Things To Do
in Nāblus

Nāblus, located in the West Bank, is a city rich in history and culture, known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant markets. It is nestled between two mountains, Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim, providing stunning views. The city is famous for its traditional Palestinian cuisine and the production of olive oil and soap.

Nāblus has a diverse population that reflects its long and complex history, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the ancient Jacob's Well, a site of historical significance, followed by a stroll through the Old City to admire its traditional architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the bustling Al-Ain Market, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for handmade crafts. Visit the Nablus Soap Factory to learn about the traditional soap-making process.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying the famous Nabulsi Kunafa for dessert, and take a peaceful evening walk along the city streets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Hike up Mount Ebal for panoramic views of Nāblus and the surrounding landscape, a perfect way to start the day.

afternoon
:

Visit the Palestinian Heritage Center to learn about local culture and history, followed by lunch at a café nearby.

evening
:

End your trip with a visit to Mount Gerizim, where you can enjoy a beautiful sunset and discover the Samaritan community.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚌Public transport fare$1
🛍️Souvenir shopping$5
🍎Fresh fruit$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious traditional cuisine
  • Friendly and hospitable locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Potential political tensions
  • Language barrier for non-Arabic speakers
  • "مرحباً" - Hello
  • "شكراً" - Thank you
  • "من فضلك" - Please
  • "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "نعم" - Yes

Places to Visit in Nāblus

Visit one of these nice places.

Jacob's Well

A historical site with beautiful stone architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Nāblus.

Mount Ebal

Offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains, ideal for landscape photography.

Al-Ain Market

The bustling market is filled with vibrant colors and lively scenes, perfect for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nāblus

Nāblus is a culinary delight, offering a variety of traditional dishes that reflect its rich cultural heritage.

Nāblus Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kunafa

A sweet pastry made with thin noodle-like dough soaked in syrup and layered with cheese or cream, a must-try dessert.

Must-Try!

Musakhan

A traditional Palestinian dish of roasted chicken on flatbread, seasoned with sumac and served with fried onions.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Al-Ain Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors offering local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nāblus experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Average summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures may drop to around 5°C (41°F). Rainfall occurs mostly between November and March, with the driest months being July and August.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially in religious sites, to respect local customs.

Greeting

A friendly handshake is common, but wait for a woman to extend her hand first.

Hospitality

Always accept offers of tea or coffee as a sign of respect and friendship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nāblus is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to stay informed about local news and avoid demonstrations. Always respect local customs and laws, and remain cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Nāblus

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or adding 10-15% is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, credit cards are accepted in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

It can get hot, so plan indoor activities during the peak heat hours and stay hydrated.

Fall

Mild temperatures and beautiful autumn colors make it a great time for hiking and exploring.

Winter

Winter can be cool and rainy; pack warm clothing and prepare for occasional downpours.

Nightlife Guide

Nāblus at Night

Nāblus offers a modest nightlife scene with various cafes and restaurants that stay open late. While bars are limited, you can find places offering shisha (water pipes) and live music in some venues. The atmosphere is generally relaxed, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Nāblus

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Ebal Trail

A scenic hike that provides breathtaking views of Nāblus and the surrounding area, ideal for nature lovers.

Mount Gerizim Trail

This trail offers insights into the Samaritan community and stunning views, making it a culturally enriching experience.

Airports

How to reach Nāblus by plane.

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)

Located about 75 km from Nāblus, it is the main international airport serving the region, offering connections to major cities worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nāblus is quite walkable, especially in the Old City where many attractions, markets, and restaurants are located within close proximity. The narrow streets and alleys add to the charm but can be challenging for those with mobility issues. However, walking is the best way to experience the local culture and interact with residents.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Palestinian Arabs

The majority of the population in Nāblus, they maintain a rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Samaritans

A small community living primarily on Mount Gerizim, they have distinct cultural and religious practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Nāblus, with local teams and community matches being a significant part of life.

Basketball

Basketball is also popular among the youth, with many schools and community centers hosting games and training.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nāblus can be congested, particularly during peak hours. Public transportation options include shared taxis (servees) and buses, which are affordable and commonly used by locals. Walking is a viable option for short distances, and taxis are available for longer trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nāblus.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

There are many vegetarian options available, particularly in the form of salads, dips, and pastries.

Halal

All food served in local restaurants is Halal, adhering to Islamic dietary laws.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Nāblus is available through several hospitals and clinics, with both public and private options. Emergency services may take time to respond, so it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical needs while abroad. It is wise to familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest medical facility.

Discover West Bank

Read more in our West Bank 2025 Travel Guide.

West Bank Travel Guide