Nazareth

This Muslim Friendly Travel Guide is part of eHalal.io Travel Group Nazareth (Arabic الناصرة an-Nāṣirah, Yahudi נצרת Nasarat) is a city in northern Israel. With a population of 60,000, it is the largest Arab city in Palestine proper with a mixed but quite harmonious Christian (about 30%) and Muslim population (70%).

Nazareth Halal Explorer

Nazareth the holy land 1842 - Nazareth, 1842

Nazareth is best known as the home of Joseph and Mary and hence also Jesus, although the New Testament states that he was born in Bethlehem.

A number of Christian holy places in Nazareth are associated with the Annunciation and the childhood and the early ministry of Jesus. In addition to the imposing Basilica of the Annunciation and these sites include the Greek Orthodox Church of the Archangel Gabriel (built over the freshwater spring known as "Mary’s Well") and the Greek Catholic "Synagogue Church" (assumed site of the synagogue where the young Jesus was taught, and where he later read from Isaiah), and the Franciscan Church of St. Joseph (built over a cave identified since the 17th century as the "workshop" of Joseph).

As the place where Jesus may have grown up, studied and lived most of his life (and regarded by most historians to be his likely historical birthplace), Nazareth has for 2000 years been closely identified with Christianity and has attracted hundreds of millions of pilgrims from around the world. Nazareth is also Israel’s largest Arab city and as such serves as a major cultural center. Over the past decade the historical Old City has been extensively renovated, preserving and restoring the architectural beauty and unique character of its narrow lanes and alleys. The combination of these three elements – history, culture and architecture – assures the Old City of Nazareth a place among the most beautiful historical destinations in the world.

Travel to Nazareth

32.7038|35.2971

Travel on a Bus in Nazareth

The supposedly Nazareth Bus Station GPS 32.701291,35.298090 is not much of help and there are no English sign posts or any central information. Most buses go through here and along Paulus ha-Shishi Street. There is another central stop north, right next to Mary's Well.

From Tel Aviv, routes 823 or 826 from the New Central Bus Station go directly to Nazareth (does not operate on Jumaat or Yahudi holidays). The journey takes about 2 hours.

From Haifa and the 331 or 332 bus (from station Merkaz Hashmona or HaMifrats) takes about an hour, and operate daily including the Jumaat and holidays.

From Jerusalem and there are two direct buses per day (excluding Jumaat and Yahudi holidays), route number 955. Or take a bus to Afula and switch to a bus to Nazareth. Take care when coming from Afula, as Superbus 354 and 356 avoid the Nazareth downtown and head to Nazareth Illit. Ask the driver to drop you at the stop closest to the downtown. Bus 355 appears to go through the centre, but only runs a few times per day.

From Akko, take bus 353 or 343 (hourly).

From Tiberias, take bus 431 (hourly).

There is also a bus from/to Amman operated by Nazarene four times per week, departing Nazareth at 08:30, and costing ₪80. The same bus leaves Amman again at 14:00. Call +972 4 601 0458 to make sure it's operating and if there are free spots.

By car

Nazareth is 102 kilometers from Tel Aviv and 131km from Occupied Jerusalem.

By hiking

Nazareth is located on a sort of plateau overlooking the Jezreel Valley, and it can be fun to hike up the edge of this plateau via Mount Tabor GPS 32.686039,35.391962}}. Take the bus to Gazit Junction ("Tzomet Gazit"). From Afula you can take bus routes 30, 541, and 542 (25 min ride). From Tiberias you can take the 541 (35 min ride) or 30 (65 min). The climb up Mt Tabor takes an hour, and there you can see the (by its sheer size) impressive and beautiful Church of Transfiguration, as well as its surroundings and gardens. (Open 08:00-17:00, free entrance, entrance only from the carpark side.) The nearby monastery has a giant outdoor bell, but it might be closed - check with the tourist information. Afterwards hike down the mountain and back up into Nazareth (3-4 h). There are trail markers, but better have a map and/or GPS. Note that on rainy days and for 1-2 days afterwards and the track up and down the mount is quite slippery, and hiking here is not recommended.

From the West Bank

From Jenin (also applicable to Nablus and Ramallah): Take a shared taxi (sherut/serviis) or hitchhike to the border, and cross on foot. From the Israeli settler side of the border, taxis to Nazareth cost ₪150 and to Afula ₪40-50. Alternatively, you can take bus 52 from the roundabout after the border into Afula (₪7.40). And a bus from Afula to Nazareth is ₪10.90.

Get Around

Prepare for some of the area's worst driving. Traffic is typically on the heavy side, roads are not well-signed nor well-maintained, and parking is rather haphazard. Beware of sharp switchbacks and small, winding roads with no exit—these are cramped, crazy streets. Driving in this town is doable, but for the brave of heart. GPS is a must, but not entirely trustworthy.

