Bahrain Discovery

📍 Dammam (Al Khobar) - Bahrain (55 km): 1 hour

The day begins with a guided transfer from Dammam, offering scenic views while crossing the impressive King Fahd Causeway, a series of bridges connecting Saudi Arabia to Bahrain. Immigration is smoothly handled, ensuring a hassle-free entry into Bahrain.

The first stop is the Bahrain National Museum, one of the country’s most important cultural institutions. Its extensive collection showcases Bahrain's rich history, from the ancient Dilmun civilization to modern times. Exhibits include traditional handicrafts, ancient manuscripts, and archaeological finds.

Next, explore the charming Old Town of Muharraq, a historic area that was once Bahrain's capital. Stroll through narrow lanes lined with traditional houses, vibrant souks, and key highlights such as the Sheikh Isa Bin Ali House and Arad Fort, offering a glimpse into Bahrain's architectural heritage.

As evening approaches, head to The Avenues Park, a beautiful waterfront park perfect for a leisurely stroll at sunset. Enjoy the serene ambiance and picturesque scenery along the promenade.

Conclude the day with dinner at one of the excellent restaurants in The Avenues Park, offering a variety of cuisines with a backdrop of the shimmering waterfront.

Overnight in Bahrain.

Inclusions:

🍗 Dinner

Bahrain is a well-kept secret worth exploring. A full day allows you to see and feel most of the highlights and really understand this mini kingdom. The distances are small and traffic is generally light. 

Starting from the hotel, head first into ‘the countryside’ to the circuit of the Grand Prix of Bahrain. Feel the vibe overlooking the track from one of the stands and wander around the small welcome centre showcasing grand moments of this annual race since 2004. After the circuit it feels like entering the desert. This is where oil was first found and is still pumped up constantly. Bahrain is one of few places where one can actually drive in between the working pumps and see it all up close.

On a small hill is an unusual sight; The Tree of Life, a 440 year old acacia tree, which is a symbol for Bahraini. They love to come to these parts to picnic and camp out in the cooler months. On the way back into town, admire local pottery at one of the workshops. Bahrain gets a lot of visitors from neighbouring emirates and Saudi Arabia who like to enjoy a type of drink not always allowed in their countries and bring back colourful pottery as souvenirs. 

Downtown Manama is the area around ‘Bab Bahrain’ or the Gate to Bahrain. Now surrounded by  reclaimed land, in the old days the ships moored here and merchants entered the Kingdom through the gate. Hence the market was right here and the narrow streets and alleys are still a lively neighbourhood. Enjoy a local lunch and browse the shops around. 

When the call to prayer sounds the mosques get busy. The Ahmed Al_fateh or Grand Mosque offers insights into Islam, how it came to be and how it shapes the days and lives of nearly all people in the Middle East. Walk around and ask your guide anything and everything. After the spiritual heart, let's explore the business heart of Bahrain at the Financial Harbor. It feels like being in London’s Canary Wharf on a sunny day, glass and steel and trendy coffee shops catering to the suits and ties of the business elite. 

In the setting sun, explore Bahrain Fort, actually one of several that protected the small island kingdom. With its 14 gates and thick walls it protected the merchants and their families in the Portuguese times when ships passed through the Gulf in search of gold and spices. These days it has become a park and museum.

Overnight in Bahrain. 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 Manama Area - Bahrain International Airport (12km): 15 mins

Begin the day with a unique and authentic experience of Bahrain by visiting the Bahrain Central Market, a bustling hub where locals shop for their daily needs. This vibrant market offers a wide array of fresh vegetables, fish, fruits, and meats. The lively atmosphere is filled with the sounds of vendors calling out their goods and the scents of fresh produce and spices.

Stroll through the market, engaging with local vendors to purchase ingredients. This interaction provides an insightful glimpse into the daily life and culinary habits of Bahrainis. The market's colourful and diverse offerings reflect Bahrain's rich agricultural and maritime traditions.

Next, visit a Bahraini family house, where a warm welcome awaits. This invitation to a local home offers an opportunity to immerse in the culture and hospitality of Bahrain. The family shares their customs and stories, offering a deeper understanding of the local way of life.

Together with the family, prepare a traditional Bahraini meal using the ingredients purchased at the market. Learn the secrets of Bahraini cuisine from a housewife, who will guide through the process of making local dishes. This hands-on experience is both educational and enjoyable, providing insights into the culinary traditions of Bahrain.

After the cooking session, enjoy a delicious lunch with the host family. The meal, prepared together, is a testament to the shared experience and cultural exchange. Savour the flavours of authentic Bahraini cuisine in a convivial and homely setting.

Then bid farewell to the host family and transfer back to the hotel for a free afternoon at leisure before leaving to the Bahrain International Airport for your afternoon flight. 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch