Country(ies): Israel
Tour type: Small Group
Group size: Min: 2 | Max: 45
Accommodation:3 to 4-star hotels
Meals: Breakfasts - 7, Lunches - 0, Dinners - 2
Transport: A/C car/minibus/coach
Highlights:Tel Aviv, Roman ruins at Caesarea, Druze villages, Golan Heights wine tasting, Haifa, Sea of Galilee, Tiberias, Nazareth, Masada fortress by cable car, Bethlehem, Dead Sea swim, old & new Jerusalem
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Israel's rich heritage with our Classic Israel tour, crafted to showcase the diverse cultures, religions, and histories that shape this remarkable country. No matter your background or beliefs, this tour offers a deep dive into Israel's multifaceted legacy, highlighting both ancient treasures and contemporary wonders.
The journey begins in Jerusalem, a city of profound historical and spiritual significance. Explore the winding streets of the Old City, where each stone tells a story of pilgrimage, conflict, and devotion. Visit the sacred sites of Nazareth, central to Christian tradition, and Bethlehem, where the spirit of the nativity scene infuses the very air.
Next, ascend to the dramatic heights of Masada, overlooking the vast desert below. Ride the cable car to the top for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, and step into the story of resistance that Masada immortalizes. Then, float in the rejuvenating waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, known for its healing properties and stunning, surreal environment.
Heading north, the tour takes you through the lush landscapes of the Galilee and the commanding Golan Heights. By the peaceful shores of Galilee, where history and miracles intertwine, enjoy the tranquility of the region. Then, explore the Golan Heights, where expansive views unfold amidst a mix of beauty and conflict.
Along the way, key cities enrich the experience. Haifa, a city of contrasts where spirituality and modernity coexist on Mount Carmel's slopes. Caesarea, where the ruins of a grand ancient city stand as a tribute to Roman imperialism. Acre, whose historic fortifications tell tales of Crusader-era conquest.
Tel Aviv, Israel’s bustling modern hub, contrasts sharply with its ancient surroundings. Yet, even here, history is ever-present in Jaffa, an ancient port city where the past meets the present in a vibrant blend of culture and life.
As the tour concludes, the profound connection between history, faith, and culture becomes clear, revealing the enduring beauty of Israel. Whether you are a pilgrim or a traveller, the Classic Israel tour offers a journey through time, where each stop uncovers a new layer of this extraordinary land.
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Upon arrival at the airport, a representative will greet you and arrange your transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to unwind or venture out and explore the city at your leisure.
OVERNIGHT:
Tel Aviv hotel
MEALS:
None
EXTRAS:
None
Today marks the official start of our tour. We'll set off from Tel Aviv and drive south, passing the cities of Ashdod, Ashkelon, and Beersheba, the capital of the Negev Desert.
We continue on to Masada, Israel's premier archaeological park. After ascending by cable car, we'll begin a thorough visit to learn about the rituals, politics, and culture of the people who once inhabited this desert fortress. You'll explore the excavations, Herod's palaces, the synagogue, and bathhouse while enjoying incredible views of the Roman camps and the Dead Sea.
We later descend to the Dead Sea, the lowest place on Earth, to experience its mineral-rich black mud and float in its incredibly salty waters.
The day ends with a drive through the Judean Desert to Jerusalem, passing the oasis of Ein Gedi on the way.
OVERNIGHT:
Jerusalem hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
Today, we head towards Mount Scopus, passing by the British WWI cemetery, Hadassah Hospital, and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, offering a stunning panoramic view of the Old City.
Our journey continues to the Israel Museum, home to the Dead Sea Scrolls displayed in the Shrine of the Book. We will also explore the large-scale, restored model of Herodian-era Jerusalem.
Next, we visit Yad Vashem, the international Holocaust memorial, before heading to the scenic village of Ein Karem for an afternoon drive.
