Historical & Heritage Tour in Jeddah Al Balad
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover with us one of the most fun experiences in old Jeddah. Before naming it as the royal seaport for Makkah in 657 AD, the Al-Balad site, “Historic Jeddah”, was built on beautiful coastal land. The area has a fascinating history.
It was founded in the seventh century and was once the beating heart of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Balad can literally be translated as "The Town. We will Explore the old town and try some traditional dishes and go shopping in the bazaar.
Itinerary:
1. Pick up from the hotel or the Cruise Pier.
2. Start walking around the unique buildings
3. Grabbing local beverages in an old cafe.
4. Visiting Al Shafei's old mosque.
5. Visiting Biet Nassif.
6. Visiting Gabel Street Souq (bazaar).
7. Driving back to the hotel or the Cruise Pier.
Available options
Historical & Heritage Tour in Jeddah Al Balad
Pickup included
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Starts with walking around the unique buildings and learning about albalad history.
2
See a 700-year-old flag mast and a 15th-century cannon at this restored building, one of several crumbling structures preserved by the government.
3
The bustling Balad marketplace includes this specialized market that sells electronics, perfumes, spices, dates, honey, and household items.
4
This mosque is situated in the narrow alleys of old Jeddah town off Suq Al Alawi. The mosque looks like a more recent construction but the site has been used as a mosque since c. 1000 AD.
What's not included
Purchase
Dinner
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
12 reviews
5★
10
4★
1
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
52 reviews
5★
47
4★
5
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We meet you at the park
About Jeddah
Jeddah, the vibrant port city of Saudi Arabia, is known for its rich history, bustling markets, and stunning Red Sea coastline. As the gateway to the holy city of Mecca, it blends modern luxury with traditional charm, offering a unique cultural experience.
Top Attractions
Al-Balad (Historical Downtown)
Al-Balad is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient coral houses, traditional markets, and historic mosques. It's a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Historical
Half day
Free (some attractions may have entry fees)
Red Sea Mall
One of the largest shopping malls in Jeddah, offering a wide range of international and local brands, entertainment, and dining options.
Shopping
A few hours
Free entry (shopping and dining costs vary)
Fakieh Aquarium
A popular family attraction featuring a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish. The aquarium also has a small petting zoo and a 4D cinema.
Entertainment
2-3 hours
Moderate (around 50-100 SAR per person)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kabsa
A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and served with a side of yogurt or salad.
Main dish
Contains meat, can be spicy
Shawarma
Marinated meat (chicken or lamb) roasted on a spit and served in pita bread with vegetables and sauces.
Street food
Contains meat, can be customized for dietary preferences
Mandi
A traditional dish of spiced meat (usually lamb or chicken) cooked in an underground pit and served with rice.
Main dish
Contains meat, can be spicy
Popular Activities
Scuba diving
Snorkeling
Desert safaris
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Visiting historic sites
Attending cultural festivals
Best Time to Visit
November to February
The best time to visit Jeddah is during the cooler months when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. This period is also popular for religious tourism.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
230VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Jeddah is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of local customs and laws. Petty crime can occur, so take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- King Abdulaziz International Airport • 20 km north of the city center
By bus
Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and connects major areas, but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car
Neighborhoods
Al-Balad
Al-Salamah
Al-Kandarah
Day trips
Obhur Creek
15 km north of Jeddah • Half day
A scenic creek with beautiful views, perfect for a relaxing day trip. Enjoy a boat ride, visit the nearby beach, or dine at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Al-Hokair Land
30 km south of Jeddah • Full day
A popular amusement park with a variety of rides, attractions, and entertainment options for all ages.
Festivals
Jeddah Season • December to January
Pro tips
- Visit Al-Balad early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds
- Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and culture of Jeddah
- Try local dishes at traditional restaurants for an authentic culinary experience
- Use the Sary app for bus schedules and routes
- Carry cash for small purchases and tips, as some places may not accept cards
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
