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9 Day Israel Exclusive
Highlights: Tel Aviv, Galilee, Jerusalem
Trip start: Tel Aviv
Trip end: Tel Aviv
Price Range from $4,860 to $6,750 *
* USD per person based on 2-4 people, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.

National Geographic Adventure Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth '98.33 Client Satisfaction Rating'

Winner National Geographic 'Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth'
2008 & 2009

Trip Summary
Map of Itinerary
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Combining the most significant sights with the most exclusive properties, our Exclusive tour is for those who want to combine a tremendous cultural exploration with truly memorable luxury. Israel is an exceptional country, known by millions around the world as ‘the Holy Land’. The first five books of the Bible itself are about the origins and cosmology of the ‘people of Israel’, the Jews, from around 2000BC. The country is a world-class destination with outstanding cultural, archaeological and religious attractions, spas and beach resorts, as well as a unique ancient-and-modern atmosphere. Enjoy a private exploration of this fascinating land with your own private guide and vehicle. From Jerusalem's ancient history to the luxurious Galilee retreat, this is an exclusive experience.

Day Activities Hotel
Day 1
Tel Aviv
  • Tel Aviv: Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
Dan Tel Aviv Hotel
(Alt: David Intercontinental) (B)
Day 2
Tel Aviv
  • Private - City Tour - Vehicle/Driver
Dan Tel Aviv Hotel (B)
Day 3
Galilee
  • Private - Caesarea, Haifa, Mt. Carmel, Rosh Hanikra - Vehicle/Driver
  • Galilee: Private Guide/Vehicle - Vehicle/Driver
Mitzpe Hayamim (B,D)
Day 4
Galilee
  • Private - Safed and Golan Heights - Vehicle/Driver
  • Private Guide/Vehicle - Vehicle/Driver
Mitzpe Hayamim (B,D)
Day 5
Jerusalem
  • Private - Sea of Galilee, Cana, Nazareth, Jerusalem - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
  • Jerusalem: Private Guide/Vehicle - Vehicle/Driver
King David Hotel (B)
Day 6
Jerusalem
  • Private - Old City Tour - Vehicle/Driver
  • Private Guide/Vehicle - Vehicle/Driver
King David Hotel (B)
Day 7
Jerusalem
  • Private - Masada, Qumran and Dead Sea - Vehicle/Driver
  • Private Guide/Vehicle - Vehicle/Driver
King David Hotel (B)
Day 8
Tel Aviv
  • Private - New City and Bethlehem Tour - Vehicle/Driver
Dan Tel Aviv Hotel (B)
Day 9
Tel Aviv
  • Tel Aviv: Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
Depart (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive

Trip Options
All of our itineraries may be customized as you wish, add extra days, change a hotel, see different sights. Contact one of our expert consultants for your free, no-obligation vacation plan.

Itinerary

Day 1 Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is an exciting city offering commerce, culture, nightlife and sandy beaches. The Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra draws audiences from all over the world. The Museum of the Diaspora is internationally famous. The bustling Carmel Market is a popular place to visit. In 1950, Jaffa was united with Tel Aviv; situated a mile from the city, this is one of the oldest ports in the world. It has archaeological finds reaching back to the third century BC, a beach, lively nightlife in Old Jaffa and a flea market.

A private vehicle will provide a transfer between Tel Aviv and the airport.

Lounging on the coast of the Mediterranean, the Dan Tel Aviv encompasses all things central yet reserved. Located within walking distance of lively bars, restaurants, and pubs, it allows the inquisitive traveler to scope out the city and later to find refuge on the promenade over a tranquil stroll. With 280 rooms and suites, this 7-storey building gently beckons the sea breeze into its rooms and lounging areas. The breakfast buffet is mouth-watering, with juicy fruits, vegetables, and pastries that meet your every fancy. The Gan Dan Patio Café seats guests in a refreshing atmosphere, to be served light snacks and dairy. Sunbathe on the giant deck above the beachfront, and take a dip to cool off from the Tel Aviv sun.

Overnight at Dan Tel Aviv Hotel.


Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv
Dan Tel Aviv Hotel
Dan Tel Aviv Hotel
Day 2 Tel Aviv

Tel-Aviv is the bustling business centre of Israel, and boasts a combination of modern architecture, alongside some traditional and classic examples.  Begin the tour with a visit to Old Jaffa, an area some 4,000 years old, this port city of Jaffa served Egyptian and Phoenician sailors during antiquity. Christian legend has it that Jaffa was named after Noah’s son Japhet, whom was believe to have built it after the great flood.   Visit the Clock Tower in the central square, the Jaffa Museum (first constructed during the Crusades and exhibiting artifacts from area digs), Kikar Kedumin (formerly Tel Aviv’s red light district, but now an artsy place with restaurants and gift shops), and the port marina with its abundance of houseboats and restaurants. Next, enjoy a walking tour of Neve Tzedek. These beautifully restored houses and streets preserve the romance of the early days of Jewish urban settlement. The neighborhood was nicknamed "Little Paris" because of its eye-opening architectural innovations. Today, the most outstanding site is the Suzanne Delal Centre, a bustling dance and theater complex. In July, 2003, UNESCO proclaimed the "White City" as a World Cultural Heritage site. Walk along Rothschild Boulevard to view the architectural styles of the 1930s – most notably the International, or Bauhaus, style, telling the story of Tel Aviv from its early years unitl today. This is a wonderful opportunity to savor the experience of life, past and present, in the first Hebrew city. Afterwards visit Rabin Square, where former Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated. Walk in his final footsteps and discuss the impact of this event on the State of Israel.

Overnight at Dan Tel Aviv Hotel.


The City of Tel-Aviv
The City of Tel-Aviv
Day 3 Galilee

Galilee and the North - Lake Tiberias (the Sea of Galilee) itself, Nazareth, the Bet She’arim Catacombs, Megiddo, Tiberias and the Mount of Beatitudes. Bethlehem - located 10km (6.2 miles) south of Jerusalem, it is most famous for being the birthplace of Christ, although it is also well known for olive woodcarving and mother-of-pearl jewelry, which, today, has developed into a modern industry. Jericho - dates back more than 10,000 years and is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited sites. Known as the ‘City of Palms’, the walls and towers of Jericho are 4000 years older than the pyramids of Egypt, and the domestication of animals took place 1000 years earlier in Jericho than in Mesopotamia and Egypt.

Relax and enjoy the scenery as a privately driven vehicle travels north to Caesarea, for some exploration. Upon arrival into the one time Roman capital, explore the excavations sites of the crusaders' city, and the aqueduct. Admire, the ancient amphitheatre, which has been recently restored as a concert venue. From here, precede to Haifa for some panoramic viewing atop Mt. Carmel, before visiting “AF AL PI CHEN”, an old naval museum, created during the time of the British mandate. Next, travel to Acre for a walk along the old harbour area and local market. The days finally stop is at the northernmost point of Israel at Rosh Hanikra for some sightseeing, before descending by cable car into the limestone Grottoes. A return transfer to the hotel is provided.

Mitzpe Hayamim Spa Resort lies on the eastern slopes of Mount Canaan, isolated from the concrete jungle and thriving on fresh air and tranquility. Overlooking the Golan Heights and the Sea of Galilee, each room has a natural, woody effect for those who require some grounding and subtle earthy tones. The resort and restaurants have been approved by Relais & Chateaux, an exclusive organization based on the principles of excellent French lifestyle and cuisine. Mitzpe Hayamim meets and surpasses these standards with its organic kitchens stocked with farm grown fresh fruit and vegetables. Nothing beats the sweetness of a tomato from the mountains. Detoxifying spa treatments prove the Mitzpe Hayamim is an all-around cleansing experience.

Overnight at Mitzpe Hayamim.


Rainbow Cave in Nahal Betzet, Galilee
Rainbow Cave in Nahal Betzet, Galilee
Ancient aqueduct in Caesarea
Ancient aqueduct in Caesarea
Mizpe Hayamim Resort
Mizpe Hayamim Resort
Day 4 Galilee

This tour begins with a drive to Safed, the center of the Kaballa movement.  Visit the Joseph Caro and the Ha'Ari synagogues, which are the most important religious meeting places within the city.  Enjoy a stroll around the Artist's quarter before continuing on towards the Golan heights.  Here, take in the spectacular view from the observation point, viewing the city of Kuneitra and the neighbouring Syrian territory.  Make a brief stop at the former Syrian army camp at Tel Facher, before visiting the Banias springs, which is one of the main sources of the Jordan river, also known as Casarea Philippi. A visit to Tel-Hai allows the opportunity to view the "Roaring Lion" monument, which describes the heroic battle of Josef Trumpeldor and his comrades in 1920. 

Overnight at Mitzpe Hayamim.


Stone streets in Safed
Stone streets in Safed
Day 5 Jerusalem

Jerusalem for Christians, Jews and Muslims, is one of the most revered cities on earth. Attractions range from religious emblems and relics of antiquity to modern items of interest. Religious tours are available from West Jerusalem and include Mount Zion and the Tomb of David. Other sites are the Tomb of Judges; Yad Vashem, the memorial to the six million Jews who died in the Holocaust; and Mea Shearim (‘the hundred gates’). Visitors in East Jerusalem may follow the Way of the Cross, enter the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and see the Wailing Wall, the Dome of the Rock and the Jaffa and Damascus gates. The Israel Museum in Jerusalem houses the Dead Sea Scrolls and is worth visiting.

A private vehicle with driver will provide the means of transportation for this highlight tour of cities and monuments around the Sea of Galilee. The first stop is the city of Cana, to visit a wedding church where it is said that Jesus performed his first miracle, by turning water into wine. The town of Nazareth is the next place visited. This is where Jesus spent most of his childhood, as well as being the location of the Church of Annunciation, where archaeologists believe the Archangel Gabriel appeared to Virgin Mary. Whilst in Nazareth a visit to Mary's Well and Joseph's Church is planned before heading to Jerusalem.

The King David, a Jerusalem landmark placed within the center of the city, is historically recognized as Israel’s most magnificent and lavish hotel. Playing host to the world’s movers and shakers and entertaining the likes of princesses and emperors, it boasts 237 rooms. Restaurants are daring and unique, presenting Israel’s ethnic diversity at its best. The phenomenon that is Jerusalem is blessed by the infinite activities in the area, from museums to ancient stomping grounds and bazaars fraught with bargainers. For those who prefer spending time at the hotel, check out the fitness areas and personal care services where treatment is comparable to the ancient times when Jerusalem was the centre of a small world. Today, travelers still leave this wondrous city in a state of awe.

Overnight at King David Hotel.


Jerusalem
Jerusalem
Sea of Galilee
Sea of Galilee
King David Hotel
King David Hotel
Day 6 Jerusalem

This tour begins with visits to the Western Wall, followed by a visit to the famed Temple Mount and Dome of the Rock. Next, make a stop at Al Aksa Mosque before continuing on, walking through the meandering streets towards the reconstructed Cardo, a shopping arcade which once existed during ancient times. Follow the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, for a short photo stop. Enjoy some shopping at the most atmospheric market of the Old city, offering variety handicrafts, clothes, foods, spices and local delicacies. End the tour at David’s Citadel and Museum, located near the Jaffa Gate.

Overnight at King David Hotel.


Church of the Holy Sepulchre
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
Day 7 Jerusalem

This tour combines the earth’s lowest point, the Dead Sea, with one of the most famous sites in Jewish history, Masada. In the early morning hours, enjoy a sunrise climb up snake trail, or enjoy the same panoramic experience aboard a mountain cable car. Perched high atop a cliff overlooking the Dead Sea is the ruins of the well-appointed fortress of Masada, which was built by King Herod, and was used as a refuge for a Jewish faction resisting Roman rule. Next, visit Qumran, best known as the hiding place of the Dead Sea Scrolls, which were found inside the caves located on the sheer desert cliffs. Finish this tour at a Dead Sea spa, with a float in the famous and buoyant Dead Sea, renowned for its mineral content and rich black mud.

Overnight at King David Hotel.


The Dead Sea
The Dead Sea
Day 8 Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is an exciting city offering commerce, culture, nightlife and sandy beaches. The Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra draws audiences from all over the world. The Museum of the Diaspora is internationally famous. The bustling Carmel Market is a popular place to visit. In 1950, Jaffa was united with Tel Aviv; situated a mile from the city, this is one of the oldest ports in the world. It has archaeological finds reaching back to the third century BC, a beach, lively nightlife in Old Jaffa and a flea market.

This tour visits the many highlights and monuments in two very important Israeli cities, Jerusalem and Bethlehem.  Visit the Israel Museum with its renowned Shrine of the Book monument containing pieces of the Dead Sea Scrolls and a cityscape model of ancient Jerusalem. Pass by the Knesset building, home of the Israeli Parliament before touring Yad Vashem, a memorial built to commemorate victims of the Holocaust. In the afternoon carry on to Bethlehem and visit sites such as the Milk Grotto and the birthplace of Christianity, the Church or the Nativity.

Overnight at Dan Tel Aviv Hotel.


Church of Nativity in Bethlehem
Church of Nativity in Bethlehem
Day 9 Tel Aviv

A private vehicle will provide a transfer between Tel Aviv and the airport.

Depart from Tel Aviv international airport - end of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart.



Trip Includes
Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

Trip Excludes
Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.