BETHLEHEM VISITOR GUIDE Day Tours - Top 10 Things to See and Do - Getting to and from Bethlehem

Home , Battir, Beit Jala, Beit Sahour, Bethlehem Governorate, Church of the Nativity, Cremisan Valley

V I S I T P A L E S T I N E C E N T E R - B E T H L E H E M V I S I T O R G U I D E , 2 0 1 9 BETHLEHEM VISITOR GUIDE Day Tours - Top 10 Things to See and Do - Getting to and from Bethlehem

About Bethlehem As the Birthplace of Christ, the ancient town of Bethlehem holds a connection with Christians from all around the world. While small in size and population, Bethlehem and its surroundings have a lot to offer visitors. At the heart of the Inside this Guide town lies Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity built on the site where tradition holds that Mary gave birth to Jesus. About Bethlehem

Start your visit along the UNESCO protected Star Street as you walk Top 10 things to See and Do through the Old Quarters of Bethlehem and discover the hidden

treasures, beautiful architecture and heritage of this historic town. Scheduled and Private Tours

In the proximity of Bethlehem lies the small village of Battir with its amazing landscape featuring olive groves and vineyards. Enjoy a hike across the ancient Getting to and from Bethlehem terraces and water systems that have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. About the Visit Palestine Center Be sure to visit the neighboring town of Beit Sahour, home to the Shepherds' Fields. North of Bethlehem, lies the town of Beit Jala, famous for its beautiful skyline of church steeples and narrow winding roads.

Don't forget to visit one of the many museums and cultural center in the area and check out local listing for upcoming events and festivals.

Ahlan Wa Sahlan - "Welcome to Bethlehem" The Visit Palestine Team

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BETHLEHEM TOP 10 OTHER POINTS OF INTEREST THINGS TO SEE AND DO

1. Manger Square & the Church of the Nativity - Chapel of the Milk Grotto

2. Bethlehem Old Quarters & Star Street - Cremisan Valley

3. Monastery of Mar Saba - The Bank of Palestine Art Gallery

4. Battir and Al Makhrour Valley - Palestine Heritage Museum

5. Shepherds' Fields (Beit Sahour) - Church of Annunciation (Beit Jala)

6. Village of Artas and the Solomon Pools - International Center of Bethlehem

7. The Walled Off Hotel - Herodion

8. The Separation Wall & Graffiti Artworks - St. Theodosius Monastery

9. Traditional Olive Wood Workshop - St. George’s Church (Al Khader)

10. One of the many Museums and Cultural Centers - Souq Al Shab Market (Beit Sahour)

Mar Saba Monastery

BOOK NOW www.visitpalestine.ps Tel # +972 2771992 Email: [email protected] V I S I T P A L E S T I N E C E N T E R - B E T H L E H E M V I S I T O R G U I D E , 2 0 1 9 BETHLEHEM HIGHLIGHTS - HALF DAY TOUR To Book When: Daily (except Sunday) Price $55 per person Private tours available upon request (Click here)

When: Every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday Tour Highlights: and Saturday Star Street, which was declared a UNESCO World Time: 1:30 am - 05:00 pm Heritage Site as a pilgrimage route in 2012 together with the Duration: Approximately 3.5 - 4 hours Church of Nativity. Language: English (other languages available for private tours Manger Square: Located in the heart of Bethlehem with the including Spanish, Italian, Spanish, German, Arabic and more). Private Tour: Available upon request Church of Nativity standing opposite the Mosque of Omar, the Square is adorned by shops, restaurants and narrow Starting Point: Visit Palestine Center, Bethlehem alleyway leading to Bethlehem's hidden quarters and Location: Opposite the Bethlehem City Mall (central bus markets station) Up the stairs next to the Canal Souvenir shop). Group Size: min. 3 to max 12 participants. Church of the Nativity: The Church of Nativity lies in the center of Bethlehem near Manger Square. It is one of the Difficulty Level: Easy walking oldest working Churches in existence today and built over Weather Condition: The tour runs year round Accessibility: (not disabled friendly) the grotto where tradition hold that Mary gave birth to Jesus. Transportation: Public transportation (part of the tour) Meals: No meals included in this tour The Market: The Old Market of Bethlehem (Al Souq) is a typical Middle Eastern bazaar where a person can find fresh Price Includes: fruits, vegetables, spices, and local sweets. Walking - Licensed tour guide through the market offers a glimpse into the town’s daily life. - Entrance fees (not applicable - no entrance fees required) - Public transportation during tour (if needed) The International Center of Bethlehem: Learn about the - Tourist map of Bethlehem - 10% DISCOUNT at the Visit Palestine Center Gift Shop changes that have come to Bethlehem since the 19th - Children: up to 5 years (free), 5-12 (50%), 12+ full price century. Discover the contributions of the Lutheran Church to civil society, state building, and their efforts toward Payment Options: change. - Cash or credit card at the center (starting point) - Online via secure checkout (credit card and PayPal) The Separation Wall Walk along the infamous Separation - 5% discount for advanced payment Wall and learn about its impact on Bethlehem. View the many graffiti works on the wall including artwork by the famous Refund Policy: - Full refund if the organizer cancels the tour British artist Banksy. - Full refund if canceled by client more than 48 hours in advance - 25% cancellation fee from 48 hours in advance Optional Visits (entrance fees not included): Visit the - 50% cancellation fee from 24 hours in advance Walled Off Hotel and tour its museum or visit the Palestinian - No show: No refund Heritage Museum. How to Book: - Book this tour online at Click here - Email: [email protected] - Tel # +972 2 2771992

