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5 Hidden Spots Near Riyadh That You Need To Visit At Least Once In Your Life
Riyadh always has a lot to do; there’s no doubt about it. But sometimes, you just need to escape the city noise and find a hidden oasis stuck in time (or cave!). So, ditch the usual tourist spots and buckle up for a Riyadh adventure—these secret gems are totally worth the day trip.
1. The Bat Cave
Feeling adventurous? Head to the Bat Cave for a dose of chills (and maybe some actual bats—it is their cave, after all!). This natural wonder is a unique spot for some spelunking (cave exploring), in which you can head in for about 120 meters. Just be sure to pack a headlamp; it can get pretty dark in there! And while you’re in the area, why not check out the nearby Edge of the World for an added thrill?
2. Al-Subaie Historic Palace
History buffs, this one’s for you! Located about a two-hour drive to the west of Riyadh, the mudbrick palace offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of the oasis of Shaqra. Don’t forget to swing by the Hlewa Heritage Market for some traditional handicrafts afterwards.
3. King Abdulaziz Palace’s In Dawadimi
If you’ve loved the royal palace in AlKharj, then you definitely need to drive 3 hours to the west of Riyadh to Dawadimi. The palace here has that classic Arabian palace charm and was commissioned by King Abdulaziz. It is said that the king himself personally laid the foundation of this palace back in 1930–31.
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4. Audat Sudair
The historic village of Audat Sudair stands almost as if it were stuck in time. Walk through its narrow lanes and let your mind imagine what life was like in the past. It’s almost the kind of town where you’d imagine Aladdin jumping over roofs. The best part? It’s a little over an hour away to the north of Riyadh.
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5. Ain Heet Cave
They say the entrance of the cave looks like an eye, but that’s not the cool part. The real beauty here is the underground pond. People actually swim in it. Whether you decide to swim or simply snap some envy-inducing photos for Instagram, one thing’s for sure: this cave is worth the visit.
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