Riyadh Private Cultural City Tour and Historic Attractions
Active
5h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the historic & cultural Riyadh on this premier private guided tour. Select between a half-day or full-day option & experience the city’s top landmarks, museums, and traditional attractions with an expert guide.
Begin at Masmak Fort where you’ll walk the walls of this iconic fortress & explore its restored towers, courtyards, and historic exhibits. Your guide then takes you to Souk al Zal, one of Riyadh’s oldest traditional markets full of antiques, local apparel, & incense, offering an immersion into local heritage and craftsmanship.
Next, your guide drives you to Muraba Palace, the former Royal complex of King Abdulaziz & the King's Historical Center including the National Museum where Arabia’s history comes to life via interactive galleries, and the King Belongings & Car Museum.
For the full-day tour, you’ll end your journey at Diriyah, Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, exploring its mud brick alleys, museum, & learning about this birthplace of the First Saudi state.
Available options
Half-day tour (5.5 hours)
Duration: 5 hours<br/>Pickup included
Full-day tour with Diriyah
Duration: 9 hours: Full-day private tour including Diriyah, Bujairi terrace, Turaif, and museum, with a traditional Saudi lunch or dinner meal<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Visit and private guided tour to Murabba Palace
Professional local licensed English-speaking tour guide
All entrance fees, tickets, & parking are included with no hidden fees
Visit and private guided walking tour in Souk al Zal Market
Private comfortable air-conditioned car transport
Visit & private guided tour in Diriya, Turaif, & Bujairi (for fullday tour option)
Private Hotel/airport pickup and drop-off
Traditional Saudi lunch or dinner full meal at a local restaurant
Visit and private guided tour in Al Masmak Fortress
Visit and private guided tour to King Abdulaziz Belongings & car museum
Entry and private guided tour in the National Museum of Saudi Arabia
Visit and private guided tour in King Abdulaziz Historical Center
Visit Alsafat Deera Square, Thumairi Street, & Imam Grand Mosque
Saudi coffee, dates, and bottled water
Detailed itinerary
1
Your professional local guide will initially lead you through Al Masmak Fortress, bringing to life the dramatic 1902 recapture of Riyadh and the stories behind this iconic mud-brick stronghold.
2
Your guide walks you through Souq al Zal market , Thumairi St, and Deera square helping you explore their traditional stalls, antique treasures, and vibrant local atmosphere
3
Your tour guide then drives you to King Abdulaziz Historical Center which includes his personal belongings and Vintage Car museum, explaining their cultural significance and the Kingdom’s early development
4
Then you will be accompanied to Murabba Palace, showcasing its Najdi architecture and sharing insights into King Abdulaziz’s personal and royal life
5
After that, your tour guide leads you across the National Museum’s galleries, interpreting thousands of years of Arabian history, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.
6
If you have opted to the full-day private tour, your guide will then drive you to Diriyah and accompany you through Turaif UNESCO world heritage site and Bujairi terrace, revealing the birthplace of the Saudi state and its beautifully restored mudbrick surroundings and museum while explaining the area's history
What's not included
Personal expenses
Tips/gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
When entering to Diriyah through Bujairi, your tour guide will arrange online entry tickets for you at the gate of Bujairi terrace for the entrance staff to scan
About Riyadh
Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is a vibrant metropolis where modern skyscrapers stand alongside historic landmarks. Known for its rich cultural heritage and rapid modernization, Riyadh offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary experiences, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Al Masmak Fortress
This historic clay and mud-brick fortress played a significant role in the history of Saudi Arabia. It was the site of the Battle of Riyadh in 1902, which led to the recapture of the city by the Al Saud family.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Kingdom Centre Tower
One of the most iconic landmarks in Riyadh, the Kingdom Centre Tower offers stunning views of the city from its sky bridge. The tower is also home to luxury apartments, offices, and high-end retail stores.
