15-day Highlights of Israel & Jordan Tour with Flights

DAY 1 - Tuesday - Depart for Israel
Depart for Israel

DAY 2 - Wednesday - Arrive in Tel Aviv
Arrive in Tel Aviv; transfer to your hotel in this vibrant city, known as Israel's "playground on the sea." Balance of the day is at leisure to rest, relax and acclimate to your new time zone. Perhaps, walk along the bustling beachfront promenade and stop at a café. This evening, attend an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager and fellow travellers at approximately 7 PM. We recommend that you select flights which arrive in your destination no later than 5 PM on day 2 of the itinerary or earlier, if possible 
Overnight: Tel Aviv

DAY 3 - Thursday - City Tour of Tel Aviv
Start with a visit to Jaffa (Joppa), the ancient port city linked with biblical stories of Solomon, Jonah and St. Peter. Tour the ancient ruins and walk to the beautifully reconstructed Artists' Quarter. From atop the hill, stop to admire breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean coast and Tel Aviv. Continue to trendy Neve Tzedek (Tel Aviv's "Soho"), the first neighbourhood constructed outside of Jaffa and to HaTachana, a renovated Ottoman train station converted to a vibrant entertainment complex. Balance of the day is at leisure, or join the optional Panoramic Night Tour of Tel Aviv. Get acquainted with this vibrant and cosmopolitan city on this panoramic tour that begins on bustling Ibn Gvirol Street and travels to Yitzhak Rabin Square with its memorial to the late Israeli Prime Minister. Continue past the Mann Auditorium and Habima, Israel's national theatre to tree-lined Rothschild Avenue known for its distinctive Bauhaus architecture dating back to the 1930s. Dinner is included at a popular Tel Aviv Restaurant 
Optional: Panoramic Night Tour of Tel Aviv with Dinner 
Overnight: Tel Aviv 
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4 - Friday - Caesarea, Nazareth, Northern Israel
Begin the day with a drive north along the crystal-blue waters of the Mediterranean coast to ancient Caesarea; see the astounding Roman, Byzantine and Crusader ruins and the 2000-year-old theatre. At the Visitor's Centre, view the informative presentation before departing for Nazareth. Drive through the rolling Galilean hills to the sacred town where, according to tradition, Jesus spent his childhood and youth; visit the Church of the Annunciation. Continue to your hotel for dinner and overnight 
Overnight: Galilee Region 
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 5 - Saturday - Full Day in the Galilee Region
On your day at leisure in the Galilee Region, mix the serene quiet of the pristine Sea of Galilee, the largest freshwater lake in Israel, with nature, history, and religion. Don't miss the optional full day tour starting at the age-old fishing village of Capernaum on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, home to a celebrated Byzantine-era synagogue and frequently mentioned in the Bible as Jesus' base during his Galilean ministry. Stop at a working kibbutz for a tour, followed by lunch at an authentic Druze restaurant. Continue to Har Bental site of a former Israeli bunker. Finish the day at the ancient site of Banias. Set in the Banias Nature Reserve, one of the most naturally beautiful places in Israel, see ruins of the old city. Afterwards, return back to the hotel in time for dinner 
Optional: Full Day Capernaum & Northern Galilee with lunch 
Overnight: Galilee Region 
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 6 - Sunday - Yardenit, Beit She'an, Jerusalem
Depart from your hotel in the Galilee Region and stop for a tour of a local diamond factory and showroom. After travel to the Jordan River, considered one of the world's most sacred rivers. Visit the popular baptismal site of Yardenit. Head south to reach the impressive archaeological site of Beit She'an, an ancient city dating back to King Saul; see the remains of an ancient Roman city and the ongoing excavations. Before getting to Jerusalem, a stop just outside the city provides a scenic panoramic view. Continue to the hotel in Jerusalem for dinner and overnight 
Overnight: Jerusalem 
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 7 - Monday - Jerusalem Old City Tour
Begin your walking tour of Jerusalem* at the walled Old City with its four distinct sections; the Christian, Jewish, Muslim and Armenian Quarters. Follow the steps along the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of the holiest sites in the Christian world. Pass through the narrow alleys and souks to visit the Western Wall; continue to Mt. Zion; see the Room of the Last Supper and the traditional Tomb of King David. The remainder of the day is on your own. Stroll through the lanes of the Old City, visit the exotic bazaars or, participate in the optional afternoon Jerusalem Old City tour that begins at the Zion Gate. Visit the Cardo, a colonnaded Roman shopping street during the Byzantine period, the Jewish Quarter's four Sephardic Synagogues and the Burnt House, set ablaze by the Romans. Then, on to the Davidson Centre in the archaeological Park with its exhibits and presentations. Tonight's very special optional evening includes dinner at a local restaurant, then attend the spectacular Sound & Light Show 
*Due to local events, the order of the Jerusalem sightseeing might be altered. Details will be provided locally by your Tour Manager 
Optional: Half Day Jerusalem Old City - Jewish Quarter (PM) 
Optional: Illuminated Jerusalem, Restaurant Dinner and Sound & Light Show (PM) 
Overnight: Jerusalem 
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8 - Tuesday - Full Day in Jerusalem
Visit the New City on the optional Jerusalem New City tour. Drive via the Supreme Court building and the Knesset, Israel's Parliament, to the Israel Museum. Here, view the Shrine of the Book where the Dead Sea Scrolls are housed and the miniature model of Jerusalem during Second Temple period. Then, on to Yad Vashem, Memorial to the Holocaust, on the Mount of Remembrance. The optional afternoon tour to Bethlehem includes a visit to the Church of the Nativity, commemorating the birthplace of Christ. A stop for local olive wood handicrafts is included 
