Israel

Dripping in history, Israel’s ancient cities and magnificent landscapes are mesmerizing to explore and the sheer wealth of historic and religious sites is astounding. The Holy Land is home to some of the most important sites of three of the world’s major religions; the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Western Wall, and Al-Aqsa Mosque are just some of the stupendous sights you can expect to see.

Israel, a Middle Eastern country on the Mediterranean Sea, is regarded by Jews, Christians, and Muslims as the biblical Holy Land. Its most sacred sites are in Jerusalem. Within its Old City, the Temple Mount complex includes the Dome of the Rock shrine, the historic Western Wall, Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Israel’s financial hub, Tel Aviv, is known for its Bauhaus architecture and beaches.

To the north lie Nazareth and the freshwater Sea of Galilee, important New Testament sites in the life of Jesus. Haifa offers vistas from Mount Carmel and manicured terraced gardens. Down the coast are the ruins of Caesarea, King Herod’s Roman port. The 1st-century-B.C. clifftop fortress Masada overlooks the Dead Sea, known for its spas and mineral-heavy water. In the south, hiking trails cross the Negev Desert. At the southern tip, Eilat is a Red Sea resort with coral reefs and high-rise hotels.

With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. To help you out, here are some of the best tours that will take you to all corners of this amazing country.

1. Masada & The Dead Sea Full Day Tour from Tel Aviv

Masada & The Dead Sea Full Day

A very popular tour that comes highly rated by those who have been on it, this full-day excursion sees you visit the spectacular Masada and float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea.

After you are picked up from Tel Aviv, you will be whisked away to the ancient King Herod fortress at Masada; the panoramic views of the Judean Hills are mesmerizingly beautiful.

Having learned about the history of the place, it is time to head to the Dead Sea, where you can bathe in the healing waters and take a replenishing mud bath. A marvelous day out, this tour is well worth checking out.

2. From Tel Aviv: Jerusalem, Dead Sea & Bethlehem Full-Day Tour

Jerusalem

Jam-packed with amazing things to see and do, this full-day tour will live long in the memory, as you visit not only Jerusalem and the Dead Sea but Bethlehem too.

Wandering around the Old City of Jerusalem is an incredible experience; you’ll be astounded at the age and majesty of everything before you. Highlights include stops at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Western Wall.

After that, it’s off to the Dead Sea, where you can take a dip in its therapeutic waters. If you so desire, you can also include a trip to Bethlehem where Jesus Christ was reportedly born.

In the afternoon, begin heading east through the Judean Desert passing the Inn of the Good Samaritan and stop at the Baptism site of Qasr al Yehud. Enjoy a journey to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth and savor bathing and floating upon the therapeutic waters. At 4:30 PM leave the Dead Sea and return to Tel Aviv. Arrival should be around 7:00 PM.

3. New Jerusalem: Holy City Tour

Jerusalem

With over 5000 years of history on offer, exploring Jerusalem is a captivating affair. This tour will certainly set your heart racing with all the beautiful, historic sights that you pass by.

With stops at the Temple Mount, Dome of the Rock, and Zion Gate included and an expert guide on hand, you’ll learn all there is to know about these incredible sights.

Dripping in history, Jerusalem needs to be seen to be believed; visitors invariably come away astounded at all that this amazing city has to offer.

4. Caesarea, Haifa & Akko Day Trip from Tel Aviv

Caesarea

A wonderful tour, this day-trip picks you up from Tel Aviv and takes you to explore the country’s Mediterranean Coastline. On the way, you’ll see Roman Ruins, lush gardens, and beautiful grottoes.

Starting out in Caesarea, you’ll wander around one of the largest Roman amphitheaters ever built, before exploring the delightful harbor city. After that, it’s off to Haifa to enjoy the spectacular Baha’i Gardens.

The day culminates in a visit to Akko, which has a charming port, bustling bazaar, and beautiful city walls, as well as stunning views out over the Mediterranean.

