Medina, Saudi Arabia-5-day-itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Medina, Saudi Arabia

Things to Know:

  • Visa Requirements: Ensure you have the necessary visa to enter Saudi Arabia. Tourist visas are now available for many nationalities.

  • Dress Code: Modest attire is mandatory in Medina. Women should cover their hair and wear loose-fitting clothing that covers their arms and legs. Men should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts.

  • Prayer Times: Medina is a holy city with five daily prayers. Be mindful of prayer times as many shops and businesses may close during these periods.

  • Ramadan: If you’re traveling during Ramadan, be aware that eating, drinking, and smoking in public are prohibited during daylight hours.

Transportation:

  • Taxis: Readily available and relatively inexpensive. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
  • Uber/Careem: Ride-hailing apps are popular and offer a convenient way to get around.
  • Bus: Limited bus routes operate within Medina.

Accommodation:

  • Hilton Madinah: Luxury hotel near the Prophet’s Mosque.
  • Mövenpick Hotel Hajar Tower: Modern hotel with panoramic views of the city.
  • Shaza Al Madina: Stylish hotel offering comfortable rooms and excellent service.

Day 1: Arrival & The Prophet’s Mosque

  • Arrive at Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED).
  • Check into your chosen accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Prophet’s Mosque, the second holiest site in Islam. Experience the serenity of the mosque and pay respects at the tomb of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Day 2: Historical Medina & Shopping

  • Morning: Explore the historic Old City, with its labyrinthine alleyways and traditional houses. Visit the Uhud Mountain, where a pivotal battle took place in Islamic history.
  • Afternoon: Indulge in some retail therapy at Al-Manakha Market. Find souvenirs, dates, perfumes, and local handicrafts.

Day 3: The Quba Mosque & Jannat al-Baqi’ Cemetery

  • Morning: Visit the Quba Mosque, the first mosque built by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
  • Afternoon: Pay respects at Jannat al-Baqi’ Cemetery, the final resting place of many companions of the Prophet.

Day 4: Museum & Relaxation

  • Morning: Learn about Medina’s rich history at the Madinah Museum. Explore exhibits showcasing Islamic art, artifacts, and traditional life.
  • Afternoon: Relax in a traditional coffee shop and savor Arabian coffee and dates. Enjoy the ambiance and people-watching.

Day 5: Departure

  • Depending on your flight schedule, you can revisit any of your favorite spots or explore new areas before heading to the airport for departure.

Where to Eat:

  • Ajyad Restaurant: Popular spot serving traditional Saudi cuisine.
  • Albaik: Fast food chain known for its delicious fried chicken.
  • Shawarma Al-Sharq: Offers mouthwatering shawarma wraps and sandwiches.
  • Mataam Al-Madina: Fine dining restaurant specializing in international cuisine.

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic Arabic phrases, as it will be appreciated by locals.
  • Drink plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Carry small denominations of Saudi Riyals for everyday expenses.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Seven Mosques: Visit seven historical mosques in Medina, each with its own unique significance.
  • Mount Uhud Battlefield: Explore the site where a pivotal battle took place in early Islamic history.
  • The Rawdah: A sacred area within the Prophet’s Mosque where visitors can pray and seek blessings.

Enjoy your spiritual journey to Medina!