City Break Israel

City Break Israel: A whirlwind tour of history and culture

Craving a city break unlike any other, look no further than City Break Israel. This vibrant nation packs a powerful punch, offering a captivating blend of ancient history, buzzing metropolises, and stunning natural beauty – all within a short distance. Here’s a glimpse of city break adventures, taking you through some of Israel’s most captivating places.

Tel Aviv, Dead Sea and Jerusalem City Break Israel

Tel Aviv – The Big Orange

The Tel Aviv sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink. You take a deep breath of the salty Mediterranean air and feel the city’s energy buzzing around you. With a night in this nonstop metropolis, you decide to pack in the best of both worlds: culture and vibrant nightlife.

Evening: Beach Bliss and Delicious Bites

You could start your adventure in Jaffa, Tel Aviv’s ancient port city. Wander through narrow alleys lined with art galleries and artisan shops, their colorful displays a feast for the eyes. Next, you delve into Jaffa’s rich history at the Old Jaffa Port. Imagine pirates and merchant ships once filling this harbor as you explore the weathered stone walls and charming cafes. Head to the famed Tel Aviv beachfront to grab a refreshing drink from a beachside kiosk and soak in the atmosphere – laughter, music, and the gentle sound of waves crashing on the shore.

Night: Into the Buzzing Nightlife

Next, head towards the heart of Tel Aviv’s nightlife scene – Rothschild Boulevard. The energy is electric as you walk past trendy bars overflowing with patrons spilling onto the sidewalk. Live music spills out from open doors, tempting you in. Choose a bar with a rooftop terrace, offering panoramic views of the glittering city lights. As the night deepens, the music intensifies, and the crowd sways to the rhythm, sip on a refreshing Israeli cocktail and soak in the infectious energy, feeling the pulse of this vibrant city.

Masada & the Dead Sea

Set off from Tel Aviv to Israel’s foremost archaeological park – Masada. Ascend via cable-car for a thorough visit that gives insight to the rituals, politics and culture of the people who inhabited this desert fortress, which was the last stronghold of the Jewish zealots in their war against the Romans. Visit the excavations, Herod’s palaces, the synagogue, bathhouse and cisterns, and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Roman camps and the Dead Sea., before descending to its shore to experience the mineral-rich black mud and to float on its salty waters.
Pass by the oasis of Ein Gedi, and ascend to Jerusalem.

Jerusalem: A City Break Steeped in History and Holiness

Jerusalem, a city that resonates with the echoes of history and the whispers of faith, is unlike any other. A whirlwind of cultures, religions, and architectural wonders, it offers a city break unlike any other, with a visit to Masada & the Dead Sea, starting in the metropolis of Tel Aviv.

Begin your journey in the heart of Jerusalem: the Old City. Enclosed by ancient, towering walls, it’s a labyrinth of narrow alleys, bustling markets, and holy sites. Start your exploration at the Jaffa Gate, a majestic entry point steeped in history.

Immerse yourself in the Jewish Quarter, where the Western Wall, a remnant of the Second Temple, stands as a powerful symbol of faith. Witness the fervent prayers and observe the rituals that have endured for millennia.

Next, step into the Christian Quarter, where the Via Dolorosa, believed to be the path Jesus walked to his crucifixion, is a poignant reminder of Jerusalem’s Christian significance. Here, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a revered pilgrimage site for Christians, awaits.

No visit to the Old City is complete without wandering through the vibrant labyrinth of the Muslim Quarter. The aroma of spices mingles with the calls of vendors in the bustling souq (marketplace). Here, you can find traditional handicrafts, jewelry, and textiles, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.

Unveiling New Jerusalem and Culinary Delights

Delve into the modern metropolis that complements the ancient city. Visit the Israel Museum, a treasure trove of archaeological finds, ancient artifacts, and captivating exhibits on Jewish history and culture. Admire the renowned Dead Sea Scrolls, a glimpse into the earliest written records of Judaism.

Head to the vibrant Mahane Yehuda Market, a feast for the senses. This iconic market is a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells. Sample fresh local produce, indulge in sweet pastries, or savor authentic Israeli street food like falafel and shawarma.

For a taste of contemporary Israeli art, explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Nahalat Shiva and Mamilla. Here, trendy cafes and art galleries line the streets, showcasing the city’s creative spirit. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a rooftop restaurant in one of these neighborhoods, taking in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city bathed in the warm glow of twilight.

A Journey Through Time: Bethlehem and the Mount of Olives

Venture beyond the city limits for a visit to Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus. Here, the Church of the Nativity, a revered Christian pilgrimage site built over the grotto where Jesus is believed to have been born, stands as a testament to the city’s significance.

Back in Jerusalem, ascend the Mount of Olives, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Visit the Garden of Gethsemane, believed to be the place where Jesus prayed before his crucifixion. Explore the Church of the Ascension, which marks the place where Jesus is believed to have ascended to heaven.

At Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, explore the poignant exhibits and memorials that pay tribute to the victims of the Holocaust and educate visitors about this dark chapter in human history.

Galilee Country Break

For those of you already in Israel, you can also take a break in the pastoral Galilee countryside. Beginning in Tel Aviv – 3 days of touring visit Jaffa, Caesarea, Megiddo, Tiberias and the area of Jesus’ ministry and sites related to the miracles he performed around the Sea of Galilee – Capernaum, Tabgha, the Mount of Beatitudes. An ascent to the Golan Heights for views over Lebanon & Syria, as well as visits to Beit Alpha, Nazareth and Cana, before ending your tour in Jerusalem

City Break Israel: FAQ

For a choice of city or country breaks in Israel

Jerusalem & Dead Sea City Break – click here

Galilee Country Break – click here