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On this 2 day tour you’ll see the highlights of Jerusalem and Bethlehem as well as spending time at a pampering Dead Sea spa. Visit famed landmarks of Jerusalem’s Old City including the sacred Western Wall, Via Dolorosa, Holy Sepulchre Church and bazaar. In Bethlehem visit the Church of Nativity to see where Christ was born. Drive south descending to the Dead Sea where you can unwind, relax and be rejuvenated.

This 2 day tour package of Northern Israel includes Nazareth; Caesarea and the Crusader city of Acre. Tour the ancient Roman port city of Caesarea. See Haifa’s terraced Baha’i Gardens and the sea grottoes of Rosh HaNikra. Tour fascinating sites in Acre and stop in Nazareth at the Church of Annunciation. At the Sea of Galilee visit Christian landmarks like Capernaum then stop at Yardenit where you can be baptized in the River Jordan.

This 2 day Nazareth and Golan Heights tour covers stunning scenery, biblical locations and Jesus’ hometown. See Christian sites by the Sea of Galilee like Mount of Beatitudes and Capernaum. Tour Nazareth’s Church of Annunciation and St Joseph’s Church. Drive through the breathtaking greenery of the Golan Heights to an excavated Talmudic village in Katzrin. Stand on Mount Bental, site of former Syrian fortifications and get views across the border into Syria.

This 2 day package tour visits Caesarea and the Golan. Drive up the Mediterranean coast to Caesarea, an excavated ancient Roman port city. Tour the hippodrome, palace, temple and the amphitheater that is still in use today. In the Golan see where Jesus spent his ministry. Enjoy the lush green countryside; tour Katzrin’s excavated Talmud-era village and stop at Mount Bental on the Golan Heights for spectacular views.

Visit iconic landmarks and Biblical locations on this Classic Jerusalem 2 day tour. From Mount Scopus look out across the rooftops of Jerusalem. Stop at important Old City sites including the Western Wall, Via Dolorosa and Holy Sepulchre. At Yad VaShem Holocaust Museum be blown away by authentic artifacts. Walk through Jerusalem retracing Jesus’ footsteps; get breathtaking views from the Mount of Olives and visit unique sites like the Pools of Bethesda.

Step back in time on this Jerusalem 2 day tour and visit Christian sites you’ve only read about in the Bible. On the Jerusalem tour see places like the Mount of Olives, Jerusalem’s Old City and the Holy Sepulchre Church. Follow the route Jesus took bearing his cross along the Via Dolorosa to Calvary. Tour Bethlehem and see where Jesus was born. Visit Bethlehem’s Nativity Church and other incredible Christian sites.

This 2-day package tour covers Israeli’s cultural and archaeological gems. In Bethlehem stop at the Nativity Church to see where Jesus was born and visit the Church of St. Catherine. Pass by Shepherds Field and descend below sea level to Jericho one of the world’s oldest cities. Visit Qasr Al-Yahudon the Jordan River where John baptized Jesus.Tour Herod’s 37BC palace-fortress on Masada’s plateau summit. Spend time on a Dead Sea beach relaxing and floating in the salty water.

This 2-day tour visits Jerusalem; Bethlehem and Jericho. Look across the Jerusalem skyline from Mount Scopus and Mount of Olives. Walk through Jerusalem’s Old City seeing iconic landmarks like the Western Wall and Holy Sepulchre. Drive south through stunning desert landscapes to Jericho. See Zacchaeus’ tree and pass by the Mt. of Temptation.Continue toQasr al-Yahud on the Jordan River where John baptized Jesus.In Bethlehem visit Christian sites including the Nativity Church to see where Christ was born.

This 2 day Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Jericho tour covers iconic landmarks and Biblical sites. In Jerusalem follow in Christ’s footsteps on the Mount of Olives. Walk along the Old City’s stone-paved streets and visit places you’ve dreamed of seeing. Tour Jericho where Joshua caused the city walls to fall and stop at Zacchaeus’ tree. Visit Qasr al-Yahud on the Jordan River, where John baptized Jesus. In Bethlehem visit the Nativity Church and see where Jesus was born on the first Christmas.

Take this 2 day tour of Jewish Jerusalem, historic landmarks and archaeological treasures. In Jerusalem’s Old City stop at Jewish heritage sites like the Western Wall. Visit the Tomb of King David on Mt. Zion and the subterranean City of David. At Masada tour the remains of Herod’s fortress and learn of Masada’s role in Jewish history. Unwind on a Dead Sea beach and float in the mineral-rich salty water.

This 2 day tour visits Jerusalem, Masada and the Dead Sea at the lowest point on Earth. Walk through Jerusalem’s Old City and visit iconic landmarks like the Wailing Wall and Holy Sepulchre Church then visit Yad VaShem Holocaust Museum. Drive south to Masada and tour the 1st century BC mountain-top fortress. Spend time on a Dead Sea beach relaxing and benefiting from the therapeutic qualities of the mineral-rich water.

This exciting 3 day tour to Nazareth, Caesarea and the Golan covers top Holy Land attractions. Visit the excavated ancient Roman port city of Caesarea on the Mediterranean coast. In Nazareth see where Jesus spent his childhood. In the Golan see green rolling hills, the Sea of Galilee, forests, vineyards and ancient sites like Katzrin. Stand on the top of the Golan Heights for breathtaking views of the stunning scenery.

Explore northern Israel with this 3 day tour package that includes a stay on an Israeli Kibbutz! Tour the remote Golan Height with its lush countryside and rich history. Visit the ancient Roman port city of Caesarea and the UNESCO-listed Crusader city of Akko. Discover the wonders of the Upper Galilee, the beauty, history and culture of northern Israel.

On this 3-day tour package visit the most important Biblical locations and iconic religious sites in the Holy Land. See where Jesus was born in Bethlehem and travel to ancient Jericho.VisitQasr al-Yahud on the Jordan River where John baptized Jesus.In Jerusalem stand on the Mount of Olives and walk in Jesus’ footsteps through the Old City of Jerusalem. You’ll experience holy sites like the Via Dolorosa, Garden of Gethsemane, and the iconic Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Temple Mount; Har HaBayit; Al-Haram Ash-Sharif (The Noble Sanctuary) or Mount Moriah is a plaza on an elevated area within the Old City of Jerusalem. It is located behind the Western Wall in the southeastern corner of the Old City. Temple Mount is the holiest Jewish site on Earth as it was here that the Holy Temple once stood and where Abraham prepared to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice to prove his devotion to God. The mount is also sacred to Christians as the Holy Temple is mentioned in the New Testament. The New Testament describes how Jesus was presented at the Temple as a baby and how he was found teaching scholars in the Temple when he was just 12 years old. Later Jesus cleansed the Temple of merchants (Mark 13:2). It is also the third most sacred site in Islam. The site is mentioned in the Koran as the place visited by Mohammed on his Night Journey and where he stepped up into heavenHistory and Religious Significance of the Temple MountThe history of Temple Mount can be traced back thousands of years. The Jewish people believe that the holy inner sanctum or Holy of Holies of the temple that once stood here held the original Ark of the Covenant, a gold chest that enshrined the two stone tablets bearing the Ten Commandments brought down from Mount Sinai by Moses. The Temple was where God’s presence could be felt by all and where people gathered to make sacrifices and pray. Solomon is believed to have built the First Temple (Beit HaMikdash) on the mount in c.833-950 BC. It was a mammoth, intricate multi-level structure, about the size of a football stadium, and was eventually destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar II in the Siege of Jerusalem (c.587 BC). The First Temple is described in Deuteronomy 12:2-27. The Book of Ezra tells us of the Second Temple, completed in 515BC and destroyed by Romans in 70AD. In 20BC King Herod the Great made major renovations to the Temple and extended Temple Mount to the north, south, and west creating a compound encircled by retaining walls of limestone blocks.Since the Temple’s destruction, it has been the desire of every Jew to once again see the Holy Temple reconstructed. This wish is mentioned in prayers and there are many temple-related mitzvoth that can only be performed once the Temple is rebuilt. According to Jewish tradition Temple Mount is the place where the world was created, where it will end, and where the Messiah will appear.After the Second Temple’s destruction, Temple Mount stood in ruins until the Muslims conquered Jerusalem in 638 AD and the site was cleaned up. The Umayyad Caliphs ordered the construction of the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the southern side of the mount facing Mecca and the Dome of the Rock in the center of the plaza where the original Jewish Holy Temple’s inner sanctuary might have been. The mosque is revered by Muslims as one of the earliest Islamic places of worship. The Dome of the Rock, completed in 692 AD is one of the oldest existing Islamic structures in the world and is said to be built over the Foundation Stone, which was the heart of the Jewish Temple.The octagonal Dome of the Rock holds the sacred rock of Moriah. The Al-Aqsa Mosque is associated with the Koran passage that describes Muhammad’s miraculous Night Journey that brought him to the “Furthest Mosque.” After arriving in Jerusalem, Muhammad is believed to have ascended to heaven in 621 AD making the Night Journey both physical and spiritual. Temple Mount’s significance in Judaism and Islam has made it a point of contention for many years.Temple Mount TodayToday the Mount is enclosed by ancient 65m-high walls at the southeastern corner of the Old City. Some of the walls date back to the Second Temple. On the western and northern walls are four minarets built between 1329 and 1622. The Western Wall is in fact a remaining segment of the outer retaining wall of the Second Temple and an extensive section of the wall runs below ground and can be visited through the Western Wall Tunnels.There are seven entry gates: Non-Muslims can only enter through the Bab al-Magharibeh Gate; there is also the Chain Gate; Cotton Merchants’ Gate; Iron Gate and the Watchman’s Gate. The Golden Gate is sealed and Jews believe this is where the Messiah will enter the city on the Day of Judgment. Once on Temple Mount visitors can see a paved compound with several structures.The most recognizable is the gold-domed Dome of the Rock; others include the Al-Aqsa Mosque; fountains; Dome of St. George; Dome of the Spirits; arches; prayer niches; domed pavilions; date palms; cypress trees; the Islamic Museum and the Dome of the Chains. The Dome of the Rock is on a raised area reached by a few steps spanned by Mameluke-era stone arches.Today Temple Mount is under Israeli sovereignty but day-to-day administration is by the Muslim religious trust (Islamic Waqf). The religious sensitivity surrounding Temple Mount has meant that there have been occasional outbursts of violence and protests. A small group of Jews have been known to protest for the right to pray on Temple Mount and Muslims have been known to protest against the Israeli sovereignty over the site.Under the present status-quo which has been maintained since the end of the 1967 war non-Muslims are forbidden to pray on Temple Mount but they are permitted to visit at certain hours. Non-Muslims may not enter the Dome of the Rock and there are strict security measures to prevent weapons from entering the compound. Muslims may visit at all hours, entering through all of the gates and may pray. The best, and safest way to visit Temple Mount is with a guided tour.Want to visit Temple Mount? Join ourJerusalem Temple Mount & Dome of the Rock Tour.

The Roman Catholic Convent of the Sisters of Zion marks the location of an important event in the Passion of Christ. It stands between the 1st and 2nd Station of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem’s Old City. The Gospel of John describes how Christ was given a crown of thorns and a purple robe then presented to the crowd by Pontius Pilate who addressed the people saying “behold the man” (Ecce Homo in Latin). Pilate’s speech gives its name to the stone arch that curves over the Via Dolorosa. It is the central arch of a 2nd-century triple-arched gateway. The southern arch no longer exists but the northern arch continues through the wall into the convent’s Ecce Homo Church where it forms a backdrop to the altar. Establishment of the Convent of the Sisters of ZionMarie-Alphonse Ratisbonne was a Jewish convert to Catholicism and co-founder of the Congregation of Notre-Dame de Sion, a religious order dedicated to reconciliation between Jews and Christian. In 1857 Ratisbonne purchased land in Jerusalem’s Old City to build a convent for the Congregation of Notre-Dame de Sion. The convent was built between 1858 and 1862 incorporating the northern section of the ancient archway into the convent’s church. The convent complex included an orphanage, hospice, medical dispensary, and school for girls that was attended by girls from across the region. The girls' school continued to operate until 1967 when it was repurposed to house a library and the Ecce Homo Pilgrim House. The complex also houses a branch of Chemin Neuf, a Catholic ecumenical community focused on the unity of multiple Christian denominations.Archaeological Treasures of the Convent of the Sisters of ZionOriginally a Hasmonean (2nd century BC) canal ran through this area, providing water to the Temple onTemple Mount. Herod the Great (King of Judea 39 BC - 4 BC) turned the canal into a moat around the Fortress Antonia and dug a reservoir into the moat. The 54mX14m Struthion Pool was one of a chain of open-air reservoirs providing water to the city. In 135 AD Hadrian covered Herod’s rock-hewn pool with a vaulted ceiling and created a cistern. Above the cistern, he built the triple-arched Ecce Homo Archway as a triumphant arch and grand entrance to the forum, or market place of his new city, Aelia Capitolina. Hadrian had the forum paved with flagstones.Lithostrotos in the Convent of the Sisters of ZionThe Roman flagstones run beneath the Sisters of Zion Convent and the nearby churches of Flagellation and Condemnation. Here bored Roman guards passed their time playing dice games on marks scratched into the flagstones. An engraved crown with the letter B for basileus (Greek for king) was found on the flagstones beneath the convent. This supports the belief that it was the site of Christ’s judgment as referred to in John 19:13 as the “stone pavement” (Gabbatha or Lithostrotos). If Hadrian brought stones from Herod’s destroyed 1st century BC fortress to pave his forum then Christ's Judgement may have happened at a different location, but for now, the archway remains the traditional site.Visiting the Convent of the Sisters of ZionJust beyond the impressive Ecce Homo Arch step off the Via Dolorosa and visit the Convent of the Sisters of Zion. Take a few moments to contemplate the events that took place here 2,000 years ago, Christ’s suffering, and his final walk through the aggressive crowd to his crucifixion. In the Convent of the Sisters of Zion see the authentic Roman flagstone paving, the Lithostratos and in the Ecce Homo Church see the magnificent Roman arch.

