Discover Historical Riyadh - Explore Iconic Sights and Bustling Souks with this English Audio Guide

Overview

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 Adbulaziz’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.

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.

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 culture sights, from the King ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz Historical Centre and the National Museum to Al-Murabaa Palace and the famous Al-Jinādiriyyah national culture festival.

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.

Weave through Souq Al Zall, 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.

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!

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.

The Vidi Guides experience is enriched with on-screen photos and videos. We also point out where to take the perfect Instagram photos during the tour, and include recommendations for food, drinks, and local attractions. Don't worry, none of our recommendations are sponsored - they are simply favourites of the locals who helped craft the experience.

Vidi Guides creates immersive audio experiences that are like podcasts. This is a self-guided audio tour that can be started or stopped at your own convenience. Download the Vidi Guides app & your Riyadh tour to explore the area independently and safely! Make sure to download your tour before your visit to streamline your trip!