Extraordinary Israel
From mesmerising history, to spellbinding beauty, sophisticated culture, desert thrills and warm hospitality, Israel will not disappoint. With iconic landmarks and attractions significant to Jewish, Christian, and Islamic faiths, this tour will showcase the historic and cultural highlights of the Holy Land.
Journey highlights
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Explore the old and the new in bewitching Tel Aviv. With the ancient port of Jaffa, UNESCO-listed Bauhaus architecture, buzzing street art, world-class museums, fabulous dining, and charming beachside promenade, the city’s charms are many and varied.
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Discover the biblical sites of the Holy City on a guided walk around Jerusalem, from the Wailing Wall to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, walk the maze of narrow streets bustling with street vendors and soak up the history of this ancient city.
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Savour the chance to experience the culinary heaven of Jerusalem’s food market, Machane Yehuda. Sample delicious hummus, tahini and havla, meet the producers and learn more about Israel’s fabulous natural produce.
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Visit the UNESCO-listed Masada Fortress built by King Herod, whose mountain top location gives some of the best views in the country, before cooling off with a therapeutic and memorable float in the saline waters of the Dead Sea.
- Extraordinary itinerary:Our Extraordinary Journeys offer unforgettable cutting-edge hotels, experiences and restaurants with a focus on design, fashion and innovation
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
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The best time to visit climate-wise is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the daytime temperatures aren't too extreme. Winter can be cold and rainy in some areas.
Itinerary
Fly to Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv, Israel
On arrival in Tel Aviv, you will be transferred to The Norman, your base for the following three nights. Architecturally significant, The Norman blends 1920s Bauhaus design with contemporary elegance and style. With warm hospitality, plush interiors, sophisticated dining and an ever-changing curated collection of modern art, this boutique hotel is a wonderful haven from which to explore this vibrant Mediterranean city.
During your stay, you will enjoy both leisure time and a private guided tour, enabling you to discover the best of modern Tel Aviv, as well as the historic port city of Jaffa. Originally founded in Neve Tzedek on the outskirts of Jaffa in 1887, the modern city and ancient port have since merged into one, creating a spectacular contrast of old and new. The tour includes a chance to explore the evolving culture and history of the city through its street art and graffiti.
Highlights of modern Tel Aviv include the UNESCO-listed Bauhaus architecture, the culinary delights of Carmel Market, the fabulous Mediterranean beaches and the delightful promenade lined with chic cafés, restaurants, and boutiques. While in Jaffa, you can explore the remains of the ancient port, wander the narrow centuries-old cobblestone streets, and explore the exquisite Artists’ Quarter, where Ottoman-era buildings are now home to artists, artisans and shops.
For those interested in Israeli and Jewish history, Tel Aviv has some excellent museums and landmarks. Visit Independence Hall, to see where David Ben-Guiron signed the Declaration of Independence in 1948, creating the modern state of Israel, while a visit to Beit Hatfutsot: The Museum of the Jewish People, will put this into context. The museum documents the 2,500-year history of the Jewish Diaspora and is a must for anyone interested Jewish history. Also worth a visit is the Palmach Museum, which documents the lives of 10 members of the Palmach unit from 1941 to 1948. This unit was created in 1941 to support the Allies during the Second World War, before forming the basis of the Israeli Army during the 1948 War of Independence.
Accommodation: The Norman Tel Aviv ( 3 nights )
Jerusalem, Israel
This morning you will make the journey north to the Holy City, Jerusalem, where you will settle into the Mamilla Hotel. This luxurious sanctuary reflects the city itself, being a sophisticated blend of ancient history and stylish modern design. Ottoman stone walls house chic contemporary interiors in this fabulous hotel in Jerusalem’s vibrant Mamilla neighbourhood. With al fresco dining at the rooftop lounge, panoramic views of the Old City Walls and an award-winning spa, the Mamilla is the perfect base for exploring the timeless beauty and fascinating history of this ancient city.
During your time in Jerusalem, you will enjoy a private guided walking tour of the Old City, which is a mesmerising tangle of centuries-old narrow alleyways, cobbled streets, street vendors and hole-in-the-wall eateries. The walk will include Zion Gate, the Jewish Quarter where you will see the famous Wailing Wall and the Dome of the Rock, as well as the Via Dolorosa. Also known as the Way of the Cross, the pathway follows the 14 stations of the Cross on the day of the crucifixion, ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the site where Jesus is believed to have been crucified, buried, and resurrected.