5. Nazareth, Tiberias & Sea of Galilee Day Trip from Tel Aviv

Nazareth

On this full-day tour from Tel Aviv, you’ll visit some of the most famous and beautiful sights in the whole of the Holy Land. This tour is wildly popular amongst people who have been on it.

Starting off in Nazareth, your guide will tell you all there is to know about the Church of Annunciation and other historic sites before you head off to the Mount of Beatitudes in Tiberias.

In addition to this, you’ll stop by the Jordan River, where you can get baptized. There are further visits included to the ancient synagogue of Capernaum and the Sea of Galilee.

6. New Jerusalem: Mount of Olives Tour

Mount Of Olives Tour

A very important burial place, Mount of Olives is full of history and has been used for millennia by numerous kingdoms and empires. The view of Jerusalem is simply stunning.

This three-hour tour will teach you all about the rich history of the place and your knowledgeable guide will entertain and inform you in equal measure about the Mount of Olives.

On the way up the hillside, you’ll visit the olive trees themselves, find hidden treasures, and stop by the Church of Mary’s Tomb – among other impressive sights.

7. Dead Sea, Jerusalem, and Bethlehem: Full-Day Tour from Eilat

Dead Sea

Starting out from Eilat, this fantastic full-day tour takes you through the wilderness of the Negev Desert until you reach the Dead Sea, where you can bathe in its healing waters.

After that, head to marvelous Jerusalem. The tour of the Old City is particularly memorable, as you wander along Via Dolorosa and stop by such historic sites as the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

The day culminates with an optional visit to Bethlehem, where you can check out the renowned Church of the Nativity and learn all about the historic site.

8. Old Jaffa & Tel Aviv Segway Tour

Old Jaffa & Tel Aviv Segway Tour

Great fun, this segway tour is a thrilling way to explore the ancient port of Jaffa. On the way, you’ll pass the old city walls, Beit Bialik, and the first Jewish neighborhood that sprung up outside of the city.

After that, it’s time to shoot off and explore the bustling streets of Tel Aviv. A very multicultural and open place, there is lots of lovely architecture on show for visitors to enjoy; the old buildings will almost make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Full of life and energy, Tel Aviv is very interesting to segway around. Your professional guide will tell you all there is to know about Israel’s second city.

9. Bethlehem Half-Day Tour From Jerusalem or Tel Aviv

Bethlehem

Dripping in history, Bethlehem is a fascinating place to visit and is known around the world as the birthplace of Jesus Christ.

As such, many of the sights are religious in nature. The Church of Nativity is the undoubted highlight of what is on offer and it is one of the oldest churches still in use today.

With stops at the Mosque of Omar and Church of Shepherd’s Field also included, you’re sure to come away having learned loads about one of the holiest sites on Earth.

10. Biblical Tour: Northern Israel Full Day Tour

Sea Of Galilee

A fascinating experience, this trip around Northern Israel is mesmerizing for the wealth of historic sites on show. Visitors invariably come away impressed at all they’ve seen and done.

With visits to Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee included, you’ll stop by lots of Biblical sites as well as the Church of Annunciation and the beautiful Church of St. Joseph.

Accompanied by an expert guide, you’ll learn about the religious sites. A memorable day comes to a close with a visit to Yardenit, which is a famous Baptismal site.

11. Tel Aviv City Walking Tour in English

Tel Aviv

A magnificent city to wander around, this walking tour will take you to all of Tel Aviv’s main sights. On the way, your guide will inform and entertain you in equal measure about life in the city.

The second largest city in Israel, Tel Aviv is full of amazing historical sites, beautiful architecture, and bustling markets.

With a lively atmosphere about the place, you’re sure to enjoy learning all about its intoxicating mix of cultures and the history of the city itself.

