Manama mixes old Arabian culture with modern architecture. You will find historic markets, important religious buildings and a lot of good food, and most of it is close enough to walk to or reach by a short drive.
Here are seven places we would include in a first visit, in the city and just outside it.
1. Bab Al Bahrain (Manama)
The historic gateway to Manama Souq and one of the city's best-known landmarks. It is the meeting point for our evening walk and our food tasting walk, so it is a good place to start.
2. Manama Souq (Manama)
Shops selling spices, perfumes, textiles, jewellery and souvenirs. The Gold Souq is the best-known part. Take your time in the lanes and enjoy them without feeling pressed to buy.
3. Al Fateh Grand Mosque (Manama)
One of the country's most important religious and architectural landmarks. For non-Muslim visitors it is open from 9 am to 4 pm, Saturday to Thursday. It is closed to non-Muslim visitors on Fridays.
4. Bahrain National Museum (Manama)
A clear introduction to Bahrain's history, from its earliest settlements onward. The museum is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your day around that. Our private 7-hour tour includes the museum entrance ticket.
5. Bahrain Fort (Qal'at al-Bahrain, a short drive from the city)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with important archaeological remains. The museum on the site is closed on Mondays. Official UNESCO page for Qal'at al-Bahrain: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1192
6. A'ali Pottery and Burial Mounds (a short drive from the city)
Traditional pottery and ancient burial mounds in one area. A'ali is outside the city, so the easiest way to get there is with a tour or your own transport.
7. The modern skyline (Manama)
Manama's towers look especially striking in the evening. The contrast between the historic sites and the new city is one of the best parts of a visit. The Bahrain World Trade Center is a short photo stop on our private 7-hour tour.
Explore Manama with a local guide
A knowledgeable guide helps you understand the stories behind the landmarks. High Sky Travels & Tourism runs private city tours and guided sightseeing trips. You can book online and pay cash on arrival.
Book a tour
You can book these tours online and pay cash on arrival.