Nazareth Travel Guide

This travel guide to Nazareth in Israel covers everything from places to visit, outdoor adventures, food and drink, dos and don'ts, safety, and how to get there and around.


Introduction to Nazareth

Nazareth is a significant city in the Lower Galilee region of Israel. This vibrant city is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is the largest Arab city in Israel and the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Nazareth has an abundance of cultural, religious, and historical sites, including museums, churches, and outdoor attractions.

In this comprehensive Nazareth travel guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about this fascinating city, including places to visit, food and drink, dos and don’ts, safety, and how to get there and around.

List of Places to Visit in Nazareth

Nazareth has numerous attractions, including cultural, historical, and natural sites. Here are some of the most popular places to visit in Nazareth:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Nazareth Village: This outdoor museum is an excellent place to experience the life and times of Jesus Christ. The Nazareth Village features reconstructed structures, including a carpenter’s shop and a synagogue from 2000 years ago.

  • The Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation: This stunning church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is one of the most significant holy sites in Nazareth. According to tradition, this is the site where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, announcing that she would give birth to Jesus.

  • The International Mary of Nazareth Center: This beautiful museum is dedicated to the life, traditions, and customs of Mary, the mother of Jesus. The museum has magnificent artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and murals.

Natural Attractions of Nazareth: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Mount Precipice: This beautiful mountain provides a breathtaking view of the Jezreel Valley. It is said to be the site where Jesus escaped from an angry mob.

  • The Nahalal Stream Nature Reserve: This tranquil reserve features beautiful flora and fauna, including migratory birds, wildflowers, and orchids. Visitors can hike, bike, or walk along the stream and enjoy the natural scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nazareth

Nazareth has fantastic hiking trails and biking routes that provide a unique way to explore the city’s natural beauty. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Nazareth include:

  • The Jesus Trail: This beautiful 65-kilometer trail takes hikers through stunning landscapes, including valleys, forests, and mountains. The trail is marked by signs and passes through significant historical and religious sites, including the Sea of Galilee and the Mount of Beatitudes.

  • The Harod Valley Trails: This network of trails offers an excellent biking experience, with a variety of routes that cater to different levels of fitness and skill. The trails pass through beautiful landscapes, including orchards, forests, and natural springs.

Best Things to Do in Nazareth: Activities and Tours

Nazareth has a wide range of activities and tours that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the best things to do in Nazareth:

  • Cooking classes: Nazareth is known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and visitors can take cooking classes and learn how to prepare traditional dishes.

  • Walking tours: Guided walking tours are an excellent way to explore the city’s cultural and historical sites. These tours take visitors through the city’s old town, the market, and other significant sites.

  • Wine tours: Visitors can take wine tours and taste delicious wines from the nearby vineyards. These tours include visits to the vineyards, wine tasting, and learning about the wine-making process.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nazareth

Here is a sample week-long itinerary that covers the best of Nazareth:

  • Day 1: Visit the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation and the International Mary of Nazareth Center.
  • Day 2: Hike the Jesus Trail and explore the Mount Precipice.
  • Day 3: Visit the Nazareth Village and learn about the life and times of Jesus.
  • Day 4: Take a walking tour of the city’s old town and the market.
  • Day 5: Visit the Nahalal Stream Nature Reserve and enjoy the natural scenery.
  • Day 6: Learn how to cook authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a cooking class.
  • Day 7: Take a wine tour and taste delicious wines from the nearby vineyards.

Food and Drink Scene of Nazareth

Nazareth is known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, which has been influenced by the city’s diverse cultural heritage. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Shakshuka: This popular breakfast dish is made with eggs, tomatoes, onions, and spices.

  • Hummus: This delicious dip is made with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.

  • Stuffed Grape Leaves: This vegetarian dish is made with grape leaves, rice, onions, and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Arak: This traditional alcoholic beverage is made with anise and is popular throughout the Middle East.

  • Limonana: This refreshing drink is made with lemon juice, mint, and sugar.

Where to Stay in Nazareth: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nazareth offers a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Some popular options include:

  • Villa Nazareth Hotel: This beautiful hotel is located in the Old City and has comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.

  • Fauzi Azar Inn: This beautifully restored guesthouse is just a few minutes’ walk from the market and has a lovely rooftop terrace.

  • Legacy Nazareh Hotel: This luxurious hotel offers excellent views of the city and has spacious rooms and suites.

What to Buy in Nazareth: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Nazareth is famous for its local products, including handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Here are some popular items to bring home:

  • Olive wood products: Nazareth is known for its beautiful olive wood products, including bowls, utensils, and religious artifacts.

  • Spices: The city’s spice market offers a wide range of aromatic spices, including paprika, cumin, and saffron.

Local Culture and Customs of Nazareth

Nazareth is a predominantly Muslim city, and visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions. It is advisable to dress modestly and remove shoes when entering mosques or religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Nazareth

The best time to visit Nazareth is during spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months (June to September) can be hot and humid, while the winter months (December to February) can be chilly and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nazareth

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Remove shoes when entering mosques or religious sites.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and personal belongings.

Don’t:

  • Display public affection.
  • Drink alcohol in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nazareth

Nazareth is generally a safe city for tourists, but visitors should be mindful of pickpockets and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

Health in Nazareth

Visitors should take standard health precautions, including getting vaccinated and purchasing travel insurance. It is advisable to drink bottled water and avoid consuming unsafe food.

Getting to Nazareth: Transportation Options and Logistics

Nazareth is easily accessible by air, bus, or car. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Nazareth

The closest airport to Nazareth is the Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, located approximately 123 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Nazareth

The Nazareth Central Bus Station is the main bus station in the city and offers frequent services to major cities and towns in Israel.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi from Tel Aviv to Nazareth.

How to Get Around in Nazareth

Nazareth is a small city, and visitors can easily explore the city on foot. Taxis and minibusses are also available for transportation.

Where to Go Next from Nazareth: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nazareth is located in the heart of the Lower Galilee region, and visitors can explore nearby destinations, such as Haifa, Tiberias, and the Sea of Galilee.

Conclusion

Nazareth is a fascinating and culturally rich city that attracts millions of tourists every year. From historical and religious sites to natural attractions and outdoor adventures, Nazareth offers something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide has covered everything you need to know about this beautiful city, including places to visit, food and drink, dos and don’ts, safety, and how to get there and around.

Nazareth, 1842 Nazareth, 1842 The Basilica of the Annunciation The Basilica of the Annunciation Actors in period clothing at Nazareth Village Actors in period clothing at Nazareth Village