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From nature and adventure to food, culture, architecture and history, Saudi has a wealth of diverse experiences to enjoy and explore. To plan your perfect trip, take our simple quiz and read on for your ideal 7-day travel itinerary, and the best sights, locales and activities to build in during your stay…
Discover your Saudi
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PARTNER CONTENT
High octane thrills
Beautiful scenery
Rich heritage
Interesting culture
01. Which of these is the most important to you when travelling?
Amazing food
The Call of The Wild by Jack London
The Simple Beauty of the Unexpected: A Natural Philosopher's Quest for Trout and the Meaning of Everything by Marcelo Gleiser
AlUla Unearthed by Hisham Mortada
Edge of Arabia: Contemporary Art from Saudi Arabia
Modern Flavors of Arabia: Recipes and Memories from My Middle Eastern Kitchen
02. Which of these would you read in preparation for your trip?
The Call of The Wild BY jack London
The Simple Beauty of the Unexpected by Marcelo Gleiser
THE EDGE OF ARABIA Contemporary art from Saudi Arabia
Modern Flavors of Arabia by My middle eastern Kitchen
03. What sort of scenery most appeals to you?
Zip wiring
A woodland trail
Museum visit
Live music
Food market
04. Which would be your preferred activity?
05. What are you most likely to take with you?
Your Saudi experience...
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Destination 1 – Have an astro adventure
Destination 2 – Hit the heights
Destination 3 – Try a tandem paraglide
Destination 4 – Hike through history
Destination 5 – Go shore diving
Destination 6 – Have a sand-venture
Destination 7 – Hit the surf
From a Bedouin BBQ to an astro sleepover, discover your perfect thrill-packed itinerary below
Begin in the Western Province and your way to Al Soudah and on to Aseer National Park. Set up camp at one of the 67 campsites and head out on a hike through the juniper forests. As night falls, gaze up as the spectacular night sky comes alive with stars while you cook over an open fire.
Drive to Mount Soudah to take the thrilling 7km cable car ride down to the Sarawat Valley below, keeping an eye out for passing kites and griffon vultures. Rent a mountain bike and go out with a group to explore the park’s many and varied terrains.
An early morning start for some tandem paragliding from Jabal Hada at 900 metres above sea-level. Recover from the experience then make the journey to Al Sahab Park. Set up camp at one of the nearby campsites and eat at one of the local restaurants.
Take in the spectacular views of the foggy mountain from the park lookout. Pay a visit to the Al-Dabab neighbourhood and a relaxed 7km-saunter along the Fog Walkway for stunning views of the mountains, historic fortresses and archaeological sites.
Hop on a two-hour morning flight to the Eastern Province. Go to Half Moon Bay for some shore diving and snorkelling around Half Moon Bay. Drift through the artificial reef created to help divers in training, and encounter coral and wildlife unique to the Red Sea. Other waterborne adventures include parasailing, jet skiing, twister boat rides and short boat trips.
Drive out to the desert for a day of dune bashing in 4x4 vehicles with a local operator. Dial back the adrenaline with a more relaxed but no less spectacular camel ride, and enjoy a night at Makan Camp for a Bedouin experience with traditional BBQ.
After a hearty Bedouin breakfast, remain in the desert for a final morning of sandboarding and sand sledding.
From cave creeping to octopus-spotting, take a walk on the wild side with this wonder-packed itinerary
Destination 1 – Have a lakeside picnic
Destination 2 – Swim underground
Destination 3 – Discover the Hidden Canyon
Destination 4 – Hike a prehistoric landscape
Destination 5 – See the sealife
Destination 6 – Go on a subaquatic safari
Destination 7 – Discover the dunes
Begin your nature-themed week of exploring in the city of Riyadh. Get away from the bustle and make for Al Kharrarah National Park on the outskirts. Hike to the highest sand dunes and look out to the iconic Tuwaiq escarpment, and Lake Kharrarah – or ‘Lake of Liquid Light’. Have a picnic by the lake, hire an off-road vehicle and spend the day exploring the beautiful corners of this spectacular natural gem.
