What are the best things to do in Manama?
Top picks in Manama include Bahrain National Museum, Bab Al Bahrain, Al Fateh Grand Mosque, Bahrain Fort (Qal'at al-Bahrain). See the full list and itinerary on this Manama travel guide.
🇧🇭 Bahrain travel guide
Asia · Western Asia
Manama Travel Guide
Things to do in Manama — Explore Manama
Photo: Wadiia · CC BY-SA 4.0
Why visit Manama
Manama emerged as the capital of independent Bahrain after periods of domination by Portugal and Persians. Today, it is a modern capital with an economy based on the sales promotion industry as crude oil takes a less pronounced role in the economy. (Source: Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA.)
Manama is a stop in Bahrain, not a country-in-a-weekend. Plan about 2 days. If time is short, prioritise Bahrain National Museum, Bab Al Bahrain, Al Fateh Grand Mosque instead of racing the whole list. Mid-range ground costs are about 90–200 USD per person per day, excluding international flights. Best time: November–March for cooler, drier conditions. Rankings, stay length and cost bands on this page come from Global Itinerary’s trip-planning models.
Best time
November–March for cooler, drier conditions
Weather
Varies from tropical to temperate depending on the season
Experiences
Things to do in Manama
1
Bahrain National Museum
2
Bab Al Bahrain
3
Al Fateh Grand Mosque
4
Bahrain Fort (Qal'at al-Bahrain)
5
Manama Souq
6
Tree of Life
7
Amwaj Islands
8
Beit Al Quran
Budget travel
Free things to do in Manama
Al Fateh Grand Mosque
Barbar Temple
Mostly free or pay-what-you-like — always double-check opening times and any seasonal fees before you go.
Plan your trip
Manama itinerary (2 days)
- 1
Day 1
Icons & landmarks
- Visit Al Fateh Grand Mosque
- Visit Bahrain National Museum
- Visit Bahrain Fort
- Eat at Al-Abraaj
- 2
Day 2
Culture & neighborhoods
- Visit Bahrain Fort Museum
- Visit Barbar Temple
- Visit Adhari Park
- Eat at Al-Suraj
Prefer a full 13-day trip with costs and FAQs? Read the Manama itinerary guide.
Budget
Manama trip cost
Budget
USD 40–70
per person / day
Mid-range
USD 90–200
per person / day
Luxury
USD 230–380+
per person / day
Typical on-the-ground spend in Manama, Bahrain. Hostel/guesthouse + local meals ≈ budget; comfortable hotels + mix of dining ≈ mid-range; luxury hotels and fine dining ≈ luxury. Figures exclude international flights.
Trip budget estimator
Typical mid-range for Manama
Estimated total (USD)
$2,705
≈ $1,353 per person · $386 per day group total
Ground costs ≈ $145/person/day (lodging + food + transport + activities)
Defaults match Manama mid-range ground costs (budget 40–70 · mid 90–200 · luxury 230–380+ USD/day). Edit freely — flights vary by origin.
Where to eat
Local favourites
Al-Abraaj
Perfect introduction for non-Arab folks to become accustomed to the Middle Eastern hospitality charm. Food is generous and tasty, and primar
Al-Suraj
The second-best shwarma in Bahrain for only 300 fils.
Habara Snacks & Fish
Great diner that cheerfully serves cheap fish and chips and other assorted snacks.
Bahay Kubo
Traditional style Filipino restaurant for dine in, take out and delivery. Bahay Kubo also offers a private function room with karaoke
Café Lilou's
Paris style interiors, popular with ex-pats and locals. Excellent French-café fare, including large salads and delicious cakes. Caters for g
Lanterns
An atmospheric Indian restaurant with great food and lovely decor next to Burgerland Roundabout in Budaiya.
Where to stay
Tourist favourites & top-rated
Al Burge Hotel
If cost is more important than comfort for you, then the BD 10 double room with bathroom should make you happy. Do not expect fancy stuff su
Awal Hotel
Located in the main commercial & business district, 10 min drive from International Airport and a short walking distance from the Bahrain se
Bahrain International Hotel
Three-star hotel that is of average quality, but in a convenient location for travellers. Free airport transfer, breakfast and wifi.
Gulf Gate Hotel
125 rooms and suites. Located in central Manama, the commercial centre of Bahrain. Cafés, a restaurant, night clubs and bar. 2 minutes walk
Al Safir Hotel
Standard rooms with a choice of twin or double beds. It offers comprehensive business and banqueting facilities, including the latest audio-
Shopping
- Manama Souq
- Al A'Ali Mall
- City Centre Bahrain
- The Bahrain Mall
- Dana Mall
- Marina Mall
Nightlife
- Digger's
- Golden Club
- Harvesters
- JJ's
- Sherlock Holmes
- Warbler's
Museums & culture
- Al Fateh Grand Mosque
- Bahrain National Museum
- Bahrain Fort Museum
- Barbar Temple
In pictures
Manama gallery
Photos: Wadiia, Zairon, Anthony DeCosta, Droodkin, Mohamsuraj — via Wikimedia Commons
Good to know
Manama travel FAQs
When is the best time to visit Manama?
November–March for cooler, drier conditions.
How many days do I need in Manama?
Plan at least 2 days in Manama for the highlights on our suggested itinerary; add more time for day trips.
Where should I stay in Manama?
Popular stays in Manama include Al Burge Hotel, Awal Hotel, Bahrain International Hotel. Book central areas if you want to walk to major sights.
How much does a trip to Manama cost?
On the ground in Manama (excluding international flights), budget travellers often spend about 40–70 per person per day, mid-range about 90–200, and luxury about 230–380+ (USD). Typical on-the-ground spend in Manama, Bahrain. Hostel/guesthouse + local meals ≈ budget; comfortable hotels + mix of dining ≈ mid-range; luxury hotels and fine dining ≈ luxury.
Keep exploring
