Palestine 7 Day Itinerary

Palestine 7-Day Travel Itinerary (Markdown Format)

Day 1: Arrival in Bethlehem

  • Arrival at Ben Gurion Airport (Israel) - You can reach Palestine via Israel as there is no direct international airport in Palestine. From the airport, take a taxi or rent a car to Bethlehem.
  • Check-in and Rest - Depending on your arrival time, you may want to rest after the journey.
  • Church of the Nativity - Visit this historic site, believed by Christians to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ. It’s located in Manger Square, Bethlehem.
  • Shepherd’s Field - A short drive from Bethlehem takes you to the traditional site where angels appeared to shepherds to announce the birth of Jesus.

Day 2: Exploring Bethlehem

  • Manger Square - Spend the morning exploring Manger Square, visiting local shops and trying some Palestinian cuisine.
  • Church of Saint Catherine - This church is located near the Milk Grotto and is said to be built on the site where Mary’s milk droplets fell after Jesus was born.
  • Milk Grotto - A small cave where tradition says the Holy Family sought refuge when they fled from King Herod’s soldiers. The grotto is known for its white limestone, said to have healing properties.
  • Aida Refugee Camp - Visit this camp and learn about the Palestinian refugees’ story and their daily life.

Day 3: Jericho Day Trip

  • Travel to Jericho - Take a taxi or join a tour group to visit Jericho, the world’s oldest city.
  • Tel es-Sultan (Jericho Archaeological Site) - Explore this impressive archaeological site, which includes the ruins of ancient Jericho and the famous Mount of Temptation.
  • Return to Bethlehem

Day 4: Hebron

  • Travel to Hebron - Head to Hebron, home to two of the holiest sites in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
  • Ibrahimi Mosque (Tomb of Patriarchs) - This significant religious site is believed to be the burial place of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Rebecca, and Leah. Non-Muslim visitors can only enter the Cave of Machpelah.
  • Old City of Hebron - Explore the narrow streets of the Old City, visit local markets, and experience traditional Palestinian life.
  • Beit Rachel (Rachel’s Tomb) - A significant site for Jews and Christians located at the northern edge of Hebron.

Day 5: Jenin and Nablus

  • Travel to Jenin - Visit Jenin, a city with a rich history and vibrant local life.
  • Jenin Refugee Camp - Learn about the experiences of Palestinians who were displaced during the 1948 and 1967 conflicts.
  • Travel to Nablus - Head to Nablus, known for its Old City, bustling markets, and the ancient Balata Refugee Camp.
  • Khan al-Ahmar (Tent Village) - Visit this Bedouin community under threat of demolition by Israeli authorities.

Day 6: Ramallah and Bethlehem

  • Travel to Ramallah - Head to Ramallah, the administrative center of the Palestinian Authority.
  • Palestine Museum - Learn about the history, culture, and daily life of Palestinians at this fascinating museum.
  • Yasser Arafat Mausoleum - Pay your respects at the final resting place of Yasser Arafat, former president of the Palestinian Authority.
  • Return to Bethlehem

Day 7: Departure

  • Last Minutes in Bethlehem - Spend your last hours in Palestine exploring any missed sites or relaxing at a local cafĂ©.
  • Departure - Make your way back to Ben Gurion Airport for your departure.

Things to Know:

  1. Visa Requirements - Travelers from some countries may need a visa to enter Palestine. Check the latest requirements with your local Palestinian embassy or consulate.
  2. Currency - The official currency in Palestine is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS). Major credit cards are accepted in many places, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  3. Transportation - Taxis and rented cars are the most common ways to get around. Remember to negotiate prices before starting your journey.
  4. Safety - Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. Check travel advisories before your trip and follow any local safety advice.
  5. Respect Local Customs - Palestine is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s essential to dress modestly and behave respectfully.
  6. Language - Arabic is the official language of Palestine. English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.
  7. Tipping - In restaurants and taxis, a 10% tip is customary if service charge is not included.

