Things To Do
in Medina
This city, second only to Mecca in spiritual significance for Muslims, is renowned for housing the Prophet Muhammad's mosque, Masjid an-Nabawi, which contains his tomb. Established in the 7th century as a sanctuary of peace, it has grown into a major religious destination, attracting millions of pilgrims every year.
Beyond its religious landmarks, the city also boasts a rich tapestry of culture and history, with ancient markets and a serene desert landscape.
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ma'a as-salama" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the Prophet's Mosque, the second holiest site in Islam. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture as you participate in morning prayers.
After lunch, visit the Medina Museum to learn about the rich history of the city. The exhibits provide a deep insight into Medina's significance in Islamic history.
In the evening, stroll around the surrounding gardens of the mosque. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and perhaps engage in some light shopping at local markets.
Begin your day at the Quba Mosque, the first mosque built in Islam. Take your time to appreciate the historic architecture and spiritual significance of the site.
After visiting Quba, explore the nearby Uhud Mountain. Learn about the Battle of Uhud and take in the stunning views of the landscape.
Visit the local shops at the Al Noor Mall for dinner. Experience the mix of modern and traditional Saudi culture as you shop and dine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Religious significance as the second holiest city in Islam.
- Historical and cultural richness with numerous historical sites.
- A large number of pilgrims visit, enhancing the local economy.
- Mild climate compared to other parts of Saudi Arabia, especially during winter months.
- Well-developed infrastructure and services for visitors and residents.
- Hot and dry climate during summer months, which can be uncomfortable.
- Limited entertainment options and nightlife due to strict cultural norms.
- High cost of living for non-residents, especially during pilgrimage seasons.
- Traffic congestion during peak pilgrimage times.
- Social restrictions and limited freedoms compared to more liberal cities.
Best Activities in Medina
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the history and culture of Medina by visiting the Al-Madina Museum, which features artifacts, displays, and interactive exhibits.
Pay a visit to the historic Al-Baqi' Cemetery, an important religious and cultural site in Medina.
Hike or take a scenic drive to Mount Uhud, an iconic natural landmark with historical significance and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Medina with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Medina
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic mosque with its stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings offers beautiful photo opportunities.
The oldest mosque in the world is a picturesque spot for capturing Medina's history and spirituality.
A mountain with historical significance and breathtaking views, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
The lush date farms surrounding Medina are great for capturing the natural beauty of the area.
A modern shopping mall with a stunning architecture, featuring unique photo opportunities.
The peaceful and serene atmosphere around the Prophet's Mosque provides great views for photography.
Food in Medina
Medina Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A dish consisting of slow-cooked lamb or chicken, marinated in a blend of spices and served with fragrant rice. It's a must-try and can be found at local traditional restaurants such as Al-Amariyah Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A staple Saudi dish made of fragrant rice cooked with a mixture of spices and either chicken, lamb, or fish. It can be enjoyed at Albaik, a popular local chain.
Mandi is a flavorful rice and meat dish cooked in a tandoor. One of the best places to savor Mandi is at Firdous Al-Mandi Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Medina better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide variety of street food and local delicacies, from grilled kebabs to fresh juices and traditional desserts. Don't miss the aromatic Shawarma from the street vendors.
Medina is famous for its dates, and the Dates Market is the place to sample and purchase a diverse range of these sweet treats. Try the Ajwa dates, known for their unique taste and health benefits.
This market is a treasure trove of street food delights, from falafel sandwiches to savory pastries. Dive into the local culinary scene and savor the flavors of Medina.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Medina, it is important to dress modestly, especially for women. Wearing loose-fitting, non-revealing clothing helps show respect for the local cultural norms.
Medina is a holy city for Muslims, and it is crucial to show respect when visiting religious sites such as the Prophet's Mosque. Dress appropriately and maintain a respectful demeanor while visiting these sites.
When interacting with locals, it is polite to use common Islamic greetings such as 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you). Additionally, using the right hand for greetings and avoiding physical contact with the opposite gender is considered respectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Medina with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Medina
Ensure a smooth experience
In Medina, tipping is generally not expected or required, but it is appreciated for exceptional service, especially in high-end establishments such as hotels and restaurants. It is common to leave a small amount of cash or round up the bill as a token of appreciation.
In Medina, cash is widely used for transactions, although major credit cards are also accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. It is advisable to carry sufficient local currency for smaller purchases and in more traditional establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Medina.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Medina as the weather is mild and pleasant. The city is in full bloom with colorful flowers and green landscapes. It is also the time of the annual Spring Festival, featuring cultural events, food, and entertainment.
Fall is another ideal time to visit Medina, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. The annual Date Festival takes place during this time, offering visitors a chance to taste a wide variety of dates and experience local traditions.
Winter in Medina brings cooler temperatures but still remains relatively mild compared to many other regions. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city's attractions without the extreme heat of summer.
Summer in Medina is very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). It is the low season for tourism due to the extreme heat, but indoor attractions and air-conditioned facilities are still accessible for those who can tolerate the high temperatures.
Medina at Night
Hiking in Medina
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A significant historical site and a popular hiking destination, Jabal Uhud offers scenic views and a chance to explore the natural landscape surrounding Medina.
A beautiful valley with hiking trails that allow visitors to experience the serene environment and diverse flora and fauna.
Located a short distance from Medina, this mountain offers hiking opportunities with panoramic views of the surrounding region.
A picturesque wadi that features hiking paths alongside its lush vegetation and clear waters, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
This mountain range near Medina offers various hiking trails and scenic spots to explore, suitable for hikers of all levels.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Medina through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Medina by plane.
The primary airport serving Medina, Saudi Arabia, offering both domestic and international flights.
Located in Jeddah, approximately 400 km from Medina, it is one of the largest airports in Saudi Arabia, serving numerous international flights.
Situated in Dammam, about 800 km from Medina, it is one of the largest airports in the world and serves a mix of domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 1000 km from Medina, Abha International Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Tabuk, about 900 km from Medina, it offers domestic services and some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, consisting of citizens who are native to Saudi Arabia.
Includes a diverse population of foreign workers from various countries, contributing to the labor market.
A group of nomadic Arab peoples traditionally living in desert regions.
A significant group, especially during the Hajj season, made up of Muslims from around the world visiting Medina.
Established families with historical ties to the region, often having lived in Medina for generations.
The Soul of Medina
Discover the essence of Medina through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Medina, with many local teams and a passionate fan base.
Basketball enjoys considerable popularity among the youth, with several courts available in schools and parks.
Cricket has a significant following, especially among expatriates, with local matches often organized.
Volleyball is played recreationally in schools and community centers, promoting teamwork and fitness.
Athletics, including running and track events, is encouraged through local clubs and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Medina.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric, many local eateries offer vegetarian dishes such as falafel, hummus, and vegetarian versions of traditional rice dishes.
Vegan options may be limited, but some places offer falafel wraps, mixed vegetable platters, and fresh fruit juices.
Look for grilled meat and seafood options, fresh salads, and rice-based dishes to accommodate a gluten-free diet.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Medina with these cultural adventures.
