Iconic Israel

Welcome to Tel Aviv, a thriving, reinvented city on the Mediterranean coast. Feel the bustling energy humming around you and jump right into this epicenter of Israeli-chic. The city cultivates an ever-evolving restaurant scene paired with sparkling coastlines, resulting in an irresistible hub of urban sophistication. This is Tel Aviv, a non-stop celebration of innovation and excitement.

Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a welcome reception at your hotel. Stay: Isrotel Sea Tower Hotel (2 Nights)

This morning, explore Tel Aviv's “White City” (UNESCO), highlighting famous Bauhaus architecture. Then it's on to Carmel Market for a walking food tour. Sample fresh hummus and savory street foods as you connect with the locals, getting a true taste of everyday life.

This afternoon, walk the narrow stone streets of Jaffa, an ancient port city. Enjoy an evening at leisure to take in the sunset along Tel Aviv's rejuvenated waterfront promenade or delve into the city's captivating nightlife of rooftop lounges, sophisticated cocktail bars, and more. (B/L)

Follow the coast to the ruins of the ancient city of Caesarea, built by Herod the Great in the 1st century BC. Pause for a visit of a winery set among the hills of the Galilee region. Enjoy a light lunch accompanied by the wines produced on the farm.

This evening, set sail on the tranquil waters of the Sea of Galilee aboard a replica boat reminiscent of the 1st century. Your day comes to a close in Tiberias, your home for the next 2 nights. (B/L/D) Stay: Leonardo Plaza Hotel (2 Nights)

Begin your day by exploring the excavated ruins of Magdala, regarded to be the hometown of Mary Magdalene, and find an ancient city of stone carvings and excavated temples. Visit the Mount of Beatitudes, an overlook from where Jesus preached the Sermon of the Mount. Journey to Maghar and chat with locals over a plate of enticing Arabic food during a home-hosted lunch with members of the Druze community. (B/L/D)

Depart Tiberias for the historic city of Nazareth. Visit the Church of the Annunciation and Mary's Well. Continue south to the Mount of Olives and marvel at the all-encompassing view of Jerusalem, including the shining Dome of the Rock. Housing layers of history and heritage, allow the resilient spirit of the city to capture your senses.

Tonight, get to know a local family as you enjoy a traditional meal in their home. (B/D) Stay: Dan Panorama (4 Nights)

Walk in the footsteps of millions before you and discover the old walled city of Jerusalem (UNESCO). On this walking tour, see the Western (Wailing) Wall and the storied path of the Stations of the Cross. Immerse yourself in the everyday culture of Jerusalem's Shuk (the Bazaars of the Old City), with each narrow street dedicated to different trades passed down through generations. As you explore, breathe in the smell of freshly baked bread, roasting sesame seeds, and savory spices. The remainder of the day is yours. Perhaps you will join an optional tour of Jerusalem by night, which includes a sound and light show. (B/D)

Begin your day with a poignant visit to Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center. You won't just tour this powerful museum, but you'll get to have an open conversation with a Holocaust survivor. The rest of your day is at leisure to explore more of Jerusalem. Perhaps you'll visit the Israel Museum to view the Dead Sea scrolls or consider an optional trip to the city of Bethlehem, spread along the Judean Hills. Visit the Church of the Nativity – the birthplace of Jesus and the first church ever built. (B)

Travel to the desert fortress of Masada (UNESCO), situated on a cliff next to the Dead Sea. Ascend the ancient walls of Masada by cable car and explore Herod's Palaces, the Roman Camp, and the Synagogue. Float in the tranquil healing waters of the Dead Sea, experiencing its unique natural buoyancy.

This evening, toast the end to an incredible journey during a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)

Your tour comes to a close today. (B)