Best Things To Do In Palestine This Year

Walk the Nativity Trail

Tracing the footsteps of ancient pilgrims offers a profound way to experience Palestine’s cultural and religious heritage. The Nativity Trail stretches approximately 160 kilometers from Nazareth to Bethlehem, weaving through picturesque villages, olive groves, and rolling hills. This journey provides a rare opportunity to connect with local communities, experience authentic Palestinian hospitality, and witness traditional lifestyles that have endured for centuries. Along the way, travelers encounter biblical landmarks, ancient ruins, and sacred sites, deepening the spiritual significance of the trail. The route culminates in Bethlehem, home to the Church of the Nativity, a UNESCO World Heritage Site believed to mark the birthplace of Jesus. Trekkers often stay in family-run guesthouses, supporting rural economies while enjoying home-cooked meals and genuine hospitality. Ideal for history buffs, religious travelers, and nature lovers, the Nativity Trail encapsulates Palestine’s rich tapestry of history, faith, and breathtaking landscapes, making it an unforgettable experience.

Participate in the Olive Harvest

Seasonal traditions like the olive harvest reflect the deep connection Palestinians share with their land. Taking place each autumn, the harvest season is a vital cultural event, symbolizing resilience, heritage, and unity. Visitors can join local farmers in ancient olive groves, learning the age-old techniques of hand-picking olives passed down through generations. This immersive experience offers a firsthand understanding of Palestinian agricultural life while supporting rural families who rely on olive oil production for their livelihood. Conversations flow easily during the harvest, fostering cultural exchange as guests hear personal stories of the land’s significance. Beyond harvesting, participants witness the traditional pressing process, where the olives are turned into rich, golden oil. Many farms offer tastings of fresh olive oil alongside local bread, za’atar, and produce, turning the day into a culinary delight. Participating in the olive harvest provides a meaningful way to engage with Palestine’s enduring traditions and rural life.

Explore the Ruins of Sebastia

Nestled atop a scenic hill near Nablus, Sebastia reveals layers of history dating back over 3,000 years. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Israel, the site boasts remnants of Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader civilizations. Visitors stroll through vast archaeological ruins, including a Roman amphitheater, towering columns, and the ruins of King Herod’s palace. The area’s significance is heightened by its biblical connections, particularly as the traditional burial site of John the Baptist. Local guides offer captivating insights into Sebastia’s complex history, explaining how different empires shaped the region. The village itself charms visitors with stone houses and small family-run cafés serving authentic Palestinian dishes. Lush olive groves and panoramic views complete the experience, making Sebastia a perfect destination for history enthusiasts. Exploring these ancient ruins not only uncovers Palestine’s storied past but also supports local communities preserving their cultural heritage amid breathtaking landscapes.

Visit the Banksy Art Hotel in Bethlehem

Unconventional experiences await travelers at the Banksy-designed Walled Off Hotel in Bethlehem. Located adjacent to the towering separation wall, this unique art hotel offers “the worst view in the world,” yet attracts global attention for its provocative political art. Every room features original pieces by the elusive British street artist Banksy, blending humor, irony, and powerful commentary on the Palestinian experience. Guests can tour the on-site museum, which delves into the wall’s impact on local communities, or relax in the colonial-style piano bar decorated with satirical murals. The hotel also houses a gallery showcasing local Palestinian artists, offering a platform for creative voices often unheard. Beyond just accommodation, the Walled Off Hotel is a cultural landmark, sparking conversations about conflict, identity, and art’s role in activism. A visit provides rare insight into Palestine’s contemporary narrative while supporting local artisans and tourism in Bethlehem.

Hike in Wadi Qelt

Adventurers seeking natural beauty combined with historical intrigue will find Wadi Qelt unforgettable. Stretching through the Judean Desert between Jerusalem and Jericho, this breathtaking gorge features dramatic cliffs, freshwater springs, and remnants of ancient aqueducts. The trail winds past the awe-inspiring St. George’s Monastery, carved into the cliffside and still inhabited by Greek Orthodox monks. Hikers traverse rugged terrain, encountering wildlife like gazelles and hyraxes while enjoying panoramic desert views. The refreshing spring at Ein Qelt offers a welcome respite, perfect for a cool dip before continuing the journey. Along the path, biblical references come alive, with scholars suggesting Wadi Qelt is the “Valley of the Shadow of Death” from Psalm 23. Ideal for seasoned hikers, photographers, and history enthusiasts, this trail seamlessly blends spirituality, nature, and adventure. Exploring Wadi Qelt showcases Palestine’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage in one of the region’s most dramatic natural settings.

