Saudi Arabia Itinerary – Best Places to See in 1 Week

Saudi Arabia is a country that recently opened to tourism in 2019. A country with outstanding landscapes and amazing people. If you are thinking to visit Saudi Arabia, you won’t regret the decision. In this post I will share a one week Saudi Arabia itinerary that we did which will get you experience country’s different flavors. From modern cities to countryside farms, Saudi Arabia is packed with a rich history that you won’t want to miss. Let’s begin our journey!

🗓️ Day 1: Arrive in Jeddah, drive to Medina

The first day of this Saudi Arabia itinerary you arrive in Jeddah. Depending on your arrival, you might have time to stroll through the city. Since we rented a car and the distances between the cities are quite large, we chose to directly go to Medina which is a 4 hour drive. We took one night accommodation in Medina.

The initial plan was flying to Jeddah and flying back from Riyadh, but our return flight got cancelled and we had no choice but to re-book flight from Jeddah. If you have the option, we recommend first seeing Jeddah and returning from Riyadh or the other way around. This will give you an extra day for visiting.

Where to stay in Medina? 🛌

There are quite a few options at walking distance from Prophet’s Mosque. We chose an apartment only 8 minutes away from the city center which also had parking space nearby.

🗓️ Day 2: Medina, drive to Al Ula

Medina is the second holiest city in Islam after Mecca. It’s the place where prophet Muhammad came from Mecca to escape the persecution in 622.

Al Masjid an Nabawi (Prophet’s Mosque) 📍

After moving to Medina, prophet Muhammad build a Mosque the same year, known today as The Prophet’s Mosque which also serves as his burial place. Muslims usually visit this place at least once in their lifetime during their pilgrimage.

As we are not Muslims, we had the chance to see the mosque only from the outside. It’s truly an outstanding building.

Mount Uhud 📍

Mount Uhud is a prominent landmark in Medina that holds historical and religious significance. Rising majestically on the outskirts of the city, this mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Known for its rocky terrain and diverse flora, Mount Uhud is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. It is also a place of great importance in Islamic history, as it was the site of the famous Battle of Uhud. You can explore this sacred mountain trails, visit the Uhud Martyrs Cemetery and take in the serene atmosphere that surrounds this iconic place.

How to get around in Medina? 👣

To get around Medina, there are a couple of convenient options. One way is to take advantage of the hop-on hop-off buses that operate within the city. These buses provide an easy and affordable way to explore the different landmarks and attractions in Medina.

Another option is to use a car and park in the designated parking spots available throughout the city. This gives you the flexibility to navigate at your own pace and visit specific places of interest. Whether you prefer the convenience of a bus or the freedom of your own vehicle, both options allow you to comfortably explore the beautiful city of Medina.

Where to park in Medina? 🅿️

Parking near the center can be a challenge at peak hours, but we found parking spots on King Fahd Road in front of Prophet’s Mosque or on the adjacent roads nearby. There are also parking lots nearby or even beneath the mosque, but we chose to park on this location.

Where to eat in Medina? 🍽️

As it was close the our accommodation, we chose to eat at Al-Noor Mall. It has a food court with plenty of options even for vegetarians like us. You can also do some shopping since you are already there.

🗓️ Day 3 & 4: Al Ula

After seeing Medina, we headed to Al Ula which is a 4 hour driving trip. Al Ula is one of the oldest cities, dating back from 6th century BC. It was an important market city on the route between Persian Gulf and Europe. It has fertile soil and plenty of water, being ideal for agriculture as well as human settlement.

We spent the next two days of this Saudi Arabia itinerary in Al Ula, but if you have more time available, I encourage you to discover as much as you can from this place full of history. Here are the most important places you should see:

Oasis Heritage Trail 📍

With a few kilometers of paths surrounded by palm trees, Oasis Heritage Trail is the perfect place to stroll and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. You can enjoy the interesting blend between the green of the plants surrounded by the orange tinted mountains and dessert rocks.

The entrance to the oasis is free and there are no set hours of operation, but we recommend visiting in the morning or in the afternoon as the midday sun can be quite strong.