Optional: Half Day Jerusalem New City (AM) 
Optional: Half Day Bethlehem (PM) 
Overnight: Jerusalem 
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 9 - Wednesday - Full Day in Jerusalem
A full day to discover this fascinating city on your own. In Jerusalem, one of the oldest and holiest cities in the world, there are endless opportunities to explore. A walk through the city's colourful neighbourhoods reveals a diverse blend of traditional and modern cultures. Or, join the fascinating optional full day tour to Masada and the Dead Sea that begins with a drive along the shores of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, to Masada. Ascend by cable car to the top of these heroic heights; listen to the brave tale of the Zealots who chose to perish rather than live under Roman rule. Visit the archaeological sites including the remains of Herod's Palace, a synagogue, bath houses, dwellings, and workshops. After a visit to the Museum of Masada at the base, drive to the Dead Sea for a swim in the salty and buoyant waters. Return to Jerusalem for a "Farewell to Israel" dinner with your group 
Optional: Full Day Masada & Dead Sea 
Overnight: Jerusalem 
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 10 - Thursday - Travel to the Dead Sea
Depart Israel to begin the tour of Jordan. Transfer from your hotel in Jerusalem and arrive at the Allenby Bridge border. You will be escorted through the border crossing process and then you will be met by your Jordanian Tour Manager. Visa for Jordan is required but arranged free of charge. Israel Departure tax of $50-$60 is payable locally*. Travel to your hotel in the Dead Sea area, the lowest point on earth. The balance of the day is at leisure to swim in the therapeutic mineral rich waters and sample the Dead Sea's renowned restorative powers. Or, join an optional tour to the village of Bethany, the site of Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist. As it was also where the prophet Elijah ascended to heaven via a chariot of fire. The sites that make up Bethany were part of early Christian pilgrimages between Mt. Nebo and Jerusalem. This evening, attend an orientation meeting with your new Tour Manager and travelling companions 
*Please visit Visa and Entry Fee/ Departure taxes page for more details 
Optional: Half Day Bethany 
Overnight: Dead Sea 
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 11 - Friday - Mount Nebo, Madaba, Shobak Castle
After breakfast, travel to Petra. En route, stop at Mount Nebo, the reputed burial site of Moses, overlooking the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea. Continue to the mosaic city of Madaba, where an ancient map of the Holy Land is set into the floor of Saint George's Church. Afterwards, stop at Moses Springs and visit a mosaic school and workshop where you will have the opportunity to learn about this incredible craft. After lunch in Madaba, proceed to Shobak Castle. The ruins of this Crusader castle are located just east of Arabah. Arrive in Petra for overnight 
Overnight: Petra 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 12 - Saturday - Petra City Tour
An astonishing day exploring Petra! Enter the "rose red" city hand-sculpted from a mountain range by the Nabateans in the 3rd century BC. Begin your walk (or ride) through the "Siq", a winding canyon road. At the end, you’ll gaze in total amazement at Petra’s most extraordinary monument - the towering Treasury building rising over 140 feet. Beyond, discover soaring temples, elaborate royal tombs, a theatre, burial chambers and water channels - all remnants of a once great Nabatean culture. Today, Petra is both a Jordanian national treasure and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is truly a once in a lifetime experience! After lunch, there will be time on your own to further explore Petra before returning to the hotel 
Overnight: Petra 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 13 - Sunday - Wadi Rum Desert, Travel to Amman
Morning departure to Wadi Rum, a surreal desert terrain of ancient river beds, wind-sculpted mountains, vast desert vistas and pastel coloured sands. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, often described as the "Valley of the Moon", served as inspiration (and site of the filming) for T.E. Lawrence’s novel, Lawrence of Arabia. Ride in a 4x4 vehicle to explore the valley, with its looming rock faces that seem to grow directly out of the sand and endless skies. Cross the huge red sand dunes and the eroded pillars of sandstone rock known as "The Seven Pillars". Then, lunch in an authentic Bedouin tent in the midst of the desert, where you’ll be introduced to "Zarb" - a selection of foods cooked in an oven with hot coals beneath the desert floor. Afterwards, travel to your hotel in Amman 
Overnight: Amman 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 14 -Monday - Jerash, Amman City Tour
This morning, journey north of Amman to the city of Jerash, the best-preserved example of Roman civilisation in Jordan. Jerash, was part of the Decapolis (the ten large Roman cities of the East) The city features theatres, churches, temples of Zeus and Artemis, a Nymphaeum and colonnaded street. After lunch, proceed to a city tour of Amman, often referred to as the "White City" because of the white stone used to build the houses. Amman is among the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. The tour will take you to the museums, the Citadel, the Roman Amphitheatre, the souks, and the city's modern district. The balance of the day is at leisure. Later this evening, savour a Farewell Dinner with your Tour Manager and travel companions 
Overnight: Amman 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 15 -Tuesday - Depart Jordan
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight 
Meals: Breakfast

