Gaza Strip Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, eat, and buy souvenirs in Gaza Strip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Gaza Strip

Gaza Strip is a small coastal enclave located in Palestinian territories, in the Middle East of Asia. It is surrounded by Israel to the north, east, and west, and by the Mediterranean Sea to the south. The city is one of the most historic and religiously significant places in the world, with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Gaza Strip

If you are planning to visit Gaza Strip, you must explore the following culturally important and natural sites:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Gaza Strip is a hub of history and culture, offering a plethora of museums and historical places. The below-listed places are a must-visit:

  • Al-Mathaf Al-Misri Museum: It showcases the cultural and archeological heritage of Gaza Strip with a wide range of exhibits including pottery, coins, and relics.
  • Saint Porphyrios Monastery: A historic Christian monastery built in the 4th century located in the center of the city.
  • The Great Mosque of Gaza: A historic mosque built way back in the 7th century that is considered to be one of the oldest mosques in Gaza Strip.
  • Al-Sultan Hassan Mosque: A beautiful mosque adorned with ornate tile-work and intricate architecture.

Natural Attractions of Gaza Strip: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Apart from its cultural heritage sites, Gaza Strip has plenty of natural attractions to explore. Some of the best natural attractions include:

  • Gaza Seaport: The picturesque seaport of Gaza Strip is a perfect place to enjoy the natural beauty of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Beach Resorts: There are several beach resorts in Gaza Strip that offer scenic views of the sea and coastal breezes.
  • Gaza Zoo: The Zoo showcases a wide range of exotic animals like lions, tigers, chimpanzees, and much more.
  • Al Makkeh Reserve: It is a nature reserve that serves as a habitat to a wide array of flora and fauna species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gaza Strip

Gaza Strip offers a perfect venue for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the popular routes you could explore include:

  • Beit Hanoun to Rafah: It is a 70 km stretch of coastline road that offers scenic views of the sea.
  • Al-Muntar to Rafah: A 50-kilometer cycling trip via Gaza city which boasts of breathtaking views of the city.
  • Khan Younis - Al-Amal School: This is an off-road cycling route that takes you through the rural countryside.

Best Things to Do in Gaza Strip: Activities and Tours

Gaza Strip offers a multitude of activities and tours that you should not miss out on:

  • Try the Famous Gaza Shawarma: Gaza Shawarma is a local delicacy made of tender chicken or beef, and seasonings.
  • Visit Hisham’s Palace: A historic landmark that dates back to the Umayyad period located in the western part of Gaza.
  • Explore the City in a Horse-Drawn Carriage: A popular way to explore the city’s historic sites and landmarks.
  • Take part in the local Flora and Fauna safari: The safari includes bird watching and exploring the natural habitat of the local fauna.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gaza Strip

If you have a week to spend exploring Gaza Strip, you could follow this itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival and check into hotel
Day 2 Visit Al-Mathaf Al-Misri Museum and Hisham’s Palace
Day 3 Explore the Gaza Seaport and take a boat ride
Day 4 Visit Saint Porphyrios Monastery and Al-Muntar
Day 5 Take part in the local Flora and Fauna safari
Day 6 Explore the Great Mosque of Gaza and Al-Sultan Hassan Mosque
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Gaza Strip

Gaza Strip offers a wide range of delicious food and beverages, some of which are:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maqluba: A tasty rice and vegetable dish that is a staple food in Gaza Strip.
  • Musakhan: A traditional Palestinian chicken dish that is baked with onions and sumac.

Local Beverages

  • Qishr: A traditional hot drink made by boiling coffee husks, cinnamon, sugar, and ginger.
  • Tamarind Juice: A refreshing drink made by boiling tamarind juice and adding sugar and water.

Where to Stay in Gaza Strip: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gaza Strip offers a wide range of accommodation options for all types of travelers, some of the best places to stay include:

  • Al-Quds Hotel: A four-star hotel located in the city center.
  • Al-Ghutch Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located in the Khan Younis area.
  • Dar Al-Hossoun Guesthouse: A luxury guesthouse located in the city center.

What to Buy in Gaza Strip: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Gaza Strip offers a wide range of shopping options that offer souvenirs and local products you can take back home. Some of the best places to shop include:

  • Palestinian Gowns: Palestinian gowns are beautiful hand-embroidered gowns that are a must-buy.
  • Olive Oil Soap: Gaza Strip is known for its famous olive oil soap that has been made for centuries.
  • Handmade Pottery: The local artisans of Gaza Strip create beautiful handmade pottery and ceramic items.

Local Culture and Customs of Gaza Strip

When visiting Gaza Strip, it is important to understand the local culture and customs. Some of the notable ones include:

  • Dress Code: Gaza Strip is a conservative Muslim society, so it is recommended to dress modestly when visiting.
  • Meal Times: The traditional meal times in Gaza Strip are late in the evening and after sunset during the holy month of Ramadan.
  • Hospitality: Palestinians are known for their hospitality, and you will find this warmth in the locals that you will interact with.

Best Time to Visit Gaza Strip

The best time to visit Gaza Strip is during the winter season (December to March) when the temperature is mild and pleasant. The summer months (June to September) can be incredibly hot and humid, making it difficult to explore the city.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gaza Strip

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respect local customs.
  • Learn the basic Arabic phrases to communicate with the locals.
  • Take the necessary vaccines before visiting Gaza.

Don’t:

  • Do not photograph military and police structures and personnel.
  • Do not show disrespect towards religion and culture.
  • Do not carry large sums of cash or valuables on the streets.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gaza Strip

Gaza Strip suffers from political instability, and visitors should exercise caution and stay away from the areas of conflict.

Health in Gaza Strip

Gaza Strip has a robust healthcare system, but visitors should take the necessary vaccinations before visiting the area due to the high risk of infectious diseases.

Getting to Gaza Strip: Transportation Options and Logistics

The easiest way to reach Gaza Strip is by taking a connecting flight via Tel Aviv or Cairo.

Airports Near Gaza Strip

  • Eilat Airport: located in Eilat, Israel, is the closest airport to Gaza Strip.

Bus Stations Near Gaza Strip

  • Egged Bus Station: located in Tel Aviv, Israel, which operates buses to Gaza Strip.

Other Options

  • Taxis and shared/chartered vehicles are available from the nearby cities to reach Gaza Strip.

How to Get Around in Gaza Strip

Gaza Strip has a well-developed transportation system that includes buses, taxis, and shared minivans for easy access to popular tourist destinations.

Where to Go Next from Gaza Strip: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re interested in exploring nearby destinations after visiting Gaza Strip, consider the following:

  • Jerusalem: The holy city of Jerusalem is a must-visit place for the faithful, and it’s just over 70 miles from Gaza Strip.
  • The Dead Sea: Just a few hours away from Gaza Strip, you can explore the world-famous Dead Sea and take a relaxing dip in its mineral-rich waters.

Conclusion

Gaza Strip is a city with an ancient history, rich culture, and breathtaking natural beauty that should be on everyone’s travel list. Whether you’re interested in culturally significant museums or outdoor adventures, Gaza Strip has something to offer every type of traveler. From its must-see attractions to its culinary delights, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in this unique travel destination.

Gaza Strip Gaza Strip Palestinian workers wait at the Erez Crossing, expect major hassles and long waiting times. Palestinian workers wait at the Erez Crossing, expect major hassles and long waiting times. The Grand Omari Mosque of Gaza. The Grand Omari Mosque of Gaza. Street market with vegetables and fruit for sale Street market with vegetables and fruit for sale Sea view from Al Deira hotel Sea view from Al Deira hotel