After breakfast, drive to the other side of Riyadh towards the Ain Heet Cave. This wild, hidden cave system is located in the village of Wadi As Sulay, and makes for a perfect, relaxed day of rare nature exploring. The mouth of the cave is about 20 metres wide and narrows down to approximately 5 metres. Inside you’ll discover a beautiful crystal underground lake, perfect for cave diving and surrounded by glittering anhydrite minerals.
For a natural gem not too far from Riyadh city (an hour in the car), dedicate day three to the Hidden Canyon. The surrounding terrain is made up of huge rocky cliffs, desert sands and often large pools of water. This combo makes the area the ultimate adventure playground, and the perfect place to satisfy your wanderlust once you’ve taken some incredible photos of the canyon itself.
Make for the ocean by car, stopping off at Wahba Crater – about a two-hour drive north of Taif – on your way. Measuring 1.3km across, Wahba is 200m deep and features a white sodium phosphate crystal lake in the centre. Set up camp by one of the many streams that flow through the surrounding palm forests, lace up a pair of hardy boots and strike out into this gorgeous, prehistoric natural landscape.
Time to go to the Red Sea coastline for encounters with amazing marine wildlife in the world-class waters off the edge of ancient seaports. Hire some Scuba equipment in Jeddah, take a boat out and enjoy a day’s dive around kaleidoscopic reefs and spooky wrecks surrounded by turtles, giant rays, lionfish and octopus.
On day six, visit the Farasan Islands. While this archipelago of 80 islands is a paradise for nature lovers, it is also an excellent destination in which to connect with Saudi heritage. Go on a heritage walk in Al Qassar, explore the Ottoman Fort and get up close with the Luqman Castle.
Last, but by no means least, you’re headed for Rub' al Khali, or The Empty Quarter. This vast expanse of sand and dunes covers almost 655,000 sq km, and is at once fascinating and foreboding; intriguing and brutal. Book a local guide to introduce you to the wonders of this legendary desert, camping overnight beneath a blanket of stars and drinking Arabic coffee, before driving back to civilisation in Riyadh.
Day 1 – Have an astro adventure
Day 2 – Hit the heights
Day 3 – Try a tandem paraglide
Day 4 – Hike through history
Day 5 – Go shore diving
Day 6 – Have a sand-venture
Day 7 – Hit the surf
From ancient sites to modern marvels discover all the must-see sites for an enlightening trip
Destination 1 – Immerse yourself in Saudi culture
Destination 2 – Head to historic locales
Destination 3 – Tour the souq
Destination 4 – Explore a fort
Destination 5 – Go on an architectural journey
Destination 6 – Step into the future
Destination 7 – Learn about Lawrence of Arabia
Begin in Saudi’s capital Riyadh and make your way around its wealth of historic buildings and institutions dedicated to Islamic architecture. Thumaira Gate, Masmak Fortress, the National Museum of Saudi Arabia and Murabba Palace are among the highlights.
Stay in Riyadh to explore the historic Ad Diriyah and the Al-Turaif District. Don’t miss the Salwa Palace – former royal residence for Saudi’s monarchs – and the many museums, from the Diriyah Museum and the Military Museum to the Saudi Daily Life Museum.
Drive to Dammam, and begin a day’s tour at the heritage village. Make your way around the jewellery, silks and ceramics stalls of Share Al Hob souq before dipping into the city’s history at the Aljowhara Museum.
Half an hour from Dammam in Qatif is Tarout Island, home to Tarout Fort, the base of which dates back to 5000 BC. Local guides will take you on a tour of the castle, and explain the best ways to experience the rest of the village and the island’s other historic sites.
Make the journey to Jeddah to explore the impact the blend of Arab, Ottoman and Persian cultures has had on its famous landmarks. From the latticed windows of Al-Rawashin to the striking historic houses of Unesco World Heritage Site Al Balad, old-style architectural gems abound among the more modern malls and complexes. Discover more about the city’s history at the Tayebat Museum.
