How to Plan Your 2 Day Northern Israel Tour from Jerusalem

How to Plan Your 2 Day Northern Israel Tour from Jerusalem

If you’re planning a visit to Jerusalem, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the stunning northern region of Israel. The 2-day tour of Golan Heights, Nazareth, and the Sea of Galilee from Jerusalem is a perfect way to explore the region’s iconic sights and experience the unique culture and history of Northern Israel. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a detailed guide on how to plan your Northern Israel tour from Jerusalem, covering everything from tour highlights to itinerary and practical details.

Tour Highlights

The 2-day guided tour of the Golan Heights, Nazareth, and the Sea of Galilee from Jerusalem lets you experience the best of northern Israel. Here are some of the tour highlights:
  • Explore the dramatic landscapes of the Golan Heights.
  • Visit the hot springs of Hammat Gader.
  • Explore the ancient village of Katzrin, and visit the Talmudic-era synagogue.
  • Hike up to the top of Mount Bental, one of Golan’s dormant volcanoes.
  • Visit Nazareth and see the Church of the Annunciation, the traditional site of the angel’s visit to Mary, announcing she would be the mother of Jesus
  • Tour the Sea of Galilee region and stop by Tabgha, where the miracle of the fish and loaves took place
  • Stop by Yardenit and, if you choose, be baptized in the Jordan River, where John the Baptist baptized Jesus

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Here’s a brief overview of the itinerary over two days:

Day 1

On day 1, you will be picked up from your hotel in Jerusalem and travel to the Golan Heights region, a hilly area in northern Israel near the border with Syria. You’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the region’s iconic sites, including the hot springs of Hammat Gader, the ancient village of Katzrin, and the summit of Mount Bental. After your visit to Golan Heights, you’ll then be transferred to your hotel in Tiberias, located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, where you will stay overnight.

Day 2

On day 2, enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting out for a visit to Nazareth, where you will visit the Church of the Annunciation and see the traditional site of the angel’s visit to Mary. Afterward, head to the Sea of Galilee, where you’ll get to experience the region’s stunning landscapes and visit some of Christianity’s holiest sites. You’ll stop at Tabgha, where the miracle of the fishes and loaves took place, and then continue on to Yardenit, where you’ll have the opportunity to be baptized in the Jordan River. After the tour, you will be returned to your hotel in Jerusalem.

Practical Details

It’s always good to know a few essential details before you go on a tour like this one. Here are some of the most important details to keep in mind:
  • This is a fully-guided tour, so you’ll be accompanied by an expert tour guide for the entire duration of the trip.
  • Accommodation is included in the price of the tour, so you don’t have to worry about finding a place to stay overnight.
  • Transport is also included in the cost of the tour. You will travel in a comfortable air-conditioned bus throughout the tour.
  • Breakfast is included in the price of the tour, but other meals and drinks are not included.
  • This tour runs from Thursday to Saturday, and the pickup time is 5:40 AM.
  • The tour costs $640 per person, and you can book it directly through the Viator website book the tour here.

Book Your Tour Now

This 2-day Northern Israel tour is an excellent way to explore the unique culture and history of the region. With visits to iconic sites like Golan Heights, Nazareth, and the Sea of Galilee, you’ll get to experience the best that Northern Israel has to offer. The tour is fully-guided, and all the essential details are taken care of, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the trip. Be sure to book your tour today and make the trip to Northern Israel unforgettable!

Frequently Asked Questions About Jerusalem

Jerusalem is a city steeped in biblical history and rich culture, making it an alluring travel destination for people from all corners of the world. However, planning a trip to a new destination can be daunting, and you probably have quite a few questions about the city. In this article, we’ll try to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Jerusalem.

What is Jerusalem?

Jerusalem is a city located in the Middle East and is widely regarded as one of the holiest cities in the world by three of the world’s major religions; Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Jerusalem is the largest city in Israel and has a population of over 1 million people.

What is the best time to visit Jerusalem?

The best time to visit Jerusalem is during the spring (April to May) and fall (September to November) seasons. The temperatures are quite mild, and the skies are clear, making it perfect for exploring the city. However, keep in mind that Jerusalem is a popular tourist destination, so expect a lot of crowds during peak season (June to August).

Is Jerusalem safe to visit?

Yes, Jerusalem is generally safe for visitors. The city has a robust security system in place, and the police keep tight control over all public areas. However, as with any major city, it’s important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

What are the must-see attractions in Jerusalem?

Jerusalem has many beautiful and historically significant attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular attractions include:
  1. The Western Wall: This is one of Judaism’s most sacred sites and is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.
  2. The Dome of the Rock: This iconic golden dome is located on the Temple Mount in the Old City and is one of the most significant Islamic sites in the world.
  3. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre: This is the most holy site for Christians, as it is believed to be the location where Jesus was crucified, buried and resurrected.
  4. The Mount of Olives: This site is significant to all three major religions and offers stunning views of the city.

What should I wear when I visit Jerusalem?

Jerusalem is a city with different types of religious and cultural practices, and it’s important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or conservative neighborhoods. For women, it’s suggested to avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, and short skirts. For men, shorts are generally not acceptable, and it’s recommended to dress conservatively as well.

What is the currency used in Jerusalem?

The currency used in Jerusalem is the Israeli Shekel (ILS). Credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, and there are many ATMs available throughout the city.

