How to Visit Bethlehem, Jericho and the Jordan River in a Day Trip from Jerusalem Making a day trip from Jerusalem to some of the oldest sites of the Holy Land is an exciting prospect. It combines the limitless possibilities of modern transport with a breathtaking journey through rich religion and history. The holy city of Jerusalem is full of awe-inspiring sights, but what is it like to journey beyond its walls and see some of the other religious locations accessible from Jerusalem? This article will explain how to make a day trip from Jerusalem to the iconic sites of Bethlehem, Jericho, and the Jordan River. Getting to BethlehemThe first stop on your tour of ancient biblical cities is Bethlehem, believed to be the birthplace of Jesus. From Jerusalem, there are multiple options for transport. The most direct route would be to make use of public transport options. Two bus lines, #21 and #248, will take travelers to Bethlehem’s Rachel’s Tomb. Buses depart frequently but, depending on traffic, usually take around 30 minutes to reach the tomb. It’s also possible to travel by taxi or chauffeur-driven car wherever you’d like within Bethlehem. Once you reach Bethlehem, you can explore many historical sites such as the Church of the Nativity, believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, and Herodion fortress. You can also choose to take a walking tour for a deeper insight into Bethlehem’s culture and history. Some tour operators provide access to religious sites that might not be available without a guide.Visiting JerichoFrom Bethlehem, it’s about twenty minutes by car to Jericho, an ancient city in the West Bank and one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Jericho is known for its lush landscape and the Mount of Temptation, where Jesus is believed to have been tempted by Satan in the Biblical Book of Matthew. In Jericho, visitors can explore a number of historically significant sites such as Tel Jericho, an archaeological site originating in the 9th century BC, and see the Hisham’s Palace and Noah’s Spring nearby. It’s also possible to take a raft ride on the River Jordan right up to the entrance of Jericho and take in its scenic views. Exploring the Jordan RiverAfter departing Jericho, it will take a little over an hour to drive to the River Jordan. As the river flowing through the borders of Israel and Jordan, it is the source of one of history’s oldest waterways and many close associates with biblical events. It is also known for its scenery and therapeutic hot springs near its banks. When visiting this legendary river, there are a few possibilities for activities. You can take a dip in one of its bathing area hotsprings for an experience that has been favored by local cultures for thousands of years. Alternatively, nearby Jordan Valley Park offers guided Jeep tours along the river’s foothills that give visitors a unique overview of their surroundings and their history. Preparing your TripWhen taking a trip from Jerusalem to visit its historical landmarks, travelers are encouraged to plan their journey carefully as it can involve complex routes with multiple transport methods. To avoid disappointment or misunderstandings, travelers should refer to local tourist organizations or book activities through reliable platforms such as GetYourGuide. In conclusion, taking a day trip from Jerusalem to some of the oldest cities in religion has many exciting aspects. Exploring new cultures, seeing ancient relics firsthand and having an immersive pilgrimage experience all contribute to a day that most people will remember for many years to come. With proper planning, you can enjoy everything this journey has to offer and be back in your Jerusalem hotel with plenty of unbelievable holiday tales on the same evening.

An Insider’s Guide to Bethlehem, Jericho and the Jordan River

If you’re visiting Jerusalem, it’s worth taking a day trip to the nearby cities of Bethlehem, Jericho, and the Jordan River. While the tourist spots are definitely worth a visit, there are some hidden gems that only locals know about. Here’s an insider’s guide to experiencing the best of these cities.

Local Attractions

While the Church of the Nativity and the Shepherd’s Fields are must-see sights, consider visiting the Palestine Museum of Natural History in Bethlehem. This unique museum combines nature, science, and culture by showcasing specimens of local plants and animals alongside traditional Palestinian clothing and handicrafts. In Jericho, the Hisham’s Palace is a fascinating archaeological site that provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Umayyad dynasty.

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, visit the Jordan River with its tranquil waters and stunning nature. Take a swim or a boating trip to soak up the serene ambiance that has been the spiritual centre for many people throughout history.

Dining Spots

The Palestinian food scene is diverse, rich and unique. Don’t settle for just trying hummus and falafel. While in Bethlehem, try the traditional ‘Musakhan’ dish, tender chicken marinated with onions, sumac and fried almonds, baked on a sheet of Palestinian ‘Taboon’ bread. In Jericho, try the traditional Bedouin dish, ‘Zarb’, which is meat and vegetables slow-cooked underground. You can also enjoy a famous Jericho’s dessert, ‘Qatayef’, a delicious pancake filled with nuts and sugar syrup.

Cultural Experiences

Palestinian culture is infused with traditions and customs that are worth exploring. If you’re in Bethlehem during Christmas, the annual Bethlehem Christmas Market is an enchanting experience. You can shop for locally made handicrafts and traditional food, as well as enjoy choir music and storytelling under the stars.

Moreover, take a pottery workshop in Jericho and learn how to shape unique creations with natural local materials. Lastly, try to catch a local music or dance performance in any nearby city. These traditional forms of entertainment are often accompanied with stories that tell about the city and the people who helped characterize it.

Local History

Bethlehem and Jericho are both packed with history, from the time of Canaanites to Byzantine times. Walk on the ancient mosaic floors of Hisham’s Palace during the Umayyad rule, or explore the remains of the small village of ‘Taybeh’, mentioned in the bible, located between Bethlehem and Ramallah.

Another incredible experience travelers often miss is a visit to the Herodian, a palace-fortress built by famed King Herod the Great on top of the highest hill in Judea. It would be ranked as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Its outstanding architecture and position offer a fascinating story and splendid panoramic views.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to experience something truly unique, try opting for an authentic Palestinian rural experience. Consider visiting the nearby Wadi Qelt, a scenic natural gorge that leads down towards the Jordan River and the desert beyond. Another option is the Abu Hindi Farm where visitors get to pick their own vegetables and fruits and learn about agriculture in Palestine. You can also spend a ‘kayt’ or a night in a local Bedouin tent for a genuine look into the traditional Palestinian lifestyle.

In conclusion, these lesser-known attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history and off-the-beaten-path suggestions make an insider’s guide to experiencing Bethlehem, Jericho, and the Jordan River. Wherever you choose to go, make sure you embrace the culture and the beauty of Palestine without limiting yourself to the conventional tourist spots.