Riyadh tours

Things to do in Riyadh

Welcome to Riyadh, a city where ancient sands meet modern skylines and the call to prayer harmonizes with the lively souks. The aroma of cardamom coffee invites you to pause and enjoy the moment. A local guide offers a deeper look into Riyadh, with private tours that go beyond the surface. Explore hidden gems, from historic districts to the impressive Masmak Fortress without the wait. Taste the essence of Saudi cuisine on a culinary tour. Your guide's insights make Riyadh a fascinating chapter in your travel narrative. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Riyadh. Explore Riyadh your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Riyadh tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Riyadh for every interest, including: History tours: Walk the mud-brick walls of Masmak Fortress, browse antique daggers and oud at Souq Al Zal, and hear the story of unification at the National Museum inside the King Abdulaziz Historical Centre. Add a visit to UNESCO-listed At-Turaif in Diriyah for Najdi heritage in restored alleyways. Architecture tours: Compare the Sky Bridge views atop Kingdom Centre with the geometric lines of Al Faisaliah Tower, then cross into the King Abdullah Financial District to see striking contemporary designs and pedestrian skyways. Balance it with traditional Najdi motifs in Diriyah’s courtyard houses. Nature and Wildlife tours: Ride out to the Edge of the World for cliff-top walks above fossil-studded escarpments, or take a desert 4x4 to the Red Sand dunes for a camel farm stop and sunset tea. Families can add a safari loop at Nofa Wildlife Park to see giraffes and zebras from a guided vehicle. Riyadh isn’t very walkable between sights, and while the metro and taxis help, distances are large. Your guide can arrange chauffeured tours or private transportation for desert trips and multi-stop days. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Riyadh inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore Riyadh on a private walking tour and immerse yourself in its vibrant neighborhoods with a local guide. There's no better way to truly understand a place than having someone who knows the ins and outs by your side. - Al Olaya: Known for its mix of old and new, Al Olaya is perfect for those interested in shopping and modern architecture. Families and multi-generational groups can enjoy the bustling shopping malls and diverse dining options. - Diriyah: This historic district is ideal for cultural tourists. Walk through the restored mud-brick structures and learn about the birthplace of the Saudi state. It’s a great spot to connect with the country's rich history. - Al Murabba: With its museums and cultural sites, Al Murabba caters to those seeking meaningful connections with Saudi heritage. Visit the King Abdulaziz Historical Center for a deep dive into the region's past. Day trip ideas from Riyadh Use Riyadh as your base to visit nearby cities and desert highlights, since short drives make solid day trips that match your pace and interests, and many day tours keep timing simple. Diriyah: Explore the UNESCO-listed At Turaif district to see classic Najdi mudbrick architecture, small museums, and lanes that tell the early story of Saudi Arabia, then cross to Bujairi neighbourhood for cafés and views across the wadi. If you like history, design, or food, this heritage town fits well, and it works for easy walking with plenty of places to pause. Edge of the World: West of Riyadh, the Tuwaiq Escarpment drops into wide desert, giving you huge cliff edges, simple hiking, and big-sky photos, especially near sunset when the light turns soft. Nature lovers and photographers get the drama they want, while casual visitors still enjoy the views with a relaxed schedule and 4x4 access. Red Sand Dunes near Thumama: Roll into a sea of orange dunes for sandboarding, light hiking on ridgelines, and time to sit with tea as the colours shift. If you like easy adventure or family-friendly outdoor time without long drives, the dunes deliver simple fun and room to move. Ushaiqer Heritage Village and Shaqra: Wander restored mudbrick lanes, small museums, and old gates, then meet local artisans and date sellers in nearby Shaqra for a look at crafts and village life. This trip suits anyone into heritage, photography, and slow exploring, with plenty of stops and shade between sights. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Riyadh most travellers miss.