: The Grove Hotel & Conference Centre, Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Amwaj Islands, The Art Hotel & Resort, The Grove Resort Bahrain.

7. Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve

For all the lovers of flora and fauna, Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve is the place to be which is one of the best tourist places in Bahrain . Housing more than 25 species of flora, over 80 species of birds and several other species of mammals, Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve is a natural reserve as well as a zoo. The park has been taking care of different species for the past 30 years and delights every traveler who loves fauna. The Wildlife Park & Reserve houses Water Birds Park, Wild Birds Park, Desert Flora Garden, and Wild Animals Complex.

Location: Zallaq, Bahrain

Timings: Sunday to Thursday: 09:00 am to 01:00 pm (Closed on Fridays and Saturdays)

Entry Fee: BD 1 (Free for children less than 2 years)

Built In: 1976

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8. Manama Souq

A visit to Bahrain would be incomplete without strolling through its traditional markets and buying some antique stuff from here. Located in the heart of Manama, Manama Souq is one of the best Bahrain tourist attractions where you will get a true insight into the local culture of Bahrain. It is a great place to buy souvenirs from Bahrain, spices, jewelry and places which are popular items to buy from Bahrain. Bargaining is the key to getting the most affordable pieces at the Manama Souq, so try out your bargaining skills to get the best deals.

Location: Al Mutanabi Ave, Manama, Bahrain

Timings: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm (Closed on Fridays)

Built In: 1949

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Another of those Bahrain famous places , Juffair is often taken to be an extension of the urban sprawl in Manama. However, the place is a completely different part of Bahrain.

Why visit here? Well, Juffair is one of those places where development has rapidly happened over the years. The city sees new towers pop up almost every year which travelers coming here can see.

But here's a thing, development is not the only reason why the Juffair features amongst the famous places in Bahrain. There are a number of restaurants in the city that are renowned for their world-class delicacies. Want some options in accommodation? Well, Juffair has it all. The city is, in fact, home to some of the finest hotels in Bahrain today. The best part about the whole place is that one can visit the American Alley which is an area famed for its top of the line bars and the restaurants in Juffair.

Location: Manama, Bahrain

Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 days

Things to Do: Visit the Juffair Park, Explore the Bahrain fort, savor a meal at a restaurant

Best Places to Stay: Gulf Hotel Bahrain, Wyndham Garden Manama, Gulf Executive Residence Juffair GERJ, Arch Hotel, BW Signature Collection, Swiss-Belsuites Admiral Juffair, Swiss-Belresidences Juffair, Marriott Executive Apartments Manama

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10. Isa Town

One of the best places to go in Bahrain as far as shopping is concerned, Isa Town is a fine place that doesn't disappoint travelers. One may think of it as a simple town brimming with luxurious homes and villas. However, there's a lot more to Isa Town that travelers know about. There is an active marketplace in the town that competes well with some of the best shopping malls in Bahrain today.

One can visit the colorful bazaar stalls and shop for the best of fabrics and handicrafts here without any sense of discomfort. Visitors coming here even get to enjoy the local cafés here while the colossal Bahrain National Stadium is a major attraction amongst travelers coming here. This is, in fact, the largest football venue in the country and jam-packed on matchdays.

Location: north-central part of Bahrain

Ideal Duration: 1 day

Things to Do: Visit the local cafes, shop for the best of handicrafts and fabrics

Best Places to Stay: Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain, Fraser Suites Diplomatic Area Bahrain, The K Hotel

11. Al Jasra

Another of those places to visit in the Middle East , Al Jasra is nestled at the crossroads of King Fahd Causeway and the straits of the western coast of Bahrain. Popularly known as the heritage heartland of the region, the village is where one can find the best of arts and crafts. From the best of weavings, pottery, souvenirs and so much more, there's a lot to look forward to at Al Jasra.

Besides, if you're done shopping and wondering what to do now, well, there's another site that awaits you. The Al Jasra House, popularly known for being the former residence of Sheikh Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa is widely popular for its glowing coral stonework. One can visit here and have a great time exploring the wonders of the world.

Location: Western coast of the Kingdom of Bahrain

Things to Do: Shop for the best of weavings, pottery, souvenirs

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Nestled close to Manama and one of the finest places to go in Bahrain, Saar offers the tranquility that one can expect to get on a holiday in the Middle East. If you're considering planning your vacation in Bahrain during the upcoming months, well, this is the place you should definitely visit. It is often considered to be one of the best places to visit in April in the world due to the number of attractions it offers.

One can spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of urban life here. The place is home to many summer houses that usually belong to the rich and famous people of Bahrain. The best part about the place is also the host of cafes and coffee houses that one gets. There are, in fact, a number of dining options available in the area too which serve mouth-watering delicacies to visitors.

