Israel Travel Blog

Whether you’re a practicing Christian, an amateur historian, a theology student or simply a curious tourist, we think it’s fair to say that there’s nowhere like Israel to spend Christmas. Actually, the fact is that Israel is probably the ultimate place to spend this time of the year, with cultural and religious events held throughout the country, both in the larger centres and smaller towns.Christmas tree in Bethlehem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockNow if you’re coming from North America, or Western Europe, the chances are that you’ll associate Christmas with the date 25th December, the date that many believe commemorates the birth of Jesus. However, in Israel, Christmas is actually celebrated on three different dates - December 25th, January 7th, and January 19th. This, of course, is because different denominations follow different calendars - the Roman Catholic church follows the Gregorian calendar whilst the Armenian Church (in Jerusalem) and the Greek Orthodox Church follow what is known as the Julian calendar. Which Calendar?What does that mean in practice? Well, essentially that Roman Catholics (as well as Anglicans, Episcopalians, and Lutherans, celebrate on December 25th, and actually the Greek Orthodox Church celebrates on this day too. However, according to the Julian calendar, which is about 13 days out of sync with the Gregorian calendar. December 25th actually falls on January 7th!To make things even more complicated, the Armenian Church in Jerusalem celebrates Christmas on January 6th (according to the Julian calendar) which - in real terms - ends up being January 19th according to Gregorian calculations.Surprised Santa. Photo by krakenimages on UnsplashA Unique Experience in a Holy LandOver the years, in practice, Christmas celebrations in Israel have slowly become more aligned with Western celebrations - including the putting up of Christmas trees. Decorations of light and even Christmas markets. However, let us not forget that this is the Holy Land, and prayers, worship, celebrations, and the reciting of beautiful liturgies always take center stage, both in Bethlehem (famous for being the birthplace of Jesus) and many a communal feast!Ultimately, spending Christmas in the Holy Land has to be on many a bucket list and few come away from this kind of experience disappointed. So for those of you lucky to be arriving in a few months (and, sorry, as you know there are no guarantees, thanks to COVID-19), we thought we’d fill you in. It’s been a mad 18 months and having something to look forward to always helps so here’s our complete guide to the hows, wheres, and whys of Christmas events and services all over Israel. Happy Holidays everyone! Christmas in JerusalemThere’s no more atmospheric place to be than Jerusalem at Christmas time. The festival is really quite visible in the streets - with decorations and lights on many corners - more than anywhere else in Israel - which means you can really soak up the atmosphere. Whether you want to wander from church to church in the Old Cityor enjoy something a bit more modern around the Mamilla Mall or the YMCA, you won’t be short of activities to enjoy in a city that combines old with new.There are quite a few Christmas markets, the most popular of which seem to be the one at the New Gate that runs from Saturday to Tuesday in the week before Christmas Day (free entrance). For something more young and fun, head to the Abraham Hostel for their annual party, or walk over to the YMCA which holds a lovely evening each year, complete with carols, musical performances, and sometimes even dancing. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Church of the Holy SepulchreWithin the walls of the Old City, the most popular church to visit at this time of year is usually the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Believed to be the site where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected, each year it holds a solemn Midnight Mass and the atmosphere inside the church - lit with hundreds of candles - is nothing short of spectacular.There are also many other places to enjoy liturgy - both in the Christian and Armenian quarters and also at the Church of All Nations and also Dominus Flevit) with its famous and evocative glass window) on the nearby Mount of Olives. For a more detailed look at what to do in this extraordinary city, over December, take a look at our Christmas in Jerusalem article.Christmas in BethlehemAt this time of year, this small town just a few kilometers from Jerusalem comes to life, with Christians, Jews, and Muslims all celebrating together at the city’s central area, aptly named Manger Square. There’s a huge tree lit up for Christmas in Bethlehem, and you’ll no doubt hear carols being sung and have a chance to enjoy performances. Midnight Mass is held at the Church of the Nativity but, because of its popularity, entrance is by ticket only. But fear not - the mass is live screened around the world and you can watch it happening inside the church from a huge screen installed outside, in Manger Square. This really is an astonishing experience, and many visitors enjoy a Christmas Eve in Bethlehem Tour, which includes a festive meal in the area.Church of Shepherd's Field, Bethlehem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockChristmas in Nazareth - Market Stalls and Firework DisplaysNazareth might be a small city in comparison to Jerusalem, but it’s definitely worth a visit at this time of the year. Home to Israel’s largest Christian population, historically it was the place Mary was visited by the Angel Gabriel (announcing to her that she would bear a child) as well as being the place where Jesus spent his childhood. Nazareth is also within a short driving distance of the Sea of Galilee (if you’re in the mood for an outing and want to enjoy pastoral views, the famous baptismal site of Yardenit,and beautiful churches, including those where Jesus performed miracles and gave his famous Sermon on the Mount).Within Nazareth itself, there are beautiful churches to visit, including the Church of the Annunciation and the Church of St. Joseph. The city begins celebrating Christmas in the early part of December, with the lighting of a large Christmas tree in the city center. Trees are put up in many streets and there are also outdoor markets with stalls, where you can enjoy both Christmas and Hanukkah celebrations (Hanukkah is the Jewish festival of lights). On Christmas Eve, which is December 24th, why not join the afternoon parade which proceeds through streets towards the Church of the Annunciation, where you can afterwards enjoy a lovely firework display? Christmas mass is then held inside, at the Basilica, at 7 pm.Inside the Church of Annunciation, Nazareth.Photo credit: © ShutterstockChristmas in Jaffa -Music, Lights, Artwork and MassJaffa, which sits just south of Tel Aviv is another beautiful place where Jews, Christians, and Muslims have lived peacefully side by side for years now. In December, the vibrant Jaffa Flea Market (which is always good if you’re looking for vintage finds, cheap clothes, or just some ‘treasure’) is adorned with Christmas lights. After you’ve wandered the area, you can enjoy a light bite, some traditional hummus, or a local mint tea in one of the many cafes there, before taking a walk down to the historic Jaffa Port.On the way, stop on Yefet Street and admire the huge Christmas tree that stands by the Clock Tower. There are often Hanukkah celebrations at the same time (last year, there were illuminated dreidels - the toys that children spin on this fun Jewish festival). There’s lots of artwork to see and several musical performances, as well as lots of cultural and communal activities. You can attend Midnight Mass and other Christmas services at one of the Catholic and Protestant churches around the city:St. Peter's Church - this Franciscan church in the historical part of Jaffa is where St. Peter performed numerous miracles and, perched at the top of a hill, has been a Christian center for thousands of years.Immanuel Church - built in 1904, to accommodate the area’s German Evangelical community, this Lutheran church is always happy to greet new faces and stands on the foundation of Judaism and the Jewish People.St. Nicholas’s Monastery at the Jaffa Port - built in 1 CE, and today hosting an Armenian church, this is one of the oldest structures in Jaffa and Napoleon even visited his soldiers here in 1799!St. Anthony's Church - opened in 1932 and named after the monk Franciscan Mafdobe, a Franciscan patron, this church is very popular with Catholics. It offers beautiful interiors and a serene atmosphere. At its front, there is a unique clock.And just to make it clear, the doors of all of these churches are open for everyone - so whether you’re a local or tourist, a Christian, Muslim, or Jew you’re are welcome to pop in and experience some traditional Jaffa hospitality!Old City of Jaffa, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockChristmas in Haifa - The ‘Holiday of Holidays’Haifa is one of the few cities in Israel where Arabs and Jews actually live side by side, in relative harmony (and we say ‘Hallelujah’ to that!) A real Mediterranean city, situated on a hill and offering picturesque views of the surrounding Mount Carmel, it’s a wonderful place to walk around, with lovely architecture, small stores, and the famous Bahai Gardens.If you’re here in December, start with a walk around the traditional Wadi Nisnas neighborhood (a traditional and somewhat mixed area of Arabs and Jews). ‘Nisnas’ in Arabic means ‘mongoose’ and is a maze of old streets and alleyways, filled with small stores, bakeries, and artisan workshops.From there, you can head off into the German Colony, an area that has been beautifully restored in the last two decades. Look out for the famous Templar houses, built in the 1860’s - they have distinctive roofs - and stop for a coffee in one of the many bars and restaurants that line the main street.In the weeks before Christmas, Haifa loves to enjoy the 'Holiday of Holidays' with a series of events that mix up Christmas, Hanukkah, and Eid-al Adha! These include arts and crafts for kids, an antique fair, food prepared by the locals in Wadi Nisnas, music by local artists, and even a circus. And, naturally, there’s also a beautifully lit tree.Christmas tree.Photo by Kieran White on UnsplashTogether, this ‘Holiday of Holidays’ represents a marvelous idea - that of coexistence. It’s all about a group of residents that live together harmoniously, each showing respect for the other’s religious and cultural values, and understanding that their lives and destinies are truly interwoven. It represents all that is good in Haifa.You may also want to visit the Stella Maris Carmelite Monastery in Haifa and participate in carol singing and Midnight Mass or Christmas morning mass. It is a beautiful and historic church, dating back to Crusader times and actually associated with the prophet Elijah.So wherever you end up traveling in Israel over this special time of year, drink in the atmosphere, enjoy the lights, music, and festivities, and happy holidays to you!

After the holiday of Easter in Israel, which for Christians is the most important festival in their calendar, Christmas is an incredibly popular time to visit Jerusalem. With dozens of churches in the Old City, near to the Old City and in the neighbourhood of Ein Kerem, there’s no shortage of places to spend this special time of year. And let’s not forget that - located just six kilometres from this holy city - is Bethlehem. Without a doubt, it’s an unforgettable place to celebrate the Christmas holidays.Nativity scene. Photo by Ben White on UnsplashFor sure, Christmas in Jerusalem is a truly unique time of year. Whilst it can be chilly (don’t forget to bring some warm clothes, since it is high in the hills) it’s Old City's Christian and Armenian quarters are filled with beautiful decorations and have a truly festive atmosphere. Other landmarks in the newer part of the city, such as the YMCA, are also fine places to visit since they hold carol concerts and services.And for a little luxury, you can always pop across the way to the elegant King David hotel for a drink at their elegant bar, or a meal in their famed fine-dining restaurant. Nevertheless, most pilgrims tend to congregate inside the walls of the Old City, so let’s take a look at what goes on there.Old City CelebrationsOn Christmas Eve, many Christian pilgrims follow in the footsteps of Jesus, from the spot at which he was tried to the site of his crucifixion and burial (Calvary), located at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. If you are within the walls, you will see them walking the Via Dolorosa in the Old City of Jerusalem and whilst this is something often associated with Easter in Jerusalem (and Good Friday services), it is still very moving procession to watch.Midnight Mass is always held at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the most sacred site for millions of Christians around the world. Dedicated in 336 CE, its lavish interior and extraordinary ambience make it a unique place to attend services. Whether of an Orthodox denomination - Greek, Coptic, Armenian & Syriac - or Roman Catholic - there will be chapels open for prayer and you will be astonished at a large number of candles lit there, only adding to the atmosphere.Christmas tree. Photo by Joanna Kosinska on UnsplashMidnight Mass and the Annual Procession to BethlehemAfter Midnight Mass at the Holy Sepulchre, many pilgrims decide to participate in the Procession led by the Latin Patriarch, which winds its way through Jerusalem’s Old City. Latin Patriarchs are the Catholic episcopal see of Jerusalem and stretch back to the time of Arnulf of Chocques in 1099. After a period of time where they sat in Rome, Pius IX reinstated a Resident Patriarch in Jerusalem in 1847.The procession passes by the Mar Elias Monastery, located in the south of Jerusalem and overlooking Herodion and Bethlehem. Maintained today by the Greek Orthodox church, it is decorated with Byzantine-style paintings depicting biblical scenes and worth a visit in its own right. The procession finally arrives in Bethlehem at around 1 am, passing by Palestinian scouts marching bands parading through Manger Square, bagpipe players, choirs that are carol-singing and an enormous Christmas tree. Pilgrims finally arrive at the Church of Nativity, the spot where Jesus was born in a stable.A fine way to mark this special holiday could also be with a ‘Christmas Eve in Jerusalem and Bethlehem’ tour that culminates with a festive dinner and midnight mass outside the Church of Nativity. Not only will you be able to see landmarks in the city, but you will also eat with your group, close to Manger Square, before partaking in the Midnight Mass.Christmas tree in Bethlehem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockAlternative Services in JerusalemFor those who are less inclined to travel on foot to Bethlehem, there are a number of services at other churches in the city. At midnight, you could attend the Benedectine Dormition Abbey on Mount Zion and sing Christmas carols. Located at the highest point in Jerusalem, it commemorates the spot where Mary died (‘fell asleep’ as the name suggests). Look out for the dome above the statue of Mary - it shows pictures of six women from the Old Testament - Eve, Miriam, Yael, Judith, Ruth and Esther.For protestants, the Christ Church offers fantastic hospitality, beginning around 7 pm with coffee, biscuits and carol singing. After prayer and discussion, there is a Christmas service that begins at around 10.30 pm and lasts until after midnight. The Episcopal St. Anne’s Church, just 200 metres from the Jaffa Gate, also offers services and a popular concert, which tourists love. The Armenian Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Spasm (also known as the Church of Sorrows of Mary) also welcomes visitors.Dormition Abbey, Mount Zion, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Sofia EmeliyanovaNotre Dame Centre and the YMCAAnother highly recommended spot to celebrate Christmas in Jerusalem is the Notre Dame Centre. This beautiful French cathedral is located opposite the Lions' Gate and was built in the 1880s, to accommodate pilgrims wanting to travel from France to the Holy Land. Constructed on land purchased by the Count of Piellat, its architecture is a fusion of classical and modern - and after decades of construction, a beautiful nave was put in place. (Our tip: arrive early and visit their lovely rooftop restaurant, to enjoy a glass of wine and a cheese plate whilst watching the sunset over the Old City walls).The annual Christmas Eve concert and singalong at Jerusalem’s famous YMCA is always a lovely (and multicultural!) affair, including classical music as well as Christmas carols. Built in 1933 by the American architect Arthur Harmon (who actually designed the Empire State Building) it runs educational and cultural programmes throughout the year and its Youth Choir and tree-lighting ceremony are always a lovely thing to see. (Indeed, even at the height of the COVID pandemic, virtual services took place with a rendition of Ava Maria by the famed Israeli singer Achinoam Nini, as well as songs from the Nutcracker Ballet (accompanied by the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra).Christmas-inspired concerts can also be heard at the Lutheran Church of Augusta Victoria. Located in the east of the city, on the northern side of the Mount of Olives, it was built at the turn of the century for the city’s German Protestant community who lived, at that time, in Ottoman Palestine.Church of the Holy Sepulchre.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Garden Tomb and Ein KeremThe Garden Tomb (always particularly popular with Protestants) is not the first place you might think of visiting in Jerusalem, at this time of the year, but it’s not just a spot of worship for Easter. Located close to the Damascus Gate and believed by some to be the site where Jesus was crucified, buried and resurrected, every year they hold an evening of Christmas carols that are sung in English, Hebrew and Arabic! Finally, for those who care to venture out to Ein Kerem (which means ’Spring of the Vineyard’ in Hebrew) is a charming, lush hillside village, located in the southwest area of the city and famous for its ancient holy sites. These include the Church of the Visitation and the Church of John the Baptist.Christ Church Courtyard in the Old City of Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin

Easter is, by far and away, the most important festival in the Christian calendar, celebrating the events surrounding the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. Being able to spend Easter in Israel is an incredible experience for any visitor, let alone a pilgrim. For Christians, a trip to the Holy Land has no equal, and being able to make a pilgrimage here, particularly at the time of Easter, where Christ’s last days on earth took place, is always very moving and emotional.Easter eggs. Photo by Michal Balog on UnsplashThe actual dates of Easter are not ‘fixed’ (as is the case with Christmas) and the week itself, beginning with Palm Sunday and ending exactly a week later on Easter Sunday, are based on the lunisolar calendar (which is the solar year plus the Moon phase - actually similar to the Hebrew calendar).Whilst the ‘central events’ of the week take place in Jerusalem, both on the Mount of Olives and the Old City, there are many ceremonies that take place across the country, in Haifa, Nazareth, and Jaffa, which are very interesting to watch, as well as participate in. Let's take a closer look at some of the events taking place in these cities to commemorate the last days of Jesus’s life, followed by the jubilant celebrations marking his resurrection. Easter in JerusalemEaster in the Holy Land is a time like no other, and no more so than in Jerusalem, the capital of the Holy Land. In the days preceding Palm Sunday, Jerusalem begins filling up with tourists arriving with Christian tours of Israel, many of whom will not just be witnessing the events but taking part in them personally (having obtained tickets for the Palm Sunday Procession Tour). Easter Sunday in 2022 falls on 17th April, but special services will commence and continue the entire week, commencing on Palm Sunday, on 10th April culminating on Easter Monday on 18th April. If you do decide to attend these celebrations, be prepared for large crowds and a fair bit of pushing and shoving in the Old City, as spectators jostle for the best places to see the view of the processions. Of course, it’s worth it - it’s a moving and often overwhelming experience to be in the city - and walking the Via Dolorosa (the ‘Way of Sorrows’) - where Jesus took his final steps.From Palm Sunday (commemorating the moment Jesus rode into Jerusalem, riding on a donkey), Maundy Thursday (where you can see Priests and Ministers washing the feet of their parishioners, emulating Jesus washing the feet of his disciples) to Good Friday (a solemn experience, to say the least), Holy Saturday (with the extraordinary spectacle of the ceremony of the Holy Fire in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre) and the jubilation that accompanies Easter Sunday (with pilgrims crying out ‘Christ is Risen), this will be a week you will never forget. For more of an in-depth look at what happens in Jerusalem at this time, take a look at our article ‘Easter in Jerusalem.’Via Dolorosa, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockEaster in Tel Aviv-JaffaThere are several churches - both Protestant and Catholic - in Jaffa, (which sits next to Tel Aviv) and events celebrating Easter week are held throughout the week at Tel Aviv’s largest Catholic and Protestant Churches, based in Jaffa in the South of the city.St. Peter’s Church - there are services held in English, Polish, Spanish, and Hebrew on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, the Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday. This is a Franciscan church that sits at the top of the Jaffa hill (which has served as a strategic point for thousands of years). The church is large and beautiful, built at the beginning of the 20th century in baroque style. According to historians, Napoleon stayed here during his 1799 campaign. The church faces towards the Mediterranean Sea and on the walls are paintings depicting the fourteen Stations of the Cross that Jesus trod, en route to Calvary on the day of his crucifixion. St Anthony’s Church - this Franciscan Catholic church, located on Yefet Street, is built in a Gothic revival style and is noticeable because of its bell tower. Built in 1932, it is Jaffa's largest church and has an active community. Easter Services are held in English, Arabic, and Philippine throughout the week. St. Anthony's overlooks the harbor and many of its nuns, in the past, worked in the nearby French hospital. Today, the church is popular with migrant workers, especially those from Asia, and the priest is said to be very welcoming.The Immanuel Church in Jaffa is of the Protestant denomination. It was built in 1904 to serve the local German Evangelical community but after 1940 it remained empty, until 1955 when the building was transferred to the control of the Norweigan Church Ministry. Today, it is popular with different Protestant groups but also used by Messianic Jews. Over Easter, services and concerts are held continuously - for more specific information, check their Facebook page.St. Peter’s Church, Jaffa. Photo by Jeremy Zero on UnsplashEaster in NazarethNazareth holds a special place in the hearts of Christians since it was the city where Jesus spent much of his childhood. There is a number ofNazareth churches, all of which celebrate Easter in their own style.The Basilica of the Annunciation - According to Catholic tradition, this was the spot at which the Angel Gabriel appeared before Mary and announced that she would bear a child (i.e. Jesus). Built in 1958, over the remains of what were once Byzantine and Crusader houses of worship, today, it is the largest Catholic church in the Middle East. Inside, there are beautiful mosaics of Jesus and Mary, located in the portico, as well as a spiral staircase at the top of which is a beautiful Dome.Over Holy Week, a number of services are held including mass, reconciliation, and solemn prayer, as well as an Easter Vigil and sunrise service. When the church is at capacity, it is even possible to follow on live stream!Interior of the Church of the Annunciation, Nazareth.Photo credit: © ShutterstockSt. Gabriel’s Church - Also known as the Greek Orthodox Church of Annunciation, it is of Eastern Orthodox origin and is located in downtown Nazareth and is the largest Christian church in the East. Built in a modern style, Inside it boasts beautiful stained glass murals and lovely murals. Its old stone steps lead down to a beautiful spring. Holy Week is celebrated at St. Gabriel’s with prayers, homilies, services, and a Vigil.In Nazareth, visitors can walk through the city’s alleyways on Palm Sunday, accompanying the local residents and many other devout Christians in a procession. What is very nice is the special musical compositions that are played at this time. Easter week in this northern Israel city is a good example of how Easter is celebrated as a colorful grassroots religious festival.Easter in HaifaHaifa is actually home to a number of Christian communities and any visitor spending time there over Easter will be able to enjoy the traditional procession there, where locals and pilgrims walk through the streets, waving palm leaves and passing by the city’s churches. The annual procession begins at the St. Elias Greek Orthodox Church. This Melkite Cathedral was designed by architect Sammihom Atallah and built between 1938 and 1939. It then continues onto St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, administered by the Carmelites, and members of this congregation join the procession at this point. It then passes by the Latin Church (looked after by three Carmelite friars), moves onto the St. Luke Maronite Church, and concludes at the New Orthodox Church.Haifa aerial view.Photo by Shai Pal on UnsplashEaster in BethlehemBethlehem is a special place for Christians, being the birthplace of Jesus. Holy Week there, as everywhere else, begins on Palm Sunday and ends on Easter Sunday, during which quite a number of church services and religious processions are held. The three most special days before Easter Sunday are Maundy Thursday (when Jesus practiced humility by washing the feet of his disciples). Good Friday (the date Jesus walked to his death, through the Old City, to Calvary (Golgotha) where he was crucified, and also Holy Saturday (known locally as Sabt El Nour). Then, religious communities are given candles lit by a ‘Holy Light’ which has traveled all the way from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.During the Roman Catholic Holy Saturday, crowds gather in Bethlehem at the entrance to Star Street to welcome the large procession, which moves down to the Catholic Church of the Annunciation (also known as Al Bishara). Moreover, at the time of the Greek Orthodox Easter (which can be up to a week or so later), you will always see crowds standing at the city square in Beit Sahour and at Al Sahel Street in Beit Jala, ready to welcome the procession arriving from Jerusalem. As day turns to night, an Easter Vigil will begin and will continue for many hours. The following day, of course, is Easter Sunday and is marked at every Church in Bethlehem, including the Nativity Church and the Church of St. Catherine with sunrise services and enormous celebrations. To explore Bethlehem it is recommended to join one of numerous Bethlehem tours.Church of Saint Catherine, Bethlehem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

For Christians, there is no doubt that Easter is the most spiritual holiday in their religious calendar - yes, it even trumps Christmas in the sacred stakes! Why? Because this is the time of the year that the crucifixion, burial and resurrection of Jesus, the son of God, is commemorated and celebrated. They last for a period of time known as ‘Holy Week’ commemorating the events before and after the crucifixion.Easter celebration.Photo by freestocks on UnsplashIn late March or early April each year (depending on the calendar), thousands of pilgrims from all denominations descend upon Jerusalem for a period like no other. Taking place within the walls of the Old City, and at the Garden Tomb (which is open for visits throughout Holy Week (8:30 am to 12 noon and 2 pm to 5:30 pm) they recreate scenes from the last week of Jesus’s life, culminating in a solemn procession on Good Friday and a great celebration on Easter Sunday. Let’s take a look at how the week unfolds and some of the rituals the make Easter in Jerusalem so special and moving for Christians…Palm SundayPalm Sunday always falls one week before Easter. It is the first day of’ ‘Holy Week’ and is a festival that commemorates Jesus’ triumphant entrance into Jerusalem. According to all of the Gospels, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey and was greeted by his followers who all waved palm branches to celebrate. Historically, the palm branch may have been a symbol of victory and triumph and the donkey seen as an animal of peace (not war, as would have been a horse).Today, in the Old City, pilgrims recreate this scene as part of the Jerusalem Palm Sunday Procession Tour Beginning at the Mount of Olives, descending into the Kidron Valley and Gethsemane Garden, pilgrims walk solemnly through the Lions' gate and into the Old City. They proceed along the Via Dolorosa where Jesus walked his last steps before arriving at the cross. All along you hear cries of ‘Hosanna’ from the crowds. The procession is led by leaders of the Catholic Patriarchate (in brown robes), the Latin Patriarch (in purple robes) and the Greek Archbishop (in black robes). All along the way, the route is lined with Christian pilgrims (both local and those who have travelled from across the world) reciting blessings and singing songs. It is a very colourful and interesting ceremony, which culminates at St. Anne’s Church.Palm Sunday Procession. Photo by Brady Leavell on UnsplashMaundy ThursdayMaundy Thursday is also known as Holy Thursday and its name derives from the Latin ‘mandatum’ which means ‘command’. This ties up with Jesus’ commandment to his disciples “Love one another, as I have loved you.” This day, in essence, commemorates three major events:1. It is the day Jesus and his disciples sat down to eat the Last Supper. During this meal, Jesus took bread and wine and shared them with everyone at the table. Today, Christians around the world of all denominations continue to use bread and wine in their services of worship (such as the Eucharist and Mass). 2. Furthermore, on Holy Thursday, according to the Gospel of John, Jesus washed the feet of his apostles. This act has different meanings - to show that as an important person, Jesus practised humility and love to others. Some Christians also regard it as a way of seeking reconciliation with someone before taking communion. Today, there is a traditional Washing of the Feet ceremony carried out in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.3. Finally, this is the day in which Jesus was betrayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, after being betrayed by Judas. This was, for sure, a pivotal moment in Christianity.Today. In Jerusalem, pilgrims celebrate Maundy Thursday at the Room of the Last Supper (the Upper Room), located on Mount Zion. Some even hold an all-night vigil there, remembering Jesus’ hours in Gethsemane. In terms of the churches themselves, a Pontifical Mass (Supper of the Lord and Mass of the Chrism) is held at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre early in the morning. In the afternoon, in and around the Old City, there are pilgrimages from one church to another followed by services of the Washing of the Feet. Typically, the route of procession passes by the Church of All Nations, through the Lions' Gate, into the Old City and along the Via Dolorosa. All along the way, pilgrims sing songs in a number of languages and pray. Room of the Last Supper. Photo credit: © ShutterstockGood FridayGood Friday (also known as Holy Friday and Great Friday) is a very solemn - and incredibly important - day in the Christian calendar, marking the death of Jesus by crucifixion at Calvary (Golgotha). Many members of the various Christian denominations attend church services, abstain from eating meat and even fast. In the Roman Catholic, Lutheran and Anglican tradition, there is a service held between 12 and 3 pm, called ‘The Three Hour’s Agony’ (alluding to the hours Jesus was on the cross).In Jerusalem, each year, thousands of pilgrims descend on the Old City early in the morning, either to be part of the procession itself (tickets are numbered, limited and much sought after) or to pack the streets for a view. The procession itself is a recreation of the route Christ took, retracing his final steps on his way to the cross.The procession begins at the Mount of Olives, entering through the city walls and tracing its way along what is known as the Via Dolorosa (in Latin, ‘The Path of Sorrows’). Known as ‘the Way of the Cross’ it begins at 11.30 am at Station.1. The Stations of the Cross (14 in all, 8 en route and 6 in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre) refer to various images relating to Christ’s journey and his suffering as he walked this path.Mount of Olives. Photo credit: © ShutterstockIn the Old City, many pilgrims carry wooden crosses, sing hymns as they walk and often stop to recite prayers at each station. This is to symbolically offer ‘reparations’ for the insults and suffering that Jesus had to endure on his last journey which is estimated to have lasted 1.5 km (from Gethsemane to Calvary). The atmosphere is solemn and charged - many Christians, afterwards, describe it as one of the most moving moments of their lives. At the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the service is broken down into several parts: the Liturgy of the Word (carried out in silence). The Great Intercessions, the Adoration of the Cross, Communion (or Mass). Within this time, the liturgy will also include readings of the Gospel Passion narrative. After the ‘Three Hour’s Agony’ service - between 12 midday and 3 pm - vespers are read, to commemorate the time Christ’s body was taken down from the cross.Traditionally, on Good Friday, many Christians in Jerusalem will not eat meat or even fast entirely (to show their sorrow), will not perform any work, including washing clothes, breaking ground or playing with children. Since сhurches of the Old City of Jerusalem are open for the entire day, some pilgrims will spend much of the evening or night in contemplative prayer.A pilgrim in Via Dolorosa. Photo credit: © ShutterstockHoly SaturdayFor Orthodox communities, this day is known as Holy Saturday (‘Saturday of Light’) and each year in Jerusalem, it is commemorated with a ceremony named the Holy Fire Ceremony. This is held in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre - it is a popular ritual that is well attended by Christians from across the denominations.According to Orthodox tradition, at this time a blue light emanates from the tomb of Jesus and rises up from the marble slab (upon which his body was placed for burial). It is believed that the light forms a column of fire and, as a result, candles can be lit from it, both for the clergy and pilgrims in attendance. It is also thought that this ‘Holy Fire’ will not burn them and can be used to spontaneously light other candles and lamps in the church.In the darkness, the Patriarch kneels in front of the stone, and the crowd waits anxiously. When he emerges, with two candles lit, his audience breaks into applause and cheers with joy. The dome of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.Photo credit: © ShutterstockEaster SundayThe final day of the Holy Week culminates in enormous celebrations - commemorating the day that Christ rose from the dead. In Jerusalem, celebrations begin early - at 7 am - with the entry of the Latin Patriarch into the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. An hour later, the Mass of Resurrection is held and this includes a procession around the Rotunda. The service begins in darkness and one by one candles are lit. The Priest will state ‘ Christ is risen’ and the congregation will respond "He is risen indeed". All heads of the various Churches in Jerusalem will wear their brightest robes, in celebration, and bells will peal out. People pray individually and collectively. Protestants celebrate with an Easter sunrise service at the Garden Tomb.The week following Holy Week the Orthodox Christians (including Armenian, Coptic, Ethiopian, Syrian and Russian Orthodox) celebrate Easter with similar ceremonies and services. Without a doubt, if you are thinking of making a trip to Israel, a visit at this time of the year is highly encouraged. Springtime is beautiful in the Mediterranean and, combined with the rituals enacted in this special week, you will have the opportunity to witness something quite unique in Jerusalem - something that is sure to stay with you for the rest of your life.The best wat to visitholy Christian sites in Jerusalemis to join one ofChristian Day Tours.Inside the Church of Holy Sepulchre.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

