Just opposite the Cathedral you can find the "Hospederia", a 16th century monastery founded by the Benedictines. It is possible to stay at the monastery, or simply enjoy the beautiful architecture, and if you happen to be visiting between Tuesday and Thursday, be sure to join one of the guided tours.

A night in the desert reveals a landscape transformed. The intense silence and profound darkness that follow sunset give way to a celestial display, with the Milky Way arching vividly across the sky. This experience often begins with the thrill of dune bashing at dusk, followed by the tranquillity of a traditional camp. Here, the evening is spent around a fire, enjoying aromatic coffee and sweet dates, perhaps accompanied by the gentle bubbling of a shisha pipe. It is a stark, beautiful contrast to the daytime heat and a chance to comprehend the vast, empty spaces that have shaped Bedouin culture for millennia.

Ushaiqer Heritage Village, located approximately 200 kilometres northwest of Riyadh, offers a journey into the architectural and cultural history of the Najd region. This labyrinthine settlement of ochre-coloured mud-brick houses, some dating back centuries, was once a vital stop for pilgrims. Its narrow, shaded alleys wind between traditional dwellings, many featuring distinctive triangular windows and carved wooden doors. While some buildings have been restored, others stand in a state of arrested decay, creating an atmospheric exploration of a bygone era. The site also includes a small museum displaying local artefacts, providing context to the evocative surroundings.

The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Buddy Holly have all appeared here during their career. The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic sells over 250,000 tickets annually and if there is a concert on while you are visiting you should take the chance and go.