Bethlehem
Middle East, Caucasus and Central Asia · Palestine
Did you know?
- Afteem serves a falafel sandwich for ₪8 on Manger Square.
- In December, Manger Square hosts Christmas Eve Mass amid festive decorations.
- The Church of the Nativity is free to enter, though the Grotto can have long queues.
See also
Overview
Bethlehem pairs pilgrimage landmarks with Palestinian culture in a compact, walkable old city south of Jerusalem. The Church of the Nativity, barrier art, souq, and nearby valleys make it a rewarding base for heritage-focused travelers.
Languages: Arabic
Why go?
Bethlehem is a small city 10 km south of Jerusalem in the West Bank, administered by the Palestinian Authority. It is most famous as the birthplace of Jesus, home to the Church of the Nativity, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city offers a less touristy alternative to Jerusalem for souvenirs and a glimpse into Palestinian culture.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Get in
Most visitors arrive from Jerusalem by bus or shared taxi. There are two main access routes: the highway and the local road with Checkpoint 300 (Rachel's Crossing). Security checks are similar to airport security. Tourists with a valid passport and Israeli visa can enter and exit freely.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Get around
Bethlehem is walkable for most sites. Taxis are very cheap—within the city no more than ₪20, to Beit Sahour or Beit Jala about ₪25-30. Always agree on a price before getting in. For distant sites like Herodium, negotiate a round trip with waiting time.
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When to go
The best time to visit is during Christmas when Bethlehem is festively decorated, but expect large crowds. Summer is also popular. The weather is mild year-round.
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Where to stay
Bethlehem offers budget accommodation starting from ₪50 for a dorm bed at hostels like House of Peace and Bunksurfing Hostel. Homestays in refugee camps start at ₪100. Hotels often offer lower rates than Jerusalem, and bargaining is common.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Food and drink
Bethlehem has excellent and cheap Arabic food. Try falafel at Afteem Restaurant on Manger Square (₪8 for a sandwich) or grills at Abu Shanab. For drinks, visit Cremisan Cellars winery or try Taybeh beer and Arak liquor. There are also nightclubs in Beit Jala.
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Things to do
Don't miss the Church of the Nativity (free entry, but long queues for the Grotto). See Banksy's graffiti on the separation barrier, visit Shepherds' Fields, and explore the old city souq. Hike in Artas Valley or take a free walking tour. In December, attend Christmas Eve Mass at Manger Square.
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Safety
Bethlehem is generally safe for tourists. The main safety concern is the political situation and checkpoints. Keep your passport with you. Avoid any large gatherings or protests.
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Connectivity
The Palestinian territories use two country codes: +970 and +972. If you have trouble reaching a number, try the other code. WiFi is available at many cafes and restaurants.
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Budget
Backpackers can get by on ₪100-150 per day including dorm accommodation, street food, and local transport.
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Day trips
Day trips from Bethlehem include Herodium Park, the monasteries of Mar Saba and St. Theodosius, and Battir UNESCO site. Jerusalem is a short distance away. For the Dead Sea, go via Jericho.
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Etiquette
When visiting churches and mosques, dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees). Bargaining is expected in the souq. Smoking is common in cafes.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Learn
The All Nations Cafe organizes summer caravans to learn about local life. The Holy Land Trust offers tours and homestays. Bethlehem Bible College provides courses in Biblical Studies.
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Go next
From Bethlehem bus station, shared taxis go to most West Bank cities. Popular next stops: Jerusalem (10 km), Hebron, Jericho with the Dead Sea, and Nablus.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Field guide adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0. Text has been adapted and organized for this guide. About our sources.
Places to know
A few starting points from the guide. Check current hours and prices before you go.
- eat
Abu Shanab
The best grills in town, served by two brothers with impressive mustaches. Fresh ingredients and the meat is chopped and prepared in front of you using traditional methods. The restaurant issues certificates stating that you have eaten there.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Afteem Restaurant
If you love falafel, fresh homemade hummus, and other tasty Arabic food...you MUST visit this restaurant. Probably one of the best falafel shops in Palestine or Israel. The falafel is so good, shops come from as far away as Haifa to buy the raw mix.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Beit Jala Pork Butcher Shop
Craving some fresh pork in the Holy Land? Beit Jala's pork butchery is a rarity in a land where Muslims and Jews both don't eat pork. Customers come all the way from Tel Aviv.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Bon Jour Café
A brand new western style café adjacent to Bethlehem University. With its stylish look and relaxed atmosphere Bon Jour has quickly become a popular hang out. The Café is best known for its wide selection of coffees and its early morning breakfast.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Bonjour Restaurant & Cafe
Located right next to Bethlehem University (in the heart of Bethlehem), "Bonjour" offers international cuisine (with an Arabic flair) in a stylish, relaxing space. Owned by two young Palestinian entrepreneurs, Bonjour has free WiFi, great coffee, and an attractive menu. Arabic, English, and Hebrew spoken.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Dar Jdoudnah
A fine bar with excellent snacks, particularly the Sambusek (wild thyme-and-cheese pastries). The name means "Our Grandfather’s House", and the walls are filled with evocative photographs of old Bethlehem
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Mundo Restaurant
Mundo Restaurant makes the best pizza in Bethlehem. The restaurant provides a family-friendly atmosphere (and an excellent view).
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Shepherds Valley Village - The Tent Restaurant
Good local cuisine in an outdoor setting or tent in winter. Good views across the valley.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
Before you go
Connectivity
Country codes +970 and +972; try both for phone numbers. WiFi in many cafes.
Culture
Bethlehem is a Christian city with a large Muslim population. Dress modestly at religious sites.
Language
Arabic is the main language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Money
Currency is the Israeli new shekel (ILS). Bargaining is common. ATMs are available, but bring cash for smaller shops.
Safety
Bethlehem is safe for tourists, but be aware of checkpoints and keep your passport. Avoid demonstrations.
Transport
Taxis within city max ₪20, to suburbs ₪25-30. Negotiate price before ride.
Visa
Tourists with a valid Israeli visa can enter freely. Passport required.