luxury tours jerusalem

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P erfectly Israel was founded by Yehudit Orkin and specialises in organising luxury, tailor-made tours to Israel. We take care of every detail to ensure you enjoy the experience of a lifetime. More...

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Home > Israel > Jerusalem

Jerusalem - Private Travel

Contemporary life sits alongside the ancient past in Jerusalem, a fascinating city of intertwined cultures and histories.

A trip to Israel wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the city of Jerusalem, which packs thousands of years of history into a relatively humble size. A private tour through the 220-acre Old City yields more rich history and spirituality than any place else on earth, divided into Armenian, Christian, Jewish, and Muslim Quarters. Its current walls were built in the early 1500s. Jewish prayer site the Western Wall is a noted pilgrimage point, while the nearby Church of the Holy Sepulchre, dating back to the 4th century, is said to be the burial site of Christ. The golden Dome of the Rock is a unique monument to Islamic culture, and the Temple Mount hilltop features Christian, Islamic and Jewish structures. And yet, despite ethnic and religious conflicts, Jerusalem delivers a peaceful aura, the rose-colored limestone uniting buildings old and new, the scent of wisteria floating on the breeze. Thanks to such a mix of cultures and nationalities, there’s a new kind of Jerusalem on the rise, as the city develops an exciting culinary scene underscored with excellent new restaurants and luxury rooftop lounges.

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What is your approach to planning bespoke luxury travel? Every client is looking for something unique. I like to develop a great relationship with our clients so that I am able to customize a trip to their exact preferences. It’s incredibly rewarding to plan and deliver someone's dream trip.

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What is the most memorable vacation you have planned for a client? I booked a group of 14-16 people on a Uniworld River Cruise, who wanted to include a cycling trip. I researched several companies asking if they would follow our river cruise down the Rhine. There were a lot of components, but it turned out perfect!

What is the most memorable vacation you have planned for a client? Private overland journeys along the silk-road between China and the Stans. Discovering Scotland and Scottish cuisine by private yacht, fishing eagle and local chef onboard.

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If you’re considering bespoke private luxury travel to Jerusalem, let our expert Travel Designers make your vacation truly customized from start to finish. Having spent the last three decades traveling and experiencing the best luxury offerings firsthand, Tully Luxury Travel has an exceptional understanding of Jerusalem. We have the contacts and the relationships in place to ensure your travel needs are met – milestone celebrations, romantic dinners, private tours, dietary requirements, special room-service requests – all the details curated in step with your every wish. In Jerusalem, our Private Travel Designers have insider information that will elevate your experience that much more. Our private tour guides will show you all the highlights of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, taking in age-old cultural and religious icons, and mixing in the region’s high-style and cosmopolitan urbanity. The time to start planning your next luxury vacation is now. Our private luxury travel service also allows us to secure the best amenities and VIP extras at no additional cost. That’s the Tully Difference. Talk with a Private Travel Designer and start planning your bespoke luxury Jerusalem vacation today.

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Embark on an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s oldest and most fascinating countries with our private luxury guided tours of Israel. As you explore its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture, you’ll experience the unique and captivating destination in style and comfort.

Why go private?

Tailored to your interests and needs, our tours allow you to see the sights and places that matter most to you. Furthermore, our expert guides will ensure you get the most out of your time in Israel. Whether you want to delve into ancient ruins, taste the delicious cuisine, or simply unwind on a beautiful beach, they will be there to show you the way.

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At the heart of everything we do lies luxury, comfort, and flexibility. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be transported in our top-of-the-range vehicles, and you’ll stay in the finest hotels and resorts. With our knowledgeable, friendly guide always on hand, you’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

With the belief that a tour of Israel should be an unforgettable experience, we’ve handpicked the best places to visit, from the bustling streets of Tel Aviv to the spiritual heart of Jerusalem. Regardless of whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, our tours will showcase the very best this incredible country has to offer.

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Indulge in a tour tailored to your passions and desires, crafted just for you.

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Enjoy the freedom to shape your itinerary to your liking, with the power to choose your path.

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Travel with peace of mind, with a private guide always at your side, offering recommendations and assistance.

Get ready to embark on a journey like no other! With a custom tour, you’ll enjoy the flexibility and control to make your travel experience uniquely yours, while being guided by an expert local who knows the ins and outs of your destination. Don’t settle for a one-size-fits-all tour – indulge in personalized luxury today!

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Mazada Tours is one of Israel’s leading tour operators and has amassed over four decades of exceptional, first-hand travel experiences in the Holy Land.

We offer an array of VIP experiences in Israel, Jordan, and Egypt and create tailor-made journeys for discerning travelers. We are a one-stop-shop solution for all your travel needs in the region, organizing visas and private luxury transport, as well as booking guided tours and anything else you may need during your journey.

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When visiting Israel, we believe in providing a personal touch beyond just making your reservations. All our agents have travelled extensively and have first-hand knowledge of the destinations we book for you.

We specialize in private, luxury tours that are custom, tailor-made to you.

Our goal is to take your dream tour and make it a reality.

Israel & Beyond guides are the best in Israel, not only are they knowledgeable they are also the friendliest most professional guides you can find.  

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Israel & beyond is a travel agency for private, luxury tours in israel..

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We had a wonderful two days with Amit touring Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. We have three boys - ages 9, 13, 14 - and Amit was the perfect guide for a family with active kids. He set up a mix of cultural and recreational activities to keep everyone engaged and interested, and was flexible with timing and unplanned stops to accommodate boys who eat every couple of hours. Between his time in Tel Aviv, his time in the US, his current residence in the north of Israel, and a lot of travel around the world, he was able relate on many different levels.

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Home / Top Private Tours category / Best Private Tour of Jerusalem!

Best Private Tour of Jerusalem!

Private tour of jerusalem.

Jerusalem is the epicenter of western religions, revered by Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. Embark on this captivating one-day introductory tour, unveiling the city’s most renowned landmarks. Holy sites, culinary delights and diverse cultures will all unfold to you as your expert guide leads you through the winding alleys of this sacred city.

Discover the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Via Dolorosa

Begin your exploration by entering Jerusalem’s Old City through Jaffa gate, with the Church of the Holy Sepulchre as your first destination. This site, steeped in sanctity, is believed to be where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected. Enter the church to reach the Golgotha and the tomb of Jesus , the most profound sites for Christian faith. Your guide will then lead you through the Stations of the Cross, believed to mark the path Jesus took to his crucifixion. Known as Via Dolorosa , each station is marked by plaques and a chapel.

Visit the Western Wall and the Jewish Quarter

Proceed to the Western Wall (“Kotel”), a remnant of the 2,000- years-old Jewish Temple that is sacred for Jews. Touch the ancient stones, watch the Jewish prayers, or possibly place a note in the wall’s crevices. Adjacent to the Western Wall lies the Jewish Quarter , offering a captivating mix of synagogues, shops, and eateries. Following a lunch proceed to Mount Zion, a hill known for its historical and religious significance. The Room of the Last Supper and King David’s Tomb mark are just some of its landmarks that that attract pilgrims of various faiths.

Reach the Mount of Olives and Gethsemane

Returning to the car, drive around the Old city and ascend to the top Mount of Olives . Its summit provides the best panoramic views of Jerusalem and is known for its vast Jewish cemetery. By Christian tradition it is also where Jesus ascended to heaven. The tour will conclude in the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus was arrested after the Last Supper. Explore the ancient olive trees and the Rock of Agony, said to be where Jesus prayed in anguish before his capture.

• If time permits the tour could include a drive through western Jerusalem, appreciating the city’s 20th-century development, including Mea Shearim , the state’s parliament building (Knesset) and other national institutions.

What’s included

• Guiding by a licensed, expert, private guide
• Transportation in luxury level van or SUV
• Pick-up and drop-off at any address
• Free Wi-Fi and chilled bottled mineral water

What’s excluded

• Site entrance fees
• Meals and snacks

What to bring

• Hat and sunscreen

Email or contact us to inquire more about a private tour to Jerusalem:

We booked a helicopter tour with Danny in March. Everything perfectly organized from A to Z!! It doesn't get any better! Thanks a lot for this! 100% recommended!

I would like to thank you once again for the really good time we had in Israel, thanks to you. The whole experience… had an amazing impact on me, it made me see things in a different light.. thank you!

