Ultimate Israel
A treasure trove of wondrous sights and experiences, Israel has much to offer the intrepid explorer. Rich in history, both ancient and modern, with world-class cuisine, spellbinding natural beauty, desert adventures and a Mediterranean coastline, this compact country has all the ingredients to create a fascinating and memorable holiday.
Journey highlights
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Explore Jerusalem’s iconic biblical sites with an informative and knowledgeable guide and visit the Qumran Caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered, the earliest manuscript of the Hebrew Bible.
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Visit the ancient sites of King Herod’s Masada Fortress, 6,000-year-old Beit She’an, and 5,000-year-old Tel Dan, as well as the historic Crusader city of Acre, and Roman city of Caesarea, to learn of Israel’s age-old past.
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Soak up the delightfully cosmopolitan charms of Tel Aviv. A fabulous blend of the old port city of Jaffa and the Bauhaus architecture and skyscrapers of the modern city, with a glorious Mediterranean coastline and chic café culture.
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Embrace the country’s natural beauty and varied landscapes, from floating in the Dead Sea, to travelling the Golan Heights by jeep and driving across the lunar landscape of the Negev Desert.
- Exceptional itinerary:A harmonious blend of authenticity and superlative luxury, our Exceptional Journeys are designed for the discerning traveller, providing unparalleled insider access and exclusive luxury private experiences
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 Jerusalem
Jerusalem, Israel
Your base for the following four nights is one of Jerusalem’s flagship hotels, The David Citadel. Centrally located, with panoramic views of the Old City Walls, the Tower of David and Jaffa Gate, this contemporary hotel offers elegant accommodation, sophisticated dining, a serene spa, and impeccable service.
After a good night’s sleep, a full day guided tour of Old Jerusalem will bring to life the history of this Holy City. Founded over 4,000 years ago, Jerusalem is a spellbinding maze of ancient alleyways, cobbled streets lined with stalls, colourful doorways, and hole-in-the-wall eateries. Rich in religious treasures, you will trace the story of Jesus beginning at the Zion Gate, which leads to the Jewish Quarter of the Old City. Here you will see the celebrated Wailing Wall and its holiest shrine, the Dome of the Rock, before walking the Via Dolorosa, the Way of the Cross. This path marks the 14 stations of the Cross on the day of the crucifixion and leads to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the site believed to be where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected.
The tour also includes a visit to Ammunition Hill Memorial and Museum, a national memorial site symbolising the liberation and reunification of Jerusalem in honour of those who died during the Six-Day War in 1967. Other highlights include the Tower of David, the citadel built by the Israelite King David and Mount Zion, home to the Tomb of David, the Room of the Last Supper, and the Church of the Dormition.
The next day is a chance to explore modern Jerusalem. This will include a visit to Yad Vashem, the country’s official memorial to Jewish victims of the Holocaust and comprises the Children's Memorial, the Hall of Remembrance, the Museum of Holocaust Art, and outdoor commemorative sites such as the Valley of the Communities.
Your guide will also take you to the Machane Yehuda Market, a culinary treat for foodies. Dating back to the Ottoman period when the city was a trading hub for Arab and Jewish merchants, the food stalls offer a sumptuous array of cuisine to sample and savour. From here, you will visit the Israel Museum, home to the Dead Sea Scrolls, the world’s oldest biblical manuscript.
The following morning you will be collected by your driver guide for a day exploring Masada, the Dead Sea, and Qumran Caves. A UNESCO-listed site, the legendary fortress city of Masada, built by King Herod over 2,000 years ago, was the last stronghold of the Zealots against the Romans during the First Revolt in AD 70. You can hike up to the top of the fortress or take the cable car, for magnificent views across the desert landscape and Dead Sea.
From here, there’s a chance to cool off and relax with a float in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, an extraordinary once-in-a-lifetime experience. The final stop of the day is to the Qumran Caves, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered, one of the 20th century’s most significant archaeological finds.
Accommodation: David Citadel Hotel ( 4 nights )
Tiberias, Israel
The following day we head north to the fertile mountainous region of Tiberias and Galilee. For the following two nights your base is the acclaimed Mitzpe Hayamim Spa Hotel. With an enviable and serene setting amid the beautiful Galilean landscape, this hilltop retreat is a haven of tranquillity with a renowned holistic spa and organic farm.
The journey will include a chance to explore the archaeological site of Beit She’an, where ancient settlements dating back over 6,000 years have been uncovered, making it one of Israel’s oldest cities. It is the site of the battle between the Israelites and Philistines, where King Saul and his three sons were hung. You will also enjoy the opportunity to tour a kibbutz and learn about the history and daily life of these collective communities.
Mitzpe Hayamim is located between the historic city of Safed (Tzfat) and the spellbinding Sea of Galilee, against a backdrop of Mount Hermon and the Golan Heights. The following day brings the chance to explore this picturesque area. Depending on fitness levels and mood, you can choose between wandering the ancient, cobbled streets of Safed (Tzfat), thought to be the birthplace of kabbalah (Jewish mysticism), bustling with cafes, art galleries and boutiques or hiking to Tel Dan. Around an hour’s hike, the 5,000-year-old remains of Tel Dan, once a biblical city, is located at the base of Mount Hermon on the Jordan River.
