israel walking tours

Walk. Feel. Experience Israel.

Discover Israel on a private walking tour.

Shalom and welcome!

I’m Lior, a certified Israeli tour guide and blogger at  Backpack Israel.

I love Israel – its wonderful people, beautiful landscapes, and amazing history. And I want to share this love with you!

Join me on one of my private or public tours to explore Israel on foot. Believe me, there’s nothing like seeing places on foot.

What do people say?

Popular private tours, christian tour of jerusalem, jerusalem old city classic tour, tel aviv highlights tour, request a private tour today.

Step Into The Wild With Our Israel Trail Tours

“Walk through the land in the length of it and in the breadth of it” – Gen. 13:17

When our CEO, Avihai Tsabari, walked the Israel Trail – 700 miles in 54 days – it changed his life. To share this remarkable journey, Via Sabra offers an 11 day (or as many days as you like!) hike-and-drive down the best and most beautiful parts of the Israel Trail. Traveling from the very top of Israel to the farthest point south on the trail, guests take in a stunning and comprehensive view of our incredible country. Click here  to view information about our upcoming trip.

• Lead a trip suitable for almost all fitness levels (even non-hikers!). If you can walk four miles through easy terrain, we can accommodate your speed.
• Show you the best and most beautiful parts of the Israel Trail, a top 10 hike in the world by National Geographic.
• Take you glamping under the stars at Makhtesh Ramon .
• Introduce incredible and varied landscapes of Israel, from green hills to extreme desert, caves, sea, and urban centers.
• Share the diversity of Israeli peoples, from Tel Aviv hipsters and Kibbutznikim to Bedouins and Druzim.
• Share a group meal with a “Trail Angel,” a person who welcomes trail trekkers into his or her home.

We open by leading guests in the  Shehechiyanu , a Jewish blessing for the miracle of the moment, and a “Compass Ceremony” to center our journey.

Via Sabra invites guests on half- or full-day walking tours trekking Israel, including Tel Dan Nature Reserve, Mount Meron, Haifa, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, the Negev, and Ramon Crater.

For half-day hikers, the second part of our days are dedicated to learning about Israel from diverse experts and eating at local hotspots.

Sleep at hotels,  kibbutzim  and under the stars at beautiful glamping sites throughout our adventure.

or keep on reading…

My Trail, Your Trail, Our Trail

Every now and then, I feel a strong pull to go out into nature – to a place not far from home, a place that changes with every season. I think about interesting people I will meet along the way, about stopping under a random tree where I can pull out my stove, boil water to make Turkish coffee, and talk about life and its beauty with my fellow explorers. Spanning more than 1000km across Israel, the perfect place for all of this is the Israel National Trail (שביל ישראל).

The trail has been dubbed one of the world’s most epic trails by National Geographic. But, for one who has hiked the Himalayas, climbed the Alps, made his way through Scandinavian forests and fjords, what could possibly be so unique about the Israel Trail?

I want to tell you a story that will highlight what I mean when I say that the Israel Trail is “so much more than a hike”…

In May, I was hiking part of the trail in the south of Israel, crossing “Makhtesh Ramon”, the Ramon Crater, which usually takes 3 days to hike across. It was hot and dry, so I made sure to carry a lot of water and food. I also knew I could rely on the “ Trail Angels ” – people with great hearts who live close to the trail and assist hikers with whatever they may need – be it to fill water bottles, charge cell phones, provide a hot shower, or any other aid needed. The day was very long, and I ran out of water. The bottles hidden along the trail by the angels were already empty when I saw them. What should I do? There was no mobile reception, and no other random hikers that day because it also happened to be Yom HaZikaron – Israel’s Memorial Day for its fallen soldiers. It’s a day to be with family and loved ones, and very few people travel on that day. I started to worry.

Having only my instincts to follow, I hid from the burning sun, under a rock, for 4 hours. Knowing that I had to make it to the main road (10km from where I was located) without dehydrating, I started walking. After a couple of hours, I saw a camel standing near a bush with two of its legs tied together so it wouldn’t escape. I realized that this meant that there was someone nearby! I crawled into that bush and there he was – an old man, likely a member of a local Bedouin tribe. This man looked at me, and, without exchanging any words, he understood my situation. He shared his tea with me to help me regain some of my strength. He then took my bottle and proceeded to fill it from the camel’s sack.  

