Five ideas for guided tours in Saudi Arabia

• Riyadh, the city that mixes tradition and modernity

  Riyadh , the capital is both the epicenter of tradition and modernity. Located in the middle of the desert, it is an oasis of development and culture. If you plan to visit this city, here are some places you can’t miss:
  – The Kingdom Tower: This 302-meter tower is the highest point in Riyadh. It offers a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.
  – The National Museum of Saudi Arabia: This museum is a treasure trove for those interested in the history and culture of the kingdom. It houses collections spanning the pre-Islamic and Islamic eras, as well as arts and crafts.
  – Diriyah Historic District: The old city is a place where you can experience Riyadh’s traditional architecture. The narrow streets, mud houses and fortifications bear witness to the city’s history.
  – Murabba Palace: Located in Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter, Murabba Palace is an example of modern Saudi architecture. It houses a museum that tells the history of the city and contemporary art exhibitions.
  – King Fahd National Park: Located on the outskirts of the city, this national park is an ideal place for families to relax. It offers green spaces, children’s playgrounds, artificial lakes and hiking trails.

• Dariya, a cultural oasis

  Dariya is a historic city located 20 km northwest of Riyadh. This ancient city is known for its clay brick houses, narrow streets, bridges and canals. Visitors can admire the traditional Saudi architecture and learn about the city’s history by visiting the Dariya Museum. This museum houses historical artifacts, handicraft tools, jewelry and traditional costumes. One of the main points of interest in the city is the Salwa Palace. This Ottoman-style palace, built in 1829, is located on the banks of the Wadi Hanifa River. Visitors can explore the palace and its lush gardens, as well as stroll along the river to enjoy the view of the city.
  The city of Dariya is also famous for its traditional market, where visitors can buy handicrafts, spices and traditional clothing. The market is a great place to learn about the local culture and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city.

• Medina

  Medina, the second holiest city in Islam, is located in the heart of Saudi Arabia and attracts millions of pilgrims from all over the world every year. But it is not only a place of pilgrimage, it is also a city rich in history, culture and architecture.
  The Prophet’s Mosque is the center of the city and the most sacred place for Muslims. With its majestic architecture, it is a place of prayer and meditation for pilgrims. Nearby, you can visit the Baqi Cemetery, where the graves of the Prophet’s family members and closest companions are located. As you walk through the streets of the old city, you will discover beautiful historical buildings such as the Qasr Al-Hukm Palace, a white stone building built in 1926, or the Medina Public Library, which houses thousands of ancient books. Also, don’t miss visiting Medina’s market, the Al-Madina Souk, where you will find a wide variety of local handicrafts, spices, fabrics and more. The bustling streets and enticing smells will give you a taste of Saudi culture.
  For a relaxing experience, head to Uhud Park, where you can stroll through the gardens and take in the views of the city. Or, take time to relax in one of the city’s many traditional cafes, where you can enjoy a cup of Arabic coffee and sweet pastries.

• Taif, the city of love, roses and history

  Welcome to Taif, a city located in the region of Makkah. Taif is known for its lush gardens, panoramic mountain views and fascinating history.
  One of the must-see places to visit in Taif is the Shubra Palace Garden. It is a lush park filled with palm trees, fountains, and formal gardens. There is also Al Rudaf Park which offers a spectacular view of the city and the surrounding mountains. The old city of Taif, called Shubra, is another historical place not to be missed. You can see the remains of the Taif citadel and historic stone buildings. Taif is also famous for its flower production. You can visit the rose market in Taif to see the different types of roses grown in the area. The Taif Rose Festival takes place every year and is a popular event for visitors and locals alike.

• Jeddah

  Located on the Red Sea, Jeddah is the most cosmopolitan city in Saudi Arabia. This vibrant city offers a combination of modernity and tradition that attracts tourists from all over the world. Jeddah has a rich history and unique tourist attractions that are worth exploring.
  The historic district of Al-Balad is filled with coral buildings, watchtowers and mosques that bear witness to the city’s rich cultural heritage. Al-Alawi Street is one of the most popular streets in Al-Balad, with its traditional stores selling clothes and jewelry. For a panoramic view of the city, don’t miss the Jeddah Tower, also known as King Fahd Tower. This 300-meter high tower offers a breathtaking view of the city and the Red Sea. It is located near the Jeddah Corniche, a seaside promenade popular with locals and tourists alike. Art lovers should not miss the Jeddah Art Museum, located in the upscale Al Hamra neighborhood. The museum houses a collection of over 600 works of modern and contemporary art by local and international artists. The museum also organizes temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
  Finally, don’t leave Jeddah without visiting the Floating Mosque, also known as the Fatima Al-Zahra Mosque. This unique mosque is built on a floating platform in the Red Sea and offers a breathtaking view of the city and the sea.