Mecca Saudi Arabia 6 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Mecca
- Morning: Arrive at King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) and take a taxi or Uber to your hotel. Check-in to your hotel and freshen up.
- Afternoon: Visit the Holy Mosque of Mecca, Al-Masjid al-Haram, for Umrah (minor pilgrimage). Perform Tawaf (circling around the Kaaba) and Sayee (running between Safa and Marwah).
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Saudi Arabian dinner at Al-Baik Restaurant, located near the Holy Mosque.
- Accommodation: Stay at a hotel with easy access to the Holy Mosque, such as the Movenpick Hotel or the InterContinental Dar Al Tawhid.
Day 2: Explore Mecca
- Morning: Visit Jabal al-Noor (Mountain of Light), where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) received his first revelation.
- Afternoon: Explore the Cave of Hira, a mountain cave where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to meditate.
- Evening: Enjoy shopping at the Mecca Mall or the Aziziyah Market for souvenirs and local products.
Day 3: Spiritual Experiences
- Morning: Attend the Fajr prayer at the Holy Mosque, followed by a guided tour of the mosque’s history and significance.
- Afternoon: Visit the Well of Zamzam, a sacred well that has been in use since ancient times. Drink from the well and take some water as a souvenir.
- Evening: Enjoy a spiritual lecture or Q&A session with a local scholar at your hotel or a nearby mosque.
Day 4: Historical Landmarks
- Morning: Visit the Mina Museum, which showcases the history of Mecca and Islam.
- Afternoon: Explore the Jamarat Bridge, where pilgrims perform the symbolic stoning of the devil during Hajj (major pilgrimage).
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Saudi Arabian coffee at a local café.
Day 5: Day Trip to Taif
- Morning: Take a day trip to Taif, a nearby city known for its scenic beauty and historical significance.
- Afternoon: Visit the Taif Museum, which showcases the history of the region.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant in Taif.
Day 6: Departure
- Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
- Afternoon: Check-out from your hotel and head to King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) for your departure flight.
Things to Know
- Mecca is a sacred city, and visitors are expected to dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.
- Only Muslims are allowed to enter the Holy City of Mecca, so ensure you have the necessary documentation before planning your trip.
- The weather in Mecca can be hot during the summer months, so stay hydrated and bring sunscreen.
Transportation
- Taxis and Ubers are widely available in Mecca, but you can also use public transportation or walk to many attractions.
- Consider hiring a private driver or guide for the duration of your trip to make transportation easier.
Tips
- Respect local customs and traditions at all times.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking during your trip.
- Learn some basic Arabic phrases, such as “As-salamu alaykum” (hello) and “Shukraan” (thank you), to show respect for the local culture.
Where to Eat
- Al-Baik Restaurant: traditional Saudi Arabian cuisine
- Kudu Restaurant: international buffet with a wide range of options
- Local cafes: try traditional Saudi Arabian coffee and dates
Where to Stay
- Movenpick Hotel: luxurious hotel with easy access to the Holy Mosque
- InterContinental Dar Al Tawhid: modern hotel with comfortable rooms and amenities
- Budget-friendly options: consider staying at a local guesthouse or hostel for a more affordable option.