Top Things to Do in Medina

About the City

Exploring Medina: The Oasis of Culture and Heritage Nestled under the scorching sun of Saudi Arabia, Medina sparkles as a city steeped in cultural significance and spiritual grandeur. It's a place where historical tales weave through the narrow alleyways like the intricate patterns on a Bedouin's carpet, telling stories of faith and devotion. Picture this: a labyrinth of bustling markets, brimming with the scent of incense and the clamor of daily commerce, attendants in long robes haggling with the vigor of a desert wind. Medina is home to the Prophet's Mosque, an architectural marvel; its minarets piercing the sky, a sanctuary offering solace to millions. Yet, this city isn't all ancient glory; dare to peek around the corner, and you'll find modern amenities, with shopping malls and manicured parks dotting the landscape like mirages in the desert. However, it's not without its quirks. The summer heat can be unforgiving, swathing the city in an almost tangible blanket of warmth. And for those unaccustomed to the strict adherence to cultural norms, there may be moments of cultural shock. In Medina, you'll find warmth not just in the weather but in the people too, their hospitality like the sweet, refreshing taste of dates that are known to have grown here for centuries. It's a city of contrasts, a city that tells the story of a past intertwined with the threads of the present, a place where every grain of sand has a history to whisper.

Things to Do in Medina

Relishing Al Harees

Food & Drink

Got a craving for comfort food? Al Harees is just what you need! This hearty wheat and meat wonder simmers for hours until it reaches a smooth, porridge-like consistency. Perfect for when you wanna fe...

Mountain Biking Thrills

Outdoors

Why walk when you can ride? Mountain biking in Medina mixes ancient wonders with a dash of eco-friendly pedal power. Get ready to tackle trails and drink in vistas that'll make your Insta-... err, mak...

Cycling the Green Route

The Unexpected

Grab a bike and get pedaling on Medina's green route! Imagine cruising through the city in style, with the wind in your hair and the cityscape giving you a quiet nod. It's eco-friendly and a heck of a...

Treasure Hunt at the Antique Markets

The Unexpected

Get ready to channel your inner Indiana Jones and embark on a treasure hunt at Medina's antique markets! You'll be amazed at the rare finds and the history each item carries. Make sure to bring your b...

History Whispers at Al-Manakhah

The Unexpected

Take a walk through Al-Manakhah, and you'll feel like you've stepped into a time capsule. This historic area near the Prophet’s Mosque is laden with old-world charm and a vibrant atmosphere where the ...

Caffeine Crawl in Medina

The Unexpected

Ready for a buzz? No, not the online kind – we're talking a caffeine crawl! Jump from coffee shop to coffee shop, tasting the diverse blends that Medina's coffee culture has to offer. Who knew coffee ...

Soaking in the Sunset at Masjid Nabawi

Outdoors

Get ready to be dazzled by nature's light show! There's nothing quite like watching the sunset behind the majestic Masjid Nabawi. It's a free daily spectacle that paints the sky with all shades of awe...

Bird-Watching at Al-Hudaybiyyah Park

Outdoors

Who knew Medina was a hotspot for bird-watching? Flap on over to Al-Hudaybiyyah Park and play 'I spy' with the feathery locals. Bring binoculars, a bird guide, and a heap of patience. If you're lucky,...

Reveling in River Trekking

Outdoors

Craving an aqueous adventure? Dip those toes and more into a unique river trekking excursion in Medina! Splash and dash through streams and channels – just be sure to mind your step, 'cause it's slipp...

Desert Dune Bashing

Outdoors

Got a need for speed and sandy scenery? Buckle up for some desert dune bashing around Medina! Steer a 4x4 across the dunes for an adrenaline-filled tour de force. Don't forget your shades; it's gonna ...

Tucking into Ta'amiya

Food & Drink

Hop on the Ta'amiya train, Medina's take on falafel! It's crispy, it's fluffy, it's everything you want in a deep-fried ball of chickpea goodness. Sold all over, you'll find this snack the perfect com...

Unearthing the Uhud Mystique

Sights

Ready for a bout of time travel? March over to the Mount Uhud and get a real feel of the past! This isn't your run-of-the-mill hill; it's a symbol of resilience from the time of the Prophet. Trek arou...

Dazzle at Dar al-Madinah Museum

Sights

Get your culture fix with a sprinkle of dazzle at Dar al-Madinah Museum! It's not just artifacts and exhibits; it's a whirlwind tour of Medina's heart and soul. Learn a thing or two and get lost in th...

Bargaining in the Bazaar

Sights

Put your haggling hat on and dive into the bustling hive of Medina's markets! Navigate through a maze of stalls, score some cool souvenirs, and practice your Arabic with the friendly vendors. It's sho...

Tranquil Moments at Al-Baqi'

Sights

Find your inner peace at Jannat al-Baqi', the ancient cemetery where countless companions and family members of the Prophet are laid to rest. Just being there is a lesson in history, humility, and spi...

Witnessing the Qaswa Camel's Legacy

Sights

Embark on an adventure to explore the relics of Qaswa, the Prophet's loyal camel. Feel the sands of time beneath your feet and marvel at the legacy that shaped history. It's a silent storyteller of ag...

Feasting on Shawarma

Food & Drink

Wrap your hands around a mighty shawarma, a delightful roll of tender grilled meat, veggies, and sauce! Strolling through Medina, you can't resist that tantalizing aroma drawing you to the nearest sha...

Guzzling down Gahwa

Food & Drink

Get ready to sip on some Gahwa, AKA traditional Saudi coffee! It's not your average joe; it's a full-on aromatic experience with hints of cardamom and served with dates. It's how locals kickstart thei...

Noshing on Najd Chicken

Food & Drink

Dive-fork-first into a plate of Najd Chicken, a sublime dish where the chicken is cooked to perfection with a mix of spices that'll have your tastebuds dancing. It's a mainstay at Medina feasts, so ge...

Botanical Bliss

The Unexpected

Nothing screams vacation like taking time to stop and smell the roses – or, in this case, the blooming desert flora! Get your green thumbs ready for a peaceful day at Medina's botanical gardens. It's ...