For lovers of Jewish history, religion and culture, you could spend a lifetime exploring the endless sights that Israel offers - all over the country are dotted fascinating spots at which Jewish pilgrims come to worship. Whether tombs, synagogues or villages, they can really evoke the spirit of centuries ago, long before anyone even dreamed there might one day be a State of Israel. Below, we look at a some of the main Jewish holy sites in Israel:City of David Excavations, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockHoly Jewish Sites in JerusalemKing David’s Tomb -Considered to be one of the holiest sites in Israel, this tomb is located opposite the Old City’s Zion Gate and is considered to be the burial place of King David. Above it is the Room of the Last Supper, (sacred to Christians) and a roof complex with a minaret and observation point over Jerusalem.Temple Mount - For Jews, this incredibly holy site is the place at which Abraham is supposed to have been ready to sacrifice his son, Isaac, at God’s request. It is also the place where both ancient temples (built by Solomon and Herod) once stood.Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery- Over 500 years old, this is the oldest and most important cemetery in Jerusalem. It contains anywhere between 70,000 and 140,000 tombs and many notable rabbis are buried there. The tombs of the Prophets Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi are also on the Mount of Olivesand have been venerated by Jews since medieval times.Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Dan PorgesWestern Wall -Probably the most sacred site for Jews, the Western Wall (aka the Kotel) is the last remaining structure from King Herod’s Second Temple. Jews come from around the world here to pray and place notes between the cracks in the wall. Even for those with no religious faith, it is a moving and emotional experience to stand at this spot.Foundation Stone - This rock, at the center of theDome of the Rock, where Mount Moriah (the highest point in early Jerusalem’s proximity to the City of David) once stood, is considered to be the place that the world began. Jews all around the globe pray in its direction.Cave of the Ramban - Nestled in the Upper Kidron Valley, this is believed to be the tomb of the notable scholar from medieval times, Nachmanides (aka The Ramban).Tomb of Simeon the Just - A Jewish High Priest at the time of the Second Temple, this is considered to be his grave and today the tomb is a pilgrimage site for Jewish worshippers, particularly those who bring their 3-year old sons here to give them their first haircut (a ritual known as ‘upsherin’).King David’s Tomb, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockHoly Jewish Sites in Central IsraelTomb of Rabban Gamaliel of Yavne - Rabbi Gamaliel was the first person to lead the Sanhedrin (an assembly of Rabbis, formed after the destruction of the Second Temple). According to Jewish tradition, his greatest achievement was putting an end to the disputes between the philosophical schools of Hillel and Shamai. (Even so, according to tradition, a voice from heaven was heard in, stating that although both views had merit, Hillel’s carried more authority).Tomb of Benjamin, Kfar Saba -Benjamin was the youngest (and much loved) son of the biblical patriarch Jacob and his wife Rachel. His tomb, located in Kfar Saba, called Kever Binyamin in Hebrew, is covered by a small building with a domed roof. Over the tomb entrance is an image of a goblet, harking back to the biblical story of how his brother Joseph placed a goblet in Benjamin’s luggage, in order to bring charges of spying against him.Western Wall, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockHoly Jewish Sites in Northern IsraelHatzor HaGlilit -Close to Safed, this village is home to the tomb of Honi the Circle-Maker, and next to it are the two graves of his grandsons. According to tradition, Honi had the power, through prayer, to make rainfall, and today many Hassidic pilgrims worship here.Mount Meron - Located in the Upper Galilee, Mount Meron (and the village of the same name) is where the burial tomb of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai can be found. Each year, on the Jewish holiday of Lag B’Omer, tens of thousands of ultra-orthodox Jews visit the mount as part of a pilgrimage. Kfar Hananya - This village is named after one by the same name mentioned in the Mishnah (a Jewish holy book) and supposedly home to the burial site of Rabbi Hananya ben Akshaya, who lived hundreds of years ago. Mount Betarim - According to Jewish tradition, this is one of the peaks of Mount Dov and the site at which Abraham entered into a covenantal relationship with God.Mount Meron, Upper Galilee, Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockPeki'in - In this village, legend has it that two stones in its synagogue were taken from the walls of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem. Pilgrims also believe that the synagogue was built on the site where Rabbi Joshua ben Hananya taught before the Bar Kokhba War.Safed -A historic center for Kabbalah (an esoteric Jewish train of philosophy) Safed became a holy city after the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492 who flocked here. Moreover, according to Jewish philosophy, the town was founded by one of Noah’s sons, after the biblical flood. Many Jewish leaders are buried in its cemetery.Tomb of Nachman Chatufa at Kfar Baram - Nachman Chatufa was the son of Rabbi Pinchas and, according to legend, began speaking as a newborn about the Torah. At the age of 12, the boy began revealing prophecies of the future that were once recorded in the book Nevuat Ha Yeled, in Aramaic (the vernacular at that time). He died shortly afterward and was buried in Baram, a village now close to the border with Lebanon.Tomb of Prophet Ovadiah -Baram is also home to the grave of the prophet Ovadya (Obadiah). In the Bible, it is said that he hid 100 prophets in caves, from the wicked King of the day. Obadiah is also famous for acting as the intermediary in an important meeting between King Ahab and Eliyahu.The city of Safed. View from above.Photo credit: © ShutterstockTiberias - Tiberias has great significance in Judaism, being one of the four holy cities (along with Jerusalem, Safed, and Hebron). Located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, it is known as the place where the Jerusalem Talmud was composed. It was founded around 20 CE by the son of Herod the Great and according to Jewish tradition was built on the site of the ancient Israelite village named Rakat. Tiberias was also home to Masoretes (Jewish scribes, who lived in the area between 5th and 10th CE). Today, Tiberias retains its status as a holy city not just because of the above but also because of the large number of rabbis who established the city as a center for Jewish learning in the 18th and 19th centuries.Tomb of Maimonides- This is the burial spot of the renowned scholar and philosopher Rabbi Moses Maimonides, known by the acronym Rambam. He lived in Spain and Egypt and died 800 years ago, at which time his body was brought to Tiberias. He was a world-famous sage and scholar who organized, codified, and analyzed many ancient Jewish religious and ritual laws. Today, it is a place where thousands come to pray and show respect to a man who is considered to be the greatest rabbi, philosopher, and doctor of his time.Tomb of the Matriarchs -The Tomb of the Matriarchs in Tiberias is also a place where many come to pray, particularly religious women who visit in order to receive blessings for their fertility and to ask for safety for their husband if he is away. The matriarchs are considered to be Yocheved (Moses’s mother), Zipporah (Mose’s wife), Elisheva (Nachson’s wife), Bilhah (Rachel’s maid), and Avigal (the wife of David).At the Ancient Synagogues in the Old City of Safed, Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockSynagogues in IsraelBeit Alpha Synagogue - Located in the Gilboa region, this 6th-century settlement (of which the Beth Alpha synagogue was a part) survived into Islamic times. Today it is part of a national park. Discovered in 1928, by kibbutz members, excavations show that it once stood on two floors, containing a courtyard, vestibule, and prayer hall. The Torah Ark (from which Jews prayed) was facing southwest, towards Jerusalem. The floor mosaics are intricate and beautiful, depicting the Binding of Isaac (from Genesis) a Zodiac Wheel, and a synagogue scene. Above the synagogue door are inscriptions both in Aramaic and Greek. Flanking the inscriptions are a lion and a buffalo, representing the synagogue’s ‘guardians. Korazim Synagogue- Korazim was a town in Galilee that continued to prosper after the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE. It is home to a particularly beautiful synagogue, constructed of black basalt and intricately carved columns. The synagogue also boasts a number of Jewish symbols, inscriptions both in Hebrew and Aramaic, and some beautiful carvings. An interesting find made there was a stone seat, inscribed in Aramaic, and today referred to as the ‘Chair of Moses.’ The building itself is believed to have been built between the late 3rd and early 4th century, but then destroyed and rebuilt in the 5th century.Kfar Baram Synagogue - Meaning ‘Son of the People’ in Hebrew and dating back to the 3rd century, this is one of Israel’s oldest synagogues. Located in the north of the country, close to the Lebanon border, it was built out of basalt stone. One unusual inside feature is a portico containing six columns and inside is a sculpture depicting two stone lions (similar to the lions at Chorazin). The front entrance has three doorways, facing Jerusalem. The Ashkenazi HaAri Synagogue, in the Jewish quarter, in Safed (Tzfat), Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockAnim Synagogue - Half an hour’s drive from Arad in the Negev desert, this ancient Jewish village once housed a synagogue. Anim was used as a house of prayer between the 4th and 7th centuries. It was discovered during an excavation in 1987 - remains include a prayer hall (facing Jerusalem) a portico and a courtyard. Underneath the stone flooring, evidence of a mosaic was found (it is possible to see small parts of an inscription that remain).Arbel Synagogue- Located on Mount Arbel, near the Sea of Galilee, this synagogue stands in the middle of the remains of an ancient village. Archaeologists agree that it was built in the 4th century and used for several hundred years afterward. Its door, which still stands, is carved out of limestone. There are carvings of medallions and decorative floral motifs and inside sat carved benches and Corinthian columns. It is possible that the synagogue was destroyed in the catastrophic earthquake of 749 CE in Galilee.Hammat Tiberias Synagogue-The extraordinary stone floor of this 4th century Galilee building includes geometric patterns, lions, classic Jewish symbols (including a Menorah lamp, Shofar, and a wonderful Zodiac motif, in the middle of which is Helios, the Sun God).Hurvat Amudim Synagogue -One of the largest synagogues in Galilee, this house was built at the beginning of the 4th century and contains two rows of columns and an inscription in Aramaic.Katzrin Synagogue, Northern Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockKafr 'InanSynagogue -East of Acre, in Israel’s north, this Byzantine-period synagogue was partially carved out of the rock, probably during the 5th century CE.KatzrinSynagogue -This ancient synagogue (and the village) are now an open-air museum. The building was constructed in the 6th century but probably destroyed in the terrible earthquake of 748 CE. Inside were stone benches and walls painted with red geometric patterns.MaonSynagogue -Found in the Negev desert, this 6th-century structure is known for its astonishing mosaic floor. Peacocks, lions, and palm trees sit close to traditional Jewish symbols and an inscription in Aramaic. Maoz HaimSynagogue -Situated close to Beit Shean this basilica building dates back to the Byzantine era and contains columns, an apse, and a mosaic floor, mainly made out of geometric patterns. MigdalSynagogue -Located on the shores of the Galilee, Migdal was in active use at the time of the Second Temple, Excavations found a stone on which was carved a Menorah (candelabra) and is estimated to be one of the oldest synagogues in Israel. It was discovered accidentally during a dig in 2009.To visit the highlights of Jewish Israel book a Jewish tour package or a private tour.Remains of a synagogue in the Talmudic village of Katzrin, Israel. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

If you’re looking for a place to bring the kids on vacation, you can’t choose better than Israel. It’s a Mediterranean country, so there’s a culture of children being welcome almost everywhere and it’s also a Jewish country, where family life and children are at the heart of society. Combine that with the fantastic climate, the varied landscapes and the endless attractions that this country offers families, and you’re looking at a vacation you and the kids will never forget.Young tourists at Nimrod Fortress, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinChill Out or Culture Vulture? Heritage or Hiking?So how do you go about organizing this kind of trip? Well, in our opinion, a good way to begin is to decide on what you want the focus of your trip to be. Are you hoping for pure relaxation - beaches, water parks, ‘fun in the sun?’ Do you want something more educational, based around historical and religious sites? Are you looking to improve the kids’ interest in their heritage, and hoping to make this an ‘Introduction to Jewish Culture?” vacation, especially if you visit over a religious holiday? Or are you a family that loves being outdoors, and ready for an adventure trekking in the Negev, kayaking on the Jordan River, or hiking in the Galilee?The good news is that Israel won’t disappoint in any of these respects - all you need to do is decide how long you’re coming for and what kind of things you want to do. In the meantime, here’s a bit of background on the ‘must do-must see’ list, whatever kind of family holiday you’re planning.Children walking by the sea in Acre, Israel. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinThe ‘Kick Back and Relax’ VacationThere’s nothing better than doing nothing for a while and Israel’s beaches are phenomenal - crystal clear water, white sand, and warm weather for many months of the year. Whichever coastal resort you choose, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation. In Eilat, why not try the all-inclusive Isrotel Lagoona or the Leonardo Club Hotel, both of which have great daytime kids activities. If you want to splash the cash in Tel Aviv, then go for the classy Dan Panorama or the luxurious Hilton hotel. Just up the coast in Herzliya, there’s the Okeanos - these self-catering suites are ideal for those looking for a bit of flexibility, and they’re spacious and clean. And in Netanya, you can’t go wrong at the David Tower Hotel or the West Lagoon Resort, both boasting plenty of amenities and very child-friendly.Of course, even sunbathing can get boring after a while, so if you’re looking for activities to get you off your sun lounger, and your children are aged five or over, then why not consider an organized day trip? Let someone else take care of the practicalities while you enjoy yourself. Every kid would love the Masada and the Dead Sea day tour.Caesarea, Acre, and Rosh Hanikra day tour is a great way to give the kids a lesson on Roman and Crusader history. Just make sure you take plenty of water, sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and comfortable footwear and you’ll be set.Child on a Tel Aviv beach.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinSplish Splash - A Day at a Water ParkFor other kinds of day excursions, you could also take a family trip to a water park. Israel has quite a few of them and they’re the ideal way for your kids to let off steam and keep cool (especially if you; ’re visiting in the summer). Try Aqua Kef (‘Water Fun’ in Hebrew) - it has four separate areas - kids, family, Olympic, and extreme! Set on the Sea of Galilee, their brightly colored floats and water slides make for a great day out. Just 25 minutes drive from Tel Aviv, there’s also Yamit in Holon. With 20 different slides, including ‘Freefall’, ‘Black Hole’ and ‘’Banana Jump’ there’s both a younger kids section and an ‘Extreme Park’ for teenagers.Finally, if you feel like combining the beach with a little city life, why not spend some time in Haifa? This beautiful Mediterranean city has all kinds of kid-friendly attractions, and its views of the sea never disappoint. Best Time To Go? Between May and October, when the weather is at its warmest.Kids enjoying the sea, Tel Aviv.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinThe ‘Culture Vultures’ TripIsrael is packed with cultural sites that will thrill the whole family. Whether it’s archaeological, historical or religious places you want, the choice is staggeringly wide and you can be sure that your kids will finish their vacation a whole lot more knowledgeable, whilst having had plenty of fun at the same time! Israel is home to all kinds of astonishing archaeological sites. In Jerusalem, there’s both the City of David (thousand of years old, and lying beneath the modern-day city) and Hezekiah’s Tunnel - at 530m long, they were an innovative way to transport water. You can combine the two with an organized Jerusalem Underground Tour, as well. Or head off to the Masada Fortress (with its astonishing views) or Caesarea, with its beautiful Herodian remains (including a fantastic amphitheatre).Caesarea National Park. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinClimb a Castle or Take Out a BoatFor history lovers, the whole family will love Nimrod’s Fortress up in the Golan Heights. Atop a mountain, this is the oldest Crusader-style castle in the country and the views are breathtaking! You can then travel onto Acre, a charming city Acre, with an intriguing past and Templar’s Tunnel. In Jaffa, you can walk for hours, stumbling upon tiny churches and watching fishermen sitting patiently, waiting for a catch. And just outside of the White City, there’s Ramle and the Pool of Arches - take the kids on a short’ cruise’ where they can see a real-life underground reservoir.To get the kids interested in different religious faiths, you can head to the Sea of Galilee, and take a boat out on the water, just as Jesus did with his disciples. Let them see pilgrims being baptized in the Jordan River, at Yardenit, then drive onto Nazareth, to see the Church of the Annunciation and its unusual mosaics. Israel’s also jam-packed with museums - the Children’s Museum in Holon and Madatech (Israel’s National Museum of Science) are always good choices. For youngsters interested in art or design, try the Museum of Modern Art or the Design Museum in Holon. And if you’re in Jerusalem, the whole family should consider walking the Ramparts and seeing this ancient city the way warriors once did.Best Time To Go? You can see all of these sites year-round, though it will be more chilly in the winter and much hotter in the summer!The Pool of Arches, Ramle. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinThe ‘Jewish Tradition’ holidayWant to give your kids a better idea of their Jewish roots? Well, book your Israel holiday now. Whilst giving your child a bar or bat mitzvah at Jerusalem’s Western Wall is an increasingly popular trend, you can also just travel around, soaking up history. There are so many sites your children will love - the Tower of David, the Time Elevator, the Western Wall Tunnels will all thrill the kids. Up in the north, don’t miss Safed with its tiny synagogues, as well as Tiberias, the capital of Galilee, which has a long and historic past. There are also all kinds of activities in Israel that will connect the kids to their Jewish roots. What about having the whole family make challah, in anticipation of Friday night Shabbat dinner? Or paint a hamsa (a traditional ‘hand sign’ that wards off the evil eye) at a Jerusalem Ceramics Center. If the kids are really into adventure, they can also learn how to forge aMaccabee's sword at the Iskander Studio.The Western Wall.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinA Taste of Joy and Freedom - Chanukah Lights and Purim CarnivalsAnd if you bring your kids to Israel over one of the Jewish holidays, they can celebrate it with the locals. Over Chanukah, there are all kinds of celebrations for this festival of lights and many municipalities also offer free activities for youngsters. Your kids will love the sufganiyot too (the Hebrew word for doughnuts, which are traditionally eaten at this time of the year) which range from the traditional (jam in the middle) to the sublime (chocolate frosting and creme patisserie).Or arrive around Purim and the whole family can experience an Adloyada - with parades, dancing, and general merrymaking. Two of the best (in our opinion) are held each year in Holon and the Midreshet Ben Gurion, in the Negev desert. Take a look at a video here, to see just how fun it really is. Best Time To Go? Early Spring (February/March) for Purim or December for Chanukah.Children with Purim makeup.Photo credit: © Shutterstock‘On Your Marks, Get Set, Go!’ - the Outdoorsy tripIf you’re the kind of family that loves outdoorsy holidays, with plenty of opportunities for walking, hiking, climbing, and camping, then you’re in the right country. For young kids, Jerusalem’s Biblical Zoo is Israel’s biggest tourist attraction - and not just for the free-roaming animals and petting zoo, but also the train that runs through it. In Tel Aviv, why not let the kids have an African safari experience, where you drive through the park, gazing at animals from the Savannah?Israel’s nature reserves are also incredibly beautiful. Ein Gedi is a veritable oasis in the desert, which can be explored in the course of the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve Private Tour. Older kids who love the dark will get a real thrill out of exploring the Mei Kedem caves (don’t forget to bring footwear suitable for walking in water, as well as a torch). Further north is the Avshalom Cave near Beit Shemesh - with its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, the kids will be in awe of the “Elephant Ears’ and ‘Macaroni Fields!’Stalactite Cave, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinUnder the Stars and Under the Sea - Mitzpe’s Crater and Eilat’s Coral ReefDown south, there are few children that won’t enjoy camping out and gazing at stars in Mitzpe Ramon.The crater is a wonderful place to hike (though go early in the morning, before it gets hot) and see ibex roaming freely on the cliffs. Teenagers can even abseil down the crater side (under the watchful eyes of experienced guides) whilst younger kids will enjoy Mitzpe’s Alpaca Farm no end. Then head south and take a hike through Timna National Park, and gaze at ‘the Mushroom’ before spending some time at the Eilat Coral Beach Nature Reserve - where you can see a coral reef without even getting wet, learn about snap a selfie with a stingrayand engage in some family-friendly snorkeling! Eilat is also home to the popular Dolphin Reef, where you can pet these gorgeous creatures and see them swimming around freely.Up north again, there are few kids that won’t enjoy kayaking down the Jordan River, whilst nature-loving families should head to the Hula Lake, where annual migrations are a stunning sight. You can make your base on the Sea of Galilee, where you can set up camp and fall asleep under the stars. Eilat. Photo credit:© ShutterstockNearby, there’s the Eshkol forest where you can have a family picnic, or what about taking a boat out on the lake itself? Oh, and don’t forget the wonderful hot springs at Hamat Gader - these thermal baths were built by the Romans over 2,000 years ago and are great fun for kids and adults alike. Of course, if your kids are wearing you out with all their energy, you can always consider taking an organized day trip. Of course, private tours are a great way to plan an itinerary that suits your family personally but our range of day tours is also great if your children have sufficient stamina to walk around for a few hours. Best Time To Go? When it’s dry but not too hot i.e. April-May and September-October (perhaps avoiding the High Holidays, which is high season, meaning some attractions may be closed).Children in Old Jaffa, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin

For many Christians, a trip to Israel is the visit of a lifetime - an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, exploring his birthplace, early and formative years, and retrace his last walk to Calvary in Jerusalem. Without a doubt, this is a very emotional and rewarding experience. Israel is home to countless churches, some ‘must-see’ sites and others less well-known. Dotted all across the country, they contain mosaics and artifacts often dating back thousands of years, which makes them fascinating not just from a religious but also a historical viewpoint. Let’s take a look at some of the many wonderful churches you’re likely to come across on various Christian day tours in IsraelChurch of All Nations, Mount of Olives, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockJERUSALEM CHURCHES1. Jerusalem Old City and Mount ZionChurch of the Holy Sepulchre - Built on the spot where Christ was crucified, buried, and resurrected, this extraordinary and enormous church is filled with shrines, works of art, and small altars and chapels. Consecrated in 335 CE, it is the most visited and famous church in Jerusalem, if not Israel and its enormous interior can hold up to eight thousand people.Church of St. Anne - Close to the Lion’s Gate, this church was built during Crusaders' times and sits on the ruins of a Byzantine church. The basilica has three aisles and boasts cross-vaulted ceilings and pillars and a simple interior.Cathedral of Saint James - This ornately designed building in the Armenian Quarter is one of the few Crusader-era churches to remain intact.Dormition Abbey - easily recognizable, due to its round (not rectangular) shape, this monastic church was built by German Emperor Wilhelm II and has a beautiful mosaic floor.Church of Saint Alexander Nevsky - this Russian Orthodox Church is built over the remains of what historians believe was the ‘Judgment Gate’ where Jesus passed on his way to Golgotha.For a complete list of Jerusalem’s Old City churches, take a look atthis article. You can also join one of multiple Jerusalem tours to explore the Jerusalem central churches. Dormition Abbey.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin2. Jerusalem - Mount of OlivesChurch of All Nations - this impressive church’s facade features Corinthian columns under a mosaic portraying Jesus and is thought to be the place he prayed before his arrest by the Romans.Pater Noster - the highlight of this Carmelite Monastery is the decorated ceramic tiles, spelling out the Lord’s Prayer in a wide variety of scripts and languages.Dominus Flevit - the Italian architect Barluzzi designed this beautiful church in the shape of a teardrop, and its famous window frames a view of the Old City behind it. Church of Mary Magdalene - this distinctive Russian Orthodox Church was constructed in 1886 and, in traditional style, has seven gilded onion domes. It has a visually stunning interior with many icons and the gardens are beautifully kept.Russian Orthodox Convent and Church of the Ascension - this is supposedly the site where Jesus ascended to heaven, 40 days after his resurrection, and boasts an impressive bell tower.To see the full list of churches on the Mount of Olives, click here. Try this 2-day Christian Jerusalem tour to see most of the above-mentioned churches as well as the Garden of Gethsemane andThe Pools of Bethesda.Pater Noster Church, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Shutterstock3. Jerusalem’s Ein Kerem ChurchesChurch of the Visitation - this Franciscan church is named after Mary’s visit to the summer house of the parents of John the Baptist and the blue mosaic on the exterior illustrates this.Convent of the Sisters of Zion - this beautiful Catholic nunnery was founded by converted JewMarie-Alphonse Ratisbonne and houses a guesthouse and library. Underneath is a large water pool that dates back to Second Temple times, as well as a number of Roman flagstones.Gorny or "Moscobia" Convent - this Russian monastery consists of several small churches and was founded as an attempt to ‘mark territory’. Today it is inhabited by 48 nuns.Church of Nativity of John the Baptist - designed by Italian architect Barluzzi, this Catholic church dates back to Crusader times and is easily identifiable because of its tall tower and round spire. It also boasts a grotto which is supposed to have been the birthplace of John.St John In The Wilderness - this Franciscan monastery was built on Byzantine ruins and sits next to a spring in a wooded area. It commemorates the early years of John the Baptist. To see Ein Kerem churches join one of Jerusalem Private tours.Convent of the Sisters of Zion, Ein Kerem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockCHURCHES IN NORTHERN ISRAEL1. Nazareth ChurchesThe Church of the Annunciation - built on the spot where the Virgin Mary was visited by the Angel Gabriel, this church’s breathtaking basilica is 50 meters high and its colorful mosaics depict the Holy Family.Church of Saint Joseph - according to legend, this church was built over the carpentry workshop of Jesus’ father, Joseph. Christ Church, Nazareth - built in 1871 and shaped like a cross, this Anglican church was the second of its kind in the Holy Land.Coptic Church of the Annunciation - this Greek Orthodox church was built in 1750 and stands over the ruins of a 12th century Crusader church, destroyed by the Mamluks.Greek Catholic Church of Nazareth - this Byzantine Catholic church was built in the early 20th century by Archbishop Hakim Maksymosa.Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation - also known as the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Gabriel, this medieval church’s underground chapel contains a spring.Synagogue Church - tradition has it that this small church is the same building that used to be the village synagogue in the time of Jesus. Above the doorway is a sign stating ‘the synagogue.”For more about churches in Nazareth, click here. To visit the main Nazareth churches join a day Nazareth Tour.Church of Saint Joseph, Nazareth. Photo credit: © Shutterstock2. The Galilee ChurchesMultiplication Church, Tabgha - this Roman Catholic church is overseen by the Benedictine Order and is the spot at which Jesus performed his miracle with loaves and fishes.Church of the Primacy of Saint Peter, Tabgha - this Franciscan church is the spot at which Jesus appeared to his disciples after his resurrection and commissioned Peter as leader of his church.Wedding Church, Cana - this Franciscan church is the place at which Jesus performed his miracle of turning water into wine, at a poor couple’s wedding.Church of the Transfiguration - located at Mount Tabor and built by Franciscans in 1924, this large church is the spot at which Jesus was transfigured in the presence of Peter, John, and James.Mount Beatitudes Church - situated on Mount Eremos, this Roman Catholic Franciscan chapel has a marble veneer and gold mosaic in its dome. Church of St. Andrew, Old City of Acre - this Crusader-era church contains a gothic marble portal, brought to Acre as a war trophy. Built in 1765, it is ornately decorated and houses many icons.Naim Church - this Franciscan church is located near Mount Taborin a Galilee village where Jesus is thought to have brought back to life a widow’s son. The Pilgrimage Church of St. Peter - this modern catholic church is located in Capernaum, where both Jesus and his first disciple, Peter, lived. For more information about churches in Galilee, click here. Churches of Acre built by Crusaders are described in this article. If you are interested in visiting some of the churches join a Christian Galilee tour.Multiplication Church, Tabgha. Photo credit: © Shutterstock3. Haifa ChurchesSt. Elijah Cathedral - serving the Greek Catholics of Haifa, this cathedral was designed by architect Sammihorn Atallah. Its front is covered with a cross and a few meters away is a small bell tower.St. Louis the King Cathedral - founded in 1889, this church serves as the headquarters of the Maronite Catholics in Israel and was dedicated to King Louis IX.Muhraka Monastery - this Monastery sits on Mount Carmel, which is said to have been the traditional home of Elijah the Prophet. It boasts incredible views of the surrounding area.Sacred Heart Chapel, Haifa - this Catholic church is located on Mount Carmel and is known for its unique design (it was once a windmill) with spectacular views over the Mediterranean.St. Joseph's Church, Haifa - Designed by Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi, this Carmelite church was inaugurated in 1961 and is the last building Barluzzi designed in the Holy Land.Stella Maris Monastery - Latin for ‘Star of the Sea’ this Carmelite church dates back to 1631 and its nearby monastery once served as a hospital for the soldiers of Napoleon.To tour Haifa churches don't hesitate to join Haifa and the Carmel Private Tour.Seaview, Haifa.Photo credit: © ShutterstockCHURCHES IN CENTRAL ISRAEL1. Churches in Tel AvivSt. Anthony's Church- completed in 1932, this Catholic church is built in Gothic Revival style and was named in honor of St. Anthony of Padua, a priest of the Franciscan Order.Immanuel Church - this Lutheran church was established in 1904 for the German Evangelicals of the area and sits in the German-American colony area of Tel Aviv. Today Protestants and a community of Messianic Jews worship here.Saint Nicholas Monastery - this Armenian monastery sits in the Old City of Jaffa, close to the harbor, and was founded before 1000 CE in the name of St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors.St. Peter's Church - built in 1654 and dedicated to Saint Peter, over a medieval citadel, the building was twice destroyed and rebuilt. It has a tall, brick façade and towering bell tower and is a distinctive building in Jaffa.If you would like to visit Tel Aviv churches, join aTel Aviv and Old Jaffa Private Tour.St. Peter's Church, Jaffa.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin2. Churches Outside JerusalemThe Latrun Trappist Monastery - established in 1890, by Trappist monks, many of whom believe that language is sacred and have therefore taken vows of silence, this monastery also boasts a vineyard. Today it produces a number of excellent wines and liquors that are sold in the Abbey shop. Beit Jamal Monastery - Meaning ‘ the House of the Camel’ is a Catholic monastery run by Salesian priests. Close by is a small church built in 1930 on the ruins of a 5th-century Byzantine church discovered on the site.Benedictine monastery in Abu Ghosh - Run by the Olivetan Benedictine Order, this church is built on the foundations of a Crusader Church of the Resurrection, established in the 12th century on top of Roman ruins. There is a fountain that flows out from a crypt below and twice a year the church - along with the nearby Notre-Dame de l’Arche church - hosts a prominent classical and choral music festival.The Latrun Trappist Monastery. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinCHURCHES IN THE WEST BANKChurch of the Nativity, Bethlehem - originally commissioned by Emperor Constantine the Great, this basilica contains a grotto which is of great significance to Christians since they believe it to be the birthplace of Jesus. It is the oldest continuously-used grotto used for worship in Christianity. The basilica itself is the oldest of its kind in the Holy Land.Church of St. Catherine, Bethlehem - affiliated with the Catholic Church and Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, it also functions as a Franciscan monastery. There is a complex of caves under the building and it is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List, under the title of “Birthplace of Jesus, Church of the Nativity''.Chapel of Shepherd's Field, Bethlehem - this Roman Catholic church marks the place where, according to tradition, angels first announced the birth of Christ. Built by the Franciscans in 1953, it was designed by architect Antonio Barluzzi and has five apses, which symbolize the outline of a nomadic tent.Chapel of the Milk Grotto, Bethlehem - carved out of soft white rock, this is a sacred site both for Christian and Muslim pilgrims and is popular with new mothers and women who are trying to become pregnant. According to tradition, Mary and Joseph stopped here and as Mary nursed baby Jesus, a drop of her milk fell upon the stone and it turned white. Mar Saba Monastery - this Greek Orthodox monastery was founded in 483 by Sabbas the Sanctified and is considered to be one of the world’s oldest inhabited monasteries (today it houses around 20 monks). One of its famous ancient traditions is its refusal to allow entrance to women.Monastery of Saints John and George of Choziba - located in Wadi Qelt, this extraordinary monastery literally hangs off a cliff. It dates back to around 500 CE and can only be reached by a pedestrian bridge. Traditionally, the area is associated with the Prophet Elijah and holds the relics of three Eastern Orthodox saints, which means it is very popular with pilgrims.Monastery of the Temptation, Jericho - located on a cliff, this is the place where Jesus spent 40 days and nights successfully resisting the temptations that Satan placed before him. To visit churches in the West Bank join one of theWest Bank tours.Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

It’s indisputable - for a tiny country, Israel invariably punches above its weight as a holiday destination. Whether it’s religious and historical landmarks, glorious Tel Aviv beaches, astounding nature, skiing in the north and diving in the south, exploring boutique vineyards and Crusader castles or simply wandering the local streets, there’s enough in this country to keep you busy for several holidays. But what if you’re a first-time visitor, with a fixed amount of time to spend in this incredible country? What are the ‘must-see’ places in Israel for a newcomer? Well, there are many but some, of course, are stand-out destinations. And the good news is that Israel is pretty compact - you could drive the length of the country, from the Golan Heights, down to Eilat on the Red Sea, in about 8 hours. From east to west, it sometimes even takes less than an hour.The Church of the Beatitudes.Photo credit: © ShutterstockOne Holiday - Endless AttractionsThis means that whether you’re renting a car, travelling as part of a tour package or moving around independently, you’re going to be able to cover a fair bit of ground in one to two weeks. So with nothing more than a little planning, the fact is that you’re going to be able to combine all kinds of top-rated attractions in 7-14 days.Below is our list - we’re biased of course, but we’re certain you won’t come away disappointed after a trip to any of these incredible places. And whether you see them all or end up missing out on one or two, don’t worry - because you can see them again on your next trip - as well as few ones we haven’t mentioned! Let’s take a look:1. Jerusalem’s Old CityJerusalem is one of the most extraordinary cities in the world and the primary reason many tourists come to Israel. Home to three major world faiths and spectacularly beautiful, you could spend an entire vacation in Jerusalem, with much of it just within the Old City. Inside its walls (erected by Ottoman Emperor Suleiman, hundreds of years ago), the area is divided into four quarters - Christian, Muslim, Jewish and Armenian - which you can spend hours wandering through (and getting lost in!)Within the Old City are treasures such as the Western Wall (sacred to Jews, as the last remaining vestige of the Second Temple), the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (a beloved Christian pilgrim site, being where Christ was both crucified and resurrected), the Via Dolorosa, along which Christ walked, stopping at different ‘Stations of the Cross’ and the Temple Mount (Islam’s third most holy site, and known as the spot at which Mohammed flew over on his way to Mecca). There are also underground Western Wall tunnels, water cisterns, Ramparts, the Tower of David, the Byzantine Cardo, tiny churches and the Jerusalem shuk(bazaar) atmosphere itself which visitors often find overwhelming (in a positive sense!) because of its smells, sights and sounds. To get the most out of your time, we’d recommend taking at least one of variousJerusalem toursbecause the city guides have a wealth of knowledge and expertise at their fingertips and can really make Jerusalem come alive for you.One of the Stations of the Cross, Via Dolorosa, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Shutterstock2. Bahai Gardens in HaifaThe Baha’i Gardens, at the heart of the beautiful Mediterranean city of Haifa, are a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site and the highlight of any visit. Sloping down Mount Carmel, all the way to the foot of the sea, these impeccably manicured 19 terraces have, at their centre, a small white shrine, on top of which is the gold-coloured dome. This is the final resting place - and shrine - of the founder, ‘the Bab.’ Today, there are estimated to be around 7 million of his followers across the world.hebronThe terraced gardens are filled with exotic flowers, fountains and small sculptures and contain nine concentric circles. They are surrounded on either side by woodlands, to ensure the area remains peaceful and calm - a true spiritual site for followers of the Baha'i faith but loved by tourists and locals alike. (Fun fact: number 9 is sacred in this faith and this is reflected in the garden’s design - there are 9, 19, 99 of each element of the garden, as well as 999 steps along the path!). Either take the daily tour at midday (in English) or splash out on a private tour of Haifa and the Carmel - which also includes a visit to a Druze village of Daliat-el-Carmel. Haifa truly is the jewel in Israel’s north.Bahai Gardens, Haifa. Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin3. The Dead SeaThe lowest point on earth and a body of water in which very little can survive, coming to float in the Dead Sea salty waters is an immeasurably fun activity for every new visitor. Surrounded by stunning Negev desert scenery, snapping a shot of yourself unable to put your legs down or slathering yourself in mud, is a guaranteed way to gain your friend’s envy on return home after your first time in Israel.Taking a Dead Sea tour will also give you a chance to see other attractions in the vicinity, including Masada, Ein Gedi and the Judean desert. Of course, if you’re looking for pure relaxation, you can always just settle in at one of the top Dead Sea hotels at Ein Bokek. The pampering spa treatments offered there will leave you rejuvenated and reinvigorated, trust us.The Dead Sea mud. Photo credit: © Shutterstock4. The Judaean DesertLess than an hour’s drive from Jerusalem lies the ancient fortress of Masada, affording some of the most spectacular views imaginable of the surrounding Judean desert, Masada is of great historical significance to Jews, as it is where they made a last ‘heroic stand’ against a Roman invasion. Whether you ascend via the winding snake path or travel up by cable car, it’s hard not to be taken aback by the sheer beauty of this mountaintop fortress and, once at the top, the archaeological artefacts are a real must-see. Tour Masada with its once-grand Herodian palace, view the bathhouse and mosaics and let yourself be carried away by history. To fit as much in as possible, we recommend taking our Masada Sunrise, Ein Gedi and the Dead Sea Tour and for those who like an adrenaline rush, signing up for the Judean Desert Jeep Tour.Judean Desert, Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock5. The Crusader city of AcreWith its endlessly intriguing backstreets, narrow alleyways, fortifications and fascinating history, the Crusader city of Acre is another destination we couldn’t pass over. Home to ancient city walls, the gothic vaulted Knights Halls, the Ahmed Al-Jazzar Mosque, St. John’s Church, the Templars' tunnel, an old Turkish hammam (bathhouse) and a lively ‘shuk’ (Acre Old City Market), visitors are blown away by the history they encounter at every turn.Walk through the main market area, breathe in the exotic smells, and end up at the port area, which has beautiful views and excellent fish restaurants. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and with beautiful vistas across the harbour, you may never want to leave. To see more of the north of Israel, we’d also recommend joining theCaesarea, Acre and Rosh Hanikra Tour.Ghattas Turkish bath, Acre, Israel. Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin6. Sea of Galilee with its Christian sitesThe Sea of Galilee is a major attraction in Israel, both for Christian pilgrims and secular tourists. A beautiful place in its own right, this is where Jesus spent many of his adult years preaching to his disciples and ministering to the local population. Today, the area remains home to a whole host of sites, both of religious and historical significance.A visit to the ‘Kinneret’ (the biblical name for the Sea of Galilee) should always include stops at the Mount of Beatitudes (where Jesus is thought to have given his Sermon on the Mount), St. Peter’s Church in Capernaum, and Kibbutz Ginosar, where you can see the ‘Jesus boat’. Why not take our Sea of Galilee Christian Tour which even includes a stop at Cana of the Galilee, where Jesus turned water into wine.The Sea of Galilee, Israel. Photo credit: © Shutterstock 7. SafedNestled in the lush Upper Galilee, and surrounded by pine forests, the ancient and mystical city of Safed is one of Israel’s four ‘holy’ cities (the others being Jerusalem, Hebron and Tiberias, all centres of Jewish life after the Ottoman conquest of Palestine). Safed was said to have been founded by one of Noah’s sons after the biblical Flood and today it remains not just a pretty and mystical place but also a site for those interested in ‘kabbalah’ (an esoteric Jewish philosophy).Wandering the backstreets of this tiny city, you’ll see bright blue doors and window frames, especially in the Artist’s Colony. In the cemetery, you’ll find the graves of many Jewish leaders, as well as pilgrims on their own spiritual voyages. And after you’ve finished exploring the many beautiful ancient synagogues, don’t forget to take a look at the old British Mandate buildings too. The entire area is incredibly beautiful, and a Galilee and Golan two-day touris an ideal way to pass some time.Synagogue in Safed.Photo credit: © Shutterstock8. Tel Aviv PromenadeYou can’t come to Israel and not spend at least a day in Tel Aviv, the beating heart of the country, packed with cafes, boutique stores, museums, galleries, as well as long stretches of wonderful beaches. But if you’re not the kind of person that wants to shop or bake in the sun all day, then why not try a Tel Aviv bike tour?Exploring theWhite Cityas its known (because of its abundance of Bauhaus buildings), you’ll familiarise yourself with the fashionable Rothschild Boulevard, Yitzchak Rabin Square (where Israel’s Prime Minister was tragically assassinated), the Hall of Independence (where Ben Gurion announced the creation of the State), the banks of the Yarkon River at Yarkon Park and the bustling Tel Aviv Port (Namal).There’s nothing like seeing a city at ‘street level’ and Tel Aviv has dedicated bike lanes, lined with trees affording you shade, which makes cycling from north to south a positive joy. And when you’re finished, you can treat yourself to an iced coffee, a fresh juice or a local beer, and sit by the Mediterranean, in anticipation of a glorious sunset. What’s not to like, we ask?Bauhaus buildings in the White City of Tel Aviv.Photo credit: © Shutterstock9. JaffaJaffa is truly one of Israel’s most beloved tourist spots, not just because of its history (this is where Jonah fled God and ended up in a whale’s belly!) but because of its charm. Save for the cobbled streets, artist’s quarter and Jaffa port, there’s also the fabulous Jaffa Flea Market (shuk), a treasure trove of bric-a-brac, antiques, vintage clothes, designer furniture and even just plain, old-fashioned ‘junk.’The shuk is open six days a week, although Friday is by far and away the liveliest time to visit. On our Jaffa Flea Market Tour "From Shuk to Chic," you will have a chance not just to search for some treasure of your own but learn about the history of this flea market and how the area became the ‘hot spot’ that it is today.From ramshackled and out of favour to gentrified and bustling, you’ll see street art, wander in boutique stores and even get a chance to sample some of the incredible food on sale (our tip: if you’ve had enough hummus, try the spinach dumplings and jugs of lemonade at Puaa cafe, and finish with some sweet treats from Abulafia!)Jaffa flea market.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin10. GalileeThe Galilee isn’t just beautiful, but it’s also historic and well worth exploring, particularly on a Nazareth and Sea of Galilee Tour. This trip around the area will take you to Nazareth, the city where Jesus grew up, giving you the opportunity to see the beautiful Church of the Annunciation, before journeying on to the Multiplication Church in Tabgha, where Jesus turned two loaves of fishes and five loaves of bread into a feast for the five thousand.There’s also time spent at Yardenit, where thousands of pilgrims, dressed in white, wait each day to be baptised in the Jordan River, the very same place that John baptised Jesus. With its beautiful landscapes, lush greenery and charming villages, this is somewhere we’re sure you’re going to want to return, probably on aguided Galilee tour.The Wedding Church in Cana. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Israel’s Jezreel Valley (also known as the Megiddo Valley) is located in the upper part of the country, bordered on its north by the Lower Galilee, to the south by Mount Gilboa, to the west by the Mount Carmel Range, and to the east by the Jordan Valley.It is a large, fertile plane, dotted with natural springs, and affords the visitor all kinds of wonderful views. As the agricultural heartland of the country, it is famous for its astonishing flatness, as well as its beauty. Although there are many valleys in Israel, it is particularly well-known and loved and usually referred to by Israelis simply as ‘ha Emek’ which, in Hebrew, means ‘ the Valley.’Jezreel Valley from the top of Mount Tabor.Photo credit: © Jenny EhrlichWith its fertile soil and endless farms, it is a beautiful spot for hiking, picnics, and general enthusiasts of the outdoors. Often overlooked by tourists on a tour to Israel, it is not just a wonderful place for nature lovers but also boasts sites of great religious and historical significance. Jezreel, in Hebrew, means ‘ God sows’, and because of its strategic location (as a stopover for armies en route to Egypt, Turkey, or the Arabian Peninsula) the valley is not just rich in soil but also in archaeological artifacts. History of the ValleyThe history of the Jezreel Valley dates back thousands of years (circa 7000 BCE) and is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible as the home of Gideon (a military leader of the Israelites as well as a prophet and Judge). The valley is also home to one of the area’s most famous battles - the Battle of Megiddo. This is mentioned in the Book of Revelations as the place at which the last battle before the Apocalypse will be fought, between the forces of good and evil. (Fun fact: the ancient fortress city of Megiddo has seen more battles than any other spot on the earth. Join the Megiddo and the Jezreel Valley Private Tour to check that).Megiddo National Park.Photo credit: © ShutterstockGeography of the AreaThe Jezreel Valley, as mentioned before, is extremely fertile and by far and away the agricultural heartland of the north of Israel. It is the veritable ‘ breadbasket’ of the country, with its wheat crops. Driving through the area, you are also bound to see cotton fields, fish ponds, grazing cattle, sunflowers, and age-old silver-green olive trees on terraced hillsides. Farmers here (often working in collectives) grow white beans, chickpeas, cheeses, watermelons, lemons, limes, and cherries. Today, most of the population can be found in Afula or large villages, and small-scale family orchards are mainly a thing of the past although some families hold true to their heritage and continue to market crops that their forefathers did. Whether exploring the Jezreel Valley independently or by taking a private tour, traveling the area will give you the opportunity to visit not just historical and religious sites but also local kibbutzim (on our private tours, we can arrange such visits with ease).Let’s now take a look at some of the most important sites in the region, which include mountains, national parks, and even a Crusader castle. All are based in this beautiful, and often under-explored part of the country. Intrigued? Read on ...Megiddo National Park.Photo credit: © Jenny Ehrlich1. MegiddoMegiddo refers to a "tel" or hill, and ancient Megiddo overlooked the Via Maris trade route where caravans traveled (the Bible refers to it as ‘the way of the sea’). Today it is home to a well-known archaeological park where visitors can see the remains of several gates that date back to King Solomon’s reign. On the west side of the mound is a water supply and storage system dating back to the 10th century BC, with almost 200 stairs that connect to a long tunnel and underground spring. This system could not be seen by invaders and it was, therefore, a safe space for residents to hide, and survive, when under siege. Also on display is the remains of a Canaanite Palace with 2 meter thick walls and an open courtyard.2. Mount TaborFound east of the Jezreel Valley, in the Lower Galilee, Mount Tabor stands at 570 meters and is easily recognized, due to its unique shape (half hump-backed, half breast-shaped). Mount Tabor is a very important Christian site within Galilee, as it is believed to be the spot at which the transfiguration (the becoming radiant with glory) of Jesus and where he spoke to Moses and Elijah the Prophet. Mount Tabor is a perfect hiking spot since it is green annually, and also offers fantastic panoramic views of the area. Visitors should not miss a visit to the Church of the Transfiguration (built upon the ruins of an ancient Byzantine church), designed by the Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi.Transfiguration Church, Mount Tabor. Photo credit:© Natalia Brizeli3. Mount GilboaSituated in the Lower (south) Galilee, Mount Gilboa is an ever-popular spot both for locals and tourists, particularly in the spring when masses of flowers resemble a carpet beneath the visitor’s feet. It sits 650 meters above sea level, with some rather steep ledges, but still a fine spot for hiking, picnics, and a paradise for those who love flora - in particular the lily, iris, crocus, narcissus, and anemone. A settlement in Roman times (archaeologists later found burial caves found in nearby villages) the area was historically home to vineyards but after the Arab conquest in 636 CE, Gilboa was abandoned until about 250 years ago.Sights in the area include Tel Jezreel, the Hidden Valley (an excellent hiking path for experienced walkers), and the Maale Gilboa observation point, affording spectacular views to the south.4. Gan HaShlosha National ParkGan HaShlosha National Park is arguably in one of the most lovely spots in Israel and boasts far more than just a park, Located at the bottom of Mount Gilboa in the Beit Shean Valley, everywhere you look is water, splashing over into a number of waterfalls and natural pools where you can swim.The pools are also surrounded by tall trees, providing wonderful shade on hot summer days. Moreover, Gan HaShlosha boasts an archaeological museum, divided into two parts – firstly, the Museum of Regional and Mediterranean Archaeology and secondly a rebuilt Tower & Stockade pioneer settlement. This tower was one of the first ‘yishuvs’ (pre-state settlements) and dates back to 1936. 5. Beit Shean National ParkOne of Israel’s oldest cities, Beit Shean (which in Hebrew means ‘the House of Tranquility) can be found 27 km south of the Sea of Galilee. Sandwiched between the Jezreel and Jordan Valleys, it is an extremely fertile area. It is also very hot, with temperatures reaching 50 degrees in the summer. Beit Shean houses the ruins of an ancient Roman city, destroyed in the 8th century by a huge earthquake that struck the area. In 748 CE. Excavated by archaeologists and painstakingly restored, it gives you an excellent sense of how Romans and Byzantine citizens once lived.Not only does it boast an amphitheater, roads and impressive stone columns, mosaics, and a bathhouse, but it is also a national park. Visitors, after exploring the ruins, can walk in green spaces and quickly find themselves next to springs and valley trails. At present, these are the largest excavations within Israel and visitors can easily spend several hours here. Look out for the model at the entrance, giving you an excellent overview, and consider attending a Sound and Light performance, after night falls. Truly a trip back in time.Beit Shean National Park. Photo credit: © Jenny Ehrlich6. Belvoir Castle (Kokhav HaYarden)Located 20 km south of the Sea of Galilee, this fantastic Crusader-era castle (with a history stretching back to the 12th century) is easily one of the area’s hidden gems. Designed to deter Muslim invaders, it sits high above the Jordan Valley, affording spectacular views of the surrounding area.Belvoir (or ‘Kokhav ha Yarden’ which means ‘Star of the Jordan’ in Hebrew) was originally owned by a French nobleman named Velos. After he sold the land to Crusaders, they built the fortress and several battles took place there before it fell to Saladin in 1189. Until the 1960s, it sat in ruins but extensive renovations mean it is now open to the public.Architecturally, the castle is concentric (a popular design originating in Europe at that time), meaning that it was built with two defensive walls, one inside the other. Made of materials such as black basalt and limestone, the main route into the fortress was from an outer age at the foot of a south-eastern tower, ascending a ramp and then doubling back and up again to reach the inner gate in the same corner tower. 7. Beit Alpha SynagogueThe Beit Alpha Synagogue is located in the Beit Shean Valley and dates back to the 6th century. It was discovered accidentally in 1928 by members of a local kibbutz, who were digging in the area as part of an irrigation project. Excavations showed that the building that once stood there was of two floors and constrained not just a courtyard, vestibule, and prayer hall but the bimah (raised platform in which the Torah scroll was kept) faced in the direction of Jerusalem.In the entryway are inscriptions both in Greek and Aramaic and three extraordinary floor mosaics, The first depicts the famous ‘Akedah’ (‘Binding”) scene from the Bible, between Abraham, commanded by God to sacrifice his son Isaac; the second is a Zodiac wheel (depicting 12 different animal signs); the third depicts a synagogue scene, complete with a hanging lamp and a Torah shrine flanked by two lions, with Jewish ritual objects surrounding the animals. Beit Alpha is managed by the Israel Parks and Natura Authority.8. Ma'ayan Harod National ParkMa’ayan (meaning ‘Herod’s Spring’ in Hebrew) is a beautiful national park located at the foot of Mount Gilboa. It offers panoramic views of the Jezreel Valley, a large swimming pool (which is fed by water from the nearby spring), and a great deal of greenery, making it an ideal attraction for both older and younger visitors.The area dates back to the 12th century, where it is thought to have been the place that Sultan Saladin pitched his tent, en route to Jerusalem. In the 1920s the area was purchased from Palestinians by a Zionist Jew named Yehoshua Hankin, and settled by Jewish pioneers who eventually established two kibbutzes.Visitors can also explore the house and tomb of Hankin - the entrance to the tomb of Hankin (and his wife Olga) was designed by David Palombo, the architect who designed the gates of the Israeli Knesset (Parliament). Inside the house are historical artifacts relating to the Hankin era and next door is a war memorial honoring residents of the Jezreel Valley who died in many of Israel’s battles since 1948.Tsipori National Park.Photo credit: © ShutterstockDirectionsThe Jezreel Valley is not easily accessible by public transport, but the biggest city in the region is Afula, which can be reached by bus no. 825 from Tel Aviv (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes) or by train from Haifa (approx. 32 minutes). To see as much of the area as possible, in a short period of time, it is advisable to hire a car. Alternatively, if you are not keen on driving, and would appreciate the knowledge and insight a guide can give you then why not take a Galilee tour? We would recommend the Mount Tabor, Tsipori, Beit Shearim private tour, in which you can visit the famous Church of the Transfiguration, enjoy Tsipori’s ancient Roman amphitheater and also make a visit the burial caves of Rabbi Yehuda HaNassi. Since all of these private tours can be customized, it is entirely up to you to decide what to visit and how long to spend there.