Later that evening- while celebrating Yom Ha’Atzmaut – Israel’s Independence Day, at the “kibbutz” next to the main road – I couldn’t help but think about the miracles and legends we hear about the prophet, Elijah. Locals say he appears in various and unknown ways to provide help when needed. Maybe that man was Elijah, maybe he wasn’t. But he was my Elijah that day. This true “angel” exemplifies why this trail is more than a hike – it’s also about the people and the culture that make up this trail.

Yet this trail is not just about the nature, views and even the angels we encounter along the way – it’s about the chance to connect to one’s self and one’s roots . When I walk along the trail and there is a monument, or a mark of some sort that is connected to Israeli history – be it from biblical or modern times – we feel connected . While my son and I were planning his bar mitzvah, we decided that we would hike the Israel Trail, symbolizing his journey into adulthood . Hiking the Israel trail with him and some of his best friends was a unique way for him to learn about his roots, to explore the land he lives in and to better understand the Israeli chain of generations rooted to these springs, olive and oak trees and limestone rock found along the trails. It was also an incredibly special way for us to strengthen our bond.

So, if you want to connect – to Israel and its culture, and to yourself and your heritage, come hike the “Israel trail”. I guarantee you will come out with a better understanding of at least 3 very precious things – yourself, your neighbor, and the land of Israel.

Segev Ben Shalom Via Sabra Tour Guide

Start Your Adventure

Or drop us an email, modal title.

Want to hear about trips like this one in the future? we send emails considerately

Would you like to stay in touch?

Early bird special - $200 off per person.

Available only between october 1-10, 2021.

Registration for the trip will open on October 1. Fill out this form to be notified when registration for the trip opens, so you can take advantage of early bird special pricing!

Israel Trails

Tourism Services

ISRAEL TRAILS

SEE ISRAEL LIKE NEVER BEFORE

WE ARE ISRAEL TRAILS

From city walking tours to multi-day treks, Israel Trails is here for you. With our expert tour guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism, we are committed to your safety, education, and entertainment. Be in touch today.

Professional Guides

Beautiful Trails

Lifelong Memories

OUR SERVICES

Join us on a half or full day tour with one of our guides.

Half Day Tour

Meet your guide on location and hear the untold story - every site is better with a guide!

Full Day Tour

Have a guide ride along in your private vehicle for a tour or hike, or enjoy an in-depth city walking tour.

Full Day Tour with Transportation

Ride the road in comfort, see the sites, and even turn off-road and take the path less traveled! 

HEAR FROM OUR EXPLORERS

"Jonny took us on a private half-day hike in Makhtesh Hakatan. Everything ran smoothly, all we had to do was meet him at the entrance to the hotel. He even provided us with water bottles! Highly recommended."

• Feb 23, 2021

Israel National Trail Day 11: Ras Ali to Isfiya

• Nov 21, 2020

Israel National Trail Day 9: Kfar Kisch to Mesh'had

10 Awesome and Accessible Walks in Israel

SHARE YOUR @ISRAELTRAILS MOMENTS!

tag @israeltrails on instagram to share the love...

Western wall, day

Map of Old City

Jerusalem at dawn

Cardo, Old City

Western wall, night

Church of the Holy Sepulcher, Old City

Dome of the Rock, Old City

Tower of David and the King David hotel

Church roof, Old City

Guided Hiking and Walking in Israel Tours

The Israel Travel Company specialises in custom designed private guide tours of Jerusalem.

Our Jerusalem private tour descriptions are flexible suggestions and we invite you to design with us your own personal guided tour of Jerusalem.

• ← Prev Hotel
• Next Hotel→

Israel Tours - Photos

• ← Past Offers
• Future Offers →

Limited Time Offers!

Take advantage of these special limited time offers. Call now and save up to 15% (123) 456-7890

Zaatar - Israel Walking Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Zaatar - Israel Walking Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Israel Tours
• Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history Tours
• Walking tours

Israel Walking Tours 2024/2025

From the cobbled streets of Jerusalem’s Old City brimming with religious and historical significance, to the charming alleys of Jaffa where ancient tradition intertwines with modern culture, Israel walking tours will take you on a fascinating journey through the country’s ancient past and vibrant present. Scroll down to see our Israel walking tours.

• Israel Travel Guide
• Best Time to Visit Israel

1 Walking tours

• Starts Tel Aviv, Israel
• Ends Jerusalem, Israel

Classic Israel & the Palestinian Territories

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Art and architecture & Walking tours 'data-more-tripid='18180'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Private Vehicle & 4WD Jeep
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Oct 17 10+ seats left
• Nov 28 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Israel Walking Tours

Highlights of Israel walking tours

• Experience the bustling streets of Tel Aviv by exploring its Bauhaus architecture, lively markets and vibrant cultural scene.
• Take a walking tour through Bethlehem's historic streets, visiting religious sites like the Church of the Nativity and the Shepherd's Field.
• Hike through the lush oasis of Ein Gedi and enjoy waterfalls, natural pools and abundant wildlife nestled in the arid Judean Desert.
• Explore the narrow alleys of Safed, a city rich in Jewish mysticism and art, and home to numerous galleries and ancient synagogues.
• Venture into the vast Negev Desert on a guided trek to discover this area's unique landscapes, canyons, and Bedouin heritage.
• Discover Galilee charm on a day trip walking tour from one of the bigger cities. Visit historic sites, see the Sea of Galilee and embrace the small village atmosphere.
• Explore the ruins of Caesarea and the mighty fortress of Masada, uncovering some of the country’s incredibly-preserved history.

Travel tips for Israel walking tour

• Pay attention to places restricted to tourists. Seek advice from your tour guide if you are unsure.
• Be prepared for the Sabbath (Shabbat). It starts on Friday at sunset until sunset on Saturday. Carry extra cash as it might be difficult to exchange money during this time.
• Adhere to modest dress codes by covering shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.
• Be respectful when taking photos of people or religious sites, and ask for permission when necessary. Some sites may require you to pay extra money to take pictures and videos.

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

Jerusalem Old City Walking Tour

Our self-guided walking tour in the old city of jerusalem will take you to narrow picturesque alleys, famous sites, and interesting, lesser-known historical landmarks., main landmarks on the ths tour, christian quarter:.

• Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem
• Armenian Ceramic Center
• Monastery of Saint Saviour
• Ethiopian Patriarchate
• El-Khanqa Street
• Church of the Redeemer (Viewpoint)

JEWISH QUARTER:

• Hurba Synagogue
• Wohl Archaeological Museum
• The Burnt House
• Western Wall

WALKING TOUR MAP

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.

Price from: 140 NIS

Details & Booking

The tour is not circular. It starts at the Jaffa Gate and ends at the Dung Gate near the Western Wall. Both locations are well served by public transportation , and it is the recommended way to make the tour.

If you prefer to arrive by car , you can park at the nearby Mamila Parking. At the end of the tour Return by bus, or walk back about 10-15 minutes.

The old city of Jerusalem is roughly a square of 1 Kilometer by 1 Kilometer surrounded by the city walls. It is hard to imagine it today, but Until around 1850, this area was the entire city of Jerusalem. Only in the 2nd half of the 19th-century residents started to move gradually outside the city walls .

The Ottomans built the current walls and most of the buildings that exist today during the 16th century. However, these “modern” structures are built above ancient foundations. The streets we walk in today are about 2-4 meters above the Roman city and about 4-8 meters above the first-temple period city. The Old City is divide into the Muslim, Christian, Armenian and Jewish Quarters. This division evolved gradually, and the current designations that are common nowadays were introduced only in the 19th century.

Armenian Quarter : The Quarter is surrounded by its own walls and forms a private enclosed area of the Armenian Monastery. It is the smallest Quarter, with a population of about 3,000.

Muslim Quarter : It is the largest one with a population of about 30,000. It is mostly an impoverished and densely populated residential neighborhood with less historic buildings and tourist attractions. However, part of the Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross) passes through it, and the Western Wall Tunnel (Highly recommended visit) passes under it.

