Excursion Historic old jeddah tour at Jeddah

Discover the Old Town of Jeddah, its historic homes, and friendly locals.

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to Al Balad, the Old Town of Jeddah and an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Al Balad strives to preserve the history of Old Jeddah, whether in its architecture, narrow alleyways, open squares, uniquely-designed doors, Roshan windows, and/or marketplace. Your walking tour retraces the steps of traders and pilgrims who, for centuries, filled the streets of this bustling old city. Al Balad is also home to more than 400 historic houses dating from 100-1,400 years old. Along the way, visit is made to either Salloum House or Ba'eshen House.

The restored, early-14th-century, Hijazi-style Salloum House is an expansive, four-storey house features remarkably-preserved rooms, furniture, and furnishings. Included are Hijazi-style seats, an old iron, a kerosene-powered fridge, grandmother's room, and a women's living area dedicated to hosting neighbours for tea and conversation, an old custom.

Built in 1856 by Sheik Muhammad Salih, Ba'eshen House serves as a beacon of knowledge and culture, and displays historical treasures such as old collectibles and manuscripts.

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate to extensive amount of walking (approx. 1.24 miles-1.86 miles or 2 km-3km) and about 50 steps at the sites visited and a few to negotiate to get on/off the coach. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. In public, both men and women are asked to dress modestly, avoiding tight-fitting clothes and items with profane language or images. Women should cover their shoulders and knees in public. (Consider packing blouses with sleeves, scarves or shawls for the shoulders and mid- to maxi-length skirts and dresses, capris or pants to cover the knees.) Guests are advised that the consumption of alcohol is illegal in Saudi Arabia.