Palestine 3 Day Itinerary

July 19, 2024

Day 1: Ramallah and Bethlehem

Start your day with breakfast at a local café in Ramallah, the de facto capital of Palestine. Try some traditional Palestinian dishes like falafel, hummus, or shawarma.
Visit the Arafat Museum, which showcases the life and legacy of Yasser Arafat, the former President of Palestine.

Take a short drive to Bethlehem (approximately 30 minutes), one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Explore the Church of the Nativity, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Be prepared for crowds and long lines, especially during peak season.

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Bethlehem, trying some traditional Palestinian cuisine like maqluba (a rice dish with meat or vegetables) or musakhan (chicken with onions and sumac).
Take a stroll through the historic old town of Bethlehem, exploring its narrow streets and alleys.

Things to Know

Ramallah is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene. Be sure to check out some of the local art galleries, theaters, or music venues.
Bethlehem is a popular tourist destination, so be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.

From Jerusalem, take bus 21 from the Damascus Gate to Ramallah (approximately 30 minutes, ₪5-10).
To get to Bethlehem from Ramallah, take a taxi or bus (approximately 30 minutes, ₪20-50).

Day 2: Hebron and Jericho

Drive to Hebron, the largest city in the West Bank (approximately 1 hour from Ramallah). Visit the Ibrahimi Mosque, also known as the Cave of the Patriarchs, a sacred site for Jews, Muslims, and Christians.
Explore the Old City of Hebron, with its narrow streets and alleys.

Head to Jericho, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world (approximately 1.5 hours from Hebron). Visit the Tell es-Sultan archaeological site, which dates back over 11,000 years.
Take a stroll along the Jordan River, which forms the border between Palestine and Jordan.

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Jericho, trying some traditional Palestinian dishes like kebabs or falafel.
Relax at your hotel or take a walk around the city, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

Things to Know

Hebron is a city with a rich history and cultural significance. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Jericho is known for its natural springs and beautiful scenery. Take some time to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

From Ramallah, take a taxi or bus to Hebron (approximately 1 hour, ₪50-100).
To get to Jericho from Hebron, take a taxi or bus (approximately 1.5 hours, ₪70-150).

Day 3: Nablus and Sebastia

Drive to Nablus, one of the oldest cities in Palestine (approximately 1 hour from Jericho). Visit the Old City of Nablus, with its narrow streets and alleys.
Explore the Khan al-Tujjar souk, a historic marketplace filled with vendors selling everything from spices to souvenirs.

Head to Sebastia, an ancient city located just outside Nablus (approximately 15 minutes). Visit the Sebastia Archaeological Site, which features ruins of a Roman amphitheater and other historical structures.
Take some time to appreciate the natural beauty of the area, with its rolling hills and olive groves.

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Nablus, trying some traditional Palestinian dishes like kunafeh (a dessert made with cheese and syrup) or gormeh sabzi (a herb stew).
Take a stroll around the city, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and historic architecture.

Things to Know

Nablus is known for its rich history and cultural significance. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Sebastia is an off-the-beaten-path destination. Be prepared for some rough roads and limited tourist infrastructure.

Visa Requirements

Citizens of many countries do not need a visa to enter Palestine. However, it is recommended to check with the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or a local embassy for specific requirements.
Travelers may need to obtain an Israeli visa, as Israel controls many border crossings into Palestine.

Additional Tips

Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
Try to avoid traveling during peak season (June-August) or holidays, when tourist infrastructure may be overwhelmed.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes, as you will likely be doing a lot of walking in the sun.
Learn some basic Arabic phrases, such as “hello” (مرحبا - marhaba), “thank you” (شكرا - shukraan), and “goodbye” (مع السلامة - ma’a al-salaama).