Take note: - We require a minimum of 3 participants to run this tour - If you do not have a confirmed booking, please contact us to ensure the tour is running. - Passport: If you will be crossing any checkpoints to get to Bethlehem, please remember your passport. - Dress code: Some churches require modest dress code - Wear comfortable walking shoes. - Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated

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HEBRON AND BETHLEHEM FULL DAY TOUR

To Book When: Monday and Wednesday Price $75 per person Private tours available upon request (Click here) When: Every Monday and Wednesday Tour Highlights (Hebron) Time: 9:00 am -1:00 pm Duration: Approximately 4 hours

Hebron, Old City: Walk in the Old City of Hebron and learn Language: English (other languages are available for private tours) about the political situation and divisions in the town (Areas Private Tour: Available upon request H1 H2). Explore the Souq (market) with its arched roofs and maze of alleys lined with shops and stalls sell everything Starting Point: Visit Palestine Center, Bethlehem from pottery, olive wood and glass to fresh and dried fruits. Location: Opposite the Bethlehem City Mall (central bus station) Up the stairs next to the Canal Souvenir shop). Ibrahimi Mosque: Al Haram Al Ibrahimi (Sanctuary of Group Size: 4-12 participants max. Abraham) also known as the Tomb of the Patriarchs– the Difficulty Level: Easy walking resting place of great Patriarchs or Prophets Jacob, Isaac Weather Condition: The tour runs year round and Abraham (Ibrahim), and their wives Leah, Rebecca and Accessibility: (not disabled friendly) Sarah - is sacred to three monotheistic faiths. . Transportation: Public transportation from Bethlehem to Hebron & back. Meals: 30 minutes optional lunch stop in Bethlehem (not included in Hebron Glass Factory: Visit one of Hebron’s famous glass price) blowing factories, a traditional craft in the Hebron area that dates back to the Roman and Phoenicians periods. Price Includes: - Licensed tour guide - Entrance fees (not applicable - no entrance fees required) Tour Highlights (Bethlehem) - Public transportation from Bethehem to Hebron and back - Tourist map of Hebron Manger Square: Located in the heart of Bethlehem with the - 10% DISCOUNT at the Visit Palestine Center Gift Shop Church of Nativity standing opposite the Mosque of Omar, - Children: up to 5 years (free), 5-12 (50%) , 12+ full price the Square is adorned by shops, restaurants and narrow alleyway leading to Bethlehem's hidden quarters and Payment Options: markets. - Cash or credit card at the center (starting point) - Online via secure checkout (credit card and PayPal)

- 5% discount for advanced payment Church of Nativity: The Church of Nativity lies in the center of Bethlehem on Manger Square. It is one of the Refund Policy: oldest working Church in existence today and built over the - Full refund if organizer cancels the tour Grotto where Mary gave birth to Jesus. - Full refund if canceled by client more than 48 hours in advance - 25% cancellation fee from 48 hours in advance Refugee Camp: Visit a refugee camp and meet with the - 50% cancellation fee from 24 hours in advance people and learn about the plight of Palestinian Refugees. - No show: No refund

How to Book: - Book your tour online: www.visitpalestine.ps/tours - Email: [email protected] - Tel # +972 2 2771992

Take note: - We require a minimum of 4 participants to run this tour - If you do not have a confirmed booking, please contact us to ensure the tour is running. - Passport: If you will be crossing any checkpoints to get to the starting point, please remember your passport. - Dress code: Some churches require modest dress code. - Wear comfortable walking shoes. - Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated

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JERUSALEM AND BETHLEHEM FULL DAY TOUR

To Book When: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday Price $75 per person Private tours available upon request (Click here) When: Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday Tour Highlights (Jerusalem) Time: 9:00 am Duration: Approximately 7-8 hours

Four Quarters of the Old City: Learn about the diversity Language: English (other languages available for private tours) of Jerusalem as you walk through its four quarters; the Private Tour: Available upon request Christian Quarter, the Muslim Quarter, the Jewish Quarter and the Armenian Quarter. Starting Point: Jerusalem Hotel Location: 15 Antara Ben Shadad St., Jerusalem off the corner of Souqs and Bazaars: The tour will take you along some of Nablus road the most famous Souqs and Bazzars in the Old City Group Size: 4-12 participants max. including Suq Khan al-Zait, Suq Al-Qattanin, Difficulty Level: Easy walking Suq Aftimos and Al-Dabbagha and more. Weather Condition: The tour runs year round

Accessibility: (not disabled friendly) Via Dolorosa (Way of Sorrows) and Church of Holy Transportation: Public transportation from Bethlehem to Jerusalem and Sepulchre: Retrace the footsteps of Jesus as you walk back. along the 14 stations of the cross ending at the Church of Meals: 45 minutes optional lunch stop in Bethlehem (not included in Holy Sepulchure. Sites and churches include the Church of price) St. Anne and Pools of Bethesda, St. Alexander Russian Price Includes: Church, and John the Baptist Church. - Licensed tour guide

