Jeddah Old Town Tour (Al Balad)
Jeddah, SA
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Explore the unique architecture of Al Balad
- Discover the rich history of the old buildings
- Experience the vibrant local communities
- Indulge in delicious local snacks and drinks
- Visit the art houses and museum for unique local art collection
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Duration: 2 to 3 hours
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Local snacks and drinks included
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Private tour experience
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Admission to museums included
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Local guide in Arabic and English
Experience the vibrant and enchanting Jeddah Old Town (Al Balad) on this captivating tour. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture as you wander through the narrow streets lined with unique shops offering perfumes, clothing, jewelry, antiques, and souvenirs. Explore local craft shops showcasing traditional sandal-making, perfume, and gold jewelry crafts. As you venture deeper into Al Balad, you'll encounter bustling local communities, where tea is shared, children play, and street cats roam. Marvel at the preserved UNESCO world heritage site, with its stunning old buildings adorned with intricate window designs and doors made from seashells and stones. Step back in time as you enter one of these historic buildings and observe the fascinating interior designs, furniture, and the way of life back then. Discover ancient mosques, indulge in delicious local snacks like Sobia and Balilah, and relax at a traditional coffee shop to savor the famous local tea mixed with milk and herbs. Uncover the first hotel and school in Jeddah, and visit an art house and museum showcasing captivating local art and antiques. This is an experience not to be missed.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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2 hours
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Available in Arabic, English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore Jeddah's Al Balad: Discover rich history, local crafts, and delicious snacks on this immersive private tour.
Included
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OtherEntry to museums -
OtherLocal snacks and drinks
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OtherLocal Guide
Meeting Point
Jeddah Old gate (Bab Nadeed)
F5QP+MGM, Abu Inabah, Al-Balad, Jeddah 22236 , Saudi Arabia
What to expect
This is half day experience to tour Al Balad as local call it which means “ the town” as reference to the base of Jeddah. Al-Balad was founded in the 7th century and historically served as the centre of Jeddah. Al-Balad's defensive walls were torn down in the 1940s. In the 1970s and 1980s, when Jeddah began to become wealthier due to the oil boom, many Jeddawis moved north, away from Al-Balad Al Balad is registered as a world heritage UNISCO site and since then the old buildings with its unique window designs and doors are being preserved along with its unique buildings which some have been built using seashells and stones !. The old buildings once housed the famous Jeddah families and hosted the founder the late King Abdulaziz when first entered Jeddah. Our tour will go through the history of these building including going inside one of the buildings to see the interior designs , furniture and life back then
120 minutes
Admission Included
The old Mosques is another tourist attraction where some were founded over 300 years ago and still functional as a mosque. The main attraction in this tour is the food and snacks of Al Balad where we will pass by some famous vendors known to offer the best local snacks such as the local drink made of bread “ Sobia” and the old bakery which its famous for its fresh bread. Another local snack that consists of Bean and pickles “ Balilah”. We will stop for rest in one of the local coffee open air places and try famous local tea mixed with milk and herbs We will move to visit the center of Al Balad to see the first hotel built in Jeddah influenced by Italian architecture then pass by the first school built in Saudi. We will also visit one of the art houses and museum offering its unique local art collection and antiques.
2 minutes
Admission Included
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
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Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller -
Public transportation options are available nearby
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Service animals allowed
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
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Bargain at local shops for unique finds. -
Try the famous Sobia drink during the tour.
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Visit nearby Al-Balad mosque for history.
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Check out local art at the museum.
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Consider visiting the old bakery for fresh bread.
More About this Experience
Introduction
The Jeddah Old Town Tour (Al Balad) offers a captivating journey through the historical heart of Jeddah, known as Al Balad. As you explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll be transported back in time to the 7th century, where the town's rich history and vibrant culture come to life. With its distinct window designs, unique buildings constructed with seashells and stones, and well-preserved old houses, Al Balad paints a fascinating picture of Jeddah's past. This half-day tour takes you on a captivating adventure, showcasing the magnificent architecture, traditional crafts, and authentic local experiences.What to expect?
During this tour, you can expect to immerse yourself in the charm and allure of Al Balad. Your journey will take you through the winding streets, passing by local shops filled with an array of goods, including perfumes, clothing, jewelry, antiques, and souvenirs. Marvel at the craftsmanship on display as you witness local artisans creating traditional sandals, perfumes, and gold jewelry. Explore the different communities within Al Balad, where you'll witness locals gathering for tea, children playing, and street cats searching for food.Who is this for?
The Jeddah Old Town Tour (Al Balad) is perfect for history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and anyone seeking an authentic and immersive experience. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Jeddah, this tour will captivate and inspire. It welcomes individuals, couples, and families alike, offering something for everyone. Embrace the opportunity to delve into the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Al Balad and discover the hidden gems of Jeddah.Why book this?
Immerse yourself in the magic of Jeddah's past with the Jeddah Old Town Tour (Al Balad). This unique experience provides an unparalleled glimpse into the rich heritage and culture of this ancient town. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you'll gain insights and stories about the Al-Balad's historic buildings, traditional crafts, and local way of life. Feel the nostalgia as you step inside one of the preserved houses to witness its interior design and furniture, transporting you back in time.Good to know
The Jeddah Old Town Tour (Al Balad) is a half-day experience lasting approximately 120 to 180 minutes. Take note of the meeting point at Jeddah Old gate (Bab Nadeed) and the end point at the same location. Prepare to stroll through the narrow streets of Al Balad, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Don't forget to bring your camera along to capture the stunning architecture and vibrant scenes you encounter along the way. Sample the delectable local snacks and savor the flavors of Jeddah. Engage with the friendly locals and embrace the warmth of their hospitality.Reviews
Feedback from previous participants highlights the awe-inspiring beauty of Al Balad and the valuable insights gained from the knowledgeable guides. Many praised the tour's ability to transport them back in time and appreciated the chance to engage with the local community. Visitors raved about the unique crafts showcased during the tour and were thrilled by the vibrant atmosphere of Al Balad. Travelers highly recommend the Jeddah Old Town Tour (Al Balad) as an essential experience for anyone visiting Jeddah, stating that it truly brings the history and culture of the city to life.
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