Al Ula Old Town 📍

With houses built of mud bricks and narrow paths, the old town of Al Ula really gives you a glimpse into how people lived here a few centuries ago. You can immerse yourself into the history of Al Ula and enjoy shopping local handicrafts and good food on the way.

AlJadidah Arts District 📍

AlJadidah Arts Districts offers you an immersive experience into art on every form. From the walls of the buildings to the world’s largest hand-painted carpet below your feet, AlJadidah Arts Districts showcases the many design initiatives across the area inspired by traditional patterns.

You can also visit Al Ula Public Library to spend some time browsing books in multiple languages.

Vessel Hole Rock 📍

Vessel Hole Rock is an unique rock formation which stands tall, resembling a vessel with a hole at the center. The rock’s distinct shape has earned it the name Vessel Hole Rock and has become a popular attraction for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. It is a must-visit for those craving a unique and memorable experience amidst nature’s breathtaking creations.

Harrat Viewpoint 📍

Harrat Viewpoint is the best place to see Al Ula from above and enjoy a beautiful sunset. As we were the lucky ones to catch 2 days of rain out of the average 10 days per year, because the road to Harrat Viewpoint was covered by rocks brought by the water flowing from the hills, unfortunately we couldn’t get there. But I can totally recommend the experience, you can get a taste for it here.

Maraya 📍

Nested in the middle of beautiful landscapes of Al Ula, Maraya is the world’s largest mirrored building. It blends with nature in an unique way, at some times of the day the structure of the building being perfectly aligned with the surrounding mountains.

Maraya is where many events and concerts take place. You can also book a reservation to Maraya Social, a Michelin Start restaurant which offers European cuisine in a sharing format so that you can experience many dishes from the menu.

Elephant Rock 📍

Elephant Rock was shaped by years of erosion and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Al Ula. You can enjoy some delicious food there near a fire pit to warm up on cool desert nights while enjoying the special illuminated rock.

After eating, we went to a road nearby in order to get away from the lights and star gazed in the beautiful landscape surrounded by rock hills.

You can get to Elephant Rock within 20 minutes of driving from Al Ula’s Old Town and it has free parking. Keep in mind that it usually opens in the evening, but even if you get there earlier, you can still see the “elephant in the room” from distance 🙂.

Dadan & Jabal Ikmah 📍

Dadan & Jabal Ikmah are two captivating historical sites located in the northwestern region of Saudi Arabia. Dadan, an ancient Arabian city, offers a glimpse into the prosperous civilizations that once thrived in the Arabian Peninsula. This archaeological site showcases impressive ruins, including temples, tombs and houses, revealing the rich cultural heritage of the area.

On the other hand, Jabal Ikmah, a majestic mountain nearby, boasts remarkable rock formations and inscriptions carved into its cliffs. It is said to have served as a gathering place for ancient Arabian tribes and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Exploring Dadan & Jabal Ikmah is like stepping back in time, immersing oneself in the intriguing past of the Arabian Peninsula.

To visit Dadan & Jabal Ikmah, you should book a tour in advance here.

Hegra 📍

Situated 500km south from Petra (Jordan) which was the capital on Nabatean empire, Hegra was an important trade hub. Part of UNESCO World Heritage, it is the largest conserved site of the civilization of Nabataeans.

Hegra features well preserved monumental tombs carved from desert rock dating back from the 1st century BC. This was the place where important people from Nabataeans tribe were laid after death. It is impressive to see how much work was required to make these tombs, some of the rocks being a few stories high. It’s easily accessible by car and a must see in Saudi Arabia.

Al Ula Stairway 📍

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, you can try Al Ula Stairway. It’s a 45-meter wire cable ladder which offers a great panorama view while climbing it. Then, you can descend on a zipline while enjoying the wind and the natural scenery as you are sliding towards the ground.

Where to park in Al Ula? 🅿️

You can park your car near Al Ula Old Town. There is a free parking lot on the south of it and an electric vehicle will take you a few hundred meters to the old town.

At the north of Al Ula Old Town you can use the parking lot from Starbucks for free, as this is closer to old town center. There is also a free north parking lot, but you’ll have to walk more from here.

