Israel and Jordan

14 Days

Israel and Jordan

Gain special insights into its diversity from knowledgeable local guides and experts in their fields as our multidimensional Jordan and Israel tours take you from bustling modern-day Tel Aviv to ancient sites such as 4,000-year-old Jaffa, King Herod’s port city of Caesarea, mountaintop Masada and Jerusalem’s Old City. Expand your understanding of the religions that have so much to do with Israel and Jordan, past and present, during a Tauck Exclusive private panel discussion. Sail on the Sea of Galilee, relax at a resort along the Dead Sea, travel on Jordan’s King’s Highway to the fabled pink city of Petra, and dine Bedouin-style at a traditional feast. Privately guided tours and special cultural experiences for Tauck guests only bring it all to life, and superb hotels put you in the best locations throughout this extraordinary trip.

Only With Tauck

A cruise on the Sea of Galilee aboard a working replica of a 2,000-year-old fishing boat

Tour prices are per person in U.S. dollars. All hotel accommodations, entertainment, special dinners, land transportation, sightseeing, porterage, and the services of local guides, drivers and the Tauck Director are included. The departure taxes levied by Israel and Jordan and the Jordan visa fee are included. Transportation is included from Ben Gurion International Airport, located midway between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, to InterContinental David Tel Aviv, provided we have received accurate international flight arrival information at least three weeks prior to the tour departure date. Transportation is also included from Amman Rotana to Queen Alia International Airport in Amman when you check out of the hotel. Transfers to and from airports may be shared with other Tauck guests.

Rates and schedules are not guaranteed until booked and will vary based on departure date.

Tour begins: 6:00 PM, InterContinental David Tel Aviv. A transfer is included from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport to the InterContinental David Tel Aviv, set on a beachfront promenade, with sweeping views of the Mediterranean, in the city’s most fashionable neighborhood. Please join us this evening for our welcome cocktail reception and dinner where you’ll meet your fellow travelers and Tauck Director.

Meals – Dinner

Lodging – InterContinental David Tel Aviv

On your first full day in Israel travel excursions around Tel Aviv reveal some of the striking contrasts that define the country. Our guide will give you a little Hebrew lesson with handy words to know during our welcome briefing before you set off for a walking tour through the maze of narrow, cobblestone streets of 4,000-year-old Jaffa, believed to be the oldest port city in the world. Explore the Visitors’ Center in Kedumim Square and its museum with exhibits on the history of Jaffa and archaeological treasures. Have lunch at a local café, then travel from the romantic eccentricity of Jaffa to the Bauhaus architecture of Rothschild Boulevard… a true leap of time! Many Jewish refugees from Germany in the 1930s brought functional, modern design with them, and the plethora of square white buildings with curved balconies on every street earned Tel Aviv the nickname “The White City” and a UNESCO World Heritage designation as you’ll learn on a city tour. But there the austerity of Tel Aviv ends; for the remainder of the day, spend time exploring this hip, young, city on your own. Your hotel is within easy walking distance of the beach, restaurants and a nightlife that is second to none.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch

Lodging – InterContinental David Tel Aviv

Over a period of just 12 years, Herod transformed Caesarea into a grand city and major seaport – and dedicated it to Roman Emperor Caesar Augustus, who had returned it to Herod after wresting it away from Cleopatra. During a walking tour, view the spectacular Roman amphitheatre, still used as a performing venue today; what was once the great harbor Herod built; the hippodrome that held 20,000 spectators for chariot races; and what remains of Herod’s palace. After lunch, continue on to Haifa, international headquarters of the Baha’i Faith, and the Baha’i Shrine and Gardens on famed Mount Carmel. A succession of 19 manicured garden terraces lead to the Shrine of the Bab, entombing the remains of the Bab, Baha’i Allah, the herald of the Baha’i Faith. Your hotel, the Dan Carmel Haifa Hotel, sits atop Mount Carmel with great city views. Dine this evening at the hotel, after which you may want to explore a bit or just enjoy the intimacy of the hotel, closeness of the sea, and amazing vision of the Baha’i terraces rising above the city, illuminated at night.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A day excursion from Haifa – from the Mediterranean coast of northern Israel travel inland to the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus gathered his first disciples among the fishermen. At Yigal Alon Museum, you’ll discover an archaeological treasure that rocked the worlds of archaeology, history and religion when it was found in 1986 – the Galilee Boat, a 2,000-year-old fishing vessel discovered in the mudflats of Galilee. Exhaustive scientific research places the fishing boat in the time and place of Jesus along the Sea of Galilee. Board a working replica of the boat and sail the waters of Galilee on a guided tour to see how fishermen in Jesus’ time lived and worked. Learn about this rural area’s many kibbutzim – farming communities which teach self-reliance, collective action and civic responsibility, and have lunch at a local restaurant in Nazareth. Return to Haifa, where you can participate in a “Prophet Sharing” panel discussion, a unique opportunity to ask questions and share information about the major religions that co-exist in this multicultural land. The evening is free in Haifa to enjoy as you please.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch

Today in Israel travel to one of the oldest continuously inhabited cites in the world, Akko, dating back to the era of the Egyptian Pharaoh Thutmose. Begin your visit to this richly historical city with a visit to the Jezzar Pasha Mosque, an excellent example of Ottoman architecture, named for Ahmed al-Jezzar Pasha, who defeated Napoleon at the 1799 French siege of Acre. A walking tour through the walled city takes in the Knight’s Hall, the citadel and prison, as well as the ancient tunnels. Traces of the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Muslims, Crusaders, Ottomans, Bedouins and the British, who have all ruled here, as well as of the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, can be seen. Next up is a Tauck Exclusive – lunch at one of the city’s best-known, most sought-after restaurants, Uri Buri, run by famed Chef Uri Yirmias; casual with understated elegance, his seafood is famous all over Israel. Continue on to Jerusalem, with a stop at the Mount of Olives. Your hotel, the Waldorf Astoria Jersusalem, is one of the newest and most luxurious in the city.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch

Lodging – Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem

For three of the world’s great religions, Judaism, Islam and Christianity, Jerusalem is indeed a city of great significance. A walking tour led by an expert local guide and your Tauck Director begins in the Jewish Quarter of the city and the Cardo, today a bustling marketplace with intriguing goods for sale built atop a site dating back, in part, to the time of Emperor Justinian in the 6th century BC. Visit the iconic Western Wall, the last remnant of Solomon’s temple, which held the Ark of the Covenant. The wide plaza before the wall is an open-air synagogue where Jews gather daily to pray; it has been among Judaism’s most holy prayer sites for over 2,000 years – people of many religions leave prayer notes in the cracks and crevices of the wall. Descend into the ornate, ingeniously engineered Sephardic Synagogues, built below street level during Ottoman rule in obeyance of a law that no Jewish temple could be higher than the surrounding houses. Your visit reveals a restored complex of four synagogues, Yochanan ben Zakai, Istanbuli, Eliahu Ha’navi and Emtsai, each built in a different time period to accommodate the needs of the Sephardic community of the day. Following lunch at a local café, visit Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial Museum, where a guide accompanies you through the images, survivors’ accounts, and artifacts that put human faces on the Holocaust; it will be one of the most deeply moving experiences of your trip. The evening is at your leisure in Jerusalem.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lodging – Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem

This morning, return to the Old City for a visit to Temple Mount where the revered 7th-century Islamic shrine, the Dome of the Rock, is built atop Temple Mount – its golden dome shelters the rock from which the Prophet Mohammed ascended to Heaven. For Jews, it covers the holiest spot on Earth, the Foundation Stone of Solomon’s inner temple. For many Christian pilgrims, a walk on the Via Dolorosa, along which Jesus carried the cross to the site of the crucifixion after Pilate’s condemnation, is a most meaningful experience. Explore the winding path before continuing on to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which encloses the place where Jesus was crucified and buried. Following lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon is free. Join us tonight for a cooking demonstration at Eucalyptus, one of Jerusalem’s most unique dining experiences – prior to a magical evening at the Tower of David. Enjoy a reception, and then, as the sun sets, watch the story of Jerusalem unfold in breathtaking images projected on the walls, archaeological ruins and hidden pathways of the Citadel, completely surrounding you in a multi-sensory experience.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lodging – Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem

Following breakfast, you have a choice of spending additional time in Jerusalem or joining us for a guided sightseeing excursion. Go through the security barriers to the West Bank for a visit to Bethlehem. Take a walking tour of the Church of the Nativity, built over what is traditionally thought to be the birthplace of Jesus, one of the oldest continuously operating churches in the world. Beneath the elaborate church lies the Grotto of the Nativity; a silver star in the floor marks the very spot where Jesus was believed to have been born, with the Chapel of the Manger just steps away. Visit the Milk Grotto, where the Holy Family took refuge before their flight into Egypt, then return to Jerusalem. On your return to Jerusalem, view the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Israel Museum, where they are exhibited. Spend the evening as you wish in Jerusalem.

Meals – Breakfast

Lodging – Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem

Depart Jerusalem for the cliff-top fortress at Masada, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by King Herod between 37 and 31 BC and the mighty stronghold of the Jewish Zealots who fled Jerusalem rather than submit to Roman rule during the First Jewish-Roman War in the 1st century AD. Take a cable car to the top of the mountain with a knowledgeable guide to explore the site, learn the story of what happened here over 2,000 years ago and discover why Masada has such tremendous significance today. Drive to Jordan and your luxury resort and spa on the Dead Sea, where you’ll enjoy a premium Pool View room during your two-night stay.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lodging – Movenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea

Today is a day of personal choice. You may be ready to just kick back and relax today, enjoying your Pool View room and the amenities of your spa resort on the Dead Sea. The Dead Sea is the “Great Salt Lake” of the Middle East, and true to its name, devoid of life except for the many visitors who come to marvel at its mineral-rich, therapeutic qualities. Or, join your Tauck Director for a visit to the ancient city of Gerasa, today called Jerash. Step back in time 2,000 years as you explore the exceptionally well-preserved remains of Roman architecture in the Middle East, including Hadrian’s Arch, the Hippodrome, the Oval Plaza, temples, theatres, arches, walls, baths and more in this fascinating archaeological site. After lunch, return to your resort to spend the rest of the afternoon and evening as you wish.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lodging – Movenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea

Today, your adventure takes you from the Dead Sea to Petra along the King’s Highway, the oldest continuously used trading route in the world. Traveling south through ancient biblical lands, you’ll stop first at Mount Nebo, where Moses looked out upon the “Promised Land.” On a clear day, Jericho, the Dead Sea, the River Jordan and even Jerusalem can be seen from Mt. Nebo; visit the Memorial Church of Moses to see the well-preserved ancient mosaics that are located inside the excavated Old Baptistery. Biblical history is everywhere en route, most notably in Madaba; visit St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church to view an incredible 6th-century map detailing the major biblical sites of the time. Enjoy a lunch of traditional Jordanian specialties before heading on to Petra, where dinner is at your leisure at your resort – just a short walk to the entrance of the 2,000-year- old city of Petra – where you’ll enjoy a Junior Suite.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The 2,000-year-old city of Petra, which the ancient Nabataeans carved out of colorful sandstone cliffs, was named one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World” – it is quite truly amazing. Almost forgotten for over a thousand years, Petra is one of the best-preserved biblical sites in the world. You’ll travel through the narrow, high-walled canyon called the Siq… and suddenly, there it is, the huge, world-famous Treasury – your first sight is one of those life-transformational moments. Explore this incredible site on foot where you’ll view Petra’s tomb facades, royal tombs, temples and other structures on foot. Have lunch at the Basin Restaurant in the Old City, and return by camel. The afternoon is spent as you please – then get set for tonight’s special farewell dinner! Join us this evening for a real taste of Jordan when you dine Bedouin-style at a traditional feast. A dance troupe of Jordanian men, dressed in customary Bedouin garments, entertains with a performance of the Dabkeh sword dance for a look at centuries-old traditions.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drive along the winding 5,000-year-old King’s Highway, through golden canyons and ancient villages, to Amman; this is one of the oldest continuously used roads in the world. Tauck’s Jordan and Israel travel experience ends in Amman. Guests with early evening flights will be taken directly to Queen Alia International Airport while those departing late night or early the next morning will stay at Amman Rotana.

Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tour ends: Amman. A transfer is included from Amman Rotana to Queen Alia International Airport. You should allow a

minimum of three hours for flight check-in.

Meals – Breakfast

What's Included

  • Guided visits to diverse sites such as the Western Wall, Dome of the Rock, Sephardic Synagogues, Via Dolorosa, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Mt. Nebo, and Jezzar Pasha Mosque
  • Premium accommodations – including Pool View rooms at Movenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea, and Junior Suites at Movenpick Resort Petra
  • Walking tours exploring Israel’s and Jordan’s antiquities, guided by local experts & professional Tauck Directors; modern-day discussions including a “Prophet Sharing” panel discussion
  • A special farewell dinner in Petra – a Bedouin-style traditional feast featuring a sword dance
  • A private wine and hors d’oeuvres reception prior to the amazing sound and light show across the walls of the Tower of David
  • Guided visit to Bethlehem for a tour of the Church of the Nativity and the Milk Grotto
  • A chance to “float” in the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea and immerse in its therapeutic, mineral-rich black mud Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as noted
  • 32 meals; gratuities to local guides, service charges, admission fees, taxes and porterage

Nights 1-2 Tel Aviv, Israel

InterContinental David Tel Aviv

Set in one of the city’s most fashionable neighborhoods, the InterContinental David Tel Aviv blends the pleasures of a beachfront promenade with the charm of winding streets reminiscent of SoHo, all within walking distance of lots to see and do. Comfortably furnished guest rooms welcome you with color TV with cable and satellite stations, a CD player, coffee maker, minibar, double-glazed windows that open, bathrobes, hair dryer and in-room safe. After a busy day, relax on the sun deck beside the outdoor swimming pool, take advantage of the Health & Fitness Center (additional cost) or avail yourself of the services available at Riki’s Spa. Sample Kosher cuisine at the Jaffa Court, enjoy timeless French and Italian recipes at the Aubergine Restaurant or stop by at the Atrium Lounge for a lite bite and the libation of your choice from the well-stocked bar.

Nights 3-4 Haifa, Israel

Dan Carmel Haifa Hotel

An unmatched location on the crest of Mount Carmel, combined with extensive gardens, elegant interiors and attentive service, provides guests with a memorable stay in Haifa. Spacious accommodations offer views of the Carmel hills or the sea from the large balcony, air conditioning, LCD TV with cable networks news, a minibar and exclusive toiletries among other welcome amenities. A swimming pool and a fitness room are available to guests on a complimentary basis, as are spa services at an additional charge. The Palachi Pub and Restaurant features a specialty drink, the Planter’s Dream, a lovely concoction to begin or end an evening in addition to a wide variety of traditional cocktails mixed to perfection, and a selection of meat dishes from the Chef’s Menu. You’ll find The Lobby Lounge Piano Bar is the place to head for rich Israeli coffee and oven-fresh pastries, while the dairy restaurant serves inventive pasta dishes and “catch-of-the-day” fish.

Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms! Nights5-8
Jerusalem, Israel

Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem

Enjoy contemporary style in the heart of the ancient city at Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem, where you’ll experience outstanding service, luxurious rooms, courtyard refreshments and fine dining, all just steps from the charming Old City. Designed in a quietly elegant, late 1920s style, the hotel stands 10-floors high at the intersection of King David, Agron and Mammilla Streets, mere minutes from the Jaffa Gate. Discover Jerusalem’s famed historical sites while enjoying the hotel’s enviable service. Take in the stunning open-space atrium; climb the grand staircase and escape to a luxury guest room, providing a tranquil ambiance with soothing colors, custom furnishings and crystal chandeliers. Each guest room features Waldorf Astoria signature beds with a customized Serta mattress and luxury linen; a spacious bathroom with heated Italian marble floors, mirror embedded TV, soaking bathtub, a sit-down shower stall, exclusive bath amenities and plush cotton robes; and a private wet bar and espresso coffee machine. Control all room functionalities with a single touch on your personal tablet, including adjustable air-conditioning, dimmable lighting system and a 46-inch TV. The hotel also boasts a classic courtyard; two fine dining establishments; a personal tablet received upon check-in for checking emails and calling room service; a fitness center, and a spa. The Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem is a Conde Nast 2015 Best Hotel in the Middle East and a 2015 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award recipient.

Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!

Nights 9 – 10 Dead Sea, Jordan

Movenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea

Built in the style of a traditional village, the Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea is set on the northern shores of the Dead Sea at the lowest point on Earth. Guest rooms, each with its own balcony or terrace, provide individually controlled air conditioning, minibar, satellite TV, coffee/tea maker and hair dryer. Swim in the Dead Sea, the beach lounge infinity pool or the heated winter pool, soak in the Jacuzzi, play tennis or beach volley ball or take advantage of the large fitness room. The ZARA Spa, one of the most advanced spa facilities in the Middle East, offers a wide array of pampering spa experiences. Dine on Asian cuisine at Chopsticks, Italian fare at Luigi’s, enjoy a Mediterranean country-kitchen ambiance at Al Saraya, or choose The Grill for meats, poultry or fish grilled to perfection. Taste a traditional shisha (water pipe) at the Valley Café and Bar, as well as premium Mövenpick ice cream, coffee and tea. End the evening with a nightcap on the terrace at the Al Khayyam Bar and Al Hana Lounge overlooking the river valley and the Dead Sea.

Nights 11 – 12 Petra, Jordan

Movenpick Resort Petra

One of the most notable hotels in the Middle East, the Mövenpick Resort Petra is located directly at the entrance to the historic pink city of Petra. Air-conditioned guest rooms welcome with a coffee/tea maker, minibar, hair dryer and an in-room safe. You’ll find a number of books about Petra and Jordan in the library and you can take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool, relax in the steam bath or work out in the fully equipped gym. Al Ghadeer Roof Garden is the place to take in the stunning sunset while enjoying a snack, a drink or even an arglieh (water pipe) during the summer months. With seven different dining and entertainment venues to choose from, you’ll find the perfect spot to relax after an exciting day exploring Petra.

Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!

Night 13 Amman, Jordan

Amman Rotana

Located in the central business, social and residential destination, Amman’s new downtown, Al Abdali, Amman Rotana offers travelers the serenity and warmth of home as well as the splendor and modern extravagance that can only be offered at Rotana. Rotana is the first tower hotel in Jordan offering 412 lavish rooms and suites, housed across 50 floors at 188 metres high. All rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows offering remarkable views of the city. The 5-star hotel is designed in a vibrant modern style providing a combination of deluxe accommodation, diverse culinary experiences, and premier amenities including Fitness & Wellness Club, a fully equipped gym and a temperature controlled pool with the magnificent views of Amman. Boasting six different restaurants and bars, the hotel’s signature restaurants include Rodeo Grill, featuring steaks, and an Italian eatery, Gusto.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Israel and Jordan