B2 – Holy Land Encounter with History – End Bethlehem

Welcome to Israel! Upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel.  Enjoy a comfortable stay as you prepare for an incredible journey through history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

After breakfast, we begin in Caesarea Maritima, an ancient Roman city where we visit the impressive theater, the Crusader fortress walls, and the Roman aqueduct. Next, in Haifa, we ascend Mount Carmel for panoramic views of the city and admire the stunning Bahá’í Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We then continue to Acre (Akko), a historic port city and former Crusader stronghold, where we explore medieval fortresses. Our day concludes in Nazareth, where we enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation.

The day begins with a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee, followed by a visit to Magdala, an archaeological site with a well-preserved ancient synagogue and visit to the modern church. We then stop at the scenic Mount of Beatitudes, offering stunning views of the lake. Continuing to Tabgha, we explore mosaics that depict historical events, before heading to Capernaum, home to The House of Peter and fascinating ruins, including an ancient synagogue and a historical residential area. Return to Nazareth for dinner and overnight accommodation.

(Note: The boat trip may take place the following day, depending on conditions.)

After breakfast, we explore Nazareth, where we visit key historical and cultural sites, including
the Church of the Annunciation, the Carpentry of St. Joseph and the Fountain of the Virgin. We
will continue towards the Mount of Precipice, from where we will be able to admire a beautiful
panoramic view of Nazareth and its surroundings. We then stop at Cana, known for its
association with ancient celebrations. Traveling through the Jordan River Valley, we pass the
lush oasis of Jericho, the world's oldest city, and enjoy views of the Mount of Temptation, the
Dead Sea and the Judean Desert. Our day ends as we pass through Jerusalem on our way to
Bethlehem. Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem.

We begin in Ein Karem, a charming hillside village known for its historic stone architecture and art galleries and where the Church of St. John the Baptist is located. In Bethlehem, we visit the famous Church of the Nativity, where the Grotto of the Manger and the 14-pointed Star are located, marking the place of Jesus' birth. We will also see the Basilica of St. Catherine and the Grotto of St. Jerome, where he translated the Bible into Latin. . Later, we explore Shepherds' Field, an open area with archaeological remains that provide insight into ancient pastoral life. Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem.

Today, we venture into the Judean Desert to visit Masada, a UNESCO-listed fortress that played a pivotal role in ancient history as the last bastion of the Jews in their fight against the Romans. . A cable car ride takes us to the top, where we explore the remains of palaces and defensive structures. Later, we relax at the Dead Sea, floating effortlessly in its mineral-rich waters—an experience like no other! Return to Bethlehem for dinner and accommodation.

Our day begins in the Old City of Jerusalem, where we explore the winding alleyways and lively markets. We stop at the Western Wall, a place of cultural and historical significance, before visiting the Esplanade of the Mosques, the third most sacred site for Islam and home to the impressive Dome of the Rock. Next, we will walk along the Via Dolorosa, the path that Jesus walked carrying the cross, until we reach Golgotha, the site of his crucifixion, and the church of Holy Sepulchre, where he was buried and. We visit Mount Zion, with the Tomb of King David, the Cenacle (site of the Last Supper and Pentecost) and the Dormition Abbey, where the Assumption of Mary is remembered. We then proceed to the Mount of Olives, where we take in a breath-taking panoramic view of the city before visiting the Garden of Gethsemane, known for its centuries-old olive trees, and the Basilica of the Agony, the site of Jesus' prayer before his arrest. Return to Bethlehem for dinner and accommodation.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure. We hope this unforgettable journey through history, culture, and nature leaves you with lasting memories!