Where to eat in Al Ula? 🍽️

We chose to eat at Fresh House, a healthy food restaurant located in Al Ula Old Town. They have a wide range of options, from poke bowls to Mexican wraps and fresh juices. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch or dinner, I highly recommend this place.

Apart from this, you can always find some interesting options in the local supermarkets. We tried quite a few local made products and they were delicious, especially the ones made with dates.

Where to stay in Al Ula? 🛌

We wanted to experience the most we could from the life as a local, so we chose to stay near Al Ula at a farm. We were greeted by two brothers who invited us in a tent until our house was ready and served us with arabic tea and dates. While they didn’t know English very well, they were so kind to show us where they live nearby.

We highly recommend this accommodation if you want to see a glimpse of people’s life here.

🗓️ Day 5: Riyadh

Riyadh is the capital of Saudi Arabia and also the largest city in the country. After recapturing Riyadh and returning to it with his family in 1902, King Abdulaziz continued the unification of the regions in Arabian Peninsula until 1932 when The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was formed through a royal decree.

Riyadh is an 11-hour drive from Al Ula. Basically, we’ve been on the road a whole day just to reach the capital of Saudi Arabia. We’ve also seen beautiful landscapes on the way, but because of this, we only had one day (and one evening) to spend in Riyadh. If you have the possibility, we recommend taking a 2-hour flight from Al Ula to Riyadh to save time. Just be careful with your planning as the flight is not everyday.

Riyadh combines historical places with modern buildings in a unique way, giving you a different taste than what you’ve experienced until now in this Saudi Arabia itinerary. Let’s see some of the things you must visit in Riyadh:

Masmak Fort 📍

Masmak Fort, also known as Masmak Fortress or Masmak Palace, is a clay and mud brick historical building, being the main theatre for the Battle of Riyadh in 1902 which let to the unification of Saudi Arabia as we know it today.

Situated in the center of Riyadh (the old city) and part of modern Deira district, it is now opened as a museum which you can visit.

Historic Diriyah Fort 📍

Diriyah is the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and was home to the Al Saud family in 18th century. It’s a place full of history and inspiring stories, part of UNESCO World Heritage from 2010.

Diriyah Fort was build by Imam Abdul Aziz ibn Saud, the second ruler of the Emirate of Diriyah. It was build mainly using mud bricks, wood and straw. This blend of materials offers an unique display of the buildings, giving you a perspective on how people lived here in the past.

There are a few museums you can visit like Diriyah Museum, Horse Museum, Military Museum and Social Life Museum. I recommend taking a tour guide from inside of the fort, it’s free and they will take you through the streets and explain the rich history of this place. There are also a lot of great places where you can eat or just relax and enjoy this wonderful display. Note that it can get quite crowded in the evening.

Alsafat Square (Deera Square) 📍

Also known as Justice Square or informally as “Chop-chop square”, Deera Square is the historic site for public executions in Saudi Arabia, those sentenced to death were publicly beheaded here. Although Saudi Arabia is still the only country with legal capital punishment by decapitation, the executions are no longer carried out in public.

In these days, the square is hosting cultural events as we’ve seen when we were visiting, but it’s still known for it’s dark side of executions. Justice is very important even today for Saudis, a proof to this being the sword on Saudi Arabia’s flag.

Edge of The World 📍

Edge of The World is a must see if you are in Riyadh. It’s a 1100+ meters height cliff that offers a spectacular view at sunset. On the way, you can also explore The Hidden Cave. This half day trip starts around noon from the city and you will return after sunset. You still have time in the morning and in the evening to visit Riyadh.

If you want to take the easy way, I recommend getting a tour for this. The road to the Edge of The World is quite bumpy and you need to know where to go. You might also reach it with a normal car, but an off-road is recommended, high ground clearance definitely helps.

If you want to take it on your own, here is the GPX route we took with the tour including marked points: starting location, The Hidden Cave and Edge of The World.

Al Faisaliah Tower 📍

Al Faisaliah Tower is the first skyscraper in Saudi Arabia and one of the iconic landmarks in Riyadh. Also known as the Star Dome, the building has a premium restaurant inside the sphere named “The Globe” which offers a panoramic view of the city.

