Mecca, Saudi Arabia-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

Morning

  • Arrive at King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah, the closest airport to Mecca
  • Take a taxi or Uber to your hotel in Mecca (approximately 45 minutes)
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up

Afternoon

  • Visit the Grand Mosque (Al-Masjid al-Haram), the holiest mosque in Islam
  • Perform Umrah, a smaller pilgrimage that can be performed at any time of the year
  • Explore the surrounding area, including the Abraj Al-Bait Towers and the King Abdulaziz Gate

Evening

  • Have dinner at Al-Khalifa, a popular restaurant serving Middle Eastern cuisine
  • Take a stroll around the mosque and enjoy the evening atmosphere

Accommodation

  • Stay at the Mövenpick Hotel & Residences Hajar Tower Mecca, a 5-star hotel with stunning views of the Grand Mosque

Transportation

  • Taxi: available outside the airport and in Mecca city
  • Uber: available in Mecca city

Tips

  • Respect local customs and dress modestly
  • Remove your shoes before entering mosques
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water

Day 2: Exploring Mecca

Morning

  • Visit the Cave of Hira, a mountain cave where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) received his first revelation
  • Take a short hike to the top of Mount Noor, offering panoramic views of Mecca

Afternoon

  • Explore the Mecca Museum, which showcases the history and culture of Mecca
  • Visit the Well of Zamzam, a sacred well believed to have been revealed to Hagar, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Al-Baik, a popular restaurant serving traditional Saudi dishes
  • Take a stroll around the city and explore the local souks (markets)

Day 3: Historical Landmarks

Morning

  • Visit the Jabal Thawr, a mountain where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) took refuge during his migration to Medina
  • Explore the Mina, a valley where pilgrims perform part of the Hajj rituals

Afternoon

  • Visit the Jamarat Bridge, a pedestrian bridge where pilgrims symbolically stone the devil during Hajj
  • Stop by the Mecca Clock Tower Hotel, one of the tallest clock towers in the world

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Khorafi Restaurant, a popular eatery serving Middle Eastern cuisine
  • Take a relaxing walk around the city and enjoy the evening atmosphere

Day 4: Departure

Morning

  • Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring local markets
  • Check-out of your hotel and head to King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) for your departure flight

Transportation

  • Taxi: available outside the airport and in Mecca city
  • Uber: available in Mecca city

Things to Know

  • Mecca is a sacred city, and only Muslims are allowed to enter
  • Respect local customs and traditions at all times
  • Stay informed about the latest travel requirements and restrictions before planning your trip

Other Tips

  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases to communicate with locals
  • Be prepared for large crowds and long lines during peak seasons
  • Don’t forget to try some local dates and Zamzam water!