Things to do in Israel

Explore some of Jordan's most spectacular sites on a 2-Days tour from Amman. Day 1: Amman - Petra - Wadi Rum Depart Amman and travel south to Petra. Founded by the Nabateans, Petra is considered one of the wonders of the world. Located 139 miles (225 kilometers) from Amman, Petra was carved in stone more than 2,000 years ago. It dominated the trade routes of ancient Arabia. Upon arrival, walk the narrow path of the Siq to discover the main entrance to the city. At the end of the Siq, see the Treasury (al-Khazneh) Then, transfer to Wadi Rum in the afternoon, drive to Wadi Rum by 4WD jeep. Wadi Rum ("Valley of the Moon") is where the legendary film "Lawrence of Arabia" was filmed. Marvel at the unique shape of the mountain as it rises from the rose-red sand of the desert. See towering cliffs of brownish, reddish, and golden colors. . Spend the night in a Bedouin camp and enjoy bedouin dinner and some nighttime activities. Day 2: Wadi Rum - Dead Sea - Amman. after breakfast, Drive to the Dead Sea, famous for the biblical story of Sodom and Gomorrah. Located 400 meters below sea level, the Dead Sea is one of Jordan's most spectacular sites. Marvel at the calm waters glinting in the scorching sun. Legendary for its high concentration of salt and minerals, the Dead Sea is therapeutic and provides for a unique swimming experience. After some free time to swim, return to your hotel in Amman.

On this full-day tour of the Holy Land, enjoy pick-up from your hotel in Tel Aviv in a comfortable air-conditioned coach and travel along highway no' 1 to Jerusalem. You’ll be accompanied throughout the day by a knowledgeable, professional guide. You’ll enjoy a panoramic overview from Mount Scopus, overlooking the new city of Jerusalem and the Temple Mount Esplanade of the old city. As you travel along the Kidron Valley, you’ll be able to take in views the Garden of Gethsemane as well as the walls of the city. On reaching the Armenian Quarter you'll enter the Western or Wailing Wall square via the local bazaar. See the Christian Quarter and the Stations of the Cross, also known as the Via Dolorosa. Visit the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, which is considered to be the site of the crucifixion of Jesus. You'll also walk along the 1700-year-old Byzantine Cardo, the main street, and see the renovated Jewish Quarter. Transfer to Bethlehem (Palestinian guide and vehicle). Bethlehem, meaning “City of Bread”, was the birthplace of Jesus according to Christian tradition. Your drive to Bethlehem takes you by way of Nativity Circle. Visit the Church of Nativity, and also the cave where Jesus was born. You’ll see Manger Square, where Jesus was placed after his birth. Before completing the tour, visit St' Catharine - a Roman Catholic Church. You’ll enjoy an overview of the Shepherd's Fields on the return drive to Tel Aviv.

After meeting at the David Citadel Hotel, you will begin your 3 to 5-hour tour, depending on the season. You will explore some of the religious highlights of Bethlehem, including the Church of the Nativity, St. Catherine, and the Shepherds' Fields. You will begin with the chance to visit the 1,500-year-old Church of Nativity where Jesus was born. From there you will enjoy beautiful views of the Old City of Bethlehem complete with the Manger Square. You will then take a ride through the city of Bethlehem and Beit Sahour passing by the main sites. A special visit to the Milk Grotto is also available, as well as a tour to the Shepherd’s Field where the Angels first announced the birth of Jesus Christ.

Embark on a full-day guided tour from Tel Aviv to the Judean Hills and the shores of the Dead Sea by bus. Visit the ancient palace of Masada, ride a cable car, and admire the Qumran caves on your drive back. Perched on a high plateau, the ancient fortified palace of Masada became a refuge for Zealots who took a stand against the Romans, until the mass suicide of the zealots in 73 AD. The ruins sit precariously on a plateau some 1,300 feet above sea level and measure 2,000-foot long by 1,000-foot wide. They boast extraordinary views of the Dead Sea and the Judean Desert. It is an exhausting climb, but we will ascend by cable car to make life easier. Explore the fortress built by King Herod in around 37 BC. Visit the remains of the palaces and see mosaic floors, Roman baths, and other findings. Masada was also home to the oldest synagogue in Israel, but one of the most remarkable features is the 12 water cisterns, each with a capacity of up to 140,000 cubic feet. Following the tour of Masada, you will drive to the Dead Sea Mineral Beach located in the Jordan Rift Valley, between Jordan and the West Bank. It is the lowest place on earth and its high density of salt makes for a unique experience as you float on the beautiful aquamarine surface. Take a mud bath and benefit from the therapeutic qualities of the natural Dead Sea mud. You will then drive back to Tel Aviv, with an on-route view of the Qumran cave, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found.

