Five Days in Israel & the Palestinian Territories

Shalom! Welcome to Jerusalem. Your adventure begins with an afternoon welcome meeting at 4.30 pm today. If you arrive early, you could grab a coffee or a cold one from one of the many bars, cafes and restaurants near your hostel. After, head out on an orientation walk with the group. You'll stop at Machane Yehuda Market, where you can sample tasty local cuisine using a Bite Card – your ticket to tasting the likes of sabich (pita stuffed with fried aubergine and boiled egg) and authentic kubbeh soup (veggie broth topped with meat-filled dumplings). Your leader will leave you here to spend the evening as you wish – maybe check out the laneway bars with your new-found friends as the market comes to life or wander the nearby streets to check out the shop-shutter graffiti that’s only visible at night.

This morning you’ll take in some of Jerusalem’s cultural wonders on a walking tour of the Old City. Follow the stations of the cross along the Via Dolorosa, which represents the route Jesus took before his crucifixion. Witness locals and pilgrims rocking in prayer at the Western Wall – Judaism’s holiest site – and get fabulous views of the golden Dome of the Rock, as well as the city's countless other spires and towers, from the rooftop terrace at the Austrian Hospice. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore. You could try a flight of boutique Israeli brews at the Beer Bazaar, hunt down the perfect hummus in the Old City (ask your leader for tips) or grab some snacks and find the perfect picnic spot at Sacher Park – saving time to wander the winding paths of the nearby Wohl Rose Garden.

Rise and shine nice and early this morning and drive out to the biggest oasis in Israel – Ein Gedi National Park. Here, you’ll embark on a hike with your group to one of the waterfalls that boast views of the Dead Sea below. You can take a quick dip at the waterfall and stay here or carry on to the second waterfall further along the trail. Relax in this desert spring and then head back down – from here, you have the option to visit the Dead Sea – the lowest point on Earth on the border of Jordan. Tonight, enjoy some free time for dinner.

This morning, check out of your hostel and head to the Mount of Olives for panoramic views of the Old City. From there, you’ll drive to Bethlehem. Visit the Church of the Nativity, built on the spot where Jesus is said to have been born, and head to the Shepherd’s Fields, where angels allegedly appeared to bring the good news. You’ll have time to explore the street art that emblazons much of the contentious West Bank Barrier – including pieces by famed British artist Banksy – and learn the personal stories and political implications behind some of the more prominent pieces. After, continue to Tel Aviv via the ancient port city of Jaffa – these unique brick streets are the perfect backdrop for photos, as they make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. This afternoon, enjoy some free time in this relaxed city. An optional sunset bike ride is a great way to get your bearings. Tonight, why not get the gang together and hit the town? Tel Aviv is known for its happening nightlife!

There aren’t any activities planned for today, so you’re free to leave the hostel at any time. That doesn’t mean your Middle Eastern adventure has to come to an end! If you’re looking at spending more time in Tel Aviv, just speak to your booking agent.