From Jerusalem: Bethlehem, Jericho & Qasr al-Yahud

Are you planning a day trip from Jerusalem and wondering which destinations to pick? Well, you’re in for a treat! Jerusalem has many amazing hidden gems in the nearby areas, and one awesome day can take you to some of the most inspiring places in the world! From the birthplace of Jesus – Bethlehem, to the lowest point on Earth – Jericho, and finally to a spot blessed by Jesus himself – Qasr al-Yahud, you’ll get to visit all those spots in one awesome day trip.

Bethlehem

Bethlehem is historically known as the birthplace of Jesus; it is situated in the West Bank area of Palestinian rule. With its ancient landmarks, inspiring stories and its rich culture, it is a must-visit destination for pilgrims around the world. In Bethlehem you could visit the Church of the Nativity which is believed to be built on the site where Jesus was born, offering prayer and liturgies throughout the day. Other religious sites that are worth the visits are Milk Grotto (where it is believed that mother Mary used to breastfeed Jesus), Rachel’s Tomb and the Shepherd’s Field. As for the culture, you will find many religious souvenirs and paintings of Jesus’s life drawn by local artists. At the end of your visit make sure you try some of their traditional meals; it will definitely reward your taste buds!

Jericho

After visiting Bethlehem, you can make the short drive over to Jericho located at the West Bank area, with the Dead Sea nearby. Jericho offers a great combination of archaeological ruins and nature; it is located at 214 meters below sea level, making it one of the lowest point on Earth. Every corner in Jericho is full with history dating back thousands of years. One of its top attractions is Hisham’s Palace and Garden, built by Hisham son of Abdul Malik ibn Marwan back in 743 AD. It was found with mosaic floors, pools and wall paintings complete with detailed descriptions of daily life. The Garden of Zacchaeus is also a must-visit when visiting Jericho; it was known as “the sycamore tree’ in the bible when Jesus climbed it (Luke 19:1-10).

Qasr al-Yahud

Qasr al-Yahud is located about 10 kilometers north of Jericho in a village that goes by its same name. Qasr al-Yahud is known for its significance on a religious level; it is one of the oldest baptized site. The Story tells that Jesus came down from Heaven at this exact spot and he blessed it. When visiting Qasr al-Yahud, visitors can take a dip in the river Jordan at John’s baptism site, believed to be the same site where Jesus was baptized by John. Around the area stands a few monasteries and churches, like the Russian Orthodox monastery and Samuel’s Caverns which are known to be an underground cave in which Prophet Samuel prayed.

Conclusion

If you are planning an amazing day trip from Jerusalem, then make sure you include Bethlehem, Jericho and Qasr al-Yahud in your list. It is an unforgettable experience full of religious and historical sites, along with beautiful scenery and scenery along the way! And if you want to make sure you have an incredible time exploring these amazing places then why not book a guided tour using GetYourGuide. With car transfers included along with knowledgeable guides, you can guarantee your trip will be unforgettable!

Insider’s Guide to Bethlehem, Jericho, and Qasr al-Yahud

Are you planning to explore the biblical region of Israel? After exploring the city of Jerusalem, head to Bethlehem, Jericho, and Qasr al-Yahud. These cities offer a rich cultural and historical experience that will leave you awestruck. This travel guide will help you discover the best local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, is a preferred destination for many travelers visiting Israel. Top attractions in Bethlehem include the Church of Nativity, The Milk Grotto, Manger Square, and Shepherd’s Field. Visit the Church of Nativity, recognized by UNESCO as the World Heritage site, for a religious and historical experience. Then make your way to Jericho, a city that dates back to 10,000 BCE. Explore the famous Qumran Caves and the Monastery of the Temptation, the Palace of Hisham, and the ancient city walls. Make a stop at Qasr al-Yahud, where Jesus was baptized, located on the western bank of the Jordan River.

Dining Spots

Enjoy the taste of Palestinian cuisine by visiting the popular Palestinian restaurant, Abu Shanab. Try their famous dish, musakhan, which consists of roasted chicken, sumac, onions, and traditional Palestinian bread. Another must-visit restaurant is Afteem, known for its amazing falafels, hummus, and other Middle Eastern delicacies.

Cultural Experiences

Learn more about Palestinian culture by joining a tour with Abraham Tours. They offer locals-led tours that are informative and interactive. Attend a traditional Palestinian wedding by booking through Farashe Palestinian Weddings to experience a cultural celebration. For a more immersive experience, Paul’s Outreach conducts Palestinian hospitality tours to showcase Palestinian culture, food, and history.

Local History

Bethlehem has many historical sites, including the Church of Nativity, where Jesus Christ was born, the Milk Grotto, where Mary was thought to have nursed Jesus, and the Shepherd’s Field, where the angels visited the shepherds to announce the birth of Jesus. Jericho is also rich in history, being one of the oldest cities on earth. Stone structures, Miqvaot meaning Baptismal places, and other antique treasures are preserved.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

Visit the local Bedouin camps and learn about their culture and way of living. Go on a hiking trail through the Wadi Qelt, an unexplored valley that runs from the Judean desert to Jericho. Take a step back in time and visit the ancient village of Taybeh, which dates back to the Roman empire and is known for its famous Taybeh beer.

In conclusion, Bethlehem, Jericho, and Qasr al-Yahud offer a unique and incredible travel experience, rich in history and culture. Visitors will have a chance to explore historical sites, taste local cuisine, learn about Palestinian culture and explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. Start planning your trip today and get ready for an unforgettable journey in Israel.