Israel Tours You Shouldn’t Miss
Because there is so much to see and do when you come to Israel, travelers sometimes find that it’s difficult to fit everything in, or find that getting from place to place is complicated and time-consuming. But by going on Israel tours, you can be sure to experience the absolute best that Israel has to offer, through a facilitated experience that might include things such as transportation, expert guides, accommodation, and even free time to explore.
Here is a roundup of some of the must-do Israel tours you should definitely add to your Israel travel itinerary, in alphabetical order.
Dead Sea Tours
The Dead Sea is one of the most famous sites in Israel, and is a common destination for Israel tours. Located at the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea is incredibly salty and full of other rich minerals. Because of this, you’ll be unusually buoyant and floaty in the water, and you’ll have the opportunity to spread the Dead Sea mud on your skin, which is purported to have health benefits. The Dead Sea is located in the desert, and while it is possible to get there by vehicle or public transit.
There are several different options for Dead Sea tours. If you simply want to relax by the water, you can enjoy a Dead Sea Chill Out Tour, which gives you ample time to enjoy the sea. If you enjoy biking, there is also a Bike and Chill option.
Many Israel tours combine Dead Sea experiences with stops at Masada (an ancient fortress in the desert) and Ein Gedi, an oasis and nature reserve. You have an option for a daytime Masada, Ein Gedi, & Dead Sea tour, as well an option to experience sunrise at Masada, before heading to Ein Gedi and the Dead Sea.
Jerusalem Free Walking Tour
This Jerusalem free walking tour is an excellent way of getting an overview into the incredible, ancient sites that are in the Old City of Jerusalem. While there are many Israel tours that take you through Jerusalem, this tour is completely free of cost, is two-hours long, and is the perfect way to get your bearings in the city and get a summary of the most important sites. You’ll take in stunning views of the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, Al-Aqsa Mosque, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. You’ll also get an overview of the four quarters of the city – the Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian Quarters.
Jaffa Free Walking Tour
If you’re interested in Israel tours but you’re keeping an eye on your budget, this Jaffa free walking tour is a great experience to add to your list. Jaffa is located in the south of Tel Aviv, and it’s the oldest part of the city. Jaffa is an ancient port, and it has many references in biblical stories. During this two-hour tour, you’ll explore this quaint and stunning area while learning about Jaffa’s various rulers and visitors, including the Egyptian Pharaoh Rameses, Napoleon Bonaparte, St. Peter, and the prophet Jonah.
The Jesus Trail
Calling all nature lovers, this is one of our favorite Israel tours that you certainly shouldn’t miss. If you’re looking to go on an unforgettable walk through nature, history, culture, and spirituality, then this trail is for you. The Jesus Trail takes hikers by foot through small villages, bustling cities, and sweeping farmland along the path that Jesus chose to carry out his ministry. This multi-day hike begins in Nazareth, and takes you through Zippori, Cana, a Jewish Kibbutz, ancient olive groves, Mount Arbel, and the stunning sea of Galilee. This tour is a self-guided hiking tour, and includes printed guide materials and a local contact (but no guide). If you’d like, there is an option to also complete this tour in three days.
Sea of Galilee and Golan Heights
The north of Israel is home to two sites that are popular choices for Israel tours: the Sea of Galilee and Golan Heights. The Sea of Galilee, also called Lake Kinneret, is the largest fresh-water lake in the Middle East, and it has crisp waters and lush foliage around it. On this tour, you’ll visit places like Capernaum and the Mount of Beatitudes (where Jesus preached his Sermon on the Mount). Then, you’ll take a scenic drive through the Galilee region to the famous Banias Nature Reserve, and Mas’ade, where you’ll stop in a Druze village for a tasty lunch break. You’ll also head to the summit of Mount Bental, where you can overlook the Syrian territory sprawling off to the horizon, with Damascus just 60km away, as well as Tel Shifon Winery. Depending on the season, this tour will bring you back to the Sea of Galilee where you can relax on the beach and go for a swim.
Tel Aviv Graffiti Tour
Taking place in the popular and bustling Florentine neighborhood, this Tel Aviv graffiti tour shows you firsthand the lively and creative street art scene here in Israel. You’ll explore an area that’s been ranked as one of the “top ten hip neighborhoods worldwide,” and learn about different forms of graffiti and street art. You’ll also learn how to identify pieces by some of the best-known Israeli street artists.
Yacht Ride in the Red Sea
Talk about a dreamy vacation activity. Sail away on a yacht across the crisp, clear, blue waters of the Red Sea, which is located in Israel’s southernmost city, Eilat. The Red Sea is full of colorful fish and corals, and it’s world-renowned as a premier destination for diving and snorkeling. On this tour, you’ll leave Eilat’s marina guided by experienced sailing staff. You’ll learn the geography and nature of the gulf, along with some expert boating techniques. You’ll have chances to jump in the sea and snorkel, you’ll enjoy refreshments on board, and you’ll take in the stunning landscapes of the red rock mountains. Don’t forget, Eilat’s downtown is just minutes away from the Taba Border Crossing with Sinai, Egypt. If you’re interested in visiting the stunning and peaceful Sinai peninsula during your trip to Eilat, Aqua Sun Abraham Village is waiting to host you during your stay.
