Sue Kaplan Israel Tour – November 2025

Activities:

• Welcome to Israel! Arrive at Ben Gurion airport - Your VIP fast track assistant will greet you at the sleeve of the plane. After assisting with arrival procedures and collecting your baggage, you will be taken to meet your driver.
  Arrival on flight #BA0406 3:25 A.M.

• Transfer to Jerusalem

• Check in to hotel (booked on own)

• Day on own to relax and adjust

• Mamilla Hotel Jerusalem (Booked on own)

Activities:

• Breakfast

• The Temple Mount - Depending upon Availability - A special visit to the holy site, The Temple Mount - also known to Muslims as al Haram el-Sharif and the Al Aqsa Compound, where you can see the impressive 7th-century oldest extant Islamic monument, the Dome of the Rock. Learn about its religious significance for Jews, Muslims and also Christians, its history, and the sensitive political weight it has today. (Dressing code: Modest dress is required. Men should wear long pants and a shirt that covers their shoulders. Women need long pants or a long skirt with a shirt that covers their shoulders and elbows. Clothes should be loose fitting.)

• Muslim Quarter - Extending from the Damascus Gate to the Via Dolorosa, the Muslim Quarter is the largest of the Old City’s quarters and has been home to Palestinian Arabs for centuries. Meet people who have lived in the Old City for generations, practicing their crafts and raising their families. Browse the famous Arab shuk (market) in the Muslim quarter. Its many stalls sell spices, pastries, pottery, sheepskin, embroidered clothes and so much more.

• Lunch on own in the Old City - We will be happy to provide you with recommendations of restaurants in Jerusalem and assist with making reservations upon request. (Meal and transportation are not included.)

• Mount of Olives - The Mount of Olives offers a panoramic lookout over the city. There are countless Jewish, Christian and Muslim traditions about Mt. Olives, including that from here the Messiah will come, and from here the dead will be resurrected in the vision of the End of Days. Enjoy a beautiful lookout of the Holy Basin, the old and new city of Jerusalem.

• Afternoon Old City Exploration on own

• Return to Lodging

• Mamilla Hotel Jerusalem (Booked on own)

Activities:

• Breakfast

• The Jewish Quarter Jerusalem - The Jewish Quarter is best known for the Western Wall, but there’s a lot more to see and do here. See archaeological finds from the First and Second Temple periods, Roman ruins, vibrant synagogues, and learning institutions, all jostling for space in these busy stone streets.

• Herodian Quarter – Wohl Archaeological Museum - Step beneath the streets of Jerusalem’s Jewish Quarter into the lavish world of the Herodian elite. This underground museum showcases the remains of luxurious homes from the Second Temple period, believed to have belonged to priestly families. Wander through ancient dining halls, ritual baths (mikvaot), and beautifully preserved frescoes and mosaics that reflect Roman and Hellenistic influences. A rare glimpse into the daily life, wealth, and spiritual practices of Jerusalem’s upper class just before the city’s destruction in 70 CE

• Cardo Old City Jerusalem - Explore the Jewish Quarter including synagogues, alleys and small shops of the Byzantine Cardo. You will see the artifacts uncovered during archaeological excavations that confirm two thousand years of Jewish presence in the Old City. Tour the Davidson Center, the Southern Wall Archaeological Gardens and Southern Kotel excavation.

• Lunch on own in the Old City - We will be happy to provide you with recommendations of restaurants in Jerusalem and assist with making reservations upon request. (Meal is not included.)

• Hurva Synagogue - Founded in the 18th century, the iconic Hurva synagogue in the old Jewish quarter was destroyed in 1948, leaving only an arch against the sky. Today, the Hurva has been restored to its early splendor as the heart of a vibrant Jewish community, offering marvelous views across the Old City from the balcony around its domed roof.

• The Western Wall Tunnels - Explore what’s under the Muslim Quarter through the Kotel Tunnels