Historical & Heritage Tour in Jeddah Al Balad
Overview
Available languages
5 hours
Mobile ticket
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.
Itinerary:
1. Pick up from the hotel or the Cruise Pier.
2. Start walking around the unique buildings
3. Grabbing local beverages in an old cafe.
4. Visiting Al Shafei's old mosque.
5. Visiting Biet Nassif.
6. Visiting Gabel Street Souq (bazaar).
7. Driving back to the hotel or the Cruise Pier.
Tour Guide License No: 40000923
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Al-Balad
Starts with walking around the unique buildings and learning about albalad history.
Nassif House Museum
See a 700-year-old flag mast and a 15th-century cannon at this restored building, one of several crumbling structures preserved by the government.
What‘s Included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Purchase
Dinner
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Historical & Heritage Tour in Jeddah Al Balad
Pickup included
Reviews
71 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Fantastic guide & tour
Diotima Aus,Mar 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Sulaiman is a fantastic guide, intelligent, enthusiastic and generous with his knowledge. It was a delight spending time with him and gaining first hand knowledge of the Saudi culture and Jeddah old city.
Great guide & interesting tour
Ann B,Mar 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Sulaiman was an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide. We loved our time exploring the old city of Jeddah.
Rich storytelling and great eats - Al-Balad Walking Tour,Jeddah
missm819,Dec 31, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour felt like stepping into Jeddah’s story rather than simply walking through it! Exploring Al-Balad with Abdullah was an absolute pleasure. He picked us up from our hotel and dropped us back, which made the whole experience easy from the start. We arrived late due to a flight delay, and he was immediately accommodating and flexible. Calm, patient, and quietly humorous, he set such a relaxed tone that carried through the tour. Abdullah brought Jeddah’s long and layered history to life. He explained its 3,000-year heritage, its role as a major seaport, and how trade and pilgrimage shaped it into a multicultural crossroads. Walking through Al-Balad, Abdullah talked us through beautiful multi-storey buildings owned by historic trading families, many over 100 years old. The architecture, especially the intricate windows, was full of colour, character and charm. He guided us through hidden corners and meaningful sites, adding stories and anecdotes that made everything feel personal and alive. He knew exactly where to stop for photos and shared thoughtful local tips along the way. We also enjoyed Saudi coffee, fresh cane sugar juice, tameez bread, and ful at a local eatery, plus visits to bakeries and small shops selling handmade wares by Saudi and international artists. It was wonderful to see a local creative scene thriving. ☺️ What truly made the tour special was Abdullah himself. His warmth, professionalism, and deep knowledge gave us real context for Jeddah’s past, present, and future. Without his storytelling, we simply wouldn’t have had the same understanding or enjoyment. If you’re visiting Jeddah, he’s the perfect guide to show you the city, for without the context you will miss the wonderful character behind the modern city. Thank you Abdullah, we would love to visit Jeddah again.
Al Balad, Old Jeddah City Tour
Ramyavishwanath19,Dec 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great experience with our guide Abdullah, he is passionate to explain and share the history and story of Al Balad, Old Jeddah. We got to see the buildings and had an immersive experience as we spent close to 3.5 hours walking thru the old parts to the new souk. The tour is a well paced one allowing us time to understand, take pictures. We got a chance to see the inside of an prominent house and the music museum was really good too. The Saudi hospitality was reflective throughout the tour. Abdullah was fantastic, he went out of his way to give us a fantastic experience, even stopping at a place for shawerma and getting us the shisha tobacco. We definitely recommend this tour to anyone visiting Jeddah.
Exploring the Timeless Heritage of Al Balad, Jeddah, Through Its Rich Culture, History, and Authentic Stories
Passport14890350418,Dec 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent Historical & Heritage Al Balad Tour in Jeddah. The tour was very well organized and offered a fascinating insight into the rich history and culture of Al Balad. Walking through the old streets, traditional houses, and heritage sites was truly memorable. The guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate, making the experience even more engaging. A must-do tour for anyone visiting Jeddah who wants to understand its history and heritage.
Baggage fraud with Saudia Airline
davidbR9320BJ,Dec 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00Prior to travelling I checked my baggage allowance with Saudia Alfursan and my travel agent . At check in my baggage was decline and had to pay 1030 SAR cash in order to have my baggage checked . I have tried to lodge complaint on-line with the airline , Customer Complaint link doesn't work . All emails sent have gone unanswered . Have contacted my travel agent , they have also been unable to contact the carrier.
Most amazing visit to Jeddah
deannalB6274MZ,Nov 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing tour. Sulaiman was knowledgeable and kind. Jeddah is a very beautiful city and so much history and places to visit.
Al Balad evening trip.
Janeux,Nov 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was very great. Our guide Abdullah way very kind. He us a lot of information about the old Jeddah. It was an excellent showing of the Al Balad.
Great tour!
Shiela C,Oct 26, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00My friend and I had an amazing tour with our guide Sulaiman. He arrived on time for hotel pick up, friendly and knowledgeable.
Great to know Jeddah's story
ilton104,Sep 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00It was great to learn about the culture and the tales of the old city! I really enjoyed the experience. We started from the new Cornish and walked around Al Balad, stopping in cozy cafes and nice, typical restaurants.
From US$129.00
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Operated by Abha Trips