Bethlehem

Overview

Bethlehem is a historic city known as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. It is a significant religious and cultural site for Christians, Muslims, and Jews.

Birthplace of Jesus Christ and a significant religious and cultural site.

Religious Site Cultural Site

Location

Address

Bethlehem, West Bank

Neighborhood: Center

Coordinates

31.705298, 35.203641

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM (closed in the afternoon)

saturday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free (Church of the Nativity), $5-$10 (other sites)

Children

Free (under 12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

Full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild and pleasant

• Spring flowers
• Mild temperatures

summer

Hot and humid

• Extended visiting hours

autumn

Cool and pleasant

• Fall colors
• Cooler temperatures

winter

Cold and rainy

• Christmas decorations and lights
• Religious celebrations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead during peak season
Bring ID
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID or passport Water bottle Comfortable walking shoes Tickets if booked online

seasonal

Jacket or umbrella (winter) Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to moderate (some walking and stairs)

• Stay hydrated
• Sun protection

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash (shekels or USD), Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard)

Currency

New Israeli Shekel (NIS) or USD

Typical Costs

entry Free (Church of the Nativity)

parking $5

food $10-$20

souvenirs $5-$50

Dress Code

Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered for religious sites), Comfortable walking shoes, Walking shoes or sandals, Revealing clothing, Inappropriate attire for religious sites

Booking Tips

• At least 1-2 weeks for peak season
• Official website or authorized tour operators
• 48 hours in advance for refund
• Available for online tickets

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Bethlehem Guide

Size: 35 MB

Features: Map of the city, Audio guide for historical sites, Tickets and booking information, Local events and festivals

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes and restaurants

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafes and restaurants

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)

Distance: 60 km

Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

taxi

$80-$100 1 hour 15 minutes

public_transport

$10-$15 2 hours

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

bus

$2-$3 20-30 minutes

taxi

$10-$15 10-15 minutes

shared_taxi_service

$5-$7 15-20 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Rich history, cultural significance, and community spirit

Historical Significance: Birthplace of Jesus Christ and a major religious and cultural site for centuries

Insider Tips

Visit the local markets for unique and affordable souvenirs
Try the local olive oil and za'atar
Explore the less-known historical sites and churches

Local Recommendations

• Try local Palestinian cuisine at a nearby restaurant
• Ask for a local guide for a more personalized experience
• Visit the local markets for unique souvenirs

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Marhaba

thank_you Shukran

where_is Wayn

how_much Kam

beautiful Helo

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: Arabic, English, Hebrew, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Manger Square

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Use the church as a backdrop

Result: Iconic Bethlehem shot

#Bethlehem #TravelPalestine #HolyLand

Church of the Nativity

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Capture the mosaics and architecture

Result: Historical and cultural shot

#ChurchOfTheNativity #HolyLand #Bethlehem

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Public spaces

prohibited areas Inside religious sites during services, Restricted areas

flash photography Not allowed inside religious sites

commercial photography Permit needed for commercial use

drone policy Prohibited without special permission

tripod policy Restricted inside religious sites

selfie sticks Allowed in outdoor areas

Nearby Attractions

Herodium National Park

Distance: 10 km

Walking: Not walkable, requires transportation

Type: Historical Site

Solomon's Pools

Distance: 5 km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: Natural Site

Bethlehem Museum

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 minutes

Type: Museum

Reviews

4.5

Based on 1,200 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Visit early in the morning"
"Hire a local guide for a better experience"
"Try the local food at the markets"

Contact Information

+972 2 274 2421

info@bethlehem-tourism.org

www.bethlehem-tourism.org

Social Media

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