Riffa, one of the largest cities in Bahrain, is divided into two main areas: East Riffa and West Riffa. It is known for its rich history, modern amenities, and cultural landmarks. Riffa offers a mix of historical sites, recreational facilities, and shopping destinations, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Here are some of the best places to visit in Riffa, Bahrain:
Best Places to Visit
1. Riffa Fort (Sheikh Salman Bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort)
Riffa Fort, also known as Sheikh Salman Bin Ahmed Al Fateh Fort, is a historical landmark in Riffa. Built in the 19th century, the fort offers a glimpse into Bahrain’s past and features traditional Bahraini architecture. The fort overlooks the Hunanaiya Valley and provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the fort’s courtyards, rooms, and watchtowers while learning about its historical significance.
- Key Attractions: Historical fort, panoramic views.
- Activities: Historical exploration, sightseeing.
- Location: East Riffa, Bahrain.
2. Royal Golf Club
The Royal Golf Club is one of Bahrain’s premier golfing destinations, offering a world-class golfing experience. The club features an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Colin Montgomerie and a 9-hole par 3 course. It also has excellent facilities, including a driving range, a golf academy, and a pro shop. The Royal Golf Club is an ideal place for golf enthusiasts to enjoy a round of golf in a picturesque setting.
- Key Attractions: Championship golf course, golf academy.
- Activities: Golfing, dining.
- Location: Riffa Views, Bahrain.
3. Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve
Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve is a nature reserve located near Riffa, home to a diverse range of native and exotic wildlife species. The park features various enclosures, including those for Arabian oryx, gazelles, and flamingos. It also has a botanical garden and a rehabilitation center for injured animals. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the animals and the conservation efforts in place.
- Key Attractions: Wildlife, botanical gardens.
- Activities: Wildlife viewing, guided tours.
- Location: Near Riffa, Bahrain.
4. Riffa Clock Tower
The Riffa Clock Tower is a prominent landmark in the city, located in the heart of East Riffa. The tower is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors and serves as a symbol of the city’s modern development. The area around the clock tower is bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a great place to explore and enjoy local cuisine.
- Key Attractions: Modern landmark, local shops.
- Activities: Dining, shopping.
- Location: East Riffa, Bahrain.
5. Awali Golf Club
The Awali Golf Club is another popular golfing destination in Riffa. The club features a 9-hole sand golf course, offering a unique golfing experience. It is one of the oldest golf clubs in Bahrain and has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The club also has a clubhouse with dining facilities and hosts various social events throughout the year.
- Key Attractions: Sand golf course, clubhouse.
- Activities: Golfing, social events.
- Location: Awali, Riffa, Bahrain.
6. Riffa Souq
Riffa Souq is a traditional market that offers a variety of goods, including clothing, spices, perfumes, and household items. The souq is a great place to experience local culture and shop for unique souvenirs. The market’s lively atmosphere and diverse range of products make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
- Key Attractions: Traditional market, local goods.
- Activities: Shopping, cultural exploration.
- Location: East Riffa, Bahrain.
7. The Bahrain National Stadium
The Bahrain National Stadium, located in East Riffa, is the largest stadium in Bahrain and serves as a venue for various sporting events, including football matches and athletics competitions. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 24,000 and is a hub for sports enthusiasts in the region. It also hosts concerts and other entertainment events, making it a versatile venue.
- Key Attractions: Sports events, concerts.
- Activities: Watching sports, attending events.
- Location: East Riffa, Bahrain.
8. Wadi Al Sail Mall
Wadi Al Sail Mall is a modern shopping center in Riffa, offering a wide range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities. The mall features a mix of international and local brands, making it a convenient place for shopping. It also has a cinema complex and a variety of restaurants, providing a complete shopping and entertainment experience.
- Key Attractions: Shopping, dining, entertainment.
- Activities: Shopping, movie-watching.
- Location: West Riffa, Bahrain.
9. Riffa Views International School
Riffa Views International School is a well-known educational institution in Bahrain, offering international curriculum and high-quality education. The school’s campus is equipped with modern facilities, including sports fields, laboratories, and a library. While primarily an educational facility, the school occasionally hosts community events and activities that are open to the public.
- Key Attractions: Modern educational facilities.
- Activities: Community events.
- Location: Riffa Views, Bahrain.
