Schedule:
Everyday
Duration:
Approx. 6-7 hours
Pickup Time:
10:00 am – we can change the time to suit you.
Tour Prices: (By Column)
Single – 490 $
2- 3 Persons – 250 $
4-6 Persons – 245 $
7-10 Persons – 230 $
A historical tour of Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, will take you through a journey that spans centuries and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. Here’s a brief itinerary for a historical tour of Riyadh:
Day 1: Exploring Ancient Riyadh
Al-Masmak Fortress: Start your tour at the iconic Al-Masmak Fortress, a historic building that played a crucial role in the establishment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The fortress houses a museum that displays artifacts, weapons, and historical documents related to the city’s history.
Diriyah: Proceed to Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the original home of the Saudi royal family. Explore the historic mud-brick buildings, visit the Turaif district, and learn about the region’s history, architecture, and culture.
Day 2: Immersing in Culture
King Abdulaziz Historical Center: This center offers an immersive experience into the life and achievements of King Abdulaziz, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia. The museum showcases personal items, photographs, and exhibits about the king’s journey.
National Museum: Discover Saudi Arabia’s rich history at the National Museum. The museum houses a comprehensive collection of artifacts, including archaeological findings, traditional crafts, and cultural displays that highlight the country’s heritage.
Day 3: Modern Riyadh and Heritage Village
Kingdom Centre: Start the day by visiting the Kingdom Centre, an iconic skyscraper in Riyadh. While not historical in itself, it offers panoramic views of the city, allowing you to appreciate the modern architecture juxtaposed with the historical surroundings.
Janadriyah Cultural and Heritage Festival: If your visit coincides with the annual Janadriyah Festival, it’s a must-see event. This festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s heritage through traditional performances, crafts, food, and exhibitions.
Day 4: Religious Sites and Museums
Al-Musmak Mosque: Explore Al-Musmak Mosque, a modern architectural marvel that showcases traditional Islamic design elements. It’s a serene place for reflection and prayer.
Salman Ibn Abdulaziz Foundation (Misk Museum): Learn about the modern cultural and social initiatives of Saudi Arabia at the Misk Museum. The museum features interactive displays and exhibitions related to art, culture, and innovation.
Day 5: Shopping and Souvenirs
Souq Al Zal: Wrap up your historical tour with a visit to Souq Al Zal, a traditional market where you can find various handicrafts, textiles, spices, and local products.
Remember that while exploring historical sites, it’s important to respect local customs and dress codes. Saudi Arabia has a conservative culture, so dressing modestly is recommended, especially when visiting religious sites.
Please note that the availability of attractions and opening hours may change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest information before planning your trip.
The National Museum, Murraba Palace, Al Zal mareket, Al Masmak, Kingdom tower & Imam turki bin abdullah mosque
Your Tour leader/driver will be awaiting you. They will be holding a sign of your name, You do not need to look for them – they will be waiting for you and will find you.
From the moment your tour starts, your tour leader will give you full attention. Once in the car, your tour leader will talk to you about all the things on the way as well as other aspects of your tour that will interest you
Your Tour leader/driver will be awaiting you. They will be holding a sign of your name, You do not need to look for them – they will be waiting for you and will find you.
From the moment your tour starts, your tour leader will give you full attention. Once in the car, your tour leader will talk to you about all the things on the way as well as other aspects of your tour that will interest you.
Start your tour visiting the National Museum of Saudi Arabia which has been established in 1419 as a significant part of the king Abdulaziz historical center in Riyadh. Very impressive and important museum about the entire Saudi history, Saudi royal family, the kingdom formation, and everything regarding the political context. you will be led to numerous antiques, manuscripts, and documents that are all chronologically organized. It includes eight main halls: Hall of Man and the Universe, Arab Kingdoms, Pre-Islamic Era, Prophet’s Mission, First Saudi State, Unification of the Kingdom Hall & Hall of Hajj, and Two Holy Mosques.
The museum includes interesting examples of Arabian and Islamic art as well as architecture. The masterpieces include Prehistoric Elephant Skeleton, huge meteor found in the Empty Quarter in Saudi Arabia desert, Rock Grafitti from the Hejaz region backdate to pre Islamic era, Copy of rosetta stone, an example of Madaian Salah Rock-cut tombs.
Then enjoy the National museum park walks through the outdoor gardens one of the best gardens you will visit in Saudi Arabia. King Abdulaziz’s historical park is an open area that you can enjoy with your family. Then proceed to the Hall of King Abdulaziz where there is a showroom of old cars that were used by the king.
Then we will move to the next visit to Murraba palace is among the most important palace built by King Abdulaziz. This Palace was to accommodate his family. It was built in the local traditional Najid style by using local building materials only. enjoy amazing photos here inside Murraba palace.
Highly recommended (Optional) Saudi Lunch at Najd traditional Saudi top restaurant. The restaurant offers a convenient place rich in history and heritage and rich in delicious traditional Saudi meals. An ideal choice to enjoy the most delicious Saudi cuisine in a distinctive atmosphere that reflects the heritage and life of the beautiful past, with sittings inspired by the ancient past of Saudis.
Then you will visit Riyadh’s Souk Al-Zal, a shopping trip through time. The market can trace its history back to 1901, to the beginning of modern Saudi Arabia. It sits within a stone’s throw of the Masmak fortress – the site where, in 1902, a young Ibn Saud and a small band of his most trusted soldiers crept up after dawn prayers, rushed the gate, captured the governor, and announced the return of the Al Saud family.
A treasure trove of traditional Eastern artifacts, the souk is one of the major tourist attractions in Riyadh. The word ‘zal’ means ‘carpet’ or ‘floor rug’, referring to the patterned textiles so central to Middle Eastern imagery.
Then visit the Al Masmak, Enjoy and step back in time and explore Saudi Arabia’s roots. Fascinating exhibitions on display show maps and photographs of Saudi Arabia, alongside a range of historical artifacts, artworks and audiovisual attractions. A short documentary also re-enacts the capture of the fortress by King Abdul Aziz, whose spearhead you can still see embedded in its wooden gate.
Then you will visit Kingdom Tower or Mamlaka Tower the tallest building in the city which is located on the commercial strip in the Oalya district in Riyadh. This is the most famous tower in Riyadh. The shopping mall has lots of facilities and cafes to visit. Sky bridge Al Mamlaka at extra ticket a nice observation bridge where you can get magnificent panoramic view of the city. It has a number of restaurants and shops.
Then make a photo stop at The Imam Turki Bin Abdullah Mosque, which is a large local mosque, the architectural style is similar to that of Middle Eastern countries.
Travel in comfort back to your hotel, Riyadh has so much to see, feel, eat and buy so if you have time and want to add more to your itinerary – just let us know what you are interested in and we will arrange it for you.
Flexibility to customize your itinerary to your own preferences
All transfers by modern air-conditioned van from your hotel in Riyadh
English speaking tour leader/driver.
Entrance fees
All Service charges and taxes
Any extras
Tipping
Add on Options
Saudi Lunch at Najd traditional £60
Sky Bridge £30. (Including ticket and extra time for the car)
Upgrade to Luxury Large SUV £150