Nazareth, the largest city in northern Israel and Israel’s largest Arab city, is steeped in rich biblical history. Famous for being the home town of Jesus, this vibrant hillside city is a must-visit destination for pilgrims and travellers alike.
How to get to Nazareth
Nazareth is 90 miles north of Jerusalem up Route 6/65. We opted to drive up the Mediterranean coast as far as Haifa, then continue inland to Nazareth, continuing to the Sea of Galilee the following day. There are direct buses to Nazareth from Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and Haifa.
Getting around Nazareth
The main attractions in Nazareth are fairly close together, so we did all our sightseeing on foot.
Where to stay in Nazareth
We stayed at Villa Nazareth B&B; an immaculate guest house in a converted Greek school. It’s conveniently located and offers a great breakfast too.
Nazareth in 1 Day Itinerery
| Day 1 | Accommodation – Villa Nazareth B&B Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation Mary’s Well Basilica of the Annunciation St Joseph’s Church The White Mosque Mezze for Dinner |
Accommodation – Villa Nazareth
We arrive at today’s destination, Nazareth – Jesus’ manor. Tonight’s accommodation, Villa Nazareth B&B, is adjoining the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, so very convenient too. Once checked in, we set off on foot to explore the sights of Nazareth.
Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation
The Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation is built over a spring where the Greeks believe Mary was visited by the Angel Gabriel. In fact, there are a number of springs in Nazareth, each has a church on top, just in case this is where Gabriel put in an appearance.
The interior of this 17th Century church is ornately decorated with frescoes depicting scenes from Jesus’ life.
Mary’s Well
Outside is a well which is also believed to be the spot where Mary was visited by the Angel Gabriel to tell her of the impending birth of Jesus. Hence the name, Mary’s Well.
Basilica of the Annunciation
We work our way down the hill, until we reach the star attraction; the Basilica of the Annunciation, which is built on the spot where it is believed Jesus’ mother, Mary used to live. The church is modern, built in the 1960s, but it is one of the most stunning buildings I have ever seen.
The stained glass windows are striking and the church is adorned, inside and out, with mosaics depicting the Virgin Mary created by Christian communities from countries around the world. The USA’s contribution particularly draws the eye.
St Joseph’s Church
Across the courtyard from the Basilica is St Joseph’s Church, which stands where it is believed Jesus’ father, Joseph’s carpentry workshop once stood.
The church is built on top of an ancient Crusader church and you can descend into the crypt to see remnants of past buildings….
The White Mosque
Back up the hill via the White Mosque, which dates from the 1700s.
Mezze for Dinner
We round the evening off with dinner. We are hungry, which results in the old man over ordering – it’s a mega mezze. There are several restaurants around St Mary’s Well from which to choose.
- Trip Taken: October 2017
- Updated: June 2025
I hope you found the above information useful. For guides to more destinations in the 50+ countries we have visited, check out my full list of Independent Travel Itineraries here.
Jane's Midlife Journey 
Leave a comment