From ancient Nabataean tombs to record-breaking fountains, towering escarpments to turquoise island waters, Saudi Arabia is a destination that defies expectation at every turn. This itinerary will take you across the Kingdom's most captivating corners—history, adventure, and luxury included.
Hegra
Start your trip off with a visit to Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can find 2,000-year-old Nabataean tombs that have defied weather and time in their watch over the desert. In order to explore this hallmark of heritage, you'll need to book an official tour with a "Rawi" who will tell you all about Hegra's history and the people who once passed through here along the historic Incense Route that once linked Southern Arabia to the Mediterranean. There are a variety of tour options for every kind of traveler—from budget to bougie, so finding a great option for your adventuring style and budget will be a breeze.
See MoreElephant Rock (Jabal AlFil)
Towering above the desert sands is a natural rock formation that has been meticulously sculpted by the elements over thousands of years. Elephant Rock, also known as Jabal AlFil, makes a great stop at the end of the day as the sun begins to set and that magical time of day known as "golden hour" settles over AlUla. The last rays of sunlight cause the fiery shades of the sandstone to ignite before darkness falls and lights blink to life to spotlight Elephant Rock under the night sky. There are cafes and food trucks on-site as well as cozy fire pits with plenty of seating, inviting you to relax and linger with family and friends.
See MoreAlUla Old Town
AlUla Old Town isn't just another historic town-center that you'll find in other parts of the world, this old town is comprised of 900-year-old mud brick buildings that still thrum with life and activity. Wind your way through the lanes as live music calls from around the corner, as a backdrop to browsing at traditional shops for your next great find or that perfect gift to bring back home for a loved one. This is a historic site that you can self-guide, but, if you want, you can hire a Rawi to take you to the many highlights of AlUla Old Town. There are so many different things to see, and ways to explore, which makes this a wonderful stop for travelers and explorers of all kinds.
See MoreMaraya Concert Hall | قاعة مرايا
If you're not paying attention, your eyes might pass right by this architectural marvel perched in the heart of AlUla. Maraya Concert Hall is the world's largest mirrored building, allowing it to blend in with the landscape of the Ashar Valley and amplify the beauty of its surroundings. Here, the valley is the star. If you want to see more, take a tour of the inside and learn more about the design of the concert hall as well as the events that happen here. Want to stay longer? Head up to their rooftop restaurant and soak in the views of the valley as you enjoy a world-class meal prepared by a Michelin Starred chef.
See MoreBanyan Tree AlUla
The Ashar Valley in AlUla has many wonderful places to stay, and Banyan Tree AlUla is one of its best. This luxury resort lets the desert do the talking as its signature tented villas were crafted with an eye on organic design that would feel seamless with the surroundings. Each villa comes with a private pool, a terrace, and jaw-dropping views of the sandstone rock formations that make up the valley. The hotel has a variety of amenities from a luxury spa to two restaurants that leave diners raving.
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BookAl Masmak Palace Museum
Al Masmak Palace has a storied place in Saudi Arabia's history as it is the birthplace of modern Saudi Arabia. The palace was conquered in 1902, the battle that took place there marking the first step in beginning the unification of Saudi Arabia. Today, the Al Masmak Palace Museum has free entry for any who want to walk the halls of the 19th-century mud fortress and learn more about modern Saudi Arabia's beginnings and what it took to unify the country. The best time to visit is around sunset when the castle is lit up for the night.
See MoreAt-Turaif District
Take a step further back into Saudi Arabia's history and you'll find yourself at Diriyah, the UNESCO-listed birthplace of the Saudi state. Once left to fall to time, this landmark has been restored with great care to its original construction and detail, the mud brick buildings and palace standing proud once more in Riyadh. Travelers are required to purchase a Diriyah Entry Pass in order to visit the At-Turaif District; however, once that ticket is purchased, you can explore the district to your heart's content. Try to leave time to explore the many walking trails around the district! If you want to polish your tour off with a meal, try dining at Al Bujairi Terrace.
See MoreEdge of the World
While this marvel of the natural world doesn't require a guide or tour, it is recommended that you take one as you'll find the Edge of the World far outside city limits. Due to the road conditions, lack of services, and poor reception you'll want to book a guided 4x4 tour from Riyadh. It'll be well worth it as you'll find yourself standing on what does, truly, feel like the edge of the world! The escarpment towers over 1,000 feet above the desert floor, offering an infinite plateau view out into the desert and across to the skyline. Should you or your group want to hike, there are a few trails across the rim of the cliff, or even down to the desert floor below; however, there are no guard rails or safety features, so be sure to maintain a safe distance from the rim.
See MoreInterContinental Riyadh by IHG
There's so much to explore in Riyadh! Basing your trip out of the center of the city will help you see it all without worrying so much about the logistics of how to get there. The InterContinental Riyadh is a well-reviewed classic that's praised for its reliability, comfort, and reasonable prices by travelers. It also offers a bounty of entertainment options on property with a 9-hole golf course, indoor and outdoor pools, and tennis courts. Oh, we forgot to mention the spa, its multiple restaurants, and the sprawling property that's perfect for a walk to cap your night off or start your morning right.
