Israel and Jordan Tour

Israel and Jordan tour itinerary

Day 1: August 24, 2023 – arrival in Tel Aviv

Day 1 is arrival day. Please note that the flight is not included in the final price of this Israel and Jordan tour. However, our office can help you find the cheapest flights! Everyone usually arrives at different times on September 12th so this will be a chill day/night.

Our only activity for this day is having dinner and drinks at a rooftop restaurant. This is our welcome party, where we will get to know each other and, at the same time, enjoy our first night in Tel Aviv! The welcome dinner’s food price is optional and not included in the tour price.

We can get together for lunch or drinks if you arrive before dinner. Just let me know, and I will arrange something!

Day 2: August 25, 2023

8:30 AM – Tel Aviv bike tour

We will start the day with a Tel Aviv city tour on a bike. Please be at the hotel lobby at 8:20 AM so we can start the tour. You need to know the layout of Tel Aviv on the first day so that you won’t get lost in the next few days. On this tour, we will visit famous landmarks, rooftops with the best views of the city, take colorful photos of the streets, go to photo spots, and more! Our photographers will take your pictures so you don’t have to worry about this!

After biking, we will hang out on one of the best beaches in Tel Aviv so bring swimming clothes! If you want to surf, let us know so we can rent a surfboard for you (extra cost).

What to bring: change of clothing, swimming clothes, towel

1:00 PM – Jaffa / Florentin walking tour and lunch

After hanging out at the beach, we will head to Jaffa and start our walking tour. Jaffa is one of the best neighborhoods in Tel Aviv and you’ll love this area! I used to live here so it will be really great to show you my old hood.

The architecture in Jaffa is stunning. You’ll find winding alleys lined with stone buildings that date back centuries. The famous Clock Tower Square is not to be missed either – it’s an impressive landmark offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and Tel Aviv skyline. For history buffs, there are plenty of museums and galleries to explore too.

Next we will go to Florentin. The Florentin neighborhood in Tel Aviv is a must-visit destination for all travelers. This vibrant area is known for its unique bohemian style, laid-back atmosphere, and colorful street art. Located in the heart of Tel Aviv, Florentin offers a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and modern urban lifestyle.

One of the main attractions of Florentin is its bustling food scene. From trendy cafés to traditional Israeli restaurants, there’s something for every palate here. Don’t miss out on trying some of the local delicacies, like hummus with warm pita bread or shakshuka (eggs cooked in tomato sauce). You’ll also find plenty of bars and nightclubs where you can dance the night away with locals and fellow travelers alike.

Aside from food and nightlife, Florentin is home to some of the most impressive street art in Tel Aviv.

4:00 PM – Rest and free time

We are scheduled to be back at our hotel in Tel Aviv by 4:00 PM. The van will drop you off at your hotel. You can nap, shower, and freshen up for the evening. It is important to take naps during this Israel and Jordan tour, so enjoy this free time!

7:30 PM: Shabbat dinner with a local family

We will go to one of my friends’ house who will host us a local shabbat dinner where you will learn about customs in Israel. Shabbat dinner is a weekly event that takes place on Friday nights in Jewish households around the world. It’s a time to gather with family and friends, reflect on the week that has passed, and celebrate the beginning of a new one. The traditions surrounding Shabbat dinner vary from family to family but there are some common elements that make it such a special occasion.

The meal itself typically consists of traditional Jewish foods like challah bread, gefilte fish, matzo ball soup, and brisket. Wine is also an important part of the meal, with kiddush (a prayer over wine) being recited before drinking. Candles are lit at the start of the meal as well to signify the beginning of Shabbat.

After dinner activities are optional, but we encourage you to come! We will go to a few bars around town. I will introduce you to some friends, we will walk around the city at night, we will drink at rooftop bars, and even have a midnight snack if you like! This is completely optional as I know not all of you want to party. We can drop you off at the hotel if you don’t wish to join. For those who are joining, alcoholic drinks after dinner or midnight snacks are not included in the tour price.

Day 3: August 26, 2023

6:30 AM – Masada Sunrise Hike and Ein Gedi Tour

We will start the day early and leave Tel Aviv. Please note that this is our check-out so ensure you are ready, packed, and at the lobby by 6:15 AM. Nestled on a plateau overlooking the Dead Sea, this ancient fortress offers stunning views and fascinating historical and cultural significance.

Masada was once the site of a great battle between Jewish rebels and Roman soldiers in 73 AD. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of King Herod’s palace, climb up to the summit via cable car or hiking trails, and witness daily sound and light shows that tell the story of this historic site.

But Masada isn’t just about history; it also offers an opportunity for adventure. Visitors can hike up at sunrise and watch as the sun rises over Jordan in the east while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape.