Jewish Quarter: Its origin is from the same period as the rest of the old city. However, in 1948, when the Jordanians occupied the eastern part of Jerusalem, they demolished and burned down most of the house and 58 synagogues , including the 700-year-old Hurva synagogue that was destroyed and desecrated. The Quarter stayed in this state for 19 years, until the IDF liberated Jerusalem in 1967. Shortly afterward, Israel started to restore the Jewish Quarter. Because most of the buildings are new (After 1967), the area looks “White” compared to the other parts of the old city. The restoration project presented a rare opportunity for archeological excavations. Thanks to that, today, we can visit parts of ancient Jerusalem under the current modern streets.

Our tour focuses on the Christain and Jewish Quarters . In the Christain quarter, we will visit famous landmarks. However, in between, we will walk in small streets, visit hidden courtyards, unique shops, and fantastic viewpoints of the old city. In the Jewish Quarter, we will explore the 2,000 years old remains of ancient Jerusalem, hidden underneath the modern streets.

OLD CITY SELF-GUIDED WALKING TOUR

Christian quarter section map.

On this guided day tour of Judea and Samaria we will take you to three of the highlights of the region – Bethlehem, Jericho and Ramallah. With thorough information provided by a local guide.

Price from: 400 NIS

Latin Patriarchate: Admission: Free. Opening Hours: Monday-Friday, 08:00-14:00 Location: St. Peter street . Direction: Just after you enter the city through Jaffa gate, Turn left to the Latin Patriarchate Street and walk until the intersection with St. Peter Street.

The center of the Catholic Church is located in the Vatican state in Rome. The Pope’s representative in Jerusalem is known as the “ Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem “, and his job is to safeguard the interests of the Catholic Church in the Holy Land. The first appointment of a Latin patriarch in the Land of Israel was in 1099 AD. But when the Crusaders were expelled from the land, the Latin Patriarchate also ceased to exist. In the mid-19th century, the Catholic Church noticed the weakness of the Ottomans and renewed its representation in Jerusalem after more than 550 years. Giuseppe Valerga was the first Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem in modern times. He wanted to show the wealth and splendor of the Catholic Church also in Jerusalem. The result is a large cathedral paved with marble, decorated with dozens of sculptures and filled with countless paintings. In 1872, Vallerga inaugurated the Cathedral, which is still one of the most impressive in Israel.

Armenian pottery started to develop in the 11th century. However, Armenian ceramics reached unprecedented levels of finesse and originality during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, when many Armenian families operated workshops in Turkey, and contributed to decorating palaces and mansions. Armenian traditional ceramic artists arrived at Jerusalem in 1919 to help replace the centuries-old glazed tiles decorating the Dome of the Rock. The task was never completed, but the tradition rooted in Jerusalem. Jerusalem is now the only place in the world where traditional Armenian pottery is still preserved. The Sandrouni workshop is one of the finest spots to explore and buy original Armenian handmade pottery. (Watch out for the many imitations on display in the market streets!)

Saint Saviors Convent: Admission: Free. Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday, 08:00-17:00 Location: St Francis street . Direction: Exit the ceramic shop and Walk down on Ahim Street about 100 meters and turn left to St. Francis street. After a few meters, you will see the entrance to the convent on your left.

Saint Savoirs is the headquarter of the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land ( Custodia Terræ Sanctæ ). Saint Francis founded the order in 1209. Its mission is to guard “the grace of the Holy Places” of the Holy Land and the rest of the Middle East, as well as pilgrims visiting them, on behalf of the Catholic Church. Their presence in Jerusalem is traced back to 1217. The original building built in 1559 with the aid of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent . However, the current Church and Convent were constructed in 1885 with funding provided by the Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph during his visit to Jerusalem in 1869. The compound houses today also a Catholic school, printing press, and an organ workshop. In 2017 Pope Francis renewed the mandate to “Preserve the Holy Places of Christianity in the Holy Land” in commemoration of the 800th anniversary of Franciscan presence. In addition to the historical importance, the impressive Basilica hall (30 X 12 meters), is well worth a visit.

