Bethlehem Full Day Tour
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Bethlehem Full Day Tour

Active
(2 reviews)
7h - 11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We will start our tour driving through the Judean hills to Bethlehem. Upon arrival, we will ride through the city and see the important attractions before arriving to Manger Square. There we will have a guided visit to Church of The Nativity where Jesus was born in an underground cave that the church was built on.

Then we will take a short walk with the guide to the Church of Milk Grotto. After we finish we will ride to the town of Beit Sahour, the city of the Shepherd’s. There we will have a guided visit to the Chapel of the Shepherd’s Field where the angels appeared to announce the birth of Jesus Christ.

Continuing our tour we will have a 20 minute visit to a local olive wood factory and have an insight on the local crafts of the Christian families in Bethlehem. Lastly we will visit Mar Saba monestary and King Herod's Palace.

* Make Sure to bring your passport as it is required sometimes.
* Switch of vehicle is required, All times are approximate!

Available options

Pick Up from Jerusalem

Pick Up from Jerusalem: Pick up at 7:45 from David Citadel Hotel in Jerusalem, King David 7, Jerusalem, 9410119, Israel.

From Tel-Aviv

Pick Up from Tel-Aviv: Pick up takes place in at 6:30AM from Grand Beach Hotel, 250 HaYarkon St, Tel Aviv – Yafo. (Infront of The Hotel)<br/>Tel Aviv Option: contact us before booking tel aviv option and/or book before 24 hours at least

What's included

Licensed Tour Guide Nativity Church Only
Air-conditioned vehicle
Tour Taxes

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

A full guided tour to the Church of the Nativity. The Church 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. The church is located where Jesus was born in Bethlehem.

2
Stop 2

Saint Catherine’s Church is a Franciscan monastery. It is said to be built on the site of Christ’s appearance to St. Catherine of Alexandria and his prediction of her martyrdom at the beginning of the 4th century.

3
Stop 3

The Milk Grotto church is the place where the Holy Family found refuge during the Massacre of the Innocents, before they could flee to Egypt. The name is derived from the story that a "drop of milk" of the Virgin Mary fell on the floor of the cave and changed its color to white.

4

The Chapel of The Shepherd's Field.It marks the place where, the angels first announced the birth of Christ. The Shepherds' Field Chapel is a religious building of the Catholic church that is in the area of Beit Sahur southeast of Bethlehem in the West Bank in Palestine. The chapel marks the place where the angels first announced the birth of Christ.

5

This Greek Orthodox Monastery, Mar Saba Monastery, located only 15 km from Bethlehem, is named after Saint Saba (439-532 CE) who settled in a cave opposite the actual site of the Monastery, in complete seclusion that lasted 5 years.

Few of the Byzantine desert monasteries can match the serenity and beauty of this place. Clinging to the cliff face of the Kidron Valley, this immense and spectacular Church evokes a thrilling shock when it first comes into view in the midst of a desert landscape. The Monastery was built in 484 AD by 5000 monks, followers of St. Saba (Mar Saba in Arabic). The Monastery contains two churches - the first is dedicated to St. Nicolas and was built in 491 AD, and the second main church is dedicated to honor the Annunciation of the Mother of God in 502 AD.

The body of Saint Saba can be seen in the main church, while his tomb is paved in the courtyard outside.

Although Mar Saba is reputed for its hospitality to strangers, women have never been allowed to enter. Hence they can enjoy a glimpse of the chapel and building from a nearby two storey tower known as the Women’s Tower.

There are memorable hiking opportunities in the area surrounding Mar Saba.

6

Visit to the wonderful palace of King Herod's Palace. We will get the chance to learn more about the history of the place and enjoy the work of wonder.

7

These pools were a part of an ancient waterway supplying water to Jerusalem. They are attributed to the prosperous and wise King Solomon (950 BC) and may have been mentioned in the Book of Ecclesiastes 2.6, where Solomon says "I made myself pools from which to water the forest of growing trees"

8

The Nativity Church in Bethlehem old City

9

The Cave of Jerome is actually located beneath the Church of St. Catherine, and can also be accessed from there. St. Jerome, a Dalmation priest (345-420 A.D.), translated much of the Old Testament from Hebrew and Greek to the Latin "Vulgate".

