Explore the vibrant capital of Saudi Arabia with this comprehensive guide, featuring must-see attractions, local experiences, and insider tips to make the most of your 3-day Riyadh adventure.
Day 1 in Riyadh: Discover Riyadh's Historic Heart
Step Back in Time at Masmak Fortress
Discover Saudi Arabia's history at this iconic clay and mud-brick fort, now a museum.
Delve into Saudi Arabia's Rich History
Delve into Saudi Arabia's rich culture and history at this museum, featuring exhibits from prehistoric times to the modern era.
Explore the Royal Past at Murabba Palace
Explore the historical Murabba Palace, now a museum showcasing the palace's original furnishings and decorations.
Experience the Buzz of Al Thumairi Street
Discover traditional shops and markets, and sample street food on this vibrant street.
Day 2 in Riyadh: Embrace the Modern and Traditional
Shop, Dine, and Play at Al Nakheel Mall
Enjoy shopping, dining, and family-friendly entertainment at this expansive mall, with a diverse food court and play area.
Ascend for Panoramic City Views
Ascend the Kingdom Tower for panoramic views of the city, including the observation deck and shopping mall.
Explore the Financial District's Hub
Explore this complex in the financial district of Riyadh, with food stalls, a cinema, and a modern mosque.
Discover Diriyah's Historic Charm
Discover the historic district of Diriyah at this park, filled with restaurants, cafes, and recreational facilities, especially enjoyable in the evening.
Day 3 in Riyadh: Adventure into the Desert Landscape
Ride Through the Red Sand Dunes
Rent an ATV, enjoy picnics, and soak in the stunning views of the Tuwaiq Escarpment at the Red Sand Dunes.
Hike for Breathtaking Desert Views
Hike atop the Tuwaiq Mountains for breathtaking panoramic views of the ancient seabed and desert landscape.
Embark on a Desert Safari Adventure
Embark on a guided 4x4 desert safari to the Edge of the World, including a hike, sunset views, and dinner.
Conquer the Edge of the World
Embark on a thrilling hike to the edge of this majestic rock formation for breathtaking desert views.
References
- 10 Awesome Things To Do in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- 12 Most Beautiful Places in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to Visit
- A Traveler's Guide To Riyadh: Unforgettable Experiences Await
- Gay Riyadh, Saudi Arabia | The Essential LGBT Travel Guide!
- Amazing Things To Do In Saudi Arabia
- 10 BEST Things to Do in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 2024
- Romancing Riyadh: A Journey Into The Heart Of Arabia
Transportation in Riyadh
To get around Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, you have several options. For short distances, you can use ride-hailing services like Careem or Uber, which are widely available in the city. Taxis are also a common mode of transportation, and you can find them at taxi stands or hail one on the street. If you prefer to drive yourself, you can rent a car from one of the many rental companies in the city. Additionally, Riyadh has a public bus system, but it's not as comprehensive as other cities, and you may need to use a combination of buses to get to your destination. For longer trips or to visit nearby attractions, you can use the Haramain train, which is a convenient and relatively affordable option. It's worth noting that traffic in Riyadh can be heavy, especially during rush hour, so be sure to plan your route and travel times accordingly.
Dos in Riyadh
- Book your train tickets in advance to get a reasonable price.
- Book your hotels through Booking.com or Airbnb.
- Expect to pay around 300SAR/£62.00/$80.00USD a night for a decent hotel in Riyadh.
- Be aware that hotel reviews in Saudi Arabia are often harsh.
- Check the visiting schedule of every museum before visiting.
- Use the SAPTCO bus service, which is the cheapest way to travel around Saudi Arabia.
- Drink coffee, as it is widely available.
- Buy water instead.
- Consider hiring a local guide to help navigate the country and its customs.
- Take advantage of the abundance of Shawarma places, which is the most budget-friendly food option.
- Eat at local restaurants run by Indians or Pakistanis, which offer cheap and local food.
Don'ts in Riyadh
- Don't drink, as drinking is not allowed in Saudi Arabia.
- Don't drink tap water, as it is not safe to drink.