Jesus was certainly born 2,000 years too early. Finding a hostel in Bethlehem would not be a problem today, in all price segments. Today, Bethlehem is literally teeming with accommodation and hotels and many of them are within walking distance of the historic Manger Square. For example, the Assaraya Palace Hotel.
It is less than 1.6 km from Rachel’s Tomb and 1.9 km from Manger Square.
Rated on a scale of 10, it has an average guest rating of 7.9. One night for two people only costs €74.27.
Bethlehem, the city of the Christmas story, now thrives not only on pilgrims and tourists, but also on a surprisingly diverse gastronomy scene. Between the Church of the Nativity and the narrow streets of the old town, restaurants, bars and cafés have established themselves that weave tradition and modernity together.
Afteem Restaurant in Manger Square is famous for its falafel – a culinary landmark that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Classic cafés such as Bonjour or Viendo offer oriental cuisine alongside international dishes and are meeting places for locals and guests.
The Barrel and OTTO bring a touch of urban bar culture to the old town. Here you meet young people from Bethlehem who enjoy the evening with beer or pizza.
Wij Al Amar and Rewined M&D focus on wine and cocktails – a contrast to traditional tea culture.
And then there is the inn that only exists in the imagination: that of the descendants of the innkeeper who once turned away Mary and Joseph. There is a sign above the door: “To the last available room – fully booked for 2000 years.”
The menu plays with the legend:
• “Shepherd’s platter” with bread, olives and cheese.
• “Star of Bethlehem” as a shimmering gold liqueur.
• “No room in the room,” a dish that is always “sold out.”
With all due respect to the believers: Bethlehem’s gastronomy today is a lively mix of culinary tradition, modern bar culture and the stories that have shaped the city for thousands of years. Anyone who stops by here will not only find food and drink, but also a piece of living legend.
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