Top 5 attractions in Riyadh you shouldn't miss

If it is your first time in the culturally cool Riyadh and you want to know the top attractions, then we've got just the guide for you! We picked out five of the most fun and most captivating things to do in the city:

The National Zoo in Riyadh is one of the best attractions in the city especially for those traveling with children. Inside they have all sorts of exotic animals across 55 acres including Bengal Tigers, elephants and monkeys. There is also a great play area for children where you can eat lunch if you bring a picnic. In the summer, we recommend going around 15:30 and staying until 18:00 to escape the worst of the heat. Check out the post by Splendid Arabia for more information on what to do and see.

TripAdvisor's top attraction in the capital of Saudi Arabia is the National Museum. A huge collection of all things that define this wonderful culture and its people can be found inside this expansive museum. Everything from Pre-Islamic trade routes to structures and items from the Arab Kingdoms are on display. See fossils and old architecture and discover more than you ever have before about the human race.

The Al-Musmak Fortress or Masmak Citadel, is an exquisite mud and stone structure that you absolutely need to visit when in the capital. Inside its smooth, sandy walls you will find a museum dedicated to Saudi Arabia and Riyadh, where you can learn a little more about how the city came to be. Entrance is free, but make sure you check out admission in advance as they have family days, singles days, female days etc. The reception at Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh is well equipped with all the information and is ready to help you, so do not hesitate to ask them.

If you are looking to get a glimpse of the capital, then why not capture it all in one view, and that of a bird's eye. Head to the iconic Kingdom Tower in the center and make your way up to their 300m high skybridge that lets you walk on top of the city. 300 tons of steel guide you across the bridge with incomparable views as far as the eye can see. At the base of the tower is the Kingdom Center Mall where you can find all the luxury brands necessary to fill your suitcases.

In addition to the treats that can be found at the Al-Mamlaka Mall at Kingdom Tower, there are great malls in the city and plenty of souqs and bazaars. Al-Faisaliah Mall makes up the ground floors of the Al-Faisaliah Tower and is all about redefining luxury. Burberry, Boss, Chanel and all your favorite indulgent brands have stores inside, so if you are looking to treat yourself with some luxury products this trip, be sure to visit. An hour or so in one of the souqs in the area wouldn't go amiss either. When you are at the Masmak Fort, head to the Antique Souq nearby, Al-Thumairi. This is a visitor-friendly souq where most vendors speak English and prices are reasonable. You are sure to find some special goods to bring home with you, so make sure you don't fill up your suitcase with too many luxury items!

Whether it be cute animals, fantastic views or a bit of history you are looking for, you will find it in Riyadh. This capital is diverse and culturally rich, promising to make you fall in love even after just a few days' exploring.