1 destination · 10 things to do

Bahrain

Bahrain is the Gulf's smallest kingdom and one of its oldest settlements: an archipelago where a Bronze Age capital, a pearl-diving coast and a glass-towered Manama sit within a short drive of each other. This guide books Bahrain for the traveller who wants the real thing rather than the mall. It starts with the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the sea-facing Bahrain Fort, the oyster-bed trail of the Pearling Path in Muharraq and the Dilmun story told in the Bahrain National Museum, then adds the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, the Beit Al Quran, a food tour through the lanes of Manama Souq, the lone Tree of Life in the desert, a half-day desert drive, a private boat day to Jarada Island and a full-day guided circuit for anyone short of time. Then it matches you to the right base, from the Four Seasons on its own island at Bahrain Bay to a boutique hotel a short walk from Bab Al Bahrain, the grand old Gulf Hotel in Adliya, a garden-style tower in Juffair and a smart budget address in the Diplomatic Area. Bahrain is compact, easy to drive and best in the cooler months. Always check your government's current travel advice before you book.