You can book a table at the restaurant or you can just go to the observation deck below the sphere to enjoy the view of Riyadh city. There is a fee if you choose the observation deck.

Kingdom Centre Tower 📍

Another important landmark in Riyadh is Kingdom Centre Tower. It was completed in 2002 and took the height from Al Faisaliah Tower which was previously the tallest building in the country.

Depending on your preference, you can choose to go up to Kingdom Centre Tower or to Al Faisaliah Tower, as we did. They both offer a great panorama over the city.

Where to park in Riyadh? 🅿️

If you rent a car, you’re probably wondering where to park in Riyadh. Depending on the location, you can usually park on the street. Also, malls have free parking on the ground or underground parking.

We parked in a few different spots like Kingdom Centre Mall. When we visited Al Faisaliah Tower, we searched a bit for parking, but found some spots on the streets nearby. You can also try Olaya Towers Parking nearby. For Historic Diriyah Fort there are a few parking lots like Bujairi Parking or you can use the street parking here.

Where to eat in Riyadh? 🍽️

When getting Diriyah Access Pass, the value of the ticket can be redeemed at any restaurant or café inside the fort. We were recommended by our guide a place called Joe & The Juice where you have different options of shakes, juices, sandwiches and salad bowls. We were very happy with the vegetarian options we got and can totally recommend this place, but you can also try other restaurants inside the fort.

If you have the chance, visit Najd Village. This charming village offers an authentic cultural experience and is renowned for its mouthwatering traditional dishes bursting with flavors and spices.

We also tried some options at the food court inside Kingdom Centre Mall. In general, the food in Saudi Arabia is very good. Even fast foods don’t actually give you the feeling of a typical fast food; they seem to be prepared with more care, aspiring to healthy food. Definitely try different Saudi Arabian dishes.

Where to stay in Riyadh? 🛌

For the 2 nights in Riyadh we booked this hotel. It is well positioned from the main objectives in the city and has free parking.

🗓️ Day 6 & 7: Jeddah

Jeddah is about 10 hours driving from Riyadh. We did it by car and basically spent a day commuting between the cities, but on the positive side we experienced driving in the middle of the wild dessert with sand storms and camels. If you want to shorten your commuting time, you can improve your Saudi Arabia itinerary by taking a flight between Riyadh and Jeddah, just be sure to check the schedule as there are days when there are no flights.

Depending on your arrival time, you might have a few hours in the evening to have a short walk in the city. If you’re tired, just rest and prepare to start early the next day of this Saudi Arabia itinerary. Here’s what you should see in Jeddah:

King Fahd’s Fountain 📍

King Fahd’s Fountain is a breathtaking fountain that shoots water up to an astounding height of 312 meters (1,024 feet), making it the tallest fountain in the world. It is a true marvel, especially when illuminated at night, creating a mesmerizing display of water and lights. A visit to King Fahd’s Fountain is an absolute must-see sight.

To catch a glimpse of King Fahd’s Fountain, head over to AlHamra Corniche where you can take a leisurely stroll in the evening and witness the fountain’s show.

Al-Balad 📍

Al-Balad is a historic district and a must-visit for travelers seeking a glimpse into the city’s rich heritage. With its narrow streets, traditional architecture and bustling markets, Al-Balad exudes a vibrant and authentic atmosphere. From traditional souks selling spices and textiles to coffee shops and art galleries, Al-Balad offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and contemporary experiences.

Get lost on the streets and admire the coral stone buildings, the ornate wooden balconies and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this captivating neighborhood.

Mekkah Gate 📍

Mekkah Gate is a historical landmark that holds significant cultural and religious importance. This majestic gate stands as a symbol of the city’s rich heritage and connects the modern bustling streets with its ancient past. As you approach Mekkah Gate, you’ll be greeted by its impressive architecture and intricate detailing, which showcases traditional Arabian craftsmanship.

Mekkah Gate is not only a gateway to the city but also a gateway to the history, culture, and spirituality of Arab people.

