Bahrain is an island nation in the Middle East, deriving its name from the Arabic for 'Two Seas'. Its wealth has historically been tied to the trade of pearls, which grew in abundance in the many offshore springs. Today, Bahrain is a major financial centre with a thriving economy, and its capital city, Manama, is a hub of activity.
When it comes to where to stay, the best places tend to be on the coastline or in Manama. Manama boasts a skyscraper-spiked skyline, a World Trade Centre, nightclubs, white-sand beaches, and reclaimed land that is being built on to cater to the very wealthy.
If you're looking for luxury, there are many 5-star resorts to choose from, such as the The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa, which is situated on its own island in the heart of Manama, and the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre, which offers sleek, spacious accommodations with modern gadgetry.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, decent apartments can be rented cheaply, especially if costs are split among friends. The Baisan International Hotel Bahrain, Bahrain Carlton Hotel, and Oriental Palace Hotel are all good options, with prices ranging from $40 to $47 per night.
Bahrain has something for everyone, whether you're seeking luxury resorts, budget-friendly accommodations, or vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Best areas to stay in Bahrain | Juffair, Amwaj Islands, Seef District |
Best areas to stay for cultural and historical sites | Manama, Sakhir, Al Areen |
Best areas to stay for nightlife | Al Juffair |
Best areas to stay for shopping | Al Seef, Diplomatic Area, Al Juffair |
Best areas to stay for beaches | Amwaj Islands |
Best areas to stay for families | Majestic Arjaan by Rotana, Gulf Hotel Bahrain, Al Bander Hotel and Resort |
Best areas to stay for luxury | Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa, Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre, Al Areen Palace & Spa, Majestic Arjaan by Rotana, Al Bander Hotel and Resort, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain, The Domain, The Palace Boutique, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa, Al Areen Palace & Spa |
Best areas to stay for budget | Apartments or suites |
What You'll Learn
Hotels in Manama
Manama, Bahrain's cosmopolitan capital, is a popular destination for business and leisure travellers alike. The city boasts a diverse range of hotels, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly options, ensuring there is something for every type of traveller.
For those seeking opulence, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa is a 5-star property situated on its own island in the heart of Manama. The hotel offers a fabulous spa, beautiful suites, a lagoon-style swimming pool, and direct access to the beach. Another luxurious option is the Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre, which features spacious, sleek accommodations with state-of-the-art gadgetry, a choice of Italian or Arabian cuisine, and a stunning penthouse apartment known as the Royal Suite.
If you're looking for a more intimate experience, The Palace Boutique Hotel is a great choice with just twenty contemporary rooms. This hotel offers excellent value, with a lovely pool, garden, health club, and restaurant.
For families or larger groups, the Majestic Arjaan by Rotana offers suites with one, two, or three bedrooms. This hotel is also conveniently located just 2km from the International Airport.
For those who prefer a more central location, the Wyndham Garden Manama is situated in the heart of Manama, close to the Oasis Mall, City Centre, and the famous Al Fateh Grand Mosque.
When it comes to dining, the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay offers elegant accommodations with views of the Arabian Gulf, while the Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa boasts the only Thalassa Spa in Bahrain and an award-winning Italian seafood restaurant.
No matter your preferences, Manama has a hotel to suit your needs, with options ranging from luxurious resorts to intimate boutiques, all within easy access to the city's vibrant culture, history, and nightlife.
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Hotels near Bahrain International Circuit
There are several hotels near the Bahrain International Circuit, which is located in the Sakhir district, 30km northeast of Bahrain's capital city, Manama. Here are some options for places to stay:
Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa
This 5-star hotel is located just 4km from the Bahrain International Circuit and is served by free shuttle buses on race weekends. It is likely to be booked quickly, so early reservations are recommended.
Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain
A 10-minute drive from the circuit, this hotel is another excellent choice. Like the Sofitel, it is likely to be reserved by race teams and personnel, so early booking is essential.