With so much history, the city has a multitude of highlights and other sites of note include the Citadel built by King David, known as the Tower of David and Mount Zion, just outside the walls of the Old City, close to Zion Gate. Here you will find the Tomb of David, the Room of the Last Supper, and the Church of the Dormition.
Along with these ancient landmarks, we would recommend a self-guided visit to Yad Vashem, Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Jewish Holocaust. The site includes the Hall of Remembrance, the Children’s Memorial, the Museum of Holocaust Art, and outdoor commemorative sites, including the Valley of the Communities. You may also wish to visit the Israel Museum to see the Dead Sea Scrolls and Ammunition Hill Memorial and Museum, dedicated to those who lost their lives fighting in the 1967 Six-Day War.
Israel has an emerging and exciting food scene. From traditional street food to fine dining, the cuisine is both flavoursome and creative, and the country is fast becoming a culinary hotspot. During your time in Jerusalem, you will enjoy a private food tour of the celebrated Machane Yehuda Market. One of the city’s prime attractions, it boasts boutique stalls and international chef restaurants. You’ll learn about the history of the market, meet the stallholders, and sample the fabulous produce from flavoured tahini to spiced halva.
Accommodation: Mamilla Hotel ( 3 nights )
Shaharut, Israel
On leaving the Holy City, accompanied by your guide, you will visit the spectacular UNESCO-listed hilltop ruins of the Masada Fortress. This legendary fortress was the last stronghold of the Zealots, fighting against the Romans during the First Revolt in AD70. Built by King Herod over 2,000 years ago, it defended the area from its location at the top of a mountain plateau. Ride the cable car up to the top of the fortress, or take a hike up Snake Pass, for panoramic views of both the desert and the Dead Sea.
Another treat awaits before heading off into the desert, as you take the opportunity for a relaxing float and swim in the mineral-rich therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on the planet. A truly memorable experience, the lake has been a health resort since the time of King Herod.
From here, you will journey onward to the serene tranquillity of the Six Senses Shahrut, for a magical desert experience. For the following three nights, this spectacular property will be your home. Located in the southern Negev Desert, on a hillside enjoying magnificent views of the Arava Valley, the Six Senses Shahrut offers luxury accommodation, a relaxing spa and exquisite dining, all served up with fabulous hospitality.
Your stay can be as leisurely or action-packed as you wish. From stargazing and bird watching, to camel rides across the dunes and jeep safaris to the 220-million-year-old Ramon Crater, you set the tempo of your days.
When it is time to depart, you can choose to fly back to London from nearby Ramon Airport or travel home via Tel Aviv.
Accommodation: Six Senses Shaharut ( 3 nights )
Fly Home from Ramon Airport / Tel Aviv.
Call us on 020 3468 1971 to start planning your holiday.
Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and includes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 2024 | GBP £12,500 | GBP £1,900 | plan your trip |
| January 2025 | GBP £12,500 | GBP £1,900 | plan your trip |
| February 2025 | GBP £12,500 | GBP £1,900 | plan your trip |
| March 2025 | GBP £12,500 | GBP £1,900 | plan your trip |
| April 2025 | GBP £10,800 | GBP £1,600 | plan your trip |
| May 2025 | GBP £9,100 | GBP £1,400 | plan your trip |
| June 2025 | GBP £9,100 | GBP £1,400 | plan your trip |
| July 2025 | GBP £9,100 | GBP £1,400 | plan your trip |
| August 2025 | GBP £9,100 | GBP £1,400 | plan your trip |
| September 2025 | GBP £12,500 | GBP £1,900 | plan your trip |
| October 2025 | GBP £12,500 | GBP £1,900 | plan your trip |
| November 2025 | GBP £12,500 | GBP £1,900 | plan your trip |
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December 2024
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £12,500
Deposit from*GBP £1,900
-
January 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £12,500
Deposit from*GBP £1,900
-
February 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £12,500
Deposit from*GBP £1,900
-
March 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £12,500
Deposit from*GBP £1,900
-
April 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £10,800
Deposit from*GBP £1,600
-
May 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £9,100
Deposit from*GBP £1,400
-
June 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £9,100
Deposit from*GBP £1,400
-
July 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £9,100
Deposit from*GBP £1,400
-
August 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £9,100
Deposit from*GBP £1,400
-
September 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £12,500
Deposit from*GBP £1,900
-
October 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £12,500
Deposit from*GBP £1,900
-
November 2025
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £12,500
Deposit from*GBP £1,900
- plan your trip