Bahrain Travel Guide

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Accommodation

When it comes to finding accommodation in Bahrain, there are a variety of options available. You can explore the bustling capital of Manama, with its modern hotels and resorts, or stay in one of the many beachside properties dotted around the island. Bahrain offers a range of accommodations, from luxury villas to basic hostel-style rooms, so you can find something that suits your needs.

In this section of the Bahrain Travel Guide, we will discuss the different types of accommodation available in Bahrain and provide tips and advice on where to stay.

Hotels

The many hotels in Bahrain offer visitors a full array of accommodation options. You will find something to suit every taste and pocket, from beachfront resorts to international business and luxury properties, budget-friendly inns, boutique hotels, and private villas and apartments.

Five-star resorts are located throughout the islands, particularly on popular Muharraq Island. Here you’ll find elegant hotels such as The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa, Four Seasons Bahrain Bay, offering a spa and outdoor pool, the Sheraton Bahrein Hotel & Resort, and multiple beachfront resorts for those looking for comfort in a prime location.

Serviced apartments provide spacious facilities with hotel-like amenities such as 24/7 reception service or daily housekeeping for travelers looking for mid-range options. Many are located close to shopping malls or popular attractions within the Kingdom.

Budget travelers may take advantage of the economy hotel chains dotting the country, such as Ibis chain hotels, Ivy Boutique Hotels, and Luxury Suites Bahrain, with rates as low as $50 per night. Hostels are also gaining popularity among adventurers who prefer to have fun without breaking their wallets!

Serviced Apartments

Bahrain offers travelers and visitors various accommodation options, from luxury hotels and beach resorts to spacious serviced apartments.

Serviced apartments offer visitors the freedom of short-term stays with the bonus that all the necessary amenities are included in the rental cost, allowing for more convenient living during an extended stay.

Serviced apartments in Bahrain have one-, two- or three-bedroom options and typically include:

  • A fully equipped kitchen (microwave oven, stovetop, refrigerator)
  • Furnished living spaces (bedrooms, sitting areas)
  • En-suite bathrooms
  • Laundry facilities (washer/dryer)
  • 24-hour security
  • WiFi access

Some apartments may also offer additional perks, such as swimming pools, personal fitness trainers, and private balconies with views of Bahrain’s waterfront cityscape. Depending on your budget, you can rent a basic studio or a luxurious penthouse unit at some of Bahrain’s most prominent locations.

Offering unrivaled convenience and comfort for those planning extended stays in Bahrain or those seeking to be close to malls or beaches – serviced apartments provide a home away from home with all the luxuries you want while traveling abroad!

Hostels

Hostels are the perfect option for budget-conscious travelers looking for a basic place to stay. Hostels in Bahrain offer beds and facilities, such as shared kitchens and bathrooms, at a fraction of the cost of a hotel room. When staying in a hostel, you’ll have the opportunity to meet fellow travelers worldwide, so it’s an ideal choice if you want to socialize.

In Bahrain, many hostel options are available, ranging from luxurious four-star hostels with air conditioning to more basic rooms for those on a shoestring budget. Most hostels in Bahrain are located centrally, close to attractions, shopping centers, and cafes for easy access during your stay.

If you plan to stay in a hostel during your visit to Bahrain, you should look for additional services such as free WiFi or breakfast in your booking rate. Also, ensure that an official rating is indicated (0 stars being hostels with basic amenities while five stars indicate premium luxury). Some of the most popular hostels in Bahrain include The Kings Hotel Hostel in Manama, Sunshine Hostel in Adliya, and Natura City Hostel on Muharraq Island.

Transportation

When traveling to Bahrain, one of the most significant considerations is transportation. The transportation system in Bahrain consists of both public and private options. Buses, rental cars, and taxis can take you to various destinations. In addition, the ferry service links the country with other GCC countries, and there are several airports in Bahrain, with the main airport being the Bahrain International Airport.

In this section, we will explore all of the transportation options available in Bahrain:

Airports

Bahrain International Airport is located in Al Muharraq and is the primary hub for the Kingdom of Bahrain. In addition, it offers flights to nearby countries and international destinations such as London, Tokyo, Toronto, and Paris.

For passengers looking to travel within Bahrain, Gulf Air and Bahrain Air provide air services between Manama, Hafar Al-Batin (Saudi Arabia), and the outlying areas such as Muharraq and Abu Dhabi (UAE).