What is the primary language spoken in Jerusalem?

The official language of Jerusalem is Hebrew, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Arabic is also commonly spoken, especially in East Jerusalem.

What is the food like in Jerusalem?

Israeli cuisine is a fusion of different cultures and is influenced by the country’s location in the Mediterranean. Jerusalem has a thriving food scene and is known for its falafel, hummus, shawarma, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

What are the transportation options in Jerusalem?

Jerusalem has an excellent public transportation network, including buses and light rail. Taxis are also widely available, but it’s best to agree on a fare before getting in. Walking is also an excellent option, particularly in the Old City.

Can I drink tap water in Jerusalem?

Yes, tap water is safe to drink in Jerusalem. The water goes through a rigorous filtration process, and it’s perfectly safe to drink straight from the tap.

How long should I stay in Jerusalem?

The amount of time you should spend in Jerusalem depends on your interests and what you want to see. However, to get a good idea of the city’s offerings, we recommend spending at least three full days in Jerusalem.

Wrapping Up

Jerusalem is a fascinating city with a rich and complex history. We hope that this article has answered some of your most pressing questions about visiting Jerusalem. Remember, planning your trip thoroughly and packing appropriately will make your trip a more enjoyable experience.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Jerusalem

Jerusalem, the capital city of Israel, is a highly religious and historical destination for tourists. With a rich history spanning thousands of years, it offers numerous places to visit and things to explore. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Jerusalem.

1. Visit the Old City

Jerusalem’s Old City is a great starting point to explore the city. Surrounded by walls built in the 16th century, it offers four quarters: the Jewish, Muslim, Armenian, and Christian. The Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has many significant religious and cultural landmarks.

1.1 The Western Wall

Also known as the Wailing Wall, the Western Wall is one of the holiest sites in Judaism. It is believed to be the last remaining wall of the ancient Jewish Temple, which was destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD. Visitors can write prayers on small pieces of paper and place them in the wall’s crevices.

1.2 The Dome of the Rock

The Dome of the Rock is an iconic Muslim shrine situated on Temple Mount, which is also known as Haram al-Sharif. It has a gold dome and intricate mosaics that glow in the sunlight. Non-Muslim visitors are not allowed to enter the dome, but they can admire the exterior and the neighboring Al-Aqsa Mosque.

1.3 The Church of the Holy Sepulchre

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located in the Old City’s Christian Quarter and is believed to be the site where Jesus was crucified and resurrected. The church has many sacred rooms and relics, including the altar of the crucifixion and the empty tomb.

2. Explore the Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter is located in the southeast part of the Old City and is home to many historically significant sites and landmarks.

2.1 The Cardo

The Cardo is an ancient Roman road that was rediscovered during the excavation works in the 1970s. It has many souvenir shops and galleries, and it is a great place to explore Jewish history and culture.

2.2 The Hurva Synagogue

The Hurva Synagogue is one of the most iconic synagogues in Jerusalem. It has a rich history and has been destroyed and restored several times throughout the years. It is known for its impressive design and beautiful interior.

3. Visit the Israel Museum

The Israel Museum is one of the largest and most prestigious art and archaeology museums in the world. It is home to many collections, including Judaica and Jewish Ethnography, Middle Eastern Art, and Archaeology.

3.1 The Dead Sea Scrolls

One of the most significant collections of the Israel Museum is the Dead Sea Scrolls. The scrolls are ancient Jewish texts that were discovered in the 1940s and 1950s in the Qumran Caves near the Dead Sea. The texts include Biblical and non-Biblical manuscripts and provide crucial insight into Jewish history and culture.

3.2 The Shrine of the Book

The Shrine of the Book is a unique building located within the Israel Museum. It is a cylindrical structure designed to resemble the lids of the clay jars that were used to store the Dead Sea Scrolls. The Shrine of the Book houses many of the Dead Sea Scrolls and provides visitors with a history of their discovery and significance.

4. Explore the Mahane Yehuda Market

The Mahane Yehuda Market is located in the western part of the city and is a vibrant and bustling marketplace. It offers a wide range of goods, including fresh fruit and vegetables, spices, and souvenirs.

4.1 Tasting Tour

One of the best ways to explore the market is to join a tasting tour. Visitors can sample local delicacies like hummus, falafel, and fresh bread while learning about the market’s history and culture.

4.2 Shopping

The market is an excellent place to buy souvenirs, including traditional Jewish crafts, ceramics, and jewelry. Visitors can also buy local produce and spices to take home with them.

5. Visit the Mount of Olives

The Mount of Olives is a holy site for all three Abrahamic religions and offers stunning views of the city.

5.1 The Chapel of the Ascension

The Chapel of the Ascension is a small church located on the Mount of Olives. It is believed to be the site where Jesus ascended to heaven after his resurrection.

5.2 The Church of All Nations

The Church of All Nations is a beautiful church located right next to the Garden of Gethsemane. It is also known as the Basilica of the Agony and is believed to be the site where Jesus prayed before his crucifixion.

Book Your Tour Now

Jerusalem is a city full of history, culture, and religious significance. This guide covers only a few of the many places to visit and things to experience in this incredible city. Whether you are interested in religious history, archaeology, or just want to explore the markets and taste the local food, Jerusalem is definitely a destination you won’t forget.

How to Plan Your 2 Day Northern Israel Tour from Jerusalem