The futuristic face of Saudi architecture awaits 100km up the coast at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC). Wander through this modern metropolis, making time to explore the arts districts and stopping for a visit to the Museum of Science and Technology.
Further up the coast lies the port city of Yanbu, with its historical harbour area and former residence of T E Lawrence. The latter has been turned into a fascinating museum offering an insight into the legendary British officer’s amazing story. Explore the museum and busy night markets on the final leg of your journey.
Day 1 – Have a lakeside picnic
Day 2 – Swim underground
Day 3 – Discover the Hidden Canyon
Day 4 – Hike a prehistoric landscape
Day 5 – See the sealife
Day 6 – Go on a subaquatic safari
Day 7 – Discover the dunes
Make for the ocean by car, stopping off at Wahba Crater – about a two-hour drive north of Taif – on your way. Set up camp by one of the many streams that flow through the surrounding palm forests, lace up a pair of hardy boots and strike out into this gorgeous, prehistoric natural landscape.
From the thriving art scene to festivals and live music, go on a literal culture trip with this enriching itinerary
Destination 1 – Explore incredible Abha
Destination 2 – Discover the Gingerbread Village
Destination 3 – Head to an art hub
Destination 4 – Achieve #museumgoals
Destination 5 – Have an architectural adventure
Destination 6 – Have a crafternoon
Destination 7 – Find a festival
Your trip begins in the city of Abha in the Asir province. At the centre of the city is the historical village of Al-Muftaha, an 18th-century settlement of colourful mud-walled houses, theatres and heritage buildings. Explore this eclectic site before visiting the Shadda Palace. Built in 1927, the palace is now home to a museum and is one of a number of old hilltop fortresses that characterise Abha.
Time for some mountain culture with a visit to Rijal Almaa, an hour and a half’s drive east of Abha. This historically significant village is one of the most beautiful and fascinating places in Saudi thanks to its intriguing architecture, remarkable surroundings and rich heritage. Explore the museum and chat with locals on a relaxed amble through this treasure trove of a village.
Stick with the mountains on day three with a visit to Al Soudah National Park. Take the cable car down through the clouds to El Sahab Park for a visit to Shada Castle and a stroll through Al Muftaha Art Village, a local progressive artists’ district in the centre surrounded by beautiful Asirian buildings.
Stay in Riyadh, and start the day with a trip to the former residence of King Abdulaziz, Murabba Palace. Visit the architectural masterpiece that is Al Rajhi Grand Mosque, then check the schedule at King Fahd International Stadium, where culture lovers can catch everything from spectacular live music and sports events to productions of Cirque Du Soleil.
Head to the outskirts of Riyadh to the nearby heritage town of Ad Diriyah. Wander through Al Bujairi, whose labyrinthine alleyways are dotted with little cafes and craft shops and take a turn around the Diriyah Museum and The Museum of Al Saud House.
End your cultural journey with a visit to Jeddah. The city hosts regular festivals throughout the year, the centre-piece being Jeddah Season. This month-long celebration of Saudi culture and heritage features a packed schedule of events, from city walks and art installations to immersive and VR experiences.
Day 1 – Immerse yourself in Saudi culture
Day 2 – Head to historic locales
Day 3 – Tour the souq
Day 4 – Explore a fort
Day 5 – Go on an architectural journey
Day 6 – Step into the future
Day 7 – Learn about Lawrence of Arabia
Make the journey to Jeddah to explore the impact the blend of Arab, Ottoman and Persian cultures has had on its famous landmarks. From the latticed windows of Al-Rawashin to the striking historic houses of Unesco World Heritage Site Al Balad, old-style architectural gems abound among the more modern malls and complexes.
