Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem, as described in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Luke. According to the account, they undertook this journey because of a decree from Caesar Augustus that required everyone to return to their ancestral towns for a census. Joseph, being of the lineage of David, had to go to Bethlehem, the city of David, with Mary, who was pregnant at the time.
Though the Bible does not provide explicit details about the mode of transportation they used, it is commonly believed that they traveled primarily on foot. Considering Mary was heavily pregnant, it is likely that she may have ridden on a donkey or another pack animal for at least part of the journey to make the long trip more manageable. The journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem is approximately 70 to 90 miles, depending on the route taken, which would have taken several days.
The landscape they would have traversed included hilly terrain, which presented further challenges. This journey underscores the hardships faced by Mary and Joseph, particularly during a time of great stress due to Mary's condition and the governmental mandate forcing their travel.
The setting of their travel has added to the narrative surrounding the birth of Jesus, representing not just a physical journey but also a significant spiritual and prophetic significance in Christian theology. The hardships they endured have been a point of reflection in Christian teachings, symbolizing obedience, faith, and perseverance.