DEHUROEN

Plizio Visual Lab

Old City of Ramallah

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
—°6
Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)

Weather…

The Old City of Ramallah serves as the historic soul of a city that has become the modern political and economic hub of Palestine. This district is defined by its beautiful Ottoman-era stone masonry, featuring traditional houses with thick walls and arched doorways dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, many of these restored buildings have been repurposed into trendy cafes, boutique art galleries, and cultural centers, blending historical charm with contemporary life. At its edge lies the iconic Al-Manara Square, famous for its lion statues, which acts as the geographical and social heart of the city. While the rest of Ramallah is known for its rapid development, the Old City retains the atmosphere of a traditional Levantine town. It is a vital center for the Palestinian arts scene and nightlife, offering a unique space where history, activism, and creativity intersect, making it for those looking to understand the dynamic nature of modern Palestinian society.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C111215182225272726231814
Rain mm8862372151102144683

📋 Practical info

🚪
Visiting
The Old City of Ramallah preserves many Ottoman stone houses and serves as a bustling cultural hub. Visitors can stroll the narrow streets, visit galleries and cafes, and explore the central Manara Square. The Old City is freely accessible.
🕒
Typical hours
The Old City has no fixed opening hours; shops and galleries typically open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Sunday may have reduced offerings. Evenings see many restaurants and bars open.
📷
Photography
Photography is allowed everywhere in the Old City. In galleries and shops, ask permission beforehand. The stone houses and colorful street life offer great subjects.
⏱️
Time needed
Allow about one to two hours for a stroll through the Old City. The many cafes invite lingering. Art lovers may spend longer.
➕
Combine with
Combine the visit with the Cultural Palace and the Yasser Arafat Museum. Modern Ramallah with its shopping streets is within walking distance. Nearby are Birzeit village and the university.
🧭
Getting there
Ramallah's Old City is centrally located, easily reached on foot from the bus station or main streets. Taxis are cheap and take you directly into the old town. Parking is limited.
💡
Insider tip
Visit the Old City in the late afternoon when the light is beautiful and cafes invite lingering. Try local specialties in small restaurants. Look out for cultural events.

Geography

Population
43,880 (2025)
Coordinates
31.90220, 35.19780

Facts

  • Founded in the 16th century by the Haddadin family
  • Home to Dar al-Zahran, a heritage house over 250 years old
  • Famous for its traditional 'Hosh' courtyard housing complexes
  • Architecture showcases distinctive Levantine stonework
  • Center for many local cultural festivals during the summer
  • Restoration efforts were led by the RIWAQ organization

Explore nearby

Notable places around

RamallahRamallah<1 km · NExplore →
Tell en-NasbehTell en-Nasbeh3 km · NWExplore →
BeituniaBeitunia3 km · SExplore →
BeitinBeitin5 km · NEExplore →
JalazoneJalazone5 km · NEExplore →
Birzeit Pharmaceutical CompanyBirzeit Pharmaceutical Company5 km · EExplore →
Birzeit University BuildingBirzeit University Building5 km · SEExplore →
Al-RamAl-Ram6 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Old City of Ramallah (6)

Design Edge Architects🌿 nature

A viewpoint located in the old city of Ramallah.

Dar Zahran Heritage Building🏛 museum

A heritage building and museum in Ramallah showcasing local history.

tawfiq lahlouh casa⛪ religious

A place of worship in the old city of Ramallah.

Rashed Al Hadadeen Church📍 landmark

A Christian church located in Ramallah.

Greek Orthodox Church📍 landmark

A Christian place of worship for the Greek Orthodox community in Ramallah.

Our Lady of the Annunciation📍 landmark

A Christian church located in Ramallah.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Ramallah a tourist destination?
It is more of a cultural and political hub.
Is there a nightlife?
Yes, Ramallah has lively cafes and restaurants.
How long do I need for the city?
One to two days are enough for the highlights.
Is it safe?
Generally safe, but always be vigilant.
What is the best season?
Spring and autumn offer the best weather.
Old City of Ramallah: where is it located?
Old City of Ramallah is located in Palestinian Territories.
Old City of Ramallah: what is there to see?
Highlights include Design Edge Architects, Dar Zahran Heritage Building, tawfiq lahlouh casa.
Old City of Ramallah: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Old City of Ramallah: why is it worth visiting?
The Old City of Ramallah serves as the historic soul of a city that has become the modern political and economic hub of Palestine.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Asia
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Asia
More places in Palestinian Territories →

Nearby cities

East Jerusalem — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
East Jerusalem
East Jerusalem includes the Old City and major religious sites such as the Dome of the Rock.
Nablus — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Nablus
Nablus is situated between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim and is famous for its traditional soap production.
Nablus Old City — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Nablus Old City
The Old City is famous for its historic market and traditional soap factories.
Ramallah — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Ramallah
Ramallah is the political and economic administrative center of the West Bank.
Al-Bireh — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Al-Bireh
Al-Bireh is adjacent to Ramallah, forming a continuous urban area.
Surif — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Surif
Surif is located in the northwestern Hebron Governorate near the Green Line.
Al-Ram — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Al-Ram
Al-Ram is located north of Jerusalem and is a busy commercial and residential area.
Halhul — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Halhul
Halhul is located north of Hebron on one of the highest points in the West Bank.
Jericho — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Jericho
Jericho is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, located deep below sea level.
Bani Na&#39;im — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Bani Na'im
Bani Na'im is located east of Hebron and is known as the 'City of Martyrs'.
Sa&#39;ir — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Sa'ir
Sa'ir is located northeast of Hebron in a deep valley.
Al-Eizariya — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Al-Eizariya
Al-Eizariya is historically known as Bethany and is located on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives.
Beit Jala — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Beit Jala
Beit Jala is a predominantly Christian town west of Bethlehem.
Beit Sahour — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Beit Sahour
Beit Sahour is located east of Bethlehem and is traditionally identified with the Shepherds' Fields of the biblical Nativity story.
Beitunia — Old City of Ramallah (Palestinian Territories)
Beitunia
Beitunia is adjacent to Ramallah to the west and is a major industrial and commercial hub.