Enjoy a day exploring some of the most significant holy sites in Israel on an excursion by bus from Jerusalem. The guided tour sets out from the city early in the morning and drives along the scenic coast via Tel Aviv and the plain of Armageddon to Nazareth. Arrive in Nazareth and visit St. Joseph’s Church and the Church of the Annunciation. The largest Roman Catholic church in the Middle East, the Church of the Annunciation is, according to tradition, the scene of the annunciation of the Virgin Mary.  Continue onwards via Kafr Kanna to view the Mount of Beatitudes and Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fish at Tabgha. Set on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee, you will stop to view the sea, and continue to the nearby ruins of the ancient synagogue of Capernaum. Visit Tiberias on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, considered one of the 4 Holy Cities of Judaism, along with Jerusalem, Hebron, and Safed. Drive to the Jordan River at Yardenit, where guests are invited to receive an optional baptismal service. Return to Jerusalem via a scenic route that takes in views of Mt. Tabor, the site of the transfiguration.

Starting from Jaffa Gate of the Old City, we’ll step back into time and walk through the different Quarters of the Old City. Taking in the indescribable energy that every corner presents, we’ll visit the sites most holy to all three religions. To Jews, King David’s Tomb and the Western (Wailing) Wall, the last remains of the Jewish Temple which stood here thousands of year ago. To Muslims, the site where the Prophet Mohammed ascended to heaven, the Dome of the Rock, as well as the beautiful Al Aqsa Mosque. And to Christians, the Via Dolorosa along which Christ walked with his own cross to his crucifixion, and the room of the last supper, as well as venturing inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre! Biblical stories will be put into context as you stand in the place where they took place whilst learning about the 5 Pillars of Islam, the foundation of the Jewish nation and the discovery of the True Cross, to name a few.

Madaba: City of Mosaics Start your day exploring the ancient city of Madaba, renowned for its exquisite Byzantine mosaics. Immerse yourself in the vibrant hues and intricate details of the Madaba Mosaic Map, considered the oldest preserved map of the Holy Land. Delve deeper into Madaba's rich heritage at the Archaeological Park, where Roman and Byzantine ruins whisper tales of a bygone era. The St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church in Madaba, Jordan, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered! While not as widely known as some of the city's iconic sites like the Church of St. George, this charming church offers a unique blend of history, religious significance, and architectural beauty Historical Gem: Built in the 19th century, the church stands as a testament to Jordan's rich Christian heritage. Its elegant stone façade and stained glass windows whisper stories of devotion & faith across generations. Architectural Intrigue: The church's design blends Western & Eastern influences, showcasing a graceful mixture of Romanesque and Byzantine architectural styles. Take in the delicate arches, the intricate detailing around the entrance, & the peaceful courtyard adorned with greenery Religious Significance: Dedicated to St. John the Baptist, a pivotal figure in both Christianity & Islam, the church offers a space for quiet contemplation and prayer for visitors of all faiths Mount Nebo: Where Moses Gazed at the Promised Land Ascend Mount Nebo is a sacred site revered by Christians and Jews alike. Stand where Moses is believed to have glimpsed the Promised Land and soak in the panoramic views of the Jordan Valley and beyond. Explore the ruins of a 4th-century monastery and marvel at the Moses Memorial Church, adorned with stunning Byzantine mosaics. Baptism Site: Witnessing History Continue your journey to the Bethany Beyond the Jordan, the believed baptism site of Jesus Christ. Immerse yourself in the serenity of this holy place along the Jordan River, where historical and spiritual significance intertwine. Participate in a renewal ceremony (optional) and walk through the reconstructed paths used by pilgrims for centuries. Dead Sea: Float in Buoyancy Conclude your day with a unique experience at the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Float effortlessly in the hypersaline waters, renowned for their therapeutic properties and buoyancy. Pamper yourself with a mud treatment known for its skin-softening benefits. Soak in the surreal landscape and watch the sunset paint the sky with vibrant hues. Head inside the Hotel (Holiday Inn or Crowne Plaza ) and enjoy free time to enjoy the waters and setting as you please. Use the available towels and free mud and relax on the mineral beaches.

Start your day with pickup from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. Visit Nazareth and the impressive Basilica of Annunciation for a tour of the church and the old city of Nazaret. Continue towards the Sea of Galilee and pass Cana, the site of Jesus’s first miracle of turning water into wine. Visit ancient Capernaum, located at the foot of the Mount of Beatitudes and see the Church of Multiplications. Finally, visit Yardenit Baptismal site at the southern tip of the Sea of Galilee, one of the possible sites of Jesus’ baptism. Explore this vibrant site that welcomes hundreds of thousands of pilgrims yearly who flock to the waters of the Jordan river. Return to Tel Aviv or Jerusalem with a suite of unforgettable memories and wonderful impressions.

