Bet She’an
,Bet She'an, located in northern Israel, is an ancient city known for its rich history and archaeological ruins. The city features well-preserved Roman and Byzantine remains, including a theater, colonnaded street, and bathhouses. Bet She'an also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Jordan Valley.
Today, the city functions as a modern urban center with a mix of residential areas and historical sites attracting tourists and historians alike.
- "Shalom" - Hello
- "Toda" - Thank you
- "Boker tov" - Good morning
- "Laila tov" - Good night
- "Ma nishma?" - What's up?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Ancient Bet Shean
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the stunning Roman ruins at Bet She’an National Park. Walk among the ancient columns and mosaics that tell the story of this once-thriving city.
afternoon
:Head to the nearby Bet She’an Museum to learn more about the archeological finds from the area. Enjoy lunch at a local café, sampling traditional Israeli dishes.
evening
:As the sun sets, stroll through the charming old town. Relax and reflect on the day over dinner at a cozy restaurant.
Scenic Nature Walks
morning
:Start your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby Gilboa Mountains. The trails offer breathtaking panoramic views and the chance to see local wildlife.
afternoon
:After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in nature, surrounded by the beauty of Israeli landscapes. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Gan Hashlosha National Park for some relaxation in its natural pools.
evening
:Return to Bet She’an for dinner, perhaps trying some local seafood dishes. End your evening by soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of the city.
Highlights
Good
- Rich historical significance with archaeological sites, including Roman ruins.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the nearby Beit She'an Valley and Gilboa mountains.
- Cultural diversity and a mix of communities.
- Mild climate, making it a pleasant place to visit or live year-round.
- Access to the Jordan River and areas for outdoor activities.
Bad
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger Israeli cities.
- Infrastructure might not be as developed as in metropolitan areas.
- Can get quite hot during the summer months.
- Some areas may face challenges related to socioeconomic disparities.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Gilboa Mountains
Explore the beautiful trails of the Gilboa Mountains, offering stunning views of the Jezreel Valley and the surrounding landscapes.
Visit the Bet She'an National Park
Discover the rich history and archaeology of Bet She’an, including ancient Roman ruins and a well-preserved amphitheater.
Cycling along the Jordan River
Enjoy cycling along the scenic paths of the Jordan River, taking in the natural beauty and wildlife of the area.
Bird Watching at the Hula Valley
Visit the nearby Hula Valley for an incredible bird-watching experience, especially during migration seasons.
Picnicking in the National Park
Set up a picnic in one of the designated areas within Bet She'an National Park to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature and history.
Exploring the Gan Hashlosha National Park
Relax in the natural hot springs and lush surroundings of Gan Hashlosha National Park, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Outdoor Yoga Classes
Join outdoor yoga classes offered in various parks within Bet She'an to rejuvenate your mind and body in a serene environment.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Bet She’an with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Tel Bet She'an
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Jordan Valley and the Jezreel Valley.
Beit Alfa Synagogue
Features intricate mosaic floors and provides a great vantage point for capturing historical and architectural beauty.
Bet She'an National Park
Showcases Roman ruins and allows for stunning photo opportunities with its well-preserved columns and structures.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mansaf
A traditional Jordanian dish popular in Bet She'an, Mansaf consists of tender lamb cooked in fermented dried yogurt, served with rice and garnished with nuts. For an authentic experience, try Mansaf at Abu Salem Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Makluba
Makluba is a savory rice dish featuring layers of spiced rice, tender chicken or lamb, and assorted vegetables. It's a popular choice at many local eateries, including Shukri's Restaurant.
Kunafeh
Indulge in Kunafeh, a beloved Middle Eastern dessert made of shredded filo pastry, sweetened cheese, and a sugar syrup drizzle. For an exquisite taste, head to Al-Jinan Sweets for their delightful Kunafeh.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bet She’an better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bet She'an Market
Explore the vibrant stalls of Bet She'an Market, where you can savor a variety of street food offerings, including falafel, shawarma, and freshly baked pita bread. Don't miss the aromatic spices and flavorful olives at the market's numerous vendors.
Al-Hara Street Food
Al-Hara Street Food is a must-visit for a bustling array of street food vendors offering authentic Middle Eastern delights such as savory pastries, grilled meats, and delectable desserts.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress Modestly
When visiting Bet She’an, especially in religious or traditional areas, it's important to dress modestly. This means covering shoulders and knees, which demonstrates respect for local customs and values.
