Top 5 Places to Visit in Bahrain

The ancient Kingdom of Bahrain, the land of Dilmun, is one of the world's oldest merchant trading nations. Even in the 21st century, the islanders, justifiably proud of their rich heritage and traditions, still regard themselves to be part of a trading society. With tiny towns and villages dotted around the island still securely preserved, vibrant Bahrain boasts several fascinating spots, each with its own distinctive community to explore. Whether it's a taste of local life you are after, or a wish to stock up on idiosyncratic knick-knacks and souvenirs, make sure your stay here sees you venturing away from Manama. The manageable size of the island makes it easy to navigate, so you've no excuse not to get your hands on that perfect palm basket or the most magical of Persian carpets.

  1. Grand Mosque

    2. An impressive sight indeed, the Al Fateh Islamic Centre (Grand Mosque) has the sought-after distinction of being crowned with the world's largest fibreglass dome. Exquisite architecture and Arabic design make it as breathtakingly beautiful inside as out. Capable of accommodating up to 7,000 worshippers, the island's largest mosque also houses the Religious Institute for Islamic Affairs. Visitors should dress modestly, and are required to remove their shoes and cover their heads upon entering the mosque.

    King Faisal Highway in Juffair. Open At all times, except during prayer time.

  2. Al-Areen Wildlidfe Park

    3. This wildlife park is about 20km out of the city, and home to many species of gazelle and oryx that are extinct in the wild; it's worth making the trip out here just to catch a glimpse of these elusive beasts.

    South of Manama in the village of Zallaq (17 836 116). Open Sat-Thu 8am-5pm; Fri 2pm-5pm. Cost BD1 for adults, 500 fils for children under 15, and free for children under three.

  3. Bahrain Fort

    4. Originally the capital of Dilmun, this is one of the most important ancient civilisations of the region, containing the richest remains inventoried of this period, previously only known from written Sumerian references. The fort consists of a mound created over hundreds of years by different settlers to the area. The mound is 300x600m and forms the base of a 12m high Portuguese Fort. The fort, or qal'a, was used as a military base for Portuguese operations during their occupation of Bahrain in the 1500s. Authentically restored and very well maintained, it is worth visiting for both its impressive stonework and for the wonderful views over the city.

    Karbahad village. Open At all times. Cost Free.

  4. Arad Fort

    5. First built in the 15th century, one of Bahrain's ancient forts, which, historically is the most significant, Arad was extensively rebuilt in the 1800s during the Omani occupation of Bahrain and became the central hub of military operations at this time. Situated on the island of Muharraq, joined to the mainland by the Sheikh Isa bin Salman Causeway, the Arad Fort craft bazaars with children's rides and traditional music are often held in the forecourt of the fort on Thursday and Friday afternoons.

    Island of Muharraq (17 672 278).Open Sun-Wed 7am-2pm; Thu & Sat 9am-6pm; Fri 3pm-6pm. Cost Free.

  5. Hawar Island

    6. For those experienced sailors wanting to venture out to sea, Hawar Island, south east of the mainland, is an eye-catching retreat with its own hotel resort and watersports equipment for hire. For those less nautically inclined, 45-minute boat trips to Hawar Island depart daily from Ad-Dur Jetty. Approaching the islands, the flat appearance of the main island obscures the fact that a line of broken cliffs faces much of the eastern shore and the island's eastward protruding headlands. These characteristic cliffs are only found on Al Hajiyat, Wakur and Umm Hazwarah. The remaining islands are low and flat, some a little more than sand accumulations barely a metre above the sea.

    Boats depart from Ad-Dur Jetty (17 290 377). Open Daily 10.30am, 2.30pm and 4.30pm.