Bahrain National Museum
Sheikh Hamad Causeway, Manama, Capital Governorate
Bahrain National Museum traces 6,000 years of the country’s history and is one of the island’s most popular attractions. Inside, nine halls are filled with exhibits and relics representing local culture. Highlights include an enormous satellite image of Bahrain, archaeological artifacts from ancient Dilmun, and a replica souk.
The best way to visit the Bahrain National Museum is as part of a day trip that covers the region’s highlights. Tours typically cover the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, the largest Islamic monument in Bahrain; Bahrain Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and fragrant Bab el-Bahrain Souk to buy incense, spices, and traditional textiles. Some tours also take you to the Royal Camel Farm and the Bahrain International Circuit, which hosts Formula 1 races.
The information signs in the museum are in Arabic and English.
Budget around 1.5 hours to explore the museum's nine halls.
There are restrooms and a small gift shop.
To visit the Bahrain National Museum, you must dress more formally; shorts, T-shirts, and tennis shoes are not allowed.
There’s free on-site parking at the museum.
Bahrain Nation Museum is on the Shaikh Hamad Causeway in Manama, Bahrain. The closest bus stop is Exhibition Avenue, served by bus 42, which departs every 30 minutes on weekdays. The museum is a 15-minute drive from Bahrain International Airport.
Bahrain National Museum is open from Wednesday through Monday, from morning until midevening. It’s closed on Tuesdays and Muslim public holidays such as Eid. The best time to visit Bahrain is between December and March when the desert climate is mildest and best for sightseeing.
Archeology buffs are drawn to the museum because of the Hall of Dilmun Graves, which exhibits original Dilmun Burial Mounds, and the Hall of Dilmun, which features relics dating back to 400 BC. The Hall of Tylos and Islam presents elaborate ceramics, glasswork, and metal objects from the Al-Khamis Mosque, one of the oldest in Bahrain.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!