Historical & Heritage Al Balad Tour in Jeddah
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
We will embark on a journey filled with immersive cultural experiences, insider knowledge, and unforgettable encounters with local tradit .The Beginning fom Bab Jadid, meaning "New Gate," is one of the historical gates of old Jeddah. The history of Jeddah dates back to the 6th century BC. It became an important port for pilgrims traveling to Mecca and a vital commercial center. The Four Neighborhoods of Jeddah and Their Stories. Historically, Jeddah was divided into several neighborhoods (Haras). The four main ones are: Al-Mazloum: Named after a local ruler who was unjustly killed. Al-ShamNamed after the Levant (Syria region), reflecting the origin of many of its inhabitants. Al-Yemen: Named after
Available options
Historical & Heritage Al Balad Tour in Jeddah
What's included
Bottled water
food tasting
Guide
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
A Journey to a Distant Heritage begins with:
Jeddah Gate, where its wall was built in the 16th century.
Harat Al-Sham, Al-Mazloum, Al-Bahr, and Al-Yaman, which are neighbourhoods of Old Jeddah still standing today.
The first diplomatic quarter in Saudi Arabia.
We will visit several traditional cafes such as Harat Al-Bahr Café, Layali Jeddah Café, and Sobia Bar.
Artists’ Street + Street 97, Saudi artisans, and traditional markets.
We suggest trying a short workshop on soap making, pottery, or creating Arabic-style gypsum designs and macramé with skilled Saudi artisans. This experience is available at an additional cost. If you're interested, please contact us for details, photos, and scheduling arrangements.
House of the first English language teacher and translator.
Al-Shafi'i Mosque.
Naseef House (the first residence of King Abdulaziz).
Tarek Abdel Hakim Museum (the first Saudi music artist).
Souvenir shops.
Traditional food experience.
End of the tour and return to Bab Jadid.
What's not included
Alcohol
Private transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Written guide
AR
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
5.0
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Bring your own essential medications, such as asthma inhalers.
Pregnant women or those who have back pain and cannot walk for long periods will not be deprived of enjoying this tour. If they feel tired, they can rest in cafes or public seating areas.
Meeting point
Ston gate (Bab Albont)
F5QP+MGM, Almina old gate ,Jeddah 22233, Saudi Arabia
we should meet at Ston gate (Bab Albont)
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
