Jerusalem and the Dead Sea 3-Day Tour

Overview

The Jerusalem and the Dead Sea 3-Day Tour offers an in-depth exploration of Jerusalem’s most significant religious, historical, and archaeological sites, paired with a relaxing visit to the Dead Sea. Designed for travelers who want to truly understand Jerusalem beyond a single day, this tour layers the experience gradually, moving from classic Old City highlights to underground archaeology and finally to a walking-focused journey through sites tied to the final days of Jesus. Overnight stays in Jerusalem keep the pace comfortable while allowing each day to focus on a distinct theme.

Day 1: Jerusalem Old City and the Dead Sea

The tour begins at Mount Scopus, where panoramic views stretch across Jerusalem toward the Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock. From here, the route passes the Garden of Gethsemane, the Church of All Nations, and the Kidron Valley before entering the Old City through Zion Gate.

Inside the Old City, you explore the Jewish Quarter, seeing the excavated Byzantine Cardo and visiting the Western Wall. The tour then follows the Via Dolorosa, retracing Jesus’ path to Calvary, and arrives at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of Christianity’s most sacred sites.

After lunch and time in the Old City market, the tour departs Jerusalem and descends below sea level toward the Dead Sea. The afternoon is spent relaxing on a Dead Sea beach, floating effortlessly in the mineral-rich water, and enjoying the famous black mud before returning to Jerusalem for the overnight stay.

Day 2: City of David and Underground Jerusalem

Day two focuses on Jerusalem’s ancient foundations. The day starts again at Mount Scopus, offering a fresh perspective over the Old City, the Kidron Valley, and the Garden of Gethsemane. You then enter the Old City through Zion Gate, walking through the Armenian Quarter and into the Jewish Quarter.

Highlights include the Byzantine Cardo, the Western Wall, and a visit to King David’s Tomb on Mount Zion, along with nearby Sephardi synagogues. Leaving the Old City through the Dung Gate, the tour descends underground into the City of David, the original Jerusalem settlement dating back over 3,000 years.

Here, you explore ancient tunnels carved through rock to channel water from the Spring of Gihon, gaining insight into how Jerusalem survived and thrived in antiquity. This underground experience adds a powerful archaeological dimension to the tour. Overnight stay is again in Jerusalem.

Day 3: Jerusalem in the Footsteps of Jesus

The final day is a walking-intensive exploration tracing the final days of Jesus. Beginning on the Mount of Olives, you visit key sites including the Church of the Ascension, the Church of the Pater Noster, and Dominus Flevit, with sweeping views over Jerusalem.

The route continues to the Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations, then moves into the Old City to visit the Pools of Bethesda and the Church of St. Anne. Portions of the Via Dolorosa are walked again, this time in a deeper narrative context. This day covers more than five miles over hilly terrain and concludes the tour with a powerful and immersive experience.

What Guests Say

Guests often highlight the depth of the itinerary, noting that the tour goes far beyond a standard Jerusalem visit. Many appreciate the knowledgeable guides who clearly explain both the religious and archaeological significance of each site. The contrast between the Old City, the underground City of David, and the relaxing Dead Sea visit is frequently mentioned as a standout feature. Travelers also value the well-paced structure and overnight stays that keep the experience comfortable.

Why You’ll Love It

This tour allows you to experience Jerusalem layer by layer, from its ancient underground foundations to its most sacred Christian landmarks. Floating in the Dead Sea adds a unique moment of relaxation, while the final walking day brings the story of Jesus’ final days into sharp focus. With expert guides and a thoughtfully structured itinerary, the journey feels immersive, meaningful, and well-balanced across all three days.

Summary

The Jerusalem and the Dead Sea 3-Day Tour offers a layered and meaningful exploration of Jerusalem, combining iconic holy sites, underground archaeology, and the natural wonder of the Dead Sea. With three distinct days and overnight stays in Jerusalem, the itinerary delivers depth, balance, and a complete understanding of one of the world’s most fascinating cities.