Things To Do
in Ramla

Ramla is a city in central Israel, known for its rich history dating back to ancient times. It is home to well-preserved archaeological sites, including the White Mosque and the Pool of Arches. Ramla has a diverse population, with a mix of Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities.

The city also offers a bustling market, charming old streets, and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to explore.

  • "Shalom" - Hello
  • "Toda" - Thank you
  • "Boker tov" - Good morning
  • "Laila tov" - Good night
  • "Ma nishma?" - What's up?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Ramla's History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ramla Museum to dive into the rich history of the city. Consider taking a guided tour to get deeper insights into the artifacts on display.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery before heading to the White Tower, an iconic landmark of Ramla. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.

evening
:

Stroll through the vibrant markets as the sun sets, picking up some local handicrafts. Wind down with dinner at a traditional restaurant, savoring authentic Israeli cuisine.

day 2
Ramlas Art & Culture
morning
:

Visit the local art galleries that showcase the works of Israeli artists. Engage with interactive installations for a unique experience.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the artistic side of Ramla at the Sculpture Park. The park features outdoor art that combines nature with creative expressions.

evening
:

Attend a cultural event or live performance if available. Conclude your night at a cafe, enjoying desserts and drinks under the stars.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage with many archaeological sites.
  • Diverse community with a mix of cultures and traditions.
  • Located near major cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, providing accessibility to urban amenities.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to nearby metropolitan areas.
  • Good public transportation options and infrastructure.
  • Economic challenges with lower average income levels compared to larger cities.
  • Some areas may experience social and economic disparities.
  • Limited access to some specialized healthcare services.
  • Higher crime rates in certain neighborhoods compared to national averages.
  • Congestion and traffic issues during peak times due to its strategic location.

Best Activities in Ramla

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Picnic at the Ramla Park

Enjoy a leisurely picnic amidst the beautiful surroundings of Ramla Park, a popular spot for outdoor relaxation in the city.

Visit the Ramla Open-Air Market

Explore the vibrant atmosphere of the open-air market in Ramla, with a variety of stalls offering local produce, crafts, and more.

Walking tour of Ramla's historic sites

Take a guided walking tour to discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Ramla through visits to its historic sites and landmarks.

Tours

Uncover the best of Ramla with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Ramla

Visit one of these nice places.

White Mosque

Provides a stunning view of the Old City of Ramla and its surrounding area.

Ramla Park

Offers a scenic view of the city and is ideal for capturing the modern and historical aspects of Ramla.

The Pool of Arches

Known for its picturesque setting and historical significance, offering a great photo opportunity.

Food in Ramla

Ramla, a city in Israel, offers a vibrant culinary tapestry that reflects the diversity of its population. Influences from Arab, Jewish, and Mediterranean cultures blend to create a unique and flavorful local cuisine.

Ramla Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mansaf

A traditional dish of lamb cooked in fermented dried yogurt, served with rice or bulgur. Look for it at Al-Aksa Bakery and Restaurant.

Must-Try!

Kubbeh

A dish made of bulgur or rice stuffed with spiced minced lamb or beef. Tawfiq's Kubbeh is a popular spot to try this savory delight.

Sambusak

Pastries filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. You can find delicious sambusak at Abu Hilweh Bakery.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Ramla better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ramla Market

The bustling Ramla Market offers an array of fresh produce, spices, and local specialties. Don't miss the falafel and shawarma stalls for authentic street food experience.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as a hot-summer Mediterranean climate. Summers are typically long, dry, and hot, with average high temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F) in July and August. Winters are cooler and wetter, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) between December and February. Annual rainfall is relatively low, averaging around 500 mm (20 inches), mostly occurring during the winter months. Due to the combination of high temperatures in summer and mild winters, the climate supports a range of vegetation typical of Mediterranean ecosystems, including shrubs and some trees. The area can occasionally experience humidity and breezy conditions, particularly in the evening during the hotter months. The well-defined seasons lead to distinct changes in both temperature and precipitation throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Ramla, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when having conversations.

Dress modestly in religious areas

When visiting religious sites or areas in Ramla, it is respectful to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, out of cultural sensitivity.

Be mindful of religious customs

It's important to be aware of and respect the customs of different religious groups in Ramla, such as refraining from eating or drinking in public during Ramadan.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Ramla with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Located in central Israel, this city has a mixed demographic that includes Jewish and Arab communities, contributing to its vibrant cultural tapestry. Safety in the area can vary, as with many places in the region, and is influenced by social dynamics, crime rates, and broader geopolitical factors. Generally, the urban environment has areas that are well-monitored and maintained, with local police forces actively engaged in community safety initiatives. However, like any city, there can be challenges related to crime, which may include petty crime or occasional public disturbances. It's advisable for residents and visitors to stay aware of their surroundings and follow standard safety precautions. Political tensions in the region can sometimes impact perceptions of safety, although the everyday life for many residents can often reflect a sense of normalcy. Engaging with local communities and staying informed about local news can help residents and visitors assess the safety conditions effectively. Overall, while there are standard urban safety considerations, the city has resources and efforts in place to maintain a safe environment for its residents and visitors.

Tipping in Ramla

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in Ramla, Israel, but it is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and for taxi services. A tip of around 10% is common in these establishments.

Payment

In Ramla, Israel, cash is widely accepted for smaller transactions, while credit and debit cards are commonly used for larger purchases. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are also becoming more common in urban areas.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ramla.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March-May)

Best time to visit Ramla with pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and cultural events such as the Ramla Wine Festival.

Summer (June-August)

Expect hot and dry weather with occasional heat waves, but a good time to enjoy outdoor activities and visit local markets.

Autumn (September-November)

Mild weather makes it a pleasant time to explore the city, and you can experience the Ramla Festival with music, food, and traditional crafts.

