A Holy Christmas in Jerusalem & Bethlehem with Dinner

Celebrating Christmas in the very places where it all began sounds like a dream, and this tour promises just that — a guided journey through Jerusalem and Bethlehem topped with a festive dinner and a view of Midnight Mass. While it’s not a perfect experience, it offers a unique way to soak in the holiday spirit amidst sacred sites and stunning panoramas.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the guided tours in Jerusalem provide a chance to see iconic spots like the Old City and the Knesset with knowledgeable guides. Second, the panoramic views from Mount of Olives give visitors breathtaking vistas of the city and its valleys. Third, the chance to experience Christmas in Bethlehem, including a festive dinner and outdoor Mass screening, combines spiritual reverence with cultural celebration.

However, some travelers have noted disappointments with the dinner arrangement and possible logistical hiccups around timing and organization. This tour is best suited for those willing to embrace a mix of sacred sites, scenic views, and a bit of holiday unpredictability, especially if you’re interested in visiting these key locations with a group and guided support.

Key Points

• Guided tours in Jerusalem and Bethlehem offer rich insights from experienced guides.
• Stunning panoramic views from Mount of Olives and Evil Mountain enhance the experience.
• The festive dinner in Bethlehem provides a taste of local hospitality alongside holiday cheer.
• Watching Midnight Mass on outdoor screens gives a communal, spiritual feel without needing to attend in person.
• The tour involves organized transport and crossing into Palestinian territory, which requires proper documentation.
• It’s best suited for those without mobility restrictions and who are comfortable with some logistical variability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with Jerusalem: Captivating Views and Historic Sites

The tour kicks off with a scenic drive up to the Mount of Olives, offering a chance to gaze over Jerusalem’s sprawling Old City, with its ancient walls, domes, and minarets. For many, this is a highlight — the panoramic vantage point allows you to understand the city’s layout and appreciate its spiritual significance.

From there, a short drive takes you around the Old City walls, where you’ll get sweeping views of the Kidron Valley and the Garden of Gethsemane, adding visual context to the religious sites you’ll visit later. This part of the tour is ideal for photography lovers or anyone wanting a quick dose of Jerusalem’s layered history.

Entering the Old City itself, you’ll participate in a short walking tour through major landmarks, including the famous Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Here, the guides usually share compelling stories about the site’s significance, though the depth of the tour might depend on the guide’s style and the size of your group.

Visiting the Knesset and Other Jerusalem Highlights

While the main focus is religious sites, the tour also includes a drive past the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, providing a glimpse into the political heart of the country. This adds an educational dimension for those interested in the broader cultural landscape beyond the biblical sites.

Transition to Bethlehem: Scenic Drive and Iconic Views

After exploring Jerusalem, the tour crosses into the West Bank, heading toward Bethlehem. On the way, visitors stop at Evil Mountain (also known as Mount of Temptation), where the scenery is as impressive as the history. This stop offers an illuminated panoramic view of Bethlehem, giving you a sense of the city’s layout and its proximity to Jerusalem.

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Bethlehem: Christmas Atmosphere and Local Charm

Once in Bethlehem, the tour shifts to a festive mood. Shoppers and souvenir hunters often enjoy browsing authentic Christmas stores, which are part of the local charm. Guests usually have light refreshments, giving a chance to soak in the holiday atmosphere.

The highlight is the festive dinner at a nearby restaurant, where many travelers find the experience mixed. According to one reviewer, the dinner was “like coming to school again,” with trays of food that weren’t particularly appealing. The restaurant’s close proximity to the church is convenient, but some guests felt the meal could have been more satisfying.

Watching Midnight Mass on Outdoor Screens

In the evening, everyone heads to Mangers Square, where the Midnight Mass is broadcast on outdoor screens. This communal experience allows visitors to feel part of the Christmas celebrations, even if they don’t attend the service at the church itself. It’s a special moment to share the holiday with fellow travelers, especially in a place so central to Christian traditions.