7-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Palestine

Day 1: Arrival in Bethlehem

Places to Go:

  1. Church of the Nativity: The birthplace of Jesus Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  2. Manger Square: A lively square surrounded by various churches and shops.

Activities:

  1. Visit Milk Grotto Shop: Buy some milk grotto olive oil soap as a souvenir.
  2. Attend mass at the Church of St. Catherine.

Things to Know:

  • Bethlehem is in the West Bank, and Palestine does not have its own international airport. The closest international airports are Tel Aviv (Israel) or Amman (Jordan). From there, you can arrange a transfer to Bethlehem.

Day 2: Explore Bethlehem & Surroundings

Places to Go:

  1. Shepherd’s Field: Traditionally believed to be where the angels announced Jesus’ birth to shepherds.
  2. Rachel’s Tomb: A significant site for Jews, Christians, and Muslims.
  3. Mar Saba Monastery (optional due to its secluded location): One of the oldest monasteries in the world.

Activities:

  1. Experience a traditional Palestinian meal at a local restaurant.
  2. Visit a Fair Trade artisan shop like Palestine Fair Trade Association.

Day 3: Jericho & the Dead Sea

Places to Go:

  1. Tel es-Sultan (Jericho Archaeological Site): One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
  2. Mount of Temptation Monastery (optional due to steep climb or cable car): Traditionally associated with Jesus’ temptation by Satan.
  3. Dead Sea: Float and enjoy the therapeutic mineral-rich waters.

Activities:

  1. Try out a mud bath at one of the Dead Sea resorts.
  2. Visit Hisham’s Palace, an 8th-century Umayyad palace.

Day 4: Travel to Nablus

Places to Go:

  1. Old City of Nablus: Explore the narrow streets and traditional Palestinian marketplaces.
  2. Jacob’s Well: A significant site in Christian tradition.
  3. Balata Refugee Camp (optional due to sensitive nature): Gain insights into the refugee experience in Palestine.

Activities:

  1. Taste local Nabulsi cheese and sweets at a local shop.
  2. Visit the soap factory in the Old City.

Day 5: Travel to Hebron & Birzeit

Places to Go:

  1. Ibrahimi Mosque (Cave of Patriarchs): A significant site for Jews, Christians, and Muslims.
  2. Old City of Hebron: Wander through the ancient streets and visit the souk.
  3. Beit Ummar Artisans’ Village in Birzeit: Experience Palestinian craftsmanship and traditional arts.

Activities:

  1. Take a cooking class to learn about Palestinian cuisine.
  2. Visit Khalil Rehabilitation Center, a project by International Solidarity Movement.

Day 6: Ramallah & Bethlehem (return)

Places to Go:

  1. Mamounia Bakery in Ramallah: Taste the famous Palestinian manakeesh.
  2. Arafat Museum in Ramallah: Learn about the life and legacy of Yasser Arafat, former leader of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO).
  3. Church of the Dormition in Bethlehem: Traditionally believed to be where Mary died.

Activities:

  1. Attend a performance at Edward Said National Conservatory of Music in Birzeit.
  2. Visit the Banksy Art in Bethlehem’s Hotel Paris and Walled Off Hotel.

Day 7: Departure from Bethlehem

On this final day, make any last-minute purchases or sightseeing before transferring to either Tel Aviv (Israel) or Amman (Jordan) for your flight home. Be sure to remember your unique experiences and the friendships you’ve made during your journey in Palestine!

Visa Requirements:

  • Most travelers will require a visa to enter Palestine. Check with your local Palestinian embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on visa requirements for your nationality.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are the most common means of transportation within cities and between major towns in Palestine.
  • You can also rent a car with a driver if you prefer to have more flexibility during your travels.
  • Be sure to agree on the price before starting your journey when taking a taxi.

Other Tips:

  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases, such as “Shukran” (thank you) and “Marhaba” (hello), to make interactions with locals more enjoyable.
  • Palestinian food is rich in tradition and flavor; don’t miss trying dishes like maqluba, mansaf, or falafel.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and respect local customs and traditions.