Transit in Riyadh: How To Spend The Best 48 Hrs in Riyadh

If you are going to have a 48 hr or more transit in Riyadh, don’t just stay at your hotel room.

Riyadh may not be as popular as other Gulf cities like Dubai or Doha, but there are actually a lot of things to do and beautiful places to check out while you’re here.

I’ve been an expat in Riyadh for about a year now, and I want to share the exact places I have been to and I think you should definitely check them out even if you have 48 hrs to explore the city.

DAY 1 – MORNING

Kingdom Sky Bridge

You can’t miss this skyscraper, it’s easily the most famous landmark in the city. People call it the Kingdom Tower.

And if you’re a LOTR fan, you’ll immediately see why people joke that it looks like the “Eye of Sauron”.

Once you get inside, there is plenty to explore.

The building actually houses a really nice mall (Kingdom Tower Mall) at the base, and it is also home to the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh.

So the hospitality vibe there is top-notch.

But the one thing you really don’t want to miss is the Sky Bridge. It offers a view that overlooks the entire city, and it is honestly breathtaking.

I highly recommend heading there in the late morning, maybe around 10 or 11 AM after you’ve had a good breakfast.

While the Sky Bridge elevator usually opens around noon (12 PM) on weekdays, getting there a bit early lets you walk around the mall and take some great photos of the tower’s architecture from the ground without the crowds.

Ticket Fees

Adults: SAR 138
Kids: SAR69
Disabled person: Free
Website: Book Kingdom Tower Skybridge Ticket

DAY 1 – EVENING

Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah

If you want to see the old city of Riyadh, where the heritage and ancient mud-brick architecture are beautifully preserved, you have to go to Diriyah.

Specifically, head to Bujairi Terrace.

The place is stunning and totally Instagram-worthy.

Walking through it feels like you have been transported back to a different time, but with modern luxury.

The best hack for getting in is to secure a restaurant reservation at the Terrace.

Usually, the entry fee is SAR 50 per person (which is often redeemable against your food bill), but having a dinner reservation is the smoothest way to guarantee access to this beautiful heritage district.

However, if you visited Bujairi terrace before 5pm on weekdays, the entrance are free.

DAY 2 – MORNING

KAFD (King Abdullah Financial District)

For your second morning, I highly recommend heading to KAFD.

It is basically a city within a city and features some of the most insane architecture you will ever see.

This is the business heart of Riyadh, but you don’t need to be a businessman to enjoy it.

I just love walking around here with my husband as it is very pedestrian-friendly area that winds through the skyscrapers.

It’s often quiet on weekend mornings, and the shadows from the towers keep it relatively cool.

You should definitely look for the KAFD Grand Mosque while you are there.

It’s shaped like a desert rose and doesn’t look like a traditional mosque at all. It is a true architectural masterpiece.

You can grab a coffee at one of the trendy cafes in the district and just soak in the futuristic vibes.

DAY 2 – AFTERNOON

Al Masmak Fortress

After a modern morning, you can spend your afternoon diving into history. You can visit the Al Masmak Fortress.

This is where the story of modern Saudi Arabia really began.

It’s a beautiful mud-brick fortress that stands in stark contrast to the modern city around it.

Can you go inside this fortress? The answer is yes. Now it has become a museum and open for public with no entrance fee.

DAY 3 – EVENING

Boulevard World

Lastly, you can finish your trip with a bang at Boulevard World.

This is a massive entertainment event that takes place during Riyadh Season, which usually runs from October to May.

You can literally walk from one country to another in a matter of minutes.

Imagine the Global Village in Dubai, but the Saudi version.

Each country zone features authentic food, music, live performances, and shops specific to that culture.

There is also a massive man-made lake in the center where you can take boat rides, and there is even a cable car that glides over the whole park.

It really is a fun place to explore while you are in Riyadh, but come prepared to spend comfortably.

If you want to enjoy the rides, experience the paid entertainment, and do some shopping, you might need around $260 (SAR 1000) for two adults.

Also, bear in mind that you will need minimum 3 hours to see everything, and you will be walking a lot.

If you are visiting with toddlers, I highly advise bringing a stroller.

It’s a lifesaver when they get tired, and it gives you a chance to take a break, too.

You can also easily grab dinner here, as there are plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries to choose from.

I share my whole experience at Boulevard World along with some tips if you’re visiting for the first time.

WHERE TO EAT IN RIYADH

There are so many nice eateries here, and as an expat, I can vouch that you will rarely find bad food in this city.

Riyadh has vast options depending on what you’re in the mood for. I’d highly recommend checking out these restaurants if you want a modern, delicious breakfast:

Popular Breakfast and Brunch Spots in Riyadh

Zalata

If you want modern twist to a Mediterranean breakfast, check Zalata out. My favorite meal from them is the “Special Zalata Shakshuka”

Location: Zalata (Riyadh Park Mall)

Brekkie

If you fancy for eggs benedict or fluffy pancakes, this is a safe bet that everyone in your group will find something they love.

Location: Brekkie All Day Brunch & Cafe

Bellbird

This spot feels a bit more sophisticated and focuses on organic, artisanal ingredients. Their sourdough bread is some of the best in the city based on reviews

Location: Bellbird