Downtown Rotana
Located in the Diplomatic Area of Manama, this hotel is approximately a 35-minute drive from the Bahrain International Circuit. It is also served by free shuttle buses on race weekends.
InterContinental Regency Bahrain
Also located in the Diplomatic Area, the InterContinental is another good option, with free shuttle buses available during race weekends.
The K Hotel
Found in Al Juffair, this hotel is around a 30-minute drive from the circuit and is served by free shuttles. Al Juffair is a popular area for expats, with a good selection of restaurants and cafes.
Ibis Seef Manama
In the Al Seef area, which offers the shortest driving distance to the circuit, this hotel is also served by free shuttles. Al Seef is home to the largest mall in the kingdom, with a cineplex and waterpark.
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Best areas to stay in Bahrain
Bahrain's beauty lies in the shallow waters that lap its coastline. The best places to stay in Bahrain are on the coastline or in the cosmopolitan capital, Manama. The hub of Bahrain's activity is Manama, where most of the best hotels in Bahrain are centred.
Al Seef
Home to many of Manama's tallest skyscrapers, largest shopping malls and most expensive hotels, Al Seef also offers the shortest driving distance to the Bahrain International Circuit. Recommended hotels in Al Seef include Le Meridien Bahrain, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa and Ibis Seef Manama.
Diplomatic Area & Manama Centre
The central business district of Manama, also known as the Diplomatic Area, is a favoured place to stay for F1 teams and personnel. Recommended hotels in the Diplomatic Area include Downtown Rotana, InterContinental Regency Bahrain, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa, and Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay.
Al Juffair
Probably the best place to stay for nightlife, shopping, bars and cafes, Al Juffair is also popular with expats. Recommended places to stay in Al Juffair include The K Hotel, Ramada by Wyndham Bahrain, Gulf Hotel Bahrain, The Olive Hotel and Swiss-Belsuites Admiral Juffair.
Amwaj Islands
A group of man-made islands off the northeast coast of Bahrain, the Amwaj Islands are home to some of the best high-end resorts and sandy beaches in Bahrain. Recommended places to stay on the Amwaj Islands include the Ramada Hotel and Suites Amwaj Islands, the Art Hotel & Resort, and Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain.
Sakhir
There is very little accommodation to choose from in the south of the island, where the Bahrain International Circuit is located. The best option in the Sakhir district is the 5-star Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, which is just 4km from the circuit. The Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain is also a 10-minute drive from the circuit.
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Luxury stays in Bahrain
Bahrain is a kingdom of islands with a rich culture, bustling markets, serene beaches, and exciting sporting events. The country's capital, Manama, is a cosmopolitan city with a thriving economy and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain
Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain is an exclusive sanctuary of luxury, blending traditional Middle Eastern design with contemporary elegance. This all-villa resort features 78 opulent private pool villas, each surrounded by lush botanical gardens, creating a peaceful and intimate escape. The award-winning spa offers holistic treatments for ultimate relaxation, and the resort provides curated cultural experiences for guests. Dining options cater to all tastes, from casual to gourmet.
Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay
The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay is an elegant establishment set on its own private island. The most sought-after rooms are located in the twin towers, offering magnificent views. The hotel features two celebrated restaurants by Wolfgang Puck, serving an excellent range of culinary delights.
Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel and Spa
This five-star hotel is located on its own island in the heart of Manama, offering guests privacy and an exclusive setting. The hotel boasts tranquil gardens, a swimming pool, and several outdoor restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Each spacious room and suite comes with its own balcony, and guests can enjoy the private beach.
Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa
Located on the west coast of Bahrain, this hotel has its own private beach and is a popular choice for dignitaries and celebrities. It offers 262 rooms across seven storeys, with stunning views from the upper floors. The celebrated Thalassa Sea & Spa features two hydrotherapy pools, and guests can also enjoy the squash and tennis courts.
The Domain Bahrain Hotel and Spa
This modern, stylish hotel is located in Manama's Diplomatic District and features classy, comfortable, and clean accommodations with free Wi-Fi. It offers meeting facilities, and its fine dining restaurants serve Italian, Lebanese, and French cuisine.
