Jeddah in 1 Day for Couples - Explore Bab Jadid and the city walls
In Collaboration with Taleed tour guide. Updated on February 21, 2026.
A 3-hour guided walking tour of Al-Balad (historic Jeddah) exploring gates, old neighbourhoods, historic houses, mosques, artists' streets, and traditional cafés with coffee/tea and food tastings included. The tour begins and ends at Bab Amina / Bab Jadid in Al-Balad.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Taleed tour guide, inspired by the tour Historical & Heritage Al Balad Tour in Jeddah. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Explore Bab Jadid and the city walls
- Walk through Harat Al-Sham, Al-Mazloum, Al-Bahr, and Al-Yaman
- Visit Naseef House and Al-Shafi'i Mosque
- Traditional café tasting and Artists' Street shopping
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet at Bab Amina (stone gate) — tour briefing
Meet the guide at Bab Amina (stone gate) in Al-Balad for check-in, safety briefing, and orientation to the route.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 5–10 minutes early to allow time for check-in.
- Wear modest, comfortable clothing suitable for walking in a historic district.
- Keep a small bag or pouch for valuables; pockets can pick up dust in the old market streets.
Jeddah Gate (Bab Jadid) — history & overview
Short walk to and interpretation at the historic city gate, including a brief overview of Al-Balad's role as a port and gateway for pilgrims and traders.
Tips from local experts:
- Stand in the shaded areas when the guide is presenting to avoid direct sun exposure.
- Ask the guide about how the gate and walls evolved — it's a good photo spot around golden hour.
- Keep cameras ready; the gate area can be busy with pedestrians in the evening.
House of the first English-language teacher & first diplomatic quarter (overview)
Brief stop to point out the location and story of the first English-language teacher and the site of Jeddah's earliest diplomatic quarter (context and visible exterior features only).
Tips from local experts:
- This stop is exterior-only; plan to remain standing for the short presentation.
- Maintain respectful distance from private residences and follow the guide's instructions.
- If you need seating, tell the guide in advance; there are nearby cafés with seating after the stop.
Walk through the historic neighbourhoods: Harat Al-Sham, Al-Mazloum, Al-Bahr, Al-Yaman
Guided walking sequence through the four main Harats of old Jeddah, with commentary on their histories, architecture, and community life.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear closed, comfortable walking shoes—the streets are uneven and may have loose paving.
- Carry a small bottle of water; bottled water is included but keep it accessible while walking.
- Follow the guide’s pace; parts of Al-Balad have narrow alleys with limited passing space.
Al-Shafi'i Mosque — exterior visit and context
Short visit outside Al-Shafi'i Mosque to explain its historical and cultural significance. Respectful behaviour and modest dress required when near mosque entrances.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and remove shoes only where indicated by signage.
- Photography of worshippers should be avoided; ask the guide before taking close-up photos.
- This stop is brief and primarily exterior; the guide will indicate if indoor entry is possible that evening.
Naseef House — historic residence visit (exterior & narration)
Visit and commentary at Naseef House, one of Al-Balad's most notable historic residences tied to local governance and the early modern period.
Tips from local experts:
- The house is historic; do not climb on walls or touch delicate architecture.
- There may be crowds at popular viewpoints—keep personal items secure.
- If you wish to enter (subject to opening hours), let the guide know so they can advise on access.
Tarek Abdel Hakim Museum — music heritage highlight
Short stop to highlight the legacy of Tarek Abdel Hakim and the cultural history of music in Jeddah (exterior overview and stories).
Tips from local experts:
- This is typically an exterior/interpretive stop; check with the guide for any limited indoor access.
- Be mindful of quiet zones if the building is in use for cultural events.
- Carry small change if you wish to purchase printed materials or small souvenirs nearby.
Traditional cafés and food tasting (coffee/tea and local bites)
Relax at a traditional café for included coffee/tea and local food tasting. The guide will suggest a selection of small tastings representative of the area.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform the guide of any food allergies or dietary restrictions before tastings begin.
- Cafés in Al-Balad can be intimate; table space is limited—keep bags close to avoid cluttering seating.
- Drinks may be served very sweet in traditional style; request less sugar if preferred.
Artists' Street (Street 97) & souvenir shopping
Stroll Artists' Street / Street 97 to see Saudi artisans, traditional crafts, and small souvenir shops. Time to browse and ask artisans about techniques.
Tips from local experts:
- Bargaining styles vary; be polite and expect fixed prices in some shops.
- Many artisans accept cash; keep small bills and coins handy for small purchases.
- Inspect fragile items before purchase and ask the artisan about packing for travel.
Return to Bab Jadid — wrap-up and farewells
Walk back to Bab Jadid / Bab Amina for a short wrap-up, final questions, and tour close.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm meeting point and local transport options before dispersing.
- If you need a taxi or ride-hail, the guide can point out convenient pickup spots nearby.
- Keep any purchases separated for easy transport; some streets are cobbled and uneven.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 10 |
| Total Places | 10 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Culture, Neighborhood, Meal, Shopping, Break |