Palestine is a mecca for tourists, who admire the history of human civilizations and a unique combination of ancient epochs with the present-day way of life. Its most visited tourist centers are Hebron and Bethlehem.

Hebron is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its Arabic name means 'a friend of God.' Hebron is associated with the name of Abraham, and is a holy city for the Jews, Christians and Muslims. The city is located south of Jerusalem at the altitude of 1,000 meters above sea level. Particularly attractive for tourists are the narrow, winding streets of the old town, a lot of ancient stone buildings and temples. El Haram is the main shrine of Hebron, reminiscent of the fortress building, erected over the cave of Machpelah, in which both Jews and Arabs are praying separately. Modern Hebron is mainly located to the south of the West Bank. It is a significant commercial and cultural center of southern Judah in the region. In the late nineties, the city came under Palestinian self-rule, except for a small Jewish quarter, which is still controlled by the Israeli army.

Bethlehem is situated at the altitude of 955 meters above sea level on the ancient caravan route, 10 kilometers south of Jerusalem. Surrounded by hills, it stretches eastwards to the Judean Desert. The walls of the city offer stunning views of the ancient landscape, covered with vineyards, olive trees, and small historic villages. The very name of Bethlehem conjures up images of baby Jesus, Virgin Maria, and the three Magi who brought gifts to the baby. As the place of birth of the Son of God, Bethlehem is more important to Christians than any other place on earth. This small town, whose history goes back for thousands of years, had a great influence on the course of the world history.

Modern Bethlehem is one of the main centers of the Palestinian tourism. Every year thousands of pilgrims seek to worship its relics, many connoisseurs of antiquity admire its palaces and temples. But the true charm of Bethlehem opens in its narrow lanes, away from the places of pilgrimage and squares. Only in the market, you can fully enjoy the true flavor of the east. The city and the market is a bizarre connection to the ancient tradition and modern way of life of Muslims and Christians.

Bethlehem has long been famous for its craftsmen, wood-carvers, who turn olive boards in works of art. Basically they made objects of worship and adorned with jewels. For the first time, these unique items were presented at the International Fair in New York in 1852. After that, the city began mass production of souvenirs, imitating religious items.

A very famous atttraction in Bethlehem is Basilica of the Nativity. Jesus, as Holy Scripture testifies, was born in a cave that was used as a temporary shelter. Later, Emperor Constantine the Great ordered to build the Basilica of the Nativity in 332. Only a small part of the mosaic floor and the supporting elements of the church have survived. There still remain fragments of ancient frescoes and mosaics. But the most important place of the temple is Cave Birth. The place of birth is indicated by a silver star in the sky.

Beit Sahour is the place where an angel, a messenger of God, appeared to the shepherds with the good news of Jesus' birth, followed by a set of heavenly signs. The Monastery of St. Elias is reminiscent of a Greek fortress monastery founded in the VI century AD. From the monastery, there is a magnificent view of Jerusalem and Bethlehem.

Herodium fortress has an amazing magnificent view over the Dead Sea. The palace astonishes with its grandeur and splendor. The eye catches the whole city, including apartments, fountains and gardens. At the foot of the hill you can see the ruins of a huge swimming pool and various administrative buildings.

Visiting Palestine needs involvement of a travel professional. See the list of Palestine travel agencies or tour operators in Palestine.