Taif Travel Guide: Explore Saudi Arabia's Summer Resort

Taif is located in western Saudi Arabia, about 100 kilometers from Mecca. It is famous for its pleasant climate, rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural scenery. As the "summer capital" of Saudi Arabia, Taif is an ideal summer resort during the hot summer. Below is a detailed travel guide to Taif to help you better plan your trip. 1. Best time to travel Spring (March-May): Mild climate, suitable for outdoor activities. Summer (June-September): The temperature in Taif is relatively low, making it the best time to escape the heat. Autumn (October-November): The weather is cool and suitable for sightseeing. 2. Transportation Airplane: Fly from Riyadh or Jeddah to Taif Airport, the flight takes about 1-2 hours. Self-driving: From Jeddah or Mecca, it takes about 2-3 hours to drive along the highway. Public transportation: Saudi Arabia's public transportation system is relatively limited, so it is recommended to rent a car or charter a car for sightseeing. 3. Must-see attractions 1. Shubra Palace Highlights: This historic palace was built in the early 20th century and was once the summer palace of the Saudi royal family. It is now a museum that showcases the history and culture of Taif. Recommended visiting time: 1-2 hours. 2. Taif Rose Gardens Highlights: Taif is famous for its rose cultivation. April to May every year is the rose blooming season. Visitors can visit the rose garden and buy specialties such as rose essential oil. Recommended visiting time: 2 hours. 3. Al Hada Park (Al Hada Mountain) Highlights: Al Qadi Mountain, located near Taif, is a picturesque place suitable for hiking and camping. You can also take a cable car to overlook the beautiful valley. Suggested visit time: half a day. 4. Taif Zoo Highlights: Suitable for family tourists, the park has many animals unique to the Arabian Peninsula. Recommended visiting time: 2-3 hours. 5. Al Wahid Souq Highlights: Traditional markets where you can buy local handicrafts, spices and rose products. Recommended visiting time: 1-2 hours. 6. King Abdullah Park Highlights: Taif's largest park, suitable for walking, picnics, and musical fountain shows at night. Recommended visiting time: 2 hours. 4. Food Recommendations Traditional Saudi dishes: Try Kabsa (spiced rice with chicken or lamb), Mandi (rice with grilled lamb), and Jareesh (wheat porridge). Rose desserts: Taif’s rose desserts and rose tea are local specialties. Recommended restaurants: Albaik: A famous fried chicken fast food restaurant. Al Nakheel Restaurant: Serves traditional Saudi cuisine. 5. Accommodation Recommendations Luxury Hotels: Hilton Taif: complete facilities and first-class service. Sheraton Taif Hotel: Located in the city center, with convenient transportation. Mid-range hotels: Mövenpick Hotel Taif: Great value for money and comfortable environment. Budget accommodation: Al Hada Hotel: Affordable, suitable for travelers on a budget. 6. Shopping Recommendations Rose products: Rose essential oil, rose water and rose perfume are Taif's specialties. Handicrafts: Traditional Arabic handicrafts can be purchased at Souq Wahid. Spices: Taif’s spice souk offers a wide variety of Arabic spices. VII. Precautions Dress: Saudi Arabia has strict dress code. Women are required to wear a long robe (Abaya) and men should avoid wearing shorts. Cultural etiquette: Respect local cultural and religious customs and avoid drinking or smoking in public. Weather: Taif has a relatively cool climate, but the temperature difference between day and night is large, so it is recommended to bring a jacket. Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. 8. Recommended Itinerary 2 days 1 night itinerary Day 1: Arrive at Taif → Visit Shada Palace → Visit Taif Rose Garden → Check in to hotel after dinner. Day 2: Hike or ride the cable car at Mount Al-Qadi → Visit Wahid Bazaar → Return. 3 days 2 nights itinerary Day 1: Arrive at Taif → Visit Shada Palace and Taif Zoo → Check in to hotel after dinner. Day 2: Visit Taif Rose Garden → Go to Al Qadi Mountain → Enjoy the musical fountains in King Abdullah Park at night. Day 3: Shopping (Souk Wahid) → Return. Taif is a charming city, and both its natural scenery and cultural heritage are worth savoring. I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Taif!