Bethlehem, Mar Saba, Mount of Temptation and Saint George Monastery Private Tour
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Bethlehem, Mar Saba, Mount of Temptation and Saint George Monastery Private Tour

Active
(2 reviews)
8h - 11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A guided tour of the oldest church in the world is provided as well as Saint Catherine's church and The Church of Milk Grotto.  Then we continue our trip to Beit Sahour the city of The Shepherd's. Beit sahour is one of the highest cities in christian population. We will explore the daily lives of the locals and visit The Chapel of The Shepherd's where the angles first announced the birth of Jesus.

Mar Saba Monastery dates back to the fifth century. Founded by Saint Sabas, it's been extensively expanded and fortified over the years.

Lastly we will go to The Mount of Temptation & Saint George Monastery. As mentioned in the gospels the Holy Spirit led Jesus into the desert.s. The summit of the mount, about 360 meters above sea level, offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea and the mountains of Moab and Gilead.

* 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 Tel Aviv

Pick up from tel Aviv

Pick up from Jerusalem

Pick up from Jerusalem: Pick up from your Hotel/Location in Jerusalem and Drop off anywhere in Jerusalem

What's included

Licensed Tour Guide in Bethlehem City - other places Driver Only
Air-conditioned vehicle
Tour Taxes

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The Church of St. 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.ne is located on the remains of St .

2

The Nativity Church in Bethlehem old City

3

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.

4

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".

5
Stop 5

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.

6
Stop 6

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.

7

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.

8

Visit to Saint George Monastery

9

The Mount of Temptation is located about 3km north-west of Jericho which is about 58km east of Jerusalem, Israel. The mountain is in the Judean Desert and overlooks the Jordan Valley. After being baptized by John the Baptist Jesus retreated to the wilderness to meditate and fast, this mountain on which Jesus is believed to have spent the 40 days and 40 nights of spiritual contemplation.

You can choose to take the cable car provided and have a look at the city.

10
Stop 10

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.

11

Pass By Olive Wood Factory

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

Mar Saba Monastery dates back to the fifth century. Founded by Saint Sabas, it's been extensively expanded and fortified over the years. Please note that women are not allowed to enter the monastery. Everyone will enjoy a panoramic view of the site.

14

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.

What's not included

Visit down to The Nativity Cave is not always possible

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0

Important information

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
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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

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