Architecture
1-2 hours
Free to enter the sky bridge (SAR 35 for non-residents)
National Museum of Saudi Arabia
This world-class museum offers a comprehensive overview of Saudi Arabia's history, culture, and natural heritage. The museum is housed in a stunning building designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel.
Museum
2-3 hours
SAR 30 for adults, SAR 10 for children
Riyadh Zoo
One of the largest zoos in the Middle East, Riyadh Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and elephants. The zoo also features a playground, a mini-train, and a cafeteria.
Nature
2-3 hours
SAR 20 for adults, SAR 10 for children
Diriyah equestrian Club
This historic site is known for its traditional mud-brick architecture and its role in the history of Saudi Arabia. The equestrian club offers a unique glimpse into the country's equestrian heritage and hosts various events throughout the year.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, event tickets vary
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kabsa
A traditional Saudi dish made with spiced rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a blend of spices such as cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. The dish is often served with a side of yogurt or salad.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made with chicken, lamb, or camel
Mandi
A Yemeni-inspired dish that has become popular in Saudi Arabia. It consists of meat (usually lamb or chicken) that is marinated in a blend of spices and then slow-cooked in an underground pit. The meat is served with spiced rice and a side of sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made with lamb, chicken, or camel
Shawarma
A popular street food dish consisting of marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb) that is cooked on a vertical spit and then sliced and served in pita bread with vegetables and sauce.
Street Food
Contains meat, can be made with chicken, lamb, or beef
Foul Medames
A traditional Egyptian dish that has become popular in Saudi Arabia. It consists of cooked fava beans that are mashed and seasoned with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. The dish is often served with bread and vegetables.
Breakfast
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free
Popular Activities
Hiking
Rock climbing
Kayaking
Mountain biking
Spa and wellness treatments
Shopping
Dining
Cultural experiences
Best Time to Visit
November to February
This is the most pleasant time to visit Riyadh, with mild temperatures and comfortable conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
220VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Riyadh is generally considered a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid using them in isolated or poorly lit areas.
- • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious when using public transportation, and avoid traveling alone at night.
Getting there
By air
- King Khalid International Airport • 35 km north of the city center
By bus
Central Bus Station, Al-Masani Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The Riyadh Metro is a modern, efficient, and air-conditioned public transportation system. It is a convenient way to get around the city, especially during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Al Olaya
Al Bassah
Al Malaz
Al Tahlia
Diplomatic Quarter
Day trips
Diriyah
10 km from Riyadh • Half day to full day
Diriyah is a historic site located on the banks of the Riyadh River, about 10 km north of Riyadh. The site is known for its traditional mud-brick architecture and its role in the history of Saudi Arabia. Diriyah is also home to several museums, art galleries, and restaurants, as well as a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Al Hada Mountain
200 km from Riyadh • Full day
Al Hada Mountain is a stunning mountain range located about 200 km southwest of Riyadh, near the town of Al Aflaj. The mountain range is known for its rugged beauty, diverse wildlife, and outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing. The area is also home to several historic sites and traditional villages, offering a unique glimpse into the country's past.
Wadi Hanifah
35 km from Riyadh • Half day to full day
Wadi Hanifah is a beautiful valley located about 35 km south of Riyadh, near the town of Diriyah. The valley is known for its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. The area is also home to several historic sites and traditional villages, offering a unique glimpse into the country's past.
Festivals
Riyadh Season • Annual event, typically held in October and November
Janadriyah Festival • Annual event, typically held in February
Riyadh International Book Fair • Annual event, typically held in March
Pro tips
- Visit the Kingdom Centre Sky Bridge for stunning panoramic views of the city.
- Explore the historic site of Diriyah for a glimpse into the country's past and its rich cultural heritage.
- Experience the vibrant nightlife and dining scene in the Al Olaya and Al Tahlia neighborhoods.
- Take a day trip to the Edge of the World for a unique and unforgettable adventure.
- Attend a major event or festival, such as the Riyadh Season or the Janadriyah Festival, for a truly immersive and memorable experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
