Classical Israel 5-Day Tour

Overview

The Classical Israel 5-Day Tour is a comprehensive journey designed for travelers who want to experience Israel’s most important landscapes, cities, and historical landmarks in one well-structured itinerary. Over five days, the tour travels from the green hills of the Golan Heights and Galilee to the Mediterranean coast, the Judean Desert, the Dead Sea, and finally Jerusalem’s Old City. With expert guides and overnight stays included, the tour balances depth, variety, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors.

Day 1: Golan Heights

The tour begins with a journey north through the Plain of Armageddon, passing Megiddo before entering the Galilee region of rolling hills, farmland, vineyards, and views of the Sea of Galilee. Crossing the Jordan River, the route ascends into the Golan Heights, known for its lush scenery and strategic viewpoints.

Highlights include passing Hamat Gader, famous for its hot springs, and stopping at the Shalom Observatory, where sweeping views stretch across the Golan and down toward the Sea of Galilee. In Katzrin, you visit an excavated Jewish village from the Mishnah and Talmudic periods. The day continues to Mount Bental, where you explore former Syrian bunkers and trenches captured during the Six-Day War, offering insight into Israel’s modern military history. Overnight stay is in Tel Aviv.

Day 2: Nazareth, Capernaum and the Sea of Galilee

Day two focuses on the heart of Christian Galilee. Traveling north along the coastal road, the tour turns inland toward the Valley of Armageddon with views of Megiddo. Passing Mount Precipice, you arrive in Nazareth, visiting the Church of the Annunciation and the Church of St. Joseph.

Continuing through the Galilee, the route passes Cana, then reaches the Sea of Galilee. You stop in Capernaum, associated with Jesus’ ministry, and visit Tabgha, home to the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes. The tour passes Tiberias and stops at Yardenit, a baptismal site on the Jordan River. On the return journey, you pass Mount Tabor, traditionally linked to the Transfiguration. Overnight stay is in Tel Aviv.

Day 3: Caesarea, Acre and Rosh Hanikra

The third day explores Israel’s Mediterranean coast. The first stop is Caesarea, where you tour the remains of a Roman port city, including the theater, hippodrome, and palace ruins. Continuing north, the tour passes through Haifa, stopping to view the terraced Baha’i Gardens on Mount Carmel.

At Israel’s northern border, you visit the sea caves of Rosh Hanikra, descending into grottoes carved by waves crashing against the cliffs. The day ends in Acre, where you explore the Crusader fortress, underground halls, Ottoman-era buildings, and a former citadel prison. Overnight stay is in Tel Aviv.

Day 4: Masada and the Dead Sea

Day four heads south through the Judean Hills, passing the Inn of the Good Samaritan. After a sea-level photo stop, the tour descends below sea level toward Masada. You ascend by cable car to explore the remains of King Herod’s desert fortress, including palaces and bathhouses.

From Masada, the route passes Ein Gedi and Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found, before arriving at the Dead Sea. The afternoon is spent floating in the mineral-rich water, enjoying the famous mud, and relaxing by the shore. Overnight stay is in Jerusalem.

Day 5: Jerusalem Old City

The final day begins with panoramic views from Mount Scopus before entering Jerusalem’s Old City through Zion Gate. You explore the Armenian, Jewish, Muslim, and Christian Quarters, visiting the Byzantine Cardo, the Western Wall, and walking the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

The tour continues through the Old City bazaar and includes visits to the Garden of Gethsemane, Church of All Nations, Kidron Valley, Mount Zion, the Room of the Last Supper, and King David’s Tomb. On Mondays and Thursdays, the schedule includes a visit to the Holocaust Museum instead of some Mount Zion and Gethsemane sites. The tour concludes in Jerusalem.

What Guests Say

Guests often highlight how much of Israel they are able to experience in just five days, noting the impressive range of landscapes and historical sites. Many praise the knowledgeable guides who clearly explain both ancient and modern history. Travelers appreciate the smooth logistics, overnight stays, and thoughtful pacing that make each day full but manageable, allowing them to enjoy each destination without feeling rushed.

Why You’ll Love It

This tour brings together Israel’s most iconic regions in one carefully planned itinerary. From exploring ancient ruins and biblical sites to floating in the Dead Sea and standing at scenic viewpoints in the Golan Heights, every day offers a new perspective. With expert guidance and comfortable pacing, the experience feels immersive and rewarding. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want a complete introduction to Israel’s history, culture, and landscapes.

Summary

The Classical Israel 5-Day Tour offers an in-depth and well-rounded introduction to Israel. From the Golan Heights and Galilee to the Mediterranean coast, the Dead Sea, and Jerusalem’s Old City, the itinerary combines natural beauty, ancient history, and sacred sites into one unforgettable journey.