12. Jerusalem Old & New City Tour from Tel Aviv

Jerusalem

Jerusalem is renowned throughout the world as one of the holiest cities on Earth and is important to Muslims, Christians and Jews alike. Consequently, there is loads to see and do and this tour will take you to all the best sights.

Wandering around the city is an incredible experience and, with over five thousand years of history packed into the Old City, each building you pass will appear more majestic than the previous one.

With a knowledgeable guide on hand, you’ll come away with a greater understanding of Jerusalem. As soon as you leave, you’ll be itching to return to this incredible place.

13. 1-Hour Segway Tour of Jaffa

Jaffa, Israel

Weaving your way around Jaffa on a segway is an exhilarating way to see the ancient port; the views out over the Mediterranean are breathtakingly beautiful.

Accompanied by a professional guide, you’ll learn loads about the city and feel safe while having fun on the segway.

The tour takes you along the Tel Aviv-Jaffa Boardwalk, through part of the city and along the seafront, which offers up such wonderful vistas of the city’s coastline.

14. Full-Day Tour of Hebron & West Bank from Jerusalem

Hebron

A very interesting tour, this excursion sees you visit both Israel and Palestine. You’re sure to come away with a greater understanding of what life is like in Hebron for both peoples as you are accompanied by both an Israeli and Palestinian guide.

With a visit to a settler community, the Beit Hadassah Museum, and a restored synagogue included in the Israeli part of the tour, it is a captivating affair; your expert Israeli guide will tell you all about the sites you stop by.

On the Palestinian part of the tour, you visit the spectacular Ibrahimi Mosque, the bustling Casbah Market, and cross through one of the many checkpoints that are scattered about the West Bank.

15. Jerusalem: The Shabbat Experience 2–Hour Walking Tour

Shabbat Walking Tour

This two-hour walking tour is a great way to experience the Jewish Shabbat and visitors are sure to come away with a greater understanding of this special day of rest.

Accompanied by an expert guide, you’ll learn about various aspects of Judaism and you’ll also pass by the four Sephardic synagogues.

The tour culminates in a visit to the Western Wall. There is an intoxicating atmosphere about the place as Jews from all walks of life come to pray and worship at the holy site.

Jerusalem is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, and is the epicenter of importance for the Christian, Jewish, and Islamic religions.

That fact has led to strife and conflict for much of the city’s history, and over its lifespan the city has been captured, recaptured, destroyed, and rebuilt countless times.

The city is often referred to as the City of David, and according to historians was originally settled in the 4th millennium BCE.

With its vibrant and varied cultures, amazing architecture, and unparalleled history, it’s a place full of things to see and do for tourists from around the world.

1. Jerusalem Three Religions Holy City Walking Tour with Guide

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Jerusalem Three Religions Holy City Walking Tour

As the spiritual heart of 3 of the world’s great religions, Jerusalem is a city that’s revered by Jews, Muslims, and Christians alike.

The guided 4-hour walking tour will help visitors get a grasp of the city’s struggles and conflicts that have been going on for nearly 4,000 years.

Stops include Jerusalem’s Old City and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher which sits on a hill in Calvary that was the supposed crucifixion and burial site of Jesus Christ.

Your local guide will give guests an insightful narration along the way, and the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque are on the itinerary as well.

2. West Bank Full-Day Tour from Jerusalem

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West Bank Full-Day Tour From Jerusalem

This all-inclusive, full-day tour of the West Bank includes a stop at the site that most Christians believe was the place where Jesus was baptized.

The ancient city of Jericho is another popular stop and includes a visit to the Mount of Temptation on a hill overlooking the city.

In many ways the West Bank is full of contrasts, with its ancient sites surrounded by relatively modern buildings and a chaotic commercial area.

It’s also the final resting place of Yasser Arafat, a hero and martyr to the Palestinian people.

The tour includes entry to all the sites and lunch, but bring some extra money for drinks and snacks.

