Private Day Tour: Bethlehem, Qumran and Dead Sea

Bethlehem , State of Palestine

Private Day Tour: Bethlehem, Qumran and Dead Sea

Active

(1 reviews)

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the beauty of the Old City of Bethlehem on this day trip, walk along the narrow star street where Joseph and Mary walked when they came to Bethlehem. Learn about the Essenes who lived at the shore of the Dead Sea and wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls. Learn about the history of the sites and the daily life from your local tour guide! Visit Shepherd’s field, caves were used by the Shepherds 2000 years ago. Visit the Nativity Church, the birthplace of Jesus and the oldest church in the world still in daily use. By the end of the tour, enjoy a float in the Dead Sea, the lowest and saltiest sea on earth.

Available options

Private Day Tour: Bethlehem, Qumran and Dead Sea

What's included

Private Tour Guide

Pickup and drop off from Bethlehem 300 Checkpoint

Air-conditioned vehicle

Fuel surcharge

Detailed itinerary

See some of Banksy Graffiti arts in Bethlehem, Visit The Walled Off Hotel of Banksy and the separation wall on the way.

Walk in the old city of Bethlehem and enjoy the old architects of the buildings from the Ottoman period. Walk the Star Street— the way that Joseph and Mary took when they came to Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus. Visit Hosh Al Syrian quarter, see the architect of the buildings from inside and stop for a morning cup of tea or Arabic coffee.

Stop 3

Continue to Manger Square and visit the Nativity Church, the birthplace of Jesus and the oldest church in the world.

Drive to Shepherd’s Field where the angel Gabriel appeared to the shepherds, see the ruins that go back to the Byzantine time and the current church.

Stop 5

Leave Bethlehem and drive to Qumran National Park, World-famous for having hidden the Dead Sea Scrolls for almost 2000 years, Qumran was the site of a small Essene settlement around the time of Jesus – specifically, from the late 1st century BCE until 68 CE, when it was destroyed by the Romans.

Stop 6

nd our day by a stop at the Dead Sea to float and enjoy the minerals of the lowest and saltiest sea on earth.
Drive back to Bethlehem 300 Checkpoint to return to your hotel.

What's not included

Lunch

Gratuities

Public transportation to the meeting point

Entrance fees to all sites

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Take bus 234 from Damascus Gate in Jerusalem to the last stop Bethlehem 300 Checkpoint, once you get off the bus, follow everything to cross to Bethlehem side where your guide will be waiting to meet you once you cross.

About Bethlehem

Bethlehem, located in the West Bank, is a historic city renowned as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. It is a city rich in religious and cultural significance, offering visitors a unique blend of ancient history, vibrant markets, and spiritual sites.

Top Attractions

Church of the Nativity

This ancient basilica is built over the site traditionally considered to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major pilgrimage destination.

Religious 1-2 hours Free entry

Manger Square

The central square of Bethlehem, surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and cafes. It is a vibrant hub of activity and a great place to experience local culture.

Historical 30 minutes to a few hours Free

Herodion

A ancient fortress built by King Herod the Great. The site offers stunning views and a glimpse into the region's rich history.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mansaf

A traditional Palestinian dish made with lamb cooked in a fermented dried yoghurt sauce, served with rice and pine nuts.

Main dish Contains meat and dairy

Maqluba

A savory dish made with rice, vegetables, and meat, cooked and then flipped upside down before serving.

Main dish Can be made vegetarian

Knafeh

A sweet cheese pastry soaked in sugar syrup, topped with pistachios.

Dessert Contains dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking at Herodion Exploring historical sites Visiting local cafes Enjoying the vibrant markets Attending local festivals Visiting religious sites Visiting during Christmas season for festive atmosphere Experiencing traditional Palestinian hospitality

Best Time to Visit

March to May, October to November

These periods offer pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is also less crowded compared to the peak tourist seasons.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English, Hebrew
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

New Israeli Shekel (ILS)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Bethlehem is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of the political situation and security measures.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid political demonstrations
• Be cautious with valuables
• Stay informed about the current situation

Getting there

By air

Ben Gurion Airport • 60 km

By bus

Jerusalem Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are a common and affordable way to get around Bethlehem. They are frequent and cover most parts of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: No widely used apps, but taxis can be hailed on the street

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Old City New City

Day trips

Jericho

30 km • Half day to full day

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Jericho offers a wealth of historical sites and archaeological wonders.

Jerusalem

10 km • Full day

A city of immense historical and religious significance, Jerusalem offers a wealth of cultural and historical sites.

Festivals

Christmas Celebrations • December 24-25 Bethlehem Festival of Lights • December

Pro tips

Visit the Church of the Nativity early in the morning to avoid crowds
Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience
Explore the Old City on foot to discover hidden gems and local culture
Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
Carry cash for small vendors and markets as card acceptance can be limited