Book flights to Medina (MED)

Things to do in Medina

The second holiest site in Islam, Medina is home to renowned mosques and plenty of spiritual wonders. Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, the Prophet’s Mosque, is located at the heart of the city. Its towering green domes and spectacular architecture can be admired from the outside.

Nearby stands the Quba Mosque, with its gleaming white exterior that radiates purity and serenity, it’s the first mosque in Islamic history. From here, visit the Al-Baqi Cemetery, the resting place of the Prophet’s family members and other significant Islamic figures.  Another must-see is the Qiblatain Mosque, recognised for its distinctive story about shifting the qibla (direction of prayer) to Mecca.

Activities in Medina

The Dar Al Madina Museum tells the story of Islam in Medina. It displays detailed models, artefacts, and fascinating pieces that unveil the city’s rich history. Not far away, the Al Madina Museum in the old Hejaz Railway Station, draws you back to the time of steam engines. Its original tracks and carriages recall Saudi Arabia’s heritage as a crossroad of cultures.

To relish Medina’s bustling community, make your way to Quba Square. Soak up the energy of traditional shops or cafés as you sip tea and people-watch. After downing a hot drink, go for a stroll along Quba Walkway Park.

For a breathtaking view, head to Uhud Mountain and Mount Uhud Park, a site revered for its historical importance in the Battle of Uhud. It’s a picturesque setting that’s ideal for small hikes, picnics and simply reflecting on your journey.

Food in Medina

Savour the city’s quintessential dish, kabsa, a fragrant rice pilaf topped with tender chicken or camel meat. A special treat in the region, camel meat is a delicacy with texture and flavour that evokes Medina’s desert heritage. Kabsa is infused with spices like cardamom, cloves and cinnamon. As you take your first bite, you can smell the aroma of spice routes that passed through Medina, leaving their mark on this tasty dish.

Then there’s mutabbaq, a street food favourite that can be found all across the city. This delectable flatbread is stuffed with spiced minced meat, vegetables, or sometimes even sweet treats. Watching vendors expertly prepare mutabbaq, flipping it with swift hands, is an absolute delight.

Shopping in Medina

Begin your retail adventure at Taiba Market, where you can discover crafts, jewellery, and souvenirs that capture Medina’s essence. Browse colourful handwoven rugs, intricate prayer beads, and calligraphy artwork that make beautiful keepsakes.

Take a step back in time as you wander through Souk Al-Madina, where vendors cheerfully announce what they have on offer. You’ll find everything from oud and sandalwood to handmade pottery. For a truly classical experience, go to the Old Bazaar, featuring narrow lanes filled with interesting stalls. The highlight? The famed Madinah dates – sweet, luscious, and available in varieties that are all bespoke to the region.