- Entrance fees (Church of St. Anne and Bethesday Pools)) Tour Highlights (Bethlehem) - Public transportation from Jerusalem to Bethlehem and back Separation Wall: Walk along the Separation Wall and learn - Tourist maps for Bethlehem and Jerusalem about its impact on Bethlehem and its residents. See some - 10% DISCOUNT at the Visit Palestine Center Gift Shop of the amazing graffiti artworks by renowned artists such as - Children: up to 5 years (free), 5-12 (50%) , 12+ full price Banksy. Payment Options: - Cash or credit card at the center (starting point) Manger Square: Located in the heart of Bethlehem with the - Online via secure checkout (credit card and PayPal) Church of Nativity standing opposite the Mosque of Omar, - 5% discount for advanced payment the Square is adorned by shops, restaurants and narrow alleyway leading to Bethlehem's hidden quarters and Refund Policy: markets - Full refund if the organizer cancels the tour - Full refund if canceled by client more than 48 hours in advance Church of Nativity: The Church of Nativity lies in the - 25% cancellation fee from 48 hours in advance center of Bethlehem on Manger Square. It is one of the - 50% cancellation fee from 24 hours in advance - No show: No refund oldest working Church in existence today and built over the

Grotto where Mary gave birth to Jesus. How to Book: - Book your tour online at Click Here - Email: [email protected] - Tel # +972 2 2771992

Take note: - We require a minimum of 4 participants to run this tour. - If you do not have a confirmed booking, please contact us to ensure the tour is running. - Passport: Please bring your passport (needed to enter / exit Bethlehem). - Dress code: Some churches require modest dress code. - Wear comfortable walking shoes. - Tipping: Not obligatory, but appreciated.

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BATTIR HALF DAY HIKING TOUR

When: Every Monday Price $105 per person To Book Private tours available upon request (Click here) When: Every Monday Time: 9:00 am Located around 6 km west of Bethlehem, in 2014, Battir Duration: Approximately 4.5 -5 hours became Palestine’s second UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its tiered farm lands, stone-walled terraces that Language: English (other languages are available for private date back to the Roman era and a unique natural irrigation tours) network that continues to distribute water from Private Tour: Available upon request underground sources to the families of the village. Starting Point: In front of Bank of Jordan at Bab Zukak Junction in Bethlehem The hike will take you across one of Palestine's natural Location: Last bus stop for bus 231 from the Damascus Gate in treasures as you hike from the Makhrour Valley to the village Jerusalem. of Battir. Group Size: 3-15 participants max.

Tour highlights: Difficulty Level: Easy Al Makhrour Valley with its amazing landscape and diverse Weather Condition: (March - October) Accessibility: (not disabled friendly) flora and fauna. Transportation: To and from Starting point Meals: Optional lunch at Battir community center (not included in Byzantine/Roman age tombs carved into the rocks of Wadi price, Paid directly to center. Approx. $15 per person Maghrour. Price Includes: Battir Spring – a source of fresh drinking water. - Local trekking tour guide Ottoman oven for preparing stone for building. - Entrance fees - Transportation (as per above) - 10% DISCOUNT at the Visit Palestine Center Gift Shop The Ottoman railway line connecting Jerusalem to Jafa. - Children: up to 5 years (free), 5-12 (50%) , 12+ full price Built by the Ottoman Sultan Abdel Hamid connecting Palestine and Saudi Arabic, today it is located on the Israeli Payment Options: side of the Green line. - Cash or credit card at the Visit Palestine Center - Online via secure checkout Court of the Seven Widows, a historic buildings in the - 5% discount for advanced payment village’s center. Refund Policy: - Full refund if the organizers cancel the tour Battir ecomuseum housed in a small, 200-square-foot - Full refund if canceled more than 48 hours in advance building offer visitors with detailed information on the - 25% cancellation fee 48 hours in advance surrounding area. - 50% cancellation fee 24 hours in advance - No show: No refund Plenty of crops as Battir is famous for its eggplants The village is celebrating a Eggplant Festival in October. How to Book: - Book your tour online at Click Here - Email: [email protected] - Tel # : +972 2 2771992

Take note: - If you do not have a confirmed booking, please contact us to ensure the tour is running. - Passport: If you will be crossing any checkpoints to get to Bethlehem, please remember your passport. - Bring lots of water . - Wear comfortable walking shoes. - Tipping: Not obligatory, but appreciated .

