A country like no other, Bahrain is an island nation where thousands of years of rich history lines the horizons with modern skyscrapers, offering an unparalleled combination of cultural adventures, entertainment options and leisure destinations. Though Bahrain is best explored during the months from November to February, the country does offer tons of exciting experiences all through the year. Whatever be your preferred form of relaxation or amusement, you’ll find it in the Island of Pearls.
If you’re out and about in Bahrain and wondering about what to do and where to go, and trying to choose from the plethora of equally exciting opportunities and choices available to you, we explore some of the best that the country offers both leisure tourists and hardcore travellers alike.
1. Wahooo! Waterpark
Wahooo! Waterpark is one of the most modern and futuristic waterparks in the Middle East. Spread over 15,000 square-meters, it comes packed with games, rides, slides, pools and more. Designed on a theme of “sub-tropical paradise”, the waterpark features a moored schooner at its heart. A great place for people from all age groups, the park has 30% outdoor and 70% indoor activities and assures a delightful experience in all weathers. Moreover, since it's a part of City Centre Bahrain, once you’ve had your fill of the waterpark, you can always bounce next door for a few hours of shopping, to catch the latest blockbuster or visit your favourite eat-out.
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Wahooo! Waterpark Bahrain
Location: City Centre Bahrain, Building 2758, Road 4650, Sh. Khalifa Highway, Manama, Bahrain
Phone: +973 1717 3000
Opening Hours:
11:00 AM - 09:00 PM (Thursday - Friday)
11:00 AM - 08:00 PM (Saturday - Tuesday)
11:00 AM - 04:30 PM (Wednesday)
5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Wednesday, Ladies Night)
Entrance Fees:
Above 1.2 m - BD 13
Under 1.2 m - BD 8.5
Under 3 years - BD 4
Disabled - BD 4
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WahoooWaterpark
Twitter: https://twitter.com/wahooowaterpark
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wahooowaterpark
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/wahooowaterpark
2. Magic Planet
As the name might suggest, this is a whole world of magical family entertainment. Magic Planet is packed with tons of exciting and engaging games, adventurous rides, and a futuristic 4D theatre. Whether you’re seeking a rush of adrenaline for the kids or for yourself, Magic Planet is the place to be.
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Children and parents at Magic Planet, City Centre Bahrain
Location: Level 2, City Centre Bahrain, Building 2758, Road 4650, Sh. Khalifa Highway, Manama, Bahrain
Phone: + 973 1717 3085
Opening Hours:
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Saturday - Wednesday)
10:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Thursday - Friday)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/magicplanetmena
Twitter: https://twitter.com/magicplanetmena
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magicplanetmena
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/Magicplanetdxb
3. Bahrain’s Mosques and Old Houses
Bahrain has a rich heritage and cultural history that has been preserved almost perfectly. This can be experienced in everything from the unique architecture of its century-old houses to the mosques and monuments oozing with tradition and religious significance.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bahrain Fort or the (Qalat al Bahrain) is considered to the site of the ancient capital of the Dilmun era. The site museum has 5 exhibition halls and houses artefacts reflecting the rich legacy and history of ancient Bahrain.
Delve further into the exquisite and fascinating history of Bahrain in the shade of buildings and historic monuments like Al Fateh Mosque, Abdullah Al Zayed House for Bahraini Press Heritage, and Kurar House.
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Al Fateh Grand Mosque in Manama
Location: Al Fatih Highway, Manama, Bahrain
Phone: +973 1772 7773
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Sunday - Thursday)
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Bahrain Fort
Location: Karbabad, Capital Governorate, Bahrain
Phone: +973 1756 7172
Opening Hours:
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (all 7 days)
4. Shop until you Drop
Bahrain, and especially Manama, is a shopper's paradise. This is true whether you're strolling through the many souks of Bahrain or through the magnificent malls spread across the country. Pay a visit to Bab Al-Bahrain Souk, a string of dainty yet memorable shops that line the streets behind Bab Al Bahrain (or the Gateway of Bahrain). The perfect place to stock up on souvenirs, the shops offer a true experience of the tradition and culture of the Arabian Gulf. Also, check out City Centre Bahrain. The largest mall in the country, it's packed with more than 340 exclusive brands outlets and 60 dining destinations. City Centre Bahrain is also home to famous hypermarkets like Carrefour, and many other fashions branding including Saks Fifth Avenue, Sacoor Brothers and Debenhams, an indoor-outdoor waterpark and a delightful family entertainment destination. So get out and get yourself some Bahraini retail therapy today.
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Manama Souk in Bahrain
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Shop & Win displays, fun, and games at the Central Galleria of City Centre Bahrain
5. The Azizia Bird Kingdom
The Azizia Bird Kingdom is a uniquely controlled ecosystem that's home to more than 70 species of birds from across the world and more than 500 in number. Some of these birds are critically endangered and have therefore been carefully bred and raised in captivity at the Azizia Bird Kingdom to aid in their conservation. The environment has been designed to not only provide a stimulating, engaging and fun experience for the whole family but also an educational one.
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Birds at the Azizia Bird Kingdom
Location: Jood, Amwaj Islands, Bahrain
Phone: +973 1603 0597
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM (Tuesday - Sunday)
Entrance Fees:
Adult - BD 1.5
Children - 500 fils
Website: http://www.birdskingdomamwaj.com
6. Nightlife in Bahrain
Bahrain, through all of its heritage and history, has a rich and happening nightlife. This is rather rare in the region and is helped by the rather relaxed rules in the country when compared to others in the Middle East. However, Bahrain's nightlife isn't just about pubs and bars but is brought alive by the must-see neighbourhoods, the exotic restaurants and the vibrant music scene. Check out W-Night at Bushido Lounge for the best ladies-night anywhere in Bahrain or Salsa night at Bizarre Lounge to dance the night away to Latin rhythms.
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Bushido Lounge, Manama
Location of Bushido Lounge: Building Nr 52, Road 38, Block 428, Seef Area, Kingdom of Bahrain
(to the right of Ritz Carlton Hotel)
Phone: +973 1758 3555
Opening Hours:
12:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Monday - Saturday)
12:00 PM - 12:00 AM (Sunday)
Website: http://www.bushido.com.bh
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Bushido973
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BushidoBahrain
So, if you're out in Bahrain with your friends or family and wondering what to do and where to go for a day of fun and entertainment, remember that there is something exciting and memorable just around the corner. The only trouble you'll have is trying to choose between the plethora of entertainment options. So, get ready to have a blast in Bahrain!