Situated in the central part of the Arabian Peninsula, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s modern capital, is a significant financial and commercial centre, extending on a desert plateau. It gives you a window into Arabia’s past and future by fusing modern dynamism with ancient heritage.
With flynas booking, you can find the lowest airfare to Riyadh using the low-fare finder on a leading travel website and explore the rich heritage and historical architecture of the place visiting the museums, parks, art galleries, and souqs. Further, we are pleased to give you an ideal four-day itinerary to help you make a fruitful visit.
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Day 1 – Morning – Visit Diriyah
Located in the northwest of Riyadh, Diriyah is an ancient town under UNESCO protection, for it holds much significance for being the cradle of the modern Saudi kingdom. Founded in 1446 AD as the first capital, it saw centuries of expansion and wealth.
You will admire the majestic mud-brick palaces of ancient neighbourhoods like Bujairi and At-Turaif as you tour this place. This town may be delightfully old, but the picturesque streets come to life during events like Diriyah Season, a spectacular cultural celebration.
Afternoon – Enjoy the views at the edge of the world
A quick drive south of glittering Riyadh transports you to a breathtaking expanse of red dunes. These natural marvels are a must-see on any itinerary visiting Riyadh; they’re also a fantastic place for a quad bike ride or a safari on a camel.
After a little more distance, you will reach the supposedly “Hidden Valley.” This is one of the best hiking trails in the area, with towering rock formations and nearly magical greenery that emerges from natural springs beneath the arid sand. Visit Taibah Souq, one of Riyadh’s oldest souks, afterward. It is where you can shop for jewellery, antiques, and other necessities.
Evening – Visit the National Museum of Saudi Arabia
The museum features intriguing displays of Islamic and Arabian art and architecture. Encased in modernist architecture, the two floors of the building house eight well-designed educational galleries devoted to the history, culture, and art of the Arabian Peninsula.
Day 2 – Morning – Start your day visiting Al Faisaliah Tower
The Al Faisaliah Tower is a must-visit attraction in Riyadh, being a commercial complex. The tower, which has 55 levels and an extended pyramidal shape, is 267 metres high and has stained glass walls and a large glass globe. The Sky shopping mall, residences, dining establishments, offices, and an observation deck are all located in the skyscraper.
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At the summit of the Al Faisaliah Tower, you can have breakfast or tea at the Globe Restaurant. Offering a variety of dishes from modern European cuisine, you have a lot of options. You can then go to Ain Heet, a cave that has internal chambers, which house an underground lake. Deep inside the cave, you can find a lake with crystal-clear waters, where you can swim.
Afternoon – Explore Riyadh Zoo
More than 1,300 creatures from 190 species call Riyadh Zoo home, and they are housed in six protected areas. You can easily reach the place in the Al Malaz district in Riyadh, but make sure to reserve your tickets in advance. Other than the animals, the zoo offers a large amount of green space and picturesque views, making it an especially great destination for families.
Evening – Head to Al Bujairi Heritage Park
Located at the centre of old Diriyah, Al Bujairi Heritage Park offers a lively atmosphere and a plethora of tourist activities, such as kid-friendly rides, food vendors, a market, painting, outdoor events, and many workshops that teach a wide range of crafts, such as calligraphy and ceramics.
Day 3 – Morning – Explore the Kingdom Centre
The 300-metre-tall Kingdom Centre Tower, one of the busiest and most vibrant locations in the city, is a representation of contemporary Riyadh. It culminates in an inverted catenary arch supported by a glass sky bridge observatory and comprises offices, a five-star hotel, opulent apartments, and condominiums. Two symmetrical wings at the foot of the tower encircle the city to the east and west.
Afternoon – Visit King Abdulaziz Historical Centre after lunch at Mama Nour
You can have lunch at Mama Noura, which offers a unique eating experience that retains the rich flavours of Saudi Arabian food.
Visit the King Abdulaziz Historical Centre afterwards. This institution is renowned for its exquisite architecture and eight “Exhibition Halls,” each of which is centred around a distinct period of the region’s history and provides a more in-depth look at Saudi Arabia’s past and present.
Evening – Make a trip to Wadi Hanifa
The stunning valley of Wadi Hanifa stretches around 120 km from the capital’s northwest to southeast. The valley, which lies outside of the capital, is a popular tourist destination because it features picnic areas, green spaces, footpaths, and water channels where people can take in the picturesque views of farms and orchards.
Day 4 – Morning – Visit Al Rajhi Grand Mosque
One awe-inspiring example of contemporary Islamic architecture is the Al Rajhi Grand Mosque. Up to 25,000 worshippers can fit in this largest mosque in the city, which is situated in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It is spectacular to look at, with an interior full of exquisite elements and patterns.
Afternoon – Spend time at the Riyadh Gallery Mall
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Riyadh Gallery Mall is located in the King Fahd District of Riyadh and is mostly frequented by people for shopping and entertainment. The mall, which is about 38 acres, has over 400 retailers including international brands, boutiques, department stores, and food courts in addition to live entertainment venues and a movie theatre.
Evening – Visit King Abdullah Park
Being the largest park in Riyadh, King Abdullah Park, situated south of the city centre at Al Malaz, is well-known for its beautiful gardens, expansive lawns, and dancing water fountain shows.