Jerusalem and Bethlehem mark the two most important stations in the life of Jesus – his birth and his resurrection. This specially designed tour will lead you to key locations in both sites and review the Israel-Palestinian conflict. The tour of Bethlehem will be led by a Palestinian guide.
Start your day by visiting the Church of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Since the 4th century, this pivotal site marks Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. Ascend the steps to the Calvary (Golgotha), where the cross is believed to have stood, and the stone of anointing, where the body of Jesus was prepared for burial. Descend to the Chapel of the Finding of the Cross, and the Greek-Orthodox office showcasing relics of diverse saints. The visit culminates with entering the tomb of Jesus, the site of his burial and resurrection.
A sacred path leading to the church marks where Jesus walked following his trial and condemnation. Known as the Stations of the Cross (Via Dolorosa), this path passes through the Muslim and Christian quarters’ bazaar (suq). Walk along this path, reflecting on the sacred events, and head to Bethlehem.
The Palestinian guide will meet and greet you at the border crossing point and will lead you into Bethlehem. After a lunch break explore the Church of the Nativity. This architectural marvel, adorned with Crusader-era murals and mosaics, houses the crypt marking Jesus’s birth spot. Reach the Star of Bethlehem and ee the manger used as Jesus’ baby bed.
A short drive east of Bethlehem takes you to the Shepherds’ Field. By local tradition, this is where the shepherds camped when they heard of the birth of Jesus. A Catholic tent-shaped chapel from the 1950s marks the site, built among caves once used for livestock. The pastoral landscape offers a serene setting for contemplation and reflection on the event.
On your return to Jerusalem, consider visiting an olive wood workshop crafting Christian-themed souvenirs. If time permits, you can also visit Rachal’s Tomb, a Jewish pilgrimage destination commemorating Rachel’s burial and death at birth.
