New Jerusalem & Bethlehem
History & Faith Tour
Tour Overview |
Step into the story of the first chapters of the New Testament on this private tour to New Jerusalem and Bethlehem. Explore the traditional birthplace of John the Baptist, follow the meeting between the Virgin Mary and Elizabeth, and discover the places connected to the birth of Jesus Christ. Along the way, visit the renowned Israel Museum, home to the Second Temple Model of Jerusalem, the famous Dead Sea Scrolls, and one of the country's finest archaeological collections, providing valuable historical context to the biblical events you'll experience throughout the day. Led by a licensed local tour guide, this private experience combines biblical history, archaeology, and Christian tradition, allowing you to explore at your own pace while gaining a deeper understanding of the events surrounding the birth of Jesus and John the Baptist. |
New Jerusalem & Bethlehem Tour Itinerary |
We begin the day with a drive to Ein Karem, a picturesque village nestled in the hill country of Judah and traditionally identified as the birthplace of John the Baptist. Our first stop is the Church of the Visitation, commemorating the meeting between the Virgin Mary and her cousin Elizabeth. According to the Gospel of Luke, it was here that Mary proclaimed the Magnificat after Elizabeth recognized her as the mother of the Messiah. A short walk brings us to the Church of St. John in the Mountains, built over the traditional birthplace of John the Baptist. Here, we'll explore the story of John's miraculous birth and learn about Zechariah's hymn of praise, the Benedictus, recorded after his speech was restored. From Ein Karem, we continue to the Israel Museum, one of the country's most important cultural institutions. We'll begin with the impressive Second Temple Model of Jerusalem, offering a fascinating reconstruction of the city as it appeared around 66 AD, shortly before its destruction by the Romans. We'll then visit the Shrine of the Book, home to some of the original Dead Sea Scrolls, before exploring highlights of the museum's remarkable archaeological collection, featuring artifacts that illuminate thousands of years of biblical and regional history. Our journey then continues to Bethlehem, the City of David and the birthplace of Jesus Christ. We first visit the Shepherds' Field, where, according to the Gospel of Luke, the angels announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds watching over their flocks. Our visit continues to the Manger Square & the adjacent Church of the Nativity, recognized as one of the oldest continuously operating churches in the world and traditionally believed to mark the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Descending to the Grotto of the Nativity, visitors have the opportunity to see the revered location where, according to Christian tradition, Jesus was born. This UNESCO World Heritage Site remains one of the most cherished destinations for Christians from every corner of the globe.
During the tour, we will also have the opportunity to visit a local cooperative specializing in traditional olive wood craftsmanship, where you can learn about this unique Bethlehem tradition and, if you wish, purchase authentic handmade souvenirs directly from local artisans. The tour concludes with the drive back to Jerusalem. |
Key Sites |
✔️ Ein Karem ✔️ Church of the Visitation ✔️ Church of St. John in the Mountains ✔️ Israel Museum ✔️ Second Temple Model of Jerusalem ✔️ Shrine of the Book (Dead Sea Scrolls) ✔️ Archaeological Wing of the Israel Museum ✔️ Bethlehem ✔️ Shepherds' Field ✔️ Manger Square ✔️ Church of the Nativity ✔️ Grotto of the Nativity |
Why Choose This New Jerusalem & Bethlehem Tour? |
Experience the opening chapters of the New Testament as they come to life on this private journey through Ein Karem, Jerusalem, and Bethlehem. From the meeting of Mary and Elizabeth to the birthplaces of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ, this tour follows the remarkable events that prepared the way for Christ's ministry while allowing you to visit the sacred places where these stories unfolded. Beyond its biblical significance, this tour offers a unique blend of faith, history, and archaeology. At the Israel Museum, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the world of the Bible through the Second Temple Model of Jerusalem, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and an exceptional archaeological collection. Led by a licensed local tour guide, you'll enjoy insightful explanations, a flexible pace, and a personalized experience that brings Scripture, history, and tradition together in a meaningful way. |
Why Travelers Love This Tour? |
✔️ Walk through the places where the stories of the births of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ unfolded. ✔️ Visit the Church of the Nativity and pray at the traditional birthplace of Jesus in the Grotto of the Nativity. ✔️ Explore the Israel Museum, including the Second Temple Model of Jerusalem, the Shrine of the Book, and its outstanding archaeological collection. ✔️ Enjoy breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings in the charming village of Ein Karem. ✔️ Enjoy a private tour with a licensed local guide, allowing you to explore at your own pace while gaining a deeper understanding of the biblical, historical, and archaeological significance of each site. |
Frequently Asked Questions |
How long does the New Jerusalem & Bethlehem Tour last? The tour typically lasts 8–9 hours, allowing enough time to comfortably explore Ein Karem, the Israel Museum, and Bethlehem while enjoying detailed explanations, moments for prayer and reflection, and free time at the main sites. Is this a private tour? Yes. This is a private tour, allowing you to explore at your own pace while enjoying a personalized experience tailored to your interests and schedule. How much walking is involved? This tour involves a moderate amount of walking through Ein Karem, the Israel Museum, and Bethlehem. Visitors should be comfortable walking on uneven stone streets, gentle slopes, and within museum galleries. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. What should I wear? As this tour visits several churches and holy sites, modest clothing is recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered when entering places of worship. Comfortable footwear is also highly recommended, and we suggest bringing a hat and a bottle of water during the warmer months. Is the entrance to the Israel Museum included? Yes. Entrance to the Israel Museum, including the Second Temple Model of Jerusalem, the Shrine of the Book, and the archaeological galleries, is included in the tour price. Do I need a passport to visit Bethlehem?
Yes, you do. Since Bethlehem is located in the Palestinian Authority, travelers should carry their passport with them, as identification may occasionally be requested at the checkpoint. Crossing is usually straightforward for most international visitors. Is Bethlehem safe to visit?
Yes. Bethlehem welcomes thousands of pilgrims and visitors every year and is one of the Holy Land's most visited destinations. Your licensed local tour guide will accompany you throughout the visit, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. In which languages is this tour available? This tour is available in English, Spanish, Arabic, Hebrew, and Indonesian, and is led by a licensed local tour guide. How can I book this tour? You can book your New Jerusalem & Bethlehem Tour directly through the contact form on this website, by WhatsApp, or by email. You can also click the "Request a Quote" button. I'll be happy to answer your questions and help you plan your visit to the Holy Land. |
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Stella Chao
I’m from Taiwan. We are lucky to have Tareq as our tour guide. He is not only professional but also funny, kind, and humorous. You can ask him anything and he will give you a subjunctive answer. He lives and raise in Jerusalem, so he definitely have the authority to show you around the holy land. Plus he probably knows bible, Torah and Quran from back to back.
Safwan Zaheer
Super amazing Tourguide, truly was just fun and stunnI had an opportunity to join a tour that was led by Tareq Hawari. Tareq did a phenomenal job overall leading the tour. We benefited from his knowledge of the area and deep history of all holy sites. I highly recommend Tareq as a tour guide.ing, learning, jumping, laughing and crying together. Every step was memorable.
Ariska Marais
Super amazing Tourguide, truly was just fun and stunning, learning, jumping, laughing and crying together. Every step was memorable.
