From Mecca to Medina — Train, Bus and Practical Tips

Mecca medina — After completing the Umrah rites in Mecca, visiting Medina — the city of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) — is a strongly recommended traditional step. The distance between the two cities is approximately 400 km. Here is how to travel it.

Haramain High Speed Railway (HHR) — Recommended option ✅

The high-speed train is by far the best option for this journey:

• Duration: approximately 2h (no stop in Jeddah) or 2h30 via Jeddah
• Fare: 100 to 250 SAR (~25-65 EUR) depending on class and how far in advance you book
• Departure: Mecca station (Al-Rusayfah) — accessible by Mashaer bus or Uber from the Haram
• Arrival: Medina station (Al-Haramain) — 5 km from Masjid An-Nabawi

⚠️ Important: book your outbound AND return tickets as soon as you arrive in Saudi Arabia. Trains fill up quickly during peak season.

SAPTCO Bus

Direct Mecca ↔ Medina buses exist, but the journey takes 4 to 5 hours. An economical solution (~30-50 SAR) but uncomfortable over such a long distance. Departure from Al-Aziziyah bus station.

Taxi or Ride-hailing

A private taxi Mecca → Medina is possible but expensive (400-600 SAR). Only worth considering in a group of 4+ to split the cost.

Typical 5-day transit itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival Jeddah → Mecca (train, 30 min)
2. Days 2-3: Umrah + Haram + visits in Mecca
3. Day 4: Mecca → Medina (train, 2h)
4. Day 5: Masjid Nabawi, Rawdah, Masjid Quba → Medina → Jeddah (flight or train)

For getting around Mecca itself, see Getting Around Mecca. For hotels, see Hotels in Mecca and Hotels in Medina.