Essence of Israel

(9 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Jerusalem, Dead Sea, Tiberias, Haifa, Tel Aviv

Perfect for first-time and return visitors alike, “Essence of Israel” is the quintessential tour of Israel.  Begin in Jerusalem, one of the world’s most historically important cities. A city of countless monuments of enormous significance to Jews, Christians and Muslims—the entire Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site—it is also a place of great beauty, with a balmy, Mediterranean climate and year-round sunny skies warming the golden hue of its limestone buildings. Today Jerusalem is a fascinating mélange of cultures, created by the traditions culled from the diverse backgrounds and religions of its varied citizenry. Your expert private guide will bring Jerusalem and its multi-layered history alive through comprehensive touring of the city. In addition to touring well-known attractions and areas such as the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, Via Dolorosa, Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial and museum, the Mount of Olives and the Western Wall, also visit fascinating but lesser-known neighborhoods, museums, and markets. Learn about the city’s varied architectural styles, including Roman, Byzantine, Romanesque, Islamic, and Art Deco. Browse art galleries, specialty shops, markets and souks as your guide helps you experience the very best the city has to offer.
 
One day, take an excursion to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. Begin in Qumran, where the precious Dead Sea Scrolls (now located in Jerusalem’s excellent Israel Museum) were found. Continue to Masada, the historic mountaintop fortress that is today one of the Jewish people’s greatest symbols. Conclude at one of our favorite Dead Sea beaches—beautiful and away from the crowds. While there, we recommend relaxing with a float in the salt- and mineral-laden water, famous for its buoyancy and therapeutic qualities.  

Next, spend a night in Tiberias, a lovely town on the shores of the Sea of Galilee (Lake Tiberias). This area is renowned for its beautiful landscape, delicious fresh fish and proximity to a number of important historical and biblical sites. During flexible private touring, visit the highlights of the area, including Capernaum, the Mount of the Beatitudes and the Kibbutz Ginosar. If desired, take an excursion into the spectacular Golan Heights—this fertile region of springs, waterfalls and Crusader ruins is ideal hiking country.

Continue to Haifa, a picturesque city built up the side of Mount Carmel with gorgeous views to the Mediterranean coast. En route, tour the ancient and mystical city of Safed, one of the four holy cities of the Talmud and the birthplace of the Kabbalah. Today it is an important center of Jewish religious studies, as well as home to a large colony of artists and art galleries.

Conclude in Tel Aviv, where you will spend two nights in a Mediterranean seaside resort. Enjoy private touring of the city’s most interesting sites, such as Old Jaffa, Museum of the Jewish Diaspora, the Bauhaus architecture district, and art galleries in the Neve Tzedek neighborhood. En route to Tel Aviv, tour the Roman ruins of Caesarea, one of Israel’s major archaeological sites.

Throughout the tour, sightseeing is very flexible and tailored to your interests, and accommodation is in top rooms at Israel's leading luxury properties.

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.
Call us at (800) 214-8144 for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.