Experience the vibrant cities of West Jerusalem and Tel Aviv on a 2-day private tour. Discover the rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and complex Israeli culture while exploring iconic landmarks and meeting locals. Dress modestly to respect local customs.
West Jerusalem
Musrara - To start the tour off, you will take a walk along the Musrara neighborhood which was an Arab community until 1948. Today, it is made up of both Ultra-Orthodox and Middle Eastern Jews, as well as an increasing population of artists and bohemians.
Me’a She’arim - The nearby Ultra-Orthodox neighborhood of Mea She’arim is a large closed community of devout Jews who dress differently than most Israelis, and refrain from normal contact with the largely secular Israeli society and the outside world in general. You’ll have an opportunity to briefly see how they live and learn about their culture.
Jaffa Street (Jaffa Road) - Walking along Jaffa Road and the neighboring Street of the Prophets, the tour takes you on a journey to see the first monuments, businesses and historical events that made modern Jerusalem what it is today. You’ll see some of the beautiful and historic sites like the Ethiopian Church and the Ticho house, hidden within today’s bustling downtown which paints a picture of a city that went in two generations from medieval to cosmopolitan to one separated by new and violent national lines.
Mahane Yehuda Market - Lunch will be in the lively Mahane Yehuda market where Israelis from all walks of life can be seen shopping. It is the biggest outdoor market in West Jerusalem.
Mount Herzl National Cemetery - After lunch, you’ll take a trip on the tram to Mount Herzl. The plaza around Herzl’s tomb is where the annual ceremonies are held, which begin in somber remembrance and are followed by parades and fireworks for independence day. Around the plaza is an ever-expanding military cemetery and the tombs of Israel’s political leaders.
Yad Vashem - The World Holocaust Remembrance Center - Next, we will go down the hill to the other side of the memorial – the Yad Vashem holocaust museum. Here, we will tour the intriguing historical museum and see the well-known Children’s Memorial and explore the connection between the tragic history of European Jewry, the founding of the state of Israel and the violence and displacement of the 1948 war while analyzing and discussing the ways Israel chooses to tell its history, and the things it chooses to leave unsaid.
After the tour, you will transfer to your homestay in Jerusalem where you will enjoy dinner with an Israeli family.
Jaffa - Tel Aviv
Neve Tzedek - The next leg of the journey is through the Jaffa Market and then on to the Neve Tzedek neighborhood which came to be in 1887 by a group of Jaffa Jews looking to upgrade the quality of their lives from the impoverished Old City. Even though Neve Tzedek has remained part of Jaffa for decades, the pattern of new Jewish neighborhoods and increasing inter-communal tensions made way for the establishment of Tel Aviv.
Rothschild Boulevard - Rothschild Boulevard is the next stop on the tour. The street became a known image of the Zionists efforts to make Tel Aviv into a European-style city with beautiful Bauhaus buildings. The boulevard was also the site of the modest beginnings of the 2011 social protest movement which eventually brought tens of thousands of Israelis to the streets.
Tel Aviv - From downtown Tel Aviv, you will walk towards the area near the new bus station, reaching the Neve Sha’anan neighborhood. As you get closer to this area, you will notice the changes of the street demographics. The diverse community has several ethnic shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Levinski Street - The tour will end at a unique open-air library in Levinski Park, which was created for the benefit of the residents, where you will be picked up to return to your homestay for dinner with a family in Jerusalem.
In the morning, your host family will see you out, as you continue on your journey to your next destination.
- Personal English-speaking guide
- Comfortable in-vehicle air conditioning
- Convenient hotel pick up from Jerusalem
- One night stay in double or triple occupancy accommodation
- Enjoy a delightful breakfast
- Savor a splendid dinner
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Alcoholic drinks with meals
- Single room except as specified
- Any personal expenses
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- 3/4 * Hotel Upgrade, if needed
This excursion is tailored to offer participants a window into the day-to-day experiences of individuals in West Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, as well as an educational opportunity to explore the historical background of these urban centers in the contemporary era. Enthusiasts will also delve into the intricate elements of Israeli culture by touring various districts that represent the diverse spectrum of Israeli Jewish communities, ranging from the Ultra-Orthodox to the non-religious.
The schedule at each site is estimated, providing guests with the option to adjust their time spent according to personal preference.
- To maintain respect for the customs of West Jerusalem’s inhabitants, it is advised to adhere to conservative attire for both genders, including garments that cover the body from the neck, to the elbows, and down to the knees. For women, it is recommended to wear skirts that extend past the knees, although slacks are also deemed appropriate. We are grateful for your understanding and cooperation.
- Travel Document: A current valid passport is required on the day of travel.
If you cancel at least 7 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 3 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