After being picked up from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem depending on your booking option, travel to Bethlehem where you will meet your guide before heading into the old city of Bethlehem. Enjoy a guided visit to the Church of the Nativity.  Continue your tour with a visit to the Milk Grotto Church before riding to the city of the shepherds, Bayt Sahur where you will visit the Chapel of the Shepherds Field before getting to visit an olive wood factory where you will see artisans crafting wooden sculptures.  Then journey through the wonderful Judean Desert to the lowest point on earth. Have chances to stop and take pictures at the sea level point in the desert overlooking the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, Jericho.  Drive into Jericho where you will see some of the famed sights in the city including Zaccheus's Tree which is mentioned in the bible. Itinerary in Detail - Best Bethlehem, Jericho and Jordan River Tour Explore Bethlehem for 4-5 hours, starting at about 8:30 AM in Bethlehem Shepherds Field (30 Minutes): Visit a charming place where the Christmas story happened. Milk Grotto Church (10 Minutes): Experience calm and peace in this spiritual church. Nativity Church (60 Minutes): Learn about Bethlehem's history at this important place. Note that Grotto visits may not be possible unless booked Small Group option Zuluf Olive Wood Factory & Community Store (25 Minutes): Watch skilled craftsmen at work and shop for handcrafted items, No Lunch Breaks: Enjoy convenient falafel and chicken shawarma sandwiches for takeout Jericho and Beyond Sea Level Stop (5 Minutes): Take a moment to appreciate the significance of this location at sea level. Saint Gerasimous Monastery (15 Minutes): Discover the history of Saint Gerasimous Monastery in Jericho. Jordan River (30 Minutes): Reflect by the Jordan River, a place with deep biblical meaning. Hisham Palace (30 Minutes): Explore Hisham Palace, where old architecture tells stories from the past. Old City of Jericho (30 Minutes): Step back in time as you explore the ancient tales of Jericho's Old City. The Sycamore Tree (5 Minutes): See the Sycamore Tree linked to the story of Zacchaeus from the Bible. Elijah Spring (5 Minutes): Enjoy the peaceful Elijah Spring, a calm oasis in the desert landscape.

Day 1 Ancient Amman, Madaba, Mount Nebo. 9:00 AM You will be picked up from your preferred location in Amman to start your trip to Madaba (a 45-minute drive) to visit Madaba Archaeological Park, Church of the Martyrs, and St George's Greek Orthodox Church. Then will head to Mount Nebo (a 15-minute drive), an amazing historical mountain mentioned in many religious books and legends. According to the Christian Bible, the Prophet Moses saw the land that God promised him from this mountain. For the Jewish people, the land of Mount Nebo is a sacred and forbidden land, where the followers of the Prophet walked with him when they left Egypt. After that, you head back to Amman' to visit the Citadel for 1.5 hours before visit the Roman Theater for 30 minutes. At the end of the day, get dropped off at your preferred hotel in Amman (included if option selected)(the room up to 3 guests) Day 2 - Aqaba & Wadi Rum 8:30 Pick up from hotel in Amman Transfer to Aqaba and enjoy some free time in Aqaba market to grab a cup of coffee or have lunch there or take a glass boat trip to see the coral reef in Aqaba gulf for 2 hours (optional activity) Transfer to Wadi Rum Check in to Bedouin Camp in Wadi Rum. Enjoy free time in Wadi Rum. Optional activities can be arranged on the spot including camel rides, hiking, and more Jeep Safari tour in Wadi Rum with your local Bedouin guide Authentic Jordanian Dinner at the Bedouin Camp including traditional Zarb(Bedouin barbecue), spreads, salads, bread, and more Stay overnight in a Bedouin Camp and taste the delicious traditional food (dinner included) (included if option selected)(the tent up to 3 guests) Day 3 - Little Petra, Petra Optional early camel ride or Hot Air Balloon at sunrise over the magical scenery of the stunning desert of Wadi Rum. Breakfast at leisure in the Bedouin campsite Transfer to Petra including a view of Mount Haroun. Arrive in Petra and begin your visit of the Little Petra (trading station), then going to explore the Rose City of Petra, the legacy of the Nabataeans, an industrious Arab people who settled in southern Jordan more than 2,300 years ago. Admired then for its refined culture, massive architecture and ingenious complex of dams and water channels, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritages Site. Transfer to your hotel in Petra to stay Overnight (included if option selected)(the room up to 3 guests) You have the option to experience The Petra by Night tour which can be arranged locally on the spot, available Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday (17JOD ticket not included with Jordan Pass) Day 4 Dead Sea and Baptism site of Jesus. After breakfast will head to the Dead Sea through one of the most beautiful roads with wonderful views. After arriving at the Dead Sea Hotel will enjoy floating in the mineral-enriched water of the dead sea and having lunch. Then will head to the Baptism site of Jesus Christ. In the evening will return to Amman around 4-5pm