Welcome to “48 Hours In Bahrain: The Ultimate Weekend Escape” – your passport to a whirlwind adventure in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Nestled in the heart of the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain beckons with its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern charm. Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or simply in search of relaxation, this guide is your roadmap to making the most of your brief but unforgettable visit. Join us as we navigate the bustling souks, sample mouthwatering cuisine, and immerse ourselves in the sights and sounds of this dynamic island nation. So, pack your bags and get ready for a weekend filled with discovery, indulgence, and adventure in the enchanting Kingdom of Bahrain!
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Kingdom of Bahrain is a small island nation located in the Persian Gulf. With a total land area of just 765 square kilometers, it is one of the smallest countries in the Middle East. Despite its small size, Bahrain has a rich history stretching back over 5,000 years.
Archaeological evidence indicates that Dilmun, one of the most important ancient civilizations in the region, was centered in Bahrain. The Dilmun civilization thrived in the area between 3,000-330 BC as an important trading hub. In the 3rd century BC, Bahrain fell under the influence of Greek settlers. It later became part of the Persian Empire.
Islam arrived in the 7th century AD. Over the next several centuries, Bahrain was ruled by different Persian, Omani and Portuguese forces. In the late 18th century, the Al Khalifa family captured Bahrain and established it as an emirate. The Al Khalifa dynasty continues to rule Bahrain today.
Finally, gained independence from Britain in 1971 and became a constitutional monarchy. Politically, Bahrain is one of the more liberal countries in the Gulf region. However, political unrest has occurred over demands for democratic reforms.
Geographically, Bahrain consists of an archipelago of 33 islands, with the largest being Bahrain Island. The islands are located off the east coast of Saudi Arabia, connected via the 25km long King Fahd Causeway. Bahrain has a hot desert climate with very little rain. Temperatures range from 10°C in winter to over 40°C in summer. The land is mainly flat and rocky.
Popular Cities and Regions
Bahrain is an archipelago of many islands in the Persian Gulf, with most of the major cities located on the largest island, Bahrain Island. Here are some of the most popular cities and regions to visit:
Manama
Manama is the capital and largest city. It’s a modern, cosmopolitan city with a mix of traditional souks (markets), high-rise buildings, and shopping malls. The Bab Al Bahrain complex contains the iconic 8-pointed sail monument and overlooks the Manama Souq. Don’t miss wandering through the maze of alleyways here and bargaining for local spices, fabrics, gold, and pearls.
Muharraq
Muharraq is the second largest city, located northeast of Manama on Muharraq Island. It was Bahrain’s capital until 1923 and retains much of the country’s heritage and cultural sites. Visit the three interconnected Muharraq Souks for a traditional shopping experience. The city is also home to the iconic Arad Fort and the Sheikh Ebrahim Center for Culture and Research.
Riffa
Riffa is a city located in the center of Bahrain island, south of Manama. It contains the 400-year old Riffa Fort with its impressive architecture. The city has several shopping malls such as Riffa Views and Wadi Al Sail, making it a popular shopping destination. The Royal Camel Race Track is located here, hosting camel races from October to April.
Isa Town
Isa Town is a growing municipality located southwest of Manama. It contains modern amenities and attractions like the Bahrain International Circuit, which hosts the annual Bahrain Formula One Grand Prix. The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park is also a top attraction in Isa Town. For shopping, visit Dilmunia Mall, Seef Mall, or Dragon City mall.
Things to See and Do
Bahrain offers a wide variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From historical sites to modern entertainment, there’s something for everyone.
Bahrain National Museum
The Bahrain National Museum is one of the top attractions, providing an overview of Bahrain’s history and culture. Spread across two floors, the museum contains artifacts from ancient civilizations like the Dilmun era and displays showcasing pearling, arts, and crafts. Don’t miss the burial mounds located just outside the museum, which date back over 4,000 years.
Al Fateh Grand Mosque
Al Fateh Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in Bahrain and a stunning display of Islamic architecture. The huge dome and minarets are visible across the city. Visitors can tour the interior halls and chambers, which are ornately decorated with intricate carvings, chandeliers, and Quranic calligraphy. Make sure to dress conservatively when visiting.
Tree of Life
Located in the desert oasis of Sakhir, the Tree of Life is a 400-year-old mesquite tree that has become a surprising tourist attraction. Despite the harsh climate, the tree continues to thrive, standing alone in the desert sands. It’s a perfect photo-op for those looking to escape the city.
Shopping
From modern air-conditioned malls to traditional souks, Bahrain offers fantastic shopping opportunities. Head to the Bab Al Bahrain souk near the Manama harbor for handicrafts, spices, fabrics, and souvenirs. Upscale malls like City Centre and Seef Mall house international brands and designer boutiques. Don’t forget to bargain when shopping in the souks!
Dhow Boat Tours
To experience Bahrain’s maritime heritage, take a tour on a traditional dhow boat. These cruises allow you to relax aboard the handcrafted wooden boats and take in views of the Manama skyline. Many tours include stops at small islands for swimming and sightseeing. It’s a memorable way to explore Bahrain’s coastline and waters.
