One of the most culturally rich places to visit in Riyadh, Diriyah is a living museum that can’t be missed. The old town was the capital of the first Al Saud rulers, but its history stretches back even further to the 15th century. Just 20 minutes by car from glitzy downtown, you’ll discover a complex of well-preserved Najdi-style mudbrick buildings and heritage sites. Come early to explore striking Salwa Palace and Unesco-listed At-Turaif before the temperatures climb.

Via Riyadh, the city’s leading luxury lifestyle destination, will impress even the most discerning travellers. In this beautifully designed complex, you’ll find everything from world-class restaurants to designer boutiques, upscale cafes, high-end hotels, live performances, and a cinema with private screening rooms. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night or an epic shopping experience, this is the place to splurge.

You don’t have to look far for an unforgettable side trip. Just outside the city lies the golden-red dunes of Rub Al Khali (also known as the Empty Quarter), which is the largest continuous sandy expanse on Earth. Cruise over the shifting sands on a thrilling 4x4 adventure, surf down the dunes on a sandboard, or camp under the stars for an immersive way to explore this natural treasure.

Nothing stokes the imagination quite like the capital’s colourful bazaars. Among them, Diriyah’s labyrinthine Souq Al-Zal is a treasure trove of antiques, from record players and musical instruments to rare coins and copper pitchers. Meanwhile, Souq Al Thumairi specialises in rugs, jewellery and silverware, and the aptly named Date Souq sells an impressive variety of fresh seasonal dates – a sweet souvenir for any Riyadh holiday.

Occupying a former industrial area, the JAX District features more than 100 refurbished warehouses transformed into art studios, trendy cafés and galleries, including the country’s first Museum of Contemporary Art (also known as SAMOCA). Spend a day exploring the murals and exhibitions and be sure to check the events calendar. From indie festivals to the annual Diriyah Biennale, there are always exciting things to do in Riyadh’s creative heart.

Saudi cuisine is relatively undiscovered compared to food in other regions, but not for long. The capital’s exciting restaurant scene is flourishing, with street-corner shawarma rubbing shoulders with modern bistros, gourmet pop-ups and fine-dining establishments alike. While exploring, don’t miss beloved dishes from across the country, such as kabsa (tender chicken with spiced yellow rice) and jareesh (cracked wheat porridge with meat and broth).

Made of clay and mudbrick, the Al Masmak Fort (also called the Al Masmak Palace) was built in the capital’s former walled city in the late 19th century when various emirs battled for power. Explore its humble mosque, majlis (sitting room) and shaded courtyard, then take a short walk to visit other fascinating sites nearby – including Al-Hukm Palace, Deerah Souq and the Grand Mosque – to dive deeper into the region’s history.

Horses have always been central to Saudi culture. In fact, the Arabian horse is one of the world’s oldest and most prized breeds. First-timers and expert equestrians alike can go on all kinds of horseback adventures, from beach rides to desert excursions. For a shorter day out, visit one of the city’s prestigious equestrian clubs and stables, where travellers of all ages can enjoy one-on-one instructions on gorgeous Arabian horses – a perfect family-friendly activity, especially in the cooler winter months.

Few places better embody the kingdom’s growth and affluence than the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD). Sprawling across 1.6 million square metres, this unique Riyadh attraction is an architectural treasure trove with over 90 striking buildings – including the 385-metre-tall KAFD World Trade Centre and Grand Mosque – designed by world-renowned firms. Between them are shopping centres, bustling restaurants, cafés and the Wadi, a low-lying public space that hosts markets, wellness events, live music and more.

About 2.5 hours from Riyadh sits the Judah Thumb. Rising from the desert sands in the Eastern Province, this towering rock formation is one of the country’s most stunning off-the-beaten-path destinations. Head out on an off-road Jeep or camel adventure with a guide, exploring the nearby caves and cliffs, then spend the night camping in blissful solitude under the stars.