Things To Do
in Ramallah
Ramallah, in the West Bank, sits on a cluster of hills just north of Jerusalem and blends a modern, café-filled city with deep cultural roots. It acts as the administrative and cultural heart of the Palestinian territories, hosting museums, galleries, and vibrant markets. Visitors will find welcoming hospitality, lively public squares, and a growing street-art and culinary scene.
The surrounding countryside offers olive groves, valleys, and easy routes for day trips to nearby villages.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Ramallah and check into your hotel. Spend some time settling in and refreshing yourself before heading out to explore the city. Consider visiting the local markets to get a feel for the culture and ambiance of the area.
After lunch, take a leisurely walk to the Arafat Museum to learn about the life of one of the most significant figures in Palestinian history. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the political and cultural landscape of the region. Spend the afternoon strolling through the nearby gardens.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Palestinian restaurant and try local dishes such as mansaf or makloubeh. After dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife in Ramallah, which has a growing array of cafes and bars. Consider joining a local event or performance to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Start the day with a visit to the ancient town of Birzeit, where you can explore the archaeological site and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Take a walk around the local university campus to appreciate its beautiful architecture. Grab breakfast at a nearby café to fuel your day.
After learning about the historical significance of Birzeit, return to Ramallah and visit the Palestinian Museum, which features contemporary Palestinian art and exhibitions. Engage with the exhibits to better understand the cultural narrative of the region. Enjoy lunch at the museum café, which offers a variety of local culinary delights.
End the day with a peaceful evening walk at the Al-Amari refugee camp site, where community initiatives often showcase local artistry. Engage with residents to learn about their experiences and resilience. Consider attending a storytelling night or a local tradition to further connect with the culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕One-way taxi ride within the city | $3-6 |
| 🏨1-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with cafes, markets, and cultural venues
- Warm hospitality and easy access to nearby villages and Jerusalem
- Political tensions can affect travel plans; plan ahead
- Some areas require ground transport to reach more remote viewpoints
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kam hadha?" - How much is this?
- "Hal tatakallam al-Ingliziya?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ana la atakallam al-‘Arabiyya" - I do not speak Arabic
- "La shukran" - No thank you
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
Places to Visit in Ramallah
Visit one of these nice places.
The bustling heart of Ramallah with fountains, traffic, and the surrounding hills as a dynamic backdrop.
Narrow stone lanes, colorful doors, and cultural spaces provide intimate, textured photos.
A blend of modern architecture and greenery offering candid campus life shots and architecture.
Panoramic valley and city views, especially striking at sunset.
Architectural spaces and curated exhibits provide opportunities for architecture and detail shots.
Food in Ramallah
Ramallah Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roasted chicken with sumac-onion topping served on taboon bread; a beloved centerpiece in Palestinian cuisine.
Must-Try!
Upside-down rice dish with meat and vegetables, flipped onto a platter and served with yogurt or salad.
Lamb or beef over rice with jameed sauce, often shared on special occasions.
Classic dips and fried chickpea croquettes; widely available and perfect for a quick bite.
Sweet cheese pastry soaked in syrup, a popular dessert in bakeries and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling lanes with fresh produce, spices, nuts, bread, and stalls offering quick street meals like falafel and shawarma.
Vibrant areas to sample street desserts, olives, cheese, and regional pastries; best late afternoon and evening.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Palestinians are known for warmth and hospitality; accept tea or coffee when offered and return gestures of kindness.
Conservative attire is common, especially in religious sites and traditional neighborhoods.
Ask before photographing people, especially in intimate settings or private homes; avoid security-sensitive locations without permission.
If invited home, bringing a small token (sweets or pastries) is appreciated.
Approach politics and tensions with sensitivity; greetings like 'Salam' are welcome and customary.
Safety
Tipping in Ramallah
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included. Rounding up for taxis or small street vendors is common.
Cash (Israeli shekel and USD) is widely accepted; many places also take credit/debit cards, particularly in Ramallah; ATMs are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming landscapes; great for outdoor walks and photography; occasional showers possible.
Hot and dry; plan outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings; stay hydrated and seek shade.
Comfortable temperatures with colorful skies at dusk; ideal for street photography and city strolls.
Cool and wetter months; pack a rain jacket and layers; many indoor cultural events happen year-round.
Ramallah at Night
Hiking in Ramallah
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic ridge walk offering city and valley panoramas; easy to moderate depending on section.
Gentle loop through olive groves north of Ramallah; great for a relaxed half-day hike.
Moderate trail around hillside viewpoints near Beitunia; bring water and sun protection.
Airports
How to reach Ramallah by plane.
Israel’s main international hub about 40-60 minutes from Ramallah by road to Jerusalem; common entry point for international travelers to the region.
Jordan’s main international gateway; often used by travelers heading to the West Bank via border crossings and regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population, predominantly Muslim with a Christian minority.
A large, educated, and active segment driving cultural events and startup culture.
People with family roots in the area who visit for business and family ties.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local leagues and matches widely attended.
Played in schools and community centers; informal games and local clubs are common in Ramallah.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ramallah.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are plentiful—falafel, hummus, mujaddara, and fresh salads. Ask for olive oil and avoid lard or animal-based broths.