Things To Do
in Nāblus
Nablus is a historic city in the central West Bank, renowned for its dense Old City, Ottoman-era architecture, and honey-toned stone. The bustling souqs overflow with fresh produce, spices, and fragrant sweets, inviting visitors to wander for hours. It is famous for knafeh and olive oil soaps, whose aromas linger long after a tasting.
Surrounding hills offer panoramic vistas, ancient ruins, and a slower pace that reveals everyday Palestinian life and hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Old City of Nāblus, where you can wander through the narrow, winding streets lined with traditional stone houses. Stop by the Al-Kasaba mosque, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture, and take in the serene atmosphere. Don’t forget to grab a local breakfast, such as fresh bread and cheese from a nearby bakery.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant souk, where you can shop for spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods while interacting with friendly local vendors. Visit the historic Jacob's Well, a significant biblical site, and learn about its storied past. As the sun begins to set, take a stroll to the nearby Mount Gerizim for a panoramic view of the city.
For dinner, head to a local restaurant to sample traditional Palestinian dishes like musakhan or maqluba, enjoying the warm atmosphere and hospitality. After your meal, explore the bustling streets as locals gather for evening socializing, perhaps stopping for a cup of sweet Arabic coffee. Conclude your day by relaxing at a café, soaking in the lively ambiance of Nāblus at night.
Begin your day with a visit to an olive oil mill, where you can learn about the traditional methods of olive oil production, from harvesting to pressing. Participate in a tasting session, savoring the rich flavors of high-quality olive oil paired with freshly baked bread. This immersive experience will deepen your appreciation for one of the region's most cherished products.
In the afternoon, head to a local soap factory to discover the ancient craft of soap making, particularly the famous Nāblus soap made with olive oil and laurel. Observe artisans at work and may even have the chance to create your own soap bar to take home as a memorable souvenir. After the workshop, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, sampling local delicacies.
As night falls, visit a local cultural center or community space where you can engage with young artists and musicians showcasing their talents. Participate in a traditional dance or music session, connecting with the vibrant cultural scene of Nāblus. End your evening with a stroll through the city, enjoying the serene night atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Local transportation (short ride) | $2-4 |
| 🎟️Museum or site entry | $3-7 |
| 🧭Guided tour | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Warm hospitality and vibrant markets
- Occasional travel delays near checkpoints
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam thaman?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ana min…" - I am from…
Places to Visit in Nāblus
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic site along the old city with stone terraces and vantage points over traditional markets.
Characterful stone arches, colorful textiles, and bustling stalls perfect for street photography.
Panoramic vista of the valley and city; especially photogenic at sunrise or sunset.
Ancient ruins with surrounding terraced countryside offering wide landscape shots.
Food in Nāblus
Nāblus Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A famous cheese pastry topped with crisp kataifi and orange-colored syrup; best at traditional bakeries in the Old City.
Must-Try!
Roasted chicken with sumac and onions served over flatbread; a aromatic, hearty staple often found in family-run eateries.
Crispy chickpea fritters served in bread with tahini, pickles, and salads from street stalls.
Upside-down rice dish with meat and vegetables; typically shared family-style with yogurt or salad on the side.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market corridor offering fresh produce, spices, breads, olives, and sweets; great for tasting local snacks and soaking in daily life.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly at religious sites; remove shoes where required and ask before entering prayer areas.
A warm 'Salam alaykom' or a simple 'Marhaba' goes a long way; handshake etiquette varies by gender and context.
Safety
Tipping in Nāblus
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is appreciated for good service. For guides and drivers, consider rounding up or tipping 10% when you’re satisfied.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming orchards; ideal for walking tours and hillside photography.
Hot and dry; carry water, seek shade, and enjoy evenings on city patios.
Pleasant temperatures and harvest-time atmosphere; great for day trips and countryside drives.
Cool and occasionally rainy; pack a warm layer and waterproofs; some outdoor sites may be damp.
Nāblus at Night
Hiking in Nāblus
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Historic ruins set amid terraced hillsides with accessible trails and panoramic views.
Airports
How to reach Nāblus by plane.
Primary international gateway in Tel Aviv; about 60-90 minutes by road from Nablus, depending on traffic and border crossing times.
Amman’s main international gateway; accessible via land border crossings or short flights from Amman; provides additional international access for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic; families, students at An-Najah University, and local workers.
Nearby Balata area hosts refugee populations; cultural influences are visible in markets, cuisine, and daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and schools host matches and informal games in city parks and stadiums.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nāblus.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Palestinian vegetarian options include falafel, hummus, mutabbal, salatet jadra, and seasonal vegetables; request olive oil instead of ghee and confirm stock of meat broth when dining out.