Al Masmak Palace stands in the middle of Riyadh and is where this half day starts. It was built in the hijri 14th century, during the reign of Imam Abdullah bin Faisal, as his residence and the centre of power, and it has watched the city grow around it since.
From the palace the walk carries on into the old souq at Dirah Souq, with time to look around the stalls before the drive back. For the wider history behind the fort, the National Museum of Saudi Arabia covers the same ground in more depth and works well as a separate half day.
Day by day
Morning
Collection from your hotel and a drive to the old quarter. The visit to Al Masmak Palace takes in the walls, the courtyard and the rooms inside, with a guide explaining what the building was used for.
Afternoon
A walk from the palace into the old souq at Dirah Souq, with time to browse at your own pace, then the drive back to your hotel.
What is included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Riyadh
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with driver
- English-speaking guide for the walk
- Entry arrangements for the sites on the route
- Bottled water in the vehicle
- All driving between stops
What is not
- Meals and drinks
- Purchases in the souq
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Anything not listed under inclusions
The places on this trip
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