Bethlehem Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and see in Bethlehem with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the local culture, where to stay, what to buy, and more!


Introduction to Bethlehem

Bethlehem is an ancient city with a significant religious and cultural history located in the West Bank, Palestinian territories, in the Middle East, Asia. It attracts visitors from all over the world as it’s the birthplace of Jesus Christ and home to important religious sights of Christianity. Bethlehem is a must-visit destination for those interested in history, religion, culture, and outdoor adventures. The City has many restaurants, cafes, shops, and accommodations facilities suitable for travelers with different interests, styles, and budgets.

List of Places to Visit in Bethlehem

There are many places to visit in Bethlehem, and the city packs so much history, culture, and adventure in a relatively small area. It may be challenging to explore all that it offers in one visit, so here are some must-see places to prioritize:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Church of the Nativity: a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Jesus Christ.
  • Milk Grotto Church: a holy site for Christian and Muslim beliefs.
  • Shepherd’s Field: a significant site for the Christian religion.
  • Bethlehem Peace Center: a cultural and educational center that promotes peace and promotes the Palestinian heritage and identity.
  • Palestinian Heritage Center: a place to see the traditional Palestinian architecture, heritage, and culture.

Natural Attractions of Bethlehem: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wadi Qelt: a scenic valley running from Jericho to Jerusalem suitable for hikes and treks.
  • Mar Saba Monastery: a Byzantine monastery overlooking the Kidron Valley suitable for hiking and camping.
  • Solomon’s Pools: ancient water reservoirs built by the King Solomon for irrigation, good for hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bethlehem

Bethlehem is home to many hiking and biking trails where visitors can enjoy the scenic views and explore the natural beauty of Palestine. Some recommended routes include:

  • Hike to Herodium: a moderate hike to the Herodian fortress, palaces, and its surrounding National Park.
  • Camel Route: a moderate easy trail in the desert hills south of Bethlehem that follows the traditional Bedouin camel routes.
  • Nabi Musa to Mar Saba: a 10 km hike from the Nabi Musa village to the Mar Saba Monastery through the desert valleys and cliffs.

Best Things to Do in Bethlehem: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Religious sites: Bethlehem has many religious sites like the Church of the Nativity, Milk Grotto Church, and the Shepherd’s Field.
  • Take a Walking Tour: A walking tour is an excellent way to see more of Bethlehem, learn about its history, and enjoy its street life.
  • Visit the Museums: The Bethlehem Peace Center and Palestinian Heritage Center are excellent places to see the traditional Palestinian architecture, heritage, and culture.
  • Eat Palestinian Food: Bethlehem offers authentic Palestinian cuisine like hummus, falafel, foul, and maqluba.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bethlehem

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long visit to Bethlehem:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Church of the Nativity and Milk Grotto Church
Day 2 Go on a walking tour of the Old City and see the Bethlehem Peace Center
Day 3 Hike to Wadi Qelt
Day 4 Visit the Palestinian Heritage Center and have a taste of Palestinian Cuisine
Day 5 Visit the Shepherd’s Field and go on a Camel Route trail
Day 6 Visit the Mar Saba Monastery
Day 7 Shop for Souvenirs and visit the Solomon’s Pools

Food and Drink Scene of Bethlehem

Palestinian cuisine is an essential element of Bethlehem’s cultural heritage, which has been influenced by the Arab, Jewish, and Mediterranean cultures. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hummus: A creamy dip made with chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil.
  • Maqluba: A rice dish layered with vegetables and lamb or chicken.
  • Falafel: a fried chickpea patty usually served in a pita wrap.

Local Beverages

  • Arak: A local alcoholic drink made from dried grape skins and aniseed.
  • Tea with Sage and Mint: A refreshing herbal tea with a delicate taste of sage and mint.

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

According to Trip Advisor, Bethlehem has a wide range of accommodation options suitable for a wide range of travelers. Some of the top-rated ones include:

  • Jacir Palace Hotel Bethlehem: A five-star hotel that provides panoramic views of the city and its natural surroundings.
  • Banksy’s Walled Off Hotel: A luxury boutique hotel that combines political art and hospitality, featuring a museum and a gallery within.
  • Holy Family Guest House: A budget-friendly guesthouse located near the Church of the Nativity.