3. Full-Day Trip to Jerusalem and Bethlehem from Tel Aviv

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Jerusalem

For those staying in Tel Aviv but interested in experiencing the history and culture of Jerusalem, this full-day tour is a great option.

Hotel pickup in Tel Aviv is included, and from there guests will be driven by air-conditioned bus to Jerusalem accompanied by a private and professional guide.

Tour highlights include Mount Scopus, Temple Mount Esplanade, and the Garden of Gethsemane.

It’ll be like stepping back in time as the tour stops in the Armenian Quarter and at the Wailing Wall, which is a particularly dramatic and poignant place.

Everything is included but food, drinks and gratuities for you guide.

4. Masada, Ein Gedi, and Dead Sea Tour from Jerusalem

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Masada

This 9-hour tour will allow travelers to experience the country’s majestic mountains, vast deserts, and shimmering seas all in one value-packed day.

One of the tour’s most popular activities is riding the cable car to the mountain top fortress known as Masada, which was the site of an important historical event in centuries past.

From the high-altitude vantage point guests will enjoy unobstructed views of the Ein Gedi desert oasis far below.

Guests will also enjoy a trip to the Dead Sea where they’ll have the opportunity to take a dip and rub some of its therapeutic mud on their skin.

5. Jerusalem Old and New City Tour from Tel Aviv

This Jerusalem Old and New Cities tour from Tel Aviv gives history-minded travelers an 11-hour look into the city’s biblical history, with stops at the Mount of Olives, Church of the Holy Sepulcher, Mount Zion, and the Holocaust Museum.

You’ll mingle with visitors from many nations and faiths on this tour, and it’s one of the best ways to get an in-depth understanding of all the forces at work in the area.

Tel Aviv hotel pickup and drop-off are included, as are the entry fees to all the sites you’ll visit on the tour. Bring some extra money for food and drinks.

6. Full-day Jerusalem, Dead Sea and Bethlehem Tour from Tel Aviv

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Bethlehem

The drive from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem takes less than an hour, so it’s a convenient way to see the historic city without dealing with another change of hotels.

This tour starts early and begins with the Old City and includes stops at the Via Dolorosa, Church of the Sepulcher, and some amazingly exotic and bustling local markets.

Perhaps the tour’s gem though is a visit to the Church of the Nativity, a place where many believe that Jesus Christ was born.

In the afternoon the tour will visit the biblically famous Inn of the Good Samaritan, after which guests will have a chance to float in the Dead Sea.

7. Relaxing Dead Sea Day Trip from Jerusalem

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Dead Sea

After a few days of being bombarded with so much ancient history, religion and conflict, perhaps a relaxing day away from all that would be a great way to recharge those diminishing batteries.

If that sounds like a good idea, consider this Dead Sea ‘chill out’ tour.

You’ll get to float in the mineral and salt rich water, and rub some thick and gooey Dead Sea mud onto your skin as well.

Rumor has it that it works wonders opening pores and rejuvenating skin, especially skin that’s been exposed to too much harsh desert sun.

The afternoon tour lasts about 4 hours and will have guests back in town in time for dinner and an evening adventure.

8. Israeli Cooking Class

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Israeli Cooking Class

With so many international influences and exotic ingredients, it’s no wonder that Israeli food is tasty and healthy.

One of the country’s most traditional dishes is shakshouka, that’s made with eggs, onions and tomatoes and is roasted in an oven.

It includes other locally-sourced ingredients as well, and has its roots in North African cultures.

The cooking class is a great way to meet fellow travelers, have a great time and enjoy the tasty fruits of your labor.

The class takes place in the Abraham Hostel in Tel Aviv, and all the ingredients, equipment, and training you’ll need are provided.

9. Shabbat Walking Tour

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Wailing Wall, Jerusalem

This Shabbat, or Sabbath walking tour in Jerusalem’s Jewish quarter lasts 2 hours and is a great way to experience local customs and culture while watching the sun set over the city’s ancient walls.

