Best Things to do in Bethlehem | Must-see attractions 2025

Church of the Nativity

5:00 AM–7:00 PM

Church

Manger Square .15 minutes walking from bus 231

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Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is a historic 4th-century church believed to be built over the birthplace of Jesus Christ, a significant pilgrimage site.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

$20 for a Guided 'Skip the Line' group tour.

Palestinian Heritage Center

9:00 AM–2:00 PM

Museum

Manger Street

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The Palestinian Heritage Center in Bethlehem showcases Palestinian culture through crafts, traditional clothing, and historical artifacts.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Holy Lavra of Saint Sabbas

Th, Sa-Tu 00:00-24:00

Church

Juda Desert

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Holy Lavra of Saint Sabbas, founded in 439 CE, is one of the oldest Greek Orthodox monasteries, located near Bethlehem, overlooking the Kidron Valley.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged for maintenance.

Church of Saint Catherine

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Manger St. (Manger Sq.)

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Church of Saint Catherine in Bethlehem is a Latin parish church next to the Church of the Nativity, known for its atmospheric Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may incur additional fees.

Annunciation Latin Parish

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Church

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Annunciation Latin Parish in Bethlehem is a Roman Catholic church known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and connection to the Nativity story.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed to support church activities.

St. Mary Church for Greek Orthodox

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church of Beit Jala

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St. Mary Church for Greek Orthodox in Bethlehem features Byzantine architecture and religious significance, attracting visitors interested in history and spirituality.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Carmel of the Holy Child Jesus

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

119 Jamal Abdel Nasser St.

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Carmel of the Holy Child Jesus in Bethlehem features a monastery founded in 1876 and a chapel blessed in 1892, honoring the legacy of St. Mary of Jesus Crucified.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for maintenance and support.

Bethlehem University

8:00 AM–4:00 PM

University

Palestine

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Bethlehem University is the first university in the West Bank, established in 1973. It offers a diverse range of academic programs with a focus on cultural and social values.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

HaSolelim Forest Reserve

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

National Park

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HaSolelim Forest Reserve is a national park located in Bethlehem, Palestinian Territory, offering diverse flora and fauna within its serene landscape.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free.

Chapel of the Shepherd's Field

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Beit Sahour. Beit Sahour

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Located in Beit Sahur, near Bethlehem, the Chapel of the Shepherd's Field commemorates the spot where shepherds witnessed the angel's announcement of Jesus' birth.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations may be accepted for special events.

Bethlehem Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Jerusalem-Hebron Street

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Bethlehem Museum highlights Palestine's heritage and art, showcasing over 200 years of history within a traditional 19th-century Palestinian home.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Omar Bin Al-Khatab Mosque

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Monument

Bethlehem

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Omar Bin Al-Khatab Mosque in Bethlehem is a historic Islamic site, founded in 634 AD, offering rich cultural and architectural heritage in Palestinian Territory.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Pope Paul VI St. 109

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Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church in Bethlehem is a historic church founded in 1893, known for its unique architecture and strong ties to the Christian community.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated during events.

Baraka Presbyterian Church

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

Bethlehem

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Baraka Presbyterian Church, located in Bethlehem, Palestinian Territory, is a vibrant center of faith and community, emphasizing spiritual growth and social outreach.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations for community programs are welcomed.

Street Mall

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Mall

Israel

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Street Mall in Bethlehem offers diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment options, reflecting the vibrant culture of the region with a modern design.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Specific events or attractions may require a paid ticket.

Milk Grotto

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Close to Manger Square

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The Milk Grotto Chapel in Bethlehem is a Catholic chapel built in 1872. It commemorates the site where Mary reportedly nursed Jesus during their flight to Egypt.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free entry. Donations are welcome but not required.

St. Nickolas Orthodox Church

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Palestine

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St. Nickolas Orthodox Church in Bethlehem, Palestinian Territory, is renowned for its rich history and Byzantine architecture, drawing visitors interested in cultural heritage.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and preservation efforts.

NoorWEG

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Event hall

Aida Refugee Camp

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NoorWEG in Bethlehem offers a unique cultural experience, blending art, history, and community-focused events to engage visitors in Palestinian heritage.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special workshops and events may require a paid ticket.

Israel Mall

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Mall

Talpiyot

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Israel Mall in Bethlehem offers diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment options in a modern facility, attracting locals and tourists alike.

Duration: Around 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events or promotions may require a paid ticket.

Bethlehem Convention Palace and Auditorium

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Event hall

Bethlehem

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Bethlehem Convention Palace and Auditorium hosts diverse events, encompassing culture and politics within its modern architectural design, serving as a central venue in Palestinian Territory.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require tickets.