The building we are about to visit is from 1890. It was built to serve as the administrative center of the community. At the heart of the complex is a small church decorated in a traditional Ethiopian style. The church floor is carpeted, and its ceiling is full of colorful illustrations featuring characters and stories from the New Testament. You can have a look at an ancient 400-year-old book with texts from the Old and a New Testament. The book is written in the Geez language (Ethiopian holy language). After the tour of the small church, go up to the roof of the building for a fantastic panorama of the old city.

• Residential Courtyard: Look for house number 44 on your left and enter through the small door into an internal courtyard. It is a fine example of a residential compound. In the center of the yard, there is a water well and the surrounding houses feature door lintels painted in bright blue color. Wander around and absorb the tranquil atmosphere.
•   Elia Photo Service: Continue a few minutes further on El Khanqa street until house number 12, and you will see on your right an entrance to a small photo shop filled with historical B&W photos and unique nostalgic atmosphere.

The interior of the Church of the holy sepulcher and its surrounding is one of the most crowded tourist spots in Jerusalem (We do not cover it on this tour since it is very well covered elsewhere). The main reason to visit the Church of the Redeemer is the fantastic panorama of the old city from the top of its 40 meters tower. It is the best view of the old city since you are high above the street right in the middle of the old city (All other high locations are around the old city and not inside!).

The Church was built between 1893 and 1898. Its cornerstone was laid by the Prussian prince Frederick III as part of his visit to the Middle East to participate in the opening of the Suez Canal. The land was given as a gift to the Prussian heir by the Ottoman Sultan. The church was inaugurated in  1898, during the visit of the German Emperor Wilhelm II, his son, and Empress Augusta Victoria. On one of the walls of the prayer hall hangs a sign in the German language that tells of the dedication and establishment of the house. There are also archeological excavations and a museum in the church. You can find all the details on the excellent official website .

The Muristan is a complex of streets and shops that cover a square area spanning between the holy sepulcher and David Street (The main street of the old city leading to Jaffa gate). The market in the form as we know it today was established in 1903 by the Greek-Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem. At the center of the market, there is an ornamental water fountain , which was built to mark 25 years of the rule of the Ottoman sultan Abdul Hamid. The name “Muristan” comes from the Persian word for a hospital  (Bim?rest?n).  It originates from the fact that during the crusader period, a complex of a Church and hospital was operating here. However, the history of the area starts as early as the days of Christ. You can learn more about it at the Museum in the Church of the Redeemer . Ramble through the streets and the shops and make your way towards David street and the Jewish Quarter where the tour continues.

JEWISH QUARTER SECTION MAP

The Cardo was the “Main Street” of Jerusalem during the Roman period. Nowadays, it is an underground street under the new houses of the Jewish Quarter. The Northern half of the street (Where we enter), was turned into a modern shopping street with fancy boutique shops. The Southern half is a restoration of the Roman street. As we walk, we can peek through peers in the pavement down to remnants from ancient Jerusalem (700 BCE), while above us are the modern, residential houses.

Hurba Synagogue: Admission: 20 NIS. Opening Hours: Sunday-Thursday 09:00-17:00, Friday 09:00-13:00. Location: HaYehudim Street #89 . Direction: Go up from the Cardo street, turn left, and after a few meters, you will be in front of the Synagogue.

The Hurba synagogue was built in 1864 and served as the most important Ashkenazy synagogue in the land of Israel. It became a center for religious and national revival for jews in the land of Israel. Around the synagogue, some of the most important institutions of the Ashkenazi community in Jerusalem were concentrated: Yeshiva, Court, Charity institutions and religious schools. In 1948, when the Jordanian army conquered the Jewish Quarter they demolished it with explosives. Only in 2010 (after 62 years), the synagogue was restored and reopened. The design was based on testimonials and old pictures. Most of the eastern wall is the original wall from 1864. It was not painted and therefore, creates a sharp contrast to the modern white walls. Besides visiting the impressive synagogue hall, there are interesting archeological findings from the second-temple period and Byzantine period in the basement floor. Round up the visit with an excellent 360° panorama from the balcony that encircles the dome.

You descend again from the street level, down to 2,000 years old history. The excavations that took place here after 1967 revealed a magnificent residential quarter from the second-temple period. The findings include mosaic floors, water wells, Mikveh , and warehouses.

The “burnt house” is a second-temple period residential building that was also discovered during the excavations in the Jewish Quarter. Unlike the Wohl Museum, this house was found in ruins and with fire signs. The tiny museum presents the fascinating findings discovered in the excavations. However. the remains are disappointing compared with the display in the Whol Museum. The main attraction is an Audio-Visual show. The movie describes life in Jerusalem during the months preceding the destruction of the second temple.

• Put a note with your wishes between the stones of the Western Wall.
• Visit the Western Wall tunnels.
• Visit the Temple Mount.
• Visit the City of David.

Written by Erez Speiser

Find Us On Facebook

Follow Us On Instagram

Join Our Mailing List

Life-changing Tours Since 1987 - Call Us Toll Free: 800.322.0788

Tours to the Holy Land: Trips & Israel Tour Packages 2024, 2025

"Every place we visited was breathtakingly beautiful, with stunning landscapes and rich historical and cultural heritage. We highly recommend visiting Israel to anyone who wants to experience an unforgettable journey. We had a life-changing time there and are already planning to return." Simon L. and Beatriz G. – Tour to Israel/Egypt/Jordan February 2024 "I had a wonderful time in Israel. I felt while I was there the precautions that were taken for our safety were well in hand. I still got to experience many holy sites and be blessed by walking the path that Jesus walked. Every day was started in prayer, singing, or scripture reading which also extended the blessing of the trip." Quincie L. – Tour to Israel/Egypt/Jordan February 2024

Our Israel tours & Holy Land tours of 9-24 days for the Evangelical Protestant Bible believer are what Pilgrim Tours does best. Prepare yourself for a life-changing journey to walk where Jesus walked and visit Jerusalem, Galilee, & Samaria. Each of our Israel tours is led by a local guide who is an experienced expert on the historical, cultural, scenic, and spiritual history of the Holy Land. If you travel with 10 or more people, a private group tour can easily be arranged. Pilgrim Tours can customize an itinerary to fit your group needs with many options to choose from.

Concerned about safety? As a Christian tour operator, the staff at Pilgrim Tours takes a Biblical perspective regarding the current situation in the Middle East. We do not believe that peace in Israel is something that will occur until the Prince of Peace comes to restore His kingdom. Please do not make a reservation with us based on the hopes of a calm future. If you long for the special blessings only available in Israel, we will take you there. An expert driver and guide will carefully keep you from any areas that could present a problem and treat you to the riches of Israel as our special guest.

Below is a large variety of Israel tour packages departing in 2024 and 2025 year-round.

View Our New Israel Tour Highlights Video! Click Here

Reserve your tour at least 6 months in advance for an early booking discount, groups and parties of 6 or more click here for special rates, scheduled 2024 & 2025 israel tours.

View our Israel tours ranging from 9-24 days.

Take a tour of a lifetime and bring the Bible to life.

Featured Sites in Israel

Explore a vast selection of beautiful historical and Biblical locations throughout Israel with our Israel Holy Land tour. You can visit Jerusalem, Galilee, and parts of Samaria, getting the life-changing opportunity to see where Jesus and many other Biblical figures lived and walked. We even offer Holy Land tours that allow you to see the Dead Sea, the Garden Tomb, and the Jordan River Baptism Site. Like all of our Europe tours , our Israel Holy Land tours are led by local guides who have extensive knowledge of the area and its history. If you want to experience the history of Israel and see the Bible come to life, our Holy Land tours give you that opportunity.

The city of Jerusalem offers a unique convergence of Judaism, Christianity, and the Muslim faith. For Christians who visit Jerusalem, you will learn about many stories of the Bible while walking her streets. Many actors in the Bible such as Abraham, King David, King Solomon, the twelve disciples and Jesus all lived, visited, or spent time there. The Passion week of Christ will be highlighted during our stay as we visit the Mount of Olives, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Western Wall, the Way of Suffering, and the Garden Tomb.

Sea of Galilee

Nowhere in Israel does the Bible come to life more than along the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Pilgrims who visit the Galilee region have the opportunity to imagine what life was like 2,000 years ago and what Jesus and the twelve disciples experienced while fishing on the Sea of Galilee. The peaceful setting and the natural wonders of the Golan Heights to the east and Mt. Arbel to the west make for a great way to start your morning in quiet reflection. During our tour, we explore the Biblical towns of Capernaum, Magdala, and Nazareth and take a meaningful cruise on the Sea of Galilee.

The Dead Sea is not only the lowest and most lifeless lake in the world, but also nearly 10 times saltier than the ocean. Travelers will enjoy the beautiful colors of the blue water and the red mountains of Jordan to the east. Take time to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime Dead Sea “float” either in the sea itself or at one of the warm salt water pools at our hotel. The Dead Sea experience is truly a bucket list visit you won’t want to miss!

Garden Tomb

Our visit to the Garden Tomb and its surrounding gardens is normally one of the highlights of our tour to Israel. The Garden Tomb is a rock-cut tomb in Jerusalem that was unearthed in 1867 and is considered by some Protestants to be the site of the burial and resurrection of Jesus. Our visit offers a unique time of prayer, reflection, communion, and praise, which will be a special life-long memory for many travelers.

Jordan River Baptism Site

The Jordan River Baptist Site or “Yardenit” is a baptism site located along the Jordan River just south of the Sea of Galilee in northern Israel. This site is frequented by Christian Pilgrims who enjoy imagining the setting of the baptism of Jesus. For anyone who would like to be baptized in the Jordan River, Yardenit has been developed to be a peaceful setting with beautiful gardens, clean colored water, changing facilities, showers, and a nice souvenir shop.

Caesarea Philippi

To many Pilgrim travelers, Caesarea Philippi is a special surprise while on their tour. Located along the rushing springs of Mt. Hermon, the beautiful and natural setting is where Jesus asked his disciples “Who do men say that I am?” He asked this question while observing the pagan worship of the god Pan as worshipers offered their sacrifice at the “Gates of Hell.” Our time at Caesarea Philippi is one of many opportunities throughout our tour to see the lessons and message of the Bible come to light in a special way.

Israel Tours: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month for the Holy Land tour?

Taking a trip to Israel during the spring or fall offers the most enjoyable weather of the year but normally has the largest crowds. If you want to enjoy a peaceful tour with fewer crowds, consider visiting between December and February or June and August. We offer Israel and Jordan tours throughout the year, so you can select a trip that works for your schedule.

How many days do you need for a Holy Land tour?

We offer several types of tours of the Holy Land, so the duration of your tour depends on the tour package you choose. The Best of Israel Tour is our most basic offering and includes a Sea of Galilee boat ride, a trip to the Jordan River Baptism Site, the Dead Sea, and many opportunities to walk on the same land Jesus walked on. This is our shortest trip at just 9 or 10 days. Our most involved trips allow you to experience a wide range of historical locations over the course of a few weeks. Egypt tours are included in some of these packages, as well as tours in Greece and other countries. These tours can take up to 24 days, giving you the chance to spend an extended period of time learning about and visiting different parts of the world. From our Turkey tours to all of our Israel Christian tours, all of our tours feature a first-class hotel rating for the country you visit. We do offer some upgraded tours that offer better lodging options. You can review our hotel categories at https://www.pilgrimtours.com/company/hotelcomparison.htm . Check out any of our tours to view a day-by-day itinerary and see what amenities are included with each tour.

What is the dress code in Israel?

The dress code in Israel is different from other parts of the world. There are a few dress code basics you should understand before booking Israel tours: When you’re in Israel, there is no strict dress code. You can wear what you feel comfortable wearing. However, both men and women should try to dress conservatively and cover their shoulders and knees when visiting any of the religious sites throughout Israel. Generally speaking, it’s best to avoid tank tops and shorts. Men need to cover their heads when visiting the Western Wall. Pilgrim Tours provides a Pilgrim Tours ball cap upon arrival in Israel, but you might consider purchasing an affordable kippa that you can bring when you visit Jewish sites. Some places may offer a free kippa, but these are generally low quality. (Women are not required to cover their heads at any sight.) You can figure out what you need to pack and how to dress each day by looking at the itinerary for our Holy Land tours. Guides normally offer guidance on how to dress for the next day while on tour. We also suggest looking at the extended weather forecast as you prepare and pack for your trip.

Is there a lot of walking involved on an Israel Tour?

Our Israel tours do require a significant amount of walking each day and you should be able to walk unassisted 3-4 miles per day on average. Make sure you have a comfortable pair of shoes that provide adequate support. While there are bus and boat rides during these tours, you have to walk quite a bit to explore some of the Biblical sites. Our tour guides normally give the group a few options at sites for those that have physical limitations. One thing to keep in mind is that there are many hills and valleys in Israel which can make walking even more taxing. The amount of walking you have to do may vary based on the tour you take, so look at the itinerary before choosing your tour. The good news is that Israel is a beautiful country to see on foot, and you’ll have several opportunities to sit down and give your feet a rest. As long as you have a good pair of shoes and comfortable clothes, it’s easy to forget about all the walking you’re doing and enjoy the tour.

What passport & visa information do I need for your Israel tours?

U.S. citizens need a valid U.S. passport with at least six months validity beyond their intended stay to enter Israel. Make two photocopies of your passport. Leave one copy at home and carry the other separately from your original. Israel: U.S. and Canadian Citizens do not need a Visa when entering Israel. Non U. S. /Canadian Citizens are responsible to fulfill appropriate entry requirements of destination. Contact your Consulate office for requirements.

What common languages will be spoken during your Israel tours?

Hebrew, Arabic and English.

What currency can I use on your Israel tours?

The U.S. dollar is widely accepted across Israel, and we suggest bringing about $30 for each day you’ll be on tour. U.S. dollars are recommended for use for small purchases and lunches. Lunches typically cost $15-20. It is important to bring about 20 $1 bills as some bathrooms charge a small fee for use. Credit cards may also be used for larger purchases. ATMs in Israel are all connected to European and American banking systems. Please be advised that the ATM machines dispense money in SHEKELS – NOT U.S. DOLLARS. Please notify your bank before traveling overseas.

Do I need to bring a converter for the Israel tour?

Israel uses the European plug with two round pins. You will need to bring along the necessary converters and adapters to operate any 120 volt appliances such as hair dryers and electric razors as well as camera and cell phone chargers. Electricity in Israel is 220 volts 50 Hz.

What is the time zone for your Israel tours?

The time zone for Israel is seven hours ahead of EST and two hours ahead of GMT.

What climate should I expect during your Israel tours?

In Israel the climate is temperate, and temperatures all year-round are reasonable. Israel has two main seasons: winter (from November to March) is cold and rainy in most parts of the country; summer (from April to October) is hot and dry with little or no rainfall. The desert areas can be extremely hot in summer time.

Recent Reviews on Trustpilot, BBB, & Google

View what others are saying about our Israel tours on Trustpilot , BBB , and Google !

"Pilgrim tours is who I'll be recommending people to travel with. We've been trying to get to Israel for two years and finally made it!! Great company from booking to on the ground with great guides. All details taken care of with great hotels, bus, and the best guides!! Wonderful experience!"

"We had a great experience in Israel with Pilgrim Tours. Everything went very well and there were no glitches or problems of any kind. The bus and driver were top notch as were the hotels and daily breakfast buffets. Our tour guide was great as his depth of knowledge of the people, history and languages Israel was quite amazing. We will very likely use Pilgrim again in the future."

"We have toured with Pilgrim Tours three times and what a blessing. Accommodations, excursions, information and food were all high quality. Post pandemic, we were so thankful to return to Israel."

"I couldn't have asked for more for a trip to the Holy Land than what Pilgrim Tours provided me. It was the perfect balance of spiritual reverence, history, geography, and social issues. I am so grateful for the experience that I had on this trip."

"Our church group just returned from taking a "Best of Israel" ten day tour. It was one of the best experiences of my life. I am so glad we chose Pilgrim tours. From our excellent hotel accommodations, to our wonderful tour guide, we enjoyed everything. Our trip exceeded our expectations. I would recommend Pilgrim Tours to anyone who is planning a trip to the Holy Land. We definitely plan to travel with them again."

View some of the sites from our Israel tours!

Free walking tour near Tel Aviv-Yafo

Others cities to visit after tel aviv-yafo, where are you traveling to.