👉🏽 What to bring: swimming clothes, hiking clothing, running shoes, towel, change of clothing

12:00 PM – Dead Sea

After our hike, we will swim and have lunch at the dead sea. This is a unique destination known for its stunning landscapes, healing properties, and cultural significance.

The Dead Sea is unlike any other body of water on Earth. Its high salt content makes it impossible for marine life to survive, giving it an eerie yet fascinating atmosphere. Not only that but the sea’s mineral-rich waters have been said to benefit those with skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

5:00 PM – Check in at Jerusalem Hotel

We are expected to arrive in Jerusalem by 5:00 PM. We will check in at our hotel and have free time. Take this time to settle down, rest, shower, and nap. There will be welcome drinks at the bar at the hotel but this is up to you if you want to go up the bar or just rest.

7:30 PM: Market Tour, Dinner, and Drinks

We will meet at the loby at 7:15 PM and start our Jerusalem Markets tour. We will go to the Mahane Yehuda Market (also known as “The Shuk”) is an absolute must-visit. This market is like no other – with vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables, to spices and baked goods. It’s also a great place to try some traditional Israeli cuisine such as falafel or shakshuka.

We will have dinner and drinks here. After dinner, you can stay with us for more drinks or go back to your hotel and prepare for tomorrow’s tour.

Day 4: August 27, 2023

8:30 AM – Holy City Tour

Jerusalem, the holy city of Israel, is one of the most spiritual places on earth. It’s a city where three major religions – Judaism, Christianity, and Islam – intersect. This unique blend of cultures and traditions makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an adventure that goes beyond the typical tourist experience.

The old city of Jerusalem boasts numerous historic sites such as the Western Wall (also known as the Wailing Wall) and Temple Mount. You can also explore Christian landmarks such as the Church of Holy Sepulchre or Dome of Rock – a place sacred to Muslims. The Jewish Quarter presents plenty of opportunities to explore its synagogues and museums while offering a chance to try some traditional Jewish cuisine in local restaurants.

Visiting Jerusalem is not only about historical landmarks or religious pilgrimage but also experiencing its vibrant cultural scene. After a 5-hour tour of the Old City of Jerusalem, we will have lunch in a local place inside the Old City.

5:00 PM – Rest and free time

We are scheduled to return to our hotel in Jerusalem by 5:00 PM. The van will drop you off at your hotel. You can nap, shower, and freshen up for the evening. Taking naps during this Israel and Jordan tour is important, so enjoy this free time!

7:30 PM – Dinner

Please be at the lobby by 7:20 PM for dinner. We will go to a hummus place and have drinks after. Hummus is more than just a dip in Israel – it’s a way of life! This creamy, garlicky spread is found everywhere, from markets to restaurants and even on street corners.

Hummus is made from chickpeas, tahini (a paste made from sesame seeds), garlic, lemon juice, and salt. It’s blended until it reaches a smooth, velvety consistency perfect for dipping pita bread or vegetables into. In Israel, hummus is typically eaten for breakfast with warm pita bread and hard-boiled eggs.

But while the ingredients may be simple, the flavors are anything but! Every chef has a special recipe for making hummus that they swear by. Some like it extra garlicky, while others prefer a touch of spice.

After dinner, you can stay with us for more drinks or go back to your hotel and prepare for tomorrow’s tour.

Day 5: August 28, 2023

7:30 AM: Madaba and Mount Nebo

We will start our day for a tour at Mount Nebo. Please be at the lobby by 7:20 AM. Madaba, a small town located in central Jordan, is often overlooked by travelers heading to Petra or Amman. However, this hidden gem has plenty to offer for those who decide to venture there. Known as the “City of Mosaics,” Madaba is home to some of the world’s most intricate and well-preserved mosaic artwork that date back over a thousand years.

Next, we will proceed to Mount Nebo in Jordan. This stunning mountain is believed to be where Moses first saw the Promised Land. With its breathtaking views of the Dead Sea, Jericho, and Jerusalem, it’s easy to see why this spot holds such historical significance.

But there’s more to Mount Nebo than just its biblical past. The surrounding national park offers hiking trails with stunning vistas of the Jordan Valley, and visitors can even catch a glimpse of local wildlife like eagles and hyenas.

5:00 PM: Rest and free time

We are scheduled to return to our hotel in Jerusalem by 5:00 PM. The van will drop you off at your hotel. You can nap, shower, and freshen up for the evening. Taking naps during this Israel and Jordan tour is important, so enjoy this free time!

7:30 PM – Dinner and drinks

Please be at the lobby by 7:20 PM. We will go to a rooftop restaurant for dinner and drinks.

Day 6: August 29, 2023

Full-day Petra tour (Jordan) and desert overnight camp

We will check out the hotel in Jerusalem today. Please be at the lobby by 7:00 AM with all your suitcases. We will cross the border to Jordan and start our Petra tour today.

This ancient city, located in the heart of the mountains, boasts breathtaking views and fascinating history. Petra was once a bustling trading hub and the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom, but fell into obscurity until its rediscovery in 1812 by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt. Now it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World and an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One reason to visit Petra is to experience its unique architecture. The city was carved out of red sandstone cliffs over 2,000 years ago and features stunning structures such as the Treasury, Monastery, and Royal Tombs. We will wander through narrow canyons called Siq leading up to these magnificent buildings while taking in their intricate designs.

We will stay in an overnight desert camp, do bonfire, have some wines, and relax under the stars.

Day 7: August 30, 2023

6:30 AM – Full-day Wadi Rum adventure (4×4 Jeep)

Please be ready to leave our desert camp at 6:20 AM. We will drive to Wadi Rum for a 4×4 desert safari camp. This stunning desert landscape is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural experiences.

From the towering red sandstone cliffs to the vast expanses of sand dunes, Wadi Rum offers endless opportunities for exploration and fun. We will hike through narrow canyons, climb rocky peaks, or take a thrilling jeep tour across the desert. The area has been inhabited by various civilizations over thousands of years and is home to ancient rock art and ruins.

Day 8: August 31, 2023

6:30 AM – Head back to Israel

We will go back to Israel and cross the border today. Please make sure to be checked out at the Bedouin camp by 6:20 AM. We need to leave on time because the desert will get really hot! Please prepare your passports and visas as we are going to go back to Israel. We will have breakfast at the Bedouin Camp.

11:00 AM – Full-day West Bank Tour

Today, we will explore the West Bank. The West Bank is home to some of the most historic and culturally significant sites in Israel. From Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, to Jericho, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, there is no shortage of fascinating landmarks to explore. You can also visit Hebron, a city that boasts religious significance for both Jews and Muslims alike.

6:00 PM: Dinner and check-in at Haifa

We will spend the night in Haifa. Since this will be a long day of traveling, we will have an early dinner and rest early. Of course, if you want to stay for drinks with us, that is optional!

Day 8: August 31, 2023

8:30 AM – Haifa City tour

We will spend the night in Haifa. Haifa is home to the world-renowned Baha’i Gardens, a breathtaking terraced garden complex cascading down Mount Carmel’s side. The gardens are not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also offer some of the best views in the entire city. Additionally, Haifa is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and cultural institutions showcasing everything from traditional Israeli art to contemporary installations.

8:30 AM – Acre city and market walk

We will have lunch with a local Yemeni family who will cook us homemade food. Then we will proceed to Acre. One of the most exciting things about visiting Acre is exploring its famous underground tunnels. These tunnels were used by knights during the Crusades and have remained largely untouched since then.

They are an incredible sight to see and a must-visit for anyone interested in history or architecture. Plus, they make for some pretty epic photo ops. Another highlight of Acre is its bustling marketplaces, which we will also visit. Here you can find everything from spices to clothing, all at bargain prices.

Day 9: September 1, 2023

6:30 AM – Check out at the hotel in Haifa

Please be at the lobby with your suitcase at 6:20 AM. Make sure you also checked out and returned your keys. We will drive for 1.5 hours to Golan Heights, the wine region of Israel that is bordered by Syria.

8:30 – ATV Tour in the Golan Heights

We will start the day with an ATV tour in the Golan. This landscape is one of the most diverse and breathtaking places that you will ever experience. From its mountainous terrain to its lush greenery, the Golan Heights offers a unique perspective on Israeli geography. Aside from its scenic beauty and outdoor activities, Golan Heights also has a rich cultural history that visitors can explore. With archaeological sites spanning back thousands of years, travelers can immerse themselves in ancient civilizations while learning about their way of life.

2:00 PM – Vineyard lunch and wine tasting

A private chef will arrange our lunch at a vineyard where we will do our wine tasting as well. When you think of wine, Israel might not be the first country to come to mind. But trust us, it should be! Israel has a long and rich history of winemaking, dating back thousands of years. With its warm climate and unique soil composition, the country produces some truly amazing wines worth exploring.

7:00 PM – Back to Tel Aviv

This is the final night of our Israel and Jordan tour so depending on how we feel that day, we can go out for drinks and snacks! This is optional and you can tap out if you are tired.

Day 10 – September 2, 2023

9:30 AM – Market tour and farewell brunch

We will go around Carmel Market and have lunch at a top restaurant inside the market. The atmosphere at Carmel Market is simply electric. The vendors are always shouting out their deals and trying to entice visitors with samples of their wares. It’s impossible not to get caught up in the excitement! Plus, there’s always some street performance or live music in the background – so even if you’re not in the mood for shopping, there’s plenty of entertainment.

Here, we will have brunch, drink, eat, and say our goodbyes! My local Israeli friends will also join our farewell party brunch.