As for other attractions? Saar houses some historical sites as well which are highly popular amongst visitors coming here.

It is home to the early Dilmun Settlements which are popular for their metalwork and copper ore artifacts.

Location: West of the capital, Manama

Things To Do: Spend time at the cafes and coffee houses, visit the historical sites

13. Muharraq

Muharraq is one of those famous places to visit in Bahrain that date back a long way in history. This is a place that dates back to the Dilmun Civilization and is one of the finest places to visit on a holiday today. What is interesting about this place is that Muharraq used to be the capital of Bahrain but was then later changed. Today, however, Muharraq is the entry and exit to the beautiful country of Bahrain as it is home to the Bahrain International Airport. A major travel hub for travelers coming to the country, the BIA is where all international airlines arrive.

Likewise, it is one of those places where the Greeks brought real prosperity. One can visit the various cafes and restaurants here that are widely famous for the number of delicacies they serve. So, what’s the delay? Enjoy your time at the various cafes with hookah pipes or taste the delicious mint tea. Besides, Muharraq is not just home to the Bahrain International Airport but is also a major transport hub for travelers coming to the country. What’s more? Muharraq has its own football team as well which is said to be the best in Bahrain. So, if you’re a footballing fan coming to this city, well, you are about to have a great time.

Location - Muharraq is located on the Muharraq island in Bahrain which is located about 4 KM to the east of the capital of the country, Manana.

Ideal Duration - 2 to 3 days

Nearest Airport - Bahrain International Airport is located in Muharraq itself.

Things To Do - Visit the Muharraq Souq, Watch Bahrain’s best football team play a match, Spend time at the various cafes and restaurants here

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14. Hawar Islands

The islands that are situated right on the edge of Bahrain and are very close to Qatar, Hawar Islands are virtually uninhabited. This is, in fact, one of those parts of Bahrain where sourcing water is a humongous task. Hence, these islands remain virtually uninhabited today. So why do you visit here? Well, one of the major reasons why Hawar islands are popular amongst travelers is because of the birds that one can watch here.

The islands are home to some of the most endangered birds in the region that can be seen wandering along the shoreline. One can get to see some rare species like Socotra Cormorant, and more. Besides, even if you're a wildlife lover, Hawar Islands are home to the Arabian Oryx that wildlife lovers can see over a period of time on Hawar Islands. So, why not visit here on a vacation in Bahrain?

Location - Hawar Islands are located off the west coast of Qatar in the Gulf of Bahrain of the Persian Gulf.

Ideal Duration - 1 day

Nearest Airport - The Bahrain International Airport is located about 70.67 KM away from Hawar Islands

Things To Do - See some rare species like Socotra Cormorant, Get a chance to see the Arabian Oxyx  

15. Hamad Town

Nestled in the northern side of Bahrain, the name Hamad town refers to the present king of the kingdom, Hamad ibn Isa Al Khalifah. Travelers coming here will find the city to be culturally diverse. This is where people from all backgrounds of life live together in harmony. In fact, Hamad is often recognized as the epitome of Bahraini multiculturalism where no single religious group forms a majority. One can visit this part of Bahrain and explore a number of locations here. Interestingly, Hamad is located in close proximity to the capital Manana (18 KM) while the Bahrain International Airport is only 19 KM away from the city. With a population of around 90,000 people, this is, in fact, one of the largest modern cities to be located in Bahrain.

Besides, one notable attraction of the city is the Bahrain International Circuit which remains on the Formula One calendar every season. The circuit is indeed the largest track in the Middle East and a major attraction for tourists coming here. Likewise, there are a couple of other top locations to discover in Hamad like Souq Waqif, Bahrain Flea Market, and so on. Visit here during the Formula One event and come witness a once in a lifetime sporting fest.

Location - Hamad Town is located on the northern side of Bahrain

Nearest Airport - Bahrain International Airport is located about 19 KM away from Hamad Town

Things To Do - Visit the Bahrain International Circuit, Shop at Souq Waqif, Explore the Bahrain Flea Market

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Another town that is part of the Northern Governorate and one of the biggest towns in Bahrain, A'Ali is known for its burial mounds spread across here. One can find about 17 royal mounds here that were constructed about 4000 years ago. Just goes to show how A'Ali was an important place in antiquity. Interestingly, there are more than 100,000 Dilmun-era burial mounds scattered across Bahrain.

The most interesting of all in A'Ali is the royal mound 8. Featuring five separate chambers, this is a mound that is 12 M high and 50 M across. Besides, the best time to explore these mounds in A'Ali is during late afternoons when the weather gets cool enough to enjoy exploring the city. One can easily roam around the streets or catch glimpse of the gigantic mounds that are here on earth.

Location - A'Ali town is part of the Northern Governorate in Bahrain

Ideal Duration - 1 to 2 days

Nearest Airport - Bahrain International Airport is the nearest airport to A'Ali

Things To Do - Explore the great mounds on earth, roam around the streets

17. Qal’at Al Bahrain

Now here's a thing, Bahrain attracts travelers for many reasons. While some think of it as one of the finest food destinations in the world , others would probably live to explore the islands here. But there are also certain sites in the country that historical lovers would certainly love. One of them is Qal’at Al Bahrain.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site that has altogether a different vibe about it, and can be found to the west of Manama. Interestingly, much of the fortress shows that the site dates back to the 6th-century citadel that must have been used by the Portuguese. However, there are also larger mounds that have been excavated over a period of time which shows that the site might have been occupied as far back as 2,300 BC.

So, are you a history buff longing to explore the hidden wonders of Bahrain? Well, Qal’at Al Bahrain is certainly the place you should visit. Come here and experience seeing an important piece of history in the country.

Best Time To Visit - Although travelers can visit here at any time, the best time to visit Qal’at Al Bahrain is 2 to 3 hours before sunset

Ideal Duration - Few hours

Nearest Airport - Bahrain International Airport

Best Places To Stay Nearby - The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Swiss Belhotel Seef Bahrain, Fraser Suites Seef Bahrain, The Westin Bahrain City Center, Mercure Grand Hotel Seef, Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa, S Hotel Bahrain

One of the many islands in Bahrain , Sitra is a fine place that sits in the Persian Gulf and is located on the eastern side of Bahrain. Although Bahrain is a country where one can expect to see historical sites in abundance, Sitra is one island where travelers can get to see a different side of Bahrain. The side is largely occupied by oil companies and local fishermen which makes it an interesting place to visit in Bahrain.

What's more? There are a number of agricultural villages here too like Al Kharijiya and Mahazza which travelers would certainly be fascinated to explore. Likewise, visitors can also use Sitra as a stepping stone to the Al Dar archipelago. A fine island where one can find palm-fringed beaches and the best of seaside eateries, Al Dar is a place which one can explore while on a visit to Sitra. So, what's the delay? Sitra is the best place to visit in Bahrain\ and spend a day experiencing a different side of Bahrain.

Best Time To Visit - Travelers can visit Sitra at any time of the year as the temperature is favorable for exploration here.

Best Places To Stay - Travelers coming to Sitra can stay at the Al Bander Hotel & Resort which is the main place of accommodation here.

How To Reach Bahrain?

Being one of the most popular holiday destinations around the world, Bahrain is all about the luxuries of life while the historical experience here is top-notch. Besides, as far as reaching here is concerned, here's what you need to know.

Reaching By Air -

As far as the flight journey is concerned, the Bahrain International Airport is the main travel hub here and all international flights arrive here. Hence, travelers can easily book plane tickets to Bahrain without any hassle.

Reaching By Rail -

The closest country to Bahrain is Saudi Arabia and travelers can take a rail journey between the two countries to reach Bahrain.

Reaching By Bus -

Now here's a thing, reaching Bahrain by bus isn't a big hassle for tourists. One can easily travel to the country via bus which takes approximately 4 hours or more. Travelers are advised to carry their passports along with them. As for the cost? The price for the one-way cost is usually around 60 SAR.

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Bahrain is undoubtedly one of the best countries to visit in the Middle Eastern region. A perfect blend of modern with the old charm, Bahrain is a spectacular treat for eyes. From stunning museums to mosques and traditional markets, Bahrain offers a pleasant travel experience to travelers. Not just the cultural attractions, Bahrain is also famous for its enchanting islands that houses a perfect tranquil vacation. Being an island country, Bahrain is a perfect gateway to serenity and tranquility which can be witnessed at the islands here. With several places to visit in Bahrain, one can plan their itinerary prior to booking flights to Bahrain to enjoy to the fullest.

December to March is considered the best time to visit Bahrain when the temperature ranges between 20°C to 25°C.

Generally, 3 to 4 days are enough for a trip to Bahrain.

The main airport in Bahrain where all the international flights land is Bahrain International Airport (BAH).

