After fulfilling the spiritual rituals and exploring the sacred sites and attractions in Makkah (also known as Mecca), day or weekend trips are a great way to broaden your travel experience in the surrounding region. These trips offer an opportunity to explore the rich history, natural beauty and cultural depth of Saudi and provide a complementary perspective. Whether you're a local in need of a short break or a visitor eager to discover more, here are some of the top destinations just a short journey from Makkah.
1. Taif
Follow the scented route to Taif to get a taste of la vie en rose. If you’re looking to escape from the desert heat and take in some beautiful nature, the City of Roses is the perfect choice. Perched on a high elevation in the Sarawat Mountains, it has blissful weather, breathtaking views and is a nature lover’s paradise thanks to its amazing flower fields and fruit orchids – perfect for a day away or weekend break.
April is the best time to marvel at the blankets of exquisite roses in the fields and, of course, it’s when you can visit the unmissable, world-famous Taif Rose Festival. The intense yet soft smell of the Taif rose, a Damask species, permeates the air, while its 30 oil-rich petals are a glorious pink vision. A family picnic in the designated areas or a stroll around the 500-sq-m Arruddaf Park, known for its different rock formations, is another outing with nature as a focus. The live music shows and interactive water fountains make it the perfect family spot.
History buffs won’t be disappointed either. Shubra Palace, a royal residence that was turned into a museum, is a stunning combination of Roman and Islamic characteristics. The four-storey palace featuring beautiful greenery is a premier example of old Taif, with details like latticework windows and balconies, and Carrara marble. Check opening times before visiting.
How to get to Taif from Makkah: Taif is just an hour-long scenic drive from Makkah. You can rent a car or take a taxi, but there’s also a Northwest bus from the city’s central bus station that takes around twice as long.
2. Jeddah
Jeddah, the gateway to Makkah for pilgrims and known as the Bride of the Red Sea, definitely deserves a whole weekend as there’s so much to do in the family-friendly port city. Beachgoers are spoilt for choice with the many beautiful stretches of sand dotted along Obhur – opt to relax or get adventurous, whether through diving or the various water sports available. Art enthusiasts will find a lively cultural scene, with the likes of Nesma Art Gallery, Darat Safeya Binzagr and ATHR Gallery.
Ancient Jeddah has a rich cultural heritage and you can experience this by getting lost in Al Balad’s maze-like narrow, cobbled streets, which hold centuries-old stories. As well as vibrant markets, the UNESCO World Heritage Site has must-visit museums like Nassif House Museum and Bait Al Balad. The picturesque Jeddah Corniche, King Fahd’s Fountain, the tallest in the world, and the famous mosques are other reasons to visit. That’s not to mention the lively atmosphere and the array of restaurants, ranging from incredible seafood to all kinds of international fare and fine-dining options.
How to get to Jeddah from Makkah: Jeddah is just an hour’s drive from Makkah. There’s also the quicker train option on the Haramain High-Speed Railway, with hourly choices that get you to Jeddah’s Al Sulimaniyah station. Additionally, there’s a Northwest bus route that’s available.
3. Al Wahbah Crater
Discover an otherworldly experience at one of Saudi’s natural wonders. Al Wahbah Crater is on the western edge of the Harrat Kishb basalt plateau, known for its many volcanic cones. The circular volcanic crater, the deepest and largest in Saudi, has a lake at the bottom that evaporates in the summer and turns into a sabkha (salt flat), while wild plants grow on its edges in the rainy season. And it’s possible to get down there to see the unique geological features up close.
The desert landscape and mountains that surround the hollow, dramatic crater, which is around 380m deep, make it an extremely scenic outing. Hiking enthusiasts can spot striking rock formations and local flora and fauna along the well-defined hiking trail, which is appropriate for all levels of fitness. As well as the viewpoints, made of black volcanic boulders, there’s a visitor centre and a digital exhibition hall.
Whether you’re a geology fan, looking for a hiking adventure or a tranquil place to connect with nature, Al Wahbah Crater won’t disappoint. Since it’s a bit further away from Makkah, there’s the option of camping overnight – a fun, affordable adventure beloved by kids. For the romantics, nothing beats a sunset or sunrise in the lava fields, or a quiet night under a stunning sky full of stars.
How to get to Al Wahbah Crater from Makkah: The drive to Al Wahbah Crater takes around four hours.
4. Al Lith
Al Lith, the fifth largest city in Makkah Province, is a delightful coastal gem and quiet getaway, perfect for those who love being by the sea. The crystal clear waters and beaches are a major draw and if you want to go further afield, a trip out to sea to enjoy snorkelling, fishing or diving is easy to arrange. A boat ride to Jabal Al Lith, an island gaining international recognition just over 30 minutes away, is a highlight. On the way to the island with a diverse landscape and breathtaking sunsets, there’s a possibility of spotting whale sharks during spring.
Additionally, Al Lith makes the perfect break for wellness aficionados thanks to its accessible hot springs park. Known locally as Ain Al Harrah, the therapeutic hot spring includes 19 sub-springs, great for relaxing and rejuvenating. As well as dipping your feet in the sulphurous water that’s naturally heated by geothermal activity, there are seven wooden sauna huts to try out. Additional spaces for meditation ensure you’ll be leaving in a calm state of mind.
In general, this is a great family destination as it offers big green areas that are perfect for picnics, a playground and an opportunity to camp.
How to get to Al Lith from Makkah: Al Lith is a two-and-a-half hour drive from Makkah.
