Things To Do
in Khān Yūnis

Khān Yūnis is a city located in the southern Gaza Strip, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. It serves as a significant urban center, with a population that reflects a diverse mix of traditions and lifestyles. The city is surrounded by agricultural lands and features a bustling marketplace, where locals and visitors alike engage in daily life.

Khān Yūnis is also close to beautiful Mediterranean beaches, offering both relaxation and exploration opportunities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Khān Yūnis market, where you can experience local culture and shop for fresh produce and traditional goods.

afternoon
:

Visit the ancient ruins of Khan Yunis, where you can explore the remnants of historical structures that date back to the Roman era.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll along the beachfront to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of the most important religious sites in the area, to appreciate its architecture and significance.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of local art galleries or cultural centers to learn about the contemporary art scene in Gaza.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional café and enjoy local music or poetry readings, immersing yourself in the artistic vibe of the city.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5-10
Coffee$1-2
🚖Taxi ride within the city$2-5
🍏Fresh fruit (1 kg)$1-2
🛒Groceries (weekly)$20-30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine with ample vegetarian options.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Potential safety concerns require vigilance.
  • Restrictions on travel may apply due to the political situation.
  • "مرحبا" - Hello
  • "شكرا" - Thank you
  • "من فضلك" - Please
  • "نعم" - Yes
  • "لا" - No

Places to Visit in Khān Yūnis

Visit one of these nice places.

Khan Yunis Ruins

A historical site perfect for capturing ancient architecture and the surrounding landscape.

Mediterranean Coastline

The beach provides stunning sunset views and vibrant coastal life.

Al-Aqsa Mosque

An iconic site with beautiful architecture, ideal for cultural and religious photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Khān Yūnis

Khān Yūnis offers a delightful array of flavors that reflect the rich culinary heritage of the region. From traditional dishes to street food, there’s something for every palate.

Khān Yūnis Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Maqluba

A traditional Palestinian dish made with rice, vegetables, and meat, all cooked together and flipped upside down to serve.

Must-Try!

Falafel

Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, often served in pita bread with salad and tahini.

Knafeh

A sweet dessert made of thin noodle-like pastry soaked in syrup and layered with cheese or cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Khān Yūnis Souk

A bustling market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and local snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering quick bites, including shawarma, kebabs, and fresh juices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Khān Yūnis experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winter averages around 15°C (59°F). The rainy season typically occurs from November to March, bringing moderate rainfall. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Religion

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and follow local customs.

Hospitality

Expect to be offered coffee or tea; it's polite to accept as a sign of respect.

Greetings

A handshake is common; men should wait for women to extend their hand first.

Safety Guide

Safety

Visitors should remain aware of their surroundings and follow local news for any updates on safety. While Khān Yūnis can be a safe place for tourists, it is advisable to avoid political demonstrations and to stay in well-populated areas, especially at night.

Tipping in Khān Yūnis

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% for good service.

Cash Payments

Cash is widely used; ensure you have local currency (Israeli Shekel) as credit card acceptance can be limited.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures make it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring historical sites.

Summer

Hot and dry, great for beach activities but be prepared for high temperatures.

Autumn

Pleasant weather suitable for sightseeing and enjoying local festivals.

Winter

Cooler temperatures and occasional rain; a good time for indoor cultural experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Khān Yūnis at Night

Khān Yūnis offers a modest nightlife scene, primarily centered around cafes and restaurants. Many locals gather in the evenings to socialize over coffee or tea, with some venues hosting live music or cultural events. While bars are limited, you can find vibrant gatherings in public spaces, especially during festive seasons.

Hiking in Khān Yūnis

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rafah Hills Trail

A scenic hiking trail offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Mediterranean Sea.

Gaza Nature Reserve

A walking trail through diverse flora and fauna, providing a peaceful escape from the city.

Airports

How to reach Khān Yūnis by plane.

Gaza International Airport

Located approximately 20 km from Khān Yūnis, this airport has limited commercial flights and is primarily used for humanitarian purposes.

Getting Around

Walkability

Khān Yūnis is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where shops, markets, and restaurants are located close together. The flat terrain makes it easy to navigate on foot, and pedestrian pathways are available. However, be mindful of traffic and local driving habits.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Palestinians

The majority demographic group, with a rich cultural heritage and strong community ties.

Refugees

A significant portion of the population consists of refugees from previous conflicts, shaping the city's social and cultural landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in Khān Yūnis, with many local teams and passionate fans.

Basketball

Gaining popularity, especially among the youth, with various local leagues and tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Khān Yūnis can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include shared taxis and buses, which are commonly used by locals. It's advisable to check local traffic conditions before traveling, as road conditions may vary.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Khān Yūnis.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes, such as falafel and various salads, cater to vegetarians.

Halal Meals

Most food establishments offer halal food, aligning with local dietary laws.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Khān Yūnis includes several clinics and hospitals; however, facilities may be limited compared to larger cities. Emergency services can be accessed, but serious medical issues might require transfer to hospitals in other parts of Gaza or Israel. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical evacuation if necessary.

Discover Gaza Strip

Read more in our Gaza Strip 2025 Travel Guide.

Gaza Strip Travel Guide