A Guide to Manama: What To Do in the Capital of Bahrain
Keen to find out about Bahrain’s capital but don’t know where to look? We’ve got you covered
Our comprehensive guide to Manama will take you on a journey through the must-see attractions and experiences, offering a fresh perspective on what to do in this enchanting city.
Venture into the heart of Manama and you’ll discover a vibrant capital city that effortlessly blends the old with the new. Here, modern skyscrapers stand tall against a backdrop of ancient traditions.
From happily getting lost among the winding streets of Manama souk to marvelling at the state-of-the-art World Trade Center that dominates the skyline, the city’s pulse is palpable and its charm undeniable.
Let’s get exploring.
Is Manama Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Manama offers visitors architectural wonders, historic sites, world-class shopping, a dynamic arts scene, and fantastic international cuisine to enjoy.
The capital of Bahrain is a city of contrasts where the past and the present coexist. Nothing showcases this more than the city’s skyline where stunning modern skyscrapers tower over traditional Bahraini houses.
But it’s not just the architecture that embodies this contrast. Manama’s culture is a beautiful tapestry of ancient traditions and contemporary influences.
The city’s souks, for instance, are a throwback to a time when trade was conducted in bustling marketplaces. Today, these souks remain a symbol of Manama’s lasting heritage, even as the city embraces modernity.
So, as you explore Manama’s attractions, remember to appreciate the city’s contrasts. They are, after all, what makes Manama so unique.
A Quick Guide to Manama’s Souks and Museums
At the heart of Bahraini culture, Manama’s souks and museums offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and dynamic present. Souks, with their narrow alleyways and busy stalls, are a feast for the senses.
Meanwhile, the city’s museums house treasures that tell the story of Bahrain’s past. From ancient artefacts to contemporary art, these museums are a history lover’s dream.
Manama Souk: A Tapestry of Sights and Scents
There are no two ways about it. Manama Souk is a must-visit. As cardamom chai scents fill the air, take a leisurely stroll around this bustling bazaar. Discover every spice you can think of, gorgeous jewellery, and handwoven fabrics in a riot of colours.
Find something that you simply must have? Haggle over the price as you take another bite of your tasty shawarma. Manama souk is the best place to sample local delicacies and get a feel for the heart of the city.
Bahrain National Museum: A Journey Through Time
Get your culture fix at Bahrain National Museum. The museum’s exhibits span thousands of years, from the ancient Dilmun civilisation to the modern era. You’ll be captivated by the archaeological finds, traditional crafts, and contemporary art displays.
It’s a place where you can step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of Bahrain’s rich heritage.
Architectural Marvels: Mosques and Forts
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or a history buff, Manama’s architectural landscape is sure to impress. Among the city’s most striking landmarks are its mosques and fort.
Al-Fateh Grand Mosque and Qal’at al-Bahrain are absolute must-see sights when staying in Manama.
Al-Fateh Grand Mosque: Astounding Islamic Grandeur
As you head to Al-Fateh Grand Mosque, prepare for your jaw to drop. One of the largest mosques in the world, it’s an iconic example of Islamic architecture.
Its vast prayer hall, which can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers, and its dome – one of the largest fibreglass examples in the world – have to be seen to be believed. And with Italian marble floors and Indian teak wood doors, the mosque is majestic in its scale and grandeur.
Open to visitors, the mosque offers a serene space for reflection and is a symbol of Bahrain’s deep-rooted faith.
Bahrain Fort: Echoes of Ancient Civilizations
Another historic wonder features in our Manama travel guide: Qal’at al-Bahrain.
It might be situated a 10-minute drive outside of the city, but Qal’at al-Bahrain – known as Bahrain Fort – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s well worth a visit.
Dating back over 4,000 years, the fort’s ruins tell the story of ancient civilisations that once thrived here. It’s easy to lose track of time and wander for hours among the excavated buildings of the ancient Dilmun Empire capital.
With an excellent museum and visitor centre attached, there’s plenty to see here.
Manama’s Modern Pulse: Skyscrapers, Cityscapes and Shopping
Manama’s skyscrapers stand tall as icons of the city’s ambition and its vision for the future. Whether you’re exploring the city by day or by night, these structures are sure to catch your eye.
Bahrain World Trade Centre: A Sustainable Icon
A visit to the Bahrain World Trade Centre means getting up close and personal with the modern innovative architectural marvels of the city. As the first skyscraper in the world to integrate wind turbines into its design, it harnesses wind power to generate electricity.
The centre’s novel design and green technology set it apart making it a beacon of sustainability in Manama’s modern skyline.
Bahrain Bay Activities
If you fancy viewing the Bahrain World Trade Centre from a different angle, why not head out on the waters of Bahrain Bay?
