3 Days in Riyadh Things to Do Where to Stay and Must Sees

Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis filled with rich history, cultural attractions, and modern amenities. Whether you are visiting for business or pleasure, there are a plethora of travel tips to keep in mind to make your trip to Riyadh a smooth and enjoyable one.

Travel tips for exploring Riyadh Saudi Arabia

Dress modestly: Saudi Arabia is a conservative country, so it is important to dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.
Respect local customs: Be aware of local customs and traditions, such as the call to prayer and the prohibition of alcohol.
Plan ahead: Research the sites and attractions you want to visit in advance, as some may require tickets or have limited opening hours.
Stay hydrated: Riyadh can get extremely hot, especially in the summer months, so be sure to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen.
Use public transportation: Riyadh has a modern public transportation system, including buses and taxis, which can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around the city.
Be mindful of the weekend: The weekend in Saudi Arabia falls on Friday and Saturday, so plan your sightseeing accordingly as some attractions may be closed.

Things to do in Riyadh / Top Sites and Monuments to Visit in Riyadh

Masmak Fortress: Built in the 19th century, this historic fortress played a significant role in the unification of Saudi Arabia. Visitors can explore the museum inside and learn about the country’s history. (Reference: https://www.sauditourism.sa/en/Explore/Regions/Riyadh/ThingsToDo/Attractions/Pages/MasmakFortress.aspx)
Pricing: Free
How to get there: Located in the Al-Masmak district, easily accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Kingdom Centre Tower: One of the most iconic landmarks in Riyadh, this skyscraper offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck. Visitors can also shop at the luxury mall located inside. (Reference: https://www.kingdomcentre.com.sa/)
Pricing: Observation deck ticket – SAR 50
How to get there: Located in the Olaya district, accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Al-Watan Park: A beautiful green space in the heart of Riyadh, Al-Watan Park is a popular spot for picnics, family outings, and leisurely strolls. Visitors can also enjoy boat rides on the lake and visit the zoo. (Reference: https://gulfy.com/saudi-arabia/places-to-visit/al-watan-park/) Pricing: Park entry – SAR 10, Boat ride – SAR 20 How to get there: Located on King Abdullah Road, easily accessible by taxi or public transportation.
National Museum of Saudi Arabia: This museum showcases the history and culture of Saudi Arabia through its vast collection of artifacts, manuscripts, and exhibits. Visitors can learn about the country’s heritage and traditions. (Reference: https://www.sauditourism.sa/en/Explore/Regions/Riyadh/ThingsToDo/Attractions/Pages/NationalMuseum.aspx)
Pricing: Entry fee – SAR 20
How to get there: Located on King Abdul Aziz Historical Center, accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Diriyah: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Diriyah is a historic town with mud-brick buildings, palaces, and mosques that date back to the 18th century. Visitors can explore the traditional architecture and learn about the history of the region. (Reference: https://www.sauditourism.sa/en/Explore/Regions/Riyadh/ThingsToDo/Attractions/Pages/Diriyah.aspx)
Pricing: Entry fee – SAR 50
How to get there: Located on the outskirts of Riyadh, accessible by taxi or private car.
Ad Diriyah Art Oasis: An open-air art museum featuring contemporary art installations and sculptures, Ad Diriyah Art Oasis is a unique cultural experience in Riyadh. Visitors can wander through the exhibits and enjoy the fusion of art and nature. (Reference: https://addiriyahartoasis.com/)
Pricing: Entry fee – SAR 30
How to get there: Located in the Ad Diriyah district, accessible by taxi or public transportation.
King Fahd Cultural Center: A prominent cultural institution in Riyadh, King Fahd Cultural Center hosts various events, exhibitions, and performances throughout the year. Visitors can attend concerts, theater productions, and art shows. (Reference: https://www.sauditourism.sa/en/Explore/Regions/Riyadh/ThingsToDo/Attractions/Pages/KingFahdCulturalCenter.aspx)
Pricing: Event ticket prices vary
How to get there: Located on King Fahd Road, accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Al-Bujairi Quarter: A quaint neighborhood in the historic district of Riyadh, Al-Bujairi Quarter is known for its traditional architecture, winding alleyways, and charming cafes. Visitors can explore the local shops, sample traditional Saudi cuisine, and take in the vibrant atmosphere. (Reference: https://www.sauditourism.sa/en/Explore/Regions/Riyadh/ThingsToDo/Attractions/Pages/AlBujairi.aspx) Pricing: Free How to get there: Located in the Al-Bujairi district, accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Al-Masmak Souq: A bustling traditional market in Riyadh, Al-Masmak Souq offers a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Visitors can haggle with local vendors and experience the vibrant sights and sounds of the market. (Reference: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293995-d15507321-Reviews-Al_Masmak_Souq-Riyadh_Riyadh_Province.html)
Pricing: Varies depending on purchases
How to get there: Located near the Masmak Fortress, accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Wadi Hanifa: A beautiful valley oasis on the outskirts of Riyadh, Wadi Hanifa is a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching in this serene natural setting. (Reference: https://www.sauditourism.sa/en/Explore/Regions/Riyadh/ThingsToDo/Attractions/Pages/WadiHanifa.aspx) Pricing: Free How to get there: Located south of Riyadh, accessible by taxi or private car.

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3 days in Riyadh / Day by Day Riyadh Visit

Day 1:

Visit Masmak Fortress and learn about Saudi Arabia’s history
Explore the Kingdom Centre Tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city
Shop and dine at the luxury mall inside the tower

Day 2:

Spend the morning at Al-Watan Park, taking a boat ride on the lake
Visit the National Museum of Saudi Arabia and learn about the country’s heritage
Have a traditional Saudi lunch at a local restaurant

Day 3:

Take a day trip to Diriyah and explore the historic town
Visit the Ad Diriyah Art Oasis and admire the contemporary art installations
Attend a cultural event at the King Fahd Cultural Center

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Where to Stay in Riyadh / Top Rated Riyadh Hotels

Top Rated Riyadh hotels priced over $200 per night:

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For more about Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, Mecca, Medina, Dammam and other travel destinations in Saudi Arabia, read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.

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