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A Week in Bahrain: December 15-21, 2023

Friday, December 15: Exploring Manama, the Capital

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the historical charm of Manama, the capital city of Bahrain. In the morning, visit the Bahrain National Museum to learn about the country's rich history and culture. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Bab Al Bahrain Souq, where you can shop for traditional crafts, spices, and textiles. As the evening sets in, head to Block 338, a trendy neighborhood filled with art galleries, cafes, and restaurants.

  • Bahrain National Museum: Admission fee - BD 2 (~$5.30), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Bab Al Bahrain Souq: No entrance fee, Cost of shopping varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Block 338: Cost of dining varies, Time spent - Evening
Saturday, December 16: Discovering Muharraq's Cultural Heritage

Embark on a journey to Muharraq, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional architecture and cultural heritage. In the morning, visit the Sheikh Isa Bin Ali House, an exquisite example of Gulf Islamic architecture. Afterward, explore the charming narrow streets of Muharraq and visit the Siyadi House, a beautifully restored historic residence. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Bahraini meal at one of the local restaurants.

  • Sheikh Isa Bin Ali House: Admission fee - BD 1 (~$2.65), Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Siyadi House: Admission fee - BD 1 (~$2.65), Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Traditional Bahraini Restaurant: Cost of meal varies, Time spent - Evening
Sunday, December 17: Island Hopping and Beach Relaxation

Indulge in the natural beauty of Bahrain by spending a leisurely day island hopping and enjoying its pristine beaches. Start with a visit to Jarada Island, known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings. In the afternoon, head to Amwaj Islands and relax on the picturesque Amwaj Beach. Enjoy water activities or simply soak up the sun. Wrap up the day with a delicious seafood dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants.

  • Jarada Island: No entrance fee, Time spent - Half a day
  • Amwaj Beach: No entrance fee, Cost of water activities varies, Time spent - Afternoon
  • Seafood Restaurant: Cost of meal varies, Time spent - Evening
Monday, December 18: Exploring the Ancient Dilmun Burial Mounds

Embark on a historical adventure by visiting the ancient Dilmun Burial Mounds, an impressive archaeological site. Spend the morning exploring the numerous mounds and learning about the fascinating Bronze Age civilization. In the afternoon, visit the Bahrain Fort UNESCO World Heritage Site and explore its impressive ruins. Wrap up the day by enjoying a traditional Bahraini tea at a local cafe.

  • Dilmun Burial Mounds: No entrance fee, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Bahrain Fort: Admission fee - BD 1 (~$2.65), Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Local Cafe: Cost of tea varies, Time spent - Evening
Tuesday, December 19: Adrenaline-Fueled Activities in the Desert

Experience the thrill of the desert by engaging in exciting activities. Start the day with a desert safari, where you can ride a 4x4 vehicle over the sand dunes and enjoy stunning desert vistas. In the afternoon, try your hand at sandboarding or ride a camel for a unique desert experience. As the evening approaches, savor a traditional Arabian dinner under the starry night sky at a desert camp.

  • Desert Safari: Cost varies based on tour package, Time spent - Half a day
  • Sandboarding/Camel Riding: Cost varies, Time spent - Afternoon
  • Desert Camp Dinner: Cost varies, Time spent - Evening
Wednesday, December 20: Shopping and Modern Bahrain

Explore the modern side of Bahrain by indulging in a day of shopping and entertainment. Start with a visit to the City Center Bahrain, a popular shopping mall where you can find international brands and local boutiques. In the afternoon, visit the Bahrain International Circuit, a world-class motorsport venue. If there's a race or event taking place, consider watching or participating. End the day with dinner and a movie at one of the mall's many restaurants and cinemas.

  • City Center Bahrain: Cost of shopping varies, Time spent - Morning
  • Bahrain International Circuit: Admission fee varies, Time spent - Afternoon
  • Restaurant/Cinema at City Center Bahrain: Cost of meal/ticket varies, Time spent - Evening
Thursday, December 21: Relaxing at Al Dar Islands

Wrap up your week in Bahrain by unwinding on the tranquil Al Dar Islands, located off the coast of Sitra. Spend the day lounging on the pristine beaches, swimming in the turquoise waters, or engaging in water sports activities. Enjoy a leisurely beachside lunch and take in the beauty of the surroundings. Before leaving, explore the underwater world with a snorkeling or diving excursion.

  • Al Dar Islands: Boat transfer fee - BD 10 (~$26.50), Cost of water sports activities varies, Time spent - Full day
  • Beachside Lunch: Cost of meal varies, Time spent - Lunchtime
  • Snorkeling/Diving Excursion: Cost varies, Time spent - Afternoon

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the Tree of Life, a solitary tree that stands in the desert without a known water source. It's a symbol of resilience and is considered a natural wonder. Another local favorite is the A'ali Pottery, where you can witness the traditional craft of pottery-making and even try your hand at creating your own ceramic masterpiece.

Additionally, exploring the smaller towns and villages outside of the capital, such as Riffa and Budaiya, can provide a glimpse into the local way of life and traditional Bahraini architecture.

To check hotel and flight prices, click here.

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