My parents cannot stop talking about how you made this trip so amazing!! .. We just loved how you made everything so interesting and educational. Thank you again for everything!!... Israel is lucky to have you.

Thank you for an amazing couple of days, we could not have seen half of what we wanted without you. Everything was perfect!

Thanks very much for a really special day. I loved being able to go to the special places for Christians.. an everlasting experience for me… And thanks… for your professionalism and deep knowledge and dedication...

Keep Exploring

The Jewish Quarter

Seeking for King David’s Tomb

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Room of the Last Supper

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ISRAEL WITH PASSION

Private israel tours designed for you, which tour are you looking for.

• Jerusalem Tours

Explore the eternal city of Jerusalem. Jerusalem offers infinite tales and holy sites

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Discover your jewish roots and fall in love with Israel

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The perfect day tours from tel aviv.  Tour the city or sites that are a short drive away

The Israeli wine industry is on the rise. Have a taste of the fine things Israel has to offer.

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We can design the perfect custom-made Israel tour. Single day or Multiple day options available

Israel has so much to offer: History, innovation, culture, food, and wine. The best way to get the most out of your time is with the help of a local expert. Ari Melnik Read More

Testimonials

I've recently concluded a week-long tour with Ari Melnik, and words fail to express my appreciation for his prowess, intellectual depth, clever wit, and heartfelt warmth. Ari personifies everything one could ever want from a guide and even more! My husband and I, who are in our early sixties, along with our joint family of six children aged between 26 and 30, genuinely felt as though Ari had become an integral part of our family. It was truly disheartening to part ways with him once the week ended. We traversed the country from the North to the South, and Ari proved to be an inexhaustible well of knowledge. He even organized a meeting with an old acquaintance of his who is a politician. Israel boasts of many proficient tour guides who are all knowledgeable. However, Ari is indeed a unique individual who you don't encounter often. He shares his views, kick-starts the day with humor, and enjoys engaging in inclusive discussions. I can assure you that you'll be as captivated by him as we were.

I've been on several of Ari's tours and they are excellent. He is deeply knowledgeable in all things Israel. Tells great stories and provides very insightful commentary throughout. I've referred him to many co-workers for tours as well and everyone has had a great experience. I highly recommend Ari.

An outstanding guide, knowledgeable and very pleasant for trips in Israel. This was such a fabulous tour. Ari is knowledgeable AND fun. He picked us and took us on a very personal tour of two vineyards, where we met the winemakers and heard a lot about the industry, the History of the region. Highly

An outstanding guide, knowledgeable and very pleasant for trips in Israel Ari has led us on several trips in the last few months, and we have always received excellent reviews. We hiked in the mountains of Jerusalem and tasted wine while we were there. At sunset, we toured the beaches and antiquities of Caesarea with tourists from abroad. We also did a classic Jerusalem tour. There was great feedback from each group! Whenever you go on a tour with Ari, you will always learn something new, from history to local stories to connections to different religions. The fact that his English is at a native level helped all our tourist groups feel comfortable and enjoy all the walks with him. Furthermore, he's just a pleasant, fun, and welcoming person - fun to spend days traveling with him. From a logistical perspective, Ari is a gift for me! He has a solution for every situation, whether it is a concept, a route, restaurants, accommodations, or transportation. Every time I need him, he is available, flexible, and helpful. He and his services have always been of great help to me and I look forward to returning to work with him in the future.

An Outstanding day with Ari This was such a fabulous tour. Ari is knowledgeable AND fun. He picked us and took us on a very personal tour of two vineyards, where we met the winemakers and heard a lot about the industry, the History of the region. Highly recommend.

Ari was my family's tour guide in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv for five days this past summer. He was great in every way! He planned our itinerary carefully, including everything that we were interested in seeing and then some. He made all of our hotel arrangements and was able to guide us toward amazing hotels that we absolutely loved! He was able to modify some of our plans easily when it was necessary, due to a work commitment that one of my children had unexpectedly. Ari's suggestions for activities and restaurants were impeccable. Ari was always prompt, totally reliable and always cheerful. He is unbelievably knowledgeable (about Israel's history as well as the history of the United States!), offering a depth of interesting historical details and he was always able to answer our many questions in a thoughtful way. When we return to Israel in the future, I will definitely reach out to Ari again and I recommend his services highly to anyone and everyone who visits Israel!

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful country and beautiful family with us. We appreciated it so much. Cannot wait to see you soon when you visit us in the United States!

In May 2023, our family embarked on a meaningful journey to Israel, commemorating the Bar and Bat Mitzvah of my son and daughter. We had the good fortune to be accompanied by Ari Melnik, an extraordinary tour guide whose attention to detail made our trip unforgettable. Ari's meticulous planning was evident in all aspects of our trip. He organized everything, from our accommodation and engaging activities to delightful dining experiences. He thoughtfully scheduled our activities to avoid crowds and ensure a balanced itinerary. Each restaurant he recommended provided excellent food and a warm, inviting atmosphere. He also took on the responsibility of liaising with our Rabbi and photographer, ensuring a seamless operation of our Bar Mitzvah celebration and the overall journey. With Ari's profound understanding of Israeli history, he adeptly guided us through current political landscapes, reflections on the Holocaust, and visits to ancient religious landmarks in Jerusalem and its surroundings. Our group ranged from age 11 to 78, yet Ari successfully curated an experience that was captivating and suitable for everyone. Ari's insider knowledge and broad network allowed him to share hidden gems and unique experiences throughout our trip. Our time in Israel was truly enhanced by his guidance, and we found ourselves wishing that Ari could accompany us on all our travels. I cannot praise and recommend him strongly enough for the remarkable journey he crafted for us.

Selecting the perfect tour guide for Israel can seem daunting given the myriad of exceptional choices available. Yet, Ari Melnik stands out as an excellent candidate. He embodies the quintessential qualities of a superb guide: punctuality, professionalism, deep-rooted knowledge, and a native's familiarity with the land. In his comfortable vehicle, Ari tailors every experience to the unique needs and interests of each group member, sharing a treasure trove of insights into both modern and historical Israel. During our four-day journey, Ari curated a plethora of memorable moments. These ranged from a crowd-avoiding walking tour of Old Jerusalem to a seamless expedition to Bethlehem with our unforgettable Palestinian guide, Kamal. He also arranged for a tranquil day in the Judean Hills wine country and a riveting antiterrorism training in the West Bank, capped off with a visit to the bustling Tel Aviv food and crafts markets. Our itinerary was as expansive as it was flexible, revealing the unexpected wonders Israel had in store. A connoisseur of the local dining scene, Ari ensured our culinary experiences were just as remarkable, securing reservations at top-tier restaurants in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Considering Ari Melnik for your Israel tour is not just an option, it's a decision you'll be delighted you made.

My encounter with Exclusive Israel Tours completely exceeded my expectations! Ari thoughtfully crafted the perfect journey for our family, taking into account our unique needs and interests. His comprehensive understanding of Israel's people, its culture, and the land, combined with his amiable nature and keen sense of humor, enriched our travel experience enormously. Ari's efforts in accommodating our diverse group, inclusive of varying ages and dietary preferences, were exceptional. As a first-time visitor to Israel, the trip left me with a profound sense of attachment to the country. Ari's educational insights allowed me to truly comprehend its significance and the realities of life within its borders. While extending the duration of the trip is the only enhancement I could imagine, I eagerly anticipate a future opportunity to return and explore more of the wonders of Israel with Ari. His expertise transformed our visit into a cherished gift, revealing the miraculous nature of Israel.

The initial thing that strikes you about Ari is his profound understanding! His expertise in history and the political landscape of Israel, combined with a delightful sense of wit and a deep passion for his country, elevated our tour to extraordinary levels! It's a significant challenge to mobilize a tour bus filled with adults, teenagers, and individuals in their twenties, but Ari managed it effortlessly, ensuring we adhered to our timetable, yet also providing us with options throughout our journey. With Ari, each tour stop extends beyond the typical narratives; we accumulated a wealth of knowledge and garnered a renewed reverence for our Jewish homeland. Kudos to Ari - Truly, you are unparalleled!

