7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Makkah and Madina, Saudi Arabia
Tuesday, January 16: Arrival in Makkah
Begin your journey in Makkah by visiting the iconic Masjid al-Haram, the largest mosque in the world. Start your day with Fajr prayer and then perform Umrah. In the afternoon, explore the Abraj Al Bait Towers, where you can find a variety of shops and restaurants. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Middle Eastern dinner at a local restaurant.
Masjid al-Haram: Free, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
Abraj Al Bait Towers: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Local Restaurant: Estimated Cost: $20-30 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Al Baik restaurant is a popular breakfast spot known for its delicious fried chicken and crispy fries. The average cost for a meal is about SAR 20 per person.
For lunch, head to Al Tazaj to enjoy their tender and juicy grilled chicken with a side of rice and salad. The average cost for a meal is about SAR 30 per person.
End your day with a flavorful dinner at the Almarai Restaurant, specializing in traditional Saudi Arabian cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about SAR 50 per person.
Wednesday, January 17: Makkah
In the morning, participate in the spiritual journey of Hajj by performing Tawaf around the Kaaba. Afternoon can be spent visiting the Zamzam Well and learning about its significance. In the evening, take a relaxing walk at the beautiful Al-Rasaifah District.
Tawaf: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Zamzam Well: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Al-Rasaifah District: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday, January 18: Makkah to Madina
After breakfast, bid farewell to Makkah and embark on a journey to Madina. Arrive in Madina and visit Masjid an-Nabawi, the second holiest mosque in Islam. Spend the afternoon exploring the Quba Mosque and the Qiblatain Mosque. In the evening, take a peaceful walk at Uhud Mountain.
Masjid an-Nabawi: Free, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
Quba Mosque: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Qiblatain Mosque: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Uhud Mountain: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Makkah is Al Baik Restaurant, known for its delicious fried chicken. The average cost for a meal is about 20 SAR per person.
For lunch, head to Al Tazaj Restaurant, known for its flavorful roasted chicken. The average cost for a meal is about 25 SAR per person.
End your day with dinner at Al Baik Restaurant, where you can enjoy their famous broasted chicken. The average cost for a meal is about 30 SAR per person.
Friday, January 19: Madina
Start your day by attending Jummah prayers at Masjid an-Nabawi. Afterward, visit the Quba Mosque and explore the nearby Date Market. In the afternoon, discover the Islamic heritage at the Madinah Islamic University Museum. In the evening, take a tranquil boat ride on Madina Lake.
Jummah Prayers: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Quba Mosque: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Date Market: Varies, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Madinah Islamic University Museum: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Madina Lake Boat Ride: Estimated Cost: $10-20 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Saturday, January 20: Madina
Begin the day by visiting the historic Quba Mosque for prayers. Spend the morning exploring the Quba Oasis Park and enjoy a picnic with your family. In the afternoon, visit the Mount Uhud and the Uhud Battle Field Museum to learn about the Islamic history associated with it. End your day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.
Quba Mosque: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Quba Oasis Park: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Mount Uhud and Uhud Battle Field Museum: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Local Restaurant: Estimated Cost: $20-30 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday, January 21: Madina
Explore the peaceful atmosphere of Masjid Qiblatayn, where the Qibla (direction of prayer) changed from Jerusalem to Makkah. Visit the Qaisariyah Market for a diverse shopping experience and enjoy a traditional Arabic lunch. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll at the King Fahd Garden. In the evening, attend a religious lecture at the Madina Knowledge Economic City.
Masjid Qiblatayn: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Qaisariyah Market: Varies, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
King Fahd Garden: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Madina Knowledge Economic City Lecture: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Al Baik Restaurant, known for its crispy fried chicken and flavorful Arabian rice. Average cost for a meal is about 20 SAR per person.
For lunch, head to Al Tazaj restaurant and enjoy their famous grilled chicken with Arabic spices. Average cost for a meal is about 30 SAR per person.
In the evening, dine at Al Shabab Restaurant and savor their delectable lamb mandi, a traditional Saudi Arabian dish. Average cost for a meal is about 40 SAR per person.
Monday, January 22: Departure
On your last day, spend some time at Masjid an-Nabawi for prayers and reflection. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant before preparing for your departure. Take a moment to appreciate the journey and the unforgettable memories created.
Masjid an-Nabawi: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Local Restaurant: Estimated Cost: $15-25 per person, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, consider visiting the Old Bazaar in Madina, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and find exquisite handicrafts. Another hidden gem is the Al-Qiblatain Souq, a traditional market offering traditional clothing, spices, and souvenirs. Locals also recommend taking a day trip to the beautiful city of Taif, located about 180 km from Makkah, to enjoy its pleasant weather, stunning mountain views, and aromatic rose gardens.
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