Things to do in Medina

Why go to Medina

• Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (Prophet's Mosque)

  One of the largest mosques in the world and Islam's second holiest site, with stunning Ottoman and modern architecture open to Muslim visitors around the clock.

• Quba Mosque

  The first mosque ever built in Islamic history, just minutes from the city center and deeply revered by pilgrims worldwide.

• Al-Baqi Cemetery

  An ancient burial ground adjacent to the Prophet's Mosque where many of Islam's earliest companions rest, offering profound historical reflection.

• Uhud Mountain & Battlefield

  The site of the famous Battle of Uhud, where you can walk the historic terrain and visit the graves of martyrs including Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib.

• Al-Hijaz Railway Museum

  A fascinating relic of the Ottoman-era Hejaz Railway featuring original steam locomotives and carriages that once connected Medina to Damascus.

Good to know in Medina

• Transit: Medina's Haramain High-Speed Railway connects to Jeddah and Mecca, book tickets in advance on the Saudi Railway app; city buses and taxis are cheap at $1-3 per ride.
• Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Saudi Arabia, rounding up or leaving 10% at restaurants is common and generous.
• Tap Water: Do not drink tap water in Medina; bottled water is very affordable at $0.30-0.50 per 1.5L from convenience stores, and Zamzam water is freely distributed inside the mosque.
• Free Entry: The Prophet's Mosque and all major mosques in Medina are free to enter for Muslims at any time; non-Muslims are not permitted inside the holy sites.

Trip essentials