10. Saar Mall
Saar Mall, located near Riffa, is a popular shopping destination offering a range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities. The mall features fashion boutiques, electronics stores, and a hypermarket. It also has a food court and a variety of restaurants, making it a great place to shop, dine, and relax.
- Key Attractions: Shopping, dining.
- Activities: Shopping, dining.
- Location: Saar, Bahrain.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riffa Fort | Historical fort with traditional architecture | Panoramic views, historical exploration | East Riffa, Bahrain |
| Royal Golf Club | Premier golf club with championship course | Golfing, dining | Riffa Views, Bahrain |
| Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve | Nature reserve with diverse wildlife and gardens | Wildlife viewing, guided tours | Near Riffa, Bahrain |
| Riffa Clock Tower | Prominent landmark in East Riffa | Modern landmark, local shops | East Riffa, Bahrain |
| Awali Golf Club | Golf club with a 9-hole sand course | Sand golf course, social events | Awali, Riffa, Bahrain |
| Riffa Souq | Traditional market offering a variety of goods | Local goods, traditional market | East Riffa, Bahrain |
| Bahrain National Stadium | Largest stadium in Bahrain for sports and events | Sports events, concerts | East Riffa, Bahrain |
| Wadi Al Sail Mall | Modern shopping center with retail and entertainment | Shopping, dining, entertainment | West Riffa, Bahrain |
| Riffa Views International School | Educational institution with modern facilities | Community events | Riffa Views, Bahrain |
| Saar Mall | Shopping mall with a range of stores and dining options | Shopping, dining | Saar, Bahrain |
How to Reach Riffa
By Plane
The nearest major airport to Riffa is Bahrain International Airport (BAH), located approximately 25 kilometers away. The airport offers numerous international flights from major cities worldwide. From the airport, travelers can reach Riffa by taxi, car rental, or public transportation.
By Car
Riffa is well-connected by road to other parts of Bahrain. The city is easily accessible via major highways, including the Shaikh Khalifa Bin Salman Highway. The drive from Manama, the capital city, to Riffa takes around 20-30 minutes. Car rental options are available at the airport and throughout the city.
By Public Transportation
Bahrain has a public bus system that connects Riffa with other areas of the country. The buses are a convenient and affordable way to travel within the city and to nearby locations. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available for more personalized transportation.
Best Time to Visit Riffa
The best time to visit Riffa is during the winter months (November to March), when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities. This period is ideal for exploring historical sites, enjoying sports events, and shopping. The summer months (June to September) can be extremely hot, making it less comfortable for outdoor exploration. However, many indoor attractions, such as malls and waterparks, are air-conditioned and provide a comfortable escape from the heat.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Riffa offers a variety of dining options, including traditional Bahraini cuisine and international dishes. Be sure to try local specialties like machbous (spiced rice with meat), falafel, and shawarma.
- Cultural Etiquette: Bahrain is a culturally diverse country, but it is important to respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites or public places, dress modestly and avoid public displays of affection. It is also polite to ask for permission before taking photographs of people.
- Transportation: Riffa is a relatively small area, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available and are a convenient way to get around. The city’s public transportation system, including buses, also provides an affordable option for traveling within Riffa and to nearby areas.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Riffa Fort to explore its historical significance and enjoy the panoramic views. Then, head to the Royal Golf Club for a round of golf or a visit to the club’s facilities.
- Afternoon: Have lunch at a local restaurant and explore Riffa Souq for some shopping and cultural experiences. Afterward, visit the Riffa Clock Tower and the surrounding area.
- Evening: Conclude your day with a visit to Wadi Al Sail Mall for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Enjoy a meal at one of the mall’s restaurants and relax.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with visits to Riffa Fort and the Royal Golf Club. In the afternoon, explore the Bahrain National Stadium and enjoy any sports events or activities. In the evening, dine at a restaurant in Wadi Al Sail Mall and enjoy some shopping.
- Day 2: Start with a morning visit to Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve to see the diverse wildlife. Then, head to the Awali Golf Club for a unique golfing experience on the sand course. In the afternoon, visit Saar Mall for shopping and dining. Conclude your trip with a leisurely walk around the Riffa Clock Tower area.
Riffa’s rich history, modern amenities, and diverse attractions make it a captivating destination in Bahrain. Whether you’re exploring ancient forts, enjoying a round of golf, or shopping in luxury malls, Riffa offers a memorable experience for every traveler.