Winter (December-February)

Cool and rainy season, but still a good time to visit historical sites and enjoy the Ramla citrus festival.

Ramla at Night

The nightlife in Ramla is a vibrant mix of cultural experiences and modern entertainment. Throughout the city, you'll find numerous bars and cafes where locals and visitors alike gather to unwind and socialize. Many of these spots offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, often featuring local music, including both contemporary hits and traditional Israeli tunes. Several venues in Ramla host live music performances, ranging from intimate acoustic sets to full-band concerts. You'll also come across a few nightclubs that attract a lively crowd, with DJs spinning a blend of international dance hits and Israeli pop. Ramla's diverse culinary scene contributes to its nightlife, with many restaurants staying open late. These establishments serve a variety of foods, from traditional Middle Eastern dishes to global cuisines, providing the perfect backdrop for a relaxed evening out. Moreover, the local markets and squares often stay active into the evening, offering a different flavor of nightlife with street food vendors and artisan stalls. The combination of these elements creates a dynamic and enjoyable nightlife experience in Ramla.

Hiking in Ramla

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Latrun Monastery Trails

Beautiful hiking trails around the Latrun Monastery, offering scenic views and historical sites.

Ayalon-Canada Park

A park with well-marked trails that pass through various natural and historical sites in the area.

Soreq Cave Natural Reserve

Home to stunning limestone formations and easy hiking paths suitable for families.

Ramnath Nature Reserve

Features a variety of hiking trails amidst lush vegetation and wildlife.

Yehuda Forest

A forest area with plenty of trails, perfect for a day of hiking and picnicking.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Ramla through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Ramla by plane.

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)

The main international airport in Israel, located near Tel Aviv, approximately 30 kilometers from Ramla. It handles a majority of the country's international flights.

Haifa Airport (HFA)

An international airport located in Haifa, about 80 kilometers north of Ramla. It serves mainly domestic flights and limited international services.

Eilat Ramon Airport (ETM)

Located approximately 200 kilometers south of Ramla, this airport serves as the main airport for Eilat and offers some international flights.

Sde Dov Airport (SDV)

A domestic airport in Tel Aviv, located about 35 kilometers from Ramla. It primarily serves domestic flights but has limited international connections.

Walkability

Walkability in this city is characterized by a mix of historical architecture, vibrant markets, and public spaces that encourage pedestrian movement. The layout features a blend of narrow streets and wider avenues, making it convenient for residents and visitors to navigate on foot. Key areas, such as the bustling central market, are designed to promote pedestrian access, allowing people to shop, dine, and socialize without the need for a vehicle. Tree-lined sidewalks and designated crosswalks enhance the walking experience, while public parks provide resting spots and a break from the urban environment. Public transportation options, including buses and nearby train stations, further support walkability by connecting various neighborhoods, making it easier for people to explore the area on foot. Ongoing development plans aim to improve infrastructure and enhance pedestrian-friendly spaces, ensuring that walking remains a key mode of transport in the city for both residents and tourists. Overall, the combination of historical charm and modern amenities contributes to an inviting atmosphere for pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Jewish

The majority of the population, primarily comprising secular, traditional, and religious Jews.

Arab

Predominantly Muslim, with a smaller percentage of Christians and Druze communities.

Other

Includes various smaller demographic groups and immigrants from other countries.

The Soul of Ramla

Discover the essence of Ramla through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Ramla, with many local clubs and a strong community following.

Basketball

Basketball has a significant presence in Ramla, with teams participating in local leagues and competitions.

Athletics

Athletics is promoted in schools and community centers, allowing locals to engage in various track and field events.

Cycling

Cycling is favored by many residents, with various paths and routes available for both recreational and competitive cycling.

Swimming

Swimming is popular, with facilities available for both leisure and competitive swimming events.

Traffic

Traffic in this city can be quite congested, especially during peak hours. The layout includes a mix of residential areas and commercial zones, leading to busy streets filled with both local and through traffic. The main roads often experience heavy vehicular flow, leading to delays and increased travel times. Public transportation options are available, including buses that connect to other parts of the country and nearby cities. However, roads can be narrow in some areas, making it challenging for vehicles to navigate, particularly during rush hour when many residents commute to work or school. Cycling and walking are viable options in certain parts of the city, but the traffic conditions can sometimes make these alternatives less appealing. Moreover, with ongoing urban development, changes to roads and infrastructure may influence traffic patterns in the future. Overall, navigating the traffic in this area requires patience, particularly during busy times of the day.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ramla.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many establishments in Ramla offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as hummus, falafel, and stuffed grape leaves. Look for 'hummusiyas' which specialize in these options.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options may be limited, traditional dishes like grilled meats, rice-based dishes, and salads can often be suitable for those avoiding gluten. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Ramla with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in this city is characterized by a combination of public and private services. The public healthcare system is primarily provided through Clalit, one of the largest health maintenance organizations (HMOs) in Israel, which offers residents access to comprehensive medical care, including hospital services, outpatient clinics, and specialist care. There are several medical facilities in the area, including community clinics and hospitals. Notably, the Ramla Health Center provides various services, including preventive care, routine check-ups, and treatment for chronic conditions. Residents can also access specialized services in nearby larger cities, such as Tel Aviv. The healthcare system in the region benefits from Israel's overall high standard of medical care, which includes advanced technology and well-trained professionals. While the majority of the population receives services through the public system, there are private healthcare options available, offering faster access to specialists and non-emergency procedures. Health education and preventive care are important components of the local healthcare approach, with community programs aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and managing chronic diseases. Overall, the healthcare landscape is integrated and offers various options to meet the diverse needs of the population.

Discover Israel

Read more in our Israel 2024 Travel Guide.

Israel Travel Guide