Vacation Packages to Bethlehem

General Information About Bethlehem

Belén, also known as Bethlehem, is a city in the West Bank, Palestine, located about 10 kilometers south of Jerusalem. It has a population of approximately 30,000 people, mostly Palestinian Arabs.

Bethlehem is a significant religious site for Christians, as it is believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ.

The city is home to several historic and religious landmarks, including the Church of the Nativity, which is one of the oldest surviving Christian churches in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church is built over the cave where Jesus is said to have been born, and it is a major destination for Christian pilgrims.

In addition to its religious significance, Bethlehem is also known for its handicrafts, particularly olive wood carvings and embroidery. The city's economy is heavily dependent on tourism, and it is a popular destination for visitors to the region.

However, the city has been subject to ongoing conflict and political tensions due to its location in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Bethlehem is currently under the control of the Palestinian Authority, but it is surrounded by a separation wall built by Israel, which restricts the movement of people and goods in and out of the city.

Sites of Interest in Bethlehem

Bethlehem is a significant religious site for Christians as it is believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Here are some of the most notable sites of interest in Belén:

1. Church of the Nativity: This is one of the oldest surviving Christian churches in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church is built over the cave where Jesus is said to have been born, and it is a major destination for Christian pilgrims.

2. Manger Square: This is the central square in Bethlehem, located in front of the Church of the Nativity. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and there are many shops, cafes, and restaurants in the area.

3. Milk Grotto: This is a Christian chapel and pilgrimage site located near the Church of the Nativity. It is believed to be the site where the Holy Family stopped to rest during their flight to Egypt, and it is said that drops of Mary’s milk fell on the ground, turning the stones white.

4. Shepherd’s Field: This is a site located just outside Bethlehem that is believed to be the place where the shepherds heard the news of Jesus' birth. There is a church on the site, as well as a small museum and gift shop.

5. The Wall: Bethlehem is surrounded by a separation wall built by Israel, which restricts the movement of people and goods in and out of the city. The wall is covered in graffiti and street art, and it has become a symbol of the ongoing conflict in the region. Many tour companies offer guided tours of the wall and its murals.

Typical Food and Drinks of Bethlehem

Bethlehem is a city in the West Bank, Palestine, and its cuisine is heavily influenced by the Palestinian and Levantine culinary traditions. 

Here are some of the typical foods of Bethlehem: Musakhan, a traditional Palestinian dish made with roasted chicken, onions, sumac, and pine nuts, served on top of flatbread,  Maqluba, a one-pot dish made with rice, chicken, and vegetables, such as eggplant, cauliflower, and potatoes, that are layered and cooked together.

Also, some typical foods is Knafeh, a sweet and cheesy pastry made with shredded phyllo dough, cheese, and a sweet syrup made with rose water, and Falafel: Deep-fried balls made with chickpeas and herbs, usually served in a pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.

We also recommend you to try Hummus, a dip made with mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, served with bread or vegetables.

And you can’t leave Belén without trying the Arabic coffee, a strong, brewed coffee that is served in small cups and often flavored with cardamom, and Sage tea, a fragrant and soothing tea made with fresh sage leaves, hot water, and a touch of honey.

Also, you will find there Fresh juices. Bethlehem is known for its fresh-squeezed juices, which are often made with local fruits like pomegranates, oranges, and grapefruits.

Celebrations of Bethlehem

The city celebrates several religious and cultural events throughout the year, including:

1. Christmas: The Christmas season is a significant celebration in Bethlehem, as it is believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ. The city is decorated with lights and decorations, and there are numerous events, including parades, concerts, and religious ceremonies.
2. Easter: Easter is another important religious holiday celebrated in Bethlehem. The city hosts a range of events, including processions, services, and other religious observances.
3. Bethlehem International Festival: This is an annual festival held in August that celebrates Palestinian culture through music, dance, food, and art. The festival attracts visitors from around the world and features a range of performances and exhibitions.
4. Olive Harvest Festival: Held in October, this festival celebrates the local olive harvest and the important role of olives in Palestinian cuisine and culture. The festival includes music, dance, food, and other cultural activities.
5. Bethlehem Marathon: This annual event is held in March and attracts runners from around the world. The course passes through many of the city's significant landmarks, including the Church of the Nativity and Manger Square.
6. Independence Day: Celebrated on November 15, this day commemorates the Palestinian Declaration of Independence in 1988. The city hosts parades, cultural events, and other celebrations to mark the occasion.

What to Give as a Gift If You Travel to Bethlehem

If you are traveling to Bethlehem, you may want to consider giving a gift that represents the culture and traditions of the city. 

Some good ideas for gifts to give when visiting Belén include olive oil, due Palestine is known for its high-quality olive oil, and it is a staple in Palestinian cuisine, so you can find locally produced olive oil in many shops in Belén, and Handicrafts: The city is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as ceramics, embroidery, and weaving. 

These items can make unique and thoughtful gifts, and you can find them in local markets and shops.

Also, an interesting gift could be Palestinian embroidery. Traditional Palestinian embroidery is an intricate and beautiful art form that is often used to decorate clothing and household items. You can find embroidered pieces, such as scarves or handkerchiefs, in local markets and shops.

A great option is buying Spices and herbs. Palestinian cuisine features a range of spices and herbs, such as sumac and zaatar. These can make unique and flavorful gifts, and you can find them in local markets and spice shops.

Also there are many shops in Bethlehem that sell souvenir items, such as keychains, magnets, and t-shirts, that feature images and symbols of the city, such as the Church of the Nativity.

To finish, an interesting choice is Palestinian music or books. Palestinian music and literature can provide an insight into the culture and history of the region. You can find CDs, books, and other media in local shops or bookstores.

How Is the Culture in Bethlehem?

The culture of Bethlehem is shaped by a rich history and a diverse population. The city is significant to Christians as it is believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ, and it is home to many religious sites and traditions. 

Christianity is the predominant religion in Bethlehem, and the city is an important pilgrimage site for Christians from around the world. There are many churches, monasteries, and other religious sites in the city.

Also, as for arts and crafts, Bethlehem is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as ceramics, embroidery, and weaving. Palestinian embroidery is particularly renowned for its intricate and colorful designs.

Palestinian music and dance are an important part of the cultural traditions in Bethlehem. The dabke is a traditional dance that is often performed at weddings and other celebrations. 

As for the language, Arabic is the primary language spoken in Bethlehem, although many people also speak English.

Family and community are important cultural values in Bethlehem, and social life often revolves around gatherings with friends and relatives. Respect for elders and hospitality to guests are important cultural values.

Overall, the culture in Bethlehem is a mix of religious, historical, and contemporary influences, and reflects the city’s unique place in Palestinian and Christian traditions.

What to See and Do in Bethlehem

Bethlehem stands out for its incredible history and its religious places that make of this city an incredible destination for the most curious travelers.

In turn, due to its proximity to Galilee and Cesarea, many travelers combine their trip to Bethlehem with these destinations, which is why you will find these sites in several of our offers.

Are you looking to marvel at the most incredible architectural jewels? Do you want to see impressive religious sites? Do you want to taste exquisite cuisine?

If your answer is "yes", in Greca we have several proposals for tourist packages to Bethlehem, which you can modify and adapt according to your needs and times.

There are travel packages for all tastes. Choose your own adventure according to your needs!