Ari epitomizes the ideal tour guide one could ever dream of! His knowledge about Jerusalem is not confined to the basics; he navigates you through the city, unveiling hidden treasures far from the usual tumult, showcasing his extensive familiarity with the routes and the locals. Ari elucidates the history of each site with an incredible level of detail, a quality that perfectly suited me, a student engrossed in studying the history of Jerusalem.

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Introduction to Israel (7 days) Jerusalem & Dead Sea, Tel Aviv

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Exclusive Israel (11 Days) Jerusalem & Dead Sea, Galilee, Tel Aviv, Negev Desert

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Highlights of Israel & Egypt (16 days) Jerusalem & Dead Sea, Cairo & the Pyramids, luxury Nile River cruise, Tel Aviv

Journey Through Egypt, Israel & Jordan (18 days) Cairo & the Pyramids, Abu Simbel, luxury Nile River cruise, Amman, Petra & Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv

Best of Israel & Jordan (16 days) Jerusalem, Galilee, Amman, Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba or Eilat & the Red Sea, Tel Aviv

Highlights of Israel & Morocco (15 Days) Jerusalem & Dead Sea, Tel Aviv, Casablanca, Fez, Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh

Introduction to Israel & Dubai (11 Days) Jerusalem & Dead Sea, Tel Aviv, Dubai & Arabian Desert

Best of Israel & Greece (14 Days) Jerusalem & Dead Sea, Tel Aviv, Athens, Santorini, Porto Heli

Journey Through the Middle East (21 Days) Cairo & the Pyramids, Abu Simbel, luxury Nile River cruise, Amman, Petra & Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Dubai & Arabian Desert

Biblical Lands: Israel & Jordan (13 Days) Jerusalem & Bethlehem, Galilee region, Cities of the Decapolis, Amman & Jerash, King’s Highway, Petra, Jordan River, Masada, Jericho

Highlights of Israel

(9 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis ) Jerusalem & Dead Sea, Galilee, Tel Aviv

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting to visit the historic, cultural, natural and religious highlights of Israel.

Upon arrival, enjoy VIP airport assistance before being transferred to Jerusalem . Built entirely from white stone, Jerusalem glows and changes from white to pink to rose to gold with the changing of the light. Your expert private guide will bring the beautiful city and its incredible, multi-layered history alive. Of immeasurable religious, historic and archaeological importance, the entire Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Temple Mount, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Via Dolorosa and the Western Wall, including the excavation tunnels under the Western Wall. Explore the narrow streets, twisting alleyways and airy plazas, ancient synagogues and churches, and bazaars and boutiques of the Old City's Jewish, Christian, Muslim and Armenian quarters. See the Mount of Olives, Mount Zion and walk upon the old city ramparts. Visit Jerusalem's most important museums, such as the Yad Vashem Holocaust History Museum and the Israel Museum to see the Dead Sea Scrolls. Perhaps also see the Chagall Windows at Hadassah Hospital.

One day, enjoy a tour of the Machane Yehuda Market with a culinary expert guide. Sample local culinary specialties such as burekas (flaky filled pastries), chocolate rugelach and halvah and shop for regional staples such as tahini, za'atar, dried fruits and nuts. Alternatively, with an expert Palestinian guide, enjoy a private excursion to Bethlehem to tour the Church of the Nativity or to Jericho , considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. Perhaps also visit Ein Kerem , a charming village outside Jerusalem regarded as the birthplace of John the Baptist.

Another day, enjoy a private excursion to the Dead Sea . En route, visit Masada , a historic mountaintop fortress. Visit a beach on the Dead Sea and, if desired, relax in the salt and mineral-laden water, famous for its buoyancy and therapeutic qualities. Also enjoy spa access and a buffet lunch at a nearby hotel. If desired, you might also like to opt for a hike in the lush Ein Gedi oasis or perhaps visit Qumran , an archaeological site surrounding the caves in which the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered.

If desired, we can arrange many special interest activities around Jerusalem, such as a cooking class with a local chef, touring the ancient City of David, joining an archaeological dig, walking through the city's ancient underground water tunnels, specialized shopping or exclusive meetings with local religious experts, geo-political experts, chefs, artists, fashion designers, winery owners or even former Israeli operatives.

Continue to the Galilee region . Enjoy flexible private touring around the Sea of Galilee (also known as Lake Tiberias and Lake Kinneret), an area renowned for its beautiful landscapes and proximity to important historical and biblical sites. Visit important historical and biblical sites such as Capernaum, Mount of the Beatitudes, Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and the Fishes and Kibbutz Ginosar and the Yigal Alon Museum. You may choose to visit a local kibbutz or the ruins at Beit Shean, first settled 7,000 years ago. Or, perhaps enjoy active pursuits such as hiking in one of the region’s many nature reserves or a four-wheel drive excursion in the demilitarized zone along the Syrian border. Other options include browsing art galleries in Rosh Pina, sampling wines at local vineyards, geo-political touring, kayaking on the Jordan River or having lunch at a local Druze home.

Next, enjoy flexible touring en route to Tel Aviv. Choose to explore Jewish history and spirituality in Safed , visit the ancient city of Akko (Acre), tour the ancient ruins at Megiddo and Caesarea , tour Haifa and the Baha’i Gardens, or stop in Nazareth to see the Basilica of the Annunciation.

Conclude in Tel Aviv , a vibrant city on the Mediterranean Sea coast. During private touring, experience the best of Israel's largest city: the Neve Tzedek neighborhood, UNESCO-listed Bauhaus architecture, Old Jaffa, the Carmel Market, and museums such as the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, the Design Museum Holon and Beit Hatfutsot: Museum of the Jewish People in Tel Aviv. If desired, we can also arrange an excursion to the fascinating Ayalon Institute , a kibbutz that hid a secret underground ammunition factory. Additional options in Tel Aviv include specialized shopping or strolling the port district or fashionable HaTachana. During free time, perhaps spend time on the beach, shop in the city's markets and leisure districts and enjoy the city's excellent restaurants.

Booking Information >

All Artisans of Leisure tours are private and depart daily.

Please Contact Us for more information regarding the above tour, or to begin customizing your own itinerary.

The Artisans of Leisure Style of Travel:

Testimonials

Our trip to Israel was excellent. Our guide was great, and the VIP airport transfers you arranged were incredible! We’ve used other tour companies in the past and you are far better. ~ D.B., Carlingford, NSW, Australia

We had such an incredible time in Israel. Each day was more interesting than the last…because of our wonderful guide, who seemed to know absolutely everything about everything…It was a great trip! ~ R.G., New York, NY

Our Israel and Jordan trip was excellent in every respect. It was so well organized, with beautiful accommodations and so much attention to detail…The expertise and knowledge of the guides was beyond our expectations.  ~ B.L., Toronto, CA   

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Just Back: Jerusalem and Tel Aviv

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Israel Luxury Trip Experience - 12 Days

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Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Wednesday - Welcome to Israel! - VIP transfer service to your hotel
• Day 2 Thursday - PALMACH museum / Itzhak Rabin center / Tel-Aviv museum / Jaffa
• Day 3 Friday - Ayalon Institute / Rabin's Square / Tel-Aviv port / Carmel market
• Day 4 Saturday - Day at leisure Tel Aviv
• Day 5 Sunday - Caesarea National Park / Haifa / Immigration and Naval museum / Acre
• Day 6 Monday - Safed / Golan Heights / Golan Winery & wine tasting / Mount Bental
• Day 7 Tuesday - Tiberias / Capernaum / Boat ride on the Sea of Galilee / Nazareth
• Day 8 Wednesday - Jerusalem / Jewish and Christian quarters / Western Wall tunnels
• Day 9 Thursday - Israel museum / Knesset / Mahane Yehuda market / Yad Vashem
• Day 10 Friday - Ein Gedi nature reserve / Masada / Dead Sea - lunch and Spa facilities
• Day 11 Saturday - Day at leisure or Bethlehem and Jericho Tour (additional charge)
• Day 12 Sunday - Private departure transfer from Jerusalem hotel to Ben Gurion airport

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Operated by click tours.

Click Tours are a great company to travel with. They offer a selection of more than 200 itineraries that explore destinations across Europe and the Middle East. The experienced team provide carefully planned tours, as well as personalised tailor-made trips! See the wide selection of tours and start planning your next adventure.

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Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Good 4.0
• Itinerary Average 3.0
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 5.0
• Accommodation Excellent 5.0
• Food Good 4.0
• Tour Operator Click Tours 3.9
• BN Bob · 20th June 2022 First, I want to say that my driver/guide Udi Guberman made the trip a pleasure. He was very knowledgeable about virtually everything along our routes. His commentary made the ancient come alive. He was prompt at pick-up and I never felt rushed. If I... Show more Trip date: June 2022

Frequently Asked Questions

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Good to Know

• Currency ₪ New Israeli Sheqel Israel

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Israel. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Israel. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Israel. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 18th July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 18th July 2024, a minimum payment of 25% is required to confirm your booking with Click Tours. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Click Tours will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
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• Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
• TourRadar is an authorised Agent of Click Tours. Please familiarise yourself with the Click Tours payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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For over 50 years, Gil Travel has been the leading travel management company specializing in Custom Jewish heritage tours of Israel. Our deep-rooted passion and expertise in high-end Jewish-related Israel travel have made us the go-to choice for those seeking a profound connection to their Israeli Jewish heritage.

Jewish tours to Israel are not just trips; they are unique opportunities to connect with your roots. Imagine a Jewish heritage trip to Israel where you can lounge by the sea, play matkot, and soak up the sun. Envision the excitement of counting down the days until you stand before the Dead Sea Scrolls in the architectural marvel of the Israel Museum which you have been talking about for years with colleagues or family.

Share stories from your guided fully custom heritage tour of Masada with your congregation, or express to your coworkers the profound impact you felt while visiting Yad Vashem.

Beyond the popular sites, Gil Travel can also introduce you to off-the-beaten-path experiences, like visits to ancient settlement ruins or museums celebrating the musical history of the Jewish people, and even locating your own family heritage to visit in Israel. In addition, for those that keen on diving into contemporary Israel, we’ve got you covered, from meeting locals to understanding the essence of The Startup Nation.

With decades of experience, we craft custom luxury heritage tours in Israel that cater to diverse groups, always keeping your unique Jewish heritage needs at the forefront. Our extensive knowledge of Israel and fleet of professionals ensures a meticulously planned itinerary, tailored just for you.

We’re proud to have collaborated with esteemed Jewish organizations like Birthright and Maccabi USA. Whether it’s all-inclusive Israel tours custom packages or private journeys , we send thousands on their dream high-end Jewish heritage trip to Israel annually. 

Our dedicated staff is committed to curating transformative Jewish tours, and we’re confident in helping you plan your ultimate Jewish heritage tour in Israel.

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Private Day Tours

Touring Israel offers you exceptional custom tailored private tours of the Land of Israel with your own expert tour guide. We create itineraries focused on your specific guidelines and interests. Our premium services give you the flexibility to explore Israel at the highest level of service that you deserve.

Whether you’re in Israel on business, or perhaps visiting family, sometimes you only have a day or two to actually do some touring. Touring Israel offers a wide range of single day tours that allow you to see the absolute maximum in the limited time you have available.

Some Suggested One Day Itineraries:

Christian jerusalem & bethlehem, highlights include:.

• Via Dolorosa
• Church of the Holy Sepulcher
• Temple Mount
• Arab Market
• Western Wall
• Mt of Olives
• Garden of Gethsemane
• Bethlehem including the Church of the Nativity.

Jewish Jerusalem

• The Western Wall and tunnels
• Davidson Center excavations
• The Jewish Quarter in depth
• The City of David

Cultural Jerusalem

• Old city including the Western Wall, Temple Mount and Arab Market
• Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum & Memorial
• Israel Museum including the Shrine of the Book
• Haas Promenade Overlook

Dead Sea & Masada

• Dip in the Dead Sea
• Full tour of Masada, King Herod’s ancient mountain top fortress
• Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

Tel Aviv – Jaffa

• Neve Tzedek
• Carmel Market
• Founder Square
• Independence Hall
• Bauhaus Architecture
• Palmach or Diaspora Museum
• Rabin Square

Haifa & North Coast

• Bahai Shrine and gardens
• Akko (Acre) Ancient Port City including the old city, Crusader walls, Citadel and Knight’s Halls
• Rosh Hanikra Grottoes

Christian Galilee

• Nazareth including Church of the Annunciation, Church of the Synagogue, Arab Market, Kana & Church of the Wedding
• Sea of Galilee & overlook – “Jesus Boat”
• Mt of Beatitudes
• Jordan River

Jewish Galilee

Highlights include:.

• Mystical city of Tzfat (Safed) including Ari, Caro and Abuhav Synagogues, Kabbalah workshop, artist colony and market, candle factory
• Korazim ancient Jewish village from Tamudic times
• Tzippori including “The Mona Lisa of the Galilee”, 3rd Century CE Synagogue & Jewish village from Mishnaic times

Carmel Coast

• Caesaria – King Herod’s Ancient Sea Port including Roman Theater, Hippodrome, Herod’s palace and other ruins from the Crusader, Byzantine and Roman periods
• Zichron Yaakov – 19th Century tranquil cobblestone village built by Israel’s first Zionist settlers
• Mt. Carmel including overlook, Prophet Elijah’s cave, Bahai Shrine & Gardens

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CHRISTIAN HOLY LAND TOUR

Private luxury designed for the Christian traveler. Once-in-a-lifetime starts now!

• Israel Tour Packages
• Christian Holy Land Tour Package

Private Tour Package series: Luxury Christian Holy Land Experience The perfect bucket-list experience for parties of 2 – 8 travelers. Tour the Holy Land for 10 days/9 nights in the finest luxury accommodations. Explore the Land of the Bible on an incredible private journey that’s anything but cookie-cutter. Pace: Comfortable Activity level: Moderate (walking) var packageBookingPageId = '3973'; Overview Itinerary Leisure day Upgrades Extensions Formalities Inquiry Overview The Luxury Christian Holy Land Experience

The Christian Holy Land Tour is a journey through the history of the Land of the Bible: from the ancient roots of Christianity to the life and teachings of Jesus, and through the millennia of Church life up to the present day. From the lush Galilean Landscape to the splendor of Jerusalem and all the places in between, you’ll be amazed at how much you can do and see while still maintaining a comfortable pace.

This non-denominational Christian tour is designed to provide travelers an in-depth exploration of the historical, cultural, and religious landmarks that make the Holy Land one of the world’s great treasures. This package is designed for travelers who would like to experience both must-sees and unique encounters all while traveling in the comfort of a private tour in high-end accommodations.

This tour package is available throughout the calendar year except for select blackout dates. You can book this package at one of three different levels: Deluxe, Luxury, and Luxury Exclusive.

Christian Holy Land Tour pricing*

*Price per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement will apply for any guests staying in a single occupancy room. Prices subject to change

The Christian Holy Land Experience

Day 1 – arrival day.

VIP arrival Transfer to your hotel Relax and unwind Explore Jaffa (on own) Dinner at leisure

Overnight : Tel Aviv

Day 2 – North to Galilee

Caesarea National Park Tel Megiddo Lunch on own Nazareth Mt. Precipice Dinner included

Overnight : North

Day 3 – Golan & Galilee

Caesarea Philippi Lunch on own Mt. of Beatitudes Capernaum & Tabgha Galilee Boat Ride Dinner included

Day 4 – Lower Galilee

Mount Tabor Sindyanna of Galilee Lunch on own Benedictine Abbey Dinner at leisure

Overnight : Jerusalem

Day 5 – Jerusalem Old City

Mount of Olives Gethsemane Via Dolorosa Holy Sepulchre Davidson Center Dinner at leisure

Day 6 – Jerusalem & Bethlehem

Yad Vashem Memorial Lunch on own Bethlehem Dinner at leisure

Day 7 – Judean Desert

The fortress at Masada Dead Sea experience Lunch included Return to Jerusalem Dinner at leisure

Day 8 – Jerusalem

City of David Lunch on own Israel Museum Dinner at leisure

Day 9 – Leisure Day

Enjoy a day on your own in Jerusalem or choose from one of the other options in the Leisure day tab.

Dinner at leisure

Day 10 – Departure Day

Spend your last morning exploring on your own, relaxing at the hotel, or shopping for souvenirs.

Transfer to Airport VIP Departure Assistance

Have a safe flight!

