Bethlehem Private Half Day Tour
Active
3h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a deeply personal journey through Bethlehem, guided by faith and history. Begin at Manger Square, the vibrant heart of the city, and walk the Way of the Star, the path believed to have led the Magi to the birthplace of Christ. Visit the Church of the Nativity, where tradition holds that Jesus was born, and step into the peaceful St. Catherine’s Church, home to Christmas Eve Mass. Continue to the serene Milk Grotto Church, a site of prayer and miracles for centuries.
Along the way, enjoy a stop at a local handmade craft shop, where artisans create beautiful olive wood carvings and other treasures that reflect Bethlehem’s spiritual heritage. With a private tour, you’ll enjoy a richer, more intimate experience—free from crowds, full of meaning, and tailored to your pace and interests. Let Bethlehem touch your soul in a way that only a private journey can.
Available options
4 PAX private tour
Taxi<br/>Pickup included
2 PAX private tour
Regular taxi<br/>Pickup included
6 PAX private tour
Van<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
A visit to local souvenir store as part of the partnership
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guide in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Arabic, Greek, Russian
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Church of the Nativity is one of the oldest working churches in existence today. The first Church was built by the Roman Emperor Constantine in the 4th century AD, over the grotto where Mary gave birth to Jesus.
Inside the grotto of the Nativity Church there are fourteen point silver stars that mark the exact spot of Jesus’ birth. An inscription on the star states: Hic de Virgin Maria Jesus Christus Natus Est – meaning “Here Jesus Christ was born to the Virgin Mary.”
2
Stop 2
Adjacent to the Church of the Nativity, St. Catherine’s Church is a peaceful, beautifully kept Catholic sanctuary. Known for its elegant arches and stained-glass windows, it’s where the midnight Christmas Mass is held each year. Beneath the church, ancient grottoes and chapels offer a quiet glimpse into early Christian devotion.
3
Stop 3
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Bethlehem, the Milk Grotto Church is a serene, white-stone chapel built over a sacred cave. Tradition says the Holy Family stopped here during their flight to Egypt, and a drop of Mary’s milk turned the stone white. A place of prayer and hope, it’s especially cherished by those seeking blessings for fertility and motherhood.
4
Manger Square is a lively plaza framed by historic stone buildings, bustling cafés, and souvenir shops. At its center, the Church of the Nativity stands with its ancient façade and humble entrance, drawing pilgrims year-round. You'll see priests, tourists, and locals mingling, with church bells ringing and doves fluttering overhead — a scene rich in history and everyday life.
What's not included
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
DE
RU
EL
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Our Taxi with an English speaking driver will pick you up from any given hotel in the region of Jerusalem.
Important notes
We will be in touch by Phone, Email or Whatsapp in order to schedule and fine-tune the
details of your tour including the meeting with your guide.
About Jerusalem
Jerusalem is a city of immense historical and religious significance, home to sacred sites for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Its ancient streets, diverse cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere make it a unique and captivating destination for travelers from around the world.
Top Attractions
Western Wall
The Western Wall, or Wailing Wall, is one of the most sacred sites in Judaism. It is a remnant of the Second Jewish Temple and a place of prayer and pilgrimage.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
This church is believed to be the site of Jesus' crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. It is a major pilgrimage site for Christians.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Dome of the Rock
The Dome of the Rock is an iconic Islamic shrine located on the Temple Mount. It is renowned for its stunning architecture and golden dome.
Religious
1 hour
Free
Tower of David
The Tower of David is an ancient citadel that offers panoramic views of Jerusalem and houses a museum with exhibits on the city's history.
Historical
1-2 hours
45 ILS
Mahane Yehuda Market
This bustling market is a hub of activity, offering a variety of food, spices, and goods. It's a great place to experience local culture and cuisine.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to browse, prices vary for food and goods
Must-Try Local Dishes
Falafel
Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices, typically served in pita bread with salad and sauces.
Snack
Vegetarian, can be vegan if no eggs are used.
Hummus
A creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, often served with pita bread.
Appetizer
Vegetarian, can be vegan.
Shawarma
Marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb) roasted on a spit and sliced into thin pieces, served in pita bread with vegetables and sauces.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat, can be made with chicken or lamb.
Sabich
A pita sandwich filled with fried eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, hummus, and various salads and sauces.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian, can be vegan if eggs are omitted.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Judean Desert
Cycling through the city
Spa treatments at the Dead Sea
Strolling through the Old City
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending cultural festivals and events
Floating in the Dead Sea
Visiting during winter for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with various cultural events and festivals.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Hebrew
- Widely spoken: Arabic, English
- English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
Currency
New Israeli Shekel (ILS)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (GMT+3 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution
Jerusalem is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to stay informed about the current political and security situation. Exercise caution in certain areas, especially near the borders and in predominantly Palestinian neighborhoods.
Important Precautions:
- • Stay informed about the current political and security situation
- • Avoid areas with ongoing conflicts or protests
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Getting there
By air
- Ben Gurion Airport • 45 km from city center
By train
Jerusalem Central Station
By bus
Central Bus Station, International Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Jerusalem, covering most areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Gett, Moovit
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old City
East Jerusalem
West Jerusalem
Day trips
Dead Sea
50 km from Jerusalem • Full day
The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth and offers a unique experience of floating in its highly saline waters. It's also known for its therapeutic mud and mineral-rich waters.
Bethlehem
10 km from Jerusalem • Half day to full day
Bethlehem is a historic city known as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. It's home to the Church of the Nativity and other significant religious sites.
Masada
60 km from Jerusalem • Full day
Masada is an ancient fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Judean Desert. It's known for its dramatic history and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Festivals
Jerusalem Film Festival • July
Succot (Feast of Tabernacles) • September/October (varies by year)
Jerusalem Pride • June
Pro tips
- Visit the Old City early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
- Try local street food and specialties, such as falafel, hummus, and shawarma, for an authentic culinary experience
- Use the 'Rav-Kav' smart card for discounted fares on public transportation
- Be respectful of religious customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites
- Stay informed about the current political and security situation, and avoid areas with ongoing conflicts or protests
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
