Bethlehem and Mar Saba Monastery Private Day Tour
Enjoy Bethlehem and the amazing Monastery of Mar Saba, one of the oldest continuously active Christian monasteries in the world located in the middle of nowhere, in the Judean Desert facing the Kidron Valley. Explore a city of biblical history from Kind Davids’ time to today’s life. Walk in the city’s quarters, learn about local olive oil production and handicrafts, visit the Church of Nativity, Shepherd’s Field, visit Aida refugee camp and see Banksy Graffiti’s.
Options
Bethlehem and Mar Saba Monastery Private Day Tour
What's included in Bethlehem and Mar Saba Monastery Private Day Tour
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Mar Saba Monastery
The day will begin with a drive in the suburb of Bethlehem to visit Mar Saba Monastery in the Judean Desert, built into the side of a cliff in the desert back in the Byzantine time and one of the largest and most historic Christian monasteries in the world. Only men are allowed to enter the sanctuary, however, with our private Mar Saba tour, women can enjoy the breath-taking view of the Jordan Valley and view the interior of the monastery from the base of the southern tower, which lies outside the walls.
Shepherd's Sanctuary
A short drive Beit Sahour. The historic town, whose name means “Place of the Night Watch”, in reference to the Shepherds who keep watch over their flock by night, lies 1km east of Bethlehem. In the past, the Canaanites inhabited its numerous caves, and today it is the home of many churches and convents. Churches now mark the sites of Shepherds Field, the Field of Ruth and the Well of the Lady. Visit the Shepherd’s Field, located in the town of Beit Sahour 2 km east of Bethlehem. The angels of the Lord appeared before shepherds bringing them good tidings of the birth of Jesus. Joined with a multitude of heavenly hosts, the angel sang ‘Glory to God in the Highest and on Earth, Peace among men.’
Star Street
Back to the Old City of Bethlehem and it’s quarters . We will walk the “Star Street“, Visit the Syriac Quarter; one of the old quarters of Bethlehem were the locals of Bethlehem live and we will stop by the old entrance of Bethlehem; it’s believed that Joseph and Mary passed coming from Nazareth to Bethlehem.
Inclusions
- Private Tour Guide
- Pickup from Bethlehem 300 Checkpoint or your hotel inside Bethlehem
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Fuel surcharge
- Pickup/drop off in Jerusalem
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Public transportation to the meeting point
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Once you get off the bus or the taxi, walk through the checkpoint building (Follow the sign) to cross to Bethlehem's side where I'll meet you. Everyone there is either crossing to Bethlehem or coming from Bethlehem so it's easy to find your way. You can always ask anyone for help if you need it.