Leisure day

Spend your leisure day on your own or choose one of these options

• Latrun Armored Corps Memorial
• Burma Road Jeep Tour
• Lunch on your own
• Ammunition Hill
• Dinner on your own

• Artisan Goat Cheese Farm
• Boutique Winery Tour
• Machne Yehuda Market Culinary Experience
• Dinner is included

• Mt. Herzl Nat’l Cemetery
• Theodor Herzl Museum
• Knesset & Supreme Court
• M. Begin Heritage Center

This full-day tour of some of the Jerusalem area’s finest wineries will satisfy every oenophile’s thirst. Explore the history of wine-making in the region, learn about the fascinating technologies that enable the production of top-quality wines in harsh climates, and enjoy a taste of some of the best wines being sold anywhere in the world today.

Engage your fighting spirit with an exciting military experience with some of the IDF’s best former counter-terrorism experts. Train in Krav Maga hand-to-hand combat, practice counter-terrorism maneuvers, compete in shooting exercises, and more. See if you have what it takes to join the elite combat forces of the IDF.

Enjoy a private helicopter flight to Mitzpe Ramon in the Negev Desert for an incredible day in and around the Ramon Crater, one of Israel’s most amazing natural attractions. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery, tour the crater and desert surroundings by Jeep, and even rappel down into the crater before returning to Jerusalem by helicopter.

Cross the border into Jordan and take off on a helicopter flight to Petra, one of UNESCO’s amazing World Heritage Sites. Enjoy an expertly guided private tour of the stunning Rose Red City and its famous landmarks: the Treasury, the Siq, and more. Cross Petra off your bucket list, then fly back to Jerusalem.

Take off on an amazing once-in-a-lifetime private helicopter flight over some of Israel’s most beautiful landscapes.

Half-day experience. Please note that this is a Leisure Day add-on and can only be added when you choose to spend the day on your own.

Set out on a special private tour and expert wine tasting at a local boutique winery.

See if you have what it takes to be part of the IDF’s elite counter-terrorism forces.

Finishing touches to make your tour singularly yours

Flexible start day

This itinerary is designed to begin on a Sunday. If you wish, you may shift your tour dates to start on a different day of the week (note: this may result in minor changes to the itinerary that will not affect the overall travel experience or trip value) .

Cost: $500 total

Room upgrades

Crank up the luxury by upgrading from a deluxe-level room to a premium-level room or a suite for your whole trip.

Premium starting from $1,560 per room Suite starting from $4,960 per room

You’re coming all this way, why not cross a few more items off your bucket list?

Choose from one of these amazing trip extensions to add either before or after (or both!) your Tour Package. All extensions offer comprehensive private touring packages in high-end luxury accommodations.

Private 10 day / 9 night tour in luxury accommodations, including a spectacular 4-night Nile Cruise through iconic archaeological sites. Tour highlights: the Pyramids at Giza, the Mighty Sphinx, Old Cairo, Luxor, The Valley of Kings, and much more!

Private 7 day / 6 night tour in luxury accommodations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Tour highlights include: Old and New Dubai, including a visit to the 148th floor of the Burj Khalifa; incredible Desert Safari and traditional hospitality, and much more!

Private 6 day / 5 night tour in luxury accommodations, including all the best of Jordan. Tour highlights include: traditional desert hospitality in Wadi Rum, a mind-blowing tour of the Lost City of Petra, a Dead Sea retreat, and tour of capital city Amman.

Private 6 day / 5 night tour of Egypt in luxury accommodations. Tour highlights: The Pyramids at Giza, the Mighty Sphinx, Karnak, the Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Old Cairo, and much more!

Private 5 day / 4 night tour in luxury accommodations in the economic heart of the UAE. Tour highlights include: modern and classical Dubai, desert hospitality, a day trip to Abu Dhabi, and plenty of down-time and shopping opportunities for all.

Private 5 day / 4 night tour in luxury accommodations with the stunning red desert landscape all around. Tour highlights include: a relaxing day of water sports or beach time in Aqaba, desert hospitality in Wadi Rum, and fabulous tour of Petra.

Formalities

The Christian Holy Land Tour: package details

Package inclusions: • Expertly crafted private itinerary that’s perfect for your party of 2-8 guests. • VIP Meet-and-Greet service upon arrival and private car service to and from the airport. • Nine nights’ accommodation in luxury hotels (according to package level chosen). • Breakfast at the hotel every morning and select lunches and dinners. • Luxury touring vehicle with English-speaking driver; all entrance and activities fees (per itinerary). • Expert services of a private, English-speaking tour guide for your whole trip. • Full backing of Dekel Tours and 24/7 support to ensure smooth running of the trip and real-time response to any unforeseen disturbances.

Package exclusions: • All international airfare. • Travel insurance that includes coverage for trip cancellation/interruption, medical, etc. • Meals listed as “on own” in itinerary. • Activities not listed in itinerary. • All gratuities and other out-of-pocket and personal expenses.

Help with insurance and flights

We strongly recommend that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance in the event that you need to cancel your trip unexpectedly. We suggest arranging insurance through an agent in your home country; in the event that you need to file a claim, it is far easier to do so locally. Note: the best time to purchase travel insurance is within 2 weeks of confirming your trip and paying a deposit.

We partner with Travel Insured International to bring our valued US-based guests the kind of travel insurance that can stand up to our Uncompromising Quality, Uncomplicated Travel promise. Click here for information or to get a quote!

To inquire about flights for your travel package, we recommend that you contact Karen Berger at Preferred Naples Travel, located in Florida. Just be sure to let her know you are traveling with Dekel Tours.

Take the first step toward an unforgettable Israel experience

If you have questions or you want to book this tour, click below to contact one of our friendly tour specialists.

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Your first step toward unforgettable Israel experience

Travel with friends or during off-peak travel seasons for amazing savings (off-peak months: January, February, May, July, August, September, November and December)

Egypt tours which include Nile Cruise can only start on specific days of the week. Please read carefully when booking Egypt tour.

If adding multiple destinations, we recommend pairing Jordan u0026 Israel together (order not important).

Tours in Israel are scheduled to begin on Sunday and end ten days later on Tuesday. It is possible to start Israel tours on a different day of the week. An addition fee will apply and changes to the itinerary might be made to accommodate flexible start date.

Step 1 – Select travel destinations

Choose all destinations for this trip and the order they will be visited in.

Step 2 – Select leisure day option in Israel

Day 9 in Israel itinerary is a leisure day. Choose one of the free or upgraded leisure day options below.

Israel & the IDF

Included in the price

Theme Day: Israel & the IDF

This is a full-day activity.

– Laturn Armored Corps Memorial – Burma Road Jeep Tour – Lunch on your onw – Ammunition Hill – Dinner on your onw

Overnight: Jerusalem

Spend the day on your own

Half-day upgrade options available – click “Select”

Choose to spend the day on your own shopping or relaxing on the beach or choose from the half-day activity options. Please note, you can choose a maximum of two half-day activities.

Culinary & Wine

Included in price

Artisan Goat Cheese Farm Boutique Winery Tour Lunch on your own Machne Yehuda Market Culinary Experience Dinner is included

Modern Israel

Mt.Herzl Nat’l Cemetery Theodor Herzl Museum Lunch on your own Knesset & Supreme Court M. Begin Heritage Center Dinner on your own

Wine for Aficionados

$300 per person

Warrior Adventure

$3,650 total

Mitzpe Ramon

$250 per person

Petra, Jordan

$500 per person

Select your leisure day adventure(s)

Choose up to 2 half-day extras to spice up your leisure day

Aerial Tour by Helicopter

Wine tasting

Army Outing

See if you have what it takes to be part of the IDF’s elite counter-terrorism forces.

Step 3 – Select package level

Package level applies to all destinations in this trip.

Package level – Deluxe Comfortable accommodations at 4+ star hotels such as Beach Hotel Tel Aviv (Israel), Made up Hotel (Egypt), Desert Hotel (Jordan) and similar.

Package level – Luxury Luxury accommodations at 5 star hotels such as Beach Hotel Tel Aviv (Israel), Made up Hotel (Egypt), Desert Hotel (Jordan) and similar.

