Things to Do in Palestine

About Palestine

Palestine unfolds like a living tapestry where ancient stones whisper stories of civilizations past and present. In the narrow alleys of Jerusalem's Old City, the aroma of za'atar mingles with frankincense while church bells echo alongside the call to prayer. Bethlehem's rolling hills cradle olive groves that have weathered millennia, their silver-green leaves catching Mediterranean light that has illuminated prophets and poets alike. Here, hospitality isn't just tradition—it's an art form, where strangers become family over steaming cups of sage tea and plates of warm kunafa. From the bustling souks of Hebron to the serene valleys of the West Bank, Palestine invites you to witness resilience transformed into beauty, where every meal shared and every story told becomes a bridge between cultures. This is a land where the sacred and everyday intertwine, where modern life flourishes among Byzantine mosaics and Crusader stones, creating an experience that touches both heart and soul.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use shared taxis (servis) between cities—they're affordable and authentic. Download the Moovit app for Palestinian public transport routes. Rent cars through local agencies in Ramallah or Bethlehem, but avoid driving on Fridays and during Israeli holidays when checkpoints have longer delays.

Money: Bring USD cash and Israeli Shekels (ILS)—most places accept both. ATMs are available in major cities but can be unreliable. Small vendors prefer cash, while hotels and restaurants often accept credit cards. Always carry small denominations for taxis and street food.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites—cover shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering mosques. During Ramadan, avoid eating publicly during daylight hours. Learn basic Arabic greetings; locals deeply appreciate the effort and will respond with extraordinary warmth.

Food Safety: Street food is generally safe—look for busy stalls with high turnover. Try mansaf, musakhan, and fresh falafel from local vendors. Drink bottled water in rural areas. Avoid raw vegetables at budget restaurants, but don't miss the incredible fresh produce at local markets.

When to Visit

Spring (March-May) offers Palestine at its most enchanting, with temperatures ranging 15-25°C and wildflowers carpeting the hills. Rainfall drops significantly after March, making hiking ideal. This is peak season with prices 30-40% higher, but the Easter celebrations in April create magical atmosphere in Bethlehem and Jerusalem. Summer (June-August) brings intense heat (25-35°C) and virtually no rain, perfect for early morning explorations but requiring afternoon shade breaks. Prices drop 20% and crowds thin, though August sees some European tourism. Fall (September-November) provides excellent weather (18-28°C) with occasional showers starting in October. Olive harvest season creates authentic cultural experiences, while Eid celebrations vary yearly. Winter (December-February) is mild but wet (8-18°C, 400-600mm rainfall), with prices at their lowest—40% below peak. Christmas in Bethlehem is spectacular but extremely crowded. Ramadan dates shift annually, affecting restaurant hours and creating unique cultural immersion opportunities. Digital nomads prefer March-May and September-November for reliable weather and moderate prices, while budget travelers find January-February ideal despite weather limitations.