It’s a fascinating look into the practices of Orthodox Jews who end their work days early and go home to welcome the end of the week with friends and family.

On the Sabbath, Jews congregate in masses at sites like the Western Wall, and the migration is one to behold.

The ritual is celebrated uniquely at different sites, and they’re all amazing glimpses into such an ancient religion.

10. Mount of Olives Tour

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Mount of Olives View

The Mount of Olives is one of the best vantage points from which to get unobstructed views of the sprawling and picturesque city of Jerusalem.

It’s also a historically important place, and bears the influences of centuries of conquerors and occupiers.

Pilgrims flock to the Mount because it’s considered by many to be the place that Jesus spent some of his last days alive, and it’s also thought to be the place where the End of Days will begin to unravel.

Hopefully that prophecy won’t come true while you’re there, and you’ll also see the Garden of Gethsemane and Mary’s Tomb.

11. Nazareth, Tiberias, and Sea of Galilee Day Tour from Jerusalem

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Nazareth

Nearly every corner of Jerusalem is filled with sites that are considered sacred by either Christians, Jews, or Muslims, and trying to see them on your own without the assistance of a guide can be stressful and overwhelming.

On this tour your guide will lead you to the city’s most significant sites in a way that will give you a unique sense of their history, and an idea of how the city is laid out as well.

Nazareth, the Sea of Galilee and the Church of the Multiplication are a few of the tour’s key stops, and between sites you’ll be able to relax in a roomy and air-conditioned coach.

12. Mahane Yehuda Market Tasting Tour

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Mahane Yehuda Market

No matter where in the world you find yourself, touring local markets is one of the best and least expensive ways to get a street-level insight into the local people, their culture and their food.

This Yehuda Market guided-tour and tasting will lead guests through the winding passageways between stalls from which vendors sell lots of interesting things.

Ingredients, clothes and local made arts and crafts are everywhere, and the market is known as a local hotspot for local and visiting foodies.

The tour lasts about 3 hours and will be a pleasant change from the historical sites that have probably occupied most of your time.

13. Vegan Food Tour of Tel Aviv

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Vegan Food Tour Through Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is an easy 30-minute drive from Jerusalem, and if you’re a vegan foodie in search of some history and local sustenance, this vegan food tour would be a great way to get your fill of both.

The tour is conducted on foot, and guests will visit 4 local vegan eateries that are especially known for their amazing fare.

Samples will be provided along the way, and you’ll get to meet and rub elbows with some likeminded locals and tourists as well.

It’s a great way to take a much-needed break from Jerusalem and all its intensely cerebral sites.

14. Jeep Tour from Jerusalem to Mar Saba Monastery, Wadi Qelt

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Mar Saba Monastery

Deserts and Jeeps go together like ham and cheese, and if you’re up for some 4-wheel-drive antics in the Judean desert, this excursion is for you.

It’s an all-day affair and will include stops at the Mar Saba Monastery and Wadi Qelt, which are a few of Israel’s most revered sites and are on the periphery of one of the world’s great deserts.

The tour will also swing by the legendary Tomb of Moses, a cliff-side monastery and a nature preserve before stopping for an afternoon coffee and heading back into town.

This tour is a great mix of adventure and culture that shouldn’t be missed by lovers of both.

15. Private Christian Tour of Jerusalem and Bethlehem

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Bethlehem

Even for those with just a basic knowledge of the Bible, it’s pretty obvious that Bethlehem and Jerusalem are a few of the most historically significant cities in the region.

This private Christian tour includes a local guide and includes pickup from your hotel and return transportation when the tour is over.

Your guide will lead you and your companions to some of the city’s most important sites like the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, Church of the Nativity, and the Chapel of Saint Helena.

It’s a value-packed, two city tour that’s a super way for Christian believers to get up close and personal with the origins of their faith.

15 Best Jerusalem Tours .