14 Day King Saul Grand Tour & Petra
Tours run every Thursday year round!
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Day 1 Thursday (Assist & Transfer)
ARRIVE IN HOLY ISRAEL!
Assistance at Ben Gurion Airport
After clearing passport control a Shalom Israel Tours representative will be waiting to welcome you, assist with your luggage, and escort you to your waiting chauffeur for transfer.
Arrive in Tel Aviv
Stretched along the beautiful beach strip of the Mediterranean Sea, Tel Avis is often considered the face of modern Israel. Nicknamed “The White City” for its abundance of Bauhaus architecture, Tel Aviv was declared a UNESCO World Heritage City in 2003.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Hotel Options
Day 2 Friday (Guide & Vehicle)
TEL AVIV – ISRAEL’S MODERN CITY
The Diaspora Museum
Located at the Tel Aviv University this museum houses displays from the days of the Temple 2,600 years ago to the present day. Pass through the six “gates” of Family, Community, Faith, Culture, the Jewish people among the nations, and the return to the land of Israel.
Rabin Square & Memorial
Visit the spot that Prime Minister Yitzchak Rabin was assassinated at the newly remodeled memorial square in central Tel Aviv, and learn about Rabin’s impact on the state of Israel.
Old Jaffa Port & Market
Over 4,000 years old, the Jaffa Port is the oldest in the world. In ancient times King Solomon imported cedars from Lebanon through Jaffa to build the Temple. In modern times Jaffa was the entrance point for Jewish immigrants coming to build their nation.
Neve Tsedek Neighborhood
One of Tel Aviv’s first neighborhoods, Neve Tzedek was built in 1887. This neighborhood housed several famous artists and writers, including Nobel Prize winner Shmuel Agnon. Today this character filled area is still home to art galleries, cafes, and cultural centers.
Nachlat Binyamin Arts & Crafts Fair
The first and biggest of its kind in Israel, every Friday this average street comes alive. Displaying Israeli made crafts, paintings, jewelry, and home décor, all products are hand made and sold by the artists themselves making a visit to this market a very special one.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Hotel Options
Day 3 Saturday (Free Day – Relax!)
TEL AVIV – FREE DAY AT LEISURE
Tel Aviv – Jaffa Promenade
On a beautiful day, nothing beats a walk along the beach. The Promenade runs the entire length of the city (14 kilometers), from southern Jaffa to the northern Tel Aviv Port. Whether you walk the whole thing or just go for a leisurely stroll through certain segments, you’ll have the cool sea breeze and views of the Mediterranean and Tel Aviv skyline.
The Tel Aviv North Port
Relax & stroll the north port, also known as the “Namal.” The remodeled port won the European Biennial of Landscape Architecture, a prestigious European award for landscape architecture. Here you’ll find live performances, art, shopping, and great restaurants.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Hotel Options
Day 4 Sunday (Guide & Vehicle)
ISRAEL’S COAST – ANCIENT PORTS
Ancient City of Caesarea Ruins
The Caesarea National Park contains the remains of a prestigious city established by King Herod the Great. Prepare to be amazed when you visit the mighty Roman Amphitheatre, the Hippodrome, a 20,000 seat horse racing arena, as well as the impressive Roman Aqueducts!
Megiddo National Park
Get ready to learn about one of the most fascinating cities in the Middle East, where Egyptian, Assyrian and Israeli leaders have all fought for control. Dating back near 5,000 years you learn about this important site while enjoying views of the Lower Galilee.
Druze Villages of Daliat el-Carmel
The Druze, an ethnic group that split off from Islam approximately 1,000 years ago, has played an active role in supporting Israel since its founding. Learn about the history of Druze culture and its cuisine on a visit to a village in the beautiful Carmel region.
Mount Carmel Lookout Point
We’ll end our day by standing atop Mount Carmel for a spectacular view of the Haifa Bay…
Dinner & Overnight: Kibbutz Lavi Hotel, Southern Galilee
Day 5 Monday (Guide & Vehicle)
THE GALILEE AND TZFAT – CITY OF KABALLAH
Tzfat Old City & Artist Quarter
Tzfat, the City of Air, is one of the four holy cities in Israel. It has been a spiritual center since the 1600’s when it was the center of Kabbala (Jewish mysticism). Now filled with silversmiths, painters, sculptors, and more, artists are hard at work in their studios and as you walk by, you’ll see the windows of the ancient buildings filled with inspiring paintings.
Unique Tzfat Synagogues
Throughout the centuries, Tzfat has been rattled by several earthquakes, yet mysteriously all the synagogues have remained intact. View a Torah scroll form the middle ages, the authentic Shulchan Aroch, and many Holy Arks; all survivors.
Golan Magic Welcome Center
Here the Golan comes alive; view a state-of-the-art model, complete with light and sound effects, and a film documenting its history on a 180 degree panoramic screen.
Golan Heights Winery
Located high in the heights of the Golan in the small town of Katzrin, you will find this famous winery which exports to over 25 different countries. Take part in a wine-tasting and learn how these brands of wine are produced.
Dinner & Overnight: Kibbutz Lavi Hotel, Southern Galilee
Day 6 Tuesday (Guide & Vehicle)
THE SEA OF GALILEE – ANCIENT WATERS
Village of Nazareth
After breakfast we’ll start our day with a short drive to Nazareth, the town where Jesus spent his childhood. Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, Mary’s Well and the Church of St. Gabriel. Visit the Blessed Cave, view Mary and Joseph’s house.
Sea of Gailee & Capernaum National Park
Visit the remains of a Second Temple period fishing village and its synagogue, and imagine the lives of those who lived there. We’ll learn about the location where Jesus selected his Apostles and the modern day church that stands where the house of Peter once stood.
Mount of Beatitudes
The Mount of Beatitudes sits on a hilltop at the northern point of the Sea of Galilee, this is where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount. A Byzantine church was erected near the current site in the 4th century, and it was used until the 7th century.
Ancient Beit Alfa Synagogue
Built during the Byzantine era, this excavated synagogue is most well-known for its miraculously well preserved mosaic filled with intricate artistic detail. The mosaic vividly portrays the Binding of Isaac, the Zodiac, and the Temple of Jerusalem.
Ascend to Holy Jerusalem
Welcome to the holiest city in the world, the eternal city of Jerusalem. Touch the Western Wall, walk beautiful streets of “new” Jerusalem, and enjoy the city’s vast & diverse culture.
Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options
Day 7 Wednesday (Guide & Vehicle)
JERUSALEM’S OLD CITY – THE ETERNAL CAPITAL
Mount of Olives
From the Mount of Olives you will look upon the walled city of Jerusalem, the Golden Gate, the Kidron and Hinnom valleys, the City of David, Mount Zion, and the Temple Mount.
Old City Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Quarter remains one of the single-most visited spots in all of Israel. Nestled within one square kilometer of land lays millennia of ancient history, it dates back to the 8th century BCE, and is home to the only surviving piece of wall from the Holy Temple.
Old City Christian Quarter
Tour through the Via Dolorosa following the Stations of the Cross the Church to the Holy Sepulchre, also known as the Church of Resurrection, Christianity’s holiest site.
King David’s Tomb
Located on Mount Zion in a 1,000 year old building, here people come to pay tribute to the great King David, who is most notably famous for composing the Book of Psalms and establishing a unified capital for Israel.
Last Supper Room
Visit the Last Supper Room, built in commemoration of the Last Supper shared by Jesus and his disciples the night before his crucifixion. Though the room is mostly empty, it does have some decorations dating back to the Ottoman period.
Bethlehem
Next we will travel to Bethlehem, the royal city of David, the place of the birth of Jesus in the Grotto of the Nativity. The focus of religious activity in Bethlehem is the Manger Square which is flanked by the Church of the Nativity.
Rachel’s Tomb
A sacred destination of many for heartfelt prayer, the matriarch Rachel became a symbol of hope for the Jewish people, as she was childless for many years, but ultimately became the mother of the Jewish people. This site signifies the return of the Jewish people to Israel.
Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options
Day 8 Thursday (Guide & Vehicle)
JERUSALEM’S NEW CITY – THE MODERN CAPITAL
Israel Museum & Dead Sea Scrolls
Founded in 1965, this is the largest cultural institution in the State of Israel and one of the world’s leading art and archaeology museums. Here you will find the oldest biblical manuscripts in the world, the Dead Sea Scrolls which are housed in the Shrine of the Book.
Israeli Parliament Building – The Knesset
Visit the seat of Israel’s government since 1966; the Knesset. Sitting at the heart of modern Jerusalem, the Knesset is the home of the Israeli parliament with all of its 120 members.
Mount Herzl National Memorial
A burial place for prominent Israeli figures such as Theodore Herzl and Golda Meir, here you will also find an expansive military cemetery; one quite full for a country so young. The mourning and loss of those who fought for the land of Israel is palpable.
Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum
In 1963, the Yad Vashem Museum was established as the world center for Holocaust research, education, and commemoration. With survivor testimonies, powerful displays, and memorial gardens this museum embodies one crucial message; Never again.
Dinner & Tower of David Night Spectacular Show – Included Evening Activity!
In the evening you’ll head back to the Tower of David’s rooftop to view an epic nighttime extravaganza of sight and sound depicting the conquests of the Greeks, Roman’s, Crusaders, Turks, and others as they tried to overtake Jerusalem. This show is simply “Spectacular”.
Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options
Day 9 Friday (Guide & Vehicle)
THE JUDEAN DESERT – KING HEROD’S FORTRESS
Qumran Dead Sea Scroll Caves
The ancient settlement of Qumran is best known as the spot where the Dead Sea Scrolls, the oldest biblical books to be unearthed, were found in 1947. This fascinating ancient settlement is a desert cave that was once home to the Essenes almost 2,200 years ago.
Masada Mountain & Cable Car
Ride via cable car to the top of Masada and explore what remains of King Herod’s palace, imagining what it was like to live there as you view the well preserved baths, cisterns, barracks. It was here that Eleazer Ben Yair kept the Roman Legion at bay for three years.
Dead Sea Float & Mud
Yam Hamelach, literally meaning “Sea of Salt”, is 417 meters below sea level, making it the lowest place on earth. Its salty water contains unique healing properties, which, combined with the nutrient-filled mud found on its shores creates one luxurious day. Let’s float!
The Kotel (The Western Wall) – Evening Recommendation
Here stand the sacred remnants of the ancient Jewish Temple. On Friday night come to the Wall and join the joyful event together with soldiers and people from all over the world dancing together in lively in celebration of Shabbat, a truly unforgettable experience.
Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options
Day 10 Saturday (Free Day)
SHABBAT IN JERUSALEM – DAY AT LEISURE
Shabbat Morning
Enjoy a morning at leisure and relax.
Unique Shabbat afternoon tour… – Additional Walking Tour Option
In the late afternoon we’ll explore around the Old City Four Quarters, each stone has a remarkable story to tell, we’ll uncover it together…
Mamilla Pedestrian Pavilion – Evening Suggestion
This stunning new Pavilion features renovated 19th century buildings, street performances, and a thorough selection of designer shops filled with world-leading brands. Interspersed throughout are elegant cafes, chic restaurants, and rooftop lounges for your dining pleasure.
Ben Yehuda Street
Here you’ll find all the restaurants, shops, street vendors, and street performances you could ask for. Sip a latte at one of Ben Yehuda’s many sidewalk cafes, grab a delicious, chocolate fro-yo, invest in some Judaica, and watch the world of Israeli youth pass you by.
Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options
Day 11 Sunday (Guide & Vehicle)
THE NEGEV – ISRAEL’S FLOURISHING DESERT
Timna Park
Venture into this geological wonderland! Visit Timna and see the copper mines and King Solomon’s pillars and marvel at the huge multi-colored rock formations. These towering sandstones are so perfectly formed that they almost look man-made.
The Underwater Observation Marine Park
Get up close and personal with Red Sea aquatic life at this interactive observation park.
Overnight: Eilat Hotel Options
Day 12 Monday (Guide & Vehicle)
AT LEISURE OR OPTIONAL TOUR TO PETRA
The Lost City of Petra – Optional Tour
Counted amongst the wonders of the ancient world, Petra is an archeological and geological phenomenon. Your guide will explain the history, legends, myths and truths of this astonishing city carved 2,000 years ago from the red Sandstone Mountains.
Overnight: Eilat Hotel Options
Day 13 Tuesday (Guide & Vehicle)
THE NEGEV – ISRAEL’S FLOURISHING DESERT
Ramon Crater
Enjoy spectacular views of the desert and witness this unique geological phenomenon. Delve into the bio dome museum, exploring the wildlife that has adapted to this desert region.
Ben Gurion Hut
Get an insider’s look at how the first Prime Minister of Israel lived when you visit his preserved home. This hut is now a monument to the first leader of Israel, his life on Kibbutz Sde Boker, and his extraordinary relationship with the Negev Desert.
Camel Rides and Druze Village Experience
Next we’ll stop for camel rides & a traditional lunch at a Bedouin settlement in the Negev!
Air Force Museum
Here in Be’er Sheva, learn the history of Israel’s superior Air Force. You’ll get a chance to view actual airplanes, displays, and the history of the modern Israeli Air Force, as well as audio-visual presentations that are engaging for both children and adults!
Overnight: Tel Aviv Hotel Options
Day 15 Wednesday (Airport Transfer)
FAREWELL FOR NOW…WE’LL MISS YOU!
Farewell Transfer…We’ll Miss you!
Transfer to Ben Gurion Airport for your temporary departure from Israel…Bye for now!
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HOTELS INCLUDED
Enjoy your stay at some of Israel’s finest hotels
- 4 nights hotel in Tel Aviv, The Modern City
- 2 nights Kibbutz Lavi Hotel, Northern Israel
- 5 nights hotel in the Holy City of Jerusalem
- 2 nights hotel in the Beach City of Eilat
SERVICES INCLUDED
Ensuring that your visit is easy, comfortable, and fun!
- Assist at Ben Gurion Airport
- Arrival & Departure Transfers
- 9 Days Touring in an Air-Conditioned Coach
- All Touring with a Professional Licensed Guide
- Israel Tours Hats/Israel Maps/ Bottle Carriers
- All Group Touring & Sites as per Tour Program
MEALS INCLUDED
Get a taste of authentic Israeli cuisine
- Daily Breakfast Buffet at each Hotel
- 2 Nightly Dinners at Kibbutz Lavi
- Jerusalem Old City Restaurant Dinner
- Bedouin Village Light Lunch
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