Experience a Homestay in a Palestinian Village

Authentic cultural immersion thrives within Palestine’s rural villages, where traditional homestays offer visitors a glimpse into daily life. Staying with local families in villages like Battir, Taybeh, or Beit Sahour reveals rich traditions, warm hospitality, and generational stories tied to the land. Guests share meals featuring homemade delicacies like maqluba and musakhan, prepared with freshly harvested local ingredients. Evenings often involve lively conversations over strong Arabic coffee, providing insight into Palestinian customs, challenges, and resilience. Hosts may guide visitors through olive groves, family farms, or village markets, deepening connections with the local way of life. Many homestays also incorporate hands-on activities such as bread baking or embroidery workshops, allowing guests to actively participate in cultural preservation. Beyond providing a comfortable stay, these experiences foster meaningful relationships and support community-based tourism. Choosing a Palestinian homestay enriches the journey with unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of the region’s enduring spirit.

Tour the Old City of Nablus

Vibrant alleyways, bustling souks, and ancient architecture define Nablus’s Old City, offering visitors a rich cultural experience. Known for its historic soap factories and traditional sweets, Nablus serves as a living museum of Palestinian heritage. Exploring the city reveals centuries-old mosques, Ottoman-era buildings, and hammams, with each corner reflecting the area’s diverse past. Local artisans proudly demonstrate the centuries-old craft of Nabulsi soap-making, using pure olive oil and traditional methods. The scent of freshly baked knafeh, Nablus’s famous dessert, fills the air, tempting visitors into charming cafés for a taste. Shoppers navigate colorful markets overflowing with spices, textiles, and hand-crafted goods, perfect for unique souvenirs. Historic sites like the Great Mosque and the Samaritan neighborhood add layers of religious and cultural significance. Touring Nablus’s Old City not only celebrates Palestine’s vibrant traditions but also supports local craftspeople, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Attend the Taybeh Oktoberfest

Festivities take a lively turn at Taybeh Oktoberfest, a unique cultural event held annually in the Christian village of Taybeh. Known for its locally brewed craft beer, Taybeh Brewery hosts the festival each autumn, drawing thousands of visitors from across the region and beyond. The celebration blends Palestinian heritage with international flair, featuring live music, dance performances, and artisanal craft stalls. Traditional dabke dancers share the stage with rock bands, creating a diverse and engaging atmosphere. Local vendors showcase handmade goods, while food stalls offer Palestinian specialties alongside beer tastings from Taybeh’s famous brews. The festival’s family-friendly environment also includes children’s activities and cultural exhibitions, promoting community spirit and resilience. Taybeh Oktoberfest not only highlights Palestine’s first microbrewery but also fosters economic development and cultural pride. Attending this vibrant event offers a rare blend of tradition and modernity, providing visitors with unforgettable memories of Palestinian hospitality and celebration.

Visit the Tent of Nations

Family-owned and deeply rooted in peace activism, the Tent of Nations sits atop a hill near Bethlehem, offering visitors a meaningful encounter with Palestinian resilience. Managed by the Nassar family, this 100-acre farm operates under the motto, “We refuse to be enemies,” symbolizing non-violent resistance against land confiscation. Guests are welcomed to tour the farm’s vineyards, olive groves, and fruit orchards, gaining insight into sustainable agriculture in a region fraught with challenges. Educational workshops on organic farming, composting, and permaculture practices are regularly held, inviting visitors to participate hands-on. The site’s simplicity offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, providing a serene space for reflection. Overnight stays in eco-friendly tents or caves are also available, allowing deeper engagement with the land and the family’s inspiring story. Visiting the Tent of Nations leaves a lasting impression, showcasing the powerful intersection of faith, environmentalism, and steadfast dedication to peace and justice.

Explore the Monastery of Mar Saba

Perched dramatically on the cliffs of the Kidron Valley, the Monastery of Mar Saba stands as one of the oldest and most striking monasteries in the region. Founded in the 5th century by Saint Sabas, this Greek Orthodox monastery showcases centuries of spiritual devotion, enduring architecture, and breathtaking desert scenery. The golden-hued stone structures blend seamlessly into the rugged cliffs, creating a mesmerizing sight at sunrise or sunset. Though access to the inner sanctum is restricted to men, all visitors can admire the monastery’s grandeur from the designated lookout points. The monastery still houses monks who maintain its sacred traditions, offering a living testament to ancient monastic life. Surrounding hiking trails lead adventurers through dramatic landscapes dotted with caves once inhabited by hermits. Exploring Mar Saba not only reveals Palestine’s rich religious history but also provides an unforgettable encounter with the stark beauty of the Judean Desert.

