Private Tour: Old City of Bethlehem and Herodium
Active
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the beauty of the Old City of Bethlehem on this day trip, walk along the narrow star street where Joseph and Mary walked when they came to Bethlehem. Get an incredible view of the landscape from top of Mount Herodium, Herod’s the Great roman palace. Learn about the history of the sites and the daily life from your local tour guide! Visit the Shepherd’s field, caves were used by the Shepherds 2000 years ago. Visit the Nativity Church, the birthplace of Jesus and the oldest church in the world still in daily use. By the end of the tour you will see Banksy Graffiti art.
Available options
Private Tour: Old City of Bethlehem and Herodium
What's included
Private tour
Local guide driver
Pickup from Checkpoint 300 or your hotel if in Bethlehem only
Drop-off at Checkpoint 300 or your hotel if in Bethlehem only
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your private guide driver at Bethlehem 300 Checkpoint and depart to the Old City of Bethlehem. Walk the narrow streets and enjoy the old architecture of the buildings from the Otoman period. Stop by Bethlehem Icon Center, which used to be a local house and today it’s a center teaching Byzantine Iconography. Walk the Star Street— the way that Joseph and Mary took when they came to Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus. Walk onward through the old city and stop the main old entrance of the city then to Hosh Al Syrian quarter, see the building from inside and stop for a cup of tea or Arabic coffee. Visit an old Olive Press museum and learn about olive harvest and olive oil production, the building which houses the museum dates back as far as the 19th century. It houses many ethnographic and archaeological artifacts featuring the entire process of oil production. Furthermore, the exhibit also shows the many uses for oil, such as lamps, medicine, food, soap, and even cosmetics.
2
You will have a nice lunch break at Afteem Restaurant for Falafel, Hummus and typical Salad lunch. (own expense).
3
Stop 3
After you purchase lunch, continue to Manger Square and visit the Nativity Church, the birthplace of Jesus and the oldest church in the world.
4
Drive to the Shepherd’s Field where the angel Gabriel appeared to the shepherds, see the ruins that goes back to the Byzantine time and the current church. Take a short drive to Mount Herodium, the palace of Herod the Great from the roman period 1st century BC. From the top of the mountain, enjoy a panorama view of the landscape of the area and from there you can see Jordan mountains and the Dead Sea.
5
Finally, visit Banksy Graffiti arts in Bethlehem, The Walled Off Hotel of Banksy and the separation wall.
After exploring all the sites, drive back to Bethlehem 300 Checkpoint to return to your hotel.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Transfer from your location to meeting point on arrival
Transfer from meeting point to your hotel by the end of the tour
National Park fees
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
Meeting point
Take bus 234 from Damascus Gate in Jerusalem to the last stop Bethlehem 300 Checkpoint, once you get off the bus, follow everything to cross to Bethlehem side where your guide will be waiting to meet you once you cross.
Important notes
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
• Bethlehem 300 Checkpoint (Crossing point between Bethlehem and Jerusalem)
Location on Google Map: https://goo.gl/oL8jJx
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
