Overview
Celebrate Christmas Eve in Jerusalem with stunning views from the Mount of Olives, a tour of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and a journey to Bethlehem for a festive dinner and Midnight Mass in the Church of Nativity or Manger Square. Join us for a magical night of celebration.
About this activity
Languages
English
Departure days
Sunday,
Pickup included
Pickup and drop off from a close by hotel
Highlights
Full description
Celebrate the enchantment of Christmas Eve in Bethlehem with a tour that begins with a captivating journey through Jerusalem's timeless landmarks. Our adventure commences as we stand atop the iconic Mount of Olives, gazing out over the Kidron Valley towards the resplendent Old City. From this vantage point, we are treated to a breathtaking panorama of the cityscape, with the golden Dome of the Rock gleaming in the distance. Descending the Mount of Olives, we pass by the serene Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus sought solace in prayer after the poignant Last Supper and where his momentous arrest unfolded.
Our Christmas in Bethlehem tour guides us into the heart of Jerusalem's Old City, where we make our way to the majestic Church of the Holy Sepulcher. This hallowed sanctuary encompasses the final Stations of the Cross, where Jesus endured the crucifixion and was tenderly laid to rest in a burial tomb. Erected in 326 AD to safeguard these sacred sites, the Sepulchre is a testament to centuries of devotion. Within its walls, we behold the sacred Rock of Calvary, the Stone of Unction, and the very burial tomb of Jesus.
Leaving the Old City behind, our Christmas Eve tour transports us through modern-day Jerusalem, passing by landmarks such as the Israel Museum, the Shrine of the Book, and the Knesset, as we make our way toward Bethlehem. At the Hill of Evil Counsel, we savor panoramic views of Jerusalem aglow with the night's enchantment. Our journey continues, carrying us into the heart of Bethlehem.
Upon arrival in Bethlehem, the air is imbued with the spirit of Christmas, with streets adorned in radiant lights and festive decorations. We pause for refreshments and then proceed to the iconic Manger Square. As the midnight hour draws near, we partake in a heartwarming Christmas Eve dinner in close proximity to Manger Square. At the stroke of midnight, our tour offers two enchanting options: either entering the Church of the Nativity for Mass or witnessing Midnight Mass screened on large screens within the square itself. The Christmas Eve Midnight Mass in Manger Square is a profoundly moving experience, where the atmosphere is nothing short of magical.
Following Midnight Mass, our Christmas tour bids farewell to Bethlehem and embarks on its return journey to the tour's original pick-up points. This unique Bethlehem tour, a cherished annual tradition held only on Christmas Eve, offers an all-inclusive experience, encompassing transportation, expert tour guidance, entrance fees, and a heartwarming Christmas Eve dinner. Join us for this unforgettable celebration of Christmas in the historic city of Bethlehem.
