Are you tired of crowded tourist spots and longing for a peaceful escape?
A valuable part of this calm mountain in Saudi Arabia is the cool winds, lush green landscape, and history and culture. In this city, you can enjoy an adventure, have a good time, or even taste the famous Taif roses.
Trekking with its wonderful attractions and creating fairy-tale memories at a place where nature blends beautifully with tradition. Let’s unravel the top 8 places to visit in this beautiful city!
Shubra Palace
This museum-preservation building dates back to Egypt during the Muslim era in Al Taif. Shubra Palace is especially famous for its Islamic architecture, latticework details, and grand marble ascent. Once royal property, it is now a historical monument that still defines the region’s vibrant culture.
Traditional and modern features strangely combine to inspire visitors with glimpses of the luxury associated with Saudi Arabia’s history. Exploring other places to visit in Madinah while travelling there will provide much further travel inspiration.
Things to do in Shubra Palace:
- Visit the museum exhibits to uncover the royal history of the palace.
- Be awed by the extraordinarily intricate and beautiful Islamic architecture and interiors.
- Click on fabulous pictures of this historical site.
Located: In the heart of Al Taif City.
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Fridays).
The easiest way to get there: By taxi or private car from the city center.
Entrance fee: Free.
Al Rudaf Park
Al Rudaf Park is a lush and beautifully landscaped park in Al Taif, perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, and family outings. It features unique rock formations, serene walking trails, and a vibrant fountain show.
Things to do at Al Rudaf Park:
- Take a hearty picnic in a green environment.
- With the nice weather, get out and go for a nature trail for a walk.
- Visit the place in the evening to enjoy an outstanding fountain show.
- Enjoy the magnificent rock icon and scenery of the park.
Located: Southeast of Al Taif City.
Operating hours: 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily.
The easiest way to get there: By private car or taxi from the city center.
Entrance fee: Free
Taif Cable Car
The Taif Cable Car is a great and extremely exciting experience providing vantage views of the Al Hada Mountains and valleys. The same link connects a mountain top and the beautiful Al Kar Tourist Village, and that’s what many visitors never forget. For more ideas on other places of interest to visit in Makkah on your journey.
Things to do at Taif Cable Car:
- Enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and valleys during the ride.
- Visit the Al Kar Tourist Village for dining and recreation.
- Capture stunning photos of the landscape.
Located: Al Hada Mountain, near Taif City.
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
The easiest way to get there: Drive or take a taxi to Al Hada Mountain.
Entrance fee: SAR 50–70 per person (varies by age and timing).
Souk Okaz
It is noteworthy that Souk Okaz is a colourful cultural market in Al Taif that will help you get acquainted with the historical work and feel the atmosphere of traditional craft making, poetry and dancing. This historic bazaar captures the greatest potential of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and gives its tourists a taste of art, cuisine and culture all in one location. Mina Tours offers varied Umrah Packages and religious tours that are easy on your spirit while you visit nearby tourist attractions.
Things to do at Souk Okaz:
- Shop for authentic handmade crafts and traditional goods.
- Watch captivating poetry recitals and cultural performances.
- Indulge in delicious local dishes and snacks.
- Discover the history and traditions of the Arabian Peninsula.
Located: 40 km northeast of Al Taif City.
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (seasonal; usually open during cultural festivals).
The easiest way to get there: Drive or hire a taxi from Al Taif City.
Entrance fee: Free.
Wadi Mitna
Wadi Mitna is a cool valley around Al Taif. It has such lovely nature with its crystal clear streams and rich greenery. Nature lovers and adventure seekers will find it a wonderful place to escape from city life. Find more sites to visit near this natural oasis as you journey to these spots in Jeddah.
Things to do at Wadi Mitna:
- Go for a nature trail usually offered as a hike or walking through the valley.
- Go for a swim in the lovely clear water of the streams.
- One can enjoy an active or passive kind of walk by the river and have a feast by the waterside.
Located: 20 km southwest of Al Taif City.
Operating hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
The easiest way to get there: By car, heading south from Al Taif City.
Entrance fee: Free.
Taif Regional Museum
The Taif Regional Museum will present an introduction to the historical and cultural background of the region, and an explanation of the archaeological material, artefacts and exhibits that will show why Taif is significant for the history of Saudi Arabia. This should be on the list of historic places and to anyone who wants to read more on the history of the region.
Things to do at Taif Regional Museum:
- Enjoy the display of art pieces and other fascinating relics which are exhibited in the museum.
- Get more detailed information about Taif and its importance to Saudi Arabia and its people.
- Take guided tours for more information concerning the different areas of interest
Located: Al Shafa Road, Taif City.
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, closed on Fridays.
The easiest way to get there: By taxi or private car from Taif City center.
Entrance fee: SAR 10–15 per person
Traditional Souks
Today, local souks can be seen in Al Taif, where tourists can buy all sorts of local products, including spices, perfumes, textiles, jewellery, and more. These busy markets beautifully represent Saudi culture and offer visitors a fantastic opportunity to find something special to remember their trip. To make your spiritual journey even better, check out the most suitable Hajj packages to enhance your Saudi vacation.
Things to do at Traditional Souks:
- Shop for handmade crafts, spices, and local products.
- Experience the lively atmosphere and traditional market culture.
- Try delicious local treats and sweets.
Located: In the heart of Al Taif City.
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
The easiest way to get there: Accessible by walking from the city centre or by taxi.
Entrance fee: Free.
Al Shareef Museum
Al Shareef Museum is one of the best museums in Al Taif that comprises numerous exposures of the limited antique articles, art collectables and historical items that provide a history and ancestry of Saudi Arabia. Also, don’t miss exploring other remarkable places to visit in Riyadh to enrich your travel experience.Well, it is a perfect spot for any history lover and those who would like to expand the information about the historical background of the area.
Things to do at Al Shareef Museum:
- Visit sections that feature antiques and unique pieces of the collection.
- Acquire more information about Saudi Arabia, its past and present through vivid presentations.
- If you want to add a bit of an adventurous/interesting experience, then one should take a guided tour.
Located: Al Shafa Road, Taif City.
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily.
The easiest way to get there: By taxi or private car from Taif City center.
Entrance fee: SAR 15–20 per person.
Conclusion:
Al Taif is a city with nature, culture, and history that all make it a great attraction for visitors. However, the city’s tourist attraction interest is enormous ranging from the magnificent greenery of Al Rudaf Park to the historical Shubra Palace and Souk Okaz. If you fancy a ride to the mountainside through the Taif cable car or shopping at the native souks then Taif has them all. Travel with us at Mina Tours for quality Hajj and Umrah packages. Get in touch with us for an amazing trip through the central part of Saudi Arabia!
