Manama
Visited in April 2010
At a glance
- Country
- Bahrain
- Region
- Capital Governorate
- Population
- 297,502
- Best time to go
- November to March
- Main airport
- Bahrain International (BAH)
- Coordinates
- 26.22°N, 50.58°E
Country visited City visited Still to go Click a pin or country to read more. Zoom with + and −, a double-click or a pinch.
Overview
Manama is the capital of the island kingdom of Bahrain, a compact city of glass towers, old souqs and seafront promenades on the Gulf. Bahrain has been a trading hub since the ancient Dilmun civilisation, and pearling made its fortune long before oil.
It is more relaxed than many Gulf cities and easy to explore in a few days. Mix museums and markets with long dinners in Adliya and a trip across to historic Muharraq.
Things to see
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Photo: Anthony DeCosta, CC BY 2.0 Bahrain National Museum
An excellent introduction to Dilmun burial mounds, pearling and traditional island life, on the waterfront.
Tickets and tours -
Photo: Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0 Bab Al Bahrain and the souq
The old gateway leads into the Manama souq, a warren of gold, spice, fabric and perfume shops.
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Photo: XIDME, CC BY 4.0 Al Fateh Grand Mosque
One of the largest mosques in the region, with a huge fibreglass dome; non-Muslim visitors are welcome on guided visits.
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Photo: Martin Falbisoner, CC BY-SA 4.0 Qal'at al-Bahrain
A UNESCO-listed fort built on layers of ancient settlements, with a museum and sea views.
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Photo: Unknown photographer, CC BY-SA 3.0 Bahrain World Trade Center
Twin sail-shaped towers joined by wind turbines, a modern landmark of the skyline.
Things to do
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Photo: Zairon, CC BY-SA 4.0 Walk the Pearling Path
A trail through old Muharraq linking merchants' houses and the seashore, part of a UNESCO site.
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Photo: Planet Labs, Inc., CC BY-SA 4.0 Bahrain International Circuit
Home of the Bahrain Grand Prix in spring, with track experiences at other times of year.
Find tours -
Photo: കാക്കര, CC BY-SA 3.0 Tree of Life
A lone mesquite tree that has survived for centuries in the desert in the south of the island.
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Photo: CIA World Factbook, Public domain Dinner in Adliya
The city's best area for independent restaurants, cafés and galleries.
Where to stay
Seef
Modern hotels and shopping malls on the western waterfront.
Hotels in SeefJuffair
Lively, with many hotels, restaurants and bars.
Hotels in JuffairAdliya
Smaller and more characterful, handy for eating out.
Hotels in Adliya
Getting around
There is no metro, so taxis and ride-hailing apps are the easiest way to get around. Buses cover the main routes.
The airport is on Muharraq island, around 15 to 20 minutes by taxi from central Manama.
When to go
November to March is warm and sunny. Summers are extremely hot and humid, often above 40°C.
Plan your trip to Manama
- HotelsBooking.com
- Tours and ticketsGetYourGuide
- FlightsKiwi.com
- Attraction ticketsTiqets
- Airport parking, lounges and transfersHoliday Extras
- Car hireAuto Europe
- Mobile data (eSIM)AiraloCode DAN9406 for money off
- GuidebooksAmazon
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Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.