Discover the Caves of Beit Jibrin

Ancient marvels lie beneath the hills of Beit Jibrin, home to a vast network of man-made caves with a rich history spanning thousands of years. Known today as the Maresha and Bet Guvrin National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features interconnected caves, cisterns, and underground rooms carved by successive civilizations, including the Edomites, Romans, and Byzantines. Visitors explore intricate bell-shaped caves, olive presses, and columbaria once used for raising doves. Each chamber tells a unique story, showcasing ancient engineering marvels and daily life from various eras. The site’s natural beauty enhances the experience, with rolling hills and lush greenery surrounding the caves. Guided tours reveal fascinating archaeological discoveries while offering insight into the region’s multicultural past. Discovering Beit Jibrin’s caves provides a captivating journey through time, making it a must-visit destination for history lovers and those intrigued by Palestine’s layered heritage and extraordinary subterranean landscapes.

Visit the Palestinian Museum in Birzeit

Contemporary art, history, and culture converge at the Palestinian Museum in Birzeit, offering visitors an enriching perspective on Palestine’s past and present. Housed in an award-winning modern building, the museum’s design harmonizes with its surrounding olive groves, reflecting both heritage and innovation. Permanent and rotating exhibitions feature multimedia installations, photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays, exploring themes of identity, displacement, and resilience. The museum also hosts educational workshops, artist talks, and community programs, fostering cultural dialogue and learning. Visitors gain insight into Palestine’s complex narratives beyond politics, focusing on art, agriculture, and everyday life. The panoramic terrace offers sweeping views of the West Bank’s hills, perfect for reflection. Conveniently located near Ramallah, the museum attracts both local and international audiences seeking authentic cultural experiences. A visit to the Palestinian Museum enriches understanding, inspires critical thinking, and underscores the enduring spirit of Palestinian creativity and heritage.

Attend a Performance at the Freedom Theatre in Jenin

Artistic expression flourishes at the Freedom Theatre in Jenin, a renowned cultural institution dedicated to empowering Palestinian youth through drama and storytelling. Located in the Jenin Refugee Camp, the theatre serves as a creative outlet for voices often marginalized by conflict. Performances tackle powerful social and political themes, blending traditional Palestinian tales with contemporary narratives that resonate deeply with local and international audiences. In addition to stage productions, the theatre offers workshops in acting, filmmaking, and photography, nurturing the next generation of artists and storytellers. Visitors attending a live performance witness firsthand the transformative power of art, while gaining insight into the daily struggles and resilience of the community. The intimate setting fosters connection, encouraging meaningful conversations about freedom, identity, and hope. A visit to the Freedom Theatre provides not just entertainment, but a profound cultural experience that highlights the enduring strength and creativity of Palestine’s artistic spirit.

Explore the Hisham’s Palace in Jericho

Historical intrigue awaits at Hisham’s Palace, an 8th-century Umayyad complex located on the outskirts of Jericho, one of the world’s oldest cities. This archaeological treasure features remarkably preserved ruins, including a grand audience hall, baths, and a sophisticated irrigation system that showcases the engineering brilliance of the Islamic Golden Age. The site’s most celebrated feature is the famous “Tree of Life” mosaic, an exquisite masterpiece depicting a lion attacking a gazelle, symbolizing strength and survival. Although partially ruined by an earthquake centuries ago, the palace’s scale and artistic detail remain awe-inspiring. Visitors stroll through vast courtyards and imagine the opulence that once defined this desert palace. Informational plaques and local guides enrich the experience with historical context and fascinating stories about its significance. Exploring Hisham’s Palace offers a glimpse into Palestine’s Islamic heritage and highlights Jericho’s vital role as a crossroads of ancient civilizations.

Float in the Dead Sea

Earth’s lowest point offers a truly unforgettable experience as visitors float effortlessly in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea. Bordering the West Bank, this natural wonder attracts travelers seeking relaxation, wellness, and scenic beauty. Rich in minerals like magnesium and potassium, the Dead Sea’s waters and mud are believed to have therapeutic properties, beneficial for skin conditions and joint pain. Bathing in the buoyant waters creates a surreal sensation, allowing even non-swimmers to float effortlessly on the surface. Surrounding beaches provide access points with changing facilities and mud baths, making the visit comfortable and enjoyable. The stark desert landscape, with its dramatic mountains and salt formations, adds to the unique ambiance. Sunset views across the water create breathtaking photo opportunities. Floating in the Dead Sea not only rejuvenates the body but also offers a peaceful retreat, leaving visitors refreshed and deeply connected to one of Palestine’s natural treasures.