Package level – Luxury Exclusive Luxury accommodations at 5+ star hotels such as Beach Hotel Tel Aviv (Israel), Made up Hotel (Egypt), Desert Hotel (Jordan) and similar.

Step 4 – Select the number of travelers and accommodation preferences

Select the type of room in all hotels for this trip. Deluxe is the default and is included in price. Premium and Suite are upgrades and are charged extra.

Select the number of people staying in each room. Please note, Single Supplement Fee will apply for single occupancy rooms

Step 5 – Select travel dates

Select preferred travel year and month, step 6 – travel calendar.

Here you will find all the information about the flights, border crossings and visas for this trip

Step 7 – Review & book

Please review carefully before placing your order

Name this trip

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Israel Highlights Tour

Select Egypt experience

Egyptian Wonders – Cairo, Pyramids & Nile Cruise

Private 10 day / 9 night tour in luxury accommodations, including a spectacular 4 night Nile Cruise through iconic archaeological sites. Tour highlights: the Pyramids at Giza, Old Cairo and the Khan el-Khalili suq, the Mighty Sphinx, Luxor, and much more!

The Highlights of Egypt

Private 8 day / 7 night tour in luxury accommodations, including a spectacular 4 night Nile Cruise through iconic archaeological sites. Tour highlights: the Pyramids at Giza, Old Cairo and the Khan el-Khalili suq, the Mighty Sphinx, Luxor, and much more!

Pyramids & Beyond – Mini-Egypt: Giza, Cairo & Luxor

Private 6 day / 5 night tour in luxury accommodations. Tour highlights: the Pyramids at Giza, Old Cairo and the Khan el-Khalili suq, the Mighty Sphinx, Luxor, and much more!

Select Jordan experience

Incredible Jordan – The Ultimate Jordan Tour

Red Desert Adventure – Mini-Jordan: Wadi Rum & Petra

Select UAE experience

Enjoy the Emirates – Dubai, Abu Dhabi & more!

Dazzling Dubai – Mini-UAE: Dubai Getaway

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For booking purposes, please provide the following information about at least one person participating in this trip.

In case of combining 3+ destinations (including Jordan), we recommend pairing Israel and Jordan (in whatever order) together.

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Discover more of our amazing private Israel tour packages

Best of Israel: The Culinary & Wine Tour

10 Days/9 Nights in luxury hotels.

The Culinary and Wine Tour brings you the best of Israel’s incredible food and wine scene on your journey through the country’s historical, cultural, and natural landmarks. Through local open-air markets, traditional cooking workshops, boutique wineries, scrumptious street food stands, and all the fascinating places in between, you’ll be amazed at how much you can do and see (and eat and drink) while still maintaining a comfortable pace.

This is Israel: The Highlights Tour

The Israel Highlights Tour brings you all of Israel’s heavy hitters in one amazing journey. Embark on a private luxury tour of Israel, from the glitter of modern Tel Aviv to the ancient splendor of Jerusalem and all the incredible places in between. You’ll be amazed at how much you can do and see while still maintaining a comfortable pace. This is Israel: Uncomplicated!

Best of Israel: The Outdoor Adventure Tour

11 Days/10 Nights in luxury hotels.

The Outdoor Adventure Tour is the perfect tour of Israel for people who love to get outside and play. Discover all the wonders of Israel on this luxury tour that’s built to keep your heart-rate elevated. Smash your step counter and join us for an incredible journey over the hills, through the deserts, into the craters, and all over this beautiful land.

Want to see Israel your way?

No problem! We love custom designing Israel tours. Your dedicated tour specialist will spend the time to get to know you so we can build you an Israel trip from the bottom up. You can be sure your Israel experience is perfectly suited to you and your specific needs and preferences. Discover the Dekel Tours promise of Uncompromising Quality and Unparalleled Service. It’s how we do Israel: Uncomplicated .

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amazing Holy Land

You'll never be the same again once you've walked the land of the Bible

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My life was forever transformed when I embarked on my first journey to Israel. As the plane touched down in Tel Aviv and we set off towards Jerusalem, I gazed out of the bus window and caught sight of a sign that read, "Jerusalem 38 km."

That singular moment was incredibly powerful, evoking an overwhelming surge of emotions within me. Little did I know that this experience would become the catalyst for a profound change in my life.

From that pivotal moment onwards, I have been passionately involved with Epic Tours Jerusalem, dedicated to guiding groups ranging from 15 to 850 people on unforgettable journeys to the Holy Land. Witnessing the profound impact this incredible land, blessed by God, has on the lives of those who visit, has been nothing short of awe-inspiring.

I extend an open invitation to join us on this extraordinary pilgrimage. The allure of this land, its people, and the remarkable sites it offers will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on your soul. Miracles abound here, and you will find that one trip will never be enough.

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Epic Tours Jerusalem specializes in exceptional Middle East tourism, focusing on Israel, Jordan, and Egypt. Over the years, our time spent in these awe-inspiring countries has allowed us to forge deep friendships and connections.

Personally, I have been fortunate enough to call this region my home since 2011, cherishing every single moment of it.

You may have seen countless pictures of the Pyramids, Petra, Jerusalem, the Nile River, and more. However, try to envision yourself actually walking the ancient lands of the Bible, experiencing the wonder of the Pyramids of Giza, the beauty of Petra's Treasury, cruising down the Nile to the Valley of the Kings, marveling at the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, and effortlessly floating in the Dead Sea. This sense of excitement and wonder will undoubtedly captivate you as you embark on this extraordinary journey through the land of the Bible.

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A Plan to Remake the Middle East

While talks for a cease-fire between israel and hamas continue, another set of negotiations is happening behind the scenes..

This transcript was created using speech recognition software. While it has been reviewed by human transcribers, it may contain errors. Please review the episode audio before quoting from this transcript and email [email protected] with any questions.

From New York Times, I’m Michael Barbaro. This is The Daily.

[MUSIC CONTINUES]

Today, if and when Israel and Hamas reach a deal for a ceasefire fire, the United States will immediately turn to a different set of negotiations over a grand diplomatic bargain that it believes could rebuild Gaza and remake the Middle East. My colleague Michael Crowley has been reporting on that plan and explains why those involved in it believe they have so little time left to get it done.

It’s Wednesday, May 8.

Michael, I want to start with what feels like a pretty dizzying set of developments in this conflict over the past few days. Just walk us through them?

Well, over the weekend, there was an intense round of negotiations in an effort, backed by the United States, to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza war.

The latest ceasefire proposal would reportedly see as many as 33 Israeli hostages released in exchange for potentially hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.

US officials were very eager to get this deal.

Pressure for a ceasefire has been building ahead of a threatened Israeli assault on Rafah.

Because Israel has been threatening a military offensive in the Southern Palestinian city of Rafah, where a huge number of people are crowded.

Fleeing the violence to the North. And now they’re packed into Rafah. Exposed and vulnerable, they need to be protected.

And the US says it would be a humanitarian catastrophe on top of the emergency that’s already underway.

Breaking news this hour — very important breaking news. An official Hamas source has told The BBC that it does accept a proposal for a ceasefire deal in Gaza.

And for a few hours on Monday, it looked like there might have been a major breakthrough when Hamas put out a statement saying that it had accepted a negotiating proposal.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the ceasefire proposal does not meet his country’s requirements. But Netanyahu says he will send a delegation of mediators to continue those talks. Now, the terms —

But those hopes were dashed pretty quickly when the Israelis took a look at what Hamas was saying and said that it was not a proposal that they had agreed to. It had been modified.

And overnight —

Israeli troops stormed into Rafah. Video showing tanks crashing over a sign at the entrance of the city.

— the Israelis launched a partial invasion of Rafah.

It says Hamas used the area to launch a deadly attack on Israeli troops over the weekend.

And they have now secured a border crossing at the Southern end of Gaza and are conducting targeted strikes. This is not yet the full scale invasion that President Biden has adamantly warned Israel against undertaking, but it is an escalation by Israel.

So while all that drama might suggest that these talks are in big trouble, these talks are very much still alive and ongoing and there is still a possibility of a ceasefire deal.

And the reason that’s so important is not just to stop the fighting in Gaza and relieve the suffering there, but a ceasefire also opens the door to a grand diplomatic bargain, one that involves Israel and its Arab neighbors and the Palestinians, and would have very far-reaching implications.

