Israel From Antiquity to Today

8 days from $7,995 Venture into history on a journey to the Holy Land, exploring fascinating sites associated with Judaism, Christianity, and Islam as you travel from Jerusalem’s Old City to the tranquil Galilee to the vibrant heart of Tel Aviv.

Highlights

� Follow a private guide through Jerusalem’s Old City, visiting lesser-known gems as well as major sites like the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

� Explore King Herod’s fortress at Masada, then take a dip in the Dead Sea and the natural springs of Ein Gedi.

� Dine in a private home in the Arab village of Ein Rafa, and meet residents on a tour of a working kibbutz in the Galilee.

� Tour the ancient sites of Zippori, Mount Tabor, and Jaffa with a private guide.

The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.

Days 1 & 2 – Jerusalem, Israel

Arrive at Ben Gurion airport and meet your private driver for the journey to your hotel in Jerusalem. The next day, discover Jerusalem’s Old City with a private guide. Visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and see the resplendent Dome of the Rock and the Western Wall, the most sacred site in Judaism. Stroll the Via Dolorosa and the Roman Cardo and stop in at artisan workshops. Tonight, enjoy a sound and light show at the Tower of David.

Day 3 – Bethlehem and Jerusalem

In Bethlehem, tour Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity with your private guide. Venture into the souk and see street art on the border wall inspired by current events. Continue to the Arab village of Ein Rafa for a meal in a private home. Later, take a private tour of the Holocaust remembrance center of Yad Vashem. Then head to the Mahane Yehuda market to enjoy the colorful ambiance and taste local delicacies.

Day 4 – Masada

Travel to the World Heritage site of Masada and discover the mountaintop ruins of King Herod’s palaces and fortifications. Enjoy lunch and a float in the Dead Sea before continuing to Ein Gedi National Park for a swim in natural springs.

Day 5 – Galilee

Journey to Galilee, stopping in Zippori National Park to admire spectacular mosaics, including a zodiac of exotic animals. In the Israeli-Arab town of Nazareth, tour the Basilica of the Annunciation. Then ascend sacred Mount Tabor, home to ancient churches and Crusader fortifications. Settle into your hotel on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.

Day 6 – Galilee and Tel Aviv

With your private guide, venture to sites associated with Jesus’s early ministry, such as the Mount of the Beatitudes, Capernaum, and the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes. Spend time at a working agricultural kibbutz learning about daily life. Drive to Tel Aviv and check in to your hotel.

Days 7 & 8 – Jaffa and Tel Aviv

Venture into the ancient port of Jaffa, now home to art studios and galleries. Visit Tel Aviv’s World Heritagelisted “White City,” where Modernist and Bauhaus architecture abounds, and set out on a street art tour. Transfer to the airport the next day.