If you're looking for a winter getaway that's both fun and affordable, then Riyadh is a great option.
From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures to family-friendly fun, the capital of Saudi Arabia has something to offer everyone.
We have compiled a list of top attractions worth visiting during the wintertime, along with some exhilarating outdoor activities, intriguing cultural experiences and unforgettable romantic getaways.
Must Try Cultural Experiences in Riyadh
Visit the National Museum of Riyadh
The National Museum in Riyadh is a comprehensive museum that tells the story of Saudi Arabia's history and culture from prehistoric times to the present. It is one of the main tourist attractions in Riyadh. The museum has eight exhibition halls, each focusing on a different aspect of Saudi Arabia's history.
The National Museum in Riyadh is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about Saudi Arabia's history and culture. It is a well-designed and informative museum that offers something for everyone.
Location: The museum is in the Al Murabba neighbourhood of Riyadh and is part of the King Abdulaziz Historical Center.
Opening Hours: it is open 6 days a week from 9 AM, Except on Sundays
Explore Al Masmak Fortress
Al Masmak Fortress is a historic mud-brick monument in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The fort is considered the birthplace of modern Saudi Arabia. Once an armoury, the site is now a heritage building.
Today, Al Masmak Fort is a museum that tells the story of the unification of Saudi Arabia. The museum houses a collection of artefacts from the second Saudi state, including weapons, uniforms and documents.
Location: 3153 Al Thumairi St, Riyadh
Opening Hours: it is open 6 days a week from 9 AM, Except on Sundays
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Witness The Edge of the World
Edge of the World is a cliff located in the Tuwaiq Mountains about 100 kilometres northwest of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It is a popular tourist destination known for its breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape.
The cliff is more than 1,000 metres high and offers panoramic views of the Tuwaiq Mountains and the surrounding desert. The views are particularly spectacular at sunrise and sunset when the colours of the sky are reflected in the sand dunes below.
Visit The Riyadh Zoo
Riyadh Zoo is home to more than 1,500 animals from around the world. Some of the zoo's most popular animals include lions, tigers, elephants, gorillas, gorillas, chimpanzees, giraffes, zebras and penguins.
The zoo is home to many endangered animals, such as the Arabian tiger and the Arabian oryx. It's a great place to visit with children or anyone who loves animals.
Location: Al Ihsa, Al Malaz, Riyadh 12832, Saudi Arabia
Opening Hours: from Saturdays to Thursdays, 10 AM to 5 PM, Fridays 1 PM to 5 PM
Lively Outdoor Activities in Riyadh
Go Shopping in Al Masmak Souq
Al Masmak Souq is a traditional market located next to Al Masmak Fortress. The market is known for its wide variety of goods, including souvenirs, handcrafted goods, clothing, and food. Al Masmak Souq is a great place to experience the local culture and find exotic trinkets to take home.
Take a Desert Safari
Located just outside of Riyadh, Al Thumama Desert is a popular spot for desert safaris. You can go quad biking, sandboarding, camel riding, and more. It's a great way to experience the desert landscape and have some fun at the same time.
Go Paintballing with Friends
Firstayment is a paintball centre located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It is the first of its kind in the city and is one of the most popular paintball centres in the country. The centre provides paintball equipment, including paintball guns, masks and protective gear. The centre also has several paintball courts, including indoor and outdoor areas.
It is a great place to experience the excitement of paintball. The centre has a friendly and professional staff who are always happy to help players have a great time.
Enjoy Snow Hiking
Snowmobiling is the perfect way for outdoor enthusiasts to explore Saudi Arabia's diverse terrain. In winter, snowfall in the northern mountains covers the slopes and desert sands, creating stunning landscapes.
It is a unique opportunity to hike across rugged mountains or stroll through verdant wadis under fresh snow. You can enjoy it at Jabal Sawda in Saudi Arabia’s Asir region or Jebel Fihrayn in the rocky desert northwest of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Best Romantic Getaways in Riyadh
Go Stargazing
During the winter months, the desert is one of the top attractions for stargazing, with clear skies offering stunning views of the constellations. For an unforgettable experience, spend a night in the desert and explore its natural beauty.
Go to the Noor Walk
If you're looking for a more relaxed activity, enjoy a sunset stroll around Wadi Namar, a desert oasis in Riyadh known for its cool winter breeze and stunning sunset views. Wadi Namar is a perfect weekend destination for sightseeing and enjoying the great outdoors.
Location: Makkah Province, Hejaz, Saudi Arabia
Dine at the Groves Restaurants
The Groves restaurants are a great place to experience the winter vibes in Saudi Arabia.
These high-end restaurants offer delicious international cuisine accompanied by music and entertainment shows. With their charming winter atmosphere and stunning views of the wadi, they are the perfect place to enjoy the mild winter weather with a warm beverage under the palm trees.
Location: Al Khuzama Park, Diplomatic Quarters, Riyadh
Opening Hours: Sun until Thurs: 4:00 PM, Fri & Sat: 2:30 PM
Riyadh is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with something for everyone, especially in winter. With its mild climate and diverse attractions, Riyadh is the perfect place to escape the winter blues and have fun.
Whether you're looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or family fun, Riyadh has it all. So, book your trip today and discover all that Riyadh has to offer this winter!
In addition to all the exciting events we've mentioned, don't miss out on two other incredible happenings in Riyadh this winter. Be sure to partake in the Noor Riyadh Festival 2024, which will be enchanting the city until December 16, 2023. And of course, mark your calendar for Riyadh Season 2024, a source of immense pride for the city, promising unforgettable experiences for all.
Interesting activities to try:
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