Jeddah discover old Jeddah Albalad
Description
Discover with us one of the most fun experiences in old Jeddah. Before naming it as the royal seaport for Makkah in 657 AD, the Al-Balad site, “Historic Jeddah”, was built on beautiful coastal land. The area has a fascinating history. It was founded in the seventh century and was once the beating heart of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Balad can literally be translated as "The Town. We will Explore the old town and try some traditional dishes and go shopping in the bazaar. Tour Guide License No: 4001392
Tour Options
Itinerary
Start your tour to visit Jeddah’s historical downtown area (Al-Balad) which is the historical area well known as the “Old Town”, where many of the oldest families used to live and work. It boasts of old buildings, a traditional souk and many restaurants, where visitors get to walk amid the old streets and experience the traditional landscape of the old town. When you are in historical Jeddah we will take you back to the old era of Saudi Arabia, all your senses will be in action. You will hear and learn amazing stories about Jeddah and ride and walk through secret doors, Enjoy a wonderful walking Al-Balad.
You will see the old houses and will visit museums, art galleries, cafes and the old markets of the town. This history tour of Old Town will take you along all the less known must-see local spots: Beit Nassif, Makkah gate for a photo stop, Historical Jeddah north gate stop for a photo, other historical houses provide a rare opportunity for you to experience the blend of traditional architecture with modernity Old Market hidden gems, Old Jeddah hidden galleries and Local Jeddah food shops only for locals no tourists know about it
Nassif house museum is the one of most prominent houses in the old town. You will be visiting the Houses of Bashin and Nasif to explore the local artifacts and exhibits, followed by a traditional dinner provided at one of the local shops. A great time for shopping and buying souvenirs is included, as well as some time is spend to relax at local cafes and recreational spaces.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
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Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(16)
Mohammad loves his city and he transferred this love to us with charm and a lot of historical knowledge. It was a great pleasure.
We had an incredible time with Muhammad. He is knowledgeable, friendly and so accommodating. He has an extensive knowledge of Old Jeddah and made the tour captivating for the kids, teens and adults.
It was a walking tour and our guide Mohamed was exceptionally good. He knew detailed information about the sites including mosques, souqs, museums and other attractions. We stopped at few sites for refreshments like local dates, juices and snacks cover by guide. I have few teenagers with me and they didn't get bored. Highly recommend for families or solo travelers. Thanks Mohamed for your hospitality.
We had an absolutely wonderful tour of Al Balad (Old Jeddah) with Muhammed. He is an outstanding guide who truly brings the history and stories of this beautiful area to life. Walking through Al Balad with him felt immersive and meaningful, not just informative. His hospitality was exceptional — we were treated to delicious dates and fresh sugar cane juice, which added a lovely local touch to the experience. Muhammed’s passion for his country is very evident; he clearly loves Saudi Arabia and genuinely enjoys sharing its culture, history, and heritage with his guests. Beyond the tour, he also kindly helped us organise a boat trip to Bayada Island — often called the “Maldives of Saudi Arabia” — which was another unforgettable experience. I would wholeheartedly recommend Muhammed to anyone visiting Jeddah, and I will certainly be recommending him to all my family and friends. An exceptional guide and a truly memorable experience.
We had some trouble to get to the meeting point to meet our guide. We should have gone earlier. Some of the entrance streets were blocked off. The pace was just right and Muhammed gave us nice rest stops.
This is ancient history on the old town. It is a UNESCO heritage site now and is under renovation as most of it is falling sort
Muhammad was an excellent guide—very knowledgeable and polite. He took me to see the highest fountain just in time. I asked many questions about Islam and Jeddah, and he answered all of them patiently and willingly. Highly recommended, especially for women traveling alone—he made me feel completely safe and comfortable. Apologies if I gave you a sore throat with all my questions :)
Had a a wonderful 3 hours walking tour of Al Balad with Muhammad. Such a beautiful, peaceful and wocoming place. Muhammad is a true gentleman with excellent English. He has profound knowledge of the city, culture and history and many insights that were fascinating to listen to. A wonderful time. We started off as strangers, and we finished … as friends. I recommend hugely and wish Muhammad every success. He deserves it.
Mohammed was very a very informative guide and passionate about Jeddah and its traditions. He was one of a very few guides willing to take a single person.
Muhammad was amazing. He made the tour customizable (by changing times when needed), interesting for the children, and gave us a great snapshot of Islam and the importance of Jeddah. He also recommended a great restaurant and helped us order.