And what is that grand bargain. Describe what you’re talking about?

Well, it’s incredibly ambitious. It would reshape Israel’s relationship with its Arab neighbors, principally Saudi Arabia. But it’s important to understand that this is a vision that has actually been around since well before October 7. This was a diplomatic project that President Biden had been investing in and negotiating actually in a very real and tangible way long before the Hamas attacks and the Gaza war.

And President Biden was looking to build on something that President Trump had done, which was a series of agreements that the Trump administration struck in which Israel and some of its Arab neighbors agreed to have normal diplomatic relations for the first time.

Right, they’re called the Abraham Accords.

That’s right. And, you know, Biden doesn’t like a lot of things, most things that Trump did. But he actually likes this, because the idea is that they contribute to stability and economic integration in the Middle East, the US likes Israel having friends and likes having a tight-knit alliance against Iran.

President Biden agrees with the Saudis and with the Israelis, that Iran is really the top threat to everybody here. So, how can you build on this? How can you expand it? Well, the next and biggest step would be normalizing relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

And the Saudis have made clear that they want to do this and that they’re ready to do this. They weren’t ready to do it in the Trump years. But Mohammed bin Salman, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, has made clear he wants to do it now.

So this kind of triangular deal began to take shape before October 7, in which the US, Israel, and Saudi Arabia would enter this three way agreement in which everyone would get something that they wanted.

And just walk through what each side gets in this pre-October 7th version of these negotiations?

So for Israel, you get normalized ties with its most important Arab neighbor and really the country that sets the tone for the whole Muslim world, which is Saudi Arabia of course. It makes Israel feel safer and more secure. Again, it helps to build this alliance against Iran, which Israel considers its greatest threat, and it comes with benefits like economic ties and travel and tourism. And Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been very open, at least before October 7th, that this was his highest diplomatic and foreign policy priority.

For the Saudis, the rationale is similar when it comes to Israel. They think that it will bring stability. They like having a more explicitly close ally against Iran. There are economic and cultural benefits. Saudi Arabia is opening itself up in general, encouraging more tourism.

But I think that what’s most important to the Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, is what he can get from the United States. And what he has been asking for are a couple of essential things. One is a security agreement whose details have always been a little bit vague, but I think essentially come down to reliable arms supplies from the United States that are not going to be cut off or paused on a whim, as he felt happened when President Biden stopped arms deliveries in 2021 because of how Saudi was conducting its war in Yemen. The Saudis were furious about that.

Saudi Arabia also wants to start a domestic nuclear power program. They are planning for a very long-term future, possibly a post-oil future. And they need help getting a nuclear program off the ground.

And they want that from the US?

And they want that from the US.

Now, those are big asks from the us. But from the perspective of President Biden, there are some really enticing things about this possible agreement. One is that it will hopefully produce more stability in the region. Again, the US likes having a tight-knit alliance against Iran.

The US also wants to have a strong relationship with Saudi Arabia. You know, despite the anger at Mohammed bin Salman over the murder of the Saudi dissident Jamal Khashoggi, the Biden administration recognizes that given the Saudis control over global oil production and their strategic importance in the Middle East, they need to have a good relationship with them. And the administration has been worried about the influence of China in the region and with the Saudis in particular.

So this is an opportunity for the US to draw the Saudis closer. Whatever our moral qualms might be about bin Salman and the Saudi government, this is an opportunity to bring the Saudis closer, which is something the Biden administration sees as a strategic benefit.

All three of these countries — big, disparate countries that normally don’t see eye-to-eye, this was a win-win-win on a military, economic, and strategic front.

That’s right. But there was one important actor in the region that did not see itself as winning, and that was the Palestinians.

[MUSIC PLAYING]

First, it’s important to understand that the Palestinians have always expected that the Arab countries in the Middle East would insist that Israel recognize a Palestinian state before those countries were willing to essentially make total peace and have normal relations with Israel.

So when the Abraham Accords happened in the Trump administration, the Palestinians felt like they’d been thrown under the bus because the Abraham Accords gave them virtually nothing. But the Palestinians did still hold out hope that Saudi Arabia would be their savior. And for years, Saudi Arabia has said that Israel must give the Palestinians a state if there’s going to be a normal relationship between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Now the Palestinians see the Saudis in discussions with the US and Israel about a normalization agreement, and there appears to be very little on offer for the Palestinians. And they are feeling like they’re going to be left out in the cold here.

Right. And in the minds of the Palestinians, having already been essentially sold out by all their other Arab neighbors, the prospect that Saudi Arabia, of all countries, the most important Muslim Arab country in the region, would sell them out, had to be extremely painful.

It was a nightmare scenario for them. And in the minds of many analysts and US officials, this was a factor, one of many, in Hamas’s decision to stage the October 7th attacks.

Hamas, like other Palestinian leaders, was seeing the prospect that the Middle East was moving on and essentially, in their view, giving up on the Palestinian cause, and that Israel would be able to have friendly, normal relations with Arab countries around the region, and that it could continue with hardline policies toward the Palestinians and a refusal, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said publicly, to accept a Palestinian state.

Right. So Michael, once Hamas carries out the October 7th attacks in an effort to destroy a status quo that it thinks is leaving them less and less relevant, more and more hopeless, including potentially this prospect that Saudi Arabia is going to normalize relations with Israel, what happens to these pre-October 7th negotiations between the US, Saudi Arabia, and Israel?

Well, I think there was a snap assumption that these talks were dead and buried. That they couldn’t possibly survive a cataclysm like this.

But then something surprising happened. It became clear that all the parties were still determined to pull-off the normalization.

And most surprisingly of all, perhaps, was the continued eagerness of Saudi Arabia, which publicly was professing outrage over the Israeli response to the Hamas attacks, but privately was still very much engaged in these conversations and trying to move them forward.

And in fact, what has happened is that the scope of this effort has grown substantially. October 7th didn’t kill these talks. It actually made them bigger, more complicated, and some people would argue, more important than ever.

We’ll be right back.

Michael, walk us through what exactly happens to these three-way negotiations after October 7th that ends up making them, as you just said, more complicated and more important than ever?

Well, it’s more important than ever because of the incredible need in Gaza. And it’s going to take a deal like this and the approval of Saudi Arabia to unlock the kind of massive reconstruction project required to essentially rebuild Gaza from the rubble. Saudi Arabia and its Arab friends are also going to be instrumental in figuring out how Gaza is governed, and they might even provide troops to help secure it. None of those things are going to happen without a deal like this.

Fascinating.

But this is all much more complicated now because the price for a deal like this has gone up.

And by price, you mean?

What Israel would have to give up. [MUSIC PLAYING]

From Saudi Arabia’s perspective, you have an Arab population that is furious at Israel. It now feels like a really hard time to do a normalization deal with the Israelis. It was never going to be easy, but this is about as bad a time to do it as there has been in a generation at least. And I think that President Biden and the people around him understand that the status quo between Israel and the Palestinians is intolerable and it is going to lead to chaos and violence indefinitely.

So now you have two of the three parties to this agreement, the Saudis and the Americans, basically asking a new price after October 7th, and saying to the Israelis, if we’re going to do this deal, it has to not only do something for the Palestinians, it has to do something really big. You have to commit to the creation of a Palestinian state. Now, I’ll be specific and say that what you hear the Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, say is that the agreement has to include an irreversible time-bound path to a Palestinian state.

We don’t know exactly what that looks like, but it’s some kind of a firm commitment, the likes of which the world and certainly the Israelis have not made before.

Something that was very much not present in the pre-October 7th vision of this negotiation. So much so that, as we just talked about, the Palestinians were left feeling completely out in the cold and furious at it.

That’s right. There was no sign that people were thinking that ambitiously about the Palestinians in this deal before October 7th. And the Palestinians certainly felt like they weren’t going to get much out of it. And that has completely changed now.

So, Michael, once this big new dimension after October 7th, which is the insistence by Saudi Arabia and the US that there be a Palestinian state or a path to a Palestinian state, what is the reaction specifically from Israel, which is, of course, the third major party to this entire conversation?

Well, Israel, or at least its political leadership, hates it. You know, this is just an extremely tough sell in Israel. It would have been a tough sell before October 7th. It’s even harder now.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is completely unrepentantly open in saying that there’s not going to be a Palestinian state on his watch. He won’t accept it. He says that it’s a strategic risk to his country. He says that it would, in effect, reward Hamas.