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BookJeddah Historic District – Al-Balad
While this former port for pilgrims may no longer be The Gate to Mecca, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Al Balad Historic District is known today for its coral-stone buildings, traditional wood balconies, and vibrant souks. There's plenty to see and do here, meaning you'll want to be prepared to do a lot of walking and hopping! Al Balad boasts one of the oldest souks in Saudi Arabia and today its stalls still offer traditional spices, fabrics, and perfumes in addition to great souvenirs. For those who are more interested in architecture, get ready to see 7th century buildings and a mosque that has run for 1,400 years.
See MoreRed Sea Citizen Dive Club
Saudi Arabia is lined with one of the world's most biodiverse coral reef systems, making its waters a massive draw for tourists and locals alike. If you're new to diving and want to get your feet wet, or you're a seasoned diver looking to explore the beauty of the area, head over to Red Sea Citizen Dive Club! This dive club has a 4.9 star rating and offers a variety of dives, tours, and trainings to help folks get out into the waters and experience the vibrancy of the coral reef and its underwater residents. This can be a spendier option (depending on your dive), but there's not many places in the world that will offer this experience.
See MoreKing Fahad's Fountain
There's a lot of world record spots in Saudi Arabia, and King Fahd's Fountain is one of them! Sitting in the Red Sea, this is the world's tallest fountain, shooting salt water over 1,000 feet in the air every night. Due to its height, there are a variety of places you can see the fountain go off throughout Jeddah; however, you'll find some of the best views from the Jeddah Corniche right around dusk as they illuminate the fountain. The reflection of the lights off of the spray lets visitors see each glistening drop of water as it falls through the air.
See MoreRosewood Jeddah Hotel
On the northern edge of the Jeddah Corniche sits the Rosewood Jeddah, a luxury hotel that looks out over the Red Sea and boasts one of the most sought-out addresses in the city. Here, each guest can experience 24-hour, personalized, butler services, a rooftop pool with panoramic city views, and the signature Asaya spa. Just outside of its doors the Corniche, Red Sea, and Red Sea Mall are all waiting to dazzle and entertain with everything from sight-seeing to luxury shopping and fine dining. For those traveling with children, the hotel also has the "Rose Buds" program to give your little ones the extra care and attention they deserve.
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BookAssir National Parks
Asir National Park is Saudi Arabia's largest national park and it offers a different side to the country than many might picture when they think "Saudi Arabia". Here you'll find cool highland air, lush, terraced farms, and spectacular mountain scenery that offers a reprieve from the hot, summer air during the warm season. For those who love road trips and winding mountain roads, a great way to explore is to rent a car and hit the road with the windows down and (passenger) cameras at the ready as each twist and turn will offer a new view.
See MoreNew Abha Cable Car
There are many mountainside towns within the region, and the Abha Cable Car offers a three-mile ride between towns. Passengers in the cable cars will glide between mountain peaks and soar over a dramatic dam as they soak in the aerial views of the city and the southern cliffs of the mountains. There are several small towns connected to Abha by this cable car, but one of the best ones to see is the ancient "Hanging Village" that is perched among the mountaintops and offers a glimpse into a different way of life that once thrived in the region.
See MoreCitadines Abha
Once off the road, check in to Citadines Abha. This hotel is praised by travelers for their warm service and value, making it a reliable pick in this region for travelers. After a long day of exploring the mountains, find time to rest and relax in their sauna, take a dip in the pool, or grab a bite to eat at their on-site restaurant. Their rooms take an apartment approach and feel, allowing their guests to relax and experience a slice of home amidst their travels and adventures.
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BookFarasan Island
An island vacation doesn't always have to break the bank. The Farasan Islands are a pristine Red Sea archipelago with stunning turquoise waters that are accessible via a free ferry from Jizan port! The best part? These gems don't have the same tourist crowds as other Saudi Arabian locales so you can take a deep breath and relax as you explore at your own pace. One of the highlights of the islands is the Farasan Islands Animal Sanctuary where you can see, and learn about, the local wildlife. The best time to go is during the cooler months, between November and January, due to the extreme heat during the summer.
See MoreRadisson Blu Resort Jizan
The Radisson Blu Resort Jizan is a beachfront resort located right on the Jizan Corniche, offering rooms with stunning views of the water. This is the best base for accessing the Farasan Islands as it's near the port where the ferry operates, making day trips a breeze. On property you'll find shopping, a wellness center and spa, and even a barber shop! For those traveling with little ones, they also offer a kid's pool and playroom, ensuring the whole family enjoys their visit to Jizan.
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BookEmpty Quarter
Located on the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula you'll find Rub' al Khali, the largest sand desert on Earth with over 250,000 square miles of dunes and desert sand. This remote location offers some of the darkest skies you can find on Earth today, making it the perfect spot to go stargazing! If you want to do so, make sure you book a guided, overnight 4x4 tour to camp under a dazzling night sky you'll never forget.
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