Mosques, museums and mezze in Manama

Enjoy a whirlwind tour of Arabian culture and cuisine in this fun-packed day that takes in some of Bahrain’s most enchanting sights.
 
Your tour begins with a visit to the majestic Al Fateh Grand Mosque, one of the largest in the world. Named after Bahrain’s 18th century founder, the mosque can accommodate up to 7,000 worshippers at a time. Its architecture reflects a combination of Middle Eastern styles, but its crowning glory is a giant fibreglass dome, weighing more than 60 tonnes.
 
Next, it’s on to the Bahrain National Museum, the country’s most popular tourist destination. With exhibits depicting life in Bahrain through the ages – including a reassembled ancient burial ground dating back to 2,800 BC – the museum’s nine halls are a treasure trove of information and insight into the region.
 
Our next stop will be Manama’s bazaar, located in the heart of Bahrain’s capital. Split into new and old sections, you’ll find everything from clothes and antiques to spices and traditional medicines in stalls spread across the souq’s labyrinthine lanes and alleyways. Just make sure you’ve left space in your luggage!
 
From bazaar to Bahrain Fort, one of the country’s most important historical sites. The fort itself was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, but excavations of the site have revealed evidence of six other eras, including that of the Dilmun civilization in around 3,000 BC.
 
You’ll conclude your Bahrain adventure at the 4-star Novotel Al Dana boutique hotel and resort for some well-deserved relaxation and a bite to eat. Enjoy a non-alcoholic welcome drink on arrival, followed by a delicious array of traditional Arabic mezze, kebabs and dishes from the grill. All washed down with a glass of wine. Then it’s back to the port to reboard the ship.