How to See Israel in Seven Days–Suggested Itinerary and extensive Israel Travel Guide
By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist
Israel Travel Guide: With its religious and historical significance, beautiful beaches, delicious local cuisine and fun nightlife, Israel has been a popular tourist destination for quite some time. It’s not only the perfect place for those seeking a meaningful spiritual journey, but for anyone who wants to enjoy Israeli culture, dynamic landscape and an unforgettable adventure. There’s so much to see and do in Israel, but it’s possible to experience a lot of the country in just seven days. Here’s the itinerary I did on my last trip. I booked all my tours and airport transfers through Erez Yarkon Travel.
Note: For this Israel travel guide you will either need to rent a car, which I’ve done before, but Israelis are crazy drivers so beware, or take tours to do everything I did on this trip. Erez Yarkon Travel can provide a driver. I’ve used their services three times now and loved every trip.
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Day 1 Tel Aviv
Israel Travel Guide: Chances are you will fly into Ben Gurion Airport, which is about 12 miles outside of Tel Aviv. Most stay in the area for the first day or so because Tel Aviv is a great city to explore with its amazing beaches, restaurants and a lively night scene. Spend at least one night here. You can also check out Jaffa (also known as Jafo), which is just outside Tel Aviv. This is where it’s believed the Biblical story Jonah and the Whale took place.
Jaffa Photo by: Heather Newgen
Must See Places in Tel Aviv:
Israel Travel Guide: Carmel Market, Yarkon Park, the beach, Yemenite Quarter,Neve Tzedek Quarter, Beit Hatefutsoth (the Diaspora Museum; also known as the Museum of the Jewish People), Tel Aviv Museum of Art and Sarona Market.
Carmel Market in Tel Aviv, Israel
Photo by: Heather Newgen
Must See Places in Jaffa:
Israel Travel Guide: Jaffa flea market (which I loved much more than the Carmel Market), Old City Jaffa (there’s incredible views of the beach and Tel Aviv), the port where you can enjoy a glass of wine at one of the many great restaurants and watch the sunset.
Port in Jaffa–Israel Photo by: Heather Newgen
Israel travel Guide: Drive from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem (which is about an hour drive). From there, I went to Bethlehem (a 15 minute drive from Jerusalem) and it’s a must for anyone visiting Israel. It’s actually Palestinian territory, therefore Israelis are not welcome to cross the checkpoint. Erez Yarkon Travel arranged for a Palestinian driver and guide to take me and made sure I was well taken care of. If you go on your own you can find Palestinian taxis near the Damascus Gate in Jerusalem, but I suggest you have a guide so you make the most of your time there. Plus a guide can give you all the historical and religious details of the area.
Must See Places in Bethlehem:
Israel Travel Guide: The Walled Off Hotel (Graffiti artist Banksy owns it and you can buy his work at the hotel). Church of the Nativity (where Jesus was born), The Chapel of the Milk Grotto (where Mary nursed Jesus), Mar Saba Monastery, Shepherd Fields and Aida Refugee Camp
Inside The Walled Off Hotel Photo by: Heather Newgen
The view from the lobby of The Walled Off Hotel Photo by: Heather Newgen
This star marks where it’s believed baby Jesus was born in the Church of the Nativity–Bethlehem
Photo by: Heather Newgen
The Milk Grotto in Bethlehem Photo by: Heather Newgen
Aida Refugee Camp in Bethlehem Photo by: Heather Newgen
Israel Travel Guide Tips: The best falafel stand is in Manager Square, which is where the Church of the Nativity is. It’s the only one, so you can’t miss it. It’s flavorful and cheap so be sure to stop by.
Falafel stand in Manger Square Photo by: Heather Newgen
Israel Travel Guide: For the most stunning view of the city go to the rooftop of the Blessings Gift Shop and Olive Wood Factory.
Israel Travel Guide: You can graffiti on the wall that separates Israel and Palestine. When you’re at The Walled Off, go next door to Wall-Mart and they will set it up for you.
