Beersheba walking tour & city guide
The capital of the Negev desert.
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Beersheba, the largest city of the Negev desert, is linked to the story of Abraham. Today it is a growing university city and the gateway to the desert.
The city
The Old City, built by the Ottomans, has a grid of streets with stone buildings. The Negev Museum of Art is in the former Ottoman governor's house.
History
Tel Be'er Sheva, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site, has the remains of a biblical city with an impressive water system.
Why it is worth a visit
Beersheba is mentioned in the Bible as the place where Abraham dug a well, and the city's name means 'well of the oath'. Today it is a fast-growing university and technology city, home to Ben-Gurion University. The Old City's Ottoman grid has been revived with cafés and galleries, and the Bedouin market on Thursdays sells crafts and local goods. Beersheba is also the gateway to the Negev desert, with Mitzpe Ramon's huge crater, Ein Avdat canyon and the Nabataean ruins of Avdat on the Incense Route.
Top sights in Beersheba
- 1
Old City
Ottoman-era streets.
- 2
Tel Be'er Sheva
A UNESCO archaeological site.
- 3
Abraham's Well
A visitor center.
- 4
Negev Museum of Art
In an Ottoman building.
- 5
Park HaNahal
A river park.
Food markets & where to eat in Beersheba
Old City
Restaurants and bars.
Bedouin market area
Local produce.
Central market
Spices and street food.
Food to try in Beersheba
Bedouin coffee
With cardamom.
Mansaf
A Bedouin lamb dish.
Pita from the taboun
Baked in a clay oven.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Beersheba
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in BeershebaCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Beersheba.
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