Due to its strategic location within the Gulf region, Bahrain serves as a hub for international traveling. The easiest way to get around is by taxi, with rates ranging from inexpensive local transport to more expensive rides from one city to another. Taxis can also be hired for longer periods at fixed rates for sightseeing purposes. Additionally, most major hotels offer car rental services with chauffeurs or van services providing comfortable transport from one place to another. Bus transport is also regularly available from Manama to other cities in Bahrain; however, advance reservations are recommended for longer trips outside Manama city limits.

Public Transportation

Public transportation, served by the national bus network, is one of the most affordable and convenient ways to get around Bahrain. The bus system comprises small buses called ‘servis,’ which travel on- and off-road in designated lanes and regular bus routes connecting major cities.

Buses run from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m., with slightly extended hours on Fridays and public holidays. Single fares start at 0.7 BHD ($1.90), depending upon the route. Still, tickets can be purchased at all onboard vending machines for daily or weekly short-trip tickets that offer discounts on multiple rides within their validity periods. Shared taxi services are also available in some areas, and they can be cheaper than taking a service or bus in some cases, depending upon your distance and destination; sharing with other passengers usually costs around 2 BHD ($5).

Taxis are plentiful throughout Bahrain, with most offering customers reasonable rates—usually pooled among passengers—and early-morning pickups upon request (fees may apply). These comfortable vehicles are typically white four-door sedans with amber lights on the roof; however, it’s important to clarify the cost before committing to any ride, as driver fees can vary from car to car (and meter readings will not always be used).

Taxis

Taxis are a popular form of transportation around Bahrain, though somewhat pricy when the distance from your destination is considered. However, most taxi companies in Bahrain now have radio-dispatched cabs, so you don’t need to worry about finding a driver. Generally, taxis will facilitate up to four passengers in one ride and charge per person, taking the combined fares for your one-way journey. Private taxi services are also available for rent hourly or daily.

Cabs are recognizable by their yellowish-brown color and must be metered unless otherwise agreed upon before service. Bahraini metered taxis have their rates set by the municipality and sometimes offer discounts during peak travel hours. Drivers speak English, and there should be no issues conversing with them – be sure to ask when they’re turning on the meter so you know what fare comes to at the destination.

Attractions

Bahrain has a wide variety of fascinating attractions that can draw in both tourists and locals alike. Bahrain has something to offer everyone, from archaeological sites to historic buildings and beautiful beaches.

In this section, we’ll take a look at the different attractions in Bahrain and what makes them special:

Museums

Museums are a major draw for tourists in Bahrain, whether those travelers seek to understand the island nation’s culture and history or just want a break from the heat of Bahrain weather. From traditional structures that feature pottery and other artifacts related to the country’s origins to elaborately designed spaces dedicated to the artwork and modern innovations, Bahrain’s museums have something for everyone.

The Bahrain National Museum is the largest in Bahrain and one of the island’s top attractions. The museum includes two important galleries: the Islamic Arts Gallery and the History Gallery, which both include interactive displays related to different aspects of life in this tiny nation. Additionally, there are spectacular interactive exhibits from several eras, including Ancient, Biblical times, through 19th Century kingships, up through independence in 1971.

Al Fateh Grand Mosque is another compelling museum in Manama’s Diplomatic Quarter. This building was once a mosque but has been converted into an impressive glass-and-steel structure with intricate structural designs highlighting different figures, such as peacocks and trees from regional Arab culture. The display pieces include ancient artifacts such as coins and pottery and other interesting pieces that give visitors insight into historical Islamic figures such as Abu Sinan Al Halabi (271-331 CE).

The Manama Arts Center is located in central Manama near the Al A’ali Shopping Complex for visitors who want art instead of history. This large complex houses visiting street artists who come from around the world to showcase their work at this creative venue. In addition to traditional artwork, such as modern sculptures created with metal constructions or delicate glass structures housed inside galleries filled with intricately crafted textured ceiling tiles, visitors can also watch street performances put on by local musicians or theatrical professionals from around Bahrain every few months or so as part of ongoing series’ hosting public events related to music, dance or theatre performances for tourists’ enjoyment year round.