BOOK NOW www.visitpalestine.ps Tel # +972 2771992 Email: [email protected] V I S I T P A L E S T I N E C E N T E R - B E T H L E H E M V I S I T O R G U I D E , 2 0 1 9 BETHLEHEM OLD QUARTER TOUR Private tours only Price $35 per person To Book Featured Tour: (Click here) This tour exclusively explores the hidden Old Quarters When: Private tours only of Bethlehem and takes visitors off the beaten track to Time: 10:00 am learn about the heritage and identity of Bethlehem and Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours its residents. Language: English (other languages are available for private Tour Highlights: tours) Private Tour: Available upon request

Follow Star Street, which was declared a UNESCO World Starting Point: Visit Palestine Center, Bethlehem Heritage Site as a pilgrimage route in 2012 together with the Location: Opposite the Bethlehem City Mall (central bus station) Church of the Nativity. Up the stairs next to the Canal Souvenir shop). Group Size: min. 3 to max. 12 participants. Manger Square: Located in the heart of Bethlehem with the Church of Nativity standing opposite the Mosque of Omar, Difficulty Level: Easy walking (however lots of stairs) the Square is the urban center, hiding Bethlehem's Old Weather Condition: The tour runs year-round Quarters. Accessibility: (Not disabled friendly) Transportation: No transportation included (walking tour)

Meals: No meals included in this tour (Note: Tour ends at the The Seven Historical Quarters: Tucked away from the Visit Palestine Center which houses the Dajo Restaurant and main streets, discover the charm of the oldest centers of Cafe) Bethlehem’s different historic quarters. Learn about the traditional architecture, built by families and clans still Price Includes: remembered in the names of the houses and courtyards. - Experienced and Licensed Local tour Guide - Entrance fees (not applicable - no entrance fees required) The Market: The Old Market of Bethlehem (Al Souq) is not - Tourist map of Bethlehem - 10% DISCOUNT at the Visit Palestine Center Gift Shop a typical Middle Eastern bazaar. Still, you can find fresh - Children: up to 5 years (free), 5-12 (50%), 12+ full price fruits, vegetables, spices, and local sweets. The Souq meanwhile extends almost the entire length of Fawagreh Payment Options: Street in the Old City of Bethlehem. Walking through the - Cash or credit card at the center (starting point) market offers a glimpse into the town’s daily life and the mix - Online via secure checkout (credit card and PayPal) of tradition and globalization. - 5% discount for advanced payment

The Lutheran Compound and Dar Annadwa: Learn about Refund Policy: - Full refund if the organizer cancels the tour the changes that have come to Bethlehem since the 19th - Full refund if canceled by client more than 48 hours in advance century. Discover the contributions of the Lutheran Church - 25% cancellation fee from 48 hours in advance to civil society, cultural development, and their efforts - 50% cancellation fee from 24 hours in advance toward change. - No show: No refund

How to Book: - Book your tour online at www.visitpalestine.ps/tours - Email: [email protected] - Tel # +972 2 2771992

Take note: - We require a minimum of 3 participants to run this tour. - If you do not have a confirmed booking, please contact us to ensure the tour is running. - Passport: If your will be crossing any checkpoints to get to Bethlehem please remember your passport. - Dress code: Some churches require modest dress code. - Wear comfortable walking shoes. - Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated

BOOK NOW www.visitpalestine.ps Tel # +972 2771992 Email: [email protected] V I S I T P A L E S T I N E C E N T E R - B E T H L E H E M V I S I T O R G U I D E , 2 0 1 9

BETHLEHEM FULL DAY TOUR To Book Only available for private tours Price $75 per person (Click here)

Tour Highlights: When: Private tour only (min 4) Mar Saba Monastery: The Greek Orthodox Monastery is Duration: Approximately 6-7 hours located around 15 km from Bethlehem. Few of the Byzantine desert monasteries can match the serenity and Language: English (other languages available for private tours including Spanish, Italian, Spanish, German, Arabic and more). beauty of this place. Clinging to the cliff facing the Kidron Private Tour: Available upon request Valley. Unfortunately, women are not allowed inside the Monastery but they can enjoy a glimpse of the chapel and Starting Point: Visit Palestine Center, Bethlehem building from a nearby two story tower known as the Location: Opposite the Bethlehem City Mall (central bus Women’s Tower. station) Up the stairs next to the Canal Souvenir shop). Group Size: min. 4 to max 12 participants. Beit Sahour: Take a short tour of the town and visit the Shepherds Field where tradition holds the Angel Gabriel Difficulty Level: Easy walking Weather Condition: The tour runs year round appeared to the shepherds and informed them of Jesus’ Accessibility: (not disabled friendly) birth. Transportation: Public transportation (part of tour) Meals: No meals included in this tour Manger Square: Located in the heart of Bethlehem with the Church of Nativity standing opposite the Mosque of Omar, Price based on min 4 persons and Includes: the Square is adorned by shops, restaurants and narrow - Licensed tour guide alleyway leading to Bethlehem's hidden quarters and - Entrance fees (not applicable - no entrance fees required) markets - Public transportation during tour (if needed) - Tourist map of Bethlehem

- 10% DISCOUNT at the Visit Palestine Center Gift Shop Church of the Nativity: The Church of Nativity lies in the - Children: up to 5 years (free), 5-12 (50%), 12+ full price center of Bethlehem near Manger Square. It is one of the oldest working Churches in existence today and built over Payment Options: the grotto where tradition hold that Mary gave birth to Jesus. - Cash or credit card at the center (starting point) - Online via secure checkout (credit card and PayPal) The Separation Wall & Aida Refugee Camp: Walk along - 5% discount for advanced payment

the infamous Separation Wall and learn about its impact on Refund Policy: Bethlehem. View the many graffiti works on the wall including - Full refund if the organizer cancels the tour artwork by the famous British artist Banksy. Walk to nearby - Full refund if canceled by client more than 48 hours in advance Aida Refugee Camp and learn first hand about the plight of - 25% cancellation fee from 48 hours in advance Palestinian Refugees. - 50% cancellation fee from 24 hours in advance - No show: No refund Optional Visit (entrance fees not included): Visit one of several museums in the area including the Museum inside How to Book: - Book your tour online at: Click Here the Walled Off Hotel, the Palestinian Heritage Museum, or - Email: [email protected] the Bank of Palestine Art Gallery. - Tel # +972 2 2771992

