Bethlehem, Jordan River & Dead Sea Private Day Tour Experience

Summary

Full-Day Guided Tour: Church of the Nativity, Baptism Site & Dead Sea Float

If you want to see Bethlehem’s most important sites, dip your toes in history at the Jordan River, and float in the Dead Sea—all in one day—this tour covers it all with a local touch and plenty of real moments along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The day kicked off right at 8am—our guide met us just outside our hotel in Bethlehem. If you’re coming from Jerusalem, it’s easy enough to hop off at Checkpoint 300 (the bus from Damascus Gate took me about half an hour). The air was still cool and a bit dusty as we walked up Manger Square. I’d seen photos of the Church of the Nativity before, but standing there, with the sound of bells echoing and a few street vendors already setting up, it felt different—almost quieter than I expected for such a famous spot.

Inside, our guide explained how this is actually the oldest church in daily use anywhere. We ducked down into the Cave of St. Jerome—there’s this faint smell of old stone and candle wax—and heard stories about how he translated the Bible right here. You’ll also see the Church of St. Catherine next door and the Milk Grotto shrine; locals say couples come here hoping for blessings. The walk through Beit Sahour is short but lively; you might catch a bakery pulling out fresh ka’ak bread if you’re lucky. Shepherd’s Field is just outside town—a quiet patch where you can almost picture the shepherds watching their flocks.

The drive out toward the Jordan River is pretty relaxing—air conditioning on, window cracked open for that dry breeze. We passed St. Theodosius’ Monastery and al-Eizariya (locals call it Bethany), which our guide pointed out as Lazarus’ village. At Qasr el Yahud, the baptismal site on the riverbank, some folks in our group even dipped their feet in or renewed their baptism. There’s a peaceful hush here, broken only by birds and the occasional group singing hymns.

The last stop: Dead Sea. It’s hard to describe floating in water that salty—you really do bob like a cork. The mud feels cool and gritty; people were laughing as they smeared it on their arms and faces. I rinsed off at one of those outdoor showers (don’t get it in your eyes!). Around 4pm we headed back to Bethlehem—tired but with that good kind of tired you get after seeing so much in one day.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bethlehem and Jordan River Tour

• Meet guide at Bethlehem hotel or Checkpoint 300
• Visit Church of the Nativity
• Explore Cave of St. Jerome
• Visit Church of St. Catherine
• See Milk Grotto Shrine
• Visit Shepherd's Field in Beit Sahour
• Drive past St. Theodosius' Monastery and al-Eizariya
• Visit Qasr el Yahud baptismal site
• Float in the Dead Sea and enjoy mineral mud
• Return to Bethlehem hotel or Checkpoint 300

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Absolutely—it’s designed for all ages and fitness levels. There’s some walking but nothing too strenuous, and we can use a stroller or pram if needed.

Do I need to bring my passport?

Yes, you’ll need your passport for crossing checkpoints and entering certain sites. Make sure it’s valid and bring it along on the day.

Can I get picked up from Jerusalem?

You’ll meet your guide at Checkpoint 300 on the Bethlehem side—it’s easy to reach by public bus from central Jerusalem.

What should I wear or bring?

Comfortable shoes are best since there’s some walking. Bring swimwear for the Dead Sea and maybe a change of clothes—the mud gets everywhere!

What’s included

Your private tour includes pickup and drop-off at either your Bethlehem hotel or Checkpoint 300, an experienced local driver-guide throughout the day, all transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, and plenty of time at each site so you never feel rushed.