From Tel Aviv/Ashdod or Jerusalem - Bethlehem Half Day Guided Private Tour

Jerusalem , Israel

From Tel Aviv/Ashdod or Jerusalem - Bethlehem Half Day Guided Private Tour

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(5 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

We will start our tour driving through the Judean hills to Bethlehem, The city of King David. Upon arrival, we will ride through the city and sight see the historic and 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 the Shepherd’s to announce the birth of Jesus Christ. then 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.

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

Available options

Private tour From Jerusalem

Hotel Pick up and Drop off: Pick up and Drop off from Jerusalem only , make sure there is parking for pick up<br/>Pickup included

Beth pick up and drop off

Beth pick up: Pick up anywhere in bethlehem and drop off back at your hotel in bethlehem only<br/>Pickup included

Pick up from Tel Aviv/Ashdod

Pick up from Tel Aviv/Ashdod: Hotel Pick up and Drop off From Tel Aviv/Ashdod or Jerusalem <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Licensed Tour Guide Nativity Church Only

Air-conditioned vehicle

Tour Taxes

Detailed itinerary

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.

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.

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.

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.

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".

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.

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.

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.

Pass By Olive Wood Factory

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

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

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

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4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

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 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