Tour Includes
About the Trip
Trip Highlights
- Vibrant Tel Aviv, with its golden beaches, buzzing energy and world-class food, is a delightful highlight of this journey. Tel Aviv is a dynamic, cosmopolitan, endlessly enjoyable city, where a long strip of golden Mediterranean beach meets a buzzing city of markets, cafes, galleries and legendary nightlife. You relax on the beaches, stroll the seafront promenade, explore the trendy neighbourhoods of Neve Tzedek and Florentin, and, above all, dive into one of the world's great food scenes, from vibrant market stalls and hummus to fine dining. The energy, creativity and Mediterranean beauty of Tel Aviv are irresistible.
- Tel Aviv's remarkable 'White City' of Bauhaus architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a fascinating highlight. Tel Aviv has the largest concentration of Bauhaus and International Style buildings in the world, some 4,000 of them, built by European architects from the 1930s, earning the city's 'White City' UNESCO World Heritage status. You explore its elegant, clean-lined buildings, curved balconies and shaded boulevards, learning about the extraordinary story of this modernist city rising from the sand. The architecture reveals a fascinating and beautiful chapter of the city's history. Exploring Tel Aviv's remarkable 'White City' of Bauhaus architecture.
- Ancient Jaffa, one of the oldest ports in the world, offers atmospheric charm and beautiful views, a lovely highlight. Just south of modern Tel Aviv lies ancient Jaffa (Yafo), one of the oldest ports in the world, mentioned in the Bible and steeped in millennia of history and legend. You wander its beautifully restored winding stone lanes, artists' quarter and galleries, visit its old harbour, churches and flea market, and take in beautiful views back along the Tel Aviv coastline, especially lovely at sunset. The atmospheric charm and deep history of Jaffa are captivating.
- The spectacular Roman ruins of Caesarea, on the Mediterranean shore, are a magnificent highlight of this journey. Caesarea, built by Herod the Great as a grand Roman port city, is one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in Israel, beautifully set on the Mediterranean shore. You explore its magnificent ruins, the restored Roman theatre, the hippodrome, the harbour, palaces, and Crusader fortifications, all beside the sparkling sea, and learn its rich history, from Herod and the Romans to the apostle Paul and the Crusaders. The combination of magnificent ruins and beautiful seaside setting is captivating.
- The beautiful Bahai Gardens of Haifa and the Crusader city of Akko add beauty and history to this journey, a lovely highlight. In Haifa, the beautiful Bahai Gardens cascade in nineteen immaculate terraces down the slopes of Mount Carmel around the golden-domed Shrine of the Bab, a breathtaking, serene sight and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with sweeping views over the bay. Nearby, the atmospheric old city of Akko (Acre) is a beautifully preserved Crusader and Ottoman port, with its underground Crusader halls, markets and harbour, also UNESCO-listed. These beautiful, historic sites add depth and beauty to your coastal journey.
- Above all, this journey offers Israel's vibrant modern face and beautiful Mediterranean coast, a sophisticated and thoroughly enjoyable escape. Tel Aviv is one of the most dynamic and enjoyable cities in the Mediterranean, and, paired with the beautiful coast beyond, it offers a vibrant, sophisticated journey. Over six days you soak up Tel Aviv's beaches, Bauhaus streets, markets and world-class food, wander ancient Jaffa, and explore the spectacular coast, Caesarea, Haifa's Bahai Gardens and Crusader Akko, with the option of a day trip to sacred Jerusalem. The combination of vibrant beach-city energy, superb food, remarkable architecture and beautiful, historic coast makes this a sophisticated and enjoyable journey.
Day by Day
A detailed day-by-day plan for this 6-day journey.
Your journey begins as your flight arrives at Ben Gurion Airport, where you are met and transferred to your hotel in vibrant Tel Aviv, moments from the golden Mediterranean beaches. Tel Aviv is one of the most dynamic and enjoyable cities in the Mediterranean, and its buzzing, beachside energy is immediately infectious. Spend the rest of the day settling in and relaxing after your journey, taking a first stroll along the seafront promenade, dipping your toes in the warm sea, relaxing on the beach, or exploring a nearby neighbourhood and its cafes and bars. This evening, a welcome dinner introduces you to one of the world's great food scenes and to the journey ahead through Tel Aviv and the beautiful coast. As you settle in, the vibrant, sophisticated, beachside energy of Tel Aviv works its magic. Rest well, ready to explore this dynamic city.
