How to Spend 96 Hours in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Historically home to worldwide arts and music, as well as a variety of vibrant cultures, the city of Jeddah on Saudi Arabia’s coast is a destination growing in popularity among travelers. From a UNESCO World Heritage site to heritage-focused galleries to tasty restaurants, Jeddah is rich in experiences and, even more, ranks as one of the safest places among G20 nations.

How can you spend four good days in Jeddah?

Day 1

Wander in Al Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This area was established as the primary port for trade routes from the Indian Ocean in the seventh century A.D., so look for buildings dating back more than 400 years. Head to Historic Nights Rooftop Café to see hundreds of antiques on display. Be sure to also visit Al Balad’s lively markets, with seven souks in the old town alone, including the oldest souk in Jeddah, Souk Al Alawi. At Bait Nassif, you’ll enjoy a mansion turned museum showcasing architectural grandeur of the past, while Al Balad Museum explores the city’s transformation over the years.

Take a guided tour for local insights. For dinner, learn why Shawarma Al Arkan is famous or opt for Hummus Al Jalal for its famous Levantine-style hummus with a side of falafel or eggplant. Al Saddah is a local favorite with traditional chicken and rice dishes.

Day 2

A visit to Jeddah isn’t complete without time by the water. Look out for the world’s fastest fish, the black marlin, in the waters, as well as the endangered Napoleon fish. Thriving coral reefs, pristine waters and white-sand beaches abound. In southwest Jeddah, head to Abu Tair island and visit the famous ship wreckage of Greek Staphonos. Book a Red Sea Diving adventure to also see the Ann Ann wreck. Come evening, spend time at Al Bassali for fresh seafood right from the boat, a popular spot since 1949. Try the fried najil, a local delicacy and flavorful fish.

© Saudi Tourism Authority

Day 3

In the morning, have brunch at Ext. Seventeen, a female-run café serving dishes inspired by authentic Saudi flavors. Venture 1.5 hours northeast of the city to Moon Valley, an otherworldly landscape of massive, rounded rocks that look like the surface of the moon. Here, go mountain biking, climbing or hiking, all best arranged through a local, licensed tour operator or hiking guide. If you’re a fan of camping, it’s possible to sleep overnight at the remote location to stargaze and watch the moon.

Day 4

Begin the day with traditional pastries. Make this day the day of food, following scents from restaurants, cafés and bakeries. Al Saidi Bakery serves traditional treats like signature “Shaborah” rusks. Make traditional Saudi food yourself at Nassif House Museum, where cooking classes are available to teach you how to prepare authentic Jeddawi food. Beginning with a small tour, you’ll visit narrow alleyways and engage with local vendors to discover unique spices and ingredients.

End the day at The Social Kitchen to discover fine Mediterranean cooking and international flavors. This space is designed to relax and enjoy dishes like tuna tacos, truffle risotto, beef carpaccio and veal limone.

Where to Stay

There’s no shortage of hotels in Jeddah. For authentic experiences, stay at Beit Jokhdar, Beit Al Rayess or Beit Kedwan, each carefully designed with a team of historians, local artists and architects. For city views, opt for Assila, Saudi’s first art hotel. Shada Hotel is idea for art lovers, a modern, Saudi boutique hotel working with local artists and designers. Take in sea views at The Jeddah EDITION, located along the Jeddah Waterfront and adjacent to the F1 racetrack.