Jeddah Old Gate 📍

Jeddah Old Gate, also part of UNESCO World Heritage, dates back to the 12th century and is located on the other side of Makkah Gate. Basically, it serves as a gateway to the old town of Jeddah, along with Mekkah Gate.

Jeddah Old Gate also features traditional motifs and carvings, standing tall with its beautiful architectural details. When we visited Al-Balad, we found a little square that was used as an open air cinema near the gate. There were also a lot of places where you can eat, so definitely try some of them. Just keep in mind the streets can get very busy in the evening, it’s also worth visiting Al-Balad in the morning when there are few people outside.

Jeddah Yacht Club & Marina 📍

Jeddah Yacht Club & Marina, located on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, is a haven for travelers seeking a luxurious and thrilling maritime experience. With its state-of-the-art facilities and picturesque views, this destination is a must-visit for yacht enthusiasts and leisure seekers alike.

The marina offers a wide range of recreational activities, including sailing and scuba diving, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the crystal-clear waters. Additionally, the marina boasts an array of upscale restaurants and cafes, where you can indulge in delicious dishes while enjoying the breathtaking sunset views. Or you can just stroll along the shore and take some pictures with this awesome view.

Al Rahmah Mosque 📍

Al Rahmah Mosque is a stunning architectural marvel in Jeddah that showcases the beauty of Islamic design. Located on the shore of the Red Sea and supported by pillars, it’s also known as the Floating Mosque because it actually looks like it’s floating on the water.

Al Rahmah Mosque is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the architectural prowess of Saudi Arabia. The mosque’s grand facade, adorned with intricate calligraphy, welcomes visitors with open arms. Inside there is a spacious prayer hall, with beautifully crafted marble pillars and a mesmerizing chandelier that illuminates the space with a soft glow. Don’t forget to explore the peaceful courtyard, where you can relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere while listening to the waves of the sea.

Taif 📍

Taif is a captivating city that offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Nestled in the mountains, the city boasts a pleasant climate and breathtaking landscapes. One of the must-visit attractions is Shubra Palace, a historic palace that showcases traditional Saudi architecture. For nature enthusiasts, the Al-Hada Mountain Range is a paradise with its lush greenery, stunning viewpoints and cool weather. The city is also famous for its colorful flower market, where you can indulge in the fragrant beauty of various blooms.

Taif is a two-hour drive from Jeddah. We passed near it when we drove from Riyadh to Jeddah, just before Mecca. Unfortunately it was late and we didn’t have time to see it. If you have the chance, don’t miss it out.

Mecca (if you are Muslim) 📍

Mecca is a sacred city holding immense significance for Muslims around the world as it is the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and the holiest city in Islam. Pilgrimage to Mecca, known as Hajj, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake the journey. The city is home to the iconic Kaaba, a cube-shaped structure located in the Masjid al-Haram mosque, which is the focal point of Muslim prayer. Mecca attracts millions of pilgrims each year. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the city, and as such, we did not have the opportunity to visit Mecca.

Where to park in Jeddah? 🅿️

It can be a challenge sometimes to park in Jeddah at peak hours, but I will give you some spots you can use for parking.

When you visit Al-Balad in the evening, there is a field near the district where we’ve seen hundreds of cars parked, so you can park here. There is also a parking lot on the other side of Al-Balad. In the morning, we even found a street in the middle of Al-Balad where we left the car, but don’t count on it at peak hours.

When visiting Corniche in the morning, we used a parking lot near the shore, but in the evening it was absolutely full and we used a place on the other side of the road to park.

When visiting Marina, you can use the parking lot in front of it which is also close to Al Rahmah Mosque and F1 track.

Where & what to eat in Jeddah? 🍽️

Sugarcane juice 🍹

Sugarcane juice is a popular beverage made from extracting the liquid from sugarcane stalks. It is commonly enjoyed for its refreshing and sweet taste. To make sugarcane juice, the stalks are crushed to release the juice, which is then filtered to remove any impurities. The resulting juice is often served chilled and with limes.

Don’t miss out on trying the delicious sugarcane juice! It can be found at street vendors or juice stalls in Saudi Arabia. We took ours from this vendor in Jeddah.

