Private Day Tour: Bethlehem, Jordan River and Dead Sea

Bethlehem , State of Palestine

Private Day Tour: Bethlehem, Jordan River and Dead Sea

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(18 reviews)

Duration varies

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

Enjoy a comprehensive overview of historic Bethlehem on this 8-hour private tour. You'll visit the Church of the Nativity, the Church of St. Catherine, the Milk Grotto Shrine, the Cave of St. Jerome, and Shepherd's Field, where the angel appeared to the shepherds. Drive toward Jordan River t visit the Baptismal Site "Kasr el Yahud" where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptiste then enjoy a float in the Dead Sea and get your body covered with the Dead Sea mud.

Available options

Private Day Tour: Bethlehem, Jordan River and Dead Sea

What's included

Private tour

Drop-off at Checkpoint 300 or Bethlehem hotel

Driver/guide

Pickup from Checkpoint 300 or Bethlehem hotel

What you'll see

Greet your private guide-driver at 8am at your Bethlehem hotel or the Bethlehem side of Checkpoint 300 if coming from Jerusalem: Checkpoint 300 is about 30 minutes from Damascus Gate by bus.

Start at the famous Church of the Nativity, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's built on the spot where many believe Jesus was born: it's the world's oldest church in regular daily use. You'll also visit the Cave of St. Jerome, below the church, where many believe he translated the bible. You'll visit the Church of St. Catherine and the Milk Grotto shrine, then to Beit Sahour, considered the city of the shepherds. Visit the Shepherd's Field, where the angel appeared to the shepherds and told them about Jesus' birth.

Relax in air-conditioned comfort as you drive towards Jordan River. Along the way, you'll pass by various religious sites: St. Theodosius' Monastery, where some believe the wise men hid from Herod the Great after they visited the baby Jesus in Bethlehem, and al-Eizariya, which many believe to be Lazarus' Bethany village.

Visit Qasr el Yahud, the baptismal site in Jordan River and a chance to renew your baptism if you wish. After that continue to Dead Sea where you will get the chance to float in the lowest and saltiest sea in the world. Dead Sea is full of minerals and its mud is very good for the skin.

Drive back either to Checkpoint 300 or your Bethlehem hotel, where your tour will finish at 4pm.

What's not included

Gratuities

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Lunch

Entrance fees

Public transportation to the meeting point and back to your hotel

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

18 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants

Walking is involved

Meeting point

Once you get off the bus or the taxi, walk through the checkpoint building (Follow the sign) to cross to Bethlehem's side where I'll meet you. Everyone there is either crossing to Bethlehem or coming from Bethlehem so it's easy to find your way. You can always ask anyone for help if you need it.

Important notes

• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

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