Historic Sites

Bahrain is an ancient land with centuries of history, and if you’re looking to take a trip back in time, there’s no better place to visit than the small island nation. Here are some of the top historical sites you can explore:

  • Al Fateh Grand Mosque – Al Fateh is one of the largest mosques in the world, over 200 years old, and with a capacity for over 7 thousand worshippers. Its space comprises six huge domes and houses one of the world’s biggest Islamic libraries.
  • Lapis lazuli House – Set within a former local ruler’s palace, this immensely ornate house is full of lapis lazuli tiles decorated with beautiful artworks depicting life at the court and various other crafts and arts during the 19th century Bahrain.
  • Al Khamis Mosque – Al Khamis mosque stands out among all other religious sites in Bahrain due to its location – it’s situated amidst two burial mounds that date back to the 8th century or even earlier. This mosque was restored several times throughout its lifetime and today serves as a veritable beacon of Islamic religious practices, filled with faithful worshippers throughout most days.
  • Tree Of Life – A prominent symbol in Arabian mythology and Islamic tradition, The Tree Of Life has stood tall in Bahrain’s desert setting since 1850 AD. It is said that water still flows around it despite being surrounded by a dry environment for thousands of years, resulting in just enough fertility for this tree to show off new leaves each year like clockwork until the modern day!

Shopping

Shopping can be an opportunity to buy traditional souvenirs such as teapot sets and pearls or enjoy the vibrant local shops. Whether you’re shopping for clothes, jewelry, electronics, or hand-crafted items, Bahrain has a variety of attractive markets to offer.

One of the best places to shop is in Manama Souq, located near Bab Al Bahrain and Government Road in the city center. Several small retail outlets sell everything from clothing, perfume, and textiles to electronic items. Handicraft stalls also line Manama Souq displaying pottery and antiques. You can find traditional items and modern products in this cultural melting pot of a market; bargaining is a must here, so make sure you get your hands on some great deals!

For luxury shopping, visit the Bahrain City Centre Mall, opened by the Crown Prince of Bahrain in 2008. This spectacular shopping center houses over 400 retail outlets, including designer labels Gucci, Versace, Armani, and many luxury cafes and restaurants.

Al Aali Shopping Complex houses over a hundred upscale stores offering world-renowned brands such as Yves Saint Laurent, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Cartier to cater to all your shopping needs. This complex, accessed by public buses or private taxi services, attracts locals and visitors with its beautiful architecture that features Muslim artworks within its landscape design.

The Private Markets (Lulu & Haraj) feature trendy chic stalls offering traditional high-quality merchandise ranging from traditional Dhahana clothing to carpets and handicrafts, reflecting the spirit of an ancient era of craftsmanship. In addition, these markets also offer convenience stores stocking all kinds of snacks, stationary & home supplies at very affordable prices, making it ideal for bargain hunters’ delights!

Food & Drink

Bahrain is home to an array of cultures and cuisines, from traditional Bahraini dishes to global influences from all over the world. As a result, there is something to suit all tastes, from various street food options to elegant and luxurious restaurants. In addition, Bahrain boasts a range of locally brewed beers and wines, as well as classic cocktails and mocktails.

In this section, we will explore all the food and drink options available in Bahrain:

Local Cuisine

Bahrain’s local cuisine is a unique blend of markets serving all street food, restaurants, fast food, supermarkets, and traditional eateries. Like the country’s culture, Bahraini food is a mash-up of Middle Eastern, Indian and Persian dishes flavored liberally with herbs and spices. Strong Arabic influence gives Bahraini dishes their exotic flavors – expect plenty of olives, tahini, and sumac.

The signature dish in Bahrain is machboos, a fragrant saffron rice usually cooked with an array of meats ranging from beef to chicken to fish. All types of seafood come highly recommended in the island nation – Bahraini lobster is especially worth searching out!

Other dishes such as khubz (Arabic flatbread), hummus (chickpea dip), tabbouleh (finely chopped salad), and falafel (fried chickpea balls) are staples on every menu.

Local desserts like Kunafa(pastry filled with gooey cheese) dumplings soaked in rosewater syrup could have you sweet-toothed travelers swooning over their unique flavors!

Restaurants

With its diverse mix of cultures, Bahrain offers a variety of cuisines and dining experiences. From traditional biryani to Mexican burritos and sushi, there’s something for every palate and budget. Whether it’s the luxury of the 5-star restaurants or the delicious street food of India and Pakistan, visitors will be swept away by all that Bahrain has to offer.

Some excellent international restaurant chains are available in Bahrain, including TGIFriday’s, Outback Steakhouse, Burger King, McDonald’s, and KFC. There are also plenty of restaurants serving up traditional Bahraini cuisine like khazi (lamb cooked with veggies in an earthen pot), Harees (wheat boiled with meat for hours until it is a paste), and hareesa (a tart made from dates). Further afield, there are Lebanese shawarma joints, Indian sweet shops, and Chinese takeaways to explore.

