Palestine
Bethlehem
Bethlehem is a small city in the West Bank, about 10 km from Jerusalem, and the capital of its governorate. Its name means "house of bread," making it fun to learn about the story behind it.
Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
- Gateway airport
- Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)
- Best season
- Apr–Jun, Oct–Dec
- Time zone
- Asia/Gaza
- Sights covered
- 44 places
Sights worth seeing
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Temples & religious sites
Al-Aqsa Mosque
Al-Aqsa Mosque, with its silver dome, stands at the southern end of the Temple Mount and is counted among Islam's three holiest sites alongside Mecca and Medina. Built in the 8th century, it is a storied structure that also bears the marks of the Crusader era.
Museums & galleries
Israel Museum
Israel's national museum, located in Jerusalem and opened in 1965. Nearby, the Bible Lands Museum and archaeological institutes cluster together to form a cultural district worth exploring.
Temples & religious sites
Dome of the Rock
This Islamic holy site stands atop the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, built by the Umayyad dynasty in the 7th century and restored several times since. It ranks among the oldest surviving works of Islamic architecture, giving it great historical significance.
Heritage & monuments
Western Wall
A remaining section of the ancient temple's western wall, located on the eastern side of Jerusalem's Old City. Sacred to both Judaism and Islam, it draws many pilgrims and travelers.
Shopping & districts
East Jerusalem
East Jerusalem is the eastern part of the city, internationally recognized as Palestinian territory. It has been under effective Israeli control since the Third Arab-Israeli War, giving it a complicated history.
Museums & galleries
The Temple Institute
Run by an organization dedicated to building a third Jewish temple on the Temple Mount, this site displays plans and materials related to the temple's reconstruction.
Temples & religious sites
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
This Christian church in the Old City of Jerusalem is regarded as the site commemorating the resurrection of Christ. Its long history of faith draws pilgrims and travelers alike.
Temples & religious sites
Temple Mount
The Temple Mount, located in Jerusalem's Old City, is Judaism's holiest site, where Solomon's Temple and other ancient temples once stood. It remains an iconic destination that continues to draw pilgrims and travelers alike.
How many days do you need?
Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.
Average temperature by month
5-year average
Getting there
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Getting around the city
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Fares and timetables change often, so we don't list them here. Check the operator or the booking site for current prices and schedules.
Bethlehem Tours & Experiences Booking
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Where to stay
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Guides by theme
Best value
How to find the best value accommodation in Bethlehem
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5-star & luxury
Where to find luxury accommodations in Bethlehem, Palestine
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Pool villas & resorts
How to choose a pool villa or resort in Bethlehem
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Family travel
How to choose the best area for a family stay in Bethlehem
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Couples & honeymoon
Where to stay in Bethlehem for couples and honeymooners
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Central & near stations
Where to stay in Bethlehem for central access and transport
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Best time to visit
When is the best time to visit Bethlehem, Palestine?
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First-time guide
How to plan your first visit to Bethlehem
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Getting around
How to get around Bethlehem and travel from Ben Gurion Airport
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