From haute cuisine to street eats and café culture, edify body and soul with this foodie itinerary
Destination 1 – Try traditional cuisine
Destination 2 – Festival food
Destination 3 – Sample the seafood
Destination 4 – Visit a rooftop restaurant
Destination 5 – Fill up at the fruit market
Destination 6 – Have some haute cuisine
Destination 7 – Sample the street food
Start your culinary journey in Jeddah for a taste of authentic Saudi cuisine. At Taibat Al Hijaz you can fill up on their famous Hejazi breakfast platters, featuring everything from shakshuka (poached eggs and tomato) and kebda (liver with herbs) to motabag (thin layer of bread with minced meat, eggs and leaks) and ful (fava bean stew). Walk it off with a wander around Souq of Khans, picking at the delicious Saudi street food as you go.
Time your visit to coincide with Jeddah Season and spend day two exploring the various pop-ups and festival-specific restaurants. Head to the Jeddah Yacht Club for incredible Sri Lankan inspired delicacies at Hoppers or French cuisine at Le Comptoir De Nicole. For incredible seafood, try Karamna Bahr on Jeddah Art Promenade, or for a quick bite grab a burger at Burger Circus on City Walk.
Dedicate today to exploring the inimitable sky-blue warehouse of Jeddah’s Central Fish Market. Select some of the best fish, lobster and shrimp in the region from one of the many bustling stands and take it to one of the nearby market restaurants, who will de-bone, clean and cook it up for you.
Drive two hours in-land to Taif for a one-of-a-kind brunch at Bohoo – don’t miss the Hejazi Shakshoka, the triple cheese omelette, leaving room for the Masoub (Banana, bread, cream and honey, topped with mascarpone). Take some afternoon coffee at Tales before an unforgettable dinner at Revolving Restaurant at the top of the Awaliv International Hotel skyscraper. Magnificent views and sensational food.
Breakfast at Mila in Taif is your first port of call today. Enjoy crepes, waffles and a delicious frappuccino in this beautifully designed, popular cafe. Wander along the brightly coloured stalls of the Taif Fruit Market and pick up some peaches, pomegranates, grapes and dates before a dinner of traditional kebabs at Mabshoor Taif.
Take a flight to Saudi’s capital, Riyadh. Treat yourself to a traditional lunch at Najd Village and be sure to have the Meat Moqalqal with markouk bread, the succulent chicken badia or, if there are three of you, a village-themed sharing platter of everything from qursan, laban and sambousek, to chicken or beef kabsa. Stretch the legs with a walks around the glittering goods at Taibah Souq and settle in to a fine-dining dinner with exemplary hospitality at Al Orjuan at the Ritz Carlton hotel.
Make today about the capital’s sensational street food. Seek out Surprise Street Food, a pop up truck serving traditional food with a healthy twist. Call in at any of the many street food specialty shops to try yughmish (leavened bread parcels filled with meat), falafel, mantu (asian influenced meat dumplings) and luqaimat (delicious donut balls). Cap off your food adventure with The Banquet of Hoshen, a two-hour immersive fine-dining experience at the Mariott Riyadh Hotel on King Saud Road. Expect six exquisite courses paired with an engrossing, multisensory performance.
Day 1 – Explore incredible Abha
Day 2 – Discover the Gingerbread Village
Day 3 – Head to an art hub
Day 4 – Achieve #museumgoals
Day 5 – Have an architectural adventure
Day 6 – Have a crafternoon
Day 7 – Find a festival
Take a flight to the capital Riyadh. Dedicate some time to exploring arguably the most important museum in Saudi, the National Museum, then stroll around the nearby park. Go to Deira Souk to soak up the vibrant atmosphere and peruse the stalls of copper products, before a visit to one of the largest mosques in the capital, Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque.
Stay in Riyadh, and start the day with a trip to the former residence of King Abdulaziz, Murabba Palace. Visit the architectural masterpiece that is Al Rajhi Grand Mosque, then check the schedule at King Fahd International Stadium, where culture lovers can catch spectacular live music and sports events.
