Day 1 Sunday

WELCOME TO HOLY ISRAEL!

VIP Welcome at Ben Gurion Airport

After landing, a Shalom Israel Tours representative will be waiting to welcome you as you exit the plane. Your party will be transported in a private vehicle to the flight staff passport control, continue to luggage identification and transfer to your luxury chauffeured vehicle.

Welcome to Holy Jerusalem

Welcome to the holiest city in the world! Here you can touch the Western Wall, wander the history-drenched streets of Jerusalem, and experience its unique energy, bursting with diversity and culture.There is no better place than Jerusalem to start your Israel adventure.

Relax in Jerusalem

Filled with marvelous boutique shops, cafes, Judaica and souvenir stores, Jerusalem is the best place to relax, shop and indulge. Explore the store-lined streets of King George and Jaffa Street or head to the German Colony to the chic and fabulous Emek Refaim Street.

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 2 Monday

ARCHAEOLOGY OF JERUSALEM

Western Wall Tunnels Tour

These famous underground tunnels contain remnants of entire rooms from the Second Temple period. At Warren’s Gate, you’ll stand just a few feet away from where the Holy Ark stood, and feel the yearning of the Jewish people for the Temple for thousands of years.

The Western Wall

Here stands the remnant of the ancient Jewish Temple. People come from all over the world to pray at the wall and feel its strong spiritual presence. Write down your greatest wish and place it in the wall cracks, following the tradition of thousands of years and millions of Jews.

City of King David Excavations

In 1004 BCE, King David conquered this city and secured the place where the Holy Temple would eventually be built by his son, King Solomon. Remaining structures such as Warren’s Shaft and the Tunnel of Siloam exhibit the intricate workings of this ancient capital city.

Jerusalem Archaeological Park

Experience Second Temple-era Jerusalem on the eve of its destruction by the Romans. See a virtual reconstruction of the Temple, visit the stores and walkways of the surrounding city and see the remnants of the staircase that led to the Temple Mount and the Holy of Holies.

Wohl Archaeological Museum – The Herodian Quarter

In 1967, six Herodian-era houses located beneath the Jewish Quarter were excavated. This amazing museum was built to tell the story of the homes and to exhibit the remains that were found. A private ritual bath, a palatial mansion and a mosaic floor are on display here.

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 3 Tuesday

JERUSALEM OLD CITY

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 lay millennia of ancient history. The Old City dates back to the 8th century BCE and is home to numerous landmarks of historical significance.

Zedekiah’s Cave – Solomon’s Quarries

Explore what is believed to be the place where Herod the Great quarried stones in order to renovate Jerusalem’s Holy Temple. This 5-acre cave can be found 30 feet below street level under the Muslim Quarter of the Old City, just between the Damascus and Herod Gates.

 The Four Sephardic Synagogues

During the War of Independence, residents of the Jewish Quarter found cover here for two continuous weeks. After the reunification of Jerusalem in 1967, these four synagogues were rehabilitated, and today they are frequented by the residents of the Jewish Quarter

Tower of David Museum

The Tower of David served a military purpose until 1967, when it was re-captured by Israel and turned into a museum of Jerusalem’s history. Now you can view the most thorough collection of Jerusalem artifacts, from the Canaanite period 4,000 years ago up to today.

King David’s Tomb

Located on Mount Zion in a 1,000-year-old building, people come here 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. A medieval tradition places his tomb at this location.

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 4 Wednesday

JERUSALEM – THE ETERNAL CAPITAL

Old City Ramparts Walk

Built in the 16th century by Suleiman the Magnificent, the vantage points of these ramparts were used by Jordanian snipers against the Israelis from 1948-1967. Walk along the top of the wall and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Jewish and Christian quarters of the Old City.

Katros House – The Burnt House

Burnt to the ground during the Roman destruction of the Temple in 70 C.E., excavations have uncovered remnants of the lives of the priestly Katros family, who lived during the Second Temple. A film tells the story of the great destruction in a dramatic reproduction.

 The Temple Institute

This organization is dedicated to every aspect of the Temple in Jerusalem. After many years of effort and toil, the three most important and central vessels of the Holy Temple have been reconstructed. Priestly garments, incense and musical instruments are also on display.

 The Rebuilt Hurva Synagogue

This synagogue was known as the primary Ashkenazi synagogue in Jerusalem from 1864 until it was destroyed during the 1948 War of Independence by the Jordanians. For many years, only its arch remained, but it was recently rebuilt and restored to its former glory.

Tower of David Night Spectacular

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, Romans, Crusaders, Turks and others, as they tried to overtake Jerusalem. This show is simply “Spectacular.”

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 5 Thursday

UNITED JERUSALEM – THE NEW CITY

1967 Six Day War – Ammunition Hill

On the night of June 6th, 1967, a four-hour battle took place here at Ammunition Hill in which 36 men lost their lives. Today you can view the trenches and reconstructed bunker that serves as a museum and tells the story of the liberation and reunification of Jerusalem.

 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 existing biblical manuscripts in the world, the Dead Sea Scrolls, which are housed in the Shrine of the Book.

 Mount Herzl National Cemetery

A burial place for prominent Zionist figures such as Theodore Herzl, Golda Meir and Yitzhak Rabin, here you will also find an expansive military cemetery; one quite full for a country so young. The loss of the soldiers 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, artifacts and memorial gardens, this museum embodies one crucial message: Never again.

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 6 Friday

JERUSALEM NEIGHBORHOOD’S

Jerusalem “Shuk” (Market)

With more than 250 vendors, this bustling outdoor marketplace is considered the heartbeat of central Jerusalem. Whatever you are looking for, the shuk has it: clothing, Judaica, fresh produce, meats, diamonds, restaurants – and an array of colorful characters throughout.

Jerusalem Mount of Olives

Located on the eastern slopes of the Jerusalem mountains, near the Temple Mount and the City of David, this peak is named after the olive trees that covered its grounds in biblical times. Today, camels, monasteries, and ancient tombstones dot these scenic slopes.

The Old Train Station

Jerusalem’s first train station has been transformed into a beautiful venue for culture and cuisine. Choose from 7 different eateries including cafés, specialty restaurants & ice cream.  Live musicians & artists present throughout, the train station is a great venue to explore!

Friday Night Tour to the Western Wall

On the eve of Shabbat, Jerusalem transforms; stores shut down, and streets and alleyways fall silent, as all begin to anticipate the weekly Shabbat. Our 2000-year-old tour will pass through Jaffa gate and the Golden Menorah, and end at the Wall right as Shabbat begins.

Shabbat Dinner & Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 7 Shabbat

SHABBAT IN HOLY JERUSALEM

Shabbat Morning at Leisure & Lunch

Enjoy breakfast and your morning at leisure and Shabbat lunch at your hotel.

Jerusalem Old City Shabbat Tour

Explore the Old City’s ancient quarters with an experienced guide. Visit the historical sites of the Old City, including synagogues, churches, markets and squares. Learn about the 3000 year-old history of the city of Jerusalem, from King David’s conquest until the present day.

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 8 Sunday

ISRAELI POLITICS & HISTORY

Israeli Parliament Building – The Knesset

Visit the seat of Israel’s government since 1966. Sitting at the heart of modern Jerusalem, the Knesset is the home of the Israeli parliament with its 120 members. See Israeli democracy in action and learn about the architecture and art of the Knesset building itself.

Israel Supreme Court

With its stunning blend of modern architecture, ancient materials and timeless design symbols, the new Supreme Court of Israel building is truly a remarkable sight. Learn about the intricacies of Israeli law, hear a case and gain an appreciation for Israel’s judicial system.

Menachem Begin Heritage Center

Dedicated to the legacy of Menachem Begin and to the future growth and security of Israel, this museum takes you through his life, following Begin from his years as commander of the Irgun, to a leader of the Opposition, and eventually to his service as Prime Minister of Israel.

Bible Lands Museum

Go back in time at this one-of-a-kind, family-friendly museum that educates visitors about the nations of the biblical era. Learn about ancient art, Canaanite tools and weapons, and ancient contributions to modern society. The museum is both educational and tons of fun!

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 9 Monday

JERUSALEM ARTISTS

Heichal Shlomo

Located adjacent to Jerusalem’s Great Synagogue, Heichal Shlomo is the former seat of Israel’s Chief Rabbinate. Today Heichal Shlomo houses a museum of ritual Jewish art, a large auditorium, and the Renanim Synagogue, including artifacts from 18-century Italy.

Hutzut Hayotzer Artists Colony

Two years after the reunification of Jerusalem in 1967, a no-man’s land between the New and Old City of Jerusalem was transformed into an artist’s colony. The artists, meet and welcome you personally. A visit to Hutzot Hayotzer is a must for the discerning visitor interested in Jerusalem’s History and in international level of art, design and craftsmanship.

Hadassah Chagall Windows

Renowned artist Marc Chagall brought his artistic talent to Israel by creating twelve stained glass windows that explore the Biblical symbolism of the 12 tribes of Israel. The sun filtering through the stained glass creates a brilliantly radiant depiction of famous Jewish imagery.

Ben Yehuda Street

Here you’ll find all the restaurants, shops, street vendors and street performances you could ever ask for. Sip a latte at one of Ben Yehuda’s many sidewalk cafes, grab a delicious frozen treat, invest in some Judaica, purchase souvenirs, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 10 Tuesday

VOLUNTEERING IN THE CAPITAL

The Temple Mount Sifting Operation – Just Dig It!

Be a part of the only archaeological excavation that ever took place in soil from the Temple Mount. Sift through dirt removed during construction on the site. Even the smallest piece of pottery conveys significant facts about the activities that took place on the Temple Mount.

Pantry Packers Food Packaging & Volunteering

Give back to the needy families of Jerusalem by taking time to pack food for distribution. Pantry Packers is a project of the Colel Chabad organization that regularly provides healthy food and pantry staples such as rice, oil and canned goods to the poorest of Israel’s families.

United Hatzalah

Learn about United Hatzalah of Israel, a fully volunteer Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Organization that assists in responding to terrorist attacks and medical emergencies throughout Israel.

Bloomfield Science Museum

Satisfy your sense of curiosity and enhance your understanding of the technological and natural worlds by taking part in this museum’s large, interactive exhibits. There is no better opportunity to get a better grasp on scientific concepts while having a blast exploring!

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 11 Wednesday

JERUSALEM OUTDOOR FUN!

Jerusalem Biblical Zoo

This unique zoo is famous for housing a wide selection of animals referenced in the Bible, as well as preserving certain endangered species. The 62-acre campus located in Southern Jerusalem centers on a vast man-made lake complete with waterfalls, and side pools.

Jerusalem Promenade Lookout

Arrive in Jerusalem and ascend to the Haas Promenade. In a single view, you will perceive both the Old City and the expanse of modern Jerusalem. This site helps us understand why the Talmud says that of the ten measures of beauty in the world, nine reside in Jerusalem.

 Jerusalem Scavenger Hunt

On the backdrop of ancient relics and picturesque alleys, discover Jerusalem via Scavenger Hunt! Navigating through the city, discover its rich history and unique character while competing to gather information and fulfill missions at different stations along the route!

Jerusalem Time Elevator

The Jerusalem Time Elevator packs 3000 years of history into a fun, exciting, multimedia presentation. This historical show, geared towards older children, is 35 minutes long, and keeps their attention through a fast-paced film with special effects and a motion platform.

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 12 Thursday

JERUSALEM NEIGHBORHOOD TOURS

Meah She’arim

Anid the intensity of this bustling ultra-Orthodox neighborhood, take note of all the unique and varied garb of its residents, highlighting the diversity of their traditions. Don’t miss the plethora of Judaica stores, bookstores, bakeries and food shops Meah She’arim has to offer.

Nachlaot Neighborhood Tour

Discover hidden nooks and crannies in the historic alleyways of the quaint neighborhood of Nachlaot, established by those who left the comforts of the Old City Walls in the 1860s. Today’s Nachlaot is inhabited by old-timers, hippies, and young American immigrants.

Yemin Moshe Tour

Take a trip to the neighborhood created by Moses Montefiore, when the Old City became too crowded and settlement began outside the walls. Learn about the various achievements of this famous philanthropist and his contributions to Jewish settlement in pre-state Israel.

Overnight: Jerusalem Hotel Options

Day 13 Friday

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!