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BETHLEHEM OVERNIGHT PACKAGE (2 NIGHTS / 3 DAYS) Book NOW - Click Here Price: Starting at $290 per person

Language: English (other languages are available for private tours including Spanish, Italian, Spanish, German, Arabic and more).

Starting Point: Visit Palestine Center, Bethlehem Location: Opposite the Bethlehem City Mall (central bus station)

Difficulty Level: Easy walking , Easy nature Hike Weather Condition: (March to October) Accessibility: (not disabled friendly) Transportation: Public transportation (part of the tour). Day 1: Arrival: Meals: Breakfast and dinner are included. Welcoming and orientation at the Visit Palestine Center. Pick up (Lunches : Not included) your visitor package including (maps and brochures and other useful info). Price : Based on min 4 participants Note: The sequence of tours might change depending on arrival Price Includes: day, but tour highlight will include: - Accommodation in Bethlehem for two nights (3 star hotel or guesthouses) Morning Hike from Battir to Al Makhrour: - Local tour guide Enjoy a traditional morning breakfast. Checkout of the - Entrance fees (Battir museum, Walled Off Museum) guesthouse and begin your Hike from Battir through Al Makhrour - Public transportation during tours Valley to Beit Jala. Lunch at al Makhrour. - Luggage transfers from Battir to Bethlehem - Tourist map of Bethlehem Manger Square and Church of Nativity: Walking tour of - 10% DISCOUNT at the Visit Palestine Center Gift Shop Bethlehem Old Quarter, Manger Square and Church of Nativity. - Children: up to 5 years (free), 5-12 (50%), 12+ full price

Seperation Wall and Aida Refulgee Camp: Walk along the Payment Options: Separation Wall and learn about its impact of Bethlehem and its - Cash or credit card at the center (starting point) residents. See some of the artwork by famous Graffiti artists such - Online via secure checkout (credit card and PayPal) as Banksy. Visit the nearby Aida Refugee Camp. - 5% discount for advanced payment

Mar Saba Monastery: Drive to the Monastery of Mar Saba, a Refund Policy: beautiful Greek Orthodox Monastery built into the rocks facing the - Full refund if the organizer cancels the tour Kidron Valley. Unfortunately, women are not allowed inside the - Full refund if canceled by client more than 48 hours in advance Monastery but they can enjoy a glimpse of the chapel and - 25% cancellation fee from 48 hours in advance building from a nearby two story tower known as the Women’s - 50% cancellation fee from 24 hours in advance Tower - No show: No refund

Optional Tours (depending on your arrival days): How to Book: Half day tour to Hebron or Half day Tour to Ramallah. - Book your tour online at www.visitpalestine.ps/tours - Email: [email protected] - Tel # +972 2 2771992

Take note: - We require a minimum of 4 participants to run this tour - If you do not have a confirmed booking, please contact us to ensure the tour is running. - Passport: If your will be crossing any checkpoints to get to Bethlehem, please remember your passport. - Dress code: Some churches require modest dress code - Wear comfortable walking shoes. - Tipping: Not obligatory, but appreciated .

BOOK NOW www.visitpalestine.ps Tel # +972 2771992 Email: [email protected] V I S I T P A L E S T I N E C E N T E R - B E T H L E H E M V I S I T O R G U I D E , 2 0 1 9 Our Weekly Calendar of Tours

Private tours available upon request Complete. Tour Details are online at www.visitpalestine.ps

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Hebron Jerusalem Hebron Jerusalem Half Day Tour $55 Half Day Tour $55 Half Day Tour $55 Half Day Tour $55 09:00 am - 01:00 pm 09:00 am - 01:00 pm 09:00 am - 01:00 pm 09:00 am - 01:00 pm

Bethlehem Bethlehem Bethlehem Bethlehem Half Day Tour $55 Half Day $55 Half Day Tour $55 Half Day Tour $55 01:30 - 05:00 pm 01:30 - 05:00 pm 01:30 - 05:00 pm 01:30 - 05:00 pm

Bethlehem and Hebron Jerusalem and Bethlehem Bethlehem and Hebron Jerusalem and Bethlehem Full day Tour $75 Full Day Tour $75 Full Day Tour $75 Full Day Tour $75 09:00 am - 05:00 pm 09:00 am - 05:00 pm 09:00 am - 05:00 pm 09:00 am - 05:00 pm

Ramallah Sebastiya to Nablus Jericho Ramallah Half Day Tour $55 Full day Tour $165 Half Day Tour $55 Half Day Tour $55 09:00 am - 01:00 pm 08:00 am - 05:00 pm 08:00 am - 05:00 pm 09:00 am - 01:00 pm