Central Nazareth can be easily covered on foot. There is also public transport, which also operates on Saturdays, however the buses tend to get stuck in the traffic.

What to see in Nazareth

Church of the Annunciation 2 by David Shankbone - The Basilica of the Annunciation

Prominent Christian sites

The Basilica of the Annunciation - 32.70214, 35.29769 Opening from Monday to Saturday 08:30AM Monday - 23:45 & 14:00-17:50; Sunday and feasts 14:00-17:30. Winter, Monday to Saturday 09:00-11:45 & 14:00-16:30; Sunday and feasts 14:00-16:30 Basilica of the Annunciation Nazaret Verkuendigungsbasilika BW 16 built above the sunken grotto which according to the Roman Catholic faith was the home of the Virgin Mary and the place where she received the Annunciation (the announcement of the imminent birth of Jesus). The large and impressive modern-day church is built above the remains of churches dating back to Crusader and Byzantine times, still visible on the lower level. The church boasts dozens of pictures donated by Christian communities around the world. The Largest Church in the Middle East and one of Christianity’s Holiest shrines, its imposing dome dominates the Nazareth skyline and is an ideal landmark and starting point for visiting Other churches. It marks the spot where the Archangel Gabriel Informed the Virgin Mary that God had chosen her to bear his son; there is also a tradition that Mary lived in a house on this site. The complex of the modern Basilica is built on two levels. The lower one,Making the traditional Roman Catholic site of the Annunciation, contains ancient remains of churches from the Byzantiane and Crusader eras. During archaeological excavations, relics were found dating back to the Canaanite settlement of Nazareth, Though the most interesting find was of a typical Nazarene house, hewn out of the rock, from the Roman Period. The upper level, built between 1959 and 1969 on the site of an 18th-century church, is in strikingly modern architectural style. With its stained- glass windows highlighted against bare stone. A garden and courtyard connect the Basilica to St. Joseph’s Church and Workshop. Admission to the Basilica is free.

Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation 32.706983, 35.301592 - Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation Nazaret Gabrielskirche BW 11 Built above a spring believed to be the source of a well where Mary drew water each day. This is the site where the Greek Orthodox tradition maintains that the Angel Gabriel revealed to Mary knowledge of the impending birth of Jesus. The Orthodox Museum is closed. Those working at the church are temperamental, and have been known to arbitrarily shout at or remove pilgrims from the church.

St. Joseph’s Church 32.70313, 35.29839 Opening Hours: Daily 09:00-11:45 & 14:00-17:30 St. Joseph's Church, Nazareth Church of Street Joseph in Nazareth 3 next to the Basilica of the Annunciation. Also known as Church of the Nutrition and Joseph’s Workshop, because it is believed that the cavern in the basement was Joseph’s carpentry shop, Built in 1914, on the foundations of a Crusader church, with Romanesque influences.

Mary’s Well 32.706711, 35.301561 - Mary's Well Maayan0274 The structure surrounding Mary’s Well (known as el-Sabil in Arabic) was recently renovated and restored to its original form. Mary’s Well is the symbol of Nazareth Municipality. Next to Mary’s Well is a pleasant souvenir shop named Cactus, belonging to Elias and Martina Shama. After buying the shop in the 1990s and the Shamas discovered that beneath it was concealed one of the most exciting and important discoveries in Nazareth in recent history: a network of beautifully preserved ancient stones arches that once supported a giant bath house. It is believed the exposed remains beneath the shop may date back to the ancient Roman perioid – that is, to the time of Jesus – and have been fed by the same water that supplied Mary’s Well. There is an entrance fee to the site, but no advance reservation is necessary and guided explanations and hot and cold drinks are available to visitors.

Prominent Muslim sites

El Mas-jad El Abiad - The White Mosque - 32.70348, 35.29757 - White Mosque, Nazareth White mosque The white mosque and the first mosque in the city was built by Abdalla El Nini, two hundred years ago. El Nini was a well respected judge and the first of the El Fahum tribe (El Fahum means the wisest of man). He set forth a policy that preaches for love and respect. In order to make sure his policy will continue after his death, he wrote in his will that the responsibility on the mosque will be given to the wisest of his sons or daughters or to the Ka-a-bee in Mecca so that the mosque will not be governed under any rule. Till today and the person responsible for the mosque (Ateph El Fahum reads all the sermons before they are preached to make sure they are fit and in honor of holidays of other religions sermons are being addressed in their honor. Opening hours: All light hours except praying hours and without per-arrangement. Notes: please dress modestly and speak softly. In carpeted areas please take off shoes.