For those looking for something special, there are several high-end establishments on Bahrain�s Southwest Coast close to the Manama skyline that offer magnificent views of the sea and an exquisite range of gourmet dishes prepared by world-renowned chefs. Food enthusiasts must not miss out on the capital Manama’s Suq waikeh – here, you can explore genuine traditional culinary fare served in a rustic atmosphere.

No matter your preference or budget, travelers will be left spoilt for choice regarding food & drinks when they visit Bahrain!

Bars & Nightlife

Bahrain’s vibrant and lively nightlife is filled with fun and entertainment, where you can find dozens of bustling bars and clubs in the cities, especially in Manama. Thanks to recent renovations in Bahrain, quality booze is available in most bars and clubs. The dress code is relaxed during the summer but becomes more conservative during Ramadan and the colder winter months.

Here are some of the best bars and nightlife spots around Bahrain:

  • Tap East – Located within Adliya’s MODA Mall, Tap East serves a wide range of international beers on tap and traditional pub food, making it the perfect hangout spot for a casual beer after work or on weekends.
  • Xplode – Xplode is one of the biggest nightclubs in Manama, with three floors and live DJs spinning music dance floors all night long. This venue also doubles up as a Harley Davidson bar and organizes frequent events with international visitors performing onstage.
  • Club 88 – One of Manama’s most popular nightclubs boasting four dancefloors featuring EDM, hip-hop, and RnB, as well as live band performances every week Friday night. Club 88 also has an extensive selection of drinks from its adjoining sports bar that plays non-stop sports matches throughout the day and night.
  • Jenna Lounge – Located at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa, this contemporary lounge is known for its lively atmosphere with regular live band performances from international acts every month. Visitors can enjoy delicious cocktails by top mixologists alongside small bites for dinner or snacks afterward.

Safety & Security

Bahrain is a generally safe place for travelers to explore. The country has a very low crime rate and is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East. However, be aware of your surroundings, observe basic safety precautions, and adhere to local laws and customs.

In this section of the Bahrain travel guide, we will take a look at the safety and security situation in the country:

Visas

Visas are required for all visitors to Bahrain, although the rules have become more relaxed recently. Visitors from most countries can obtain a visa on arrival without prior application, while those from some countries must apply in advance. The visa issued is usually valid for 30 days and may be extended upon request at a local Immigration Office.

Entry into Bahrain must be through an official designated port, such as the airport or seaport. All visitors who meet certain requirements can receive visas free of charge at any port of entry or designated embassies abroad and will usually require the following documents:

  • Valid passport with an endorsement for travel to Bahrain
  • Confirmed roundtrip airline ticket
  • Letter from employer stating the purpose of visit and guaranteeing financial responsibility, if needed
  • Hotel reservation and/or sponsor verifies residence address if staying with friends or family/hosts.

A non-refundable fee may also be applicable depending upon nationality and length of stay. Although rarely enforced in practice, travelers entering Bahrain are advised to carry a minimum amount of cash; this amount varies depending upon nationality, rule changes frequently, and new regulations may apply.

Crime & Scams

Traveling to Bahrain can be a safe and enjoyable experience, but tourists should take additional care to protect themselves against crime and scams. Bahrain’s foreign ministry warns travelers of controversial behavior and encourages visitors to familiarize themselves with local laws and customs.

Generally, tourists should:

  • Stay in well-lit areas at night.
  • Be wary of pickpockets in public places.
  • Keep their passports on them at all times.
  • Secure valuables in hotel safes during the day.
  • Never accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended.
  • Avoid areas where there is known drug trafficking.

It is best to use machines inside banks instead of stand-alone ATMs, which scammers may target. It is also important for tourists not to let their guard down when using a bartering system for goods or services. Tourists should always ensure they are not scammed by checking prices beforehand and dealing with trustworthy suppliers.

When driving through Bahrain, it is essential for drivers to observe speed limits, as speed traps are common throughout the country.

Emergency Services

Emergency services in Bahrain are generally reliable, and medical treatment is of a high standard. It is worth noting that most medical facilities, medications, and personnel speak English in Bahrain.

Dial 999 for Ambulance services in an emergency requiring urgent medical attention. The call will be answered in Arabic, so it is essential to make it known that the reason for the call is an emergency.

In case of a fire or accident, dial 997 to report it to the local fire department or police. Also, be aware that police officers do not always speak English, so if you are unsure how to report an event, take someone who speaks Arabic with you.

For non-urgent legal matters, you may:

  • Contact the local police station on 1775 8888.
  • Contact your embassy/consular office abroad through its 24/7 emergency helpline before departing your country of origin.