Today lunch is a home-hosted meal with a local Druze family, to learn about their culture and daily lives, before enjoying an exhilarating jeep ride across the glorious landscape of the Golan Heights. A wonderful way to explore this remote part of the country, you will drive along dirt tracks, passing through streams, small villages, and volcanic landforms.
Accommodation: Mitzpe Hayamim ( 2 nights )
Jaffa, Israel
The following day you begin the journey to Tel Aviv, taking in the historic cities of Acre and Caesarea, along with a visit to a winery for lunch. Your first stop is the UNESCO-listed 12th century Crusader City of Acre. Learn about the city’s history as you explore the Halls of the Knights Hospitallers, along with the craft market, mosque, and port. From here, you progress to Caesarea, stopping for lunch at an award-winning winery. Built by King Herod the Great, Caesarea became an important port during the Roman Empire and today you can explore the Roman ruins, including an amphitheatre, stone pillars, and frescoes over 2,000 years old.
The day ends in Tel Aviv where your base for the following three nights is The Jaffa Hotel, offering a sophisticated blend of 19th century grandeur and contemporary luxe, the property is in the charming, vibrant, and historic Jaffa port area.
This morning your private guide will collect you for a comprehensive tour of modern Tel Aviv and historic Jaffa. While Tel Aviv was founded at the beginning of the 20th century on the outskirts of the ancient port of Jaffa, the two areas have since merged. This has created a wonderful contrast of contemporary skyscrapers and UNESCO-listed Bauhaus architecture, alongside centuries old narrow cobblestone walkways and the historic port.
Modern highlights include fashionable Neve Tzedek, Tel Aviv’s first neighbourhood, built in 1887, lunch at Carmel Market, Independence Hall, where the Israeli Declaration of Independence was sign in 1948 by David Ben-Guiron and the city’s impressive Bauhaus architecture. While more ancient landmarks include Jaffa’s port and the Artists’ Quarter, where the Ottoman-era houses are home to local artisans, shops, and galleries.
The following day is yours to spend at your leisure. Boasting a 14km stretch of Mediterranean beach and coastline, Tel Aviv’s promenade is lined with boutique shops, stylish cafés, and interesting restaurants. You could relax on the beach, visit one of the city’s vibrant markets, browse the art galleries or watch the world go by at one of the many chic cafés.
Alternatively, for those with an interest in Jewish history, Beit Hatfutsot: The Museum of the Jewish People, chronicles the 2,500-year history of the Jewish Diaspora. Another popular attraction is the Palmach Museum. Palmach was the paramilitary unit created in 1941 to help the Allies combat the Nazis during the Second World War. The unit went on to form the basis of the Israeli Army during the 1948 War of Independence and the museum catalogues the lives of 10 of these soldiers from 1941 to 1948, as well as the historic events of those years.
Accommodation: The Jaffa, Tel Aviv ( 3 nights )
Shaharut, Israel
This morning a desert adventure awaits, as you set off for the other-worldly terrain of the Negev Desert. Along the way enjoying a thrilling jeep safari across this remote wilderness which spans over half of the country. This exciting journey through the lunar-like landscape, descends from the imposing Atzmaut Ascent viewpoint into the depths of the 220-million-year-old Ramon Crater, the largest erosion crater or makhtesh in the world.
From here, you will make the journey to your final base, the fabulous Six Senses Shahrut, for the last three nights of your trip. Overlooking the Arava Valley, this luxurious desert retreat offers spectacular views, welcoming hospitality, and a fabulous spa. During your stay, you can relax and reflect on your time in Israel. The star gazing here is phenomenal. For more active pursuits, there’s camel safaris, winery visits, jeep tours and bird watching.
On your final morning, you will be transferred back to Tel Aviv to make the journey home.
Accommodation: Six Senses Shaharut ( 3 nights )
Fly Home
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 £17,400 | GBP £2,600 | plan your trip |
| January 2025 | GBP £17,400 | GBP £2,600 | plan your trip |
| February 2025 | GBP £17,400 | GBP £2,600 | plan your trip |
| March 2025 | GBP £17,400 | GBP £2,600 | plan your trip |
| April 2025 | GBP £15,700 | GBP £2,400 | plan your trip |
| May 2025 | GBP £14,000 | GBP £2,100 | plan your trip |
| June 2025 | GBP £14,000 | GBP £2,100 | plan your trip |
| July 2025 | GBP £14,000 | GBP £2,100 | plan your trip |
| August 2025 | GBP £14,000 | GBP £2,100 | plan your trip |
| September 2025 | GBP £17,400 | GBP £2,600 | plan your trip |
| October 2025 | GBP £17,400 | GBP £2,600 | plan your trip |
| November 2025 | GBP £17,400 | GBP £2,600 | 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 £17,400
Deposit from*GBP £2,600
-
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 £17,400
Deposit from*GBP £2,600
-
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 £17,400
Deposit from*GBP £2,600
-
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 £17,400
Deposit from*GBP £2,600
-
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 £15,700
Deposit from*GBP £2,400
-
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 £14,000
Deposit from*GBP £2,100
-
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 £14,000
Deposit from*GBP £2,100
-
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 £14,000
Deposit from*GBP £2,100
-
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 £14,000
Deposit from*GBP £2,100
-
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 £17,400
Deposit from*GBP £2,600
-
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 £17,400
Deposit from*GBP £2,600
-
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 £17,400
Deposit from*GBP £2,600
- plan your trip