Pearl diving in crystal clear oceans, exploring ancient forts, relaxing on white sandy beaches or attending thrilling Formula 1 races; Bahrain is the island destination that has it all. Experience year-round sunshine, fascinating history, a melting pot of cultures and people and a wealth of activities. Here are the best things to do in Bahrain, so you can explore everything this multilayered and multicultural destination has to offer…
Experience the Island Lifestyle
Bahrain is the only island nation in the Middle East, making it the ideal destination for island hopping, watersports and boat trips. The warm waters of the Arabian Gulf invite you to relax on picturesque shores, paddleboard on the turquoise sea or hire a boat to enjoy the 33 islands. For those looking to enjoy a more secluded paradise, explore the incredible beach resorts such as The Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons Bahrain Bay or the Sofitel Thalassa Sea & Spa… Find our detailed tips for the best hotels in Bahrain below.
Things to do in Bahrain: Formula 1
Do you desire the need for speed? Then you should visit the Formula 1 track located at the globally acclaimed Bahrain International Circuit. Since hosting the first-ever Arabian F1 Grand Prix back in 2004, Bahrain has since become known as the “Home of Motor Sports in the Middle East”.
The Formula 1 Village hosts a variety of family fun, from spectacular animatronic life-sized dinosaurs, interactive sensory playgrounds, shows, workshops to breathtaking circuit acts throughout the three-day extravaganza. A must-do in Bahrain if you get the chance!
Soak Up the Local Culture
Bahrain is a fusion of ancient history, modernity and has historically been a stopover for travellers travelling from East to West. This is reflected in the cuisines, cities, people and culture. The Kingdom is the perfect blend of old and new – visitors can delve into 5000 years of Bahraini history, discovering the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and authentic souqs. You can also experience modern twists such as the National Museum and Theatre, where you can enjoy globally recognized exhibitions and performances all year-round.
Experience Eclectic Cuisines
The food scene in Bahrain is constantly evolving, especially as new restaurants open every day. From traditional Bahraini cuisine, fine-dining, to burger places. Bahrain’s food scene will satisfy any foodie traveller. Block 338 is a must-visit to get a real flavour of modern life in Bahrain. It is located in the capital’s trendy arts quarter, you can discover a wealth of rooftop restaurants, cafes, shops and al fresco dining. To experience a taste of true Bahraini hospitality, be sure to eat where the locals do. Favourites include Haji’s cafe, which offers traditional delicacies such as spiced biryanis, flatbreads, fresh fish and kebabs.
Things to do in Bahrain: Uncover the History
Did you know? Bahrain is home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites and has a history dating back to the ancient Dilmun civilisation. Discover the history of Bahrain by visiting the Dilmun Burial Grounds, the Bahrain Pearling Trail or Qal’at al-Bahrain (the Bahrain Fort). For an unforgettable experience, travel to the fort on horseback and finish your tour at a nearby beach for sunset.
Bahrain has a rich Arabic culture, which is reflected through its architecture, mosques and souqs. The impressive Al Fateh Grand Mosque can host up to 7,000 worshippers at one time and welcomes travellers to explore its magnificent architecture.
Pearl Diving in Bahrain
This has to belong to our list of the best things to do in Bahrain! Historically known as the centre of the world’s pearl trade, Bahraini pearls have long been considered the best in the world. Explore the UNESCO Pearling Trail and follow in history’s footsteps, visiting palaces and merchant houses, each one an opulent example of traditional Arabic architecture. Travellers can also try their hand at pearl diving, discovering the treasures in Bahrain’s turquoise waters and marvelling at the beauty of the oyster beds – any pearls you do find are yours to keep forever!
The best hotels in Bahrain
Hopefully, you really do know the best things to do in Bahrain. Let us show you some of the best hotels in Bahrain – for those of you who want to round off their trip to Bahrain with an unforgettable hotel stay!
Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay
The five-star luxury hotel is located in Manama. It has its own sandy beach, four restaurants, a spa and fitness centre, several swimming pools and from the outdoor terrace, you can enjoy the amazing panoramic views of the Manama skyline.
The Art Hotel & Resort
The five-star The Art Hotel & Resort is located Amwaj Islands. Here you can directly enjoy the crystal clear water of the Arabian Gulf. It has a fitness centre and you can treat yourself in the spa. For the children, the hotel has something special to offer: its very own waterpark where the kids can play and enjoy their day. The hotel also has different restaurants.
Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa
In the five-star Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, wellness fans will be in heaven! The thalassotherapy spa complex offers a huge variety of treatments. Seawater-based, hydrotherapy, massages, wellness and more. But that’s not all. Treat yourself in one of the five restaurants, or go to the hotel owned beach club, which includes tennis & squash courts as well as golf.
Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain
The Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain is another five-star hotel and is also one of the top-rated hotels by our customers who visited the Kingdom of Bahrain. Here you can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and restaurant. And for the young guests, the hotel offers a kids club and has its own playground.
The Merchant House
The Merchant House is another highly rated five-star hotel. The modern & elegant city hotel is equipped with a sun terrace with a swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, a restaurant, a bar and a garden. The rooms are all fitted with a seating area.
The Ritz-Carlton
The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain is located on the Manama seafront. It features its own tennis courts at the beach as well as an air-conditioned squash court. The spa offers a variety of beauty treatments, swimming pools, a restaurant, a bar and several designer boutiques.
Are you ready to discover the best things to do in Bahrain, the hidden pearl of the Middle East? What are you waiting for?!