Makhrour to Battir Wadi Quilt Half Day Tour $105 Saturday Full Day Tour $130 09:00 am - 02:00 pm 08:00 am - 05:00 pm

Jerusalem Half Day Tour $55 Sunday Friday 09:00 am - 01:00 pm

Bethlehem Bethlehem Jericho Half Day Tour $55 Half Day Tour $55 Half Day Tour 09:30 am - 01:00 pm 01:30 - 05:00 pm 09:30 am - 01:30 pm Jericho Jerusalem and Bethlehem Arab Rashaydeh Sunrsie Half Day Tour $55 Full Day Tour Overnight Tour $75 Note: Check online 09:30 - 01:00 pm 09:00 am - 05:00 pm 4 pm Sunday - 9 am Monday Jenin : Every other Sunday Nablus: every other Sunday Jerusalem Bike Tour Ramallah and Taybeh Jenin (every other Sunday) Half Day Tour $55 Full Day Tour $55 Full Day Tour 09:00 am - 01:00 pm 09:00 am - 05:00 pm 09:30 - 05:00 pm

BOOK NOW www.visitpalestine.ps Tel # +972 2771992 Email: [email protected] V I S I T P A L E S T I N E C E N T E R - B E T H L E H E M V I S I T O R G U I D E , 2 0 1 9 GETTING TO AND FROM BETHLEHEM Practical Information

Location: Bethlehem is located around 10 km (6 miles) south of Jerusalem. The main towns and villages within

the Bethlehem Governorate include Bethlehem, Beit Sahour, Beit Jala, Battir, and al-Ubeidiya.

Central Bus Station: The Bethlehem City Mall located on Manger Street is the location of the main public transportation station (lower level) with shared taxis to various point in the West Bank.

Tourist Information Center: Located at the Visit Palestine Center, opposite the Central Bus Station (above the Roman Canal Souvenir Shop). Open Monday through Saturday 9 am - 5 pm.

Main Checkpoints: Below are the main checkpoints leading in and out of the Bethlehem Governorate. Please note that other checkpoints and periodic flying checkpoints might be encountered.

- Rachel Tomb Crossing "Checkpoint 300": Located at the main entrance to Bethlehem from Jerusalem - Mazmuriyeh Checkpoint: Connecting Jerusalem and Beit Sahour - The Tunnel Checkpoint: Located on route 60 connecting Beit Jala and Jerusalem - Wadi Al Nar "Container" Checkpoint: Connecting Bethlehem to northern West Bank - Gush Etzion Checkpoint: Located on route 60 connecting Bethlehem with Hebron

Passports: If you are visiting Bethlehem or the West Bank, please be sure to bring your passport as you will most likely have to pass through checkpoints while entering and existing.

Car Rental: If you prefer to rent a car during your visit, there are several options. (Note: If you are renting a car from an Israeli Car Orange Shared rental company, make sure they provide insurance coverage in Taxis (Servees): the West Bank): Public transport between - Option 1 - East Jerusalem Car Rental (yellow license Palestinian towns and villages. plates): These companies are your the best option. They are operated by Palestinians and based in East Jerusalem. These vehicles have yellow plates which allows you to travel freely across both Israel and Palestine. They also provide full Private Yellow insurance coverage throughout both destinations. Unfortunately, Taxis inside the West Bank. Ideal these companies do not have offices at the airport and do not for transportation offer airport pick up or drop off. You would most likely have to within the city or pick up your car in Jerusalem. town.

- Option 2- West Bank Car Rental (green license plate): If you rent a car from a West Bank based company (Bethlehem, East Jerusalem Ramallah), you will not be able to drive it into Israel. However, operated public buses. Connecting this is good option if you only plan to drive between Palestinian Jerusalem to towns and villages. Ramallah, Bethlehem, and - Option 3 - Israeli Car Rental Companies: (yellow license across East Jerusalem. plates) : There are many Israeli based car rental companies that offer pick up and drops off at airport. However, in most cases, the companies do not offer insurance coverage inside Palestinian areas.

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Getting to Bethlehem Hebron to Bethlehem Option 1 - Shared Taxi to Bethlehem (Bab el-Zqaq Jerusalem to Bethlehem Intersection): Take a shared taxi (servees) from the Hebron Option 1 - Bus no. 231: The bus departs from the Central Bus Station (located on Wadi Al Tufah Street) to the Bab Damascus Gate Bus Station in East Jerusalem (located on El-Zqaq intersection in Bethlehem. Price around 10 ILS. Duration: Sultan Suleiman Street) and travels via Beit Jala to Bethlehem. Approx. 30-45 minutes. Tickets cost around 8 ILS. Duration: Approx. 30-40 minutes. Note that this bus does not go through the main (checkpoint Option 2 - Shared Taxi to Bethlehem (central bus station): 300” (Rachel’s Tomb crossing). The bus will drop you off at the Take a shared taxi (servees) from the Central Bus Station in Bethlehem / Beit Jala intersection (“Bab el-Zqaq”) which is 1 km Hebron (located on Wadi Al Tufah Street) to the Bethlehem away from Manger Square. You can easily follow the Pope Paul Central Bus Station (located on Manger Square Street). Price VI Street to get to the Manger Square and the Church of the around 10 ILS. Duration: Approx.30-45 minutes. Nativity in 15 minutes. You can also take a taxi to Manger Square. Price around 15-20 ILS per drive (not per person). A Option 3 - Private Taxi : A private taxi from Hebron to Bethlehem shared taxi is also available and cost around 3 ILS. cost around 250 ILS ($65. Duration: Approx 30-45 minutes. )