After a surreal year, with all of us dealing with the effects of a global pandemic, our urge to travel has never been stronger for many. Summer is here and looking for a place to travel that’s beautiful, safe, family-friendly and offers cultural and historical landmarks too is top of everyone’s list. Israel, a very popular tourist destination for quite a few years now, fits all the above criteria so why do some people still feel a certain reluctance in visiting this country?Acre beachfront.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinSome of it, of course, comes from fear of the political situation in the region and, for sure, one can’t deny that Israel is located in the Middle East. However, Israel is also a highly developed country, with outstanding infrastructure, healthcare, and tourist facilities, and nearly everyone here speaks good (if not fluent) English. Not to mention the thousands of citizens who also manage well in Russian, French, and Spanish. Throw in the wonderful Mediterranean sea, fantastic Israeli beaches, fabulous food, and friendly locals, and what’s not to like?Personal Safety vs. Fear of ConflictThe fact is that, for tourists, Israel is an incredibly safe country to visit. You can easily walk the streets of Tel Aviv or Jerusalem at 2 am with complete confidence (in Tel Aviv, there’ll be a fair few cafes still open) and incidents of petty theft and harm to the person are rare. So where does the fear of visiting Israel come from? To an extent, the international media, which from time to time creates an image of the country that is quite incongruous with the situation on the ground. There’s also groups such as BDS (‘Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions’) and other organizations that seek to portray Israel as an apartheid state, with oppression and violence at every turn.The reality, however, is quite different, as many tourists see within days, if not hours, of flying in. As we have said before, Israel is extremely modern, not just by Middle East standards, but by world standards. It uses cutting-edge technology in everyday life, has English and French signs in every major tourist hotspot, and its locals, as a rule, are extremely friendly and hospitable (Israelis love to find out what people think of their country). It’s not uncommon for taxi drivers and barmen to ask if you have someone to eat Friday night dinner, or try and introduce your daughter to their eligible son! Welcome to the Levant…!Nevertheless, putting aside all the above, let’s look at the two major reasons behind the fears some people have when considering traveling to Israel for the first time. Rather than downplaying them, let’s explore the facts on the ground and see if the perception matches reality. If you haven’t guessed, the two major fears people currently have concern COVID-19 and the political situation with the Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza.Old Jaffa seafront, Israel.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin1. COVID-19It is completely understandable to be fearful of Covid-19; after all, this is a virus that has brought the world to its knees and many countries are still suffering terribly. However, Israel is not one of them. On the contrary - Israel is the world leader when it comes to vaccinations - as early as January 2021, it had opened inoculation centers all over the country and was vaccinating thousands of people a day. Now, with summer here, Israel is the envy of the world - it is the first country to have achieved herd immunity, masks are no longer mandatory, either in public or private, cafes, restaurants, and museums are once busier and Tel Aviv's beaches are full. Israel is most definitely a ‘green’ country and can’t wait to welcome you. Even better, because of its low infection rates, you will not generally be subject to quarantine in your home country, when you return from your holiday. Obviously, this is a fluid situation but, as of late June, the timeline for Israel’s reopening to tourists looks like this: at the current moment (i.e. mid-June) most hotels in Israel have reopened and a small number of tourists (who have first-degree relatives in the country) are permitted to enter. From July 1st, 2021, individual tourists will be able to enter Israel, subject to certain provisions. This includes visitors who are fully vaccinated - you will need to show a negative PCR test, a vaccination certificate, and undertake a PCR test on arrival at Ben Gurion airport.Israel will open initially to tourists from countries where governments have signed reciprocal agreements. The list is constantly being updated but is expected to include the USA, UK, and all EU countries. Other states will soon be applying for reciprocity. At the same time, day trips across the country will resume. If for any reason, a member of the group needs medical attention, the hospitals in Israel are some of the best in the world, so you need not fear. To check the latest COVID-19 restrictions in Israel read this article.Caesarea Aqueduct Beach.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin2. The Arab-Israeli ConflictNo one would deny that the political situation in this region is rather complicated and, unfortunately, will probably not be solved any time soon. However, as with many ‘troubled’ regions of the world, that does not mean that it is unsafe to visit as a tourist - rather it means simply using your common sense and exercising a little more caution than you normally would.At this point, most foreign embassies advise that their citizens do not travel to the West Bank. However, as tensions flare up and then abate, the situation can change and in more ‘peaceful’ moments tour companies like ours do offer guided trips to the West Bank to some interesting and important sites there (Bethlehem and Jericho tours). Once in Israel, check with your guide who can give you the lie of the land and advise you as to your safety. The political situation is explained in greater detail in this link. Why It’s Secure to Travel in IsraelNow for the good news - it is safe to travel in Israel. The upshot of having to spend over seventy years dealing with terror means that there is a lot of security in public places. Let’s start with Ben Gurion Airport - it’s easily the most well-guarded airport in the world, with (strict protocols in place that most tourists don’t even notice) to ensure your safety.The same goes for bus and train stations, shopping malls, museums, and top tourist sites in Israel such as the Old City of Jerusalem - you may sometimes be asked to open your bag - so a guard can inspect its contents - before going inside, but this is the extent of the inconvenience you will suffer. In daily life, you’ll be surprised at just how ‘normal’ things are - Israelis love their free time and enjoy nothing more than a swim at the beach or a cup of coffee with friends in their local cafe.Sunset in Tel Aviv, Old Port area.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinSomething else you will notice is young soldiers - of both sexes! That’s because Israel has compulsory national service which begins at the age of 18. Men have to serve three years and women two and their jobs are varied - from combat units and cyber security to clerks in offices, platoon cooks, and paramedics.On Sunday mornings, the buses can be really full - that’s because soldiers who’ve had weekend leave will be returning to their bases. Most of them speak excellent English and if you do end up sitting next to one in a cafe or on public transport, don’t be surprised if you end up chatting to them.Take Responsibility for Your Own SafetyFor the most part, as we’ve said, Israel is extremely safe but we can’t emphasize enough that you should take responsibility for your own safety - by using basic common sense and occasionally exercising a little causation in what you think could end up becoming a tense situation. As with anywhere in the world, you travel, there’s no guarantee that nothing bad will ever happen but there are always steps you can take to minimize danger and unnecessary risks.Here are a few dos and don'ts we recommend following in Israel, to make things as easy as possible for you:Montefiore Windmill in Mishkenot Sha’ananim neighborhood, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinList of Dos:1. Listen to your tour guide - they’re knowledgeable and experienced and, as locals, will have their finger on the pulse at all times. It’s also their job to keep you informed, so don’t feel embarrassed to ask as many questions as you want!2. Stay up to date with the news - situations unfold rapidly in this part of the world and if you’re ‘in the know’ that can be very helpful. There are also Israeli radio and TV stations that broadcast in English (i24 and YNet), as well as favorites like CNN and the BBC.3. Distance yourself from provocative or violent demonstrations, should you run into them. Don’t stop for a photo-op to show to friends back home - you might find yourself in the thick of a crowd you then can’t extricate yourself from.List of Don’ts:1. Never try to cross a border where it is not allowed. There will usually be signs to warn you and guards in the area but, if in doubt, err on the side of caution. Whilst it might seem fun to break the rules for a Facebook or Instagram post, you could really end up in a lot of trouble with the Jordanian or Palestinian authorities. Remember you are a guest in another country and aim to be responsible for your own safety.2. Don’t travel to the West Bank alone. If things are quiet, you can take a day tour to Bethlehem and Jericho with a tour company that has years of experience and local connections, which always helps. There are day tours and excursions operating both to Bethlehem and Jericho and they ensure you’ll have a seamless transition from Israel to the area controlled by the Palestinian Authority.Bethlehem rooftop view.Photo credit: © ShutterstockIf you travel alone, not only will you have to deal with checkpoints (where, as an individual, you may have to queue for a long time) but, if worse comes to worst, and trouble breaks out, you may find yourself unable to return to Israel, especially if it's over a religious holiday (when the border between Israel and the West Bank sometimes shut for security reasons). 3. Choose a trusty Israeli tour operator.This is imperative. Do plenty of research, find out how long they’ve been in business, and read their reviews. Check their credentials and reviews on TripAdvisor and don’t be afraid to call them and ask questions before you book - a good tour operator won’t have anything to hide.Beaches, Mountains, Deserts and History - Israel Has It AllTo sum up, then, we can say in no uncertain terms that first-time visitors who join tours in Israel might have a few nerves beforehand but in no time (and we’re talking hours, not days) come to realize that Israel isn’t just a safe destination but an amazing one too. With beaches, mountains, deserts, religious sites, places of archaeological and historical significance, and endless family-friendly attractions, there’s not much to complain about. Add to that the growing ‘food’ culture, the easy beat of Tel Aviv, the gravitas of holy Jerusalem, diving in Eilat, skiing in the Golan Heights, kayaking down the Jordan River, or drinking wine in some very fine Galilee vineyards, trust us when we tell you you’re going to have a holiday you’ll never forget. So now you know, what are you waiting for? Get planning your vacation in Israel and packing because it is open for business - and ready to greet you with open arms.Camel riding at the sign indicating sea level near the Dead Sea, Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Home to three of the great world faiths - Christianity, Judaism and Islam - Jerusalem is arguably one of the holiest cities on the planet. No surprise then that millions of visitors flock to it, to worship inJerusalem churches, synagogues and mosques, explore its endless historical sites, learn more about its conquests and ancestors or just to soak in the atmosphere of this extraordinary place. To do justice to Jerusalem, you’d need many days if not weeks, to wander the city but if you’re short of time, and want to see as much as you can, then - providing you rise early (to avoid the long queues) and put on some sturdy footwear - you can pack in a lot in a couple of days. Catholic Cemetery, Mount Zion, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Sofia EmeliyanovaGetting Around JerusalemIn terms of getting around, the new and modern light railway is a joy to use and, of course, within the Old City, you’re confined to walking anyway. Consider taking part in the best-reviewed Jerusalem tours if you need some fellow travelers. On a practical level, we’d advise dressing modestly (long trousers for men and skirts or dresses below the knee/tops with sleeves for women) to show respect for many of the holy places. Finally, if possible, try and plan your trip between Monday-Thursday, since Friday-Sunday are days of rest for Muslims, Jews, and Christians respectively. Here, then, is our guide to Jerusalem in 48 hours...good luck and enjoy!Day 1. The Old City and Temple MountThe Old City has an atmosphere and energy that’s hard to describe - full of winding alleyways, exotic smells, places of worship on every corner, and 16th-century Ottoman walls, the city has immense religious and cultural symbolism. Its actual size is not large - it measures less than a square kilometer - but boasting thousands of years of history, and drought over tooth and nail by invaders, it really does pack a holy punch! The Old City itself is divided into four quarters - Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and Armenian - with many buildings laying underneath the streets themselves. The present street plan dates back more or less to Byzantine times and is bisected by an east-west road (thus the four quarters). Bethesda Pools, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockChristian Sites in the Old City of JerusalemArriving through the Jaffa Gate, every visitor, whatever their faith, should walk the Via Dolorosa, which leads to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Treading the path Jesus walked, on his journey to the cross, is an extraordinary experience - stop at the different stations (marked on the ancient stone walls) and if you want to really soak up the atmosphere, go on Fridays at 3 pm, when the Franciscan Custodians of Holy Places lead a procession. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the holiest site for Christians in the entire world - this is where Christ was crucified, buried, and resurrected and the atmosphere inside is extraordinary. (Fun fact: the walls of the church are inscribed with thousands of crosses, inscribed by Crusaders who traveled across Europe hundreds of years ago and slept in the church).The Convent of the Sisters of Zion (a Catholic nunnery), the Garden Tomb (around the City Walls), the Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate, and St. Anne’s Church are also popular Christian sites within the Old City. For history buffs, consider taking a Jerusalem Half Day Tour and, at its conclusions, continuing on to explore alone.Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Photo credit: © ShutterstockJewish Sites in the Old City of JerusalemWithout a doubt, a visit to the Western Wall (or “‘Kotel’ in Hebrew) is an experience no tourist ever forgets. Jews from across the globe come to pray here since it is their most holy site (the last retaining wall of the Second Temple built by Herod in Roman times). It is open to all, free and both Jews and non-Jews are permitted to walk close to the wall, pray there and place notes in the crevices of its walls.As well as the Kotel, there is much to see in the Jewish quarter. Walk along the Cardo - the remains of a street that existed back in Roman-Byzantine times, where merchants sold their wares - and look out for the Madaba Map (an astonishing mosaic that depicts ancient Jerusalem). A hidden gem often overlooked is the Hurva Synagogue. Built in 1700, burnt down in 1720 then re-inaugurated in 1864, this was one of the most impressive synagogues that stood in the Old City before 1948. Badly damaged by shelling in the War of Independence, it was subsequently demolished but in 2010 underwent major renovations to restore its beautiful exterior. Today it is possible to take a guided tour around it - look out for the tallest Ark of the Covenant in the world! David Playing the Harp before Saul, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockFor archaeology lovers, the Burnt House is a must-visit. After the Six-Day War in 1967, Israeli archaeologists began digging in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City and found something quite astonishing - a house six meters below street level, concealed by a layer of ash. This ‘Burnt House’ dates back to the time of the Second Temple and is believed to have been the home of upper-class Jews. They were the Katros family and we know this because archaeologists found a stone weight, inscribed with their name on it.Not exactly in the Old City but not far away it is the City of David – and this can easily be joined on a City of David and Underground Jerusalem Tour.Muslim Sites in the Old City of JerusalemA visit to the Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock will be of particular interest to any Muslim since, after Mecca and Medina, the Dome of the Rock is Islam’s third most holy site. Constructed in 691-692 CE, it is instantly recognizable shimmering gold roof and blue-tiled exterior houses a sanctuary in which lies the Foundation Stone - where Mohammed (according to legend) ascended to heaven. Since non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the Dome of the Rock itself, we would recommend joining a tour of the area.The Western Wall, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinThe entire Muslim quarter is a fascinating place to explore, with tiny stores selling spices, sweet delights, vegetables, and household goods. The bazaar-like atmosphere is very Levantine - don’t be afraid to bargain either, as it’s expected! The area around the Damascus Gate is particularly lively, and a good place to grab a Turkish coffee (strong and black, with a hint of cardamom), a piece of