Riyadh, the beating heart of Saudi Arabia, is more than just a city of shimmering skyscrapers and high-tech marvels. While its state-of-the-art architecture, luxury shopping, and diverse international cuisine draw visitors in, Riyadh also serves as a gateway to some of the Kingdom’s most spectacular natural and historical treasures.

Just beyond the city’s sprawl, you’ll find World Heritage Sites, breathtaking desert vistas, ancient mud villages, and untouched natural wonders—all within easy reach for an unforgettable day trip. Whether you seek adventure, history, or nature, Riyadh never fails to inspire. From quad biking over golden dunes to trekking through hidden caves or hiking along the dramatic cliffs of the Edge of the World, the city offers endless possibilities for exploration.

The following are the best day trips and things to do in Riyadh. Let’s dive right in!

Only 40 minutes southwest of Riyadh, close to the settlement of Al Awsat, is one of the most thrilling places to visit in Riyadh—the Red Sands. Bordered by the towering Tuwaiq Mountains, these undulating brick-red dunes are the ultimate playground for thrill seekers and weekend warriors.

Motor up a quad bike and speed over the dunes, climb the tall red dune hills in a 4x4, or just relax while the sun sets over the desert, dyeing the ground with warm golden hues. After the nightfall, nothing beats enjoying up a pot of aromatic kawa (Saudi coffee) on a barbecue and lounging under the starry desert sky.

Location: Red Sands, Al Awsat area

Drive Time: Approximately 40 minutes from Riyadh

Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for cooler weather & beautiful sunsets

Activities: Quad biking, 4x4 dune bashing, picnicking, and stargazing

For adrenaline junkies seeking a lifetime experience, Jebel Fihrayn, also known as the Edge of the World, is an absolute visit. Nestled deep inside the Tuwaiq Escarpment, northwestern Riyadh, this spectacular geological wonder presents breathtaking, unobstructed vistas over the vast, endless desert—such as standing at the very edge of the Earth itself. The trip is no cakewalk—be prepared for a three-hour ride over rough country in a 4x4 vehicle for a good dose of adventure. But the payoff is worth it.

Location: Tuwaiq Escarpment, northwest of Riyadh

Drive Time: ~3 hours from Riyadh (4x4 required)

Best Time to Visit: At sunrise or sunset to get the most spectacular views

Activities: Hiking, photography, picnicking, star-gazing

Ever fantasized about exploring a secret oasis in the middle of the desert? The Hidden Canyon—a breathtaking, arid wadi that becomes a natural swimming wonderland after winter rains—is all set to enchant you. The sculpted-out rock formations yield crystal-clear pools, ideal for a cool splash, set amidst a peaceful desert landscape. Off Route 509, an hour southeast of Riyadh, this off-the-beaten-track area is quiet during the week but fills up with picnickers and BBQ enthusiasts on the weekend.

 Location: Off Route 509, Southeast of Riyadh

Drive Time: Approximately 1 hour from Riyadh

Best Time to Visit: Winter or following heavy rains

Activities: Swimming, hiking, picnicking

Pro Tip: Check weather conditions before heading out, as water levels vary throughout the year.

Tucked 45 minutes southeast of Riyadh, Heet Cave is an adventure haven featuring a deep, aqua-green underground pool nestled within a massive rock face. The journey into the cave is an experience in itself—expect to navigate steep inclines, loose boulders, and sharp rock formations as you descend. Along the way, you might encounter nesting birds and bats, adding to the cave’s raw, natural appeal. Use the available ropes for support and tread carefully. Once inside, the crystal-clear, cool water is an irresistible invitation for a dip—but be mindful of hidden shallow rocks beneath the surface.

Location: Off Route 65, Southeast of Riyadh

Drive Time: ~45 minutes from Riyadh

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or weekday to avoid crowds

Activities: Caving, swimming, rock climbing, photography

Only 20 minutes from Riyadh, Dir'iyah is a must-see for history enthusiasts. As the birthplace of the Al Saud royal family, this UNESCO World Heritage Site provides a glimpse into Saudi Arabia's rich history with its fully restored mud-brick palaces, mosques, and narrow alleyways. Walk through Al Turaif, the center of historic Dir'iyah, and enjoy the beautiful ornate doors, regal staircases, and ornate wooden carvings that reveal the stories of a forgotten past. Explore the royal mud palaces, where Nasser and Saad Ibn Saud once dwelled, and see the Al Turaif bathhouse, a work of art in traditional Arabian architecture.

Location: Dir'iyah, ~20 minutes from Riyadh

Activities: Walk through historic palaces, tour museums, stroll picturesque alleyways

For the ultimate desert adventure, travel to the Rub' Al Khali, or Empty Quarter - one of the not-to-miss day trips from Riyadh and the largest sand desert on the planet. Only 2-3 hours from Riyadh along Route 10, this otherworldly landscape of golden dunes is a dream come true for desert adventurers, off-road adventurers, and thrill seekers.

But be aware—it's not for the faint of heart. If you dream of following great explorers like Wilfred Thesiger or St. John Philby, make sure to come prepared. For a richer experience, opt for a multi-day trek with overnight stops at ancient wells and a secret oasis known only to local Bedouin tribes.

Location: Rub' Al Khali (Empty Quarter), ~2-3 hours from Riyadh

Best Method of Getting There: 4x4 with a seasoned guide

Activities: Off-roading, sandboarding, camping out under the stars, visiting secluded oases