Historical Riyadh Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour

Riyadh, SA
63% of travellers recommend this
Good (11 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Audio tour provided by a local or historian
  • inclusion
    Offline Mode: Download tours in advance to listen without WiFi
  • inclusion
    Instagram Hotspots: We find the spot for your perfect picture
  • inclusion
    Location Aware: GPS map allows you to enjoy sites, without getting lost
  • inclusion
    Access to your self-guided audio tour

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Mobile device
  • exclusion
    Headphones

Meeting Point

This is a self guided tour. You can start whenever you're ready!

Meeting point

6937 Al Thumairi St, 6937، 3153, Riyadh 12634 , Saudi Arabia

End point

What to expect

1

Al Masmak Fortress

Begin the tour outside Al Masmak Fortress, a building is foundational to the history of modern Saudi Arabia. Follow the story of the Royal Saudi Family and King Abdulaziz's recapture of this Fortress back in 1902. Come back here later if you want and we can follow King Abdulaziz’s footsteps through Al Masmak.

Duration 5 minutes
2

Al Safarat

Head into Al Safat, a square established during Imam Turki bin Abdullah’s reign. It was redesigned during the first master plan for the new city of Riyadh. Despite this area being the oldest part of Riyadh, it actually underwent a lot of change! As the city plan went on, a lot of neighbourhoods opened up massively and ditched the traditional narrow streets and densely packed houses.

Duration 5 minutes
3

Qayasriat Al Kitab Riyadh

Wander into Qayasriat Al Kitab, a beautiful bookshop surrounded by palm trees and little fountains. This place brings together intellectuals, readers, and writers in one place in the heart of Riyadh by the Palace of Governance. Learn about Riyadh’s other cultural sights, from the King ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz Historical Centre and the National Museum to Al-Murabaa Palace and the famous Al-Jinādiriyyah national cultural festival.

Duration 5 minutes
4
Imam Turki Bin Abdullah Grand Mosque

Visit the Great Mosque, also known as the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque. This mosque was established during the reign of Imam Turki bin Abdullah in the 19th century and is one of the most important mosques in the city of Riyadh. Citizens could come here to meet and speak to their ruler.

Duration 10 minutes
5

Riyadh

Weave through Souq Al Zal, a truly authentic market here in the heart of Riyadh. The souq is over 100 years old and is still a go to destination for Saudis to buy and barter for carpets, perfumes, traditional clothes, and food. Learn about the history of Arabian markets, from the first souqs that appeared 2500 years ago to Saudi Arabia’s modern trade.

Duration 5 minutes
6

Al Thumairi St

Stroll down Al-Ath Thumayry Street, a favourite spot for handicrafts and local gifts. This is considered to be one of Riyadh’s most famous streets and it sums up Riyadh perfectly with authentic produce. Keep an eye out for the clock tower at the end of this road that was built in 1966, making it one of the city’s first public clocks!

Duration 10 minutes
7

Riyadh

Finish the tour at Ath Thumayry Gate, a reconstruction of an old city gate. It’s part of the Qasr Al Hokm project, which reconstructs old parts of the heart of the city, and is made from the original materials that made up the old wall. Walk around it and you feel you are living in history.

Duration 10 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by Vidi Guides

What our experts say

  • icon
    Visit Al Safat Square for coffee.
  • icon
    Try local dates at Souq Al Zal.
  • icon
    Capture photos at Ath Thumayry Street.
  • icon
    Check out Qayasriat Al Kitab bookstore.
  • icon
    Bring headphones for better audio.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Welcome to the Historical Riyadh Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour! Immerse yourself in the rich history and captivating culture of Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. This tour takes you on a journey through time, exploring the origins of this modern city and tracing its transformation over the past 300 years. Walk through iconic attractions like the Al Masmak Fortress, Al Safat Square, and the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque as you uncover the fascinating stories and secrets that shaped Riyadh into the vibrant metropolis it is today.

What to expect?

On this self-guided audio walking tour, you can expect a total duration of 50 minutes filled with historical wonders. Begin your adventure at the Al Masmak Fortress, where you'll learn about King Abdulaziz's recapture of the fortress and the captivating history of the Royal Saudi Family. Explore Al Safat Square, witness the changes Riyadh went through, and marvel at the architectural transformation over time. Discover cultural sights like Qayasriat Al Kitab, a beautiful bookshop surrounded by palm trees, and the prestigious Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Souq Al Zal, a traditional market where you'll find carpets, perfumes, traditional clothes, and local delicacies. Wrap up your tour at Ath Thumayry Gate, a reconstructed city gate that will transport you back in time.

Who is this for?

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or a curious traveler, this tour is perfect for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Riyadh's heritage. It's designed for individuals who want to explore at their own pace and immerse themselves in the fascinating historical landmarks of the city. No matter your age or background, this self-guided audio walking tour offers a captivating experience for all.

Why book this?

By booking the Historical Riyadh Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour, you'll have the opportunity to unravel the mysteries and stories that shaped Riyadh into the modern city it is today. Walking in the footsteps of royalty and connecting with the rich cultural heritage, you'll gain a profound appreciation for the city's roots. This tour allows you to discover Riyadh at your own convenience, with the freedom to pause, explore, and delve deeper into the sites that intrigue you most. Immerse yourself in the immersive audio guide created by an expert historian, ensuring you have all the background information and insights you need to fully appreciate your journey through time.

Good to know

Please note that this is a self-guided audio walking tour and does not include entrance tickets. The tour has a total duration of 50 minutes, but you can start whenever you're ready. Wear comfortable shoes and bring along water and sunscreen, as you'll be walking through various landmarks and streets of Riyadh. Prepare to be captivated by the historical buildings, mysteries, and secret stories hidden within this picturesque city. This tour offers a unique opportunity to blend history with exploration, providing a remarkable experience for both locals and tourists alike.

Reviews

Feedback from individuals who have embarked on the Historical Riyadh Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour has been overwhelmingly positive. Travelers have praised the informative and engaging audio guide, which brings the city's history to life and adds depth to the overall experience. Many have expressed how the tour allowed them to uncover hidden gems they wouldn't have discovered otherwise, and how it provided a deeper understanding of Riyadh's cultural significance. Visitors have also commended the convenience and flexibility of the tour, as it allows them to explore at their own pace. Overall, participants have raved about the captivating journey through history that this tour offers, making it a must-do activity for those visiting Riyadh.

Select Currency