Ready to go off the beaten track and explore one of the best-kept secrets of the Middle East? Enter Bahrain, a small island country located in the Arabian Gulf, abundant in history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. And the best part: surprisingly, it’s very cheap!
You may well be thinking, as the broke backpacker, that you won’t be able to afford Middle Eastern jaunt. Yet, surprisingly, Bahrain is. Accommodation is available from as low as US$10 a night; meals from US$3; attractions from US$5—so you can experience this interesting country for very little.
In this blog, we’ll help you make the most out of your budget holiday to Bahrain. From ancient forts and mesmerizing mosques to pristine beaches and relishing street food, we show you our top tips and tricks to experience the best of Bahrain without overspending.
So if you’re ready to venture off the beaten path and discover a destination that’s still off the radar for many travelers, join us on this journey through Bahrain. Your wallet – and your sense of adventure – will thank you!
How to get there:
From Saudi Arabia:
- Bus: Take the SAPTCO bus from Riyadh, Dammam, or Khobar to the Saudi-Bahrain border. Then, transfer to the Bahrain Public Transport bus to Manama.
- Train: No direct train from Saudi Arabia to Bahrain. Take a train to the border, then transfer to a bus or taxi.
From Qatar:
- Bus: No direct bus from Qatar to Bahrain. Take a bus to the Qatar-Bahrain border, then transfer to a taxi or bus.
- Flight: Take a short flight from Doha to Manama.
From United Arab Emirates (UAE):
- Bus: Take the Al Ghazal bus from Dubai or Abu Dhabi to the UAE-Bahrain border. Then, transfer to the Bahrain Public Transport bus to Manama.
- Flight: Take a short flight from Dubai or Abu Dhabi to Manama.
From Oman:
- Bus: Take the ONTC bus from Muscat to the Oman-Bahrain border. Then, transfer to the Bahrain Public Transport bus to Manama.
- Flight: Take a short flight from Muscat to Manama.
When to go:
Weather:
- Winter (December to February): Mild temperatures (15-20°C/59-68°F), ideal for outdoor activities.
- Spring (March to May): Pleasant temperatures (20-25°C/68-77°F), perfect for sightseeing.
- Summer (June to September): Hot temperatures (35-40°C/95-104°F), best for indoor activities or beach relaxation.
- Autumn (October to November): Warm temperatures (25-30°C/77-86°F), suitable for outdoor activities.
Events and Festivals:
- Bahrain Grand Prix (March): Formula 1 racing event.
- Bahrain International Music Festival (October): Cultural event featuring local and international musicians.
- Hajj Season (varies): Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, affecting travel and accommodation.
- Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha (varies): Islamic holidays, affecting travel and business hours.
Tourist Season:
- Peak season: December to April, with higher prices and larger crowds.
- Off-season: May to November, with lower prices and smaller crowds.
Ramadan:
- Holy month: Usually falls in May or June, with changed business hours and cultural events.
Best Itineraries:
2-Day Itinerary:
Day 1:
- Explore Manama Souq
- Visit Al Fateh Grand Mosque
- Walk along the Bahrain Corniche
- Stay at a budget hostel
Day 2:
- Visit the Bahrain Fort
- Explore the National Museum
- Try traditional Bahraini street food
4-Day Itinerary:
Day 1-2: Follow the 2-day itinerary
Day 3:
- Take a bus to the ancient fort of Arad
- Visit the Tree of Life
- Enjoy the beach at Al Jazayer Beach
Day 4:
- Explore the traditional village of Muharraq
- Visit the Sheikh Isa Bin Ali House
- Enjoy a traditional Bahraini dinner
1-Week Itinerary:
Day 1-4: Follow the 4-day itinerary
Day 5:
- Take a bus to the Saudi-Bahrain border
- Explore the border town of Sakhir
- Visit the Bahrain International Circuit
Day 6:
- Visit the Al Areen Wildlife Park
- Explore the Bahrain Fort’s archaeological site
- Enjoy a relaxing evening at a budget-friendly cafe
Day 7:
- Take a bus to the city of Riffa
- Explore the Riffa Fort
- Visit the Bahrain National Theatre
2-Week Itinerary:
Day 1-7: Follow the 1-week itinerary
Day 8:
- Take a bus to the island of Muharraq
- Explore the Muharraq Souq
- Visit the Sheikh Ebrahim Center
Day 9:
- Visit the Bahrain Maritime Museum
- Explore the Bahrain Fort’s museum
- Enjoy a traditional Bahraini lunch
Day 10-14:
- Continue exploring Bahrain’s culture, history, and natural beauty
- Take day trips to nearby attractions
- Enjoy the local cuisine and hospitality
Transportation:
Buses:
- Bahrain Public Transport: Operates an extensive network of buses across the kingdom.
- Routes: Cover major cities, towns, and villages.
- Frequency: Buses run every 10-30 minutes, depending on the route.
- Fare: Payable by cash or rechargeable cards.
Bus Routes:
- Manama: Connects to major cities like Riffa, Muharraq, and Hamad Town.
- Riffa: Links to Manama, Isa Town, and other nearby areas.
- Muharraq: Connects to Manama, Riffa, and nearby islands.
Other Transportation:
- Taxis: Widely available, but more expensive than buses.
