Saudi Arabia is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage. Ever since the country opened its doors to tourism, people have been thronging to the nation to revel in its beautiful surroundings. From the urbanscape of Riyadh to the desertscape of AlUla, the landscape does shift dramatically. So, here’s a complete guide on how you can plan a five-day trip to Saudi Arabia. Scroll on!
Riyadh
Once you land in Riyadh, you can spend two days and one night in the city. The hotels here are available for a varied budget. Start for as low as SAR129.05 for a night, the tariff will differ on the basis of locality, amenities and the kind of properties you would want to stay.
What To See
1. Visit The National Museum
Since the history of Islam is the major focus, it comprises 10 galleries and courtyards. In fact, there’s also a section which houses fancy cars and other belongings that once belonged to the founding king of Saudi Arabia.
Where: 8745 King Saud Rd, 2722, King Faisal Road, Riyadh
When: 9 am to 7 pm (Saturday, Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday) and 2 pm to 10 pm (Thursday to Friday)
Entry: Free
2. Visit Al Kharrarah National Park
This is a blissful sanctuary where you can escape from the crowded city and you can relax and sit amid nature. With a lush landscape, sand dunes, and a lake formed from rainfall, this place is worth a visit.
Where: South of Al Muzahimiyah Governorate, West of Riyadh
Entry: Free
3. Explore The Al-Subaie Palace
Located in the Old Town, Al-Subaie Palace is one of the most significant historical palaces in the kingdom.
Where: Al-Shagra, Riyadh
Entry: Free
Where To Eat
There are multiple restaurants in Riyadh that offer everything from traditional food to international fare. From SUSHISAMBA and Saddle House to La Petite Maison and COYA, there are several places to visit. Moreover, the cost for two is an average of SAR150-200 (approx.) for one person.
Jeddah
After your stay in Riyadh, you can book a flight to Jeddah, which generally starts at SAR431.13 by flynas. The Red Sea city has plenty of sites that are worth a visit. In fact, once you’ve landed, do check into a hotel that suits your budget best. These can start for as low as SAR97.42, which is quite a steal!
What To See
Experiences
1. Jeddah Heritage Tour Unveiling History & Culture
Taking people on a rich history and cultural heritage of the city, the stories of the past allow visitors to marvel at the architectural wonders here.
Cost per person: SAR480
2. Red Sea Diving Adventure
With the abundance of colourful coral reefs, the hidden and enchanting world in the sea makes it a wonderful experience that’s worth savouring.
Cost per person: SAR705
Make sure to visit the historical lanes of the Al Balad District, which offer you a window into the past. Entry: FreePlaces To Visit
3. Visit The Al Balad District
4. Explore The Jeddah Corniche
One of the best places to visit, the beautiful corniche is truly a great site to visit with your friends and family.
Entry: Free
Where To Eat
Just like Riyadh, this place also has multiple eateries where you can drop by for a scrumptious meal. However, since this is a port city, you have to relish seafood, as the options will you spoilt for choice. Some of the popular restaurants worth checking out here are The Waterfront Kitchen, The Cheesecake Factory, MANKO Jeddah, Hareed Restaurant, and Alsaddah, to name a few.
Also Read: Saudi Arabia Has The World’s Largest Copy Of Quran At The Newly-Opened Holy Quran Museum, Makkah
AlUla
With flights from Jeddah costing about SAR737.86, AlUla is one of the premier destinations in Saudia Arabia that warrants your attention. The lowest tariff of the hotels start for just SAR174.37, these are generally for those located a little away from AlUla. However, if you’re looking for something that’s nearer to the desert and the beautiful natural surroundings, you will probably set back by approx SAR1,062 for a night.
What To See
Experiences
1. Ride In A Hot Air Balloon
It’s truly one of the best ways to experience the beauty of this ancient expansive desert. The experience is something that you wouldn’t want to miss. After all, you get a splendid aerial view of the surrounding landscape
Cost: SAR1295 (for shared experience)
Since you’re staying overnight, a great way to explore the desert is to take a night hike under the blanket of twinkling stars. Advance bookings are required for this, and it can easily be done online.2. Hiking Under The Stars
Cost: SAR239
Places To Visit
3. Elephant Rock
This naturally shaped rock is one of the top spots that’s worth visiting in AlUla. However, there are guided tours for the same, which you might want to book in advance! Typically costing about SAR208, these tours allow you to properly explore the site.
4. Hegra
A relic of the ancient Nabataean Kingdom, the captivating tombs of Hegra are an example of ancient engineering and craftsmanship. Guided tours are the best way to explore, as even if you pay for the entry, your tour guide will take you across the site and inform you all about it.
Entry: SAR95 (Adults)
Where To Eat
There are multiple resorts and hotels here where you can eat. For Instance, Maraya Social offers a beautiful view of the surrounding desertscape. But most of these places require booking in advance, and this could be as early as 2-3 months! So, if you wish to eat at such places, you might want to make bookings in advance.
So, with the whole itinerary for you, make sure to book your tickets and explore the beauty of Saudi Arabia!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva