Saudi Arabia doesn’t scream budget travel – it’s quickly become renowned for having some of the most luxurious resorts in the world – and Medina (known locally as Madinah) is no exception. But alongside the big five-star hotels and fine-dining restaurants are Airbnbs, budget stays and street vendors offering a tasty (and cheap) slice of the city.
From travelling in the hotter months to securing group discounts on tours (and enjoying all of the free sights on offer), this is how you can visit Medina without breaking your budget.
Opt for budget airlines
Depending on where you’re coming from, there are plenty of cheap flights on budget airlines including Saudia, Wizz Air and Pegasus (often carriers flying from Europe offer split-travel on more than one airline). If you’re travelling to Medina from within KSA, there are plenty of train options although the cheapest method is via private car (if you have one).
Summer brings high temperatures but low prices
As one of the holiest cities in Islam, Medina gets particularly busy around Ramadan (which falls between February 28th and March 30th in 2025), and during Hajj, when people making the pilgrimage to Makkah often come to visit Medina while they are nearby. The country is much cooler during the months of January and February, but unfortunately prices reflect this, with better deals available on hotels during the summer months when temperatures soar. Flights vary, with some cheap options to be found throughout the year if you book early enough.
There are ways to save on accommodation
Look for deals on hotels during the summer months, when accommodation tends to be cheaper. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to visit during cooler months or have specific dates in mind, look for deals that combine flights and hotels to save some cash, or look on budget/last-minute sites for options. If you’re travelling in a group, many hotels offer quadruple rooms – meaning you can split the cost with your travel companions.
There is also plenty of mid-range and budget accommodation, particularly if you don’t mind staying slightly further out from the city centre (and away from major sites like the Prophet’s Mosque). Rental accommodation sites like Airbnb also offer serviced apartments and homes.
Embrace the souqs
With a plethora of malls and markets to shop in, it’s easy to overspend in Medina (especially if you’re looking to buy souvenirs to take home). But if you choose your shopping destinations carefully, there are plenty of bargains to be had. You’ll find cheaper prices at Quba Market than Suwaiqah souq, for example, and many souq prices can be haggled down (provided the haggling is done respectfully). While busting markets are more fun to experience, you may get better deals at quieter times of day.
Hop on the air-conditioned bus
If you’re travelling with a group, shared vehicles might be the most cost-effective way to travel around the city (apps like Uber or Careem usually come at a lower price than regular taxis). However, the city is well covered by bus links from the Saudi Public Transport Company’s (SAPTCO) reasonably priced network. If you’re looking to tour the city, a hop-on-hop-off bus is the best way to see the sights on a budget.
For transport out of Medina to Makkah, trains are fast but prices can vary (it’s around £50-60 for a one-way ticket, depending on when you travel).
Take a walking tour through the city
Take a stroll through the centre of town and walk the 3km path taken by Prophet Muhammad from Quba Mosque to the Prophet's Mosque, taking in the market stalls and tourist buzz as you do. For a more challenging hike, head to Mount Uhud, in the north of the city (you can get there via bus, or pay to go on a tour).
As well as numerous free mosques to visit, the revered cemetery Jannatul Baqi, the resting place of Prophet Muhammad’s family, is free to visit although women can only see the cemetery from the outside.
Street food is delicious without breaking the bank
There are plenty of places to eat around the centre of Medina – some cheaper than others. For budget-friendly food and a variety of options from local bites and juices to grilled meats and burgers, try the food court on the third floor of the Al Safwah Towers. There are also plenty of street food vendors in Quba Market and most small souqs where you can sample small local dishes or order a full meal – and the prices beat most restaurants. You’ll also find the usual fast-food joints for low-cost food; Saudi chain AlBaik is a local favourite, but expect queues.
How to save money on attractions
The good news is that many of the most popular sites in Medina are absolutely free to visit, and you can take in the sights such as the Quba Mosque and Seven Mosques without paying a fee. However, guided tours of the sites do cost money. If you want the expertise of a guide without shelling out a huge amount, look for group tours to save money, or for bus tours rather than the more expensive car tours. If you are looking for a small group or driver, there are better deals to be found in the summer.