Due to local events and holidays, the order of sightseeing may be changed. Details will be provided locally by Tour Manager.

*Book by 26 Sep 2019 and save up to $750 per person!

The below pricing is based on the 02 Jun 2020 departure:

Twin share - from $5389 per person*

Freecall our local travel team on 1300 414 198 to book your seats or enquire about other departure dates.

• Cinema Hotel, Tel Aviv (3.5-star)

This superior tourist class hotel, originally one of the first theaters of Tel Aviv, is located on Dizengoff Circle.

Guest Rooms: Rooms are modern and comfortable. All rooms include air-conditioning, heating, safe, satellite TV, telephone, coffee/tea making facilities and mini refrigerator.

Location: The hotel is located on Dizengoff Circle, on the doorstep of shopping, restaurants and nightlife. The Tel Aviv Performing Arts Center is a short ride away. The hotel has a rooftop terrace with lovely city views and complimentary bicycle rentals.

Restaurants: The hotel's dining room provides a full Israeli breakfast. A complimentary happy hour is also offered by the hotel on Sunday through Friday evenings.

• Nof Ginosar, Galilee (4-star)

This first class kibbutz hotel is located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, less than 20 minutes from Tiberias.

Guest Rooms: Guest rooms are decorated in a casual, comfortable style. Typical standard amenities such as cable TV, hair dryer, coffee maker, and mini refrigerator are provided.

