Israel is a small country with a big history and an even bigger list of things to see and do. From ancient ruins and holy sites to modern cities and breathtaking natural beauty, Israel has something for every kind of traveler. If you’re planning a trip here’s an Israel itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in this amazing country.
Day 1: Arrival and Jerusalem
Welcome to Israel! After you arrive in the country, take some time to rest and get settled in your hotel. To start the first day of your Israel itinerary, head out to explore the city of Jerusalem, one of the oldest and holiest cities in the world. Start by walking through the Old City, where you’ll find the Western Wall (also known as the Wailing Wall), the Dome of the Rock, and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. As you wander through the winding streets and alleys of the Old City, you’ll be surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of the Middle East. Book a private day tour of the Old City of Jerusalem by clicking here.
In the evening, experience Jerusalem’s vibrant nightlife in Shuk Mahane Yehuda. This lively outdoor market is the perfect place to socialize with locals and try some delicious Israeli food. It’s a great stop on your Israel itinerary to get a deep dive into the lively Israeli culture. As you wander through the stalls and shops, you’ll find a wide variety of tasty treats, including falafel, shawarma, and freshly baked pita bread. You can also browse the colorful stalls selling everything from spices and herbs to handmade crafts and souvenirs. With its lively atmosphere and great food, Shuk Mahane Yehuda is the perfect place to spend a night out in Jerusalem.
Day 2: Jerusalem
For the second day of your Israel itinerary, spend the day exploring more of Jerusalem. Head to the Israeli Museum to see the Dead Sea Scrolls and other ancient artifacts, or visit the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial to learn about the tragic history of the Jewish people. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the picturesque neighborhoods of Musrara or Nachlaot, or visit the Mount of Olives for a panoramic view of the city. Find day trips in Jerusalem by clicking here.
In the evening, if you’re looking for a great place to grab dinner in Jerusalem on your Israel itinerary, there are plenty of options to choose from. One popular spot is Machneyuda, a bustling restaurant located in the heart of the city. Here you’ll find a wide variety of Israeli and Mediterranean dishes, made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Another popular option is the Eucalyptus Restaurant, which serves up delicious Middle Eastern cuisine in a cozy and intimate setting. If you’re in the mood for something a little more casual, you can also try one of the many street food vendors scattered throughout the city. From falafel to shawarma, there’s something for every taste and budget. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to find some delicious food in Jerusalem.
Day 3: The Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights
On the third day of your Israel itinerary, take a day trip to the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus is said to have performed many of his miracles. Along the way, stop at the Banias Nature Reserve to see the stunning waterfalls and natural beauty of the region. In the afternoon, continue on to the Golan Heights, where you’ll find rugged landscapes, wineries, and breathtaking views of Syria and Lebanon.
The Golan Heights is home to a number of wineries that produce some of the finest wines in the country. Many of these wineries offer tours and tastings, giving visitors the chance to learn about the winemaking process and sample some of the region’s best vintages and to explore the landscape of on your Israel itinerary gives a great perspective to the natural beauty of the smaller country.
The Golan Heights is particularly known for its red wines, which are made from grapes grown in the region’s cool, mountainous climate. Some of the top wineries to visit in the Golan Heights include the Golan Heights Winery, the Yarden Winery, and the Bazelet HaGolan Winery. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking to enjoy a glass of something delicious, the Golan Heights is a great place to experience Israel’s thriving wine culture. Click here to read more about exploring the beauty of the Golan Heights.
Day 4: Tel Aviv
Halfway through your Israel itinerary, take a trip to the Mediterranean coast and the city of Tel Aviv. As the cultural and economic hub of Israel, Tel Aviv is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with a thriving arts scene, a bustling nightlife, and some of the best food in the country. Spend the day exploring the city’s many museums, art galleries, and sandy beaches, or simply relax and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Click here to book a private day tour of Tel Aviv and Jaffa to explore all this city has to offer.
One of the best ways to experience the vibrant culture of Tel Aviv is to explore the city’s outdoor street markets. From the bustling stalls of the Carmel Market to the colorful vendors at the Nachalat Binyamin Crafts Fair, these markets are a great place to find everything from fresh produce and spices to handmade crafts and souvenirs on your Israel itinerary. As you wander through the stalls, you’ll have the chance to mingle with locals and get a feel for the city’s unique energy.
In addition to the shopping, these markets are also a great place to grab a bite to eat. From falafel to coffee, you’ll find a wide variety of delicious Israeli street food to fuel your adventures. So if you want to get a taste of Tel Aviv’s culture and cuisine, make sure to spend some time exploring the city’s outdoor street markets. To discover the outdoor street markets in Israel, click here.
Day 5: The Negev Desert
On the last days of the Israel itinerary, take a trip to the Negev Desert, a vast and rugged region in southern Israel. Along the way, stop at the ancient city of Be’er Sheva, where you’ll find a blend of modernity and history. In the afternoon, continue on to the Ramon Crater, a stunning natural formation that is one of the largest erosional craters in the world. As the sun sets, make your way to a nearby Bedouin village, where you can enjoy a traditional dinner and sleep under the stars.
One of the best ways to explore the Ramon Crater is to take a guided tour, which will allow you to learn about the geology and history of the region. You can also choose to explore the crater on your own, by hiking or mountain biking through the rugged terrain. Either way, you’ll have the chance to see some of the most beautiful and unique landscapes on this Israel itinerary. As you make your way through the crater, you’ll encounter a variety of flora and fauna, including desert plants and animals that are adapted to survive in this harsh and arid environment. So if you’re looking for an adventure in the great outdoors, the Ramon Crater is a must-see destination. Find guided tours here.
Day 6: The Dead Sea
Finally on the Israel itinerary, head to the lowest point on earth – the Dead Sea. Located about an hour’s drive from Jerusalem, the Dead Sea is a natural wonder that is unlike anything else in the world. The water is so salty that it’s impossible to sink, and the minerals in the water are said to have healing properties. Spend the day lounging on the beach, floating in the water, and smearing mud all over your body (it’s good for your skin, promise).
The Dead Sea is home to a number of beautiful beaches and spas, each with its own unique atmosphere and amenities. One popular option is the Ein Bokek Beach, which is located on the southern end of the sea and is known for its crystal clear waters and soft, sandy shores. This beach is also home to a number of hotels, spas, and restaurants, making it a great place to relax and rejuvenate after a very busy previous couple of days of the Israel itinerary.
Another popular spot is the Neve Midbar Beach, which is located on the western side of the sea and offers a more laid-back atmosphere. This beach is a great place to try out some of the therapeutic mud that is found in the area, or just relax in the sun and enjoy the stunning views. No matter which beach you choose, you’re sure to find a slice of paradise at the Dead Sea. A great way to explore this natural wonder, is by a tour. Discover tours of the Dead Sea and Masada by clicking here.
Day 7: Masada and the Red Sea
On your final day of the Israel itinerary, take a trip to Masada, an ancient fortress that sits atop a rocky plateau overlooking the Dead Sea. From the top, you’ll have breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape. In the afternoon, head to the Red Sea for some snorkeling or scuba diving. The Red Sea is home to a wide variety of colorful fish and coral reefs, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. If you’re not a fan of the water, you can also just relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
As you can see, Israel has no shortage of things to see and do as this very full Israel itinerary indicates. From the bustling streets of Tel Aviv to the rugged beauty of the Negev Desert, this small country is packed with diverse and fascinating attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking to relax and have a good time, Israel has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for the trip of a lifetime! Discover the best tours of Israel by clicking here.