Occupied Palestinian Territory

Palestine is a land with a multilayered history, where every stone literally breathes antiquity. Situated at the crossroads of vital trade routes between Asia and Africa, this territory attracts travelers with its unique cultural heritage and hospitality. The region's geography is diverse: from fertile valleys and olive groves to rugged desert landscapes and the Mediterranean coast.

An important cultural and historical center of the region is Gaza, a city with centuries of history that once served as a key port on caravan routes. The overall atmosphere of the region is steeped in traditions carefully preserved by the locals, creating a unique character that is impossible to forget.

The official currency in Palestine is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS); however, Jordanian Dinars and US Dollars are also frequently used in daily transactions, especially for larger deals. Shekel banknotes feature vibrant designs with images of prominent figures. You can exchange currency at banks or numerous exchange offices, which usually offer better rates and have longer opening hours.

In major cities like Gaza, bank cards are accepted in shopping malls, hotels, and some restaurants, but for shopping at traditional markets or paying for transport, it is essential to carry cash. ATMs are widely available in urban areas, but before traveling to more remote villages, it is better to ensure you have a cash reserve in advance.

Entry to Palestine for tourists is usually conducted through border points controlled by neighboring countries, so visa rules directly depend on the entry conditions of those states. For citizens of many countries, including the EU and the US, a visa is often issued upon arrival at the airport or land border; however, representatives from CIS countries should clarify visa requirements at the relevant embassy in advance.

To successfully cross the border, you must have a passport valid for at least six months, confirmation of accommodation booking, and return tickets. It is also recommended to arrange medical insurance. Before your trip, be sure to check the latest information on official government resources, as rules may change depending on the current international situation.

The territory of Palestine is in the EET (Eastern European Time) time zone, which corresponds to UTC+2. During the summer period, the region switches to daylight saving time (EEST), and the clocks are set forward one hour to UTC+3.

The transition between summer and winter time usually occurs in spring and autumn, synchronized with most countries in the region. Travelers should take this into account when planning trips and transport connections to always stay on schedule.

There are several ways to reach Palestine, although there are currently no direct international flights to the region itself. The majority of travelers arrive through international airports in neighboring countries and then continue their journey by land through border crossings. Most often, tourists use major air hubs such as Ben Gurion International Airport or Amman Airport in Jordan.

To cross the border and move between cities, it is convenient to use buses or the famous shared taxis—"service"—which are the most popular and authentic way for locals to get around. When planning a trip, it is recommended to check the current operating hours of border crossings in advance and account for potential document checks, which are standard procedures in the region.

A journey through Palestine reveals a kaleidoscope of ancient cities and unique landscapes to tourists. One of the key destinations is Gaza—a city with a rich past located on the coast, where historical monuments stand alongside seascapes. Visiting such places allows you to touch living history preserved in the architecture and way of life.

In addition to major centers, cozy settlements in the hilly areas, known for their vineyards and olive plantations, deserve attention. The region offers a variety of destinations: from spiritual centers to places ideal for culinary tourism, where you can taste authentic Levantine dishes.

One of the most significant attractions is the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem—one of the oldest functioning churches in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This majestic structure impresses with its massive architecture and ancient mosaics preserved on the walls.

Equally interesting is the ancient city of Jericho, which is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on the planet. Here, you can see the ruins of Canaanite walls and take a cable car up to the Mount of Temptation, which offers breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea.

In the city of Nablus, it is worth visiting the Old City, famous for its narrow streets, traditional soap factories, and markets where the region's best dessert—knafeh—is prepared. The architecture of this place is a unique blend of Ottoman style and earlier eras, creating the atmosphere of a true Eastern adventure.

The best time to travel to Palestine is spring (from March to May) or autumn (September and October). During these periods, the temperature is most comfortable, making it ideal for long walks and exploring ancient monuments. In spring, the hills are covered with greenery and wildflowers, while autumn brings gentle warmth and the olive harvest season.

High season traditionally coincides with major religious holidays, when pilgrims from all over the world flock to cities like Bethlehem. During this time, prices may be higher, and the streets can become crowded. The low season falls in the winter months (January and February), which can be quite cool and rainy, and in hot August, when temperatures in some areas, especially Jericho, can be extremely high.

The culture of Palestine is deeply rooted in traditions of hospitality. It is considered an honor to host a guest, and you will almost certainly be offered a cup of strong cardamom coffee or fragrant tea. Politeness and respect are important when communicating: greetings are usually accompanied by a handshake, and restraint and attentiveness to the interlocutor are valued in conversation.

Special attention should be paid to appearance when visiting religious sites and conservative areas. It is recommended to choose modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees to show respect for local customs. In daily life, Palestinians greatly value family ties, so many holidays and meals take place among numerous relatives, turning into vibrant and lively events with an abundance of traditional dishes.

Entertainment in Palestine is closely linked to its rich culture and natural features. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate hiking routes like the Abraham Path, which winds through picturesque valleys and traditional villages, allowing travelers to enjoy the landscapes and rural life. For those who prefer cultural activities, folk music and dabke dance festivals are regularly held in major cities, while local galleries showcase contemporary Palestinian art.

Shopping here is a pleasure in itself. Traditional markets (souks) offer unique souvenirs: olive wood carvings, famous Hebron ceramics, handmade embroidery, and natural olive oil soap from Nablus. Family vacations can include visits to parks and interactive museums that tell the history of the region in an accessible and engaging way.

Planning a trip? Excellent! To ensure the financial aspects of your journey do not come as a surprise, it is important to remember that currency rates are constantly changing. Therefore, we strongly advise monitoring the latest rates, both before you depart and throughout your trip. You can use the data provided below for this purpose — we monitor currency rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most current information.