Food & culture Israel Itinerary
The following suggested itinerary includes many of the highlights I recommend experiencing in Israel, with an emphasis on culinary experiences and interesting encounters with Israeli society.
I believe that through personal interaction with the people of this land, one is able to experience Israel on a deeper level. Add to that the tastes and smells that come with it, and you've got a recipe for a wonderful trip!
When we speak, we can discuss any necessary adjustments and also add special activities - especially if you have been here before and are looking for more nooks and crannies to discover.
This option does not include a stay in the northern part of Israel. It can be added upon request if you have enough time during your visit!
Day 1:
Arrival at Ben Gurion International Airport Welcome to Israel!
Transfer to Tel Aviv
Check in at the hotel in Tel Aviv
Rest and relaxation by the beach
Overnight: Tel-Aviv
Day 2:
Breakfast at the hotel
Visit the Old City of Jaffa and stop for a stunning overlook to open our trip together
Explore Jaffa's Flea Market district
Stroll through picturesque Neve Tzedek neighborhood and Rothschild Boulevard, and see the place where Israel was declared a nation - Independence Hall
Experience Israeli innovation and hear about Israel as the "Start Up Nation".
Overnight: Tel-Aviv
Day 3:
Breakfast at the hotel
Explore the colorful and mysterious world of Graffiti in Tel Aviv
Enjoy amazing tastes on a culinary tour of Levinsky Market
Visit the Ayalon Institute Museum - a secret bullet factory from period of the 1948 War of Independence
Overnight: Tel-Aviv
Day 4:
Breakfast in the hotel
Drive South
Visit Ben Gurion's house in the Negev and enjoy the spectacular view of the Zin Valley
A Camel Trek
Experience Bedouin Hospitality and learn about their unique traditions and lifestyle
Overnight: Negev Desert
Day 5:
Breakfast in the hotel
Hike in the beautiful and serene Negev desert
Overlook the magnificent Ramon Crater (Makhtesh Ramon) – the largest crater in the world!
Visit a Boutique Winery or a Goat Farm in the desert and taste its amazing cheeses
Night activity: Star Gazing in the desert
Overnight: Negev Desert
Day 6:
Breakfast at the hotel
Enjoy a Jeep ride through Makhtesh Ramon
Drive south
Visit Beit-Guvrin National Park – the land of 1000 caves, awarded as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Drive to Jerusalem
Overnight: Jerusalem
Day 7:
Breakfast at the hotel
Enjoy panoramic views of Jerusalem from Mount of Olives
Explore the City of David archaeological site
Tour the Old City of Jerusalem:
Visit the Jewish Quarter and the Western Wall
Walk through the Arab Market and overlook the Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount
Visit The Church of the Holy Sepulcher in the Christian Quarter
Overnight: Jerusalem
Day 8:
Breakfast at the hotel
Visit the Israel Museum, where the 2000 years old Dead Sea Scrolls are kept
Explore the bustling Machne Yehuda Market and enjoy the endless flavors and delicacies on a culinary tour
The Geopolitics of Jerusalem – a tour of Jerusalem’s municipal boundaries from several vantage points, discuss the events that led to the building of the Security Fence and possible solutions for the future.
Overnight: Jerusalem
Day 9:
Breakfast at the hotel
Drive east
Tour the Ancient Fortress of Masada (ascend via cable car, descend via the "Snake Path")
Float and relax in the Dead Sea as its healing minerals nourish your skin
Drive to Jerusalem
Check out Minus 430 Art Gallery - street art murals in the abundant buildings by the Dead Sea
Overnight: Jerusalem
Day 10:
Breakfast at the hotel
Visit Tel Azeka which overlooks the beautiful Ella Valley - the arena of the famous biblical battle between David and Goliath 3000 years ago.
A foraging tour in the Judean hills (depends on the season)
Visit a Boutique Winery which uses ancient techniques as they used in Biblical times.
Visit an Israeli Brewery in the Judean Hills
A private Chef Feast in the nature to conclude our trip together
Private transport to Ben Gurion International Airport
LEHITRAOT (SEE YOU AGAIN!)
