Al-Balad (Old Town)

Jeddah’s top sight is al-Balad, or the old town. The city wall has long since been torn down, but the old gates still mark where it once stood. Within you’ll find a warren of ancient buildings and traditional souqs (markets), and the teetering, multistory coral houses that Jeddah is famous for. Unfortunately, coral is not a very durable building material, and most of the buildings are in disrepair.

• Souq al-Alawi. At the heart of the old city, coral houses line both sides of this busy market street. A photography permit is theoretically necessary (inquire at the office behind Naseef house), but in practice nobody seems to bat an eyelid as long as you don’t stick your camera in people’s faces without permission.  edit
• Naseef House. 5-9 PM (closed Fri?). The former house of one of Jeddah’s main trading families is now being renovated as a museum of sorts. Great views from the top floors when it’s open. SR20.  edit

Other

The Jeddah Corniche offers spectacular views of the Red Sea. Check out the main shopping street on Tahliya for interesting wares, and if you’re looking for good quality gold, try the Gold Souq where you can bargain for 18k and 24k gold by weight. The King Fahd Fountain is not only the biggest fountain in Jeddah, but also the world!