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

Some of the most popular souvenirs to buy in Bethlehem include:

  • Olive Wood Products: Hand-carved olive wood objects such as crucifixes and nativity sets.
  • Keffiyeh: A traditional Middle Eastern checkered scarf commonly worn by Palestinian men.
  • Spices: A blend of natural spices used for making traditional Palestinian cuisine.

Local Culture and Customs of Bethlehem

Palestinian culture is rich and diverse due to its unique history and influences from other cultures. Some basic customs and values include:

  • Hospitality: Palestinian people are known for being hospitable and welcoming.
  • Respect: Respect for elders and authorities is deeply ingrained in Palestinian culture.
  • Family: Family is considered the cornerstone of Palestinian society.

Best Time to Visit Bethlehem

The best times to visit Bethlehem are during spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer. Summer may be too hot for some visitors, and winter may have occasional rainfall and colder temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bethlehem

Do:

  • Respect locals and their customs
  • Try to learn a few Arabic phrases
  • Dress modestly in religious sites
  • Be respectful of the culture and traditions of the Palestinian people.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of or with the locals without their permission
  • Express any support or opposition towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in public.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bethlehem

Like any other destination, travelers should be aware of the potential security risks when traveling to Bethlehem. It’s essential to be aware of the travel advisory of your home country and follow any instructions from the local authorities.

Health in Bethlehem

The tap water is not drinkable in Bethlehem, and visitors should drink bottled water or soft drinks instead. It’s also essential to have travel health insurance, especially for medical evacuation in case of emergencies.

Getting to Bethlehem: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bethlehem is accessible by air, land, and sea, and there are several ways to get there.

Airports Near Bethlehem

The nearest International Airport is Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, Israel, which is about 40 kilometers away. There is no direct public transport connection between Ben Gurion and Bethlehem. Visitors can take a shuttle bus from the airport to Jerusalem and take a taxi to Bethlehem from there.

Bus Stations Near Bethlehem

Central Bus Station in Bethlehem provides regular bus service to Jerusalem, Ramallah, and other cities in the West Bank. Visitors can also take a shared service taxi or private taxi to Bethlehem from Jerusalem.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a taxi to get to Bethlehem from other cities in the West Bank or Israel.

How to Get Around in Bethlehem

Visitors can walk around the Old City or take a taxi, shared taxi, or private taxi to go to other places in Bethlehem. There are also Car rental services available for those who prefer to drive themselves.

Where to Go Next from Bethlehem: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bethlehem is an excellent base to explore many other cities and attractions in the West Bank, Israel, and Jordan.

Some nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Jericho: The oldest city in the world famous for its biblical significance and natural wonders.
  • Dead Sea: The lowest point on earth, known for its mud, salty water, and health benefits.
  • Jerusalem: One of the holiest cities in the world and home to many religious sites like the Western Wall, Temple Mount, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Conclusion

A visit to Bethlehem is an exceptional experience that combines culture, history, and outdoor adventures. From the religious sites to the natural attractions, there’s something for everyone in Bethlehem. Visitors can enjoy the hospitality of the Palestinian people, taste their delicious cuisine, and explore the beauty of the ancient city. By following the guidelines in this travel guide, visitors can make the most of their time in Bethlehem and have a memorable experience.

The Church of the Nativity The Church of the Nativity Bethlehem Bethlehem The Catholic site of the Shepherd's Fields in Bethlehem's Beit Sahour suburb The Catholic site of the Shepherd's Fields in Bethlehem's Beit Sahour suburb The scenery around Bethlehem-perfect for hiking! The scenery around Bethlehem-perfect for hiking! A spice shop in Bethlehem's souq A spice shop in Bethlehem's souq Taybeh beer-a Palestinian beer brand from the village of Taybeh nearby Ramallah (₪8 at the shops) Taybeh beer-a Palestinian beer brand from the village of Taybeh nearby Ramallah (₪8 at the shops) The Cremisan Monastery/Winery in Bethlehem's suburb, Beit Jala The Cremisan Monastery/Winery in Bethlehem's suburb, Beit Jala Jacir Palace Intercontinental Hotel Jacir Palace Intercontinental Hotel