Wyndham Grand Manama
Wyndham Grand Manama is known for its gourmet dining and boasts three large outdoor swimming pools and a sauna. The unique twisting design of the tower ensures stunning views from each spacious room and suite.
Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa
This resort features five cabana-lined swimming pools, water slides, a wellness centre, sports courts, a fitness centre, a kids' club, and a 36-seat cinema. It also offers a variety of dining options, including Sicilian food at Due Mari and Levantine dishes at Zahrat Al Fayrouz.
Royal Saray Resort
Royal and twin bedrooms, suites, and seafront four-bedroom Royal Villas are available at this resort, all with outdoor furniture. The Royal Villa includes a private infinity pool, dining and living areas, and a jacuzzi in the master bedroom. The resort offers private beach access, a range of restaurants and bars, and additional amenities like snorkelling, diving, and fishing for a fee.
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Budget-friendly stays in Bahrain
Bahrain is a popular destination year-round, with its glitz and glamour, liberal social climate, and beautiful coastline. While there is no shortage of luxury resorts and five-star hotels, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options for travellers looking to save some money on accommodation. Here are some great choices for budget-friendly stays in Bahrain:
The Tangier Tower
Located just 20 minutes from Bahrain Airport, The Tangier Tower offers a swimming pool and fitness centre for guests. With rates starting at USD 46 per night, it's a great option for those looking for access to amenities without breaking the bank.
Oyo 112 Semiramis Hotel
This 3-star hotel, located in the Hoora district of Manama, offers 40 rooms with city views and easy access to Bahrain Financial Harbour. Rates start at USD 27 per night, making it an affordable choice for those wanting to be close to the city centre.
Capital O 125 Moon Plaza Hotel
With rates starting at USD 26 per night, this 3-star hotel is a great value option. It features an Asian restaurant serving international cuisine, and is just 1.2 miles from Al Fateh Grand Mosque. The hotel also offers an outdoor swimming pool and fitness centre.
Bahrain Carlton Hotel
This chic 3-star hotel is located in the Adliya district of Manama and offers an Indian restaurant, with rooms starting at USD 38 per night. It's just a 10-minute walk from Old Palace and a short drive from other popular attractions.
Oriental Palace Hotel
For just USD 33 per night, guests can stay at the Oriental Palace Hotel, which is conveniently located just 900 feet from Bab Al-Bahrain. The hotel features an Asian restaurant serving Chinese cuisine, making it a great budget-friendly option in a prime location.
Pars International Hotel
Rated as the #1 Best Value of 23 Cheap Hotels in Bahrain by Tripadvisor, Pars International Hotel offers comfortable rooms, clean bathrooms, and a convenient location with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. It's a great choice for those looking for a good balance of comfort and affordability.
Ibis Seef Manama
Also rated highly by Tripadvisor users, Ibis Seef Manama is a 4-star hotel with rates starting at USD 40 per night. It offers an outdoor pool, fitness centre, and easy access to popular attractions like Seef Mall and Bahrain Fort Museum.
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Frequently asked questions
Bahrain Carlton Hotel, Oriental Palace Hotel, Baisan International Hotel Bahrain, and Mercure Grand Hotel Seef are some budget-friendly options.
The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre, Al Areen Palace & Spa, and The Gulf Hotel Bahrain are some of the best-known luxury hotels in Bahrain.
The ART Hotel & Resort, Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain, Majestic Arjaan by Rotana, and Al Bander Hotel and Resort are some good options for families.
The Gulf Hotel Bahrain, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa, Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre, and InterContinental Regency Bahrain are some good options for business travellers.
It depends on your interests. If you're into shopping malls, Seef is a good option. If you want to explore the Souq, Bab al Bahrain is a better choice. For a luxury experience and beach time, try the Ritz Carlton. For nightlife, clubs, and bars, stay in Juffair.