Surrounded by architectural wonders like the Four Seasons and United Tower, you could swap the crowds of the city for a kayak or paddleboard. Adventurous couples could even hire out a double kayak for a spot of one-the-water sightseeing. If this sounds a little too energetic, a more serene gondola ride along the bay at sunset might be more to your liking.
Shop at The Avenues
Loving Bahrain Bay but prefer to keep your feet dry? The Avenues is an out-of-this-world shopping destination with over 130 stores for you to mooch around at your leisure. Think top fashion labels, department stores, and perfumeries.
And when your legs are crying out for a rest, there are a whole host of dining options to satisfy every craving. From cakes to cannelloni and pizza to pilaf, the international cuisine choices are mind-bogglingly vast.
A Culinary Adventure: Tastes of Manama
Offering a smorgasbord of flavours – from traditional Bahraini dishes to international cuisine – Manama’s culinary scene is as diverse as its culture.
Experience the comforting warmth of Bahraini hospitality as you tantalise your tastebuds with authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Al Tawawish Cafe. Or soak up some gastronomic luxury at the Gulf Hotel’s Fusion by Tala restaurant where you can sample the exceptional cooking of Tala Bashmi, the top female chef in Bahrain. Softshell crab, seabass risotto, and prawn jireesh are just the tip of the culinary iceberg.
Food is a big part of Bahraini culture and it’s a great way to connect with the local traditions while enjoying Manama’s burgeoning culinary scene.
Where to Find the Best Machboos
You simply cannot visit Manama and not try machboos. This national dish of Bahrain is a one-pot chicken or meat and rice dish flavoured with a whole host of heady aromatic spices. Cloves, cinnamon, and black lime all feature heavily.
Head to the local restaurants to sample machboos in the most authentic way – served with a side of homemade yoghurt or salad. Every machboos is slightly different with the spice blend unique to families and cafes. So why not take a tour of Manama eateries to try and find your favourite?
Does Manama Have a Beach?
Being a modern capital city, you might assume Manama doesn’t have a beach. But it does. And it’s a stunner. Swaying palms, crystal clear waters, and powder soft sand between your toes make it feel like you’re a world away from a city.
Water Garden City Beach in the Seef district is just a 10-minute drive from the city centre and provides a laid back haven of relaxation where you can leave the urban hive of activity behind. Join a beach yoga class, hop on a jet ski for a rip-roaring ride across the sea, or simply relax on a lounger and take in the Manama skyline.
Manama After Dark: Nightlife and Entertainment
When the sun sets, Manama transforms into an exciting hub of entertainment.
From buzzing music venues to chic rooftop bars, there’s something for everyone. The Juffair district, known for its American influence, is particularly lively.
Whether you’re looking to dance the night away at Klub 360 or you want to enjoy a quiet drink with the skyline as your backdrop at Gallery 21’s rooftop bar, Manama has it all. Could there be a more perfect way to end a day of Manama exploration?
Getting Around Manama
Manama is a relatively compact city, making it easy to navigate. But if you have a few days of sightseeing planned, you’ll need to know how to get around. Here are your options:
Public Transport
Buses are very frequent and timetables are readily available. Pick up an electronic GO card for BD0.500, load some cash onto it, and then you’re free to access the bus network. Fares vary according to the zones you travel in.
Taxis
While not as readily available as in the UK, taxis are a convenient way to travel to attractions within and outside of the city. Fares begin at BD1.000
Hire a car
Car hire can be a great affordable option in Manama. With parking free across Bahrain, you’ll have the freedom to explore outside the city with ease. Car hire costs BD10-25 a day.
Walk
If you’re a seasoned walker, you’ll find Manama exceptionally walkable. You can walk from Manama souk to Bahrain National Museum in 45 minutes.
FAQs: What Do I Need To Know Before Visiting Bahrain?
What’s Bahrain like for a holiday? Before setting off on your Bahraini adventure, our guide to Manama features some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip.
What is the best time to visit Manama?
The best time to visit Manama is during the cooler months, from November to March.
What currency is used in Manama?
The Bahraini Dinar is the currency used in Manama. Credit cards are commonly accepted.
Do I need to know Arabic to visit Manama?
While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken. However, knowing a few Arabic phrases will help you get so much more out of your trip.
Ready to Visit Manama?
Top attractions, awesome food, and fascinating culture make Manama a magnet for holidaymakers looking for a unique experience that fuses tradition and modernity in the most spectacular way.
Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, culture vulture, thrill-seeker, or city-break aficionado, you can create memories in Manama that’ll last a lifetime.
Keen to explore more of this archipelago nation? Check out these awesome facts about Bahrain.
