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A Seven-Day Travel Itinerary to Israel

Israel offers dramatic desert landscapes near the Dead Sea coast
Israel offers dramatic desert landscapes near the Dead Sea coast | © Subbotsky / Getty Images

Visit Israel to fall in love with vibrant Tel Aviv, the old city of Jerusalem and the magnificent desert views of the Negev. Not sure how to make the best of a trip to the Holy Land? Not to worry; you’ve come to the right place. Here’s how to pass the ultimate week in Israel.

Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and the Dead Sea all feature on Culture Trip’s specially curated seven-day Israel adventure, allowing you to explore this fascinating country without the hassle of having to plan it all yourself.

The gold-topped Dome of the Rock is one of the stand-out buildings in Jerusalem

Start off with a couple of days in Jerusalem, where you will discover historical, religious and cultural treasures dating back thousands of years. Walk the old town and explore sites sacred to Christianity, Judaism and Islam, such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Room of the Last Supper, the Western Wall, the Tower of King David and the Dome of The Rock.

Visit Yad Vashem Museum for an insight into the Holocaust

In addition to the fascinating stories of these holy and historic sites, Jerusalem has several newer attractions worth checking out such as the Israel Museum, which is home to several art installations designed by some of the most renowned artists on the planet. Learn about the Holocaust at the Yad Vashem Museum, taste delicious cuisine at the Machane Yehuda Market and don’t miss out on the incredible Israeli restaurant bearing the same name.

Enjoy views over the Judean Desert from Masada fortress

On your third day, head south towards the Judea Desert, where you can hike the Masada trail and be amazed by the magnificent desert landscapes and even ride camels at Kfar Hanokdim. If you really want to admire amazing views, try arriving at Masada before the sunset to see it while hiking the trail.

Come to the Dead Sea to float on the salt-rich waters

Another thing you absolutely must do in the Judea Desert is, of course, see the Dead Sea, the lowest elevation point on earth and the deepest hypersaline lake in the world. The Dead Sea, from which many cosmetics and nurturing products are produced, is an amazing experience that draws tourists who come to float on the waters, soak in the healing mud and enjoy the magnificent views of the area.

Admire the columns at the archaeological site of Caesarea

Tel Aviv is a world-class city, but make sure to take a day to drive up north, too. Visit Haifa to see the Bahai Gardens and on the way stop at Caesarea’s old port, a town built by Herod the Great in 13-25BCE, where you will find some of the most beautiful coastal and historic sights in Israel. If you have time, check out the nearby Zichron Ya’akov, a picturesque small town popular with local artists and filled with wineries.

The Unesco-badged city of Akko sits on the Mediterranean Sea

End your day by heading up to Akko, an old port city that has been preserved thanks to Unesco with remains dating to 3,500BCE with plenty of additional Greek, Templar and Ottoman influences. Don’t miss out on the fresh seafood in Akko, either.

Hip Tel Aviv is the LGBTQ capital of Israel and a start-up hub

Next, head to Tel Aviv. Explore the coolest neighbourhoods such as Neve Tzedek, Florentin, Jaffa and the White City with the incredible variety of restaurants, bars and cafes on offer. Be sure to hit the city’s best art and design galleries, museums and cultural sites before touring the shops, boutiques and markets. By night, party at some of the bars and clubs in the underground scene or simply chill at the beach.

Jaffa is one of many cool places to visit in Tel Aviv

The coolest city in Israel, Tel Aviv is the LGBTQ capital, a vegan paradise, a hipster haven, the start-up hub of the Middle East and so, so much more.

About the author

I am an architecture student and pilates instructor from Tel Aviv who is passionate about design, architecture, travel, and food. Having lived in London and Hong Kong, I share my passion for all things culture by means of travelling, exploring, writing and eating my way throughout the world.

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