Jeddah's Magic

7 top-rated places to visit in old Jeddah

The must-visit attractions of Jeddah’s Al Balad, the city’s oldest neighbourhood

It’s simple. The more you travel, the more corners of the world you want to see. But what you add to your travel itinerary can make or break your holiday.

With intrepid travel gurus falling over each other to complete the ultimate travel guide to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, it’s easy to get confused about which are the best places to visit in old Jeddah.

After all, Jeddah’s historic town (or, Al Balad, as the locals call it) is a UNESCO Heritage Site brimming with ancient monuments around every corner of its narrow, winding alleys.

It’s a cultural hub that’s untouched by the ultra-modern buildings of Jeddah, offering a glimpse into the past that will appeal to everyone. There are:

Historical attractions for history buffs
Cultural immersions for wanderlust travellers
Traditional food delights for food lovers

Now, let’s take a closer look at what historic Jeddah is all about.

A snapshot of old Jeddah

Founded in the 7^th century, Jeddah is the second-largest city in Saudi Arabia. The old town emerged as an important trading port and acted as the primary gateway to the holy city of Makkah.

traditional arquitecture in Al balada jeddah old town — Traditional architecture in Old Jeddah by Richard Mortel

Exploring Al Balad: top places to visit in old Jeddah

With so much happening on these cobbled streets and behind the intricate latticework windows, it’s easy to miss important tourist attractions.

Unless you know where you’re going.

So below are some of the best places to visit in old Jeddah.

1 Stop by Bab Jadid gate

Built in 1881 with over 106 rooms, Nassif House went from being a governor’s house, to a temporary royal residence, and then a library with over 16,000 books.

Today, Nassif House is a cultural hub for lectures and art exhibitions.

Bab Jadid Gate in Jeddah old Town — Bab Jadid gate by Richard Morte

2 Visit Nassif House Museum

Built in 1881 with over 106 rooms, Nassif House went from being a governor’s house, to a temporary royal residence, and then a library with over 16,000 books.

Today, Nassif House is a cultural hub for lectures and art exhibitions.

Nassif House Museum — Photo by Sammy Six, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

3 Wander down Baleelah Lane

With all the maze-like alleys going in and out of old Jeddah, every street has its unique charm and vibe.

But Baleelah Lane stands out for its street art and quirky character.

Al Balad Old Jeddah — Photo by Robin Chrystie

4 Step back in time in The Salloum Residence

Built in 1880, The Salloum Residence is a time capsule of bygone days with centuries-old furniture and home appliances, including a vintage gramophone, an antique wall clock and even a kerosene-powered fridge.

Al Balad Jeddah Museum — Photo by Ellie Quinn www.thewanderingquinn.com/

5 Shop at Al-Balad Souk

Even if you’re not on the lookout for souvenirs, Al-Balad Souk’s open-air market is a delightful place to visit in old Jeddah for clothes, exotic fruits, trinkets and whatnot.

Good to know: the market doesn’t open until late afternoon, at 4 pm.

One of the many shops in in the souk in Old Jeddah — Photo by Nouf Kinani

6 Soak in the heritage vibes at Cafe Magad

This beautiful old-fashioned café holds a treasure trove of old photographs and rare documents of the old city of Jeddah.

Visitors can also pore over the small library with Arabic, English and French books while sipping hot and cold drinks and indulging in sweets and pastries.