Riyadh Saudi Arabia 2 Day Itinerary

July 30, 2024

Day 1: Explore Modern Riyadh

9:00 AM: Start the day at the iconic King Fahad Park, a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely walk, enjoy the scenery and maybe even rent a bike to explore the park.
11:00 AM: Head to the nearby National Museum of Saudi Arabia, which showcases the country’s rich history and culture. Spend a couple of hours exploring the exhibits and learning about the kingdom.

1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at Makki Cafe, a local favorite serving traditional Saudi cuisine with a modern twist. Try their famous jareesh or a juicy shawarma.

2:30 PM: Visit the majestic Al Faisaliyah Center, a stunning example of modern architecture with breathtaking views of the city from its Sky Bridge. Take some memorable photos and enjoy the panoramic view.
4:00 PM: Stop by the trendy Diplomatic Quarter, where you can admire the beautiful gardens, parks, and modern buildings that showcase Riyadh’s architectural diversity.

7:30 PM: For dinner, head to The Globe, a stylish restaurant offering an international menu with a focus on fresh ingredients. Enjoy their unique take on global cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere.

Consider staying at the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh (https://goo.gl/maps/XWY9QXqG7vE2), which offers luxurious accommodations, excellent service, and a prime location in the city center.

Day 2: Historical and Cultural Experiences

9:00 AM: Visit the historic Murabba Palace, a beautiful example of traditional Saudi architecture that served as the country’s first capital. Explore the palace, its gardens, and learn about the kingdom’s history.
11:30 AM: Stop by the adjacent Masmak Fortress, a restored 19th-century mud-brick fort that played a significant role in Riyadh’s past. Witness re-enactments of historical battles and get a glimpse into the city’s rich history.

1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at Al Baik, a popular local restaurant serving delicious Kabsa, Saudi-style fried chicken, and other traditional dishes. Enjoy the casual atmosphere and quick service.

2:30 PM: Visit the Kingdom Centre (https://goo.gl/maps/5V7Hc1R8zB42), an iconic skyscraper with a shopping mall, observation deck, and a beautiful garden. Take in the views of the city from its Sky Bridge and shop for souvenirs.
4:00 PM: End your day at the Diplomatic Quarter (https://goo.gl/maps/ZxX7iYRg8kM2), where you can admire the gardens, parks, and beautiful buildings. Take a leisurely walk and soak in the city’s atmosphere.

Riyadh is a conservative city; dress modestly when visiting mosques or government buildings.
Respect local customs, especially during Ramadan.
Use reputable taxi services like Careem (https://goo.gl/maps/dQW2T6y8z4C2) or Uber.
Stay hydrated in the hot desert climate and avoid walking or cycling during peak sun hours.

Rent a car to explore the city at your own pace. Many rental companies are available, including Sixt and Hertz.
Use public transportation, such as buses or the metro (https://goo.gl/maps/qYmS2dQJpZM2), for shorter trips.