- Uber: Operates in Bahrain, offering a convenient alternative.
- Car Rentals: Available for those who prefer to drive.
Maps and Resources:
- Bahrain Public Transport website: Offers route maps, schedules, and fare information.
- Google Maps: Provides accurate directions and public transportation options.
Top things to do:
- Explore Manama Souq: Wander through the bustling marketplace and experience local culture.
- Visit Al Fateh Grand Mosque: Marvel at the stunning architecture and learn about Islam.
- Walk along the Bahrain Corniche: Enjoy the scenic views of the Arabian Gulf.
- Discover the ancient fort of Arad: Uncover Bahrain’s rich history.
- Relax at Al Jazayer Beach: Soak up the sun and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
- Visit the National Museum: Learn about Bahrain’s history, culture, and natural environment.
- Try traditional Bahraini street food: Savor local flavors at affordable prices.
- Explore the traditional village of Muharraq: Experience Bahrain’s heritage.
- Visit the Sheikh Isa Bin Ali House: Discover Bahrain’s royal history.
- Attend a festival or event: Bahrain hosts various cultural and sporting events throughout the year.
- Visit the Bahrain Fort’s archaeological site: Uncover the fort’s ancient secrets.
- Explore the Al Areen Wildlife Park: Spot local wildlife and enjoy the scenery.
- Visit the Tree of Life: Marvel at the mysterious tree’s beauty.
- Walk through the Adliya neighborhood: Discover Bahrain’s bohemian vibe.
- Visit the La Fontaine Centre of Contemporary Art: Explore local art and culture.
- Relax at the Bahrain International Circuit: Watch motorsports or attend a concert.
- Explore the Riffa Fort: Uncover Bahrain’s military history.
- Visit the Sheikh Ebrahim Center: Learn about Bahrain’s cultural heritage.
- Attend a traditional Bahraini wedding: Experience local customs (if you’re lucky!).
- Take a stroll along the Budaiya Highway: Enjoy the scenic views of the Arabian Gulf.
Festivals and events:
- Muharram: Islamic New Year, celebrated in January
- Ashura: commemorates the martyrdom of Hussain ibn Ali, observed on the 10th day of Muharram
- Milad Al Nabi: honors the birth of the Prophet Mohammed, celebrated in April
- Independence Day: marks Bahrain’s independence from Britain, celebrated in June
- Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr: Ramadan is the holy month of fasting, and Eid Al Fitr is a three-day celebration
- Bahrain Summer Festival: an annual event with an exceptional program of local and international events
- Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition: an annual exhibition showcasing local artists’ work
- Bahrain International Music Festival: a festival featuring local and international music performances
Nightlife:
When the sun dips into the Persian Gulf, Bahrain’s capital of Manama seems to buzz like a beehive. The neon lights of the central districts of Adliya and Juffair blink alluringly, stirring up merrymakers into a life full of bars, clubs, and lounges.
From sophisticated rooftop bars to underground music clubs, Bahrain has something for every taste. Be it its cosmopolitan crowd of expats, locals, and travelers alike, this battalion converges into these hotspots in the evening, creating an ambiance that is as friendly as it is contagious.
In Adliya, the trendy Bahraini version of Dubai’s Downtown, slick bars like the Domain Hotel’s Vertical and the Ritz-Carlton’s Kahraman shake up sublime cocktails against a backdrop of sleek, modern decor. These suave hangouts lure a fashionable crowd, which is eager to see and be seen.
Head to Juffair, and the mood shifts. Pubs, clubs, and live music spill out of every corner of this expat ghetto, each with a vibe of their own. British-themed JJ’s and Sherlock Holmes are low-key and laid-back spots, a haven for any sports enthusiast and beer aficionado.
In addition to these established areas, there are some hidden treasures to be found. Underground music venues, such as independent art space Malja’, showcase Bahrain’s thriving alternative scene. Resident DJs and bands take center stage, letting loose genre-bending performances that marry traditional Khaleeji rhythms with global influences.
The nightlife of Bahrain isn’t restricted to the urban centers. Beach-side resorts like the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq host full-moon parties and outdoor concerts, drawing partygoers to the stunning shores of the island.
Sure, Bahrain’s nightlife may not match the glitzy flair of Dubai nor the frenetic dynamism of Beirut, yet it has an appeal all its own. The night scenery on this tiny country tells something about the cultural stew that is Bahrain: Islamic traditions, Arabic hospitality, and expat influences make for a heady mix that blends in perfect harmony.
The Bahrain night air sizzles with promise. Whether you’re into swank, imagination, or just a little something to get you mingling, this Gulf nation’s after-dark world will give you an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion:
Bahrain, offers a rich and diverse experience for travelers. From its ancient forts and mosques to its modern malls and nightlife, there’s something for every interest and budget. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a thrill-seeker, Bahrain has plenty to offer.
For broke backpackers, Bahrain is an ideal destination, with affordable accommodation, transportation, and activities. With some planning and research, you can have a fantastic time exploring this beautiful country without breaking the bank.
In this guide, we’ve covered the best things to do and see, festivals and events, nightlife, and tips for traveling on a budget. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a few weeks, Bahrain is sure to leave a lasting impression.
So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the hidden gem of the Arabian Gulf – Bahrain!