Cenomi Jeddah Park 🛍️

Cenomi Jeddah Park mall’s food court offers a wide variety of tasty options to satisfy your cravings. With a mix of international fast food restaurants and authentic Arabic eateries, there is an array of delicious options available for everyone. And while you’re there, don’t forget to check out the stunning fountain display that illuminates the area, adding a touch of magic to your dining experience. You can also enjoy some shopping while you’re there.

Where to stay in Jeddah? 🛌

For our stay in Jeddah we booked an apartment at SBY Hotel. It is about 15 minutes of driving from Al Balad Historical Area and within walking distance from Cenomi Jeddah Park mall where we you could eat. It also has free parking spots.

How to get around in Saudi Arabia? 👣

Saudi Arabia has a huge territory. The distances between cities are big. If you want full flexibility, I recommend renting a car. If you you want to save time, you can take some flights between cities, but beware the flights are not everyday, so you should plan ahead your Saudi Arabia itinerary very well to make sure you have enough time for each objective.

What to eat in Saudi Arabia? 🍽️

Saudi Arabia offers a delightful culinary experience for travelers with a variety of traditional and international dishes to try. When visiting, be sure to indulge in traditional Saudi Arabian cuisine such as Kabsa, a flavorful rice dish typically served with tender meat, and Jareesh, a popular porridge made from crushed wheat and meat. Don’t miss out on trying Moutabal, a delicious eggplant dip, and Mutabbaq, a delectable pastry filled with meat or vegetables.

For those craving international flavors, Saudi Arabia also boasts a wide range of international cuisines, including mouthwatering Lebanese, Indian, and Italian dishes. From local delights to global favorites, Saudi Arabia offers a culinary adventure that will satisfy any traveler’s taste buds.

How to plan Saudi Arabia itinerary? 🗺️

When planning your Saudi Arabia itinerary, it’s important to consider a few key factors. Firstly, be mindful of the long commuting times between destinations. Saudi Arabia is a vast country, and getting from one city to another can take several hours or even a whole day by car, so plan your travel accordingly.

Additionally, keep in mind that flights to certain cities may not be available every day, so make sure to check the flight schedules and book in advance. This will help you optimize your time and ensure a smooth travel experience. With these considerations in mind, you can create a well-structured Saudi Arabia itinerary that allows you to explore the wonders of the country efficiently and enjoyably.

What is the best time to visit Saudi Arabia? ⏱

The best time to visit Saudi Arabia is during the winter months, from November to February. During this time, the weather is pleasantly mild and comfortable for exploring the country’s diverse attractions. The temperatures are not scorching hot like in the summer, making it easier to enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing.

It’s worth noting that Saudi Arabia also observes the holy month of Ramadan, which falls on different dates each year according to the Islamic calendar. If you plan to visit during Ramadan, as we did, be aware that there may be certain restrictions in terms of dining and entertainment during daylight hours. There won’t be much activity during the day, but you can use the advantage of empty streets to take great photos. Expect to get very busy in the evening as people have the traditional Ramadan meal called iftar which is served after sunset.

Overall, the winter season is ideal for travelers seeking an enjoyable and culturally vibrant experience in Saudi Arabia.

How safe is Saudi Arabia? ⚠️

Traveling to Saudi Arabia is very safe. The country has stringent security measures in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both its residents and visitors. The government takes security seriously and maintains a strong presence of law enforcement throughout the country. Tourist areas and major cities are particularly well-protected, giving travelers peace of mind. While it’s always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when traveling, Saudi Arabia offers a safe environment for tourists to explore its rich culture, stunning landscapes and historical sites.

What to expect from Saudi Arabia if you’re not a Muslim? 💭

You might have a cultural shock the first time when you visit Saudi Arabia, but don’t get discouraged by this. People are very friendly and helpful, especially in Jeddah. We were greeted on the street by random people and even requested to take photos with them. If you behave and dress decently, you will just immerse in Saudis culture and fully enjoy this Saudi Arabia itinerary as much as we did.

Want to explore more adventures? Check out the blog 📝