Things to do in Israel
Israel’s mix of ancient history, religious significance and epic desert landscapes offers visitors a wealth of ways to explore. Our specialists have carefully chosen a range of activities that will help you get the most from your time in the country, from tours of Jerusalem or Bethlehem with a local guide to uncovering hidden corners of Tel Aviv or joining a local family for a Shabbat dinner. Whether you’re interested in history, gastronomy or religion, we can suggest activities to enhance your stay from exploring the 2nd-century ruins at Zippori or touring the Sea of Galilee to rappelling down the canyon walls in Makhtesh Ramon, enjoying a wine-tasting session at a local vineyard, or sharing lunch with a Druze family.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip by calling one of our Israel specialists on 01993 838 433
Ideas for experiencing Israel
Experiences you have as you travel often hold the longest memories. As part of their research trips, our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know Israel, and the best local guides. These activities reflect some of their best-loved experiences.
Highlights of the Sea of Galilee
Discover the site of much of Jesus’ ministry on a guided tour of the highlights of the Sea of Galilee, the place where Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount, multiplied the loaves and fishes, and met the first of his disciples.
Desert 4x4 and rappelling experience
Explore the dramatic Negev desert landscape, enjoy striking views, and learn about the unusual geological process that led to the formation of the Makhtesh Ramon on a guided 4x4 tour, before rappelling down a sheer cliff into the crater below.
Tel Aviv and Jaffa
Exploring the ancient port of Jaffa and the fashionable streets of Tel Aviv, this tour offers a deeper insight into the history of the country as it meanders from the Bronze Age port past Ottoman-era buildings to tree-lined boulevards rich in Bauhaus architecture.
Ein Gedi and Masada
Towering above the Judean Desert and accessed by cable car, the Masada fortress offers panoramic views, Roman engineering and a poignant history. Nearby, the Ein Gedi nature reserve offers a complete contrast, with hiking trails that lead to spring-fed waterfalls and swimming holes.
Caesarea and Acre with Druze home hospitality lunch
Offering an insight into life on the Mediterranean coast past and present, this tour takes in the ancient port of Acre with its imposing citadel, and the Roman, Crusader and Byzantine ruins at Caesarea, before concluding in a traditional meal with a Druze family.
Nazareth and Zippori with winery lunch
Explore Nazareth – Jesus’ childhood home and Israel’s largest Arab city – with a private guide, before discovering the ruins of the ancient city of Zippori and taking a tour of a local winery where you’ll stop for some lunch.
Bethlehem, Yad Vashem and Mahane Yehuda Market
Take a full-day tour and let a private guide take the stress out of travel as you explore the birthplace of Jesus in Bethlehem, the poignant displays and memorials of Yad Vashem, and the bustling lanes of the Mahane Yehuda market.
Jerusalem Old City and Mount of Olives
Discover religious and historic sights on a guided walk around the labyrinthine streets of Old Jerusalem, taking in the Temple Mount and Western Wall, as well as the lively bazaars, before heading to the Mount of Olives and Garden of Gethsemane.