Riyadh, also known as the “Heart of Arabia” and Saudi Arabia’s capital, is where the desert meets skyscrapers and history meets the future. You can visit centuries-old palaces in the morning and then sip on a cold coffee in a swanky cafe that looks like a spaceship. In 3 days, you’ll get your fix of everything from the breathtaking views at the Kingdom Centre Tower to the dusty charm of Diriyah – and a visit to the National Museum that’s more “wow” than “yawn”. Want adventure? Riyadh’s got you covered, whether it’s getting lost in massive malls or hunting down the best local food that’ll have you saying, “I’m definitely coming back”. So buckle up for the Riyadh itinerary, where history, culture, and a bit of desert magic come together in the most unexpected ways!

Day 1

Begin your Riyadh trip with a visit to Masmak Fort, a historic landmark. Built in 1865 from clay and mud brick, the fort was a key to Saudi Arabia’s unification. In 1902, it was the site of a daring raid by King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud, which marked the beginning of modern Saudi Arabia. Today, Masmak Fort is a museum with exhibits of traditional weapons, maps, and photographs from the early 20th century. You can see the original wooden gate, which still has the spearhead from the famous raid. Interactive displays and detailed exhibits will give you a glimpse of Riyadh’s past. The fort is in the middle of everything, so it’s a great place to start your day. You can also head to Souq Al-Zal, Al-Murabba Palace, and the National Museum. Entry to Masmak Fort is free, making it a culturally enriching and budget-friendly way to start your trip to the capital.

The King Abdulaziz Historical Center in Riyadh is a must-see cultural destination that takes you on a journey through Saudi Arabia’s history and the legacy of its founder. Opened in 1999 to mark the centenary of King Abdulaziz’s capture of Riyadh, the center covers 44 acres and houses multiple institutions, including the famous National Museum of Saudi Arabia. You can explore vast exhibitions of archaeological artifacts, Islamic manuscripts, and interactive displays that take you through the Kingdom’s history from prehistoric times to the present day. The King Abdulaziz Memorial Hall is the place where you can see his personal belongings, photos, and documents. The King Abdulaziz Public Library, gardens, and the Murabba Palace (his former residence) are part of the complex as well.

One of the places to visit in Riyadh for a great culinary experience is Najd Village! Finish your cultural tour of Riyadh with a delicious dinner at one of the city’s top traditional restaurants. Located near historical sites, Najd Village offers a genuine Saudi Arabian dining experience in a Najd-style setting. You’ll be seated on floor cushions in private majlis-style rooms, so you’ll feel like you’re part of the culture. The menu has all the classics: kabsa, jareesh, mataziz, and freshly baked tamees bread, all served with Saudi hospitality.

Day 2

Start your second day in Riyadh by visiting Souq Al Zal! Located in the historic Ad-Dirah district of Riyadh, Souq Al-Zal was established in 1901.  This massive souq covers 38,580 square meters and is famous for its traditional goods. The souq sells everything from handwoven carpets to antique daggers (janbiya), oud, and bakhoor incense, along with Bedouin jewelry. A highlight is the open-air auction every Friday and Saturday after Asr prayer, where rare antiques and collectibles are sold, making it a cultural experience for visitors. The souq’s architecture is a reflection of its history, with narrow alleys, mudbrick storefronts, and wooden doors preserving the old Riyadh feel.

King Fahd Park is a 1,200,000 sq m green oasis in the heart of Riyadh. It is a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life; the park has large lawns, shaded areas, and beautifully landscaped areas with many trees and flowers. The artificial lake in the park is approximately 300 m long and 50m wide, with 3 palm tree islands connected by wooden bridges. The park features a skate park for all levels and children’s play areas with multiple playgrounds. Visitors can also unwind in the beautiful picnic areas and enjoy the surroundings.

Located on top of the iconic Al Faisaliah Tower, the Globe Restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience with city views. Inside the tower’s golden ball, this three-level restaurant combines modern European cuisine with world-class service. The menu has a range of premium dishes, including sous vide lamb shank, confit salmon, wild loup de mer, and roasted white chocolate crème brûlée, which are some of the must-try dishes. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of the city, making it perfect for special occasions or a night out. Book in advance to ensure a smooth experience.

Day 3

Located 90 km northwest of Riyadh is Edge of the World (locally known as Jebel Fihrayn), one of Saudi Arabia’s most impressive natural wonders. Part of the massive Tuwaiq Escarpment, this geological marvel has cliffs that rise 300m high with no obstacles in sight. The place is perfect for hiking with a short but scenic trail to the cliff edge, where you can watch the sunset and see the desert landscape. The area is also rich in ancient marine fossils, coral, and seashells from a prehistoric sea bed. Due to its remote location, it’s also a great spot for stargazing and camping. The Edge of the World is accessible by SUV via the Acacia Valley or Sadus Dam routes.

Located north of Riyadh, the Diriyah Historical District is the birthplace of the first Saudi state and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most famous area, At-Turaif District, was the capital from 1727 to 1818 and has the classic Najdi mud-brick architecture with landmarks like Salwa Palace, where the Al Saud family used to live. Visitors can explore restored palaces, mosques, and museums that tell the story of the Kingdom’s early history. Next to At-Turaif is the Al-Bujairi District, a lively cultural area with traditional cafes, artisan shops, and restored streets. Wadi Hanifah is nearby and adds natural beauty to the heritage area, perfect for walking and picnicking. No doubt, the Diriyah District is among the best Riyadh attractions!

Maiz Restaurant in Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah, is a modern take on traditional Saudi cuisine. The interior is all about Saudi culture, with palm tree motifs and Al Sadu art. Maiz serves authentic dishes like Meat Sambosa, Hijazi Soup, Eggplant Salad, Chicken Saleeg, Mandi Lamb, and Kubeba with Lamb. They also have refreshing drinks, mocktails, and traditional desserts. Open to the public from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM for lunch and 7:00 PM to 12:00 AM for dinner, Maiz is a must-visit spot if you are visiting the Diriryah Historical District.