Some of the main historical places to visit in Bahrain are:

• Adhari Park
• Al-Qudaibiya Palace
• Bahrain Fort
• Qal’at Al-Bahrain
• Bahrain National Museum

Some of the best things to do in Bahrain are:

• Witness a great collection of Quran at Beit Al Quran
• Know about Bahrain’s history at Bahrain National Museum
• Marvel at the glistening skyline of Manama
• Admire the architecture of Riffa Fort
• Shop from the local markets of Bahrain

The top hotels to stay in Bahrain are:

• Gulf Hotel Bahrain
• Lagoona Beach Resort
• Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa
• Al Areen Palace & Spa
• Majestic Arjaan by Rotana
• The Gulf Hotel

The main attractions to visit in Manama include:

• Manama Souq
• Bahrain National Theatre
• Beit Al Quran
• Sheikh Isa Bin Ali House
• Al Fatih Mosque

Tourists are generally expected to dress modestly in Bahrain especially at public and religious places like mosques.

Yes, Bahrain is absolutely safe for tourists. People just need to be extra cautious at public places like markets and also avoid traveling late at night.

Amwaj Islands is famous for its several artificial islands, luxurious resorts and restaurants and shopping malls.

Tulika Pandey

I am a travel enthusiast, who likes to move on wheels with a backpack to meet new people and explore new places. I like to share my experiences through words and pictures with the world.

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Home » Travel Guides » Bahrain » 15 Best Places to Visit in Bahrain

15 Best Places to Visit in Bahrain

Bahrain is famous for its gorgeous pearls which used to make their way all over the world from its bustling ports. Contrary to popular belief, it was these precious jewels from the sea that first made this Middle Eastern hub rich, rather than its more famous oil. In recent times however, this liquid black gold has taken over and Bahrain has become known less for its aquatic gems and more for its oil refineries.

As this business has progressed however, the oil is being drained from the arid lands of Bahrain at a startling rate, and this little old island is now having to look for new income streams to stay ahead of the game. Just some of these include two major players in the form of banking and tourism.

The first of these is not very relevant to visitors to this island, but the second is a great addition to Bahrain’s portfolio. With this in mind, people flock to Bahrain despite a downturn in tourism in the Middle East as a result of the Arab Spring, and it remains a popular place for those looking for an exotic enclave with lots of interesting and engaging attractions.

Thousands are now visiting Bahrain to see the crumbling ruins of the old Dilmun civilizations, the mighty fortress of Qalat Al Bahrain, the famous scuba diving sites, and the quaint desert towns and craft centers that dot the country.

Here are the best places to visit in Bahrain :

At first glance Manama might not seem very exciting, and you may write it off as just another gilded metropolis that can be found all across the Middle East.

If you explore beneath the shimmering buildings however and the steel-grey skyscrapers that line the Corniche al-Fateh, you will find an exciting Arabic city that has a rich history and engaging culture.

Some of the great highlights in Manama can be found in the throbbing souks where you can discover spices, pearls, and exquisite carpets, and you can also take a trip to the Bahrain National Museum to learn all about the Portuguese and Persian past of this city.

If you so desire, you can also find swish shopping malls aplenty, as well as luxury resorts that nestle along the Gulf Coast.

Riffa is located in the heart of Bahrain and it used to be the largest city in the country, before being usurped by its big brother Manama.

As a result, this town is full of old world character and you can see ancient sights such as the great Riffa Fort which has amazing crenulated bulwarks and antique court rooms.

You will also find winding shopping streets as well as authentic Arabic bazaars which make this a great spot to pick up some trinkets like pearl necklaces and Middle Eastern spices.

As you would expect, the modern mixes with the ancient here, and one of the most famous golf courses in the Middle East is also found in Riffa.

The Amwaj Islands are an archipelago off the coast of Bahrain and present a lesson in Middle Eastern opulence.

The islands are made, as is often the way here, from 100% reclaimed land and you will find spectacular whitewashed towers here as well as luxury apartments.

There are billionaires’ yachts bobbing on the private jetties and some of the best beaches in Bahrain are found here.

These include the enclaves around Tala Island which feature pristine sands and azure lagoons that are perfect if you want to take a dip while enjoying the moneyed surroundings.

4. Amwaj Island

The district of Juffair is sometimes thought of as just another extension of the urban sprawl in Manama, but actually this used to be a completely separate part of Bahrain.

One of the main reasons to come here however is to see how rapidly this city is developing as new towers pop up here every year and you will find some top class eateries as well as a wealth of accommodation options.

It is also the home of American Alley which, as the name suggests, is an expatriate area of Manama famed for its bars and fast food restaurants.

5. Muharraq

Muharraq dates from the Dilmun Civilization but it was the Greeks that brought real prosperity to this northern city in Bahrain when they began a series of powerhouse trade routes here.

It used to be the capital of Bahrain but nowadays Muharraq is the entry and exit point of Bahrain as it is also the home of Bahrain International Airport.

