The Kingdom of Bahrain is the smallest Arab state in the Middle East. And its capital, Manama, is the most sparsely populated capital in the whole world. Bahrain is an island nation located in the Persian Gulf. Bahrain is connected to the mainland by a single road bridge stretching across the strait to the shores of Saudi Arabia.
Manama is located on the coast in the northern part of the country. Local resorts are a favorite place that is oriented at any age of tourists, as well as families with children.
How to get to Manama?
You can get to Manama in several ways, the main of which is of course the plane. Bahrain International Airport is the largest airport in the country, which daily serves hundreds of flights from cities in Europe, Africa and Asia. It is located on the island of Muharraq, seven kilometers from Manama. You can take a taxi from the airport to the city, which is fast and fairly inexpensive. However, if you prefer public transportation, you can use the bus. The nearest bus stop is a short walk from the airport. At the exit from the terminal, you need to move forward and to the right to the highway, go along it to a roundabout, where the stop is located. Every 30 minutes, bus number 1 stops here, which goes to the city. Ticket price is only 0.5 dinar.
You can also get to Manama by car from the bridge from Saudi Arabia (Al Khobar city). The distance is only 16 kilometers, and border control is located on Middle Island.
Things to do in Manama
Manama is a city with a rich history, which originates in ancient times. There are a huge number of museums, galleries and attractions. So the first thing you can do when you arrive in Manama is to go on a sightseeing tour. Here are the most interesting of them:
- Qulat Al Bahrain Site;
This is the largest fort in the country, built in the 16th century. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On its territory there is also a small historical museum.
- King Fahad Causeway Bridge;
It connects Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. On the islands through which it passes there are restaurants and clubs that offer wonderful views of the bay.
- Al Khamis Mosque;
This is one of the oldest mosques in the country, the date of construction of which was 642.
A significant part of the local beaches are shallow, so diving enthusiasts should go to one of the local diving clubs, which organizes trips to the most beautiful reefs on nearby islands.
The best time for a vacation in Manama is considered to be the period from October to March, although the resort is open for beach holidays all year round.
