Day 1: Arrival in Riyadh
Your journey through Saudi Arabia starts in Riyadh, the capital. It’s a big, modern city that still holds onto its history. Take it easy today, as you’ll probably be tired from your flight.
Start with a visit to the Al Masmak Fortress. It was built in the 19th century and played a key role in the country’s history. You can explore the fort and the small museum inside. It’s a great way to learn more about Riyadh’s past.
In the afternoon, check out the National Museum. It’s modern, easy to navigate, and rich with historical and cultural exhibits. You’ll get a solid introduction to the history of Saudi Arabia, from pre-Islamic times to the present.
For dinner, head to Al Faisaliah Tower and dine at The Globe, a restaurant offering stunning views of the city. After dinner, take a walk through the nearby Tahlia Street, where you’ll find chic cafés, restaurants, and boutiques.
Overnight: Riyadh
Day 2: Edge of the World & Kingdom Centre
Today, get out of the city for some outdoor adventure. Head to the “Edge of the World,” an incredible cliff formation about 90 kilometers from Riyadh. The views are fantastic, and you’ll feel like you’re standing at the edge of the earth itself. Make sure you bring enough water and snacks, as there are no amenities in the area.
You can either rent a 4×4 or join a tour to get there. Most tours include a few hours of hiking and exploring the area, so wear comfortable shoes.
After returning to the city in the late afternoon, visit the Kingdom Centre Tower. It’s a skyscraper with an observation deck that offers panoramic views of the city. Sunset is a perfect time to go.
For dinner, try Najd Village. It’s a traditional Saudi restaurant where you can sample local dishes like kabsa (a spiced rice dish with meat, usually lamb or chicken).
Overnight: Riyadh
Day 3: Travel to Al Ula & Hegra
It’s time to leave Riyadh and fly north to Al Ula. An afternoon flight gives you a relaxed start to the day but still plenty of time to explore this beautiful area.
Al Ula is famous for its ancient rock formations and archaeological sites. Once you’ve checked into your hotel, head straight out to Hegra (also known as Madain Saleh). This UNESCO World Heritage site is often compared to Petra in Jordan because of the similar Nabatean rock-cut tombs. Spend a few hours wandering around.
In the evening, enjoy a laid-back meal at one of the local restaurants in Al Ula town. Al Ula’s quiet desert vibe is perfect for a relaxed night after a day of exploration.
Overnight: Al Ula
Day 4: Explore Al Ula’s Desert and Ancient Ruins
Today, dive deeper into Al Ula’s history and landscape. Start the morning with a visit to Jabal Ikmah, often referred to as Saudi Arabia’s “open-air library.” Here, you’ll find hundreds of ancient inscriptions carved into the rocks. It’s a fascinating look into the region’s early history.
Next, visit Al Ula Old Town, where you can walk through narrow alleys and imagine life there centuries ago. The town is partially restored, and there are more than 900 mud-brick houses to explore.
In the afternoon, go for a camel trek or 4×4 tour through the stunning desert landscapes. Al Ula is home to some unique rock formations like Elephant Rock, which is definitely worth a stop.
For dinner, check out a camp-style restaurant and experience traditional desert dining under the stars.
Overnight: Al Ula
Day 5: Travel to Jeddah & Explore the Corniche
In the morning, fly down to Jeddah, a coastal city on the Red Sea. Known for its laid-back vibe, Jeddah offers a completely different feel compared to Riyadh or Al Ula.
Once you’ve arrived and settled in, head out to explore the Jeddah Corniche. It’s a long waterfront area where you can walk, relax, and admire the art installations scattered along the way. You’ll also spot the famous King Fahd Fountain, one of the tallest in the world.
In the afternoon, visit Al-Balad, the old town. This UNESCO-listed area is full of narrow streets, historic buildings, and traditional markets (souqs). Don’t miss seeing Nasif House, a beautifully restored building that once belonged to a prominent merchant family.
For your last dinner in Saudi Arabia, try a seafood restaurant by the water. Jeddah is famous for its fresh fish, prawns, and other seafood dishes. Make sure you try the local version of the classic Arabian fish stew, sayadiyah, before heading back for the night.
Overnight: Jeddah
Tips for Traveling in Saudi Arabia
- Dress modestly, especially in Riyadh and smaller towns. Women should bring a light abaya for public spaces.
- Renting a car can give you more flexibility, but make sure to plan around the heat, especially in the desert.
- Use Uber or Careem when traveling between places inside cities. It’s affordable and easy to use.
- Saudi Arabia is a relatively new tourist destination, so don’t be surprised if locals are friendly and curious about you.
Duration Recap:
- Day 1: Explore Riyadh (National Museum, Al Masmak, Al Faisaliah Tower)
- Day 2: Edge of the World & Kingdom Centre
- Day 3: Travel to Al Ula & Visit Hegra
- Day 4: Explore Al Ula (Jabal Ikmah, Desert Tour, Old Town)
- Day 5: Fly to Jeddah, Corniche Visit, and Al-Balad
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