Embark on an 10-day private journey through the enchanting landscapes and sites of the Holy Land. This bespoke tour invites you to delve into the heart of this great nation, where biblical heritage seamlessly blends with modern innovation. From the vibrant streets of Tel Aviv to the historic sites of Jerusalem, from the Negev to the Galilee, each day promises a new, exciting, multifaceted experience.
Shalom and welcome to Israel! After landing in Israel, check in to your chosen hotel in Tel-Aviv to settle in and refresh. Depending on your time of arrival, join your guide for a tour of Old Jaffa. Stroll through its charming cobblestone streets and explore its architectural gems. Learn about Jaffa’s rich history, intertwined with figures like King Solomon, the Prophet Jonah, and Saint Peter. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at one of Tel-Aviv’s excellent dining options.
Start your day in the historic Neve Tzedek neighborhood, known for its pedestrian streets and boutique shops. Continue into Tel-Aviv and visit Israel’s Independence Hall. This historic landmark is where Ben-Gurion declared Israel’s Independence in 1948, one of the most pivotal moments in Jewish History. Take a walk along Rothschild Boulevard, known for its Bauhaus architecture and vibrant street life. After a lunch break continue to the Palmach Museum for a unique sensory experience of the pre-1948 Jewish fighting force. Alternatively, sign up for the high-end Israeli Airforce fighter jet simulator – The Squadron.
Heading north, visit the Roman-era metropolis of Caesarea Maritima, founded by King Herod over 2,000 years ago. Explore the city’s theatre, hippodrome, and Herod’s Palace, where the Apostle Paul was imprisoned (Acts 24). Tour the new visitors center and enjoy a lunch break next to Herod’s sunken harbor. Journey on to Muhraka atop Mount Carmel which commemorates Elijah’s triumph over the Ba’al prophets (1 Kings 18). In addition to its religious significance, the site also provides sweeping views of northern Israel.
Embarking on a journey to the northern border, start at Tel Dan, an archaeological site associated with the Golden Calf (1 Kings 12). Moving on, in Caesarea-Philippi (Banias), see where Jesus reinstated Peter as his favored disciple (Matthew 16). Ascend the Golan Heights to savor a traditional Druze lunch, combining authentic local cuisine and hospitality. After lunch visit the 1973 “Valley of Tears” battle site and enjoy stunning panorama from Mount Bental. Oenophiles can consider ending the day in a local winery.
Start today at Capernaum, “the Town of Jesus” (Matthew 9:1), exploring the ancient synagogue and church believed to be built over St. Peter’s house. Nearby, at the Mount of Beatitudes, visit the remarkable church that commemorates Jesus’ renowned Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5; Luke 6). Head to Nazareth, a city deeply intertwined with Jesus’ early life. Enjoy a delightful Galilean lunch, and explore the Basilica of the Annunciation, commemorating the angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary. Conclude the day with a scenic ride through the Plains of Armageddon, en route to Jerusalem.
A tour of Jerusalem is a historical and spiritual enriching experience. Start with a visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre which marks the sites of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. Next, follow the Via Dolorosa, the historic route marking Jesus’ path to his crucifixion. Head on to the Western Wall, a remnant of the Second Temple, and into the Jewish Quarter. Here you can enjoy a delightful lunch and explore historical monuments like the Hurvah synagogue and the Cardo. Continue to Mount Zion for Historical landmarks like King David’s Tomb Mark and the Room of the Last Supper. Conclude the day with a drive to the top of Mount of Olives for stunning panoramas of Jerusalem.
Start the day at the City of David, the historical nucleus of Jerusalem. Review archeological finds relating to David’s palace, and hike down to the Gihon Spring, Jerusalem’s water source in biblical times. Reach the Pool of Siloam, where Jesus healed a blind man, and hike up an ancient drainage channel to the Southern Wall Archeological Park. Review the park’s rich remains, including dramatic evidence of Jerusalem’s destruction by the Romans in 70 AD, and head on to the Mahane Yudah Market. This lively open-air market is a great place for a lunch savoring local flavors – and a stroll through its bustling alleys. End your day exploring the nation’s most important museum, the Israel Museum. Its highlights include the Shrine of the Book, the Judaica the archaeological wings, and the Second Temple Model of Jerusalem.
Depart Jerusalem and traverse the picturesque landscapes of the Judean Desert, passing by Jericho and the Baptism site. Next to the Dead Sea, your guide will point to the caves where the famous Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Possibly visit Qumran, a mysterious archaeological site that may have been the headquarters of the group behind the Scrolls. Next, drive through Ein-Gedi Nature Reserve and observe its unique wildlife. Reach Masada and enjoy its visitor center and the comfortable cable car ride to the top. Here, embark on an immersive archeological expedition, tracing King Herod’s grand palaces and the ingenious water system. Along its western flank you’ll encounter the Roman ramp and the synagogue where the poignant decision of the last Jewish defenders may have been made. After a lunch break, experience the unique sensation of floating in the hyper-saline waters of the Dead Sea before heading to Eilat.
Overnight: Eilat
Make sure you have your passport and comfortable shoes as today you embark on a day tour to Petra. Once you cross the border, you’ll be greeted by the Jordanian guide who will arrange the 2-hour drive, passing through the rugged landscapes of Wadi Rum. Upon arrival, walk through the famous Siq, a winding canyon leading to the iconic Treasury (Al Khazane) monument. You’ll also pass by the royal tombs and Petra’s theatre and finally reach the city center. After a leisurely lunch, consider a hike to the Monastery (Ad-Deir) or to Petra’s High Place of Sacrifice. Enjoy also some free time for souvenir shopping before returning to Israel.
Take some time to relax with a late breakfast and start the day leisurely. Explore Eilat’s attractions, and especially snorkeling in the Red Sea to discover its vibrant marine life and coral reef. Alternatively, go for an introductory scuba dive where your private instructor holds your hand through the whole dive. If you prefer to stay dry, opt for a tour of Eilat’s Underwater Observatory or a private sail on the Red Sea. An afternoon domestic flight from Eilat to Ben-Gurion Airport will connect you with your departure flight. Farewell!!