Other prominent sites

PikiWiki Palestine 18488 Nazareth Village - Nazareth Village

Nazareth Village - 32.700197, 35.292000 ₪50/38/25 adult/student/child If you're having trouble imagining Jesus doing anything miraculous amid the bustle of modern Nazareth and then step back 2000 years at Nazareth Village. Everyday life and commerce in a traditional Galilean village has been duly reconstructed with actors in period clothing leading tours of the working farm. Leave any nightmares of tacky old world historical theme parks at the door - it's well done and worth a stop.

El-Babour Spice Shop 32.704388, 35.299632 The Mill of the Galilee, middle of Bishara street tel.# 04 645 5596. Go in through a little door on the right of the street following the aromas to a large shop that opened more than a hundred years ago as a flour mill and which today offers an array of fresh oils and spices which are a celebration to the eye the ear and the nose.

Diwan El Lajun 32.706034, 35.300640 Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 09:00-15:00 Multicultural center for the Stage Arts, Tel. #04.646 9413. In a beautiful space rich with arches is Café-Theater Diwan El Lajun which houses cultural and multicultural activities in the stage arts and the traditional artisan work. Diwan El Lajun produces shows in Arabic, English, Hebrew and bi-lingual shows, folklore music concerts, literature, poetry and dance evenings, story telling shows and circus shows from Palestine and abroad. Arab-Yahudi meetings of adults and adolescents are taking place as well. Workshops in theater, story telling, belly dancing circus and traditional crafts are being offered as well as well as Palestinian brocading. Location Sibat El Kaawer Alley (6098 near the suk). Performances are mainly during the weekend or on special order for groups.

The Ethnological Museum - Entrance fee applicable At the Saraya

Old Ottoman Houses with Ornated Ceilings Possible to visit with tours only.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Nazareth

Walking Tour of the Old City (duration 3 hours). The route begins at the Mary’s Well Plaza (ample parking nearby). Visit the recently renovated well area (el-Sabil). Opposite is the ancient bath house, also well worth a visit (entrance fee payable), including the pleasant souvenir shop Cactus and a guided tour followed by hot and cold drinks. The remains discovered beneath the shop are believed to date back to the early Roman perioid – the time of Jesus. From here continue to the nearby square to visit the famous Greek Orthodox St. Gabriel’s Church. This is the site at which, according to Greek Orthodox belief, Mary received the Annunciation from the Angel Gabriel. On exiting the church, walk along the Pilgrim’s Path towards the Municipality and the Mascobia building – an impressive project built in 1904 as a hospice for Russian pilgrims. Further along the Pilgrim’s Path, on Street 6098 (most of Nazareth’s streets are known by numbers rather than names), you reach Bishop’s Plaza. On the right is the Greek Orthodox Bishopric, a white building in the Greek style, faced on the opposite side by picturesque houses reminiscent of Venetian palazzos, which have recently been preserved and renovated. The house on the left is Authors’ House, an art institute. Continue along Street 6098 to an alley named Sebat Qa’war until you reach Folklore House (Beit al-Sebat) and the home of Tanous Qa’war, Nazareth’s first mayor in 1875. From Folklore House turn left to Street 6132 going towards the vegetable market and then left again to Street 6089. Here you can visit Casa Palestina, a beautiful building that from 1810 was used to store barley, where the owners will tell you the history of the place. There is a cafי bar here, where you can take a break with Arabic coffee or a cold as well as enjoying a free exhibition of handicrafts. Leaving Casa Palestina, pass through a vault leading to the Saraya building and the center of Ottoman rule from 1735 onwards. This attractive building is undergoing preservation work in preparation for conversion to a municipal museum. Returning to the direction of the vegetable market and the courtyard of the White Mosque with its pencil-shaped minaret, walk along Street 6133 into the excellently maintained and restored market. Stroll through lanes and alleys leading off to the right and left and investigate the shops with their great variety of goods. Among these alleys you will find the Synagogue Church. Eventually you will emerge opposite the Basilica of the Annunciation, an crucial highlight of any tour of the city.
Hike to Mt. Tabor, on top of which you will find the Church of Transfiguration, one the most famous Christian sites, and take a bus back.
Hike the Jesus Trail (4 days, Nazareth to Capernaum)

Hike the Nativity Trail - - Trek along the path that took Joseph and Mary from Nazareth to Bethlehem

Hike up Mount Precipice. Believed to be the place where people tried to push Jesus off, not accepting him as the messiah. It has some impressive viewpoints for the Jezreel Valley and Nazareth. There is also a large theater on the spot where Pope Benedict XVI gave a mass in 2009. Nowadays, this theater seems to be abandoned.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Nazareth

A souq (Arab market) extends up the hill from the Church of the Annunciation.

