Things to do in Saudi Arabia

2 destinations in Saudi Arabia, when to visit each, and what a trip actually costs.

Places to visit in Saudi Arabia

When flights to each destination are cheapest.

Medina: The cheapest months to fly to Medina are outside of Hajj season (Dhul Hijjah) and Ramadan, typically January-February and October-November, where round-trip fares can be 30-45% lower than peak pilgrimage periods. Flying midweek (Tuesday/Wednesday departures) also shaves another 10-15% versus weekend travel.
Riyadh: Flying mid-January through early March and again in October avoids both the brutal summer heat and the expensive Ramadan/Eid travel surge, with fares running 25-40% below peak; Tuesdays and Wednesdays consistently show the lowest fares on booking platforms for RUH routes.

A day on the ground for one person travelling alone, before flights: somewhere to sleep, food, something to do and getting around.

Set your dates, budget and home airport on any destination below for a total that includes flights.

Medina: Stroll the Prophet's Mosque Plaza The vast illuminated courtyard with its iconic retractable umbrellas is spectacular day and night and completely free to explore.
Medina: Visit Masjid al-Qiblatayn The historic 'Mosque of the Two Qiblas' where the direction of prayer famously changed, a short and meaningful stop.
Medina: Explore the Old Bazar (Central Market area) Wander the traditional souqs near the mosque for dates, miswak, perfumes, and local street food in a lively atmosphere.
Riyadh: Al-Bujairi Heritage Park Beautifully landscaped park beside Diriyah with free entry, great cafes, and golden-hour views of the mud-brick old city.
Riyadh: King Abdullah Park Expansive green park popular with families for evening strolls, fountains, and people-watching Riyadh street life.
Riyadh: Murabba Historical Palace The former royal palace of King Abdulaziz is open to visitors and gives fascinating insight into early 20th-century Saudi rule.

Al-Baik (multiple branches) in Medina, Crispy fried chicken with garlic sauce and shrimp rolls Plates $3-6
Mandi restaurants near Bab Abdul Aziz in Medina, Slow-cooked lamb or chicken mandi with rice and salad Plates $5-9
Local shawarma stalls near Quba Road in Medina, Chicken or meat shawarma wrap with pickles and tahini Plates $2-4
Najd Village in Riyadh, Lamb kabsa (slow-cooked rice dish) served on floor cushions in a traditional Najdi setting Plates $6-10
Al Baik (multiple branches) in Riyadh, Broasted chicken meal with garlic sauce, the Saudi fast-food institution locals are obsessed with Plates $3-6
Shawarma Al-Tazaj in Riyadh, Grilled chicken shawarma wrap with tahini, freshly made to order and outrageously filling Plates $2-5