The Church of the Nativity is the most important landmark in Bethlehem and marks the site where the nativity took place. It was in Bethlehem just over 2,000 years ago that Mary gave birth to baby Jesus. Today Bethlehem is a thriving city in the Palestinian Authority West Bank approximately 10 km south of Jerusalem and the Nativity Church is the city’s top attraction.In 2012 the Bethlehem Church of the Nativity was added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.History of the Church of the NativityThe Bible tells us that Mary and Joseph left their home in Nazareth and traveled to Bethlehem. The Romans had decided to carry out a census and people were required to travel to their ancestral family home to register. As Joseph was from the House of David and Bethlehem was David’s city the couple had no choice but to make the long journey despite Mary being pregnant.During Jesus’ lifetime, it was common for homes to be built close to a cave they could use to house their animals. When Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem and found no room available in the inn they were offered to spend the night in the adjacent cave with the animals. With no other options, and Mary about to give birth, they settled down in the manger. Less than a century after Jesus’ death Christians had identified the site of his birth as a cave in Bethlehem. In the 4th century, the first Christian Roman Emperor Constantine and his mother Helena commissioned the construction of a church to be built around the sacred cave of the nativity. The church was dedicated in 339 AD. In the 6th century, the church suffered fire damage and Emperor Justinian replaced the church with a larger, more ornate one. In 614 the Persians invaded the Holy Land and destroyed most of the churches. Luckily the Nativity Church was spared thanks to a mural in the church depicting the Three Wise Men (Three Magi) who were dressed in Persian apparel of Zoroastrian priests. The Crusaders arrived in the Holy Land in the 12th century and during that time added twin towers that have not survived and murals; traces of which can still be seen. Two Crusader kings were crowned in the church. In the 1600s the invading Turks looted and damaged the church. In 1482 a new roof was paid for by King Edward IV of England. In the 1800s the church suffered damage from earthquakes and was later looted under Ottoman rule for its marble and lead which was melted down to make bullets. In 1847 the Silver Star which marked the site of the Nativity was stolen and this sparked an international conflict over control of the Christian sites of the Holy Land as the French, Turkish Ottomans, and Rome vied for power. In the end, they agreed on shared custody of the Nativity Church between the Armenian Church, Catholics, and Greek Orthodox. The Greeks were made custodians of the Grotto of the Nativity. Each of the custodian denominations cares for a specific area of the structure and they all hold services in the church.What to See in the Church of NativityAs you approach the church entrance you will pass by Manger Square and enter through the Door of Humility. This small and low doorway was designed so that looters could not get their carts into the church. It also means that all those that enter need to bow down as they cross the threshold. The stunning interior has walls covered in gold-hued mosaic. Space is divided into five aisles by 44 painted columns. A section of the mosaic floor from the original 4th-century church can still be seen through an opening in the flagstones. Sanctuary lamps add a wonderful atmosphere to the church and an open ceiling shows the exposed wooden rafters. In the south aisle stands an octagonal baptismal font from the Justinian 6th century church. The font would have once stood near the high altar.The Roman Catholic Chapel of the Manger has retained parts of the 12th-century capitals and mosaics. The main point of interest within the church is the Grotto of the Nativity. The cave is reached by descending a small flight of steps where the site of Jesus' birth is enshrined. The exact point where he was born is marked by a beautiful silver star on the marble floor. Hanging above this holy site are 15 sanctuary lamps. The church has several altars including the Altar of the Circumcision; the main altar that features a traditional Orthodox iconostasis and the Armenian Altar of the Three Magi (Three Kings).The Three KingsThe Armenian Chapel of the Kings is dedicated to the Three Wise Men. In Matthew 2:1-12 we read of wise men that came from the East in search of the newborn king. When they arrived and found Mary and her newborn child they knelt down and paid homage presenting gifts of frankincense, myrrh, and gold. Although the Bible does not tell us there were three men or even whether they were kings over the years the story has been embellished and the Three Wise Men are now a part of the traditional nativity story.Armenian Christian tradition believes the wise men to have been Persian Zoroastrian priests belonging to the “Magi” sect of Persian priests. These priests were considered extremely wise and even thought to possess magic powers. The word “Magi” from the Greek word magoi is also where we get the word magic from. In 614AD the Persians sacked the churches of Palestine but spared the Church of the Nativity ostensibly because they saw a wall mosaic of the Three Wise Men (the Magi) dressed in Persian clothing. Armenian Christians and the Three Wise MenArmenian Christians come from a nation in the mountainous Caucasus region. In 301 AD Armenia became the first nation to adopt Christianity as its official religion. Many Armenian pilgrims made their way to Jerusalem to visit biblical sites and settled in Jerusalem. To this day the Old City of Jerusalem is home to a community of Armenian Christians who live in the Armenian Quarter.The Armenians share custodianship of several religious sites including the Church of Nativity.The Armenian Christians traditionally have a link with the Magi which explains the choice to have a chapel dedicate to them in one of the most important churches in the world. Armenian legend holds that the three Magi, Melkon of Persia, Gaspar of India, and Baghdasar of Arabia passed through Armenia on route to Judea when they heard of the birth of Christ. They had with them 12,000 horsemen but decided to leave their army with the Armenian King Abgar and continue on to Palestine with 1,000 horsemen and 12 princes. The legend tells of the Magi returning to Armenia after the birth of Christ and then continuing on their journey.The Armenian Chapel of the KingsThe Chapel of the Kings is in the church’s northern transept on the spot where the Three Wise Men arrived to witness the nativity on the first Christmas Eve. The Armenian Chapel occupies a narrow room open to the nave of the church. The two-side walls are lined with dark wood cabinets and paintings of biblical scenes. The Altar of the Kings stands at the far end of the chapel. Gold and blue colored spiraling columns rise up from the altar table supporting a solid canopy adorned with gold and blue patterns. In the Armenian Chapel, you can see part of the remains of the original octagonal structure built in 326 AD to encase the Holy Grotto. In the Church of the Nativity Christmas is celebrated on 25th December for the Roman Catholics; 13 days later the Greek Orthodox celebrate and an additional 12 days later the Armenians have their Christmas celebrations. The Armenians celebrate the arrival of the wise men on the 6th of January.To visit the church of Nativity, join our Bethlehem Half-Day Tour.

The Armenian Quarter is one of the four sections within the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem. The other Quarters are the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim Quarters. The Armenians have the smallest section in the Old City and take up 14% of the total area of the Old City. The Quarter is home to approximately 2,000 people many of whom are connected to the Armenian Apostolic Church. The Armenians have their own distinct language and culture and are ethnically neither Arab nor Jewish.The Armenians originated from the Armenian Highlands of Asia Minor (in present-day eastern Anatolia). Soon after Jesus’ death, the Armenians were converted to Christianity and ever since then have been making pilgrimages to the Holy Land. Armenian monks arrived in Jerusalem in the 4th century AD. Jerusalem’s Armenian community is considered the oldest living Armenian Diaspora community in the world.The Armenian compound is enclosed by an inner wall within the Armenian Quarter and includes St. James, a convent, school, churches, and residences. Along the walk from the Jaffa Gate past the Zion Gate and to the Jewish Quarter are many small shops displaying the beautiful hand-painted Armenian pottery which is made locally. Armenian ceramics can be seen adorning many parts of the Old City including the Dome of the Rock and neighborhood street signs.One of the highlights of the Quarter is the Mardigian Museum of Armenian Art and Culture, which displays illuminated manuscripts and documentation covering the history of the Armenian people. One of the main exhibits is a printing press brought to Jerusalem by the Armenians in the 1830s and used in the St. James Press founded in 1833.The Armenian Church of St. JamesThe Armenian Quarter was built around St. James Monastery which is home to the Armenian Apostolic Church’s Jerusalem Patriarchate. The ornate 12th-century church holds a shrine dedicated to St. James, Jesus’ brother. James was beheaded (Acts 12:1-2) and tradition has it that his head remained in Jerusalem’s Armenian church while his body is in Santiago de Compostella in Spain. Exquisite Armenian ceramics can be seen around the doorways of the church complex and tourists can enter the church courtyard or enter the church daily from 3-3:30 pm. The Armenian Patriarchate’s treasures are publicly displayed once a year on St. James Day.Want to visit Jerusalem's quarters? Join our Jerusalem Old and New Tour.

Manger Square is one of the top attractions in Bethlehem, a Palestinian city in the West Bank 10km south of Jerusalem. The Square is flanked by two other major attractions – the Church of St Catherine and the Church of Nativity. Manger Square takes its name from the adjacent Church of the Nativity that enshrines the Grotto the Nativity (the “manger”) where Jesus was born although the square itself is not mentioned in the Bible. As the heart of Bethlehem’s Old City Manger Square is the center for all tourist activity and the starting point of most Bethlehem tours. Manger Square is also the site of many events throughout the year. Flanking the Square are the 4th century Church of Nativity; Church of St. Catherine; the Mosque of Omar; Bethlehem Municipality building; souvenir stores and the Bethlehem Peace Center. During the Ottoman-era Manger Square was an open space used as a fresh produce and livestock market. In 1929 the market was moved to a new location in the Old City. In 1998 and 2000 the Square was renovated. Manger Square has been pedestrian-only since the recent renovations and is a meeting place for tourists and locals. The square has trees that prove shade; benches and fountains.Christmas Eve in BethlehemOn Christmas Eve, Christians gather from around the world to celebrate the birth of Christ at the site of the nativity. Inside the adjacent Church of Nativity a Midnight Mass is held while outside on Manger Square the service is broadcast on giant screens. The Midnight Mass is also broadcast around the world to millions of Christians. A huge Christmas tree stands in the center of the square and the crowds sing Christmas carols and pray. Christmas is celebrated here three times a year; December 25; January 7th for Orthodox Christians and on January 19th according to the Armenian Christian tradition.Want to take part in the Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem’s Manger Square? join ourChristmas Eve in Jerusalem & Midnight Mass in BethlehemTour.

Most Westerners and all Christians are familiar with the famous carol “While shepherds watched their flocks by night” a hymen based on Luke 2:8-14. The biblical passage describes a group of shepherds watching over their animals in a field at night. An angel appears before the shepherds and tells them that the Savior, Christ the Lord has been born in a manger in nearby Bethlehem.The shepherds then make their way to Bethlehem and see the newborn babe in the manger. According to the description in the Bible, three possible locations were identified for the site of the Shepherds’ Field; all are around the predominantly Christian Bethlehem suburb of Beit Sahur. One site east of Beit Sahur is marked by a red-domed Greek Orthodox church; a second site further to the east is marked by a Protestant church and a third site on the northern side of Beit Sahur is in Siyar el-Ghanam and is the most widely accepted site for the Shepherds’ Field.Chapel of the AngelsThis site is marked by the magnificent Chapel of the Angels (Chapel of the Shepherds’ Field), designed by Antonio Barluzzi in 1954. The chapel is shaped like a field tent that the shepherds may have used. Above the chapel entrance is the bronze figure of an angel. The chapel has a cement and glass dome that lets in light symbolizing the great light brought by the angel. The church holds breathtaking murals depicting the angel appearing to the shepherds; the shepherds paying their respects to Jesus and celebrating the birth of Christ. The Franciscan church encompasses an ancient cave that the shepherds may have used. Alongside the Chapel of the Angels are the remains of a 4th century church and monastery; this shows that the site was identified as Shepherds’ Field as early as the 4th century. Join a tour to Bethlehem to visit Shepherds Fields and other landmarks in Bethlehem.

Ein Gedi is an idyllic desert oasis in Israel, near the Dead Sea on the eastern edge of the Judean Desert. Ein Gedi means “spring of the kid” (young goat)” probably because of the spring streams that run through Ein Gedi and perhaps because of the many agile goats you can see along the surrounding cliffs. The main attraction for tourists is the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve.Ein Gedi Nature ReserveThe Ein Gedi oasis is one of the few places where desert streams flow year-round. The park lies alongside Kibbutz Ein Gedi and covers 1435 hectares. Visitors to Ein Gedi can walk along pathways and trails that follow the streams, through ravines, and past towering cliffs. The park encompasses waterfalls and Ein Gedi Baths,natural pools where visitors can bathe. There are also canyons, caves, the remains of an early Bronze Age temple, and lush vegetation.Ein Gedi is home to some rare and endangered species of plants. Among the greenery, you can see small animals like the rock hyrax. Along the edge of rocks, Nubian ibex (a desert goat species) defy gravity by walking effortlessly along almost vertical cliffs. Other animals living in Ein Gedi include wolves, bats, foxes, and animals that are mostly active at night.The park covers 140000 dunams and includes Nahal David and Nahal Arugot, two natural spring-fed streams which flow all year-round as well as Shulamit Spring and Ein Gedi Spring. The abundant water in such a dry environment is used for bottled water and for local agriculture.The David Stream Trail runs parallel to the stream and passes by a number of natural pools and waterfalls where you can cool off. The hiking trail along the Arugot Stream is longer and usually less crowded. Most of these hiking trails require walking through the water. The abundant water feeds the trees and plants including Christ’s thorn jujube, desert date trees, Sodom’s apple milkweed as well as reeds, elephant grass, ferns, and willow trees.Ein Gedi in the BibleIt is believed that Ein Gedi is referred to in Chronicles II 20:2 as Hazazon-Tamar, a place where the Ammonites and Moabites gathered to fight King Josaphat. The same site is referred to as an Amorite settlement in Genesis 14:7. In Joshua, Ein Gedi is one of the wilderness cities listed as belonging to the Tribe of Judah. In Ezekiel, we read how Ein Gedi will become a fishing village when the water of the Dead Sea turns sweet.The most famous biblical reference to Ein Gedi is in Samuel I when King David took refuge in the Judean Desert as he fled his predecessor, King Saul. Ein Gedi is referred to again in Psalm 63 when David goes into the wilderness of Judah. There are also mentions of Ein Gedi in the Song of Songs and Ecclesiastics.Other Attractions at Ein GediNot far from the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve is Kibbutz Ein Gedi. The kibbutz runs a guest house and botanical garden. Almost the entire area of the kibbutz is planted with beautiful plant species from around the world. There are about 900 species covering 10 hectares. While at Ein Gedi visit the Na’ama Lookout in the Ein Gedi Field School. From here there are views across Ein Gedi. You can also cross the road and go down to the Dead Sea for a swim; see the remains of the Ein Gedi Synagogue between David Stream and Arugot Stream or see the Chalcolithic-era temple that has been excavated nearby.When, Where, and HowReach Ein Gedi on the Dead Sea road #90 between the desert and the western shore of the Dead Sea. An average visit lasts from 1.5 hours to a full day and the best seasons to visit are in spring, winter, or fall. In the summer the temperatures can be scorching. The reserve is open April to September 8 am-5 pm and October to March 8 am-4 pm. The entrance fee is 29ILS for adults and 15ILS for children. If you just want to see the ancient synagogue the entrance fee is 15ILS for adults and 7ILS for children. Nearby attractions include the Dead Sea, Masada, and Qumran. You can shop at the nearby Ahava factory shop for Dead Sea products and you can stay overnight at one of the luxury hotels at Ein Bokek or at the Ein Gedi Kibbutz Guesthouse, the field school, or camp by the Dead Sea.Liked this article? Join our day tour Masada Sunrise& Ein Gedi

Qumran is a site located about 16 km south of Jericho on a dry plateau just 1.5 km from the northwestern shore of the Dead Sea in the Judean Desert. The site has been excavated and findings show that Qumran was home to members of the 2nd century BC Essene Sect. Today the archaeological site is protected within the Qumran National Park. In addition to the archaeological discoveries at Qumran, it is also the closest settlement to the site where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found.The Archaeological Site of QumranThe excavation of Qumran provided invaluable insights into the lives of the Essene Sect. They were a sect derived from Judaism and their group thrived in the 2nd-1st centuries BC. Essene communities lived in isolation and abstained from all sensual pleasure in order to pursue their spirituality. This made Qumran the perfect home for the sect. Here they were completely isolated from the rest of society and could devote themselves to religious study. Excavation at Qumran uncovered a scriptorium, a room devoted to coping religious texts. The room contained structures presumed to be writing benches with pottery inkwells and pottery lamps so that the scribes could even work at night. Shards of pottery found in the scriptorium were of the same unique type as the pottery found with the Dead Sea Scrolls. This led experts to believe that the Essene were perhaps the writers of the Dead Sea Scrolls and that the scrolls constituted the Essene library. Other excavated structures include a long dining room where members of the sect would eat their communal meals. In the adjacent room, 1,000 ancient serving vessels were found including plates, cups, and bowls. The excavated settlement has numerous mikvot (ritual baths) where the members of the sect would perform cleansing rituals. Large cracks in the structures were probably caused by an earthquake in 31 BC. The archaeological excavation also discovered an extensive cemetery where 1,200 tombs were found. The Essene survived in the harsh desert climate thanks to a water supply from the Qumran Stream and the Eynot Stream. They channeled the stream water into reservoirs and even used it to irrigate land where they grew dates and raised animals.Visitors to the Qumran National Park can see an exhibition of archaeological findings and a display illustrating the history of Qumran. There is a short introductory film, a museum, and a visit to the excavation site itself. Visitors to the park follow the ancient aqueduct that would have brought water to the Essene community. The path leads visitors past the excavated dining room, scriptorium, kitchen, meeting room, ritual baths, watchtower, stables, and pottery workshop. From an observation deck, you can get a view of the Qumran Stream and several caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered.The Dead Sea Scrolls of QumranIn 1946/47 and in 1956 some 981 ancient manuscripts in earthenware jars were discovered in 11 caves near Qumran. The scrolls date back to the 3rd-1st centuries BC and are the oldest Hebrew texts found in the Holy Land. Most of the scrolls are written in Hebrew but others are written in Aramaic and Greek. The texts are written on papyrus and one on copper. Among the texts, every book of the Old Testament is represented except Esther. No New Testament texts were found. The Dead Sea Scrolls provided invaluable information about early Biblical texts and Jewish life during the Biblical era. Their significance is historical, linguistic, and religious. Today the scrolls have been preserved and are on display in the Shrine of the Book on the grounds of the Israel Museum in Jerusalem.

Megiddo is a "tel" or hill which was the site of an ancient city-state in Israel, it has also given its name to a nearby kibbutz (Kibbutz Megiddo); church, and road junction. Megiddo, Tel Megiddo, or Tel al-Mutesellim is located southeast of Haifa near Afula, overlooking the Jezreel Valley.Megiddo lies at the eastern entrance to the Carmel Mountains.The site is a popular stop forGalilee Tours. Tel Megiddo rises 21.3 meters from the ground and the surface area on the summit covers 10 acres. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and within the Megiddo National Park.The History of Tel MegiddoAncient Megiddo overlooked the Via Maris trade route where caravans and armies traveled. The Bible called it the Way of the Sea, it is also called the Megiddo Pass (Wadi Ara).Civilizations came and went from Megiddo each leaving traces of their cities. Excavations have unearthed 26 layers of ancient settlements dating back to the Chalcolithic period 7000 BC ago. Megiddo has been inhabited by Assyrians (7th - 8th century BC); King Ahab (887 BC) who had the water system constructed; King Solomon and the Israelites; King David; Philistines; Canaanites and was finally destroyed by the Egyptians in 609 BC. Other civilizations which left their mark on Megiddo were the Egyptians (732 BC), Greeks, Persians, and Romans.Historians claim that Megiddo probably saw more battles than any other site in the world. The Battle of Megiddo in the 15th century BC was between the Egyptians and the Canaanites; the Battle of Megiddo in 609 BC was between the Egyptians and Judeans; the Battle of Megiddo in 1918 was fought between the British and the Ottomans and of course there is the final battle, the battle of Armageddon as predicted in the New Testament.Megiddo in the BibleMegiddo is mentioned eighteen times in the Bible including in Joshua; Kings I and Kings II. Megiddo is described as the city of Solomon where he had four thousand horses and as an Assyrian capital. Megiddo is the biblical site of Armageddon.Megiddo Archaeological ParkToday an archaeological park encompasses Tel Megiddo. There are the remains of several gates – from the 15th century BC; 9th century BC (during King Solomon’s reign) and from the 18th century BC. Solomon’s Gate had a roof and three chambers on each side. The remains of a Canaanite Palace include 2m-thick walls and an open courtyard. There are stable complexes from the 9th century BC (Israelite Kingdom) where you can see parts of the stable walls and troughs. In the past, there would have been 5 stables in the city with many chariots and horses. The remains of 17 temples have been discovered from different periods. There are also burial chambers; city walls; the Southern Palace; a four-room house and a silo.Megiddo Water SystemOn the west side of the mound is a water supply and storage system dating back to the 10th century BC. It consists of 183 stairs leading down 36 m to a large pit and a 70 m long tunnel that connects with an underground spring. The water system remained unseen by enemies and the residents of Megiddo could survive under siege with an abundant supply of water. Today visitors can descend the staircase all the way down the vertical shaft and along the subterranean tunnel to the spring.To visit Megiddo join Megiddo Private Tour.

Mount Precipice also known as the Mount of Leap or Mt. of Precipitation stands on the outskirts of Nazareth in northern Israel. It is the traditional site where Jesus was rejected by an angry mob and where a miracle occurred.Mt. Precipice in the BibleLuke 4:15-30 tells of Jesus’ visit to Nazareth and how he attended synagogue where he read from the Book of Isiah: ”The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me; Because he has anointed Me.” Jesus then sat down and said, “Today the scripture is fulfilled.” In this, he was declaring himself to be the son of G-d, the Messiah.The worshippers in the synagogue were outraged by Jesus’ audacity and a mob of angry town’s people gathered. They chased Jesus out of Nazareth intending to throw him off the cliffs of Mount Precipice. There Jesus passed through the crowd of people and disappeared. His disappearance is left unexplained – a miracle. He may have leaped off the mount, disappeared miraculously, or jumped into a hidden cave. The Bible does not explain further.Mt of PrecipitationExcavations at the Mount of Precipitation uncovered the Qafzeh Cave which held prehistoric remains including 13 Neanderthal-era skeletons dating back 100,000 years. The cave could have been the same one that opened up giving Jesus a place to hide from the mob as he seemed to disappear.On a visit to Mt Precipice, you can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Tabor and the Jezreel Valley. The lookout point on the top of Mt. Precipice is the start of the Gospel Trail, a hiking trail that connects several Biblical locations. On the north side of the mount is a 40,000-seat auditorium which was used for the most famous Masses ever held in the Holy Land. In 2009 Pope Benedict XVI held his biggest ever Holy Land Mass here and in 2013 the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem led 7,000 Catholics in prayer on the International Day of Faith.

The Annunciation Church in Nazareth stands on the site believed to have been the Virgin Mary’s childhood home. It is also where the Angel Gabriel appeared before her and told her of her future son, the Messiah. The appearance of Gabriel, his announcement and Mary’s consent to be the mother of God is known as the Annunciation. There have been four earlier churches built here to mark this Biblical site, the earliest being a 4th century Byzantine church followed by a Crusader church; a 14th century Franciscan church and the present church completed in 1969. You can still see parts of the previous churches incorporated in the present structure and the remains of Mary’s grotto home. Today the beautiful church is the city’s top attraction and attracts Christians from around the world that come to see the remains of Mary’s home and the magnificent church.The Church of Annunciation NazarethThe present church was designed by Giovanni Muzio and completed in 1969. The Catholic Church has basilica status and is one of the largest churches in the Middle East. The Annunciation Church has two levels and reaches a height of 59.5 meters. The church has two levels an upper level and lower level. At the heart of the lower level is the sunken Holy Cave or grotto, Mary’s former home and site of the annunciation. This is also the level where the remains of earlier Crusader and Byzantine churches can be seen. You can see a stone wall behind the cave which has survived from the Crusader’s 12th century church. A Byzantine floor mosaic has survived from the 5th century. In the grotto stands an 18th century altar and alongside it stands an ancient column probably from the 4th century. A small staircase leads from the grotto to a smaller cave known as Mary’s kitchen and from there to the exit and the exterior yard. Directly above the Holy grotto is an octagonal opening beneath the copula so that people on the upper level can look down into the Holy grotto. Beneath the altar on the upper level is one of the world’s largest mosaics. Crowning the church is a beautiful concrete cupola created to resemble an inverted Madonna lily with its petals open. The lily is a symbol of Mary’s purity and of Nazareth. The dome is topped by a lantern that lets natural light into the upper level of the church. The upper church is used as the Nazareth Catholic parish church.Highlights of Nazareth’s Church of the AnnunciationHighlights of the church include the names of former Popes engraved in the marble floor; a mosaic painting by Salvador Puma featuring Jesus, Mary and Saint Peter; a bronze statue of Jesus and reliefs of Mary, the Angel Gabriel, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. A statue of young Mary as she would have been when the angel came to her overlooks the southern entrance welcoming visitors. The bronze doors of the church feature reliefs depicting scenes from Christ’s life.Mosaics of the Church of AnnunciationOne of the most fascinating features of the Annunciation Church is a collection of mosaic Marian devotions displayed on the walls of the church and the church yard. These mosaics each depict Mary and baby Jesus and were donated by Christian communities around the world. Each mosaic reflects the culture of the country it was made in and the way they envision Jesus and Mary. There are 43 mosaic paintings from places like Spain, Italy, Ukraine, Japan, the Canary Islands and Columbia. It is fascinating to see the different depictions of the Holy pair, for example in the Chinese mosaic Mary is Chinese; the Honduras and Thai Mary wear their national costumes; the American Mary is black and the Cameroon mosaic features African symbols.To visit The Church of Annunciation Join our Nazareth and Sea of Galilee Tour.

The Sea of Galilee (also called by its Old Testament name – Kinneret) is a freshwater lake in northern Israel’s Galilee region nestled in a valley surrounded by fields, forests, and mountains. On the eastern shore is the Golan Heights mountain range and on the western shore is Tiberias the largest city on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. The Kinneret is traditionally called a “sea” but is actually a lake. It is about 21km long and 13km wide covering 166.7km². The Sea of Galilee is fed by underground springs and the River Jordan which flows into the lake from the north and out at the southernmost point. It is Israel’s main water reservoir.The Sea of Galilee in Biblical TimesThe Kinneret is mentioned in the Old Testament but appears more prominently in the New Testament. Jesus lived in Galilee for several years during his ministry when he traveled between the small settlements on the shore of the lake and in the surrounding hills preaching the word of G-d. Jesus recruited his apostles from the lakeside villages; gave the Sermon on the Mount at the Mt. of Beatitudes that overlooks the sea and walked on water at the Sea of Galilee. Jesus also calmed the storm at the Sea of Galilee and fed the multitudes with just seven loaves of bread and two fish. Jesus appeared to his disciples after his resurrection on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.Sea of Galilee AttractionsEnjoy the pastoral surroundings of the Sea of Galilee; relax on the beaches; go camping; visit religious sites; hike the Sea of Galilee Trail that circumvents the lake; do watersports and take boat excursions. Highlights of a trip to the Sea of Galilee include Tiberias, a vibrant waterfront city home to the graves of Jewish sages, and Yardenit, a baptismal site at the southern end of the Sea of Galilee in the Jordan River. Visit the churches that mark New Testament locations like Tabgha, Capernaum, Cana, and Mount of Beatitudes. At Kibbutz Ginosar you can see the Jesus Boat, a 1st-century fishing boat found in the bed of Lake Kinneret.Want to explore the Sea Of Galilee? Join ourSea of Galilee, Cana, Magdala & Mt. of Beatitudes Tour.

The Mount of Beatitudes (also known as Mount Eremos) is a small mountain in northern Israel in Galilee near the town of Tabgha on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. The mount is between Capernaum and Tabgha and overlooks the fields of Gennesaret. Not far from the mount is Sower’s Cove where it is believed that Christ told the parable of the sower (Mark 4:1-9). The Mount is believed to be the site where Jesus delivered the Sermon on Mount.The Sermon on the MountMatthew 5:3-11 and Luke 6 relate how Jesus spoke to the gathered followers and began his sermon with the eight beatitudes (from the Latin word for blessings) “Blessed are the poor/they who morn/meek/they who hunger and thirst for justice/merciful/pure of heart/peacemakers/ they who suffer persecution for justice sake. The mount would have provided enough space to accommodate the followers and the gradual incline forms a perfect natural amphitheater where Jesus could have delivered his sermon.Mount of Beatitudes as the site of the Sermon on the MountThe Mount of Beatitudes is the traditional location of the Sermon on the Mount, one of the New Testament Bible’s most significant addresses. Although the mountain was not specifically named in the Bible the site has been revered as the sermon location since early Christian pilgrims began visiting the mount and writing about it in the 4th century AD. The remains of a 4th-century church and its cistern can still be seen as well as what is left of an early monastery on the mount. The Mount of Beatitudes also meets the geographical specifications from the Bible as at the time Jesus was based in Galilee during his ministry years. The mount is also conveniently located in close proximity to the place where Jesus is believed to have performed the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fish where he fed 5,000 followers with only 5 loaves and 2 fish.The Mount of Beatitudes is a popular Christian pilgrimage site. In 1964 Pope Paul VI visited the site and his cloak still hangs in the church while in 2000 Pope John Paul II held mass on the site. The Jesus Trail, which retraces the steps of Jesus and goes through the villages and sites he would have visited during his ministry in Galilee, includes the Mount of Beatitudes.The Church of the Mount of BeatitudesThe Roman Catholic Franciscan church was designed by A. Barluzzi and constructed in 1938 in the Byzantine style. The church was partially funded by Mussolini and constructed for use by Franciscan nuns. It has an octagonal shape representing the eight beatitudes and the seven virtues are depicted in the mosaic surrounding the altar. The inner dome is particularly beautiful with gold mosaics but most are in awe of the idyllic setting and breathtaking views from the mount. The church facade has aesthetic arches supported by columns around, covered cloisters, and above that towers the one central dome. The church is surrounded by peaceful gardens and in the expansive courtyard in front of the church is a mosaic floor created by Italian artist Vasco Nasorri in 1984. The mosaic depicts justice, prudence, fortitude, charity, faith, and temperance.Practical Information:Where: The Mount of Beatitudes is reached via Route #90 turning off at Tabgha and traveling towards Rosh Pina and the Upper Galilee.Open Hours: The Church of the Mount of Beatitudes is open daily from 8:30 am to 12 noon and again from 2:30 pm to 5 pm (4 pm in winter). Admission: There is a free entrance to the church but a fee for the parking lot.To exploreMount Beatitude Join ourSea of Galilee, Cana, Magdala & Mt. of Beatitudes Tour.

Capernaum (Kfar Nachum) is a city on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee which can trace its history back to the 2nd century BC. Capernaum features in the New Testament as the place where Jesus based himself during his ministry.Capernaum in the BibleDuring Jesus’ lifetime, Capernaum was a fishing village and home to the disciples, Andrew, John, James and Peter who were all fishermen as well as the tax collector, Matthew. The Bible tells us that Jesus left Nazareth and went to live in Capernaum where he based himself while traveling to villages in Galilee to preach during a period of his life referred to as his ministry. Here in Capernaum, he saw the future disciples casting their nets into the sea and he called out to them to join him. In Mark 1:21 we head of how Jesus taught in the Capernaum synagogue. We also read of Jesus performing miracles in Capernaum. Jesus cured a man who was possessed; he cures Peter’s mother-in-law of a fever; cured a Roman centurion’s servant in Capernaum and cured a paralyzed man. Jesus must have spent a considerable amount of time in Capernaum as the Bible refers to it as “his own city.” Later Jesus cursed Capernaum and its people because of their lack of faith (Matthew 11:23).Capernaum AttractionsHouse of Peter - Several ancient dwellings were uncovered in Capernaum but the one that stood out was the site of Peter’s house. 2nd-century Christian pilgrims left graffiti on this early dwelling some bearing the name “Peter.” This has brought experts to believe that it may have been venerated as the house of the apostle Peter as far back as the mid-1st century. A 4th-century house-church was built here and later in the 5th century, an octagonal church and baptistery were built above the same site. Today a modern octagonal church stands above the ancient ruins which can be seen through a glass panel in the floor. Looking down through the glass you can see the remains of the original dwelling and the Byzantine octagonal church built around it.Ancient Synagogue of Capernaum – The remains of two synagogues, built one on top of the other, have been uncovered in Capernaum. Archaeologists estimate that the earlier synagogue was built in the 1st century AD so it would have stood here during Jesus’ lifetime and may have been where he preached and performed miracles. The west wall of the synagogue has survived and on top of the remains, a 3rd-century Byzantine synagogue was built. The later synagogue had white limestone exterior walls and painted stucco interior wall. The white brick stands out against the other excavated remains which were built in the local black basalt rock. Excavations have uncovered Roman-era dwellings and on top of those a 4th century Byzantine village. Visitors can see the excavated remains of the Byzantine village built from the local black basalt rock. There are also displays of early stone agricultural equipment and oil presses in the courtyard of St Peter’s House Church.To visit Capernaum Join our Nazareth and Sea of Galilee Tour.

Plan Your VisitLocation: Ben Gurion Boulevard, Tel Aviv.Open Times: 24/7. Ben Gurion Househours are - Sun, Tues, Wed 09:00-16:00, Mon 09:00-19:00, Fri 09:00-13:00, Sat 11:00-15:00. Gordon Pool: Sun 13:30-21:00, Mon -Thurs 06:00-21:00, Fri 06:00-19:00, Sat 07:00-18:00.Prices: Free.Average Visit Duration: 1 hour.Tours: Ben Gurion Blvd. (and the rest of Tel Aviv) is packed with hidden gems that can only be discovered on a Tel Aviv personalized private tour.Fresh juice stall, Ben Gurion BoulevardBen Gurion Boulevard or Sderot Ben Gurion in Hebrew, is a beautiful tree-lined boulevard in Tel Aviv that is far enough from the tourist center to make it a hidden gem, yet close enough to reach on a short walk through the city. It connects two sites worth visiting - Rabin Square and the beachfront. The boulevard was named after Israel’s first prime minister and is also the site of his former home.Where is Ben Gurion Boulevard?Ben Gurion Blvd. runs west from between City Garden shopping mall and Rabin Square on Ebn Girol Street to HaYarkon Street on the beachfront. It brings you to Kikar Atarim, a plaza overlooking the marina and the Gordon Pool. Ben Gurion Blvd. runs parallel to Gordon Street and Arlozorov Street and intersects several streets including Ben Yehuda Street and Dizengoff Street.What to See on a Walk Down Ben Gurion Blvd.Most of the houses along Ben Gurion Blvd. were built in the 1930s to house Jews fleeing war-torn Europe. They were designed in the Bauhaus or International style. This functional architectural style with clean lines, and rounded balconies, earned Tel Aviv UNESCO status as the White City for its high concentration of Bauhaus buildings.Bauhaus style building,Ben Gurion BoulevardA walk down Ben Gurion Blvd. will give you a great overview of Bauhaus as well as other classic architectural styles. The shady boulevard is surprisingly green with an eclectic mix of ficus, olive, sycamore, and tamarisk trees as well as a few palm trees. Pro Tip: Israel’s most prominent street artist, Rami Meir has painted graffiti art at two places on Ben Gurion - on the corner of Ben Yehuda Street and Ben Gurion Street on the wall of Kiyosk Eli, a kiosk in the middle of the street, and at the junction with Dizengoff Street.Square of the Righteous Among the NationsAs you leave Rabin Square and start walking west on Ben Gurion Street, you’ll see a park on your right. This memorial park is dedicated to gentiles who risked their own lives to save Jews during the Holocaust.Pro Tip: The park was home to Tel Aviv’s first zoo but was eventually moved because the residents complained about the noise and the smell. Today the best zoo in Israel is the Safari Park in Ramat Gan. Beit Hannah Just before the intersection with Reiness Street at #75 Ben Gurion is a one-story house named in honor of Hannah Chisik who lived here in the 1920s. In 1926, she established training farms for young women to help them become self-sufficient. The farm produce was then sold from a store in this house. The building itself was designed in 1935 by Jacob Pinkerfeld in the Bauhaus style. Today Beit Hanna (which has another branch in Florentin) offers a space for women to come together and enjoy sport, spirit, and personal growth in classes and activities. Ben Gurion HouseIsrael’s first prime minister, David Ben Gurion lived in a modest house at the western end of the boulevard for about 40 years. #17 Ben Gurion Blvd. was perfectly located for Ben Gurion to walk down to the beach where he would stand on his head for a few minutes as part of his exercise routine. The house has been restored and furnished as it would have been when Ben Gurion and his wife Paula lived here and is now a house museum open to the public.KiosksAs in the past, several kiosks line the boulevard selling food and drinks. The boulevard also has several cafes, many with outdoor seating.A kiosk at the intersection of Boulevard Ben Gurion and Ben Yehuda StreetPro Tip: Along Ben Gurion Street there are Tel-O-Fun bike stations where you can rent a bike, explore the city’s many bike paths, and return the bike to any other bike station throughout Tel Aviv.Gordon PoolCreated in 1956, this iconic Tel Aviv pool is filled with salt water from underground springs. It is a large complex with a gym and exercise studio.Gordon PoolPro Tip: Enjoy a meal at Stolero in the Gordon Pool lobby overlooking the Tel Aviv Marina.

Plan Your Visit Location: Yemin Moshe neighborhood, JerusalemOpen Times: 24/7. Montefiore Windmill Visitor Center is open Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 to 17:00 (19:00 in summer) and Friday and Saturday from 10:00 to 14:00.Prices: Free. Entrance to the Montefiore Windmill is also free.Average Visit Duration: 1-2 hours.Notes for Visitors: If arriving by car you will need to park nearby and enter the neighborhood on foot as it is mostly a pedestrian-only area.Special Events: Although Yemin Moshe might be a sleepy quaint neighborhood, it is surrounded by beautiful parks where there are several outdoor performance venues. The parks, plazas, and open-air performance venues are often used for festivals and special events including the Chutsot Hayotser International Arts and Crafts Fair, and the Jerusalem Film Festival.Tours: Combine a private tour of Jerusalem with a visit to Yemin Moshe. Pro Tip: There is a free tour of the Montefiore Windmill on Fridays and Saturdays that must be pre-booked on the Windmill website.Yemin Moshe street sign in three languages, Hebrew, English and ArabicYemin Moshe is a charming Jerusalem neighborhood reminiscent of a quaint European village. It offers cobbled lanes and stone houses draped in vines and bougainvillea, with colorful window boxes and quaint eateries. Today it is one of the gentrified, luxury residential neighborhoods overlooking the Old City. This is a haven in the busy city yet close enough to walk to from the Old City. And if you’re wondering about the name it means “the right hand of Moses” not the biblical Moses, but Moses Montefiore who was responsible for the establishment of the neighborhood.Pro Tip: Yemin Moshe is not far from The First Station, and you could easily walk between both sites.Yemin Moshe and Mishkenot Sha'ananimIn 1859, Mishkenot Sha'ananim (Dwellings of Tranquility) was built across from Mount Zion, just a few steps from the Old City. It consisted of two elongated buildings, one was a shared space that answered the needs of the community and included a hospital, two synagogues, and a bakery with a communal oven. The other building was divided into 28 tiny apartments. The neighborhood was inhabited by the destitute.Pro Tip: The two original long buildings still exist. One is home to the Jerusalem Music Center and the other building is used by the Jerusalem Municipality to host honored guests. Among those who have stayed here have been Jean-Paul Sartre, Marc Chagall, and John Le Carre.Although MIshkenot Sha'ananim was built to accommodate the poor it was not enough, and soon the neighborhood needed to be extended to make room for new residents.The Neighborhood of Mishkenot Sha'ananim and the Montefiore WindmillHistory of Yemin Moshe, JerusalemAt a time when the residents of Jerusalem lived within the Old City walls, a crowded, yet expensive place to live, Yemein Moshe was built beyond the walls as a neighborhood and was intended for the poor who could not afford to live inside the city. The year was 1894, and the first two buildings constructed were called Mishkenot Sha’ananim. The project was funded by Moses Montefiore (1835-1874), perhaps the most famous British Jew at the time.Yemin Moshe was a simple neighborhood with larger homes than the original two Mishkenot Shaananim structures. The homes were one-story stone houses with red brick rooftops. The community shared an oven, and they supported themselves by running a printing press, textile factory, and windmill for grinding wheat.In 1948, the State of Israel was established and the War of Independence broke out with neighboring countries attacking on all sides. Jordanian forces took East Jerusalem, and Yemin Moshe found itself on the edge of the barbed wire fence that divided the city for 19 years. The neighborhood was abandoned as it was too dangerous to live in.In the 1960s the Yom Kippur War saw the entire city of Jerusalem return to the hands of the Israelis. After the war, the neighborhood underwent a complete makeover, the poor were moved out and luxury properties were built. Thankfully, many of the original structures as well as the character of the historic neighborhood survived.Points of Interest in Yemin MosheThe neighborhood isn’t overflowing with attractions, but it is worth visiting to enjoy the ambiance which is something unique and different from other areas of Jerusalem. The best way to explore Yemin Moshe is to simply wander along the picturesque alleyways.Pro Tip: The neighborhood has a lot of stairs that connect the different levels of the neighborhood which is built on a slope. It is not wheelchair-friendly. Many of the alleyways are pedestrian-only with no access for cars.Montefiore WindmillYemin Moshe’s most famous attraction is a beautiful stone windmill, built in 1857 three years before Mishkenot Sha’ananim was established. The windmill was built by Moses Montefiore using funds from the estate of Judah Touro. The intention was that the windmill would encourage the residents to make a living by running the mill and help them to become self-sufficient, grinding their own flour. The mill wasn’t a success because of the lack of wind in the area, and pretty soon it was abandoned. The stone windmill is perched on a hill offering breathtaking views of the city and serves as an iconic symbol of Jerusalem's past. Today the windmill houses a small museum dedicated to Montefiore, a visitor center, and a wine-tasting center.Pro Tip: The plaza by the windmill is sometimes used for outdoor performances by the Khan Theater’s repertoire company.Sunburst at the historic windmill in Yemin MosheJim Angleton CornerThis quiet spot is an observation point overlooking the walls of the Old City. It is situated near the Confederation House (also in Yemin Moshe). The observation point is in memory of Jim Angleton, a former Chief of Counterintelligence of the CIA, and it stands where the barbed wire fence divided the city for 19 years.Pro Tip: You’ll find at least three other memorial gardens around Confederation House, including the Amschel Rothschild Sitting Corner where there are benches for you to rest after climbing all the stairs in this neighborhood!Great Sephardi SynagogueBuilt in 1897 to be used by Yemin Moshe residents, it is built out of the same characteristic Jerusalem stone and has been restored. This is an active synagogue where services are held.Mishkenot Sha'ananimAs the first Jewish neighborhood built outside the Old City walls, Mishkenot Sha'ananim exudes historical charm. Its cobblestone streets, galleries, and quaint cafes create a picturesque setting, inviting visitors to explore and relish the unique atmosphere that defines Yemin Moshe. The buildings have now been turned into a cultural center and a music center as well as a guest house.Pro Tip: The closest Old City gate to Yemin Moshe is Jaffa Gate so you can very easily walk from the Old City to Yemin Moshe.Restaurants and CafesYemin Moshe's culinary scene adds a flavorful touch to the neighborhood. From charming cafes serving aromatic coffee to exquisite restaurants offering a diverse range of cuisines, the dining options reflect the rich tapestry of tastes within this historic enclave.Pro Tip: On two sides of the neighborhood there are some of Jerusalem’s best parks.

Plan Your VisitLocation:Beit Eliyahu Golomb House, 23 Rothschild Street, Tel AvivOpen Times: Sunday-Thursday 08:30-16:00, Fridays and Saturdays closed.Prices: Adults 20 ILS, seniors, soldiers, and children under 18 yrs 15 ILS, disabled visitors free.Average Visit Duration: 1 hour.Special Events: There are regular special evening and afternoon programs geared towards school children and groups. On Family Day, and Israeli school holidays there are special activities for parents and children.Relevant Tours: Tours of the museum can be arranged in advance and are available in English, Hebrew, Russian, and French. The museum may be able to offer a tour outside the museum of Rothschild Blvd. If you take a private Tel Aviv tour, remember to ask your guide to stop at this interesting attraction.Golomb House - The Hagana Museum, Tel Aviv(Image source:Avishai TeicherCC BY 2.5)The literal translation of ”Hagana” is defense, but in this case, the name of the museum refers to the armed Jewish force that operated in Palestine from the 1920s to the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. The Hagana (or Haganah) fighting force protected Jewish settlements from Arab attacks in British Mandate Palestine. Following the British “white paper” that restricted immigration to Palestine, the Hagana organization assisted more than 100,000 Jews to immigrate illegally, escaping war-torn Europe. Later, the fighters of the Hagana participated in the War of Independence fighting side by side with other Jewish military groups and the newly founded Israeli Defense Force.The museum covers the formation and activities of the Haganah organization as well as its heroes, and major achievements. It is located in a house built by the Sharet family in the 1920s which was one of the first houses built in Tel Aviv. The house is the former home of Eliyahu Golomb, one of the founders of the Haganah organization. It was here that Haganah members met in secret to discuss and plan the defense of settlements and the illegal immigration of Jews to British Palestine.Pro Tip: The museum is located on one of Tel Aviv’s most beautiful boulevards, where you can see examples of Bauhaus architecture, and visit Independence Hall where Israeli independence was declared in 1948.What to See at the Hagana MuseumThree floors have been added to the original house and a different topic is covered on each floor. In addition, the museum has a large auditorium and a smaller audio-presentation room and it holds the Hagana archives. The museum displays use the latest museum technology to bring the subject matter to life. There are huge video screens, historic photographs, recreated scenes, models, and authentic artifacts.Original RoomsAt the entrance level of the house, two of the rooms have been preserved as they were in the early 1940s. These rooms are used for changing exhibitions.Eliyahu Golomb's apartment, the Hagana Museum (Image source:Hagit.B CC BY 4.0)Birth of the Defense ForceOn the first level, you can delve into the establishment of the organization in 1919, learn about its roots in Bar Giora and Hashomer, and discover the many daring missions and battles of the Hagana.Hagana on the BattlefieldAlthough their fighting methods were more guerilla warfare, this section of the museum looks at the Hagana’s battle against the British from 1945 to 1947. It also covers their weapons and brings to life the personal story of a young Palmach member and a young holocaust survivor who participated in several major battles. There is a moving audio presentation about the immigration ship, Exodus.Pro Tip: If you enjoy this museum then you might want to check out the Palmach Museum, Lehi Museum, and the Etzel Museum, all dedicated to the pre-state Jewish underground movements.War of IndependenceTake a journey through the events of the War of Independence and learn about the Hagana’s integration into the Israel Defense Force after the establishment of the State of Israel.Pro Tip: On Independence Day entrance to the museum is free, and there are special events and exhibits.Know Before You Go - Hagana MuseumThe museum is fully accessibleThe Hagana Museum is suitable for childrenDisplays are in Hebrew and EnglishA visit starts with a short film about the period

Plan Your VisitLocation: 6 Tarsat Street, Tel AvivOpen Times: Sunday-Monday closed. Tuesday 10:00-21:00, Wednesday 10:00-18:00; Thursday 10:00-21:00, Friday 10:00-14:00, and Saturday 10:00-18:00.Prices: Adults 50 ILS; students, Tel Aviv residents, and disabled visitors 40 ILS; senior citizens 25 ILS. Entrance is free for visitors under 18 years old; escorts of disabled visitors, and recruited army reservists (order 8).Average Visit Duration - 1-2 hours.Special Events: The museum hosts concerts, lectures, and special events that are advertised on its website.Notes for Visitors: Enjoy the museum’s Helena Wine Bar. The museum has audio guides in English and Hebrew, lockers, a museum store, and is fully accessible.Tours: Take a private Tel Aviv tour and include a stop at the Eyal Ofer Pavilion. If you are with a group it is possible to arrange a tour of the museum.Eyal Ofer Pavilion for Contemporary Art(Image source:Yair TalmorCC BY 3.0)This awe-inspiring museum is one of the Tel Aviv Museums of Art locations. Formerly the Helena Rubinstein Pavilion, this branch of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art is devoted to temporary exhibitions of contemporary art from Israel and abroad. The art covers a wide range of mediums from photography and paintings to installations and sculptures. The unique structure feels like a warehouse, or the framework of a building, with natural light flooding into the exhibition space. Art is displayed on the blank canvas provided by the barren walls and high ceilings of the museum building. If you’re interested in current artwork that will amaze, fascinate, and sometimes shock you, then don’t miss the Eyal Ofer Pavilion for Contemporary Art.History of the Eyal Ofer Pavilion Art MuseumThe history of the Eyal Ofer Pavilion for Contemporary Art goes hand in hand with the history of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, although the museum has changed locations several times and today there are three branches of the museum in three different locations. So it can get a bit confusing!It all started in 1932, when Tel Aviv’s first mayor, Meir Dizengoff donated his home on Rothschild Blvd. to the city for use as a museum. In 1959, the Helena Rubinstein Pavilion for Contemporary Art, designed by the Israel Prize laureate architect, Yaakov Rechter, was opened. It was intended to be the new home of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, but it was soon clear that a larger space was needed. And so in 1971, the museum was relocated from Dizengoff’s house to 27 Shaul Hamelech Street and it became the museum’s main building.At that time the pavilion was used to display miniature period rooms and a glassware collection. In 2019, the museum building needed a facelift, and a new donor, Eyal Ofer, was found to fund the renovations. The remodeling was designed by the original architect’s son. Further renovations were completed in 2023. The Eyal Ofer Pavilion for Contemporary Art continues to be an integral part of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art.Tel Aviv Museum of Art LocationsThe Tel Aviv Museum of Art includes the main building (Paulson Family Foundation Building) which holds the museum’s permanent collection of modern art plus changing exhibitions. Plus the Herta and Paul Amir Building which focuses on Israeli art and temporary exhibitions. Both these sections of the museum are on Shaul Hamelech Boulevard. Then there is the Eyal Ofer Pavilion which is in a different location in Tel Aviv on Tarsat Street.Pro Tip: The museum is located in Tel Aviv’s Cultural Square, close to other cultural venues including Israel’s national theater, Habima, and the Charles Bronfman Auditorium.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times: Wadi Farasa is part of the Petra Archaeological Park. Petra Archaeological Park's open times are 06:00-18:00 and until 16:00 in winter.Prices: Admission is 90 JD, and the Jordan Pass includes a discount to the Archaeological Park.Average Visit Duration:The average time spent in Wadi Farasa is 2 hours.Popular Times:The best time to visit Farasa Valley is in the early morning or late afternoon.Special Events: Petra by Night, an evening candlelight spectacle, takes place in front of the Treasury on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 20:30. The show features Bedouinemusic, a light show, and tea.Relevant Tours: On a tour of Petra you will see the most important and most impressive sites but to visit Farasa Valley you should take a two-day tour, to make sure you'll have time to enjoy it. With a Petra tour from Israel,you’ll see two countries on one trip.Farasa Valley is located in the Petra Archaeological Parkand borders the town of Wadi Musa on the western side of Mt. Altar. The valley (or wadi) is divided into east and west sections. Farasa Valley East holds the majority of ancientNabateanstructures but it is not the main part of Petra. Most tourists never reach Farasa Valley and instead stick to the area entered via theSiq. But for those who are willing to follow the path less traveled, Farasa Valley holds unique Nabataean tombs, temples, and other rock-hewn structures. Petra has an average of 2000 visitors a day, but few reach Wadi Farasa which offers a place of tranquility, and a chance to immerse yourself in the past.Cave-like tomb in Wadi Farasa(Image source:Michael GuntherCC BY 3.0)How to Get to Wadi FarasaThe hike through Wadi Farasa goes from the High Place of Sacrifice to Qasr al-Bint and you can start at either end. From the Street of Facades take the hike up to the High Place of Sacrifice on Jebel al-Madhbah and from there continue on the path to Wadi Farasa. Alternatively, take the stairs from behind Qasr al-Bint. Pro Tip: Starting your exploration of Wadi Farasa from Qasr al-Bint is an easier hike than if you start at the High Place of Sacrifice. The loop route from Qasr al-Bint to the High Place of Sacrifice takes a minimum of 2.5 hours.The path through Wadi Valley is not marked but there is signage at some of the structures. For this reason it is best to hire a private tour guide to explore the wadi.What to See in Farasa ValleyFrom Qasr al-Bint you will see the following structures, in this order until reaching the High Place of Sacrifice:Amud FaraounAfter about half an hour of hiking, you’ll reach a free-standing column that was probably once part of a portico to a structure that no longer exists. It is also called Pharaoh’s Column and Zibb Faraoun.Por Tip: This half-hour stretch of the hike has no shade.Broken Pediment TombThis square facade carved into the cliff and reached via rock-cut stairs features two pilasters on either side of the entrance which is topped by a broken pediment. You can enter the chamber which is 10 meters long and 8.5 meters wide. Pro Tip: Take a look inside the small door to the right of the tomb to see a burial chamber with two burial niches on the wall.Renaissance TombThe Renaissance Tomb dates back to the 2nd century AD. It is one of the most impressive structures in Wadi Farasa thanks to the tall twin columns flanking the entrance. Inside the chamber, there are rock-carved loculi (burial niches) that were never used.Renaissance Tomb, Wadi Farasa, Petra(Image source: DossemanCC BY 4.0)Roman Soldier’s TombThe Soldier’s Tomb complex was built by the Nabataeans in the 1st century AD, renovated by the Romans in 106 AD, and destroyed by an earthquake in 363 AD. The complex includes a courtyard, several cisterns, rock-cut tombs, and the remains of several two-story buildings. The tomb’s facade features three carved male figures in niches between four columns topped by a frieze and pediment. One of the figures is wearing a Romanmilitary breastplate. The central entrance leads to two chambers. The first chamber has burial niches in the walls, and the second, an antechamber is empty. The courtyard in front of the tomb had porticoes on three sides with 4-meter-high columns connected by arches.Soldier Tomb, Wadi Farasa, Petra(Image source:Jorge LáscarCC BY 2.0) Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Colorful Triclinium opposite the Soldier’s Tomb which has bright red and white striped interior walls that would have been covered with painted stucco. The Color Triclinium with its interior walls divided into columns and niches is one of the most impressive interiors in Petra.Garden TombIn the upper area of Wadi Farasa East, you’ll find the Garden Temple or Garden Triclinium. For many years experts thought the structure carved into the rock was a tomb or temple, but they now know that it was used as part of the Nabataean water system. Pro Tip: Spot the adjacent cistern that was part of the water system. Wide rock-carved stairs lead up to a flat area or platform that would have once been a courtyard. The structure’s facade measures 7.5 meters and has three openings divided by two columns and visitors can enter the two connecting chambers that were carved into the rock. Inside you can see rare Nabataean frescoes depicting local flora and fauna.Banquet HallOn the top of the rock outcrop where the Garden Tomb was carved and behind the cistern are the remaining walls of a Nabaraean banquet hall. Today the carved walls are all that remain but it would have had a vaulted ceiling. The chamber was probably used for feasts honoring those buried nearby.Lion MonumentAs you near the High Place of Sacrifice you will see the Lion Monument which may have been a drinking fountain for devotees on their way to make offerings. The “lion” represents the god al-Uzza.

Where is the Israel-Gaza Border?The Israel-Gaza border runs the length of the Gaza Strip and has two main crossings - Erez and Kerem Shalom. The Erez crossing provides access both for Palestinians crossing into Israel for work or medical treatment, and the transportation of goods. The Kerem Shalom crossing is exclusively for goods arriving from Egypt.In the far south of the Strip, which borders Israel and Egypt, is the Rafah crossing, Whilst this is also controlled by Israel, people but not cargo can pass through.Plan Your VisitLocation: Western Negev, IsraelOpening Times: By appointment and as part of a guided tourPrices: Enquire with our office for the exact cost.Average Visit Duration: Both half-day and full-day tours are available.Tours: Gaza Envelope Tours are available; however, such visits must be arranged in advance with a licensed company such as ourselvesIsrael Gaza WallThe Israel-Gaza Wall, also known as the Israel-Gaza barrier or ‘Iron Fence’ is a border built by Israel that runs the length of the Gaza Strip.Fences and walls were originally constructed as far back as 1971 and then 1994 as a means of controlling both the movement of goods and people in and out of the Strip. Until 2005, there was a one kilometer ‘buffer zone’ on either side but after Israel unilaterally disengaged from Gaza in 2005, a security upgrade was clearly necessary.Barrier against tunnels along the Israel-Gaza Strip border(Image source: IDF Spokesperson's Unit photographer CC BY 3.0)Use of State-of-the-Art TechnologyIn the years that followed, a host of state-of-the-art technologies were installed along the border, combined with the building of a seven meter high fence. These included motion sensors, watchtowers with cameras and remote-controlled machine guns, which could be used to ‘warn off’ potential infiltrators with bursts of fire, should they come too close. The wall was patrolled by battalions of soldiers and also from the air.The eventual cost of this wall/fence amounted to several billion dollars and was described by Israeli security personnel as an ‘effective hermetic solution’ and privately described it as ‘unreachable’.Hamas Attack on October 7th 2023On October 7th, which was both the Jewish sabbath and the festival of Sukkot, early in the morning Hamas militants breached the fence in a number of places. In what is now arguably a catastrophic security failure on the part of Israel, using explosives, bulldozers, pick-up tricks, drones and paragliders.With the ‘element of surprise’ on their side, Israel was caught off guard and, as a result, thousands of terrorists were able to make their way across the fence towards a number of communities in the area.In the hours that followed, a massacre took place in which approx. 1,200 people, most of them civilians, were murdered within a few hours.Today, the general consensus is that the wall was never designed with the idea of a mass invasion in mind, rather to give ‘real time indications’ when individuals were trying to come close to it.Other failures, military personnel have admitted, include an overreliance on remote-controlled aspects of security (such as communication towers, remotely-operated machine guns and surveillance cameras and hubs). These were disabled by Hamas on 7th October, quickly leaving the wall defenseless and allowing between 2,500-3,000 terrorists to stream through quickly.Places To Visit In and Around the Israel-Gaza WallKibbutz Nahal Oz and Kibbutz Nir Oz - these two kibbutzim both suffered badly in the October 7th attack, where Hamas gunmen went house to house, hunting down residents. Many individuals were tortured, mutilated andraped, before they were murdered. Others were kidnapped and some remain hostages in the Strip even now. Today, it is possible to tour these places and see the horror and destruction first-hand.Re’im Forest, site of the Nova Music Festival Massacre - It was here that, on October 7th, Hamas terrorists took the lives of approximately 364 people at a Peace Festival, most of them very young. It is possible to visit memorials to some of the victims at this site.Netivot - This is the town where a collection of burned-out and crushed vehicles sit, the result of the October 7th attack.Kobi Hill -From this vantage point, it is possible to see over the Gaza Strip.Sderot - This ‘frontier town’ was heavily impacted on October 7th and if you visit, you will be able to see bomb shelters where grenades were thrown, rockets that have since been repurposed (and in some cases even turned into art works) and the police station, which came under heavy attack and in which more than 30 Israelis were trapped inside and killed.Nahal Oz Military Base -Close to, but not part of Kibbutz Nahal Oz, this Israeli military base was also attacked on October 7th, and 66 people lost their lives here. Whilst it is not possible to enter, you can see the base from the outside.Roadside rest stations -These spots offer soldiers in the Israeli Defence Forces a break from the daily difficulties of combat, and also help out by providing them with free meals, showers, and laundry services. They are an excellent place to meet members of the IDF and talk with them openly about what their lives in uniform are really like.Nearby Places and AttractionsAshkelon national parkPrime Minister David Ben Gurion’s grave at Sde Boker, Negev desertEin Avdat nature reserveMamshit national parkShivta national parkThe Ramon Crater, Mitzpe Ramon

Saturday in Israel is unlike anywhere else. Why? Because it’s the sabbath - the Jewish Shabbat. This is the country’s official ‘day of rest’ and it’s taken very seriously, both by Orthodox Jews and those who are entirely secular.Much of the country ‘shuts down’ to give people time to rest, meet friends and family, attend services at synagogues, or simply spend some quality time with themselves.However, Tel Aviv - Israel’s liveliest city - isn’t quite like everywhere else so if you do find yourself there on Saturday, you won’t have to twiddle your thumbs, because even though no street tours are running in Tel Aviv on Shabbat, there’s still plenty going on in this ‘24/7’ metropolis.The most special day of the week, when the family gets togetherWhen Does Shabbat Begin and End in Tel Aviv?In Tel Aviv, Shabbat begins at sundown every Friday night and ends around 25 hours later so, of course, this holy day will differ according to the time of the year. In the winter, Shabbat can begin as early as 4.30 pm in December and in the summer as late as 7.30 pm in June.However, things will start to shut down a couple of hours earlier - the big supermarkets will be closed usually by 2 pm, as well as many of the stands at the famous Carmel Market (don’t despair, foodies, you can tour this incredible place from Sunday to Thursday and experience its endless culinary delights).Shabbat will end the following day (Saturday evening - called ‘motzi Shabbat’ in Hebrew) when dusk turns to night (according to the Jewish sages say you know Shabbat is over when you can see three stars in the sky).Celebrating Shabbat in Tel AvivFor observant and traditional Jews, Friday night dinner is a ‘sacred’ time of the week - a chance to catch up with family, break bread with friends or simply wind down after a hard week. Friday night services at synagogues throughout the city last for about an hour, after which people return home, make blessings over wine and bread (candles will already have been lit by the women of the house, about 30 minutes before Shabbat arrives) and sit down at the table for a leisurely dinner.In contrast, young secular Jews in Tel Aviv will often eat with their families then head out to bars and nightclubs which are open into the wee hours - Tel Aviv’s not known as the Non-Stop City for nothing!On Saturday morning, religious Jews will often attend services (that begin as early as 9 am), then head home for a Shabbat lunch. Secular Israelis will often be sleeping late and then heading out to places like Dizengoff Street (where cafes and restaurants are usually packed) for brunch. And, of course, in good weather, Tel Aviv’s beaches will be packed out with locals sunning themselves, swimming in the Mediterranean and strolling along the city’s famous Tayellet (promenade).The beach promenade in Tel Aviv is a favorite spot for the secular publicFor those who observe, Shabbat ends with the ritual of ’Havdalah’ using wine/grape juice, spices and the lighting of a braided candle. Everyone wishes each other ‘shavua tov’ (a good week to come) and ‘regular life’ in Israel resumes.If you want to celebrate Shabbat with locals, there are organizations you can reach out to, who’ll put you in touch with families - and it’s not just a chance to learn more about Jewish traditions but you’ll probably eat a fine meal too! As for a gift for your host, flowers are always welcome but if you bring chocolates/wine/cake, make sure it has a kosher label.Do Buses Run on Shabbat in Tel Aviv?The regular buses that you’ll see in Tel Aviv all week won’t be running and nor will trains. But the good news is you don’t have to rely on taxis (or your feet) to get around because a few years ago the municipality set up a ‘Shabbat bus service’.There are six lines (yellow, blue, pink, green, red, purple) that run every 20-30 minutes throughout Shabbat and - best of all - they are free.Check out times on Moovit or Google Maps - the bus stops with Shabbat buses running are marked accordingly with the specific line color!Use the Saturday bus servicesThings to Do in Tel Aviv on SaturdayThere’s a great deal to do in Tel Aviv on Saturday, depending on what kind of activities you like. Endless cafes and restaurants are open where you can wile away the hours- in fact breakfast in Tel Aviv is taken very seriously. (Just bear in mind that you might have to queue for a while, because some places are so popular they don’t even accept bookings for Shabbat).For culture vultures, Tel Aviv’s best museums and galleries are also open on Shabbat - check out exhibitions at the Tel Aviv Museum of Fine Art, head to ANU and learn about the history of the Jewish people, or even book a guided tour with the famous psychic Uri Geller at his very own museum in Jaffa!For those who love sun, sea and sand, the beaches in Tel Aviv are fabulous - they all have their own flavor - from the serene Hilton Beach (Tel Aviv’s non-official hangout for the LGBTQ community), to Frishman and Gordon beaches (where you can watch performances of Israeli dancing on Saturday mornings). Further south there’s Banana Beach, which is a huge hangout for those who like music (especially drumming) and Brazilian martial arts and Jaffa Beach which (like the Hilton) is excellent for surfing in the winter months.Finally, for those who like to walk, head for beautiful Rothschild Boulevard where there are Bauhaus buildings aplenty, or Park Hayarkon, the green lung of Tel Aviv, where you can bike, rent a paddle boat or even take a ride up in a hot air balloon and see the city from above.Park Hayarkon -The largest and most famous park in Tel AvivShopping in Tel Aviv on SaturdayAs we’ve mentioned before, all the big shopping malls and boutiques/independent stores on Dizengoff Street are closed on Saturdays but if you do want to go shopping in Tel Aviv on Shabbat, don’t fear - you do have a few options!First of all, there’s the Namal port, near Hyarakon Park, where big stores are selling popular Israeli brands (clothes by Castro and Comme Il Faut for adults and upmarket Shilav for children), as well as sports shops if you need gear for hitting the beach.Sarona Market is open seven days a week -once home to a community of German Templars, its lovely renovated buildings now house small stores, and there’s a gourmet market as well, where you can pick up specialty cheeses, wines, chocolates and eat an excellent lunch,South of the city, head to Neve Tzedek, where lots of small shops selling jewelry, high-end clothing and artwork are open on the main Shabazi Street - afterward, grab a bite at Dallal Bakery, Meshek Barzilay (fantastic vegan food) or gelato at Anita, and take a stroll around the Suzanne Dellal Performing Arts Centre.Finally, don’t forget Jaffa - the famousFlea Market (Shuk haPishpeshim) might be shut on Shabbat, but some of the art galleries and small stores selling clothing, home accessories, and designer furniture are open. Old Jaffa is also full of bars, cafes and restaurants, not just around the market but over in the harbor and when the weather is good (which is for much of the year) the area is packed full of locals, walking, fishing, drinking coffee and enjoying the fantastic views.The Jaffa Flea Market offers a unique blend of authentic shopping and diverse cuisineTel Aviv on a Saturday offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, with activities to suit all tastes. Whether you're soaking up the sun on its beautiful beaches, indulging in brunch at a bustling café, exploring world-class museums, or simply wandering through its vibrant streets, there’s always something to do. While Shabbat slows down many parts of Israel, Tel Aviv pulses with energy, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the city’s dynamic culture on the Jewish day of rest.

Travelers to Israel who base themselves in Jerusalem will want to see the country. Although Israel is small it is still over 150km-200km from Jerusalem, depending on where in the Galilee you want to visit. This journey can take about 2.5-3 hours. If you have booked an Israel package tour covering the country then you will have a way of getting to the various destinations across Israel. If traveling independently you will have to figure out the best way to see the Galilee from Jerusalem. Here are a few suggestions to help you plan your Galilee excursion from Jerusalem.Sailing on "Jesus Boats", Sea of Galilee. Photo credit: © ShutterstockUse Public Transport to Go from Jerusalem to the GalileeThe distance from Jerusalem to Galilee is approximately 150 km depending on the route you take. You can get a bus from Jerusalem's central bus station to Tiberias, on the edge of the Sea of Galilee. The journey takes about 2-3 hours. Tiberias is a good place to base yourself and from there you can either hike around the Sea of Galilee or take further buses to the various locations. If you plan to make it a day trip then this could be problematic. You will spend much of your time waiting for buses and traveling on buses. You will have to leave very early in the morning if you plan 3 hours there and 3 hours back by bus. It doesn’t leave you much time on a day trip from Jerusalem to Galilee. Alternatively, you could make it a longer trip and stay overnight. It is advisable to research the places you want to visit and figure out how you will get public transport from place to place in Galilee before you actually leave Jerusalem.Traveling by bus. Photo by Christian Wiediger on UnsplashGalilee Tours from JerusalemIn addition to package tours that cover several days, several destinations, and accommodation there are also day tours from Jerusalem to Galilee. If you prefer not to travel on a package tour then day tours to difficult-to-reach or distant locations are the perfect solution. You could join a group day tour from Jerusalem to Galilee or even take a private tour and tailor-make your itinerary. Tours from Jerusalem to Galileeinclude pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or a convenient location in Jerusalem. The tour then takes you north in air-conditioned transportation and stops at several of Galilee’s famous locations. The tours usually have a theme, for example, Christian landmarks around the Sea of Galilee; Galilee and Golan tours, or Jewish sites in Northern Israel. There are also Galilee tours from Jerusalem that include places likeCaesarea,Safed,Haifa,Nazareth, Acre, or Rosh Hanikra.Art gallery in Safed, Israel. Photo credit: © ShutterstockRent a Car to Travel from Jerusalem to GalileeHaving your own car can be a very convenient way of traveling but it suits only a certain type of traveler. You’ll have to negotiate unknown roads; cope with Israeli drivers and find parking once you reach the larger cities like Tiberias, Nazareth, Acre, and Safed. The advantage is that you can pick and choose where to stop and what to see. The disadvantage can be the price and the fact that you will have your attention on the road instead of being able to sit back and enjoy the journey. Without a guide, you will have to know which places to visit and how to get there. Car rental is readily available in Israel but be sure you have included all the extras and taken into account all the restrictions. Check what time you can return the car as you will be traveling quite a distance and may not be back in Jerusalem until late. Some car rental companies in Israel close at 5 pm and there are different hours on Shabbat and national holidays.Traveling with a rented car. Photo by Scott Osborn on UnsplashVisit Galilee LandmarksThere are a plethora of Christian sites in Galilee where Jesus grew up and where he spent his ministry traveling from village to village preaching the word of God. The Christian sites of Galilee should not be missed! They have great biblical significance and are surrounded by Galilee's stunning scenery. A good way to plan a trip to the Galilee that covers all Christian sites is to spend at least two days in the region. If your time is limited then spend a day touring just the Christian highlights along the shores of the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret in Hebrew). Your trip to Galilee will probably start with a drive up Israel's Mediterranean coast past attractions like Caesarea and Haifa. Turning inland you'll travel through the Valley of Armageddon (Megiddo), where the prophesized Final Battle is predicted to take place during the End of Times. From here you have a view of Mount Tabor, the site of the Transfiguration.Traveling over rolling green hills and past lush farmlands you'll look down on the Sea of Galilee nestled in an idyllic valley. Starting at the southern end of the sea move up the western shore past the city of Tiberias. The Sea of Galilee is where Jesus walked on water (John 6:19-21) and where he calmed the storm (Matthew 8:23-26).The Church at Mount of Beatitudes, Galilee, Israel.Photo credit: © ShutterstockThe Most Famous Christian Sites in GalileeStop in Magdala, once a small fishing village and home to Mary Magdalene. Travel a little further along the shore to Ginosar, a modern-day kibbutz in the shadow of Mount Arbel. The kibbutz is home to the Yigal Allon Museum which holds the Jesus Boat. During the 1986 drought, the Sea of Galilee's water level dropped dramatically revealing the remains of this 1st-century fishing boat buried in the bed of the lake. The fishing boat would have been the same kind of fishing vessel used by the disciples. The Bible tells us how Jesus crosses the water, landing in Ginosar where the people touched the fringe of His cloak and were cured of their ills.One of the most delightful Christian sites along the shore of the Galilee is Tabgha, the site of the miracle of the multiplication of loaves and fish. Originally a 4th-century chapel was built here to mark the site of the miracle. A Byzantine Nile-themed floor mosaic has been preserved in the Church of Multiplication along with a large rock where Jesus may have stood as he performed the miracle.Nearby is the Church of the Primacy of St. Peter; the traditional site of Christ's 4th appearance after his resurrection (John 21:1-24) and where he conferred primacy on Simon Peter giving him leadership over the church. Another incredible Christian site on the shore of the Sea of Galilee is the Mt. of Beatitudes crowned by a unique church, designed by Antonio Barluzzi in the 1930s to mark the place where Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount.Korazim National Park, Upper Galilee. Photo credit: © Yuval Gassar. Published with permission of the Israel Nature and Parks AuthorityAlso visit Capernaum, once the hometown of Peter, Andrew, John, and James. Here Jesus based himself during his ministry; exorcised demons and healed the slave of a Roman centurion. The main Christian sites in Capernaum today are the excavated Byzantine village; the remains of a 1st-century synagogue and an octagonal church built around the remains of what is believed to have been Saint Peter's home.If you'd like to venture to the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee, at the foot of the Golan Heights you can stop at Kursi, the site of the miracle of the swine (Luke 8:26-39). Here you can see the ruins of a large Byzantine monastery and church and see the remains of a 5th-century church mosaic floor. If you are with a tour you will probably also venture up into the Golan Heights to visit places like the Shalom Observatory; former Syrian fortifications and Katzrin where there is an excavated and reconstructed Talmudic-era (4th-8th century) village.At the southernmost point of the sea where the River Jordan flows out of the Kinneret is the baptismal site Yardenit. Tours stop at Yardenit where it is possible to be baptized in the Jordan as Jesus was. Also visit Kfar Cana, famed as the site where Jesus attended a wedding and changed water into wine. The 19th century Wedding Church commemorates this miracle and encompasses the remains of Byzantine mosaics from an earlier 5th-6th-century church. The church holds two ancient stone jars similar to those used to hold wine during the biblical era.The easiest way to see these Christian sites is to take a one or two-day tour like the Sea of Galilee, Cana, Magdala & Mt. of Beatitudes Tour.Yardenit baptismal site, near the Sea of Galilee.Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Shawarma - the Middle Eastern food that no carnivore can eat and ever forget! Traditionally made using spiced meats (think chicken, beef, veal) stacked up on a rotisserie, then shaved off as it rotates, this delicious Levantine food is the perfect lunch snack, grab-and-go dinner option, or 3 am snack when you have hunger pangs after a night on the town.Usually served in a wrap/pita, but sometimes on a plate, it’s tender and juicy and the meat comes with accompaniments - salads, occasionally eggplant, perhaps rice, even fries, and then tahini or yoghurt sauce drizzled over it. Trust us, this is Israeli street food at its best. And the good news is that you can find it in every neighborhood in Tel Aviv.Pita ShawarmaHow Much is Shawarma in Israel?Tel Aviv’s not the cheapest place to eat out but a great way to make your buck go further is by gobbling up delicious street food. Typically, it’s going to cost you anywhere from 35 to 60 NIS ($10-16 US) for a great shawarma in one of the city’s many eateries, but the good news is that portions here are big and it’s going to seriously fill you up.Shawarma on a plate, one of three options (in a pita, in a flatbread, or on a plate)How to Make Shawarma?Don’t be put off, because It’s easier than you think to make shawarma. And if you thought chicken was boring, then this recipe will make you think again.Let’s start with the spice mixture. You’ll need turmeric, cumin, coriander garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper - adjust the measurements according to your preference. Mix them together, add in some Greek yoghurt then take this marinade and cover your boneless and skinless chicken thighs (or breasts).Leave for 3-4 hours in a zip lock bag, to let all the flavors combine, then fry or roast the chicken. Cook through and when it’s golden brown, let it cool, before slicing it up thinly then placing it in a pita or a wrap, Add your salad, and finish off with a heap of tahini and some chopped parsley atop. It really is that easy!Where to Eat Shawarma in Tel Aviv and JaffaThere are so many places to find great shawarma in Tel Aviv, whether you’re looking for something simple, something kosher or something gourmet-style! Here are seven of the spots you shouldn’t miss, if you’re looking for something tasty and filling that won’t put too much of a dent in your wallet…1. Yashka, Dizengoff Street 105 (corner Frishman)Many say this is the best shawarma in Tel Aviv (a few say it’s ‘Out of this world’) and the fact that it’s always busy is a good sign. Like many fast food joints in the city, you pay first, then give your receipt to the guys behind the counter, who will make up your order.A winning combination of fluffy laffa (the Iraqi flatbread used for wrapping) and succulent chicken or veal means this is a real ‘go-to’ spot on Dizengoff Street. If you’re extra hungry, order a side of their delicious falafel. The only downside is that there’s very limited seating - but there’s always ‘grab and go’ so you can head down to Frishman Beach, which is less than a five-minute walk from Yashka.2. Jasmino, Allenby Street 99 (corner Ahad Ha’am)With great prices and super fresh ingredients, get yourself down to Jasmino at lunchtime (there’s always a queue, but it will be full of locals and Israelis who love to chat) for juicy shawarma. It’s a typical ‘hole in the wall’ lunch joint but with a twist - all the meat is chargrilled on a barbeque and diners talk about how much they love the taste of the charcoal as they bite into chunks of chicken, veal and lamb.And for those more adventurous, why not order the brains or the sweetbreads? Whatever you choose, there's either tahini or Amba (a spicy mango sauce) to finish it off. All you need to do afterward is and find a bench outside to enjoy it since there’s no seating.One Google reviewer compared this shawarma to Beethoven’s Symphony Number 5 (‘Unique”) and another commented, “this is more than street food; it’s food for life!”Essentially, Jasmine is a spot that lives up to its reputation so don’t miss this one.3. Mifgash Rambam, Rambam Street 3 (corner Ha Carmel)A moment from the main street of the city’s Carmel Market (huge, busting, vibrant, and the perfect place to take a Tel Aviv food tour) you’ll find Mifgash Rambam, which really showcases the ‘gourmet street food’ conception.What makes it so special? Well, a few things. Firstly, before the ‘main event,’ you’ll be served with some starter plates, and they really are fantastic, particularly the chickpea salad.Then comes the main event - perfectly balanced shawarma, served in a pita, loaded up either with beef and chicken (an interesting combo) or lamb and beal, nicely layered, served with salad and drizzled with tzatziki, tahini and Amba. Oh - and they’ll throw in some fries for good measure.Even better, there’s outdoor seating, so you won’t have to look for a bench! The general consensus? “Sensational”. Indeed, one Google reviewer said it was so good that after he’d had it for lunch, he came back the same evening and ordered it again!4. Shawarma Touro Premium TLV, Dizengoff Street (corner Bar Kochva)Generous portions, excellent salads and clean bathrooms (not always a given in takeaway joints!) There’s a reason shawarma Touro Premium has a reputation for its menu. With fluffy laffa bread, melt-in-the-mouth meat slices and an array of salads and condiments you won’t find at your average shawarma spot, you’re assured of fair prices too (which in a city as expensive as Tel Aviv is always welcome).Touro Premium serves both chicken and veal shawarma, (ask if you want a mixture) and don’t forget to ask for fried onions (slightly caramelized - yum!) and spicy eggplant if you’re feeling adventurous. The owner really cares about the business and it shows in every detail, from the freshness of the food to the friendly and professional staff (who all speak good English).5. Haj Kalil, Shivtei Israel 91, Jaffa (corner Avodat Israel)You can't visit Tel Aviv without spending time in beautiful, ancient Jaffa and once you’ve wandered the Artists Quarter, explored the famous flea market and strolled around the harbor, get yourself over to Haj Kalil for some local Arabic fare where they have both an ‘express shawarma’ area for takeaway and a dining area if you want to sit down and make a proper meal of it.As well as the thinly-shaved slices of chicken in pita, if you sit down you can order beef skewers, grilled lamb chops and a range of fish dishes and the meal comes with complimentary ‘mezze’ - dish upon dish of fresh salads which could fill you up on their own. They also have a wonderful knafeh on the dessert menu and whilst they don’t serve alcohol, the pomegranate juice is outstanding.A little on the pricey side but well worth it.6. Ha Kosem, Shlomo Ha Melech Street 1 (corner King George)Ha Kosem has almost legendary status in Tel Aviv, serving up food that is so delicious and well-priced that you’ll often have to queue for 15-20 minutes at lunchtime (trust us, it’s worth it). In the heart of Tel Aviv, it’s particularly popular for its falafel but that doesn’t mean you can’t satisfy your shawarma carving here.Whether you ask for it small or large (the large comes on a plate that will easily feed two people) the crispy meat, fried eggplant slices, and fantastic salad options (they’re made regularly, in front of your eyes, so you know they’re fresh) will have your drooling. And whilst it’s not the cheapest place in Tel Aviv, this is shawarma you won’t forget in a hurry.In our opinion, Ha Kosem is a place you have to visit when you’re in Tel Aviv(even more than once, because the menu is so varied). As one reviewer commented, “Ten stars will not be enough - everything that I’ve tried was extraordinary.”7. Dabush, Ibn Gvirol Street (corner Zeitlin)Finally, another Tel Aviv eatery to check out is Dabush, today one of the most popular shawarma chains in Israel. It’s a casual place, overlooking Rabin Square, and is open from lunchtime until late at night, turning out fresh food regularly. Using both chicken, lamb and turkey meat (seasoned well and also with a hint of cinnamon) it’s well priced and the staff are friendly and helpful too.Dabush has a pretty basic menu - order a pita (small) or a laffa (large) and help yourself to their complimentary side salads and spicy pickled hot peppers. If you're really hungry, order some french fries as well! This isn’t a fancy joint and there’s limited seating, but it will certainly fulfill your cravings, especially in the wee small hours, if you’ve had a few drinks and find yourself somewhat inebriated and completely starving.Satisfy your shawarma cravings with our guide to Tel Aviv’s best spots for this mouthwatering Middle Eastern dish. Discover where to find the juiciest, most flavorful shawarma in the city, plus tips on how to make your own at home. Whether you're a street food lover or just looking for a quick, delicious bite, this guide has you covered.

Vibrant, colorful, youthful and dynamic, few people who make it to Tel Aviv don’t fall in love with the city. Whether you’re dying for some beach time, a foodie who can’t wait to taste some new flavors, an architecture lover who’s curious about the city’s Bauhaus history, or someone who simply loves wandering the streets and capturing the people on them, Tel Aviv offers endless photographic opportunities.Even better, Tel Aviv’s a relatively small city by world standards, and perfect for walking (unlike hilly Jerusalem, it’s flat!).From Levantine food markets and quirky independent cafes to renovated buildings and dreamy beach sunsets, Instagram lovers will be in their element, with perfect captures on every street corner.View of Kedumim Square and St. Peter's church in old JaffaSo if you’re traveling to Israel for the first time, you’re a big fan of the ‘Gram and can’t wait to find some of the best photo locations in Tel Aviv, to make your feed even more exciting and colorful, here are ten spots you really can’t afford to miss:1. Old Jaffa - The Flea Market, the Artist’s Quarter and the HarbourTop of our list - without a doubt - has to be Old Jaffa. Ancient, magical, charming and achingly beautiful, down every small side street and tiny alley you’ll find a new photo opportunity. Jaffa’s history stretches back to Biblical times and as you wander around, you’ll see many old Arabic-style houses, built in the Ottoman era, with stone walls, ornamental windows and carved wood latticework.Rummage at the famous Jaffa flea market (the Shuk ha Pishpeshim) and snap vendors selling their wares, head onto the Artist’s Quarter (and pop into some of the many studios), stroll through Abrasha Park (don’t forget to photograph St. Peter’s Church and the ‘Gates of Faith’ statue) then head down to the port, where you’ll see fishermen patiently sitting with their rods.Jaffa’s so special that the best way to see it really is with someone who knows its history - so why not consider taking a ‘Perfect Tel Aviv Walking Tour’ which is an excellent introduction to the areaA view of Jaffa Old City Port2. Carmel Market - Food Stalls GaloreThe Carmel Market is Tel Aviv’s largest and liveliest market and, in the heart of the city, is a must-see for any visitor to Tel Aviv, not to mention Instagram lovers, because of its endless photographic opportunities, in the shape of hundreds of different stalls, selling everything from fruit and vegetables to local cheeses and breads, and from oriental spices, olives, halva and typical Israeli street food.The market itself is nestled in the Yemenite Quarter (‘Kerem ha Teimanim’) which is a joy to stroll in and take pictures of as well - it’s full of tiny streets, small houses and quirky cafes, bakeries and local eateries, as well as a short walk from Jerusalem Beach. And for anyone who loves food, don’t think twice and book a Carmel Market Food Tour, where you’ll learn all about the history and culture of this terrific spot.Shuk HaCarmel, the most popular market in Tel Aviv3. Frishman Beach - Late AfternoonIt’s truly difficult to pick Tel Aviv’s most Instagrammable beach, because there are so many of them - from surfers at the Hilton Beach to Israeli folk dancers at Gordon Beach and Friday afternoon ‘Shabbat drummers’ at Banana Beach, there’s no shortage of perfect photo opportunities - from sunrise to sunset.But of all the beaches in Tel Aviv, there’s one we love - Frishman. With its powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and lovely promenade on which you can stroll, cycle, or Segway, it’s probably the most popular beach in Tel Aviv, and with good reason. The beach cafes there are a fantastic place to order a coffee or lemonade and stare at the Mediterranean before golden hour sets in and you can grab the perfect capture.People enjoy a sunny day on Tel Aviv’s Frishman beach4. Neve Tzedek- Charming BackstreetsNeve Tzedek is, arguably, one of Israel’s loveliest areas and has an illustrious history - it was the first Jewish neighborhood to be constructed outside of Jaffa (in 1883) and in Hebrew, it means ‘The Place of Justice.’ Packed with tiny, winding streets, beautifully restored houses and plenty of upmarket boutiques, cafes and top restaurants, it’s a popular area for tourists to visit.Nevertheless, if you wander its backstreets, you’ll soon realize that its reputation for being ‘a village within a city’ is well-deserved and if you step off the main drag - Shabazi Street - and hit the sidestreets, you may well hear the birds singing! With a rich history and culture, Neve Tzedek is a lovely place to stroll aimlessly and opportunities to find your perfect Instagram capture will not evade you!The streets of Neve Tzedek5. Nachalat Binyamin- Eclectic Street ArtNext door to the Carmel Market lies the buzzy pedestrianized street of Nachalat Binyamin, which is home to a twice-weekly arts and crafts market (where everything is made by locals), beautiful old buildings that have been wonderfully renovated, and plenty of cafes and shops. But the area is home to something else too - some very cool street art!Many of the streets are chock-a-block with murals, colored art and street graffiti, from up-and-coming works by Dede Bandaid to established artists like Rami Meiri (look out for the mural that features two friends standing on a balcony together one playing the violin, the other the accordion). Nor should Instagrammers miss some of the stand-out pieces such as ‘Bubble Girl’. ‘Theodor Herzl Dreaming’ and ‘In Complete.’Real street art aficionados might want to take a Tel Aviv street art tour, to understand the history and politics behind a lot of these pieces.Nachalat Binyamin Street market6. Rothschild Boulevard - Bauhaus GlamourRothschild Boulevard is one of Tel Aviv’s most glamorous walkways, tree-lined, tranquil, full of cyclists, locals, top Tel Aviv restaurants and European-inspired architecture in the form of Bauhaus buildings. This ‘international style’ which came out of 1920’s Germany means Tel Aviv is the Bauhaus capital of the world and thus known as ‘The White City’.A typical Bauhaus building (which always places form above function) will have classic modernist elements - think curved balconies and ribbon windows (Corbusier style) to white exteriors and outdoor communal spaces. This part of Tel Aviv is older than others, a more historic area, and wandering Rothschild and the surrounding streets provides endless Instagram moments.Meir Dizengoff statue, at the Rothschild Boulevard7. Dizengoff Square - the Iconic Dizengoff FountainDizengoff Street is Tel Aviv’s most famous walkway and in its heart sits a square that is home to the iconic Dizengoff Fountain. Designed by the Israeli architect Yaakov Agam, the municipality has put a lot of time and money into renovating the square and setting up shady areas, where you can pull up a free chair and start snapping.Not only is it the perfect place to find ‘cityscape’ opportunities for Instagram, but there are some beautifully restored Bauhaus buildings on the square, notably the striking Cinema Hotel. Once a cinema (there are artifacts from the 1950s, including a projector, which you can see in its lobby), it now offers ‘boutique’ accommodation and its curved white balconies will make your followers swoon. Head up to the rooftop if you want fabulous urban views.Aerial view on Dizengoff Square, Tel Aviv8. Bialik Square - City HallBeyond Dizengoff, you’ll find some beautiful squares in Tel Aviv and one of them that’s perfect for photographing is Bialik. It’s a lovely old street in Tel Aviv, where many of the European Jews who arrived in the early 20th century set up home, and in recent years the area has transformed, with lovely renovated residential buildings and the beautiful Bialik Square at the bottom.Home to the city’s first town hall, today this beautiful building is a museum (after you’ve finished photographing, feel free to pop inside and enjoy the free exhibition, then grab a cup of coffee in their garden cafe). Bialik Street is also where you’ll find the Nachman Bialik House (a pioneer of modern Israeli poetry) and the Rubin Museum (a Romanian-corn artist who drew landscapes of the Holy Land, today referred to as the ‘Eretz Israel’ style). They both afford great Instagram captures.Exterior view of the Beit Ha'Ir museum, the old city hall building of Tel Aviv, located on Bialik Street9. The Namal Port - Mediterranean VistasIf you’re looking for some classic Tel Aviv waterfront photos, then head north to the Namal (the Hebrew word for ‘port’). In the last two decades, it’s undergone enormous renovation and now is an incredibly popular spot for locals and tourists alike, boasting all kinds of restaurants, nightclubs, shops, and cafes that can keep you busy for hours.With a chilled vibe and distinctive wooden deck that acts as a promenade, a gourmet indoor market (and local farmer’s market every Friday morning), at the weekend it’s particularly buzzy (it’s ideal for young families since there’s a ‘Skyjump’ for older kids and carousel for the infants, it’s the perfect place to find that special Tel Aviv Instagram spot.View of the Tel Aviv PortFinally, if you’re traveling to Israel and want to make the most of your time in the country, we offer a wide range of day trips, which can take you from Jerusalem and the Dead Sea/Masada fortress to the Crusader city of Akko, the pastoral hills of the Galilee and the lush and dramatic Golan Heights.

Now and again, there’s nothing like a bit of retail therapy to put a smile on your face, and no more so than in Tel Aviv, which has an incredible range of markets, boutiques, malls, and small, independent stores where there’s little you can’t find - whether it’s a swimsuit and floppyhat for a day at the beach, casual wear for an evening stroll on the promenade, next to the Mediterranean, or something stylish and glamorous for an evening out at one of Tel Aviv’s top restaurants.From upmarket stores on Dizengoff Street and Kikar Hamedina to the markets of Carmel and Jaffa, prepare to be wowed by an eclectic mix of local designs and international brands. Because that’s the great thing about shopping in Tel Aviv - the city is home to many young, up-and-coming designers who are always pushing the envelope when it comes to style and creativity.Here’s our rundown of places that every fashionista should check out when making a trip to the White City…Shopping in Neve Tzedek First on the list has to be a trip to Neve Tzedek, one of Tel Aviv’s most picturesque and charming neighborhoods, perfect for a morning coffee, a light lunch, an afternoon stroll - and some shopping! The entire area, but particularly the main Shabazi Street, is full of tiny stores that sell things so pretty you won’t be able to stop yourself from reaching for your wallet.Pop into Numero 13 (selling upmarket European labels), Fine Lab (local designers Moraver and Abromavich are famed for their organic creations, which only come in black, white, and grey!), and Badim which sells gorgeous textiles in gloriously bright colors - the carpets and bedspreads are just lovely. Finally, if you love jewelry, check out Ivshin, which is full of one-of-a-kind contemporary pieces - bracelets, earrings, and necklaces which are the perfect gift for a close friend or a way to treat yourself.Boaz Kashi Jewelry at Shalom Shabazi Street in the Neve Tzedek neighborhoodShopping in Dizengoff Street Dizengoff is Tel Aviv’s main street, running down the city from north to south, close to top beaches, eateries, and a wealth of small stores. Named after the first mayor of the city, Meir Dizengoff, from the 1940s onwards it’s always been a popular hang-out for those who like cafes but it’s also home to some fine shopping, particularly if you’re looking to buy at small stores.Head to Naama Bezalel for high-quality, tailor-made garments that you can wear to elegant events or Blueberry (which has incredible staff, who take such a personal interest in customers and their clothing needs that it makes the experience special). The Old North of the area is home to a lot of bridal stores (should you be planning your special day) and further down, on the corner of King George, you’ll find the famous Dizengoff Mall which can keep you busy for hours.On a non-fashion note, if you like stylish objects then pop into the Bauhaus Centre (where you can pick up all manner of items relating to this very popular architectural style - from coffee table books and mugs to prints and jewelry).Dizengoff StreetShopping at the Jaffa Flea MarketIf there’s one place you have to go shopping when you’re visiting Israel’s cultural capital, make it Jaffa. This beautiful, ancient port town, just up the road from central Tel Aviv, has an incredible history that stretches back thousands of years, to when Jonah fled God on a ship and ended up in the belly of a whale as punishment.Taking a walking tour of Jaffa is an excellent way to get a sense of it - you’ll see the harbor, the Artist’s Quarter (where locals sell their paintings in small studios on cobbled streets), and Abrasha Park, with a Wishing Bridge, the beautiful St, Peter’s Church and stunning views of the Mediterranean.You'llAnd when it comes to shopping, just head to the Jaffa Flea Market (the ‘Shuk ha Pishpeshim’) which is a treasure trove of antiques, vintage items, second-hand clothes, and all kinds of jewelry. It’s great for those to love to poke around and bargain a bit - and the surrounding area also has boutiques and small stores where you can find shoes, bags, hats, and everything else to make your outfit look stylish.The Flea Market in the Old City of Jaffa, one of the most favorite places for shopping in Tel AvivShopping at Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel) Tel Aviv markets are pretty legendary and none more so than the Carmel Market (‘Shuk ha Carmel’) - the bustling and lively spot downtown where locals go to pick up fresh produce and tourists flock for Israeli street food, cute cafes, and busy bars. Friday afternoon, before the sabbath comes in, is particularly busy so be prepared to jostle.The Carmel is a great place to pick up well-priced wide-brimmed hats and Brazilian-style sandals, t-shirts, canvas bags, and everything else you could want if you’re heading to the beach. But it’s also a great place to shop for spices and sweet and local produce - there’s so much on offer that it can be overwhelming so feel free to ask the stall owners for advice. And for budding chefs, consider taking a food tour of the Carmel Market, to get an idea of what Middle Eastern cuisine is all about.Next door to the Carmel Market you’ll find Nahalat Binyamin, a beautiful pedestrianized street that holds a bi-weekly arts and crafts market. Everything there is made by hand by local Israeli artists - from jewelry, paintings, and wooden toys to Judaica (think Shabbat tablecloths, mezuzahs, and Hanukkah lamps) to pretty handmade garments.When you shop here, not only are you supporting small businesses but chances are you’ll end up picking something unique. Look out for the metal kaleidoscopes, the ‘Sesame Street-style’ puppets, and the watercolors of beautiful spots across Israel (from the hills of Jerusalem to the mountains in the Galilee) and if you’re a sucker for bathtime, then the handmade soaps are delightful.Halva with different flavors and fillings In one of the stalls of the Carmel MarketShopping at Sarona Market Tel AvivThe Sarona Market sits in an area that was once the home of German Templars! Today, all of the original buildings have been beautifully restored - many of them have restaurants outside - but Sarona’s main attraction is an indoor culinary market, outside of which are beautiful landscaped gardens and views of the city’s business district.Inside, there are endless gourmet offerings and plenty of street food too - from baked goods and deli fare to amazing cheeses, spices, and delectable ice cream. Sarona is also home to some excellent restaurants, including Claro (which serves upmarket seasonal plates) and the Tasting Room, where you can sample all kinds of Israeli wines, accompanied by some excellent bar food.Sarona Market - A large indoor culinary marketShopping at the Tel Aviv Port (‘Namal’)The Tel Aviv port (known as the ‘Namal’ in Hebrew) is an extremely popular destination for locals and tourists alike, boasting a long wooden boardwalk (perfect for strolling along the sea). a wide variety of cafes and restaurants, some very trendy nightclubs, and plenty of shops in which you can browse.In the different hangars, you’ll find a variety of labels - Steve Madden (the well-known creative shoe designer), ‘Comme Il Faut’ (which is a clothing business designed by women for women), and Shilav (selling the most adorable baby clothes). There’s also a nicely laid-out indoor food market where you can pick up smoothies, fresh pasta, and seafood galore, and every Friday from 9 am until 2 pm there’s a local farmer’s market.View of the Tel Aviv Port (Namal)Shopping Malls: TLV Fashion Mall, Gan Ha’ir and Ramat AvivTel Aviv malls are the place to hit if you’re looking for luxury brands and upmarket stores. The TLV Fashion Mall, on Carlebach Street, is popular with younger shoppers, with a lot of international names such as Zara, COS, and H&M, combined with Israeli designers such as Daniella Lehavi.Close to Kikar Rabin, you’ll find the Gan Ha’ir, which is an elegant, semi-open-air mall boasting over 100 stores, and plenty of cafes besides. Here you’ll find Intima (full of lovely lingerie), Max Mara (elegant Italian fashion), and Golf (one of the largest fashion names in Israel today).Or jump on a bus and in fifteen minutes you’ll be at the Ramat Aviv mall, a rather bourgeois spot where you’ll see lots of ladies who lunch. Whether it’s Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein that you’re after or Armani Exchange, and ‘fast-fashion’ Bershka, you’ll find it here.Buy from the best!Final Thoughts: Embrace the Shopping Diversity of Tel AvivTel Aviv's shopping scene is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself. From chic boutiques and bustling markets to upscale malls and unique local finds, the city caters to every fashion taste and preference. Whether you're searching for high-end designer pieces, local fashion gems, or vintage treasures, Tel Aviv offers an array of options to satisfy your retail cravings. Enjoy exploring these vibrant shopping destinations and make the most of your fashionable adventure in this stylish city.

Thanks to Israel’s compact size it is possible to cover the whole country in about a week. Of course you won’t see everything but a week is long enough to see the highlights and get a good overview of the whole country. If a week is all you have then you could either take a guided tour each day to a different part of the country or do it alone. Traveling independently the best way to get around is by renting a car although you could also do it using public transport. Here is an idea of a typical 7 day Israel itinerary.Discover Israel in One WeekIsrael, a land where ancient history meets modern vibrancy, offers travelers a unique blend of cultural, religious, and natural wonders. From its bustling cities to its serene landscapes, the country is packed with must-see sights that can be explored within a week. Whether you’re drawn to the rich heritage of Jerusalem, the sun-soaked beaches of Tel Aviv, or the tranquil shores of the Dead Sea, this 7-day itinerary will guide you through the highlights of this diverse and captivating destination. Get ready to embark on a journey through time, culture, and unparalleled beauty in Israel.Day 1 - Tel Aviv: Begin Your Adventure in Israel’s Dynamic Coastal CityTel Aviv promenadeArriving at Ben Gurion rent a car and make your way to one of the excellent Tel Aviv hotels. Depending on what time you arrive you can start exploring the city. Check out the beachfront and maybe have an iconic meal of falafel or shawarma.Take a walk through the historic neighborhood of Neve Tzedek to see the Bauhaus architecture or the hustle and bustle of Tel Aviv’s open-air "shuks" touring the Carmel Market. If you are into art Tel Aviv has an excellent Art Museum otherwise you might like to visit HaTachana, a restored historic train station that has been converted into a shopping and entertainment venue.Sarona is another shopping complex created out of a number of buildings from an 1871 German Templer colony. Of course, there is the old Port of Jaffa; the perfect place to end your first day in Israel at one of the seafood restaurants overlooking the Tel Aviv coast.Suggested Overnight: Tel AvivOptional tours for this day:Tel Aviv Walking Tour,Tel Aviv Food Tour,Tel Aviv Graffiti Tour,Jaffa Walking TourSee allTel Aviv ToursDay 2 - Caesarea, Haifa, Acre: Discover Israel’s Coastal and Historic GemsTheBahai Gardens, HaifaLeave Galilee and make your way to the west with a Caesarea, Acre, and Rosh Hanikra Tour stopping at the ancient city of Acre (Akko) which was a strategic port city during the Crusader, Mamluk, and Ottoman periods. The old city of Acre has survived and has a lively market plus cavernous underground structures built by the Crusaders. The city is also home to some picturesque mosques and a quaint port. Continue on a little further south through Haifa where you can stop to see the famous Baha'i Gardens. These gardens or the Hanging Terrace Gardens cascade down Mount Carmel is 19 terraces planted with brightly colored flowers and shrubs. At the top of the gardens is the gold-domed Shrine of Bab and an observation terrace where you can look out over Haifa Bay. A little further south is the ancient city of Caesarea.Today modern Caesarea is a prestigious residential city and home to the rich and famous but along the coast are the ancient remains of a former Roman port city. The old city was built by Herod the Great in c.25-13BC and many structures have remained including a perfectly preserved Roman amphitheater, aqueducts, Roman mansions, and from the later Crusader-era there are fortress walls and other structures. Continue on to Rosh haNikra to see the stunning limestone grottoesSuggested Overnight:JerusalemOptional tour for this day:Caesarea, Acre and Rosh Hanikra TourSee allCaesarea ToursDay 3 - Galilee: Explore the Lush and Historic Northern IsraelGreek Orthodox Monastery of the Twelve Apostles in Capernaum, GalileeMake an early start on day two and follow the coastal road north all the way to Galilee. Along the way, you will pass many interesting cities and villages and you will have the Mediterranean Sea on your left most of the way.On the journey north, you will also see some of Israel’s finest farmlands and pass through breathtaking greenery. The area around the Sea of Galilee is one of the most beautiful in the country. There is lush vegetation, historic and religious sites as well as the gorgeous sea where you can swim, do water sports, and go on short cruises. This is also the area where Jesus spent his ministry years going from village to village preaching. There are several gorgeous churches commemorating biblical sites around the Sea of Galilee. Base yourself in Tiberias then drive around the Sea of Galilee visiting the Mount of Beatitudes (site of the Sermon on the Mount); the House of Peter at Capernaum; theChurch of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes and the Church of St.Peter’s Primacy at Tabgha and Cana, where Jesus turned water into wine. You can stop at Yardenit to get baptized at the same place in the Jordan River where John the Baptist baptized Jesus. If you have no interest in religious sites then there are other attractions around the Sea of Galilee. Follow some of the many hike trails; go out on the water; and explore the city of Tiberias or the thermal pools at Hamat Gader. End your day with a delicious fish dinner in one of the Tiberias restaurants overlooking the sea.Suggested Overnight:Galilee Kibbutz hotelOptional tours for this day:Sea of Galilee Tour,Nazareth ToursSee allGalilee ToursDay 4 - Golan Heights: Uncover Scenic Beauty and Rich History in the NorthPeaceful landscape of Golan HeightsLeaving Galilee drive north to the Golan Heights. The area is covered with lush forests and can boast magnificent waterfalls, mountain castles, scenic farmlands, and vineyards.That said, the Golan Heights trip could be your dream escape. You will see the panorama of the shores of the Sea of Galilee from Shalom Observatory, explore the Talmudic village of Katzrin, visit Mount Bental where Syrian fortifications have remained and walk through the Syrian trenches and bunkers from the times of the Six-Day War.Suggested Overnight:Galilee Kibbutz hotelOptional tours for this day:Golan Heights Tour,Golan Heights and Safed Tour, 2 DaysDay 5 - Jerusalem: Dive into the Spiritual and Historic Heart of IsraelJerusalem, Capital of IsraelStart your day in Jerusalem with a tour of the Old City and the many sites within the ancient walls. Visit the Wailing Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and walk the Via Dolorosa retracing Jesus’ footsteps on route to his crucifixion. While in the Old City you could walk the ramparts, visit the Tower of David, the Dome of the Rock, see the ancient Roman main street, the Cardo, and enjoy the many markets. On leaving the Old City head for Yad Vashem the Israeli Holocaust museum. Depending on your interests you could stroll through the modern streets of Jerusalem; visit the Ultra-orthodox neighborhood of Mea Shearim, see the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, or visit the Israel Museum.Suggested Overnight:JerusalemOptional tours for this day:Underground Jerusalem Tour,Jerusalem and Bethlehem TourSee allJerusalem ToursDay 6 - West Bank: Visit Key Biblical Sites and Cultural HighlightsThe Church of the Nativity, BethlehemAfter revitalizing at the Dead Sea visit the gems of the West Bank, the land of breathtaking biblical sites. See Jericho, the lowest and most ancient city on earth with its famous Tell Es-Sultan and Elisha's Spring, and explore Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, with its Nativity Church, and the cave of St. Jerome beneath the Church of St. Catherine where the famous theologian translated most of the Bible into Latin. Do not forget to take a picture on Manger Square - the spot where pilgrims traditionally sing Christmas carols before the midnight mass. See the Shepherds' Field Chapel, marking the place where angels announced the birth of Christ. If you need a wide-sweeping overview of the Holy Land with its geography, culture, and politics, an organized Bethlehem and Jericho tour would be a good idea.Suggested Overnight:JerusalemOptional tours for this day: Bethlehem & Church of the Nativity Day Tour,Bethlehem and Jericho TourSee all West Bank ToursDay 7 - Dead Sea: Relax at the Lowest Point on Earth and Enjoy Its Healing WatersWoman relaxing in the salty water of a Dead SeaWake up to a glorious day by the Dead Sea. Today you are going to see Masada, one of the most important landmarks in Jewish history. Masada is a fortress constructed by King Herod and the last stronghold of the Zealots against the Romans. It took a couple of years for the Romans to build a high ramp to reach the top. When they got to Masada, they uncovered that the Zealots committed mass suicide. Since then Masada has become a Jewish cultural icon and a symbol of humanity’s never-ending struggle for freedom. You can either ascend to Masada by cable car or walk to the top with the Snake Path. After the tour of Masada, relax and recharge your batteries sunning yourself on Kalia beach. Float in the Dead Sea and cover your skin with the mineral-rich Dead Sea mud.Optional tour for this day:The Dead Sea Relaxation ExperienceSee allDead Sea ToursFinal Words about the7-Day Itinerary in IsraelIn just seven days, this itinerary provides a rich and diverse experience of Israel, blending ancient history, religious significance, natural beauty, and vibrant modern culture. Whether you choose to explore the country independently or with a guided tour, you'll leave with a deep appreciation for its unique landscapes and stories. From the dynamic city life of Tel Aviv to the spiritual depths of Jerusalem, and from the serene waters of the Dead Sea to the lush greenery of Galilee, Israel offers an unforgettable journey through time and tradition. Your adventure awaits in this small but extraordinary country.

So, you’ve booked your ticket to Israel—congratulations on your upcoming adventure! Whether it's your first time or you're a seasoned traveler, packing for Israel can be a bit of a challenge. With its diverse landscapes, varying climates, and rich cultural tapestry, you’ll want to be well-prepared. Below, we've compiled an ultimate checklist that will cover all your bases, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable, enjoyable, and safe trip.What to Pack for IsraelPacking for Israel can be both exciting and challenging. With its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and varying climates, the country offers something for every traveler. From exploring ancient historical sites to enjoying the modern vibe of Tel Aviv, your packing list should reflect the diversity of experiences that await you. Whether you’re planning to hike in the Negev Desert, float in the Dead Sea, or wander through the bustling streets of Jerusalem, this guide will ensure you’re well-prepared for any adventure. Let’s dive into the essentials you need to bring for an unforgettable trip to Israel.View of ancient walls, Tower of David, and urban road in Jerusalem1. Essential DocumentsYour passport is a must-have, but don’t forget to also bring copies of important documents such as your medical insurance, travel insurance, and any necessary visas. If you're on prescription medication, carry a copy of your prescriptions. It's wise to have digital copies stored securely online and leave a set with a trusted person back home. Keep a physical copy of your passport in your suitcase in case you lose the original. For added security, store the original passport in your hotel safe unless you need it for a border crossing or a tour, like the Petra tour from Israel.Don't forget your passport!2. Sun ProtectionIsrael is a sunny country, with hot summers and mild winters, especially in the desert areas. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, sun protection is crucial. Pack a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, aftersun (like aloe vera), and quality sunglasses. Even in winter, the sun in places like Eilat can be intense. If you run out, rest assured you can find these items at local pharmacies, though they might be pricier than at home.Sun Protection3. Season-Appropriate ClothingThe clothing you pack will depend largely on the season and your itinerary. For summer, bring light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, along with sandals, shorts, and swimsuits. If you’re visiting in winter, especially in Jerusalem, the Golan Heights, or the Negev desert, pack warm layers, including a coat, gloves, hat, and scarf. Dressing in layers is essential as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day.Regardless of the season, if you plan to visit religious sites, pack modest clothing—long pants or skirts, tops that cover the shoulders, and a scarf for women to cover their heads if needed. For men, a kippah (Jewish skullcap) is often provided at synagogues, but having a small hat is a good backup.Snowy Jerusalem in winter4. Sturdy ShoesComfortable, sturdy shoes are essential, especially if you plan on exploring Israel’s historical sites, national parks, or the rugged terrain of the Negev desert. Sneakers or supportive sandals are fine for city exploring, but if you’re hiking or trekking, consider packing proper hiking boots.A backpacker taking in a scenic desert landscape in the Negev, Israel5. Reusable Water BottleStaying hydrated in Israel is crucial, particularly in the summer when temperatures soar. Carry a reusable water bottle that you can refill at the many water fountains available throughout the country. Tap water in Israel is safe to drink, so take advantage of it and avoid buying plastic bottles.Tap water in Israel is safe to drink6. Devices, Gadgets, and ChargersIn our digital age, staying connected is vital. Bring your smartphone, tablet, and camera, along with their chargers and possibly a power bank for long days out. Don’t forget an electrical converter if your devices require one. Download useful travel apps for navigation, currency conversion, and language translation before you leave.Powerbank, one of the essential gadgets for every trip7. Basic First Aid Kit and Prescription MedicationsWhile Israel has excellent healthcare facilities and pharmacies where English is commonly spoken, it’s still a good idea to bring a basic first aid kit. Include items like pain relievers, antiseptic cream, band-aids, antihistamines, and any personal medications. Sunscreen and aftersun are must-haves, especially during the hotter months, but these can be quite expensive locally, so consider bringing your own.First aid kit8. Comfortable and Modest ClothingIn Israel, casual attire is the norm, even at many fine dining establishments. However, when visiting religious sites, modest clothing is required. Pack a large hat, T-shirts, light trousers or shorts, and breathable fabrics for summer. Women should consider a lightweight dress or skirt that covers the knees, particularly in Jerusalem and other religious areas.9. A Good Book or TwoWhether for the plane ride or some downtime, pack a good book. Consider picking up something with a local flavor—perhaps a novel by Amos Oz or Etgar Keret, or a historical account by Tom Segev. You’ll find plenty of English-language books available in Israel, especially in larger cities.10. Swimsuit or Swim TrunksIsrael’s beaches, the Mediterranean beach, the Dead Sea, the Red Sea, and the Sea of Galilee all offer opportunities to swim, so don’t forget your swimsuit. You can even treat yourself to swimwear from Gottex, a luxury Israeli brand.People sunbathe on the beach next to the Hilton Hotel in Tel AvivAdditional Tips for Packing for IsraelTravel Light but Smart: If you’re staying in major cities, consider packing light and shopping locally. However, for trips to rural or desert areas, come fully prepared.Plan for Weather Variations: Israel’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter, so be prepared for both warm sunny days and cooler evenings.Stay Hydrated: Always keep your water bottle full, particularly if you’re spending time in the sun.By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable experience in Israel. Pack wisely, respect local customs, and enjoy the rich culture, history, and natural beauty that Israel has to offer. Safe travels!

Aqaba, Jordan’s enchanting coastal city, invites travelers to explore its unique blend of ancient history, sun-drenched beaches, and thrilling adventures. Even if you’ve visited Aqaba several times, there’s always more to discover. Despite its competition with iconic Jordanian destinations like Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea, Aqaba offers a wealth of activities and attractions. From the captivating ruins of Ayla to the pristine waters of the Red Sea, there are plenty of experiences to captivate your senses and create unforgettable memories.Are you ready to dive into the best things to do in Aqaba and start planning an unforgettable adventure in this coastal gem? Whether you’re seeking history, relaxation, or adrenaline-pumping activities, Aqaba has something special to offer every traveler. Prepare to explore and incorporate some (or all) of these top experiences into your Jordan itinerary for a truly enriching journey.1. Snorkel at the Marine ParkAqaba Marine Park is an excellent choice for families and nature enthusiasts. The park’s protected waters are home to vibrant marine life, including colorful fish and coral reefs. Spend your day relaxing on the beach or snorkeling to explore the underwater beauty. Don’t miss a tour to snorkel in the Japanese Garden, which is ideal for beginners.Snorkeling at the Marine Park2. Scuba Dive in the Red SeaFor those interested in scuba diving, Aqaba’s warm Red Sea waters and lively coral reefs offer an unforgettable experience. Numerous dive operators and shops in Aqaba provide trips to various diving sites. Beginners need not worry; many dive shops offer introductory courses and certification programs that include classroom and pool training, followed by open water dives with an instructor.Scuba divers, Red Sea3. Shop the SouksNo visit to Aqaba is complete without exploring its lively souks. These traditional markets have been central to Middle Eastern culture for centuries, serving as hubs for trade and social interaction. Dive into the local culture, pick up some exotic spices, and enjoy the art of haggling. It’s also a perfect spot to find souvenirs and gifts.Spice store at the Aqaba Market (Souk)4. Explore Beyond Aqaba on a Day TripAqaba serves as a great base for visiting other Jordanian attractions like Wadi Rum and Petra. Its coastal location also makes it convenient for exploring neighboring countries. Day trips are easy to arrange, or you can drive yourself to destinations within Jordan. For more information, check out guides on popular day trips from Aqaba to choose your next adventure.Port of Aqaba, one of the places to visit on your Day Trip5. Admire the Sharif Hussein bin Ali MosqueJordan’s Muslim heritage is beautifully represented at the Sharif Hussein bin Ali Mosque. This mosque showcases traditional Islamic architecture and provides insight into the country’s religion and culture. It’s open to the public outside of prayer times, with robes available for women to borrow.Al-Sharif Al-Hussein bin Ali Mosque in Aqaba6. Stroll the Aqaba CornicheThe Aqaba Corniche is a picturesque seaside promenade perfect for enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning Red Sea views. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride, and experience the outdoor seating at restaurants and cafes along the promenade, where you can savor the sea breeze and live music while dining.TheAqaba Corniche7. Lounge on Al-Hafayer BeachAqaba’s status as Jordan’s only port city means it has no shortage of beaches. Al-Hafayer Beach is a secluded spot known for its clear waters, soft white sand, and stunning mountain backdrop. Rent lounge chairs and umbrellas, or bring your own to enjoy a day of sunbathing, swimming, and water sports like snorkeling and jet skiing.Al-Hafayer Beach8. Aqaba CastleAqaba Castle, also known as Mamluk Fort, is a historic fortress that dates back to the 16th century. Originally built by the Ottomans and later restored by the Mamluks, the castle is a key site to understand the region’s history and culture. It played a significant role in the Arab Revolt and was famously associated with Lawrence of Arabia.Aqaba Castle9. Visit the Archaeology MuseumThe Aqaba Archaeology Museum is a must-visit for anyone keen to delve into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. The museum’s collection spans the Bronze Age, Iron Age, Nabatean periods, and beyond, featuring artifacts like pottery, jewelry, coins, and ancient manuscripts unique to the region.The Aqaba Archaeology Museum10. Visit the Ruins of AylaAyla, an ancient Islamic city rediscovered in 1989, dates back to 650 AD. It was the first Islamic city built outside the Arabian Peninsula, serving as a port and storehouse. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into historical architecture, with Byzantine structures still standing. You can explore the ruins in about 30 minutes.The Ruins of AylaFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About AqabaWhere is Aqaba?Aqaba is a coastal city located in the southernmost part of Jordan. It lies on the northeastern tip of the Red Sea, adjacent to the borders of Israel, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. As Jordan’s only seaport, Aqaba serves as a major hub for maritime trade and tourism.Where is the Gulf of Aqaba?The Gulf of Aqaba is a northeastern extension of the Red Sea, bordered by four countries: Jordan, Israel, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. Aqaba is situated at the northern end of the Gulf, providing access to its warm waters and vibrant marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and other water-based activities.How far is Aqaba from Petra?Aqaba is approximately 125 kilometers (78 miles) from Petra. The journey by car takes around 2 hours, making it a convenient day trip for those staying in Aqaba. Petra is one of Jordan’s most famous archaeological sites, renowned for its rock-cut architecture and ancient history.How far is Aqaba from Wadi Rum?Aqaba is about 65 kilometers (40 miles) from Wadi Rum. The drive takes approximately 1 hour, making it an easy and accessible excursion. Wadi Rum is a vast desert landscape known for its dramatic rock formations, stunning sunsets, and connection to the film "Lawrence of Arabia." It’s a popular spot for jeep tours, camel rides, and stargazing.