Discover the ancient world of Israel, where legendary stories of humanity’s collective history blend with the thriving dynamic of modern life. Your adventure starts in Tel Aviv, the chic centre for spirited luxury and captivating nightlife. Get a taste of the local flavour during a home-hosted lunch in a Druze community. Step into the past and enjoy a cruise on the Sea of Galilee. Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Jerusalem’s Old City. Gain a new perspective as you ascend the ancient walls of Masada by cable car. Float in the tranquil waters of the Dead Sea. From historic Nazareth to the sophisticated bustling hub of Tel Aviv, experience the all-encompassing essence of Israel.
Inclusions:
- 9 night guided vacation
- 9 nights accommodation
- 16 Meals: 8 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 3 Dinners
- Sightseeing throughout tour
- Services of a qualified English Speaking Travel Director, Driver Guide
Sep 7, 2023 | from $4179 tax included |
Oct 5,17, 2023 | from $4579 tax included |
Dec 5, 2023 | from $3839 tax included |
Jan 16-Feb 20, 2024 | from $4139 tax included |
Mar 19, 2024 | from $4539 tax included |
Apr 7,9, 2024 | from $4679 tax included |
Single Room Supplement | on request |
Roundtrip airfare to Telav not included, but can be added once available.
Must See Inclusions
- Sail on the tranquil waters of the Sea of Galilee aboard a replica boat reminiscent of the 1st century
- Explore the old city of Jerusalem including the Western Wall – The Wall of the Cross
- Venture to the 2,000 year old ancient Roman city of Caesarea
Culinary Inclusions
- Sample wine integral to Israel tradition at the vineyard in Golan Heights
- Enjoy a traditional Druze lunch and learn about this Arib-Israel community
- Get a taste for Israel cuisine on a walking food tour in the camel market
- Connect with the ancient Othodox Jewish community at a home hosted dinner in Jerusalem
- Engage in a conversation with a Holocaust survivor at Yad Vashem
- Enjoy 2 nights in Tel Aviv, Israel’s dynamic and thriving strip of metropolitan life
Day 1: Depart Canada – Overnight Flight to Tel Aviv
Join us as we explore Israel, an ancient land rich in tradition – and home to some of the world’s most important historic treasures.
Day 2: Tel Aviv, Israel – Tour Begins – Jaffa – Tel Aviv (D)
Welcome to Tel Aviv, a bustling city on the Mediterranean coast. Transfer from the airport to your hotel. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner in the ancient port city of Jaffa.
Hotel: Isrotel Tower Hotel (or similar)
Day 3: Tel Aviv (B/L)
This morning, walk the narrow stone streets of Jaffa, an ancient port city. Then it’s on to Carmel Market for a walking food tour.* Sample fresh hummus and savory street foods as you connect with the locals, getting a true taste of everyday life. This afternoon, perhaps you will relax on sandy beaches or opt to join your Tour Manager in the “White City” (UNESCO), highlighting famous Bauhaus architecture. Enjoy an evening at leisure to take in the city’s captivating nightlife of rooftop lounges, sophisticated cocktail bars, and more.
Hotel: Leonardo Plaza Hotel Tiberias (or similar)
Day 4: Tel Aviv – Caesarea – Haifa – Tiberias (B/L/D)
Follow the coast to the ruins of the ancient city of Caesarea, built by Herod the Great in the 1st century BC. Chat with locals over a plate of enticing Arabic food as you bond with members of the Druze community at a home-hosted lunch. Afterward, in Haifa, take in the breathtaking panorama of the Baha’i Shrine and Gardens on Mount Carmel (UNESCO). Your day comes to a close in Tiberias, a sacred city overlooking the Sea of Galilee.
Hotel: Leonardo Plaza Hotel Tiberias (or similar)
Day 5: Tiberias – Korazim – Golan Heights – Sea of Galilee – Tiberia (B/L/D)
Begin your day by exploring the excavated ruins of Korazim, a town believed to be cursed by Jesus because they did not heed his teachings. Korazim is in a relatively remote position, further up the hills overlooking the Sea of Galilee with gorgeous panoramic views. Enjoy lunch at a winery in the Golan Heights, a slice of fertile agriculture set on a rocky plateau. Set sail on the tranquil waters of the Sea of Galilee aboard a replica boat reminiscent of the 1st century.
Day 6: Tiberias – Nazareth – Mount of Olives – Jerusalem (B/D)
Depart Tiberias for the historic city of Nazareth. Visit the Church of the Annunciation and Mary’s Well. Continue south to the Mount of Olives and marvel at the all-encompassing view of Jerusalem, including the shining Dome of the Rock. Housing layers of history and heritage, allow the resilient spirit of the city to capture your senses. Tonight, get to know a local family as you enjoy a traditional meal** in their home.
Hotel: Dan Boutique Jerusalem Hotel (or similar)
Day 7: Jerusalem (B/D)
Walk in the footsteps of millions before you and discover the old walled city of Jerusalem (UNESCO). On this walking tour, see the Western (Wailing) Wall and the storied path of the Stations of the Cross. Immerse yourself in the everyday culture of Jerusalem’s Shuk (the Bazaars of the Old City), with each narrow street dedicated to different trades passed down through generations. As you explore, breathe in the smell of freshly baked bread, roasting sesame seeds, and savory spices. The remainder of the day is yours. Perhaps you will join an optional tour of Jerusalem by night, which includes a sound and light show.
Day 8: Jerusalem (B)
Begin your day with a poignant visit to Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center. You won’t just tour this powerful museum, but you’ll get to have an open conversation with a Holocaust survivor.*** The rest of your day is at leisure to explore more of Jerusalem. Perhaps you’ll visit the Israel Museum to view the Dead Sea scrolls or consider an optional trip to the city of Bethlehem, spread along the Judean Hills. Visit the Church of the Nativity**** – the birthplace of Jesus and the first church ever built.
Day 9: Jerusalem – Masada – Dead Sea – Jerusalem (B/D)
Travel to the desert fortress of Masada (UNESCO), situated on a cliff next to the Dead Sea. Ascend the ancient walls of Masada by cable car and explore Herod’s Palaces, the Roman Camp, and the Synagogue. Float in the tranquil healing waters of the Dead Sea, experiencing its unique natural buoyancy. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner and toast the end to an incredible journey.
Day 10 – Jerusalem – Tour Ends
Your tour comes to a close today. Transfer to the airport for your flight home or add a 3 night extension to Jordan from $1300 per person
3-Night Jordan Extension from $1300 per person
Explore more of this amazing region. Extend your adventure with a 4-night Jordan Extension. Tour the incredible stone-carved city of Petra. Experience the desert life of the Bedouin people in Wadi Rum. Visit historic sites such as Madaba, Mt. Nebo and Jerash, the “Pompeii of the East.” (2 nights in Petra; 1 night Amman; 1 night Tel Aviv)
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Israel, the West Bank or the Gaza Strip.
Entry card
The Government of Israel issues an entry card on arrival. To truly experience the program and destination, you need to be able to participate in physical activities such as longer walking tours, walking over uneven terrain, climbing stairs and periods of standing. Some of the touring days may be longer, with select included activities occurring later in the evening. Proper dress is required when visiting religious sites, sanctuaries, basilicas, etc.