baklava, and watch the world go by. If you have the energy, walk outside the City Walls and up to the Mount of Olives, to see a spectacular sunset.After a power nap, spend the evening at one of Jerusalem’s excellent restaurants or bars in the New City, visit the Light and Sound Show at the Tower of David, or simply stroll through the fancy Mamilla Mall. Jerusalem is also home to the Cinematheque on Hebron Road, which hosts many documentary film festivals and boasts a lovely cafe, with light bites and fabulous views. Day 2. The New CityJerusalem is home to a number of excellent museums, two of which you could easily spend the entire day at. We would highly recommend both of them, the first being Yad Vashem - the national monument to the Holocaust - and the second the Israel Museum, which houses a spectacular collection of art, Judaica, sculptures, and the astonishing Dead Sea Scrolls. At a pinch, you could visit one in the morning and another in the afternoon... although that might be a little overwhelming.Shrine of the Book, Israel Museum, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © ShutterstockYad Vashem - The World Holocaust Remembrance CenterA visit to Yad Vashem is an extraordinary experience, leaving many moved to tears and all walking away with an indelible memory of their trip. Presenting the experience of the Holocaust (‘Shoah’ in Hebrew) from a uniquely Jewish experience, it takes the visitor on a remarkable journey, emphasizing the experiences of individuals through personal possessions, testimonies, and surviving artifacts. The museum actually contains over 27,000 items that were donated by survivors over the years, including chess sets and the distinctive yellow stars that Jews were forced to pin to their clothes.Visitors walk through a large museum, at first being confronted by the Nazi rise to power, then exploring the ghettos in which Jews were forced to live and finally coming face to face with the grim reality of life in concentration camps, for the few deported who were not immediately murdered. The space visitors walk through is 180 meters long and formed like a spike with its top edge (a skylight) protruding. Deliberately designed with varying heights and differing degrees of light permeating the rooms, the idea is for it to symbolize the complexity of the Jews’ predicament as well as the idea of rebirth after destruction. The Museum also holds a Hall of Names (remembering the six million murdered) and a space to honor Righteous Gentiles, who risked their lives to save Jews.A visit to Yad Vashem is by no means a ‘fun’ way to spend a few hours. It is difficult and sometimes overwhelming to make this journey, but incredibly worthwhile and something that is recommended for every visitor to Israel, as a way to understand the collective trauma of the Holocaust that still reverberates throughout Israeli society today.Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Israel MuseumRegarded as one of the world’s leading museums, the Israel Museum offers visitors a slice of fine art, archaeology, ceramics, Jewish culture, a variety of exhibitions. as well as a beautiful Sculpture Garden, guided tours, workshops, a miniature model of the Second Temple and the opportunity of a lifetime - walking through the ‘Shrine of the Book’ building which houses the Dead Sea Scrolls.Visitors can enjoy art by European and Israeli artists alike, wander through the independent photography department, ponder over drawings and works in the design and architecture section, and take an unparalleled journey into the history and archaeology of the land of Israel.The Shrine of the Book, housing the scrolls discovered at Qumran (in the Dead Sea region) in 1947 is a highlight for all visitors. The white dome symbolizes the lids of the jars in which the scrolls were discovered and the corridor inside representing the cave itself. The building itself is astonishingly beautiful and considered a triumph by many modern architects. Fun for the Kids in JerusalemIf you’re not traveling alone, and need family-friend activities to amuse the kids fear not - there’s the Jerusalem Time Elevator, the Bloomfield Science Museum, the Biblical Zoo, or Aquarium, which youngsters will love. Located in the southwest of the city, the Zoo has all kinds of activities for children including workshops, night tours, and a petting zoo. From elephants and tigers to Ibex and Black Howler Monkeys, it’s got plenty to amuse you for several hours! The Aquarium, next door, is also an ideal place to visit on sweltering summer and rainy winter days since it’s all enclosed.Traveling around Jerusalem with kids.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinBiblical Archaeology in JerusalemFor anyone interested in biblical archaeology, Jerusalem is a paradise. To get the most out of your time in the city, however, we would recommend joining a tour such as In the Footsteps of Jesus - which includes a visit to the Pools of Bethesda, Church of St. Anne, and the Pater Noster, and a chance to see both the Garden of Gethsemane and the Mount. of Olives.An Evening at “The Shuk”After another quick rest, head off for an evening at the lively Mahane Yehuda market, directly off Jaffa Street in the heart of the city. In the last ten years, this has become the hottest spot in town for eating and drinking at night, with all kinds of food (Persian meets tapas meets Italian meets fish and chips), craft beers, and live music. If you’re lucky enough to be there on Thursdays, you’re in for a treat - it’s packed out but completely atmospheric and provides every visitor to Jerusalem with a snapshot of its inhabitants - old and young, religious and secular, foodie-lover or flaneur! After a fun evening out, go home and sleep. You deserve it, after your action-packed 2-day itinerary in Jerusalem.Mahane Yehuda Market. Photo credit: © Dan Porges

Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are Israel’s two largest cities, as well as being huge tourist centres, meaning that the majority of visitors want to see both. Luckily, the two cities aren’t far apart - in fact, by European or North American standards, travelling between them is easy and cheap. Making a day trip takes minimal effort (indeed, some Israelis commute between the two cities five days a week) and whether you want to plan ahead or just wake up and decide to head off, it’s your choice. Here, we look at some of the different ways you can make the 54 km (33 mile) journey.A statue of King David playing harp, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock1.How to Travel Between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem byBusThe Tel Aviv to Jerusalem bus service is highly recommended since it’s inexpensive and efficient, with buses leaving every 15 minutes from early morning to late at night. The Egged company runs this very popular service and if there is no traffic your journey should take between 45-55 minutes. If you want to know if it’s safe to travel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, then the answer is a resounding yes. Bus drivers are trained to high standards and, moreover, if any kind of problem arises, someone will inevitably offer you assistance - Israelis are very hospitable people and love to help! There are two central bus stations in Tel Aviv that operate this service:- The Central Bus Station (Tachana Merkazit) located on Levinsky Street in the south of Tel Aviv, close to HaHagana train station. This operates bus line 405- The Terminal 2000 station, on Namir Road/Arlozorov Street, in the north of Tel Aviv, which operates line 480.Either you can pay the driver when you board the bus (cash is fine) or use a Rav Kav card. These cards can be purchased at many points in the city and loaded up with credit which can be used on buses within the city as well as longer journeys around the country. You can also buy a ticket beforehand from a machine (most machines have an ‘English’ option) or a staff member at one of the counters. The cost of a one-way ticket is 19 NIS and there is a discount if you buy a return-trip ticket.All buses arrive at the Central Bus Station in Jerusalem, which is very close to the main highway and the Bridge of Chords. From here, it is very easy to navigate your way around Jerusalem - either by bus, the light railway (which runs all the way down to the Old City), or a taxi. The Jerusalem bus station also has an array of shops selling clothes, electronic goods, and food/beverages, so if you're desperate for a coffee or you’ve forgotten your phone charger, never fear.As with all cities in Israel, there is no public bus service on Shabbat i.e. from Friday afternoon until Saturday evening, after dark.Old City market, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Shutterstock2.How to Travel Between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem by TrainAfter decades of talks that came to nothing and plans that regularly collapsed, the high-speed rail link connecting Israel’s two largest cities opened in 2019. The Tel Aviv to Jerusalem train is, without a doubt, a fantastic way to travel between the cities - it’s a direct service, using a spacious two-level train and it takes between 36 and 43 minutes, depending on which of the three Tel Aviv stations you depart from. These stations are:- Savidor Center - like the Terminal 200 bus station (see above), Savidor is on the corner of Namir Road and Arlozorov Street.- Shalom train station - close to the famous Azrieli Towers, this station is located on the HaShalom Interchange on the Ayalon Highway - HaHagana railway station- the most southern of the three stations is also located on the Ayalon Highway, north of Highway 1 and 200 meters easy of the Tel Aviv Central Bus Station.A one-way ride costs 23.50 NIS and for much of the day, the train runs every 15-20 minutes. As with the Egged buses (see above) you can use your Rav Kav card or buy tickets from cashiers or machines in the station. You will arrive at the state-of-the-art, Yitzhak Navon station in Jerusalem, complete with modern design, vaulted ceilings, and beautiful wall mosaics. It’s also one of the world’s deepest stations (80 meters deep) and conveniently located on Jaffa Street, with access to city buses, taxis, and the famed light railway, which will transport you to downtown Jerusalem and the Old City in just a few minutes. Jerusalem light railway, Israel. Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin3. Taxi - Shared or PrivateIn all of the major cities in Israel, you will see small yellow vans standing at their main bus stations. These are called ‘sheruts’ and basically, they are ‘shared taxis.’ They take 10 passengers and are not owned by the government, which means that they run on Shabbat (unlike Egged buses and trains, which stop between Friday afternoon and Saturday evening). All you need to do is climb in and pay the driver in cash (22 NIS). Once the seats are all filled, off you go! (Bear in mind that you might have to wait a few minutes for the sheruts to fill up). Sheruts leave from the Tel Aviv Central Bus Station on the ground floor, just outside the main entrance, and can drop you either close to the Jerusalem bus station or downtown, close to Tzion Square and a short walk from the Old City.For more comfort (and if you’re willing to pay a premium) then it’s possible to take a private taxi from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Either ask your concierge to arrange this service for you or download the Gett Taxi app (as yet, there is no Uber in Israel). Expect to pay around 350 NIS door to door (and more at night or on Shabbat). Buses on Mount of Olives, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock4. Private TransferA Tel Aviv to Jerusalem private transferis a comfortable and convenient way to travel and is easily organized through a trusted tour operator. You will be driven in a vehicle that is comfortable and air-conditioned and, of course, if you wish to make a detour along the way (to visit the village of Abu Gosh, for example, or grab a cup of coffee at the ‘Elvis Diner’ then that’s your prerogative). You should expect to pay around 700 NIS for this service.5. Organized Trips to JerusalemIf you’re based in Tel Aviv, but want to visit Jerusalem and see as much as you can in a set period of time, it’s really worthwhile considering one of the many Jerusalem tours on offer. Taking a guided trip in Israel really takes the hassle out of everything - you’ll have a driver, a guide and - whether it’s one, two, or three days - the chances are you’ll get to see quite a bit more than if you’re traveling under your own steam. There are all kinds of Israel day tours and Jerusalem tour packages available - whether you want to explore the Old City, visit ancient churches, wander the world-class Israel Museum or take a stroll in the vibrant, bustling Mahane Yehuda market, there’s something that will suit you. Jerusalem is a city that offers a taste of everything - culture, history, architecture, food, and scenery. It’s probably one of the most extraordinary cities you’ll ever visit so soak it up.The Wailing Wall, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin6. Rent a CarRenting a car in Israel is not difficult - there are plenty of companies around and prices are reasonable. GalCal, Hertz, Shlomo Sixt, and Hagar are some of the most reputable names, and booking via their websites (all in English) is easy. All you need is your international driver’s license, your passport, and a credit card. Allow about half an hour to sort out the paperwork and then you’ll be good to go.There are two major routes that you can take - either Road 1 or Road 443, via Modiin. Traffic is notoriously bad on these roads early in the morning and later, after the workday ends, so try and plan your journey in quieter hours, otherwise, your journey could double in time. Also, bear in mind that parking is limited and expensive in Jerusalem itself, so if you’re visiting just the Old City itself (rather than combining your city trip with a tour of Masada and the Dead Sea for example), you’ll be better off using public transport or taking an organized Jerusalem tourfrom Tel Aviv.Montefiore Windmill, Jerusalem. Photo credit: © Dmitry Mishin

Did you know that there’s nowhere else in the world offering such a dense concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites than the small country of Israel? Israel may be tiny (it’s about the size of the state of New Jersey) but it’s a treasure trove of astonishing and unique locations. Both in its cities and the countryside, natural and manmade wonders dot the landscape, from north to south, showcasing over 3,000 years of religious, historical, and cultural diversity.Cable car to Masada Fortress.Photo credit: © ShutterstockWhat are World Heritage Sites?The ‘World Heritage’ status assigned to these locations designated for places on earth that are considered to be of outstanding universal humanity. As a result, they have been placed on a Heritage list, with the aim of them being protected for future generations to enjoy and appreciate. And what makes the concept of ‘World Heritage’ truly exceptional is that it is applied universally.World Heritage sites belong to and can be visited by people from every corner of the globe, regardless of the territory they call home. From the moment a place is declared a World Heritage Site, the country and the organization that owns it are obligated to protect it and its surroundings from any development that does not adhere to the character and spirit of the site. Once a site is on this list, not only will it benefit from such prestige, but it’s likely that more of an awareness of and pride in the site will develop, from the people who live in its locality. And of course, there’s the knock-on effect of increased tourism....peoples’ curiosity is piqued and they’re ready to find out for themselves what all the fuss is about.Today, we’re looking at some of these extraordinary places in Israel, and not just those currently on the list but others on a tentative list i.e. places that Israel wants to nominate for future inclusion. Judge for yourself - and then start planning your trip!Ein Kerem, Jerusalem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock1. The Bahai Gardens, HaifaThese beautifully styled and manicured gardens, sloping down in 19 separate terraces for almost one kilometer, and are one of Israel’s most famous and most-visited sites. The Bahai - a relatively modern religion - was founded by a Persian who named himself ‘ Bab’ and Haifa is considered to be one of his adherents' most holy sites. Divided into three parts, the bottom sits next to the German Colony, the middle houses the ‘Shrine of the Bab’ (with its distinctive gold top) and the upper sits next to the Louis Promenade. Against the backdrop ofMount Carmel, the array of fountains, ponds, masses of flowers, and sculptures are a sheer delight. A visit to the Bahai Gardens is a must when in Israel, a highlight of a private tour of Caesarea, Haifa, and Acre. Bahai Gardens, Haifa.Photo credit: © Shutterstock2. The Biblical Tels of Megiddo, Hazor, Beer ShevaOf around 200 tels (prehistoric settlement mounds) in Israel, these three are the most important, all containing substantial remains of cities with biblical connections and the first two afford astonishing views of the Jezreel Valley. At the end of the trail, descend into the underground water system, built around 8 BCE, and marvel at its engineering, which gave residents access to freshwater without having to leave the city walls. Why not visit them as part of a customized private tour of Megiddo and Nazareth?3. The Caves of Maresha and Beit GuvrinDating back over 2,000 years, and comprising over 250 underground chambers, Beit Guvrin once was a First Temple-era settlement and today you can still see the remains of a Roman amphitheater. Its quarried limestone rock caves were once used as cisterns, baths, places of worship, and even oil presses. Combining Maresha and the nearby Soreq Stalactite Cave on a private tour is a fine way to spend a few hours.Beit Guvrin National Park. Photo credit: © Shutterstock4. The Incense RouteThe ancient Incense Route once ran from Yemen, Oman, and Arabia through to Jordan and Palestine, with traders carrying spices and perfumes to barter and sell. The 100 km stretch passing through Israel includes desert cities in the Negev - Mamshit, Haluza, Shivta, Avdat...all four boast archaeological remains including a bathhouse, burial caves, and water systems.5. MasadaThe ancient Roman fortress of Masada, built by Herod the Great, and nestled in the Judean Desert, is a truly magnificent structure, which can be ascended either on foot or by cable car. Untouched for more than 13 centuries, it's hard not to stand open-mouthed, as you look out over the Dead Sea and take in the magnificence of the views and the fortification in which you stand. For the best experience, it's recommended to join one of the organizedMasada tours.Masada fortress, Israel.Photo credit: © Shutterstock6. Necropolis of Bet ShearimThis impressive archaeological site, located in the foothills of the Lower Galilee contains an astonishing necropolis - a largely designed cemetery with elaborate tomb monuments. Carved out of soft limestone and boasts more than 30 burial caves, many of the caves were pillaged by robbers in the 8th century. Although only a part of it has been excavated, the necropolis has been compared to a stone-inscribed book - its sarcophagi, mausoleums, and catacombs have elaborate symbols and figures carved into them, as well as inscriptions in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. The Necropolis is easily visited as part of a customized private tour to Mount Tabor, Tsipori, and Beit Shearim.7.AcreThe Underground Crusader City of Acre was built during the 12th century and destroyed in 1291 when the Mamluks conquered it and built their own city on the ruins. After painstaking excavation and restoration, visitors can now visit this ancient site and see the massive Crusader halls, passages, the Templars' tunnel, and chambers.The Templars' Tunnel, Acre. Photo credit: © Shutterstock8.Sites of Human Evolution at Mount Carmel: Nahal Me’arot / Wadi el-Mughara CavesLocated on the western slopes of Mount Carmel, this site includes the caves of Tabun, Jamal, el-Wad, and Sikhul, representing about 500,000 years of human evolution. The Natufian burial sites and early stone architecture show the transition from a hunter-gatherer to an agricultural lifestyle. Not surprisingly, the caves today are a key site for historians and archaeologists, because they yield so much information about the prehistory of the Levant.9. White City of Tel Aviv – the Modern MovementBased on urban planning by Patrick Geddes, the White City was constructed throughout the 1930s and reflects modern, organic planning concepts. The buildings were all designed by European architects who had learned their craft before immigrating. The result? A thriving urban center. The White City has been well preserved in all kinds of city design (profiles of streets, proportions of open and closed spaces, green areas). In many of the beautiful Bauhaus buildings, which can best be seen on a Tel Aviv Bauhaus tour, details of staircases, railings, front doors and curved balconies are much the same as they were 90 years ago. Museum of the History of Tel Aviv-Yafo (Beit Ha'ir), The White City of Tel Aviv.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinNow Let’s Take a Look at the 18 Sites on the Tentative ListTriple-Arch Gate at Dan & sources of the Jordan - this ancient structure dating back from the Canaanite period of the Bronze Age was built around 1750, out of the mud. Composed of three arches, it once stood 7 meters tall and today features two towers. The arches are the oldest ever found in Israel.Early synagogues in the Galilee - these include Meron, Gush Halav, Navorin, Bar-Am, and Beit Alpha and Korazim, and Capernaum by the Sea of Galilee. These were the first buildings representing monotheistic space, where people worshipped without idols. You can visit Beit Alpha with a Megiddo and the Jezreel Valley Private Tour.The Galilee Journeys of Jesus & the Apostles - this route begins in thecity of Nazareth, winding through Tsipori, Kfar Kana, and Magdala, around the Sea of Galilee and ending at Tiberias. The route is like a thread connecting the pilgrim sites in Galilee most sacred to Christianity (easily covered withGalilee Tours), combined with cultural and natural sites, beautiful scenery, and local communities.The Sea of Galilee and its ancient sites - many of these are mentioned above and can be visited with group tours such as Nazareth and Sea of Galilee tour and Sea of Galilee Tour.The Church at Mount of Beatitudes, near the Sea of Galilee, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockHorvat Minnim (Khirbat al-Minya) - an Umayyad-built palace in eastern Galilee, on the northern end of the Sea of Galilee.It is home to one of the earliest mosques in Palestine.Arbel - Mount Arbel in the Lower Galilee, on the way to Tiberias, features 4 villages - Arbel, Neve, Shueb, and Horns of Hittin - all with stunning views of Mount Hermon in the Golan Heights.Degania - arguably the “mother of all kibbutzes” this Jewish settlement was established in 1910, making it the earliest socialist Zionist farming community in the land of Israel.Beit Shean - the ruins of this ancient city are now protected within the grounds of a National Park and date back to the Late Neolithic period. It is mentioned in the Bible in connection with the battle of the Israelites against the Philistines on Mount Gilboa: the bodies of King Saul and three of his sons were hung on the walls of Beit Shean.Caesarea – contains magnificent remains including a large Roman amphitheater and a historic port. With its impressive ruins and beautiful Mediterranean backdrop, this ancient Herodian city is easily visited on any number of Caesarea tours.Caesarea National Park from above.Photo credit: © ShutterstockMount Zion in Jerusalem - located just outside of the Old City, this Jerusalem hill has been called Mount Zion since the Middle Ages, even though Jewish scripture refers to the Temple Mount by the same name. Holy to Jews, Muslims, and Christians, it is home to a number of important sites and landmarks including King David’s Tomb, the Chamber of the Holocaust, the Room of the Last Supper, and the Protestant Cemetery. Visit Mount Zion with one of the Jerusalem tours.The White Mosque in Ramle - located in the heart of ancient Ramle, the White Mosque was first built in 8 CE, when the town first proposed. The ruins today date from the end of the 12th century, when it was renovated upon the orders of Saladin. The tower is 30 meters high and between it and the mosque ruins are three subterranean water reservoirs.Makhteshim Country - the Negev desert, in Israel’s south, is a colorful and rocky terrain and is dominated by a number of ridges and deep, breathtaking valleys. Makhtesh, in Hebrew, means crater and the valleys have common features: they are surrounded by steep limestone walls. The Ramon crater is the most impressive of them, at 38 km long and 450 meters deep.Dome of the Rock and Mount Zion at sunrise, Jerusalem, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockMount Karkom - located in the southern Negev desert at the northern edge of Nahal Paran, this is one of the world's best examples of rock engravings.Timna - situated in the Arava desert, close to Eilat on the Red Sea, Timna is rich in copper ore and historians believe that there have been mines in existence there since 5 or 6 BCE. Set in around 15,000 acres, with steep cliffs and red-pink mountains surrounding it, Timna is a spectacular natural attraction.The Crusader Fortresses - Montfort, Belvoir and Atlit, and Arsuf are four remarkable fortresses built between the 12th and 15th centuries and their attention to detail and size are astonishing. Each fortress represents a different Crusader Order - Teutonic, Hospitaliers, and Templars. As the decades passed, the balance of power shifted constantly between Crusading Fortresses and regional Muslim armies - today they offer a fascinating glimpse into this ancient world.Apollonia (Arsuf) Crusader Fortress.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinThe Great Rift Valley - the Hula Valley is a small part of the Great Rift Valley and a bird lover’s paradise. The main migrating season is in the fall, when pelicans, herons, storks, and cranes arrive in huge flocks, along with birds of prey and other winged species.Liftah (Mye Naftoah) - this abandoned Palestinian village contains numerous original dwellings, a spring, agricultural terraces, and partly preserved landscapes. It includes unexcavated archaeological remains of earlier periods.Ein Kerem - this charming village on the edge of Jerusalem, with lush greenery, contains remains from the Iron Age. Christians believe that Ein Kerem is the birthplace of Saint John the Baptist. Other holy sites in Jerusalem are, as yet, unlisted since ownership is contested and therefore there is no settled status. However, the West Bank does have some inscribed World Heritage sites of its own including Bethlehem (the birthplace of Jesus) and the archaeological site Tel es-Sultan, both of which can be visited on a group tour of Bethlehem and Jerichoor with private tours.The Church of St. Catherine, Bethlehem.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

A great many of Israel’s visitors want to see as much of the country as they can on their trip, and two of the spots they prioritize are Tel Aviv and Eilat. Tel Aviv, the beating heart of the country’s centre, is close to Ben Gurion airport and an ideal place to spend a first night after arrival and even a few more days afterwards, enjoying cafe life, cultural pursuits and some fine dining. Eilat, nestled on the Red Sea, is a popular destination too, especially in the winter when temperatures are warm and swimming and sunbathing are a top pastime. With its breathtaking views (look one way you can see Jordan, look the other there is Egypt, and look behind you for pinkish, orange-red hued mountains) it’s perfect for chilling out, snorkelling and a little hiking in the nearby Timna Park. If you’re feeling adventurous you can also join aPetra tour from Eilat.Eilat beach.Photo credit: © ShutterstockFrom Tel Aviv to Eilat - Four Ways to Do ItThe distance from Tel Aviv to Eilat is 281 kilometers. There are 4 ways to travel from Tel Aviv to Israel's southernmost resort: bus to Eilat, rental car, plane, and private transfer. Below, we’re going to give you some helpful pointers to make sure everything goes as smoothly and easily as possible along the way. Luckily, Israel is a small country, so no journey ever takes that long (even when on desert roads!) but having the ‘lie of the land before you set off is always a good idea.Unfortunately, Israel does not yet have a direct train running between the two cities. The proposed high-speed rail link has been talked about for years but, unfortunately, the project is currently at a standstill. To date, the furthest you can travel by train is to Beer Sheva and Dimona (a tiny town a little way on). There is a small stretch of railway that passes beyond Dimona, running out to some phosphate mines in the Tzin Valley, but the train that heads there is for cargo only and functions on an 'as and when' basis.Red Sea, Eilat, Israel. Photo by Vitaliy Paykov on UnsplashInsider TipsOf course, you could take the train as far as Beer Sheva and then catch a bus onto Eilat, but this would mean making a change and, if you have a lot of luggage or small children, it could be inconvenient and tiresome. Still, it’s possible - and let’s give you some insider tips. Firstly, reserve a seat on the Beer Sheva - Eilat bus three days in advance. Try and book one in the middle (not over the wheels) - number 18 is ideal! Look for a seat on the shady side (no. 17 if you’re traveling in the morning and no. 19 if in the afternoon).Book a train to Beer Sheva and make sure you leave plenty of time for your connection. After arriving (the journey is approx. 1 hour 10 minutes), exit the train station and turn left. You will see the bus station right in front of you. If you need to use the bathrooms, it’s better to do so in the train station - they tend to be cleaner than the ones in the bus station!Grab a snack or a light bite in the bus station, which has all kinds of eateries, plus coffee shops. We recommend the shawarma and also the bourekas (pastry filled with salty cheese or potatoes). Pick up some water too - the driver will probably stop for a coffee break at Yotvata Inn, but that won’t be for another two hours or so, and if you’re traveling in the summer, it’s essential not to let yourself become hydrated. Egged intercity buses in Israel. Image: via Egged Facebook pageA tip: when you arrive at Yotvata, you’ll have time to stretch your legs but also to pop inside and treat yourself to one of their famous Italian-style ice creams, which come in a marvelous range of flavors (we recommend the mascarpone and figs). There’s also a fantastic date-flavored frozen yogurt and mango sorbet for those who prefer to avoid dairy. Yotvata also has a gift store where they sell boxes of juicyMedjool dates, all grown on their own kibbutz. Now onto the direct options.Getting from Tel Aviv to Eilat by BusThe bus is a pretty good option and, as buses go, it’s a comfortable journey with varied and beautiful landscapes. At around 70 NIS one-way, it’s also rather cheap (public transport is heavily subsidized in Israel). The national bus service is called Egged and their green and white logo is easily recognized. We’d recommend booking a seat in advance, just to guarantee that you won’t be turned away, but if you want to take a chance, just show up with cash (or a loaded Rav Kav card) and if there’s a spare seat, the driver will welcome you aboard. Tickets can be ordered online via Egged’s website (in Hebrew) or by phone at 03 694-8888 or *2800 (many of the operators speak English as well) using a credit card. Vintage Egged bus from the Egged Bus Museum in Holon.Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinEgged ScheduleSunday-Thursday: This is the Israeli work week and buses leave regularly, with line 394. This is located at Platform 601, on level 6 of the Central Bus Station on Levinsky Street. Buses leave regularly i.e. every 90 minutes, with the first one departing at 06.30. On Friday, the last bus usually leaves around 14.00. This is because the Jewish Shabbat begins when dusk falls on Friday and public transport in Israel generally stops running a couple of hours before. On Saturdays (i.e. the Jewish Shabbat) buses depart a little before the end of the day (i.e. before night falls) - sometimes as early as 14.00 from Tel Aviv. Always check the timetable carefully and, if possible, call up in advance to confirm your departure, as all times are subject to change, depending on adverse weather conditions (e.g. flash floods in the Negev).Self-Service Tickets with EilatomatAnother thing to bear in mind is that if you decide to book tickets in advance (through the website or the Customer Service Center) you will need to collect them from a self-service ticket machine named Eilatomat. These machines can be found in the central bus stations of Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Rishon le Zion, Haifa Hof ha-Carmel, Haifa Central, Hadera, Rehovot, Beer Sheva, and Netanya. A ticket can be collected from an Eilatomat ticket machine up to 2 hours before boarding and then shown to the driver when you enter through the front door. We recommend arriving 20 minutes in advance, as the lines can be long! Antique Egged buses from the Egged Bus Museum in Holon. Photo credit: © Dmitry MishinGetting from Tel Aviv to Eilat with a Rental CarIt’s relatively simple and not particularly expensive to rent a car in Israel if you want to drive. Both Ben Gurion airport and Tel Aviv have a number of car rental businesses, including Eldan, Hertz, Tamar, and Shlomo Sixt. Just bring your passport and driver’s license and you should be issued with a vehicle within 30-45 minutes. The journey from the country’s center to the far south will take between four to five hours (depending on your speed and if you stop for a coffee break in Mitzpe Ramon, where you can admire the views of the crater and even pop in on the Artist’s Quarter or if you’re with young kids, the Alpaca Farm). From Mitzpe to Eilat, the road is winding and narrow (and it’s where accidents often happen) so please take particular care, especially at night, when there will be long stretches of road with no light. If you are easily car sick, we would advise taking this journey in the day, when it’s easier to stop and take a breath! The scenery is also beautiful - the desert landscapes are arid and rugged, and as you drive through the Arava, the rocks will turn pink, orange, and red in color.Sunset inEilat area. Photo credit:© Oksana MatsGetting from Tel Aviv to Eilatby PlaneThis is a fast option and an excellent idea if you need to travel straight to Eilat, after arrival in Israel at Ben Gurion Airport. The internal flight will take just under an hour and Arkia, Israel’s domestic carrier operates a service every couple of hours. After a long, international flight, taking trains, buses, or renting a car could quickly turn into an ordeal, particularly if you’re very jetlagged. Flights cost around $100, so save yourself time and energy - with Arkia, you’ll be in Ramon airport in no time. From there, it’s a 15-minute journey to Eilat, either by taxi or local bus. Of course, if you want to see desert scenery, you can always catch the bus back to Tel Aviv, on your return leg, or rent a car.Musical fountain in Eilat.Photo credit: © Oksana MatsGetting from Tel Aviv to Eilat with a Private TransferIf you are based in Tel Aviv, the quickest and most convenient way of all would be to book a private transfer to Eilat. This ‘door-to-door’ service means you’ll be picked up and dropped off exactly where you choose - and you can also break the journey if you choose (a pit stop at Beer Sheva, Mitzpe Ramon, or the famous dairy store at Yotvata Kibbutz - see above). Make sure to choose a trusted tour operator, who will answer all your questions in advance and tailor the experience to your specific needs.Now you’re ready. Don’t forget your COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a snazzy bathing suit. Everything else is optional! Trust us, you’re going to have a fine time. Shalom and enjoy!Getting to Eilat by camel is not an option anymore.Photo credit:Muhammad Abo Omar