Practical Details and Logistics

Transportation and Schedule

The tour includes air-conditioned coach transport, making the journey comfortable, especially in winter weather. The pickup and drop-off points are conveniently located in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Herzliya, though the exact meeting point in Bethlehem is set by the guide.

Crossing into Palestinian territory involves a change of vehicle, and a valid passport is required. Guides meet at the border, and the entire process is generally straightforward but does require some patience.

Duration and Group Size

While specific timing isn’t provided, expect a full-day experience, likely starting early in the morning and concluding in the evening with the outdoor Mass viewing. The group size isn’t mentioned, but tours like this tend to have a moderate number of participants, which can be a plus for personal interaction.

Cost and Value

At $125 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience combining history, scenery, and Christmas festivities. The price covers entry fees, a professional guide, transportation, and the dinner, but not additional food or drinks. Considering the cost of private tours or visiting these sites independently, it’s a reasonable way to see the highlights with expert commentary, especially during the busy holiday season.

Important Considerations

• Modest dress is required, particularly when visiting religious sites.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 4 or wheelchair users.
• Be prepared for possible changes to the schedule due to Palestinian Authority regulations.
• Keep your passport handy, and plan for a change of vehicle at the border.

What Reviewers Say

One guest praised guide Amir for his knowledge and engaging storytelling but noted that the dinner was disappointing, likening it to a school cafeteria tray. Another reviewer pointed out that dinner was chaotic, with long queues and uncertainty about seating, leading some to dine elsewhere.

The overall sentiment is that the Jerusalem portion is very rewarding thanks to the guided commentary and views, but the Bethlehem dinner might not satisfy everyone. The outdoor Mass viewing, however, is a memorable way to end the day, especially if you’re keen to experience Christmas in a community setting.

Who Would This Tour Suit Best?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a guided, structured day in Jerusalem and Bethlehem during Christmas, especially if they want insightful commentary and scenic views. It suits those interested in religious sites, cultural festivities, and holiday traditions. Be mindful that the dinner component might not match gourmet expectations, and logistical aspects like border crossing require patience.

It’s an ideal choice for history buffs, religious travelers, or holiday enthusiasts who want a meaningful, group-oriented experience. Given the mix of sights, stories, and celebrations, it’s best suited for those who are flexible, open-minded, and eager to be part of a shared Christmas experience in the Holy Land.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t recommended for children under 4, likely due to the length and nature of the schedule.

What should I wear on this tour?
Modest dress is required, especially when visiting religious sites. Comfortable shoes are also advisable for walking around the Old City and Bethlehem.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, a valid passport is necessary to cross into Palestinian territory.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes entry fees, a professional guide, transport by air-conditioned coach, the festive dinner in Bethlehem, and hotel pick-up and drop-off at designated points.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is the dinner portion worth it?
Reviews suggest the dinner may be underwhelming, with some guests describing it as not very appetizing and chaotic in organization.

Will I see the Midnight Mass in person?
No, the Mass is broadcast on outdoor screens in Mangers Square, allowing you to experience the celebration in a communal setting.

Are guides provided in both Jerusalem and Bethlehem?
Yes, a guide meets you at the border in Bethlehem, but a different guide in Bethlehem might approach the visit with a different style from Jerusalem.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compelling way to experience Christmas in the spiritual heart of the Holy Land. The combination of guided city explorations, scenic views, and the festive atmosphere of Bethlehem makes it appealing for those wanting a meaningful holiday experience. While the dinner may not be gourmet, the overall day is filled with memorable moments, rich stories, and beautiful vistas.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value guided insights and scenic panoramas over fine dining, and who are comfortable with some logistical steps like border crossings. If you’re eager to be part of Christmas celebrations in Jerusalem and Bethlehem, this tour provides an accessible, group-oriented way to do so.

You can check availability for your dates here: