Things to do in Nazareth

Welcome to Nazareth

According to the Christian faith, Nazareth was home to Mary and Joseph before the birth of Christ. Located in northern Israel, this once-sleepy village is now a bustling metropolis full of Ottoman-era mansions and Roman ruins. Lofty churches, mosques, and temples pepper the city, along with both Christian and Muslim holy sites.

The Basics

Nazareth is an important Holy Land site on par with Bethlehem, Haifa, and Jerusalem. Here you can find some of the most beautiful churches in the Middle East, such as the Basilica of the Annunciation, the Church of St. Gabriel, and St. Joseph’s Church. The White Mosque is also a must-see, along with the Peace Mosque and Ela-Nabi Sa'in Mosque. For a taste of Nazareth’s diverse culture, visit the Diwan El Lajun, a multicultural performing arts center.

Nazareth is a popular day trip destination from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Most tours last at least a day, and some multi-day excursions visit Nazareth along with other important Holy Land sites such as Jericho, Bethlehem, the Dead Sea, and the Sea of Galilee. Private tours are also available for a personalized experience.

Things to Know Before You Go

Nazareth is a must-see for history buffs and culture lovers.
Remember to dress modestly if you plan to visit churches or mosques—you should cover up from your shoulders to below your knees.
Because this is a predominantly Arab city, most stores and restaurants are open during Shabbat on Fridays and Saturdays.

How to Get There

Nazareth is located in northern Israel, near the borders of Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. By road, the city is roughly two hours from Jerusalem and 90 minutes from Tel Aviv. It’s possible to travel by bus from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, although be aware that public transportation does not run during Shabbat or on Jewish holidays.

When to Get There

You can visit Nazareth year-round, although Israel’s weather is most pleasant during spring and autumn. Most restaurants and stores close on Sundays.

Holy Sites in Nazareth

The Basilica of the Annunciation is a modern church built upon Crusade-era ruins, the remains of which are still visible on the lower level. The site’s mix of architectural styles and stunning works of art make it one of the most unique churches in Israel. Mary’s Well is another important spot, known for its beautifully restored Roman arches.

Why you are seeing these recommendations

Top 3 attractions in Nazareth

Church of the Annunciation (Basilica of the Annunciation)

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Church of the Annunciation (Basilica of the Annunciation)

In Christian doctrine, the angel Gabriel came to Mary in Nazareth and told her she was going to give birth to Jesus. Built over the Grotto of the Annunciation, where some believe Gabriel appeared, the Roman Catholic Basilica of the Annunciation celebrates this miracle. Don’t confuse it with the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation.

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Church of St. Joseph

This quaint Church of St. Joseph in Nazareth was built in 1914—but don’t let this relatively recent date fool you. It’s constructed atop the remains of a crusader-era chapel and the underground crypt contains an ancient basin, mosaics, and cisterns from Roman times. Christians have long believed that this church also sits on the site of the carpentry workshop of Jesus’s father, Joseph.

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Church of the Multiplication (Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes)

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Church of the Multiplication (Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes)

During the twentieth century ancient church ruins in Tabgha were excavated, uncovering a stunning mosaic basilica floor from a Byzantine era church, hidden for some 1,300 years. In 1936 a replica of the Byzantine basilica was built on the same site, believed to be the ‘solitary place’ where Jesus miraculously multiplied five loaves and bread and two fish to feed 5,000 listeners. These loaves and fish, which give the Church of the Multiplication its full name (the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes), are depicted in the mosaic just in front of the altar. Other parts of the tile mosaic show a variety of birds and plants from the Galilee region. A 2015 arson attack badly damaged parts of the church, but luckily the fifth century mosaics remained unharmed.

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