Today you explore vibrant Tel Aviv with your guide. You take in the golden beaches and seafront promenade, and explore the remarkable 'White City' of Bauhaus architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the largest concentration of Bauhaus buildings in the world, learning the story of this modernist city rising from the sand. You wander the trendy, creative neighbourhoods of Neve Tzedek and Florentin, with their boutiques, galleries and street art, and explore the vibrant Carmel Market, alive with colour, spices, produce and street food. Above all, you dive into Tel Aviv's world-class food scene. As the day ends, you have time to relax on the beach or explore further. This evening, savour Tel Aviv's legendary dining and nightlife, from beachfront restaurants to buzzing bars, experiencing the vibrant energy of this dynamic Mediterranean city.
Today you explore ancient Jaffa and enjoy the coast. You wander the beautifully restored old port of Jaffa (Yafo), one of the oldest ports in the world, steeped in history and legend, exploring its winding stone lanes, artists' quarter and galleries, its old harbour, churches and flea market, with beautiful views back along the Tel Aviv coastline. You might continue along the coast or return to enjoy Tel Aviv's beaches, perhaps relaxing on the sand, swimming in the warm Mediterranean, or trying a water sport. The atmospheric charm of Jaffa and the beach-city pleasures of Tel Aviv are captivating. As the day ends, perhaps watch the sunset over the sea from Jaffa or the promenade, a beautiful sight. This evening, savour more of Tel Aviv's superb dining and vibrant atmosphere, exploring another of its wonderful neighbourhoods and food scenes.
Today you explore Israel's spectacular Mediterranean coast north of Tel Aviv. You visit the magnificent Roman ruins of Caesarea, built by Herod the Great, with its restored theatre, hippodrome, harbour and palaces beside the sparkling sea. You continue to Haifa, where the breathtaking Bahai Gardens cascade in nineteen immaculate terraces down Mount Carmel around the golden-domed shrine, a serene, beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site with sweeping views over the bay. You explore the atmospheric old Crusader and Ottoman city of Akko (Acre), also UNESCO-listed, with its underground Crusader halls, markets and harbour. The combination of magnificent ruins, beautiful gardens and atmospheric old cities is captivating. As the day ends, you return to Tel Aviv, having explored the beautiful, historic coast. This evening, savour a final taste of Tel Aviv's superb dining and vibrant atmosphere.
Today you can take a day trip to sacred Jerusalem, or enjoy Tel Aviv at leisure. On the Jerusalem option, you journey up to the golden, holy city and explore the sacred Old City with your guide, walking the Via Dolorosa, standing before the Western Wall, entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and gazing upon the golden Dome of the Rock, a profound and unforgettable experience, before returning to Tel Aviv in the evening. Alternatively, you might enjoy a relaxed final day in Tel Aviv, on the beach, exploring more neighbourhoods and markets, visiting a museum, or simply savouring the beach-city pleasures. As the day ends, you return to or relax in Tel Aviv. This evening, savour a final dinner in this wonderful city, reflecting on your vibrant journey through Israel's dynamic coast. Rest well ahead of your departure.
After a final, relaxed morning in Tel Aviv, perhaps a last swim in the Mediterranean or a stroll along the promenade and a final excellent breakfast or coffee, you are transferred to Ben Gurion Airport for your onward international departure. You leave having experienced Israel's vibrant modern face and beautiful Mediterranean coast, dynamic Tel Aviv with its golden beaches, Bauhaus streets, buzzing markets and world-class food, ancient Jaffa, and the spectacular coast of Caesarea, Haifa's Bahai Gardens and Crusader Akko, perhaps with a day amid the sacred wonders of Jerusalem. The images stay vivid long after you land, the golden beaches, the Bauhaus boulevards, the winding lanes of Jaffa, the magnificent Roman ruins, and the breathtaking Bahai Gardens. Tel Aviv and the coast offer vibrant energy, beautiful beaches, superb food and rich history in abundance, and you depart refreshed and already dreaming of a return to Israel's dynamic and beautiful Mediterranean shore.
Where You Will Travel
What's inside the package?
Inclusions
- 5 nights accommodation
- Daily breakfast, a welcome dinner
- Airport and land transfers in air-conditioned vehicles
- Touring and sightseeing as per itinerary with expert licensed guides
- Entrance fees to sites, national parks and museums as per itinerary
- private touring with an expert licensed guide, a Tel Aviv and Jaffa city tour, a Caesarea, Haifa and Akko coastal excursion, an optional Jerusalem day trip, and all entrance fees
Exclusions
- International airfare
- Visa or tourist card fees where applicable
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Most lunches and dinners (to enjoy Tel Aviv's superb food scene)
- Optional experiences and tips for guides and drivers
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary or inclusions
- Drinks unless specifically stated
- Optional excursions and experiences
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Anything not specifically mentioned under Package Inclusions
Know when to go.
- Visa & entry: Many nationalities can enter Israel visa-free for up to 90 days with a passport valid for at least six months; entry and exit records are usually issued on a separate card rather than stamped in the passport. Requirements can change, so we confirm the exact process for your nationality before travel
- Currency: The currency is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS); cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels and restaurants, but carry some cash for markets, small shops, tips and rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in towns and cities, and US dollars are accepted in some tourist settings
- Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the most pleasant, with warm, dry days ideal for touring; summer (June to August) is hot, especially in the desert and by the Dead Sea, while winter is mild and can be wet, with cooler days in Jerusalem
- Shabbat: The Jewish Sabbath (Shabbat) runs from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset, when many shops, restaurants and public transport (including in Jerusalem) close, though this varies by area (Tel Aviv is livelier). We plan itineraries mindful of Shabbat and holidays, and it is a peaceful, atmospheric time to experience
- Religious sites & dress: Israel's holy sites are sacred to Judaism, Christianity and Islam; dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees, and heads where required), behave respectfully, and follow site rules. Some sites have separate areas or specific customs, and your guide advises fully so your visits are respectful and rewarding
- The Dead Sea: Floating in the Dead Sea is a remarkable experience, but the water is intensely salty, so avoid shaving beforehand, keep the water away from your eyes and mouth, do not submerge your head, wear water shoes, and rinse off in fresh water afterwards. Your guide and hotel advise on safe, enjoyable bathing
- Security & travel: Israel is generally safe and well-organised for visitors, with security checks at sites, airports and public places that are routine and quick; we monitor conditions, use trusted local guides and drivers, and follow official advice at all times to ensure a safe, smooth and rewarding journey
- Getting around & power: Touring is by private air-conditioned vehicle with your guide, with distances generally short. Power is 230V with type C, H and M plugs, so bring an adapter. Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages, and English is very widely spoken, making travel easy and rewarding
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tel Aviv a good base for exploring Israel?
Excellent. Tel Aviv is central, vibrant and enjoyable, with superb food and beaches, and easy day trips along the coast to Caesarea, Haifa and Akko, and inland to Jerusalem (about an hour away). It is ideal for those who want a beach-city base with cultural and historical excursions, and pairs beautifully with a Jerusalem stay. We can extend this journey to include Jerusalem, the Galilee, the Dead Sea or more, tailoring the balance to you.
What is Tel Aviv's food scene like?
World-class. Tel Aviv is one of the great food cities of the Mediterranean, famous for its vibrant markets, superb hummus, falafel and fresh Levantine cuisine, innovative modern restaurants, buzzing cafe culture and lively bars. We leave most meals free so you can explore, and are delighted to recommend the best spots, from legendary hummus joints and market stalls to fine dining, and can arrange food tours or market experiences if you wish.
What meals are included?
Daily breakfast is included, along with any meals named in the itinerary. Israel has one of the world's great food cultures, from vibrant market stalls and hummus, falafel and fresh salads to fine dining and superb local wines, so we usually leave lunches and dinners free for you to explore the wonderful restaurants and markets, and we are delighted to recommend the best options at every stage.
Are the tours private or in a group?
Your journey is private by default, with your own expert licensed guide and air-conditioned vehicle, giving you flexibility, depth and a pace tailored to you; small-group and shared touring options can be arranged if you prefer. Israel's excellent licensed guides bring the extraordinary history, religion and culture of the Holy Land vividly to life, greatly enriching every visit.
Do I need a visa for Israel?
Many nationalities enter visa-free for up to 90 days with a passport valid for at least six months, with entry usually recorded on a separate card rather than stamped. Requirements can change, so we confirm the exact, current process for your nationality before travel, so there are no surprises. We also advise on any considerations for onward travel in the region.
Is it safe to travel in Israel?
Israel is generally safe and very well-organised for visitors, with routine, efficient security at sites and airports. We continuously monitor conditions, use trusted local guides and drivers, and follow official guidance at all times, adjusting itineraries if ever needed. The vast majority of visits are smooth and rewarding, and millions of travellers and pilgrims visit the Holy Land safely each year.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal, with warm, dry, comfortable weather for touring Jerusalem, the Galilee, the desert and the coast. Summer is hot, especially in the desert and by the Dead Sea, and winter is mild and greener, cooler in Jerusalem. We advise on the best timing for your interests and any festivals or holy days you wish to experience.
Can the itinerary be customised?
Absolutely. We can adjust the balance of religious, historical, cultural, culinary and outdoor experiences, add the Dead Sea, the Negev, Eilat, Petra in neighbouring Jordan, or more time in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv, and tailor the pace, comfort and focus to you, whether your interest is pilgrimage, history, food, or relaxation. Every itinerary is a flexible starting point for your ideal journey.
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