In the later part of the day, we make our way to Bethlehem to see the birthplace of Jesus at the Church of the Nativity and Manger Square.
OVERNIGHT:
Jerusalem hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
We step back in time and explore the ancient Old City of Jerusalem, starting our journey by entering through one of its gates into the walled city. We will visit the revitalized Jewish Quarter and wander through the vibrant Souk.
Our walk continues along the Via Dolorosa, pausing at each of the Stations of the Cross, concluding at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. We will also visit Mount Zion, including King David’s tomb, the Room of the Last Supper, and Dormition Abbey.
In the afternoon, we head to Mahane Yehuda, where we immerse ourselves in the sights, sounds, and scents of the bustling market, interacting with the traders at Israel’s largest open-air marketplace.
OVERNIGHT:
Jerusalem hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
We depart from Jerusalem today, heading northward, passing Jericho and the world's oldest city. Our journey takes us through the Jordan Valley and new settlements toward Beit Shean, where we will explore the well-preserved Roman ruins.
Next, we ascend to the Golan Heights for an immersive experience in Israel's wine country, complete with a guided tour, wine tasting, and insight into the wine production process. Following this, we drive through the Golan, passing Druze villages, former Syrian military posts, and enjoy sweeping views of Mount Hermon as we approach Syria.
We then descend into the Hula Valley, continuing to Tiberias, located on the Sea of Galilee's shores. Tiberias is one of the four Holy cities in Judaism, where the Jewish Talmud—the central text of Jewish law—was compiled, and the city is home to the tombs of many revered Rabbis.
OVERNIGHT:
Tiberias hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
Along the coast of the Sea of Galilee, head towards Capernaum to explore the remains of the ancient synagogue, the Mount of Beatitudes, the traditional location of the ‘Sermon on the Mount,’ and Tabgha, believed to be the site of the ‘miracle of the loaves and the fish.’
While here, we offer an optional boat ride on the Sea of Galilee, allowing you to experience its peacefulness and views that have remained largely unchanged over the last 2000 years (subject to conditions, additional fee if available).
Later, we proceed to Nazareth to visit the Church of the Annunciation and other significant Christian sites. Our day concludes with a return to Tiberias for an overnight stay.
OVERNIGHT:
Tiberias hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast, Dinner
EXTRAS:
None
After breakfast, we begin the final day of our tour with a scenic drive through the hills of Galilee, heading west toward Acre (Akko) to explore the historic Crusader stronghold and its medieval fortifications.
Next, we proceed to Haifa for a panoramic sightseeing tour, which includes visits to the Baha'i Shrine, Persian Garden, Mount Carmel, and Haifa Bay. We then travel along the Mediterranean coast to Caesarea to explore the Roman Theater and the Crusader fortress, renowned as the 'masterpiece of Herod the Great.'
The day concludes with a brief city tour of Tel Aviv and the ancient port of Jaffa.
OVERNIGHT:
Tel Aviv hotel
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
The tour concludes today, and you'll be escorted to the airport for your flight home. Feel free to reach out if you'd like to extend your journey.
OVERNIGHT:
N/A
MEALS:
Breakfast
EXTRAS:
None
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Starting in March 2024, please be aware of the following updates to the itinerary:
The departure dates and prices are listed below. Kindly wait for your booking confirmation from us before booking any international flights. Private tours can also be arranged on other dates for an additional fee - please get in touch with us for more information.
Select the currency that works best for you by clicking one of the icons below. Whether you prefer US Dollars (USD), Euros (EUR), British Pounds (GBP), or any of our other supported currencies, simply tap the flag or symbol to instantly update all prices site-wide.
The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level. In general, specific hotels cannot be guaranteed on our group tours, but you may select your preferred options if you are booking a tailor-made trip.
Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the destination you're visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.
The detailed Tour Notes below have been written to give you some more detailed information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday. We recommend downloading an up to date copy of these shortly before you travel in case of any changes.
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