Why go à Bahreïn?
The good reasons to go à Bahreïn
An exceptional heritage
One of the finest historical heritages in the region.
Permanent summer
In Bahrain, the sun shines more than 160 days a year. It's warm all year round.
An authentic country
Unlike neighboring emirates, the country's population is predominantly Bahraini.
Manama, a cosmopolitan city
In the archipelago's capital, the whole world has come together.
Sublime desert landscapes
In the south of the country, the desert is everywhere. Breathtakingly wild landscapes.
The land of pearls
Bahrain has long been renowned for producing some of the world's finest pearls.
The art of hospitality
Bahrain knows how to entertain, whether in luxury hotels or in the homes of local people.
In complete safety
A crime-free country? In the kingdom, you're (almost) always safe.
Formula 1
The kingdom is the first Arab country to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix!
A gastronomic paradise
In Bahrain, you can eat any cuisine in the world, at any time!
Good to know when visiting Bahreïn
Timetable
The vast majority of tourist sites are open from 8am to 6pm, and are also open at weekends. But beware: many close on Friday mornings so that employees can attend prayers.
To be booked
Although Bahrain has many tourist attractions, they are generally not very popular. Reservations are therefore not necessary. The only exception is a visit to the Al Fateh Mosque, which must be accompanied by a guide. So you may have to wait for one of them to become available.
Budget & Tips
Most tourist sites are free, as they are largely subsidized by the government. In some cases, such as the National Museum, entrance tickets rarely cost more than 1 BHD.
Main events
In Bahrain, life is punctuated by major religious celebrations, such as Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Shiite festivals like Ashura and Arbain. Their dates, set according to the Islamic lunar calendar, vary from year to year.
Guided tours
The easiest way to discover the country's tourist sites with a guide is to use a specialized agency. Visit Bahrain is a very competent agency.
Smokers
In Bahrain, smoking is prohibited in enclosed public places. Fines range from BHD 20 to BHD 50. Some restaurants have air-conditioned smoking areas. Outside, you can smoke almost anywhere, as long as you respect your neighbors.
Tourist traps
In Bahrain, some popular tourist sites can sometimes offer services or excursions at excessive prices, especially near busy areas such as Bahrain Fort or the souks.
What's very local
Although Bahrain is a Muslim country, it is possible to dress freely, as long as local customs are respected. During the day, it's advisable to wear clothes that cover the shoulders and pants, especially in public or administrative places. When going to the beach or out in the evening, there are no particular restrictions, as long as dress remains decent. On the other hand, to visit a mosque, proper dress is required: men must wear long pants, and women are sometimes required to don an abaya, often provided on site.
Find unique holiday offers with our partners
Discover Bahreïn
Bahrain has long remained a little-known destination, even neglected in favor of Dubai, Doha or Abu Dhabi. And yet, this archipelago between Qatar and Saudi Arabia is surprisingly rich in history and hospitality. Here, the remains of the Dilmun civilization rub shoulders with the lively lanes of the old souks, Portuguese forts, century-old mosques and the remains of the pearling industry. The kingdom has succeeded in modernizing while preserving its ancestral traditions. In Manama, the capital, skyscrapers stand side by side with old quarters where art galleries, cafés and restaurants from all over the world mingle. To prepare for the post-oil era, Bahrain is opening up to tourism. And the archipelago has plenty to tempt travelers: white-sand beaches, gastronomic discoveries and immersion in a history that goes back thousands of years. A well-kept secret in the Gulf, well worth a visit.
