What to do in Bahrain

Where? Bahrain

Location? Bahrain is an archipelago of islands in the Middle East. I visited the main island Manama, where the capital is located.

It is surrounded by the waters of the Persian Gulf. With Saudi Arabia to the west and south and Qatar to the east.

Why? I was invited on a press trip with Bahrain tourism to come and sample some of the hidden gems that the island known as the ‘pearl of the Middle East’ has to offer.

Ad press trip

If you’re looking for a new destination which is less commercial, more elegant and unspoilt than Dubai, then definitely try Bahrain! And it has year round sunshine, great beaches, culture and fantastic food.

Where To Stay?

We stayed at The Four Seasons Bahrain and the Ritz Carlton Bahrain. For more luxury hotels to in Bahrain click this link.

Bahrain is a destination which far surpassed my expectations. I loved the culture, the luxury experience, the traditional juxtaposed with modern and the kindness of the people!

For a holiday I would recommend a few days, perhaps 4-5 nights for a trip to Bahrain. That’s a good amount of time in which to appreciate some of the local culture and also have a chance to relax at the beautiful luxury hotels too.

What to do in Bahrain

Pearl Museum and Pearling Path

Bahrain pearling Path and Pearl Museum is a world Heritage site which celebrates Bahrain’s economic history as one of the world’s largest  producers of pearls in the 19th century.

The area has been preserved and highlights the regions history by showcasing the original oyster beds, buildings and a museum exhibiting some of the most beautiful pearl jewellery and artefacts in the world.

The whole area has a calming, serene atmosphere and a great way to spend the morning learning about Bahrain’s culture.

Also pop into the basket weavers this area to see this ancient artisan tradition. Learn how the weavers create basketwork and also buy some beautiful handicrafts.

Sunset View and Boat Trip from Bu Maher Fort

Bu Maher Fort in the pearling area is a spectacular location from which to see the Bahrain sunset over the water.  Visit the fort to find out about the history, or sail aboard one of the original pearling boats.

Pearl Diving

For those with an adventurous spirit you can even go pearl diving from one of the boats in the oyster beds with a local pearl diver. This trip is so much fun with the official divers who know the area so well and the best spots from which to dive. No equipment needed apart from a snorkel.

Bahrain F1 International Racing Circuit

We had a thrilling day at Bahrain F1 International racing circuit. It started out with a Jeep safari and off roading experience which was not for the faint hearted.

And then we were allowed access to the F1 racing circuit, paddock and stands. We visited the F1 Tower where we could see the entire track.

We also visited the hall of fame filled with photographs and memorabilia of Formula One drivers who have driven the circuit. This is a must for F1 fans.

Visit The Souk Al Manama

The Souk Al Manama in the centre of Bahrain is the heart and soul of the country. Visit the bazaar area in the day and do the food tour to sample some of the incredible local Arabic dishes with a guide.

Or visit in the evening when the locals go to shop and socialise. The souk is filled with artisan gift shops and handicraft boutiques. This includes everything from gold, spices, colourful fabrics to the magical lantern shops as made famous on Instagram.

Visit Al Fateh Grand Mosque

No visit to Bahrain is complete without a morning at the Al Fateh Grand Mosque. This incredible feat of Arabic architecture is not only a beautiful site to visit. It’s also a fully working mosque and the religious heart and soul of Bahrain where practicing Moslems come to pray and learn. You must be fully covered up in order to enter, they do provide tourists with suitable clothing if needed.

Dinner at Roka Restaurant

Bahrain is filled with fantastic world class restaurants from across the globe. One of the latest imports to the Bahrain luxury food scene is Roka.

This iconic Japanese sushi restaurant, as seen in London and Dubai, serves up epic sushi as well as DJs and vibes which will have you partying and dining into the early hours, with the Bahrain jet set.

Beach Days Solymar Beach Club

And let’s not forget the beach. For those who are  looking for party, beach club vibes, a la Ibiza, head to Solimar Beach club. Here you can spend the day sunbathing, sipping cocktails by the sea, and enjoying an al fresco dinner and dancing to DJs playing house music. We left our heels by our beach beds and partied the night away, dancing on the beach.

And finally…

I love Bahrain as a destination which hosts everything from ancient traditions and culture, through to modern hotels, restaurants and beach clubs.

I had so much fun on this trip. It felt like going back to Dubai, perhaps 20 years ago when it was less busy, the roads had less traffic but the activities and restaurants on offer are luxurious and modern. It’s a great new alternative to Dubai and Qatar.

Have you been to Bahrain? Would you like to go?

If you enjoyed my blog on what to do in Bahrain, please leave a comment below and let me know.
For more of my recent travels from Dubai, or Qatar click this link.
And to book the best hotels in Bahrain click here.

Bon voyage, Bonnie xx