Bahrain, a tiny island nation in the Arabian Gulf, is often overlooked but packs a punch with its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern attractions.

From its bustling souks to its royal camel farms, Bahrain offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Here's a detailed guide to exploring this Middle Eastern gem, including costs, transportation, and timing.

Epic Bahraini Breakfast

Start your day with a traditional Bahraini breakfast at Saffron By Jena. Located in Muharraq, this spot serves a mezze-style spread featuring dishes like balaleet (sweet vermicelli with egg pancakes) and flatbreads with fermented fish paste. A meal here costs around 10-15 BHD (£20-£30). Open daily from 7 am to 11 pm, it's best to arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds.

Manama Souk Adventure

Next, head to Manama Souk, a labyrinth of narrow alleys filled with spices, perfumes, and gold. For a guided tour, book with Local Ppl, which offers tours starting at 25 BHD (£50) per person. The tour includes a visit to the stunning Shrinathji Temple and tips on haggling like a pro. The souk is open daily from 9 am to 9 pm.

Royal Camel Farm

A short drive from Manama takes you to the Royal Camel Farm, home to over 500 camels. Entry is free, and the farm is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. You can feed the camels and learn about their significance in Bahraini culture. Don't forget to tip the workers, who earn modest wages.

Handicrafts at Al Jasra

Visit the Bahrain Handicrafts Centre in Al Jasra to watch artisans create traditional crafts like pottery and musical instruments. Entry is free, and the center is open from 8 am to 2 pm, Sunday to Thursday. Nearby, explore Al Jasra House, a restored historic home showcasing Bahraini architecture.

Sweet Treats

No visit to Bahrain is complete without trying halwa Bahraini, a gel-like sweet made with corn starch and nuts. Head to Showaiter Sweets, where a box costs around 5 BHD (£10). The shop is open daily from 8 am to 10 pm, and you can even tour the factory to see how it's made.

Getting Around

Taxis are the most convenient way to get around Bahrain. Fares start at 1 BHD (£2), with a typical ride within Manama costing 3-5 BHD (£6-£10). For a more local experience, try the public buses, which cost just 0.3 BHD (£0.60) per ride.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Bahrain is between November and March, when temperatures range from 15-25°C. Avoid the summer months, as temperatures can soar above 40°C, making outdoor activities uncomfortable.

Conclusion

Bahrain may be small, but it's brimming with cultural treasures and unique experiences. From its epic breakfast spreads to its royal camel farms, this Middle Eastern gem is a destination that deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.