Option 2 - Bus no. 234: The bus leaves from the Damascus Jericho to Bethlehem Gate Bus Station (located on Sultan Suleiman Street) and takes you directly to the Bethlehem Checkpoint – “checkpoint 300” Option 1 - Shared Taxi: Take a shared taxi (servees) from (Rachel’s Tomb crossing) and back. Tickets cost around 5 ILS. Jericho City Center to Bethlehem Central Bus Station (located Duration: Approx 20-30 minutes. You will have to walk through on Manger Square Street). The price is around 20-25 ILS. the checkpoint as you enter and exit Bethlehem. From the Duration: Approx. 45-60 minutes. checkpoint, you can either walk half an hour or take a private taxi (15-20 ILS) to the center of Bethlehem (Manger Square), Option 2 - Private Taxi - Via West Bank: A private taxi from which is about 2.5 km away. A shared taxi is also available and Jericho to Bethlehem (4 seats) costs around 150 ILS ($40). cost around 3 ILS. Duration: Approx. 1 hour

Option 3 - Private Taxi: A private taxi from Jerusalem to Option 3: Private Taxi - Via Jerusalem: A Private Taxi from Bethlehem city center will cost around 150-180 ILS ($50) in Jericho to Bethlehem (4 seats) costs around around 370 ILS each direction (up to 7 seats van). Duration: Approx. 20-30 ($100). Duration approx. 1 hour. minutes. Nablus to Bethlehem Option 4 - Private Taxi: A private taxi from Jerusalem to Option 1 - Shared Taxi to Ramallah and connecting to Bethlehem's Rachel's Tomb "checkpoint 300" will cost round Bethlehem: Take a shared taxi (servees) from Nablus Central 100-120 ILS ($30-35) and will drop you off outside of Station (located on Rafidiya Street), to the Ramallah Central Bus Bethlehem. You will then have to cross the checkpoint into Station (located on Al Nahda street). From there take another Bethlehem on foot and continue from there (see option 1 or 2). shared taxi to the Bethlehem Central Bus Station (located on

Manger Street). Price from Nablus to Ramallah around 17-20 ILS. Ramallah to Bethlehem Price from Ramallah to Bethlehem around 21-25 ILS. Duration: Approx 2 hours and a half. Option 1- Shared Taxi to Bethlehem: Take a shared taxi (servees) to Bethlehem from the Central Bus Station in Option 2 - Private Taxi - Via West Bank: A private taxi from Ramallah (located at Al-Nahda Street). The cost is around 21- Nablus to Bethlehem (4 seats) costs around 250 ILS ($70). 25 ILS. The taxi will stop at the main bus station in Bethlehem Duration approx 1 hour. (5 minutes walk from Manger Square). Duration: Approx. 45-60 minutes. Option 3: Private Taxi - Via Jerusalem : A private taxi from Nablus to Bethlehem via Jerusalem will cost around 740 ILS Option 2: Bus no. 218 to Jerusalem, then connect to ($200). Duration approx 2 hours. Bethlehem: Departs from Al-Nahda Street in Ramallah. Tickets cost around 8 ILS. The bus will drop you off at the Jenin to Bethlehem Damascus Gate bus station in East Jerusalem (located on Sultan Suleiman Street). From there, connect to Bethlehem Option 1 - Shared Taxi to Ramallah and connect to Bethlehem: (see getting from Jerusalem to Bethlehem). Duration: Approx. Take a shared taxi (servees) from Jenin Central Station (located on 45-60 minutes. Jama'a Street of Cinema street) to Ramallah Central Station (on Al Nahda Street). From there take another shared taxi to the Option 3- Private Taxi -Via West Bank: A private taxi from Bethlehem Central Bus Station. Price from Jenin to Ramallah Ramallah to Bethlehem (4 seats) costs around 150-170 ILS around 35 ILS. Price from Ramallah to Bethlehem around 21-25 ($40-45). ILS. Duration approx 3 hours and half.

Option 4: Private Taxi Via Jerusalem: A private taxi from Option 2 - Private Taxi - Via West Bank: A Private Taxi from Ramallah to Bethlehem will cost around 250 ILS ($70). Jenin to Bethlehem (4 seats) costs around around 450 ILS ($125). Duration approx. 30-45 minutes. Duration approx. 2 hours.