10

The Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel does not have a single founder but was founded by a group of hermits living close to the “Spring of Elijah” on Mount Carmel, with two roots of their spirituality: the Prophet Elijah and the Virgin Mary. At the beginning of the 13th century the hermits received a rule of life, which was written by Saint Albert, Patriarch of Jerusalem.

11

Aida, also spelled 'Ayda, is a Palestinian refugee camp situated 2 kilometers north of the historic center of Bethlehem and 1 km north of Beit Jala.

12

Bab idDeir Art Gallery is an independent artistic and cultural space in Bethlehem, located in Deik quarters part of the historical old city of Bethlehem.

13

Pass By Olive Wood Factory

14

Rachel's Tomb is the site revered as the burial place of the matriarch Rachel.

15

The Bethlehem Museum is dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for Palestine's heritage, identity, culture and art.

What's not included

Lunch
Visit down to The Nativity Cave is not always possible
Entrance fee to Herodion National Park of 29NIS/Adult and 15NIS/Children is not included.
Tips
Herodion National Park

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
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1★
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Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Pick up at 7:45 from J David Citadel Hotel in Jerusalem, King David 7, Jerusalem, 9410119, Israel. (In front of the hotel).

About Bethlehem

Bethlehem, located in the West Bank, is a historic city renowned as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. It is a city rich in religious and cultural significance, offering visitors a unique blend of ancient history, vibrant markets, and spiritual sites.

Top Attractions

Church of the Nativity

This ancient basilica is built over the site traditionally considered to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major pilgrimage destination.

Religious 1-2 hours Free entry

Manger Square

The central square of Bethlehem, surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and cafes. It is a vibrant hub of activity and a great place to experience local culture.

Historical 30 minutes to a few hours Free

Herodion

A ancient fortress built by King Herod the Great. The site offers stunning views and a glimpse into the region's rich history.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mansaf

A traditional Palestinian dish made with lamb cooked in a fermented dried yoghurt sauce, served with rice and pine nuts.

Main dish Contains meat and dairy

Maqluba

A savory dish made with rice, vegetables, and meat, cooked and then flipped upside down before serving.

Main dish Can be made vegetarian

Knafeh

A sweet cheese pastry soaked in sugar syrup, topped with pistachios.

Dessert Contains dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking at Herodion Exploring historical sites Visiting local cafes Enjoying the vibrant markets Attending local festivals Visiting religious sites Visiting during Christmas season for festive atmosphere Experiencing traditional Palestinian hospitality

Best Time to Visit

March to May, October to November

These periods offer pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is also less crowded compared to the peak tourist seasons.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Arabic
  • Widely spoken: English, Hebrew
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

New Israeli Shekel (ILS)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Bethlehem is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of the political situation and security measures.

Important Precautions:
  • • Avoid political demonstrations
  • • Be cautious with valuables
  • • Stay informed about the current situation

Getting there

By air
  • Ben Gurion Airport • 60 km
By bus

Jerusalem Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are a common and affordable way to get around Bethlehem. They are frequent and cover most parts of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: No widely used apps, but taxis can be hailed on the street

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Old City New City

Day trips

Jericho
30 km • Half day to full day

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Jericho offers a wealth of historical sites and archaeological wonders.

Jerusalem
10 km • Full day

A city of immense historical and religious significance, Jerusalem offers a wealth of cultural and historical sites.

Festivals

Christmas Celebrations • December 24-25 Bethlehem Festival of Lights • December

Pro tips

  • Visit the Church of the Nativity early in the morning to avoid crowds
  • Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
  • Explore the Old City on foot to discover hidden gems and local culture
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
  • Carry cash for small vendors and markets as card acceptance can be limited
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 3
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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