With ancient sites, modern malls, cultural attractions, and natural scenery, Bahrain has something to delight travelers of all interests. Don’t miss out on these top things to see and do when visiting.
Beaches
Bahrain is home to some beautiful beaches along its Persian Gulf coastline. Some of the best beaches to visit include:
Al Jazayer Beach – This long stretch of white sand beach located in Zallaq is one of the most popular beaches. The water is crystal clear turquoise and very shallow, making it excellent for swimming and water sports. There are plenty of facilities like changing rooms, showers, and lounge chair rentals. It gets very busy on weekends.
Coral Bay – On the northwest coast, Coral Bay has soft white sand and calm, shallow waters perfect for snorkeling over the colorful coral reefs just offshore. It’s a bit more low-key than Al Jazayer. Parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides are popular activities here.
Hawar Islands – Accessible by boat from Manama, the Hawar Islands are home to dozens of spectacular beaches with white sand and incredibly blue water. Each beach has its own personality. Some are busier with facilities while others are more remote and peaceful. Snorkeling and diving are fantastic thanks to the rich marine life.
Ritz Carlton Beach – Even if you’re not staying at the Ritz, the public is welcome to enjoy the silky sand beach adjacent to the luxury resort. Lie under a cabana or enjoy drinks at the beach bar. The waters are gentle with a sloping entry.
With so many options, Bahrain’s beaches have something for everyone whether you prefer an active beach scene or a quiet escape. The warm, shallow waters make them excellent for swimming, while the offshore reefs invite snorkeling and diving adventures.
Islands
Bahrain is home to several stunning islands that are popular destinations for tourists. Two of the most notable are Hawar Islands and Amwaj Islands.
Hawar Islands
The Hawar Islands are a group of islands located close to the southeastern coast of Qatar in the Persian Gulf. The islands are part of the Kingdom of Bahrain and make up the Hawar Islands Protectorate. The islands were the subject of a territorial dispute between Bahrain and Qatar that was resolved by the International Court of Justice in 2001.
The Hawar Islands are uninhabited, but are an important location for migratory birds. The islands contain shallow coral reefs, which attract divers to explore the marine life. Visitors can also go on scenic boat tours, go kayaking, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The Hawar Islands are a protected area, so a permit is required to visit.
Amwaj Islands
The Amwaj Islands are a group of man-made islands off the northeastern coast near Muharraq Island. The islands were built through extensive land reclamation and are now home to luxury residential properties, hotels, beaches, and marinas.
The Amwaj Islands have become a popular tourist destination in Bahrain. The islands boast beautiful beaches with golden sand and clear blue waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The islands also have many seaside cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy meals with scenic ocean views.
Some key attractions on the Amwaj Islands include The Lagoon waterpark, the Montazah Parks recreation complex, and the Meridian International Centre conference hall. The islands offer a relaxing beach holiday atmosphere conveniently close to downtown Manama.
Food and Drink
Bahrain is a food lover’s paradise, offering a delicious blend of Middle Eastern and international cuisine. The local Bahraini food is heavily influenced by other regional cuisines like Indian, Persian, and Arabian. Seafood is extremely popular here given the island nation’s abundant access to fresh fish and shellfish from the Persian Gulf.
Local Cuisine
Some dishes to try for a taste of authentic flavors include:
- Machboos – A traditional Bahraini dish of rice cooked with spices and meat, usually chicken or lamb. Often considered the national dish.
- Muhammar – Sweet rice pudding flavored with saffron and cardamom. Usually served with dates on top.
- Jareesh – A porridge-like dish made from cracked wheat, chicken, and vegetables. Has a creamy, comforting texture.
- Mahyawa – A tangy fish sauce made from fermented fish that is used to flavor dishes.
Staple Dishes
In addition to uniquely Bahraini specialties, there are some beloved staple dishes found across the Gulf region:
- Shawarma – Seasoned meat like lamb or chicken roasted on a vertical spit and shaved off to serve in a sandwich or with rice.
- Falafel – Fried balls or patties made from spiced chickpeas and fava beans. Often served in pita bread with hummus and vegetables.
- Kabsa – A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices and meat. Common additions include chicken, lamb, shrimp, fish, or vegetables.
Where to Try
Some top restaurants to sample Bahrain’s cuisine include:
- Bin Faqeeh – Upscale Bahraini food like machboos, muhammar, and seafood.
- Café Lilou – French-Bahraini fusion dishes alongside traditional fare.
- Nadan – Authentic Indian recipes with a Bahraini twist.
- Al Aker – Legendary spot for Lebanese classics like shawarma, hummus, and falafel.
Don’t miss trying the street food for snacks like sambousek (stuffed pastry) and lgeimat (batter fritters). The Manama Souq is a great place to wander for food stalls and eateries.
Shopping
Bahrain is a shopper’s paradise, offering traditional souqs, modern malls, local boutiques, and international brands.
