Riyadh, Saudi Arabia-7-day-itinerary
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization
- Morning: Arrive at King Khalid International Airport (RUH) and take a taxi or Uber to your hotel
- Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Saudi Arabia to learn about the country’s history and culture
- Evening: Explore the vibrant Tahlia Street, lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops
- Where to eat: Try some traditional Saudi cuisine at Najd Village Restaurant or Assaraya Turkish Restaurant
- Where to stay: Choose a hotel in the city center, such as the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh or The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh
Day 2: Historical Landmarks
- Morning: Visit the Masmak Fortress, a historic clay fort that played a significant role in Saudi Arabia’s unification
- Afternoon: Explore the Diriyah Governorate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and birthplace of the Saudi state
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Arabic coffee at a local cafe, such as Cafe Arabica
- Tip: Respect local customs by dressing modestly and removing your shoes when entering mosques or historical sites
Day 3: Modern Riyadh
- Morning: Visit the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), a futuristic financial hub with stunning architecture
- Afternoon: Explore the Riyadh Front, a massive development project featuring shopping, dining, and entertainment options
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Myazu, a modern Saudi restaurant serving innovative dishes
- Transportation: Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem to get around the city
Day 4: Outdoor Activities
- Morning: Visit the Riyadh Season, an annual festival featuring outdoor activities, such as a Ferris wheel and carnival games
- Afternoon: Explore the King Abdulaziz Historical Centre, which includes a museum and a beautiful garden
- Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at the Lagoona Mall, which features an indoor lake and walking paths
- Tip: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially when exploring outdoor attractions
Day 5: Shopping and Souks
- Morning: Visit the Al Faisaliyah Centre, a popular shopping mall with international brands
- Afternoon: Explore the traditional souks (markets) in the Batha District, such as Souk Al Zal and Souk Al Thumairi
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Lusin, a modern restaurant serving international cuisine
- Tip: Be prepared to haggle when shopping at traditional souks
Day 6: Day Trip to Najd Village
- Morning: Take a day trip to Najd Village, a scenic village featuring traditional architecture and stunning views
- Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at one of the village’s many restaurants, serving traditional Saudi cuisine
- Evening: Return to Riyadh and enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel or explore the nearby area
- Transportation: Book a private car and driver for the day trip, as public transportation options are limited
Day 7: Departure
- Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local market
- Afternoon: Depart for the airport and your return journey home
- Tip: Ensure you have all necessary documents, such as your exit visa, before departing the country
Things to Know
- Saudi Arabia is a conservative country; respect local customs and dress modestly
- Arabic is the official language, but many Saudis speak English, especially in tourist areas
- The weekend in Saudi Arabia is Friday and Saturday, with Sunday being a workday
- Tipping is not expected but is appreciated for good service
Transportation
- Taxis: Available at airports and major landmarks; negotiate prices before departing
- Ride-hailing apps: Uber and Careem are popular options
- Private cars and drivers: Book in advance for day trips or longer journeys
Tips
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially when exploring outdoor attractions
- Respect local customs and dress modestly
- Be prepared to haggle when shopping at traditional souks
- Learn some basic Arabic phrases, such as “Shukraan” (thank you) and “As-salamu alaykum” (hello)
I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia!