Day 1 Sunday

ISRAEL’S COAST – ANCIENT PORTS

Ancient City of Caesarea Ruins

The ruins of Roman and Crusader structures in Caesarea tell the story of this once Christian port town. Highlights include the ruins of a Hippodrome, Roman theater, shop-lined Byzantine Street, Greek mosaic inscription, and Crusader cathedral dedicated to St. Paul.

Meggido National Park

Learn about the history of the biblical period and visit Armageddon. An impressive water system commissioned by King Solomon and expanded by King Ahab is tall enough to walk through. Other finds at the site include a Late Bronze Age gate, palace and ancient stables.

Haifa Bahai Gardens Lookout

Also known as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa, the Bahai Gardens here were built on 19 cascading terraces that rise more than half a mile up the slope of Mount Carmel. From the beautifully landscaped gardens, visitors can take in spectacular views of Haifa and its bay.

Akko Crusader Halls

Visit this underground complex, which was once a Crusader citadel and hospital. Walk through a secret passageway, and check out the crypt, dining hall and the remains of an Gothic church. Learn about the Knights Hospitallers and their work in the Holy Land.

Dinner & Overnight: Northern Israel Hotel Options

Day 2 Monday

THE SEA OF GALILEE – HOLY WATERS

Banias Spring Caesarea Philipi

A peaceful spot for prayer and reflection, Caesarea Philipi is home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Israel. See where Jesus cured the woman from Paneas and asked the disciples who they thought he was. Visit the Crusader tower and a still-active water mill.

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.

Capernaum National Park

Visit the remains of a Second Temple period fishing village and its synagogue, and imagine the lives of those who dwelled 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.

 Jesus Boat Museum

A restored first-century boat fished out of the Sea of Galilee is on display and demonstrates the type of boat that Jesus and his disciples, some of whom were fishermen, would have used to travel around the Galilee. The story of the boat’s miraculous discovery is also told.

Dinner & Overnight: Northern Israel Hotel Options

 Day 3 Tuesday

THE JORDAN VALLEY – ANCIENT HIGHWAY OF KINGS

 Belvoir Castle Fortress

A reconstructed Crusader-era castle, Belvoir is the most complete standing example of a fortress from the Christian Kingdom of Jerusalem. The huge towers, moat and drawbridge are particularly impressive. The towers here provide a gorgeous view of the Jordan River.

 Beit She’an National Park

The fully excavated theater and town of Beit Shean tell the story of daily life in the time of Jesus. See the remains of the town, with its colonnaded streets and elaborate bathhouses. Learn about the history of the city, inhabited over the years by pagans, Jews and Christians.

 Qasr el Yahud Jordan River Baptizing

One of only two organized outdoor baptismal sites in Israel, this is a must-see for pilgrims. Purify yourself in the water where the Israelites crossed the Jordan, Elijah ascended to heaven and Jesus himself was baptized. Dedicated areas are set up here for prayer sessions.

 Jerusalem Mount of Olives

This historic and deeply religious site near the Holy Temple holds a power and significance which will take your breath away. Look upon the walled Old City of Jerusalem, the Golden Gate, the Kidron and Hinnom valleys, the City of David, Mount Zion and the Temple Mount.

 Farewell for now…we’ll miss you!