48 Hours in Riyadh – A Complete Guide
If you’ve only got 48 hours in Riyadh, don’t panic—there’s still plenty of time to experience the city’s best sights, flavors, and vibes. From ancient heritage sites to gleaming skyscrapers, cozy cafés to luxury dining, Riyadh packs a lot into every square mile. Here’s how to make the most of your two unforgettable days in the Saudi capital.
Day 1
Breakfast at Wheat & Fireplace Wood
Start your morning with savory options like shakshuka—eggs cooked in a tomato-based sauce—or traditional Arabic breakfast platters with hummus, foul (fava beans), and fresh bread. Shawarma is another popular choice, available at places like Mama Noura and Shawarma House.
Turaif Guided Tour
After breakfast, explore the ancient Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site near Bujairi Terrace. The first capital of the Kingdom and ancestral home of the Saudi royal family, Turaif features classic Najdi-style architecture. A 30-minute guided tour (available in Arabic and English) provides insight into the region’s history and includes Salwa Palace and the Imam Mohammed bin Saud Mosque.
Lunch at Takya
For lunch, head to Takya in Diriyah near Bujairi Terrace. Share traditional dishes such as cheesy mutabbag with dried tomatoes, tamees bread with beetroot and chickpeas, and classics like saleeq and kabsa, all while enjoying views of Turaif.
National Museum of Saudi Arabia
After lunch, visit the National Museum to explore four thematic halls showcasing artifacts, manuscripts, ancient weapons, and Islamic texts carved in stone. There are also outdoor parks and a river to enjoy.
Opening hours: Monday–Wednesday 9 a.m.–7 p.m., Thursday 9 a.m.–10 p.m., Friday 2 p.m.–10 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.–7 p.m.
Souq Al Zal
Next, visit Souq Al Zal to browse textiles, souvenirs, bukhoor (incense), and carpets. The souq is known for its historic charm and vintage items, including coins, kitchenware, musical instruments, and antiques.
Opening hours: daily 3:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m.
Dinner at Suhail
For dinner, enjoy regional specialties from across Saudi Arabia, including lamb kabsa and saleeq. Don’t miss the Hanini cheesecake for dessert.
Sky Bridge at Kingdom Centre
End the night with a visit to the Sky Bridge on the 99th floor of Kingdom Centre, offering spectacular 360-degree views of Riyadh.
Tickets: Adults SAR 138, Children SAR 69. Open daily 10 a.m.–11 p.m.
Kingdom Mall
Before calling it a night, explore Kingdom Mall for shopping or catch a movie at VOX Cinema Gold. Treat yourself to a little retail therapy or a snack from one of the mall’s gourmet offerings.
Day 2
Brunch at Aseeb Najd
Start your second day with a traditional Saudi brunch at Aseeb Najd. Try dishes like jareesh, saleeq, matazeez, and margoog, along with kabsa and Arabian-style stews. Finish with desserts like mahalabia and hanini.
Masmak Fortress
Visit Masmak Fortress, a historic mudbrick fort in the Qasr Al Hukm area. Explore its six sections, including a free museum, large courtyard, and the Majlis. The fortress highlights the Battle of Riyadh and early 20th-century life in Saudi Arabia. Entry is free; open Saturday–Thursday 8 a.m.–9 p.m., Friday 4 p.m.–8 p.m.
Lunch at LPM
For lunch, enjoy French cuisine at LPM. Unique dishes include snails in garlic butter, marinated baby chicken, grilled ribeye, and salt-baked seabass. The restaurant has a quirky art gallery vibe with Mickey Mouse paintings on the walls. Open Sunday–Thursday 12:30–3:30 & 6:30–11, Friday 1–3:30 & 6:30–11.
Art at Fenaa Al Awwal in the Diplomatic Quarter
Explore Riyadh’s art scene at Fenaa Al Awwal in the Diplomatic Quarter. The ground floor has a free exhibition, while the upper floor features a café and gift shop offering books, stationery, and other items.
Sunset at the DQ Hills
Take in Riyadh’s sunset from the Diplomatic Quarter’s hills. Enjoy hiking, cycling, sports, or simply relaxing in the green spaces. Nearby attractions include Al Kindi Plaza, DQ Souq, and DQ Rock Park, which has playgrounds and facilities.
Evening at Via Riyadh
Finish your visit at Via Riyadh, a modern dining and shopping hub. Options range from light snacks at Over Under to hearty meals at Les Deux Magots (French cuisine), Ferdi (cheeseburgers), or Spago (pasta).
Ready to experience Riyadh in style? Book your stay at ALMA Hotel Riyadh — where comfort, convenience, and a touch of Saudi elegance meet. Your perfect city escape starts here!
About Author
Amelia has a great eye for photography. She has traveled to over 30 countries and has produced great videography and photos, along with penning them down with her writing skills. She has also worked with many top travel photographers.