If you’re looking to enjoy the coast, Jeddah is one of Saudi’s most liberal and artsy cities. It’s the second largest city after Riyadh, the capital, and the largest city in Makkah Province. If you’re hoping to scuba dive, Jeddah is the place! If you’re hoping to hike, Moon Valley is about an hour’s drive north of Jeddah. If you’re in Jeddah at the right time, you won’t want to miss the Red Sea Film Festival.
Riyadh is the capital of Saudi Arabia, and it’s full of both skyscrapers and museums. If you’re looking for hikes, the Edge of the World is just outside of the city. If you’re hoping to enjoy traditional local food from the city, you can check out Najd Village restaurant.
Jazan is the city to visit if you can make it to the south. A port city, it’s also a jumping-off point for a trip to Farasan Islands, known for its white sand beaches and coral islets. If you’re renting a car and able to make the trip, the acclaimed Jabal Sawda in Asir National Park is said to be Saudi’s tallest mountain peak and is about a three-hour drive from Jazan.