Location: This kibbutz hotel is on the western shores of the Sea of Galilee, within easy driving distance to Tiberias, Capernaum and the Golan Heights.

Restaurants: The hotel dining hall serves a buffet with local specialties and other fresh delicacies. Guests can also enjoy a beverage or light meal at the on-site coffee bar.

• Ron Beach Hotel, Tiberias (4-star)

This first class hotel is located on the waterfront of the Sea of Galilee with lovely views.

Guest Rooms: Comfortable rooms are fitted in contemporary decor with standard amenities. All rooms have views of the Sea. Enjoy the hotel's outdoor pool, private beach, children's playground, and basketball court.

Location: Lovely location on the Sea of Galilee with views of Golan Heights. Only a 10 minute walk to the Tiberias city center by way of a lighted promenade.

Restaurants: Hotel has on-site restaurant and bar for food and refreshments.

• Prima Royale Hotel, Jerusalem (3-star)

This tourist class hotel is centrally located in the Talbieh district, the heart of Jerusalem.

Guest Rooms: Guest rooms have a warm and classic atmosphere with contemporary style decor. Amenities include but are not limited to satellite television, WiFi and in-room safes.

Location: The hotel is well located in the center of the city. Many if not all tourist attractions are within the immediate surrounding area. The Great Synagogue is less than a mile away. The Old City, Western Wall, Israeli Parliament, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Dome of the Rock and Israeli Museum are less than two miles away.

Restaurants: The hotel offers room service during limited hours, and offers a restaurant that serves breakfast and dinner.

• Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa, Dead Sea (5-star)

This deluxe resort has magnificent views of the Dead Sea.

Guest Rooms: The comfortable guest rooms feature bright and stylish decor accents. All rooms are fitted with amenities for a peaceful stay, such as air conditioning, a safe and a minibar.

Location: Guests can enjoy the hotel's pools, spa, fitness center, sauna and solarium. A Dead Sea beach area is situated near the hotel. Nearby local attractions include the Jordan River Baptism Site, Mount Nebo and the city of Madaba.

Restaurants: Mosaico Restaurant features international cuisine, Champions offers American style fare and Il Terrazzo Restaurant serves Italian cuisine. The resort also has two bars, a coffee house and a seasonal BBQ restaurant.

• Marriott Petra, Petra (5-star)

This deluxe hotel overlooks the majestic landscape of Petra and is only a 10 minute drive to the valley entrance.

Guest Rooms: Guest rooms are decorated with traditional, elegant furnishings. They are neutral with rich gold colored accents. They are well equipped with amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy the sauna, spa, Turkish bath, and outdoor pool.

Location: This hotel is surrounded by the breathtaking landscape of Petra. It is 3 miles from the entrance to the Petra valley.

Restaurants: The hotel serves a buffet breakfast. The Dushara restaurant serves Middle Eastern cuisine. L'Affresco serves Italian fare for lunch and dinner. There is also the Aretas Bar & Lounge for drinks and viewing unforgettable sunsets

• Marriott Amman, Amman (5-star)

This deluxe class hotel is located in the business district convenient to the area's main tourist attractions.

Guest Rooms: Guest rooms in the 14-story hotel are contemporary and well-equipped. They feature luxurious bedding and many amenities. Guests can enjoy use of the fitness room, two pools and sauna of the Oasis Health Club.

Location: The hotel is located 1.2 miles from the Coptic Church and King Abdullah I Mosque, 2.7 miles from the National Archaeological Museum, 3.1 miles from The Citadel, and 5.6 miles from the Roman Amphitheater.

Restaurants: Villa Mediterrano has an open, exhibition style kitchen and is available for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Library Lounge is open for dinner and serves fine international cuisine. The hotel also has the Champions Sports Bar and a Piano Lounge.

Is this trip right for me?

This program is moderately active and done at an easy pace. Expect extensive walking during sightseeing in Jerusalem. The rest of the tour requires approximately 1 hour walking; however, Petra is a full day of walking on various surfaces. Time spent on buses ranges from 1 to 4 hours. Sightseeing in Wadi Rum is done by a 4x4 vehicle.