Things to Do in Manama: Culture & Nightlife

The capital of Bahrain, Manama, is a lively city where the past and the present fuse together. During the day, tourists can visit ancient places, go to the busy markets, and see modern art, then at night, they can enjoy the rooftop bars, lounges, beaches and music venues. This city shows a great combination of the old and the new; thus, it provides different types of experience to the travelers from going to markets full of spices and handicrafts to enjoying high-class dining in the trendy neighborhoods. People who want to immerse in culture or have fun in the nightlife, Manama offers a wonderful mixture that appeals to different tastes and ages. Explore more engaging reads on our Top Stories section.

Cultural Highlights

• Bahrain National Museum: A museum that is very fundamental to see, it displays 6,000 years of the history of Bahrain through a wide variety of archaeological artifacts, local crafts, and chance to handle-plus-visit exhibits. It reveals the island’s ancient Dilmun civilization and Islamic heritage more profoundly.
• Manama Souq and Bab Al Bahrain: Get to know the lively Manama Souq with its energetic atmosphere and colorful shops, among them selling gold, textiles, perfumes, and souvenirs. Bab Al Bahrain, the historic souq entrance, is a well-known place among photographers and is to become a metro interchange soon.
• Al Fateh Grand Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world, it is not only remarkable for its gorgeous and spectacular Islamic architecture but also because it allows free tours to visitors, except on Fridays, thereby promoting understanding of local traditions and faith.
• La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art: The center is in a historic building and offers art lovers the opportunity to witness cultural exhibitions, open-air amphitheater events, and fine dining, all in one place.

Read Also: Manama, Bahrain airport car rental lists

Nightlife & Entertainment

• Block 338, Adliya: Having the status of Manama’s nightlife district, it is a place where you can find the most cafes, bars, and restaurants with vibrant atmospheres, live music, and international cuisines. Locals and tourists can enjoy the warm and friendly atmosphere together.
• Rooftop Bars & Lounges: There are many rooftop locations in Manama that provide great views of the whole city along with trendy cocktails and eclectic music which makes it a perfect place for relaxed social evenings.
• Family Fun Spots: For kids, Al Areen Wildlife Park and Adhari Theme Park are very giving places where they can spend all day long, while the Lost Paradise of Dilmun waterpark will provide them with the most thrilling water experiences.

Local Cuisine and Shopping

Make sure to try the traditional Bahraini foods like Machboos of Bahrain and others in the restaurants of Manama as well as visiting the Moda Mall for luxury shopping. The markets and the malls characterize the blending of the traditional with the cosmopolitan and offer everything from handicrafts to luxury brands.