Souqs
No trip to Bahrain is complete without visiting the souqs (markets). The most famous is the Gold Souq in Manama, where you can haggle for gold, pearls, and precious stones. The Bab Al Bahrain Souq near the Bab Al Bahrain gateway to the Manama harbor offers handicrafts, spices, fabrics, and souvenirs. Don’t miss the Muharraq Souq for antiques, textiles, and traditional Bahraini goods.
Malls
Bahrain has dozens of air-conditioned malls for one-stop shopping. Some of the largest are Bahrain City Centre, Seef Mall, Moda Mall, Dana Mall, and Dragon City. You’ll find major international brands alongside local boutiques. The malls also have food courts, cinemas, entertainment, and activities.
What to Buy
Good buys in Bahrain include gold, pearls, spices, dates, handicrafts, antiques, carpets, textiles, and traditional souvenirs. Gold is a specialty – haggle for 18k and 22k pieces. Pearls are also renowned, sold loose or as finished jewelry. Handicrafts like pottery, woodwork, and woven items reflect Bahrain’s culture. And don’t forget edible treats like dates, honey, and halwa sweets.
Accommodation
Bahrain offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Hotels
The main cities of Manama and Muharraq have many large international chain hotels like Four Seasons, The Ritz-Carlton, Sofitel, and Sheraton. These luxurious hotels offer well-appointed rooms, fine dining restaurants, pools, and spas. More affordable chain hotels include Holiday Inn, Best Western, and Novotel.
Independent boutique hotels can also be found, like the arty Retreat and the Bab Al Bahrain which is located in a historical building. Hotels are often conveniently located near the airport, main attractions, and shopping malls.
Resorts
For a relaxing beachside vacation, consider staying at one of Bahrain’s many beach resorts. The Ritz-Carlton and Sofitel both operate lavish resorts on the Amwaj Islands. The Diplomat Radisson Blu features a private beach and marina. Moda Spa has villas with private pools. The Gulf Hotel’s resort has a waterpark.
Budget
For budget travelers, Bahrain has many affordable hotels and hostels. Some popular options are the Delmon International Hotel, the Golden Tulip, and the Best Western Plus the Olive. Hostels like the Grand Baku and the Capital Hostel offer dorm-style accommodations.
Furnished apartments are an alternative to hotels. Airbnb also lists rooms, apartments, and villas for rent.
Getting Around
Bahrain has a modern and convenient transportation system that makes getting around easy for visitors. Public transportation, taxis, and driving are all viable options.
Public Transport
The public bus system in Bahrain is operated by the Bahrain Public Transport Company. Buses offer an affordable way to travel between major cities and attractions. Fares start around 0.5 BHD ($1.30 USD). Routes cover popular spots like Manama, Muharraq, Riffa, Isa Town, and more. Buses generally run from the early morning until evening.
A more upscale public transit option is the Bahrain Metro. This driverless metro system connects major areas of Manama. Fares are based on distance traveled. The metro can be faster than driving during rush hour.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available, especially in the cities. They can be hailed on the street, found at designated taxi stands, or booked by phone. Rates start at 1 BHD ($2.65 USD) and increase based on distance. Tipping is not required. Make sure to agree on the fare beforehand to avoid getting overcharged.
Driving
Having a rental car allows maximum flexibility to explore at your own pace. Driving is on the right-hand side. Road signage is clear and major highways connect regions. Gasoline is cheap at around 0.25 BHD ($0.66 USD) per liter. International driving permits are required for non-GCC visitors. Car rental agencies can be found at the airport and in major cities.
Driving does come with challenges like heavy traffic, impatient local drivers, and complex intersections. Using public transport or taxis to get around congested city centers is often easier.
Useful Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Bahrain is from October to April, when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is low. Winters are mild, with average highs of 75°F (24°C). Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 115°F (46°C).
- Visa requirements: Citizens of many countries, including the US, UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand and Canada can obtain a visa on arrival in Bahrain. The visa is valid for 14 days and costs around 20 BHD (53 USD). Make sure to have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
- Safety: Bahrain is generally a very safe country to travel. Violent crime is rare and tourists are unlikely to encounter any issues. However, you should still take normal safety precautions as you would anywhere else. Avoid walking alone at night, don’t display expensive items or valuables, and beware of pickpockets in crowded areas. As a conservative country, be respectful of local customs.
Conclusion
As your weekend escape to Bahrain draws to a close, take a moment to savor the memories of your whirlwind adventure in this enchanting kingdom. In just 48 hours, you’ve experienced the rich tapestry of Bahraini culture, from exploring ancient landmarks to indulging in delectable cuisine and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling souks. As you bid farewell to this captivating destination, remember that the spirit of discovery and adventure knows no bounds.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culinary connoisseur, or simply in search of relaxation, Bahrain has offered you a taste of its treasures and left you yearning for more. Until we meet again amidst the warmth of Bahraini hospitality, carry with you the echoes of laughter, the colors of tradition, and the promise of future adventures. Safe travels, and may your memories of Bahrain linger as a testament to the magic of your ultimate weekend escape.
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