After two difficult years during which tourism in Nazareth almost disappeared—both from abroad and within Israel—the city is trying to recover. The streets, once full of visitor groups, busy cafes, and holiday tours, have thinned significantly, and local businesses are still waiting for a real recovery. Now, with the opening of the Christmas season, Nazareth hopes to regain some of the lost magic. As part of the effort to revive tourism in the Galilee during its busiest traditional period, the Ramada Olivia Hotel is launching special packages and joining the celebrations in the Old City—from the Christmas tree lighting ceremony to food and cultural workshops aimed at attracting visitors again.
The hotel, overlooking Nazareth’s Old City, is decorated with Christmas trees, thousands of colorful lights, and festive ornaments. During December, various events will take place, including the Christmas tree lighting ceremony on December 16, featuring a performance by the Latin Scouts Flute Band of Nazareth, and belly dance shows at Bar Sultana on several dates.
Packages and Prices
The Christmas package (December 14–20) is offered at NIS 2,780 per couple for 2 nights on a half-board basis. The hotel also offers a 25% discount on the second night, so a midweek package for a couple including breakfast costs NIS 1,499 for 2 nights, and a weekend package costs NIS 1,796. Children stay free in the parents’ room.
As part of the packages, workshops will include knafeh making, cooking, candle and soap crafting, and a Christmas cookie workshop.
The hotel includes the Locanda chef’s restaurant with Mediterranean Nazareth cuisine, a hydroponic farm growing vegetables and herbs, a spa area with a heated pool, and a jacuzzi.
The initiative is part of the effort to boost tourism in Nazareth and the Galilee during the holiday season, a period that traditionally attracts both foreign and local tourists to the area.