How to Plan Your Jerusalem & Bethlehem Full Day Tour from Tel Aviv

Are you heading to Tel Aviv for your next vacation? Don’t miss out on the chance to explore two of Israel’s most significant religious destinations, Jerusalem, and Bethlehem. This full-day tour will take you on an adventure through history, spiritualism, and the breathtaking beauty of these two cities.

Here’s how to plan your Jerusalem & Bethlehem Full Day Tour from Tel Aviv:

Step 1: Book the Tour

To secure your spot on this tour, book online through GetYourGuide, a trusted website that allows you to browse different activities and tours, and book directly with the operator. Click on book the tour here to reserve your spot today.

Step 2: Choose a Departure Point

The tour has two departure points to choose from: Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. If you’re staying in Tel Aviv, select the Tel Aviv option, and if you’re already in Jerusalem, select the Jerusalem option.

Step 3: Get Ready for an Amazing Day

The tour starts at 6:30 am, so be sure to get plenty of rest the night before. The pick-up time and location will be confirmed by the operator after you book. The tour will last around 10 hours, so be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Also, don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a water bottle.

Experience Highlights

The tour includes several highlights that you don’t want to miss, including:

1. Visit the Site of the Resurrection of Christ

The tour takes you to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the most significant Christian site in the world. It is where Jesus Christ was crucified, buried, and resurrected.

2. Walk through the Old City of Jerusalem following thousands of years of history

Jerusalem’s Old City is one of the holiest places on earth, and it has significant religious and historical value. You will walk the narrow streets of the city and experience the different cultures, beliefs, and traditions.

3. Learn the History of Jerusalem with an Expert Government Licensed Guide

Your guide will be a licensed expert in history and religion, and they will guide you through the city’s different sites, providing insight into their significance and history.

4. See the Place where Jesus was Born

In Bethlehem, you will visit the Church of the Nativity, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, and one of the oldest standing churches in the world. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has significant religious and historical importance.

Full Tour Description

The tour starts with a pick-up from your designated location, and your guide will take you on a journey through the stunning landscapes of Israel’s countryside. You will stop at the Mount of Olives, a mountain ridge east of Jerusalem, where you can take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s Old Town.

Next, you will enter the Old City of Jerusalem through the Lion’s Gate. You will tour the major attractions such as the Wailing Wall, Temple Mount, and the Dome of the Rock. You will walk along the Jewish and Armenian Quarters, and the recently restored Roman Cardo.

After exploring the Old City, you will head to Bethlehem, which is a 30-minute drive away. Here, you will visit the Church of the Nativity, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

The tour will end around 5:30 pm, and you will be dropped off at your designated location.

Conclusion

The Jerusalem & Bethlehem Full Day Tour is an experience of a lifetime, full of history, culture, and spirituality. By following the steps above, you can plan your tour with ease and enjoy the unforgettable journey that awaits. Don’t forget to book your spot here today!

Insider’s Guide to Exploring Bethlehem: The City of History and Culture

If you are planning to visit Bethlehem and looking for something different and unique, then this insider’s guide is just for you. This guide will provide you with some hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your trip unforgettable.

Local Attractions

Apart from the famous Church of Nativity, there are some hidden gems in Bethlehem that only locals know about. If you want to experience Bethlehem like a local, you should visit the beautiful Aida refugee camp, which is home to some beautiful murals and graffiti. The camp will provide you with an insight into the daily life of Palestinians in Bethlehem. Another hidden gem is the Walled Off Hotel, a hotel designed by Banksy. The hotel has a museum and an art gallery showcasing some of Banksy’s most famous works.

Dining Spots

If you are a foodie who loves to explore new cuisines, Bethlehem is the place to be. You can try Mansaf, which is a traditional Palestinian dish made with lamb, yogurt, and rice. It is served on special occasions such as weddings and festivals. Another dish is Maqluba, which means “upside-down” in Arabic. It is a layered dish made with vegetables and meat, cooked in a pot, and then flipped over onto a platter to serve.

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, head to the Tent Restaurant at the Banksy Hotel, where you can enjoy delicious Palestinian and Middle Eastern cuisine while enjoying the stunning view of the Separation Wall.

Cultural Experiences

Bethlehem is a city with a rich history and culture. One of the most beautiful traditions is the lighting of the Christmas tree in Manger Square, which is attended by thousands of people from all over the world. If you are visiting during Christmas, you can also attend the Midnight Mass at the Church of Nativity.

You can also explore the local art scene in Bethlehem by visiting the Dar Al-Kalima University College of Arts and Culture. The university has an art gallery showcasing Palestinian art, and you can also attend art workshops conducted by local artists.

Local History

Bethlehem has a rich and fascinating history, and the best way to explore it is through a guided tour. You can visit the Bethlehem Peace Center, which offers tours of the city, including a visit to the Herodium mountain fortress, built by King Herod. You can also visit the Palestinian Heritage Center, which showcases traditional Palestinian embroidery, handcrafts, and costumes.

If you’re interested in modern history, you can visit the Aida refugee camp and learn about the Palestinian refugees who have lived there since 1948.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to do something different and unique, you can join a hiking tour to the city’s surrounding hills and enjoy stunning views of Bethlehem and its surroundings. You can also take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Palestinian dishes such as Falafel, Hummus, and Baba Ghanoush.

Another unique experience is to join a tour of the local olive groves and learn about the Palestinian tradition of olive harvesting. You can also visit a local olive oil press and taste some of the best olive oil in the world.

In conclusion, Bethlehem is a city that deserves to be explored in-depth and from a local’s perspective. With this insider’s guide, you can experience the real Bethlehem and create unforgettable memories.