Respect Prayer Times
Be mindful of prayer times, especially if you are near religious sites or during the Friday afternoon prayers in Muslim areas. It is respectful to avoid loud conversations and other disruptive behavior during these times.
Engage with Locals Politely
When interacting with locals, greet them warmly and use basic Hebrew phrases such as 'Shalom' (hello) and 'Toda' (thank you). This shows appreciation for their culture and can help foster positive relationships.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bet She’an with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Bet She'an, as in other parts of Israel, tipping is generally appreciated and considered customary, especially in service industries such as restaurants and cafes. The common practice is to tip around 10-15% of the total bill, though rounding up to the nearest whole number is also common for convenience. Tipping is also common for taxi drivers and hotel staff.
Payment
Payment methods in Bet She'an are similar to those throughout Israel. Cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used. Many establishments accept contactless payment methods, such as mobile payments. At restaurants, it is typical to settle the bill at the table, and some places allow for splitting the bill among guests.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bet She’an.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March-May)
Best time to visit Bet She’an with comfortable temperatures and blooming wildflowers. The ancient ruins can be explored in pleasant weather.
Fall (September-November)
Another ideal time to visit with mild temperatures and the harvest season. It's a great time to explore the archaeological sites and enjoy outdoor activities.
Summer (June-August)
Hot and dry weather, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). Visitors should be prepared for intense heat if visiting during this season.
Winter (December-February)
Cool and rainy weather, with occasional frosty nights. It's the quietest time for tourism, but visitors can experience a different side of Bet She’an with lush green landscapes.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mount Gilboa
A beautiful mountain range east of Bet She’an, Mount Gilboa offers various hiking trails with stunning views of the Jezreel Valley and surrounding areas, including the Sea of Galilee.
Gan HaShlosha National Park
Known for its natural springs and scenic beauty, Gan HaShlosha provides hiking trails that lead through lush landscapes, with the option to enjoy the pools and picnic areas along the way.
Beit She'an National Park
This archaeological site features ancient ruins and fascinating historical points of interest, with paths allowing visitors to explore the area on foot while enjoying views of the surrounding hills.
Nahal Harod
A picturesque river canyon located nearby, offering various trails for hiking. The area is known for its rich flora and fauna, along with beautiful waterfalls.
Hamat Gader
Set near hot springs, Hamat Gader is inviting for hiking and nature walks, with options to explore the natural surroundings along with wellness opportunities at the thermal baths.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bet She’an through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Bet She’an by plane.
Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)
The primary international airport serving Tel Aviv, Israel, approximately 87 kilometers from Bet She'an.
Haifa Airport (HFA)
An airport located in Haifa, about 68 kilometers from Bet She'an, serving domestic and limited international flights.
Ramon Airport (ETM)
A newer airport located near Eilat, approximately 310 kilometers from Bet She'an, serving international flights primarily to tourist destinations.
Sde Dov Airport (SDV)
A domestic airport located in Tel Aviv, about 90 kilometers from Bet She'an, primarily serving domestic flights but also has limited international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Jewish Community
The majority of the population, consisting predominantly of secular and traditional Jews.
Arab Community
Includes both Muslim and Christian Arabs, representing a significant minority in the city.
Ethiopian Community
A growing demographic group, consisting of immigrants from Ethiopia.
Russian-speaking Community
Includes immigrants from the former Soviet Union and surrounding countries.
Druze Community
A small but notable community with unique cultural and religious practices.
The Soul of Bet She’an
Discover the essence of Bet She’an through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer
Soccer is highly popular in Bet She'an, with local teams and community involvement in various leagues. The sport is played by both adults and youth.
Basketball
Basketball has a significant following in Bet She'an, with local clubs and schools promoting the sport among youth and adults alike.
Volleyball
Volleyball is a popular sport among women and youth in Bet She'an, with various local tournaments and community events.
Swimming
Swimming is a favored recreational activity in Bet She'an, with access to public pools and natural water bodies, appealing to families and individuals.
Athletics
Athletics, including running and track events, is actively promoted in schools and local sports clubs, encouraging fitness and competition.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many local establishments in Bet She'an happily accommodate vegetarian and vegan preferences, with an array of flavorful plant-based dishes featuring fresh produce, pulses, and aromatic spices.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find a range of gluten-free options at eateries in Bet She'an, ensuring a hassle-free dining experience with dishes crafted to meet dietary requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bet She’an with these cultural adventures.