As well as being the main transport hub however, this city also has its own distinct charm.

This can be found in the traditional souk area where you will find a wealth of cafes with hookah pipes and mint tea, and this is also a great place to pick up some Middle Eastern trinkets.

As an aside, the local football team in Muharraq is reportedly the best in Bahrain.

6. Hawar Islands

The Hawar Islands sit at the southernmost point of the Bahraini archipelago and are just across the coast from neighboring Qatar.

These islands are uninhabited, although this is mostly due to the fact that this is one of the most arid parts of Bahrain and as such sourcing water is difficult.

One reason to come here however is for the birds as this is the home of the rare and endangered Socotra cormorant which can often be found wandering along the shorelines.

As well as birds, wildlife lovers can also spot the occasional Arabian Oryx.

7. Isa Town

Isa Town, at first glance, may look like it is simply made up of whitewashed villas and luxury homes.

Scratch below the surface however and you will find an active marketplace full of colorful bazaar stalls selling fabrics and traditional Bahraini handicrafts.

This is also a great spot to pull up a chair at a local cafe and enjoy a glass of mint tea and listen to the locals chatter away.

If you like football, then this is also the home of the colossal Bahrain National Stadium, the largest football venue in the country and it gets very crowded on match days.

8. Hamad Town

Some of Bahrain’s cities are ancient wonders, while others are more modern, such as Hamad Town which dates from the 1980s.

Located 18 kilometers outside of Manama, it was meant to serve the crowds of commuters working in this already crowded capital city, so with that in mind it is easy to make the trip out here.

The town is famous for its wacky roundabouts that dot the horizon as well as the Bahraini Formula One circuit which is located close by.

Zallaq hugs the western coastline of Bahrain and you will find limpid turquoise lagoons and date palms dotting the shore.

This part of Bahrain is famous for the white sands of Al Jazaer Beach and here you will find a shimmering arc which is also one of the best-loved public beaches in the region.

Water sports are popular here including jet skiing and kite surfing and there are barbecue pits all along the beach.

Located between Isa Town and the western coast of Bahrain is the lovely little backcountry village of A’Ali.

The village is known for being the arts and crafts hub of the region and is particularly famous for its pottery.

One of the best things to do here is to wander down to the local bazaar and explore the ceramic shops while watching the locals work on this stunning craft.

Once you have picked up some souvenirs, make sure to head out of town to the famous Dilmun burial mounds that are located nearby and date back 5,000 years.

11. Al Jasra

You can keep searching for gorgeous handicrafts at the village of Al Jasra which sits at the crossroads of King Fahd Causeway and the straits of the western coast of Bahrain.

This area is known as one of the heritage heartlands of the region and is a great arts and crafts hub long with A’Ali.

Here you will find weavings, pottery, and other traditional crafts that make great souvenirs or gifts.

After you have finished shopping, another key sight here is the Al Jasra House which was the former summer residence of Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and is known for its glowing coral stonework.

12. Qal’at Al Bahrain

This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bahrain pokes it head above the dusty desert dunes to the west of Manama.

Much of the fortress dates from a 6th century citadel that was used by the Portuguese but some of the larger mounds that have been excavated show that the site was occupied as far back as 2,300 BC. If you are a history buff then this is definitely one place in Bahrain not to miss.

13. Al Areen

The area of Al Areen is covered in hotels and boutique resorts, but accommodation is not the only thing that it has to offer.

Instead, it is also known for its wildlife reserve which sprawls over seven square kilometers and is nestled in the southwest of Bahrain.

Here you will find a wealth of fauna including Arabian camels, springbok, Nubian gazelles, and Arabian Oryx.

There are also Middle Eastern falconry shows held here regularly.

Saar is close to Manama but also far enough away to give off a peaceful and less hectic atmosphere.

The area is known for the summer houses of the rich and famous of Bahrain but this is not the only thing of note here.

The area is also known for its delicious cafes and coffee houses as well as a host of fine dining options.

If you are looking for some historical sites, then you will also find these in Saar in the form of early Dilmun settlements which are famous for their metalwork and copper ore artifacts from millennia gone by.

The island of Sitra sits in the Persian Gulf and is located on the eastern edge of Bahrain.

The island is used by oil companies as well as local fisherman, so it is an interesting place to witness two sides of Bahrain working in unison.

There are agricultural villages here like Al Kharijiya and Mahazza and you can also use this spot as a stepping stone to the Al Dar archipelago which has palm-fringed beaches and little seaside eateries galore.

15 Best Places to Visit in Bahrain:

• Amwaj Island
• Hawar Islands
• Qal’at Al Bahrain