His argument is that terrorism has forced a conversation about statehood onto the table that wasn’t there before October 7th. Sure, it’s always in the background. It’s a perennial issue in global affairs, but it was not something certainly that the US and Israel’s Arab neighbors were actively pushing. Netanyahu also has — you know, he governs with the support of very right-wing members of a political coalition that he has cobbled together. And that coalition is quite likely to fall apart if he does embrace a Palestinian state or a path to a Palestinian state.

Now, he might be able to cobble together some sort of alternative, but it creates a political crisis for him.

And finally, you know, I think in any conversation about Israel, it’s worth bearing in mind something you hear from senior US officials these days, which is that although there is often finger pointing at Netanyahu and a desire to blame Netanyahu as this obstructionist who won’t agree to deals, what they say is Netanyahu is largely reflecting his population and the political establishment of his country, not just the right-wingers in his coalition who are clearly extremist.

But actually the prevailing views of the Israeli public. And the Israeli public and their political leaders across the spectrum right now with few exceptions, are not interested in talking about a Palestinian state when there are still dozens and dozens of Israeli hostages in tunnels beneath Gaza.

So it very much looks like this giant agreement that once seemed doable before October 7th might be more important to everyone involved than ever, given that it’s a plan for rebuilding Gaza and potentially preventing future October 7th’s from happening, but because of this higher price that Israel would have to pay, which is the acceptance of a Palestinian state, it seems from everything you’re saying, that this is more and more out of reach than ever before and hard to imagine happening in the immediate future. So if the people negotiating it are being honest, Michael, are they ready to acknowledge that it doesn’t look like this is going to happen?

Well, not quite yet. As time goes by, they certainly say it’s getting harder and harder, but they’re still trying, and they still think there’s a chance. But both the Saudis and the Biden administration understand that there’s very little time left to do this.

Well, what do you mean there’s very little time left? It would seem like time might benefit this negotiation in that it might give Israel distance from October 7th to think potentially differently about a Palestinian state?

Potentially. But Saudi Arabia wants to get this deal done in the Biden administration because Mohammed bin Salman has concluded this has to be done under a Democratic president.

Because Democrats in Congress are going to be very reluctant to approve a security agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia.

It’s important to understand that if there is a security agreement, that’s something Congress is going to have to approve. And you’re just not going to get enough Democrats in Congress to support a deal with Saudi Arabia, who a lot of Democrats don’t like to begin with, because they see them as human rights abusers.

But if a Democratic president is asking them to do it, they’re much more likely to go along.

Right. So Saudi Arabia fears that if Biden loses and Trump is president, that those same Democrats would balk at this deal in a way that they wouldn’t if it were being negotiated under President Biden?

Exactly. Now, from President Biden’s perspective, politically, think about a president who’s running for re-election, who is presiding right now over chaos in the Middle East, who doesn’t seem to have good answers for the Israeli-Palestinian question, this is an opportunity for President Biden to deliver what could be at least what he would present as a diplomatic masterstroke that does multiple things at once, including creating a new pathway for Israel and the Palestinians to coexist, to break through the logjam, even as he is also improving Israel’s relations with Saudi Arabia.

So Biden and the Crown Prince hope that they can somehow persuade Bibi Netanyahu that in spite of all the reasons that he thinks this is a terrible idea, that this is a bet worth taking on Israel’s and the region’s long-term security and future?

That’s right. Now, no one has explained very clearly exactly how this is going to work, and it’s probably going to require artful diplomacy, possibly even a scenario where the Israelis would agree to something that maybe means one thing to them and means something else to other people. But Biden officials refuse to say that it’s hopeless and they refuse to essentially take Netanyahu’s preliminary no’s for an answer. And they still see some way that they can thread this incredibly narrow needle.

Michael, I’m curious about a constituency that we haven’t been talking about because they’re not at the table in these discussions that we are talking about here. And that would be Hamas. How does Hamas feel about the prospect of such a deal like this ever taking shape. Do they see it as any kind of a victory and vindication for what they did on October 7th?

So it’s hard to know exactly what Hamas’s leadership is thinking. I think they can feel two things. I think they can feel on the one hand, that they have established themselves as the champions of the Palestinian people who struck a blow against Israel and against a diplomatic process that was potentially going to leave the Palestinians out in the cold.

At the same time, Hamas has no interest in the kind of two-state solution that the US is trying to promote. They think Israel should be destroyed. They think the Palestinian state should cover the entire geography of what is now Israel, and they want to lead a state like that. And that’s not something that the US, Saudi Arabia, or anyone else is going to tolerate.

So what Hamas wants is to fight, to be the leader of the Palestinian people, and to destroy Israel. And they’re not interested in any sort of a peace process or statehood process.

It seems very clear from everything you’ve said here that neither Israel nor Hamas is ready to have the conversation about a grand bargain diplomatic program. And I wonder if that inevitably has any bearing on the ceasefire negotiations that are going on right now between the two of them that are supposed to bring this conflict to some sort of an end, even if it’s just temporary?

Because if, as you said, Michael, a ceasefire opens the door to this larger diplomatic solution, and these two players don’t necessarily want that larger diplomatic solution, doesn’t that inevitably impact their enthusiasm for even reaching a ceasefire?

Well, it certainly doesn’t help. You know, this is such a hellish problem. And of course, you first have the question of whether Israel and Hamas can make a deal on these immediate issues, including the hostages, Palestinian prisoners, and what the Israeli military is going to do, how long a ceasefire might last.

But on top of that, you have these much bigger diplomatic questions that are looming over them. And it’s not clear that either side is ready to turn and face those bigger questions.

So while for the Biden administration and for Saudi Arabia, this is a way out of this crisis, these larger diplomatic solutions, it’s not clear that it’s a conversation that the two parties that are actually at war here are prepared to start having.

Well, Michael, thank you very much. We appreciate it.

On Tuesday afternoon, under intense pressure from the US, delegations from Israel and Hamas arrived in Cairo to resume negotiations over a potential ceasefire. But in a statement, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made clear that even with the talks underway, his government would, quote, “continue to wage war against Hamas.”

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We’ve seen a ferocious surge of anti-Semitism in America and around the world.

In a speech on Tuesday honoring victims of the Holocaust, President Biden condemned what he said was the alarming rise of anti-Semitism in the United States after the October 7th attacks on Israel. And he expressed worry that too many Americans were already forgetting the horrors of that attack.

The Jewish community, I want you to know I see your fear, your hurt, and your pain. Let me reassure you, as your president, you’re not alone. You belong. You always have and you always will.

Today’s episode was produced by Nina Feldman, Clare Toeniskoetter, and Rikki Novetsky. It was edited by Liz O. Baylen, contains original music by Marion Lozano, Elisheba Ittoop, and Dan Powell, and was engineered by Alyssa Moxley. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly.

That’s it for The Daily. I’m Michael Barbaro. See you tomorrow.

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Hosted by Michael Barbaro

Featuring Michael Crowley

Produced by Nina Feldman ,  Clare Toeniskoetter and Rikki Novetsky

Edited by Liz O. Baylen

Original music by Marion Lozano ,  Elisheba Ittoop and Dan Powell

Engineered by Alyssa Moxley

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If and when Israel and Hamas reach a deal for a cease-fire, the United States will immediately turn to a different set of negotiations over a grand diplomatic bargain that it believes could rebuild Gaza and remake the Middle East.

Michael Crowley, who covers the State Department and U.S. foreign policy for The Times, explains why those involved in this plan believe they have so little time left to get it done.

On today’s episode

Michael Crowley , a reporter covering the State Department and U.S. foreign policy for The New York Times.

Background reading :

Talks on a cease-fire in the Gaza war are once again at an uncertain stage .

Here’s how the push for a deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia looked before Oct. 7 .

From early in the war, President Biden has said that a lasting resolution requires a “real” Palestinian state .

Here’s what Israeli officials are discussing about postwar Gaza.

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The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Renan Borelli, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson and Nina Lassam.

Michael Crowley covers the State Department and U.S. foreign policy for The Times. He has reported from nearly three dozen countries and often travels with the secretary of state. More about Michael Crowley

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