Day 7 – Amazing Riyadh day tour
Start your day by visiting heritage listed Diriyyah, an historic site on the outskirts of Riyadh, which is said to be the birthplace of the first Saudi state and is today the current home of the royal family. The mud-brick walls once fortified a thriving desert city that was a powerhouse of culture and commerce. In 1745, the city was named the country’s capital, laying the foundations for what would later become a unified Saudi Arabia.
Take a walk through the old town to admire its many ancient ruins including the once-splendid palace, houses and marketplace. Continue to Masmak Fort, in Riyadh’s old quarter, built during the reign of Abdullah bin Rashid in 1895 A.D. Afterwards, explore the Dirah Souq, a market famed for colourful textiles from silk to luxurious pashminas, before stopping for lunch.
This afternoon, be guided through the National Museum, a national treasure and World Heritage Site, composed of eight galleries that tell the complete story of Arabian history – from the creation of the universe to the modern era.
Continue to Murabba Palace, built by King Abdul Aziz in 1937. A family dwelling, it was constructed from local materials and is composed of several smaller palaces, service buildings, and the Royal Diwan. Return to the hotel for overnight.
Overnight: Riyadh.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Visits: Diriyyah, Masmak Fort, Dirah Souq, the National Museum, Murabba Palace.