I’ve always known Israel has a rich history, but the Beit Govrin Caves totally blew me away!
This spot is definitely on my list of top things to do in Israel. Beit Govrin is a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the ancient ruins of the biblical town of Maresha (important during the First Temple period), Roman-era caves, St. Anne’s Church, and some stunning viewpoints over lush mountains and valleys.
Getting to Beit Govrin Caves – Easy Day Trip from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem
Located about an hour’s drive south of both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv (roughly 50 km), Beit Govrin is super easy to reach. The park is spread out, so you’ll likely drive from one parking spot to another and then walk to the various caves and ruins. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike and pedal your way through the park!
We opted for the car, and it took us around 2-3 hours to cover most of the main sites. If you’re visiting during summer, remember to bring water—Israel’s sun doesn’t mess around!
Entrance Fees & Visitor Information for Beit Govrin National Park
Tickets cost between 20-30 NIS (about 7-10 USD). You’ll get a detailed map that highlights all the key spots and how to get to each one. Be sure to check the prices and hours before heading out (check prices here).
Opening Hours: The park is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00/5:00 PM, but check their current hours here before you go.
Top Caves to Visit at Beit Govrin National Park
- The Bell Caves at Beit Govrin
These are hands down the coolest. The name comes from their bell-shaped interiors, formed by people digging a small hole on the surface, which expanded as they went deeper. There are around 800 caves in the area, many of which are connected by underground tunnels. It’s like a giant subterranean playground! - The Columbarium Cave – Beit Govrin’s Pigeon Caves
This one’s super unique. It was used to raise pigeons, not just for their meat but for commercial purposes too. The cave has hundreds of small niches where the pigeons used to live. Fun fact: you might even spot a few pigeons still hanging out there! - The Sidonian Burial Caves – Ancient Tombs of Beit Govrin
This spot belonged to a wealthy family, and the walls are covered in ancient paintings of animals, including some mythical creatures (think three-headed dogs!). Next to it is the Tomb of Musicians, which unfortunately was closed during our visit.
Discover the Relics of St. Anne’s Church & Tel Maresha Viewpoint
If you walk about 500 meters from one of the parking spots, you’ll stumble upon the remains of St. Anne’s Church, dating back to the Byzantine period. It’s another must-see, especially for history buffs.
For a stunning panoramic view, head to Tel Maresha Viewpoint, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes. Perfect spot for a photo op!
Visit the Roman Amphitheater at Beit Govrin National Park
Okay, I have to admit—the Roman amphitheater just didn’t wow us. Located outside the park (across the road), it dates back to the 2nd century and was discovered in the 1990s. It’s cool, but if you’ve seen amphitheaters in Italy, it might not be a game-changer. That said, if you’re already there, you might as well check it out—just remember to hold onto your park receipt for entry.
Pro Tips: Between the sites, you’ll find shaded areas with picnic tables and benches. I recommend bringing a snack and having a mini-picnic surrounded by history. If you forget food, don’t worry—on your way back (especially on Saturdays), you’ll spot a Druze pita stand along the road. Their fresh, warm pita with spreads is seriously the perfect post-visit treat.
Best Route for Exploring Beit Govrin: Start at the Bell Caves, then move on to the Sidonian Burial Caves, and finish with the Columbarium Cave and the Tel Maresha Viewpoint (both near the same parking area).