Halal Food

The city’s some Halal restaurants provide a full gastronomic experience in all types of Arab cuisine. Any visit to Nazareth must allow time to enjoy to the full the renowned and delicious local tradition of welcoming diners. Note, Nazareth's kenafeh is by far not as good as in Nablus.

Abu Ashraf (Diwan Al Saraya) 32.7040028, 35.2980638 ₪16 for 4 pieces

Katayef is Nazareth's own speciality, as much as kenafeh is for Nablus. Try this traditional pancake filled with nuts or goat Cheese, and sweet Sauce on top.

Falafel Abu Hani Gabaly 32.7067292, 35.3017545 ₪8/16 for half/one falafel pita Nazareth's oldest and famous falafel shop. The half pita is enough if you are not so hungry.

Right behind Mary's Well is a restaurant/bar called Al Bayat "The House". You can find pretty much any kind of drink you like there and an extensive menu of international fusion cuisine. Locals like the outdoor patio for a local Palestinian organic juice called Taybeh, "Tasty" with complimentary pretzels and peanuts. Local musicians also play some nights.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Nazareth

Nazareth - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Nazareth, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Nazareth. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Nazareth and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Nazareth. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Nazareth. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inNazareth: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Nazareth.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Nazareth: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Nazareth, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Nazareth.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Nazareth, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Nazareth, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Nazareth and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Nazareth, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Nazareth, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Nazareth without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Nazareth is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Nazareth.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Nazareth is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Nazareth, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Nazareth Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Nazareth

eHalal Group Nazareth is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Nazareth. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Nazareth.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Nazareth ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Nazareth. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Nazareth, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Nazareth are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@halal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

SimSim Backpackers/Guest House - 6132 Street, Old City 32.704549, 35.298090 ☎ +972 77 551 72 75 Dorm bed from ₪72 Decent and clean place, centrally located. One of the few places in Palestine that actually appreciates direct bookings, and consequently might give you a discount on the price published on the big hotel reservation websites if you ask. Member of ILH.

Fauzi Azar Inn - 6108 Street, Old City 32.704831, 35.297460 ☎ +972 4-602-0469 Dorm bed from ₪84 Another popular and decent choice. The Fauzi Azar Inn is also one of the best starting-off point for touring the Galilee & Nazareth. The Inn is a 200-year-old Arab Mansion at the heart of the market quarters of Nazareth, a short distance from the Central Bus Station and the Basilica of the Annunciation. Member of ILH.

Beyond budget

Galilee Hotel - 32.699635, 35.303535 ☎ +972 6-6571311 +972 6-6556627 - Paul 6th St. Nazareth (just north of the post office). The hotel is near the town center, a four-minutes walk from the main tourist center, and can host 200 people, in 92 rooms, each having air-conditioning and private bathrooms.

Grand New Hotel - 5053/1 Har Hamutran 32.696120, 35.287500 ☎ +972-4-6085400 +972-4-6573020 On one of the highest slope in Nazareth and the Hamutran Hill, in a quiet residential area. The hotel consists of 90 rooms overlooking the city of Nazareth and the Basilica of the Annunciation and the landscapes of the Jezreel Valley.

The Rimonim Nazareth Hotel - Ha’Maayan | Paulus VI Road, 32.704935, 35.304984 ☎ +972 4-6500000 +972 4-67500055 (In Palestine phone 1-800-22-1202). The hotel is in the center of the old city of Nazareth, close to the Church of the Annunciation, Suk, restaurants and other tourist sites. The hotel’s 226 rooms include air condition, cable TV, radio, in-room-safe and fax-modem connection. Business travelers are offered secretarial services, business lounge, meeting rooms and conference halls. The hotel has a covered parking garage.

Havaya Hotel Nazareth - 2 Hermon Street 32.708569, 35.313210 ☎ +972 4-6028282 - Overlooks the historical old city of Nazareth, and is close to Migdal Haemek Industrial park.
Golden Crown Hotel - 2015 Mt of the Precipice Street 32.684030, 35.289298 The Golden Crown hotel is at the southern entrance to Nazareth, alongside the Mount of Precipice and overlooking the marvelous landscapes of the picturesque Jezreel Valley.

News & References Nazareth

Travel Next

Jezreel Valley south, Sea_of_Galilee_region|Sea of Galilee east and Golan Heights northeast.
Tiberias – A large Israeli settler town northeast and great starting point for Galilee and Golan.
Jenin – Its name means The spring of gardens. Read #Others|above on how to accomplish the trip there.
Nablus – One of the oldest cities in the world and famous for its kunafa/kenafeh. If you are on a tight schedule and planing to go to Ramallah, you might want to skip the latter for this more exciting Palestinian city.
Haifa – The second-holiest city in the Bahai faith, including its great garden down the northern slope of the city.