Bahrain’s Hidden Gems: A Guide to 15 Remarkable Spots to Include in Your Itinerary

Bahrain is teeming with undiscovered treasures ready to ignite your sense of adventure. From vibrant culture to ancient heritage and pristine coastlines, Bahrain offers an extraordinary experience for newcomers and residents alike!

Join us as we explore Bahrain’s hidden treasures, where extraordinary experiences await!

Bab Al Bahrain

Image Credits: Michal Rudziecki

Bab Al Bahrain, erected in 1949, is an iconic historic landmark. It once overlooked the sea and played a vital role in Bahrain’s trade. Behind it lies Manama Souq, a bustling maze of shops selling textiles, spices, incense, handicrafts, and more—a cultural treasure trove!

Bahrain Bay

Image Credits: Sudhir Ramchandran

Bahrain Bay has left its mark on the island’s skyline, seamlessly merging tradition with modernity. Beyond its iconic architectural wonders, it offers water activities too! Whether you love the contemporary or classic, Bahrain Bay has it all.

Bahrain International Circuit

Image Credits: Bahrain International Circuit

For motorsports enthusiasts, the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir is a must-visit. Hosting Formula One Grand Prix races since 2004, it’s a thrill-seeker’s paradise. In the off-season, enjoy karting, Hummer rides, and test drives on the F1 track!

Bilaj Al Jazayer

Image Credits: Theodoros Bafitos

Bilaj Al Jazayer in Zallaq, the sunset beach, is a slice of beach paradise. Catch the waves, surf through them or relax by the water, where golden Bahraini sunsets paint the sky.

Block 338

Image Credits: Tourism Bahrain on Facebook

Block 338 is an entire neighbourhood in Bahrain dedicated to a diverse array of restaurants and diners. It’s a food lover’s paradise, a culinary enclave that showcases Bahrain’s diverse gastronomic scene. Suit your palate!

Bu Maher Fort

Image Credits: Abdullah Minhas

Bu Maher Fort, accessible by boat from the Bahrain National Museum, marks the starting point of Bahrain’s famous Pearling Path. Built in 1840, this fort is steeped in pearling history, offering a gateway to Bahrain’s pearling legacy.

Pearling Path – Muharraq

Image Credits: Mustafa AbdulHadi

Walking through this impressive town and its narrow lanes, you will encounter restored traditional Bahraini houses, each narrating stories of the rich history of pearl trading, architecture, culture, and traditions of Bahrain. 

Qal’at al-Bahrain 

Image Credits: bibinbabay

The Bahrain Fort – Qal’at al-Bahrain, towering at 39 feet, holds evidence of human settlements spanning over 4500 years. Rediscovered by Danish archaeologists in the 1950s, it became central to Bahrain’s identity as a trade hub and earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 2005. Explore the fort, visit the museum, or relax at the seaside café, all steeped in Bahrain’s history.

RAK Art Foundation

Image Credits: RAK Art Foundation

The Rashid Al Khalifa Art Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering artists worldwide. It resides within a converted traditional Bahraini house, where Rashid Al Khalifa, a practising artist, art patron, and collector, was raised. The foundation showcases hundreds of international works of fine and decorative art, along with camera and film equipment, furniture, and interior design.

Manamat Al Gosaibi

Image Credits: Nour El Refai

Manamat Al Gosaibi pays homage to Saudi Arabia’s Dr. Gazi Abdul Rahman Al Gosaibi. This traditional Bahraini house, nestled in Manama’s Fareej Al Fadel, celebrates Al Gosaibi’s legacy as a reformist, minister, ambassador, and advocate of art and culture.

Dilmun Burial Mounds

Image Credits: Michael Runkel

The Dilmun Burial Mounds, scattered across Bahrain’s landscape, stand as a testament to the island’s rich and ancient heritage. These burial sites, dating back thousands of years, provide a unique window into the history of the Dilmun civilization. Visitors can explore these meticulously constructed mounds, each with its own story to tell, offering a fascinating glimpse into Bahrain’s distant past.

Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre

Image Credits: culturebah

The Al Jasra Handicrafts Centre is a vibrant hub that showcases the artistic prowess of Bahrain’s local talents. Here, visitors have the opportunity to witness traditional crafts being crafted by skilled artisans. The centre not only preserves Bahrain’s cultural heritage but also offers a range of exquisite, handcrafted treasures for visitors to discover and take home.

Hawar Islands

Image Credits: Astrid Veerkamp

Escape to the serene Hawar Islands, a natural paradise nestled just off the Bahraini coast. These pristine islands are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and beachgoers alike. Amidst the tranquillity, visitors can spot migratory birds, soak up the sun on pristine beaches, and partake in various water activities in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands.

Arad Fort

Image Credits: nsviews

Arad Fort, a historical gem in Bahrain, provides a captivating journey through time. Dating back to the 15th century, this fort exemplifies traditional Bahraini architecture and offers a unique perspective on the island’s history. Exploring its intricate design, learning about its historical significance, and taking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape make a visit to Arad Fort a must.

Barbar Temple

Image Credits: miroktravel

The Barbar Temple complex is an archaeological wonder that unveils the secrets of Bahrain’s ancient past. With roots dating back to the Dilmun era, these temples provide compelling insights into the island’s role as a centre of trade and culture. Visitors can wander through the remarkably preserved ruins and immerse themselves in the enigmatic allure of Bahrain’s history.

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