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Manama is the capital of Bahrain and a busy financial and cultural hub. It is known for its modern skyline, traditional souqs, and historic sites. The city mixes old and new, with ancient forts next to shopping malls and skyscrapers. Visitors can explore local markets and museums or enjoy the lively nightlife. The city’s waterfront areas and restaurants make it a great place to experience Bahraini food and culture. To capture their trip memories, many tourists also take photos of the famous landmarks, such as Bab Al Bahrain and the Al Fateh Grand Mosque.
Location
Photo: B.alotaby / Wikimedia Commons
Manama is situated on the northern coast of Bahrain, an island country in the Persian Gulf. It is bordered by the sea to the north and lies close to Saudi Arabia to the west and Qatar to the southeast. As the capital of Bahrain, it serves as the country’s political, economic, and cultural centre. It benefits from its strategic location for regional trade and international connections.
How To Reach
Photo: Shibu Parambil Varghese / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The main airport serving Manama is Bahrain International Airport (BAH), located around 8 km from the city centre. It has direct flights from major cities like London, Dubai and Mumbai. Taxis and buses are available at the airport for convenient transfers to the city.
By Road: Public buses operate from different parts of Bahrain to this destination. The Bahrain Public Transport Company (BPTC) runs modern, air-conditioned buses connecting the airport and other cities to the capital.
By Rail: There is no railway network in Bahrain. However, visitors from Saudi Arabia can take a train to Dammam and then travel to this destination by road via the King Fahd Causeway, a 25 km bridge linking Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
Places To Visit In And Around Manama
This destination is home to historical sites, cultural landmarks, and modern attractions. Here are five must-visit places:
1. Bahrain National Museum
Photo: Zairon / Wikimedia Commons
Bahrain National Museum is the oldest and largest museum in the country. It was opened in 1988 and displays Bahrain’s history from the ancient Dilmun civilisation to the present. The museum has nine halls with artefacts that are over 4,000 years old. Visitors can see ancient burial mounds, traditional dhow boats, and exhibits on the pearling industry, which was once the backbone of Bahrain’s economy. The interactive sections help visitors understand local customs, from clothing to architecture. The museum also has a beautiful waterfront area where visitors can walk and enjoy views of the skyline.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
2. Bab Al Bahrain
Photo: Jan Michael Pfeiffer / Wikimedia Commons
Bab Al Bahrain, meaning “Gateway of Bahrain,” was built in 1945 and was once the main entrance to the city. It is an important historical landmark located at the heart of Manama’s old town. The structure has a mix of traditional and modern architectural styles. Today, it leads to the Manama Souq, a lively market where visitors can shop for Bahraini spices, pearls, perfumes, and carpets. The souq has many small restaurants serving traditional Bahraini dishes like Samboosa and Harees. The area around Bab Al Bahrain is always busy, making it a great place to experience the daily life of locals.
Timings: 24*7
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
3. Al Fateh Grand Mosque
Photo: Ahmed Sadoon / Wikimedia Commons
Al Fateh Grand Mosque is one of the biggest mosques in the world and can accommodate more than 7,000 worshippers at once. It was built in 1987 and named in honour of Ahmed Al Fateh, the founder of modern Bahrain. The mosque’s dome is made of fibreglass and is one of the world’s largest. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about Islamic culture and architecture. The interiors have beautiful calligraphy, Italian marble floors, and a massive chandelier from Austria. Non-Muslim visitors are also welcome to explore, and they can even try writing Arabic calligraphy.
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
4. Bahrain Fort (Qal’at Al – Bahrain)
Photo: Martin Falbisoner / Wikimedia Commons
Bahrain Fort, also called Qal’at al-Bahrain, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Bahrain’s most important archaeological sites. It was once the capital of the ancient Dilmun civilisation and has been a key trading post for over 4,000 years. Excavations have uncovered ruins of homes, temples, and military structures from different periods, showing how Bahrain’s history changed. Visitors can walk around the fort, explore underground chambers, and enjoy sea views. The site also has a small museum that explains the fort’s history with artefacts and models.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
5. The Avenues Mall
Photo: Droodkin / Wikimedia Commons
The Avenues Mall is a modern shopping and entertainment centre along the waterfront. It has a wide range of international brands, local boutiques, and restaurants serving cuisines worldwide. Families can enjoy indoor amusement areas like Magic Planet and VR gaming zones. The mall’s promenade is great for an evening walk, with seating areas overlooking the sea. Many visitors take boat rides from the mall’s private docking area. The Avenues is for shopping and relaxation, making it a popular hangout spot for locals and tourists.
Timings: 10 AM – 12 AM
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Where To Stay
Photo: lequangutc89 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
This destination offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. Some of the best hotels include The Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, and Wyndham Grand Manama. Budget travellers can find affordable stays in areas like Juffair and Adliya. Most hotels provide excellent amenities. These include free Wi-Fi, pools, and easy access to key attractions.
Where To Eat
Photo: Denise Krebs / Wikimedia Commons
The city has a diverse food scene, ranging from traditional Bahraini cuisine to international options. Try authentic local dishes like Machboos (spiced rice with meat) at Haji’s Café or enjoy a mix of Arabic and international dishes at Villa Mamas. For fine dining, CUT by Wolfgang Puck offers premium steaks. Manama’s food options cater to all budgets, making it a great place for food lovers.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Zairon / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Manama is from November to March when the weather is cooler, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C. Summers (May to September) can be extremely hot, reaching 45°C, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. If you visit in winter, you can also experience Bahrain’s National Day celebrations in December.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Zairon / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average trip cost depends on your budget and preferences. A mid-range traveller might anticipate spending around 50 BHD / ₹11,000 daily, covering accommodation, food, transport and sightseeing. Luxury travellers may spend upwards of 100 BHD / ₹22,000 daily. Moreover, budget travellers can manage with 30 BHD / ₹6,500 by staying in affordable hotels and using public transport.
Tips For Travellers
- Bahrain is a conservative country, so respect the traditions and local customs, especially in public places like malls and mosques.
- Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
- Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are common. Public buses are also available.
- While Bahrain is modern, dressing modestly in public places is recommended.
- The weather in Bahrain can be hot, so carry water and stay hydrated, especially during the summer.
Manama has something for everyone, from history and shopping to cultural experiences and modern entertainment. It is a great destination for travellers who want to see Bahrain’s past and present in one place. The city’s lively atmosphere, traditional markets, and famous landmarks make it a memorable place. Plan your trip now with TripXL for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Cover Photo: Afsal Shaji / Unsplash