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Leaving from Bethlehem Bethlehem to Jericho Option 1 – Shared Taxi from Central Bus Station: Take Bethlehem to Jerusalem a shared taxi (servees) to Jericho City Center. Costs around 25 ILS. Duration: Approx. 80-90 minutes. Option 1 - From Checkpoint 300 (Rachel Tomb crossing): You will have to cross the checkpoint on foot and once Option 2 - Private Taxi - Via West Bank: A private taxi outside, take bus no.324 to Jerusalem. The trip costs around 5 from Bethlehem to Jericho will cost around 150 ILS (Appx ILS and runs directly from the checkpoint to the Damascus $40). Duration: Approx. 60 minutes. Gate Station in East Jerusalem (Located on Sultan Suleiman Street).Duration Approx 30 minutes. Option 3 - Private Taxi - via Jerusalem: A private taxi from Bethlehem to Jericho will cost around 320 ILS ($85). Option 2 - Bus no 231 From Bab el Zqaq intersection: The Duration: Approx. 45-60 minutes. bus no.231 from Bab el –Zqaq (intersection Beit Jala and Hebron-Jerusalem road) to the Damascus Gate Bus Station in East Jerusalem (located on Sultan Suleiman Street). Cost Bethlehem to Nablus (Via Ramallah) around 7 ILS . Duration: Approx 45 minutes. Option 1 - Shared Taxi to Ramallah and connecting to

Nablus: To get to Nablus from Bethlehem with public Option 3 - Private Taxi: A private taxi from Bethlehem to transportation you need to reach Ramallah first, and then Jerusalem costs around 150 ILS ($40). Duration: Approx 30 take the shared taxi to Nablus. Cost of ticket to Ramallah minutes. is around 25 ILS. Duration Approx. 45-60 minutes.

From the Ramallah Central Station (located on Al Nahda Bethlehem to Ramallah Street), take shared taxi to Nablus Central Bus Station Option 1 – Shared Taxi from Central Bus Station: Take a (located on located on Rafidiya Street. Cost around 20 ILS. shared taxi (servees) from the Central Bus Station in Duration: Approx. Bethlehem to Ramallah Central Station (located on Al Nahda Street). Cost around 21 ILS. Duration approx. 45-60 Option 2 - Private Taxi via West Bank: A private taxi minutes. from Bethlehem to Nablus will cost around 250 ILS ($70). Duration: Approx. Option 2 - Via Jerusalem to Ramallah From Jerusalem, take bus # 218 from the Damascus Gate Bethlehem to Jenin (via Ramallah) Bus station to the Ramallah Central Station (on Al Nahda Street). Cost around 8 ILS. Duration: Approx 30 minutes. Option 1 - Shared Taxi to Ramallah and connect to Jenin: To get to Jenin from Bethlehem with public Option 3 - Private Taxi - Via West Bank: A private taxi transportation you need to reach Ramallah first, and then from Bethlehem to Ramallah will cost around 160 ILS ($45). take the collective taxi to Jenin. Take a shared taxi (servees) from the Jenin Central Station (located on Option 4 - Private Taxi - Via Jerusalem: A private taxi from Jama'a Street and Cinema street). Cost of ticket to Bethlehem to Ramallah will cost around 300 ILS ($80). Ramallah is around 21 ILS. Duration: Approx. 45-60 minutes. From the Ramallah Central Station (Al Nahda Street), take Bethlehem to Hebron shared taxi to Jenin Central Bus Station. Cost around 35 ILS. Duration: Approx. 3 hours and half. Option 1- Shared taxi from Bab el-Zqaq Intersection:

Take a shared taxi (servees) from the Bab elZqaq Option 2 - Private Taxi via West Bank: A private taxi (intersection Beit Jala and Hebron-Jerusalem road) to the from Bethlehem to Jenin will cost around 450 ILS ( $120). Hebron Central Bus Station (located on Wadi Al Tufah Duration: Approx. 2 hours. Street). Cost around 10 ILS. Duration: approx 45 minutes. .

Option 2 - Shared taxi from Central bus Station: Take a shared taxi (servees) to the Hebron Central Bus Station (located on Wadi Al Tufah Street). Cost around 10 ILS. Duration: Approx. 45 minutes.

Option 3 - Private Taxi : A private taxi from Bethlehem to Hebron will cost around 250 ILS ($65). Duration: Approx. 30-45 minutes.

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Bethlehem in Pictures

Grotto of Nativity Mar Saba Monastery Old Quarters

Solomon Pools Shepherds Field Cremisan Monastery

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ABOUT THE VISIT PALESTINE CENTER

VisitPalestine.ps website is Palestine’s premier online destination guide. It offers visitors a wide range of tools and info rmation to help you plan and book your trip to Palestine. Our newly launched website brings many new features and a vast array of information on the hundreds of sites and attractions across Palestine.

The Visit Palestine Center, located in a beautifully renovated 200 year old building, is an offspring of the startup www.visitpalestine.ps that brought Palestine to the world wide web.

Visitor information can be obtained inside our center. We offer a wide range of insightful, helpful information, and tours across Palestine.

Boutique Gift Shop and Dajo Restaurant: The center also houses a boutique gift shop offering a wide assortment of products made in Palestine. The center is also home to Dajo restaurant and Cafe known for its outdoor terrace, its fresh salads and tasty sandwiches.

Location: Visit Palestine Center is located in one of the old quarters of Bethlehem next to St. Joseph School across the Central Bus Station (Bethlehem City Mall) above the Canal Souvenir Shop.

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Disclaimer: While we try to ensure that all the information in this guide is accurate and up-to-date, please note that prices for transportation (public and private) may change. Trip duration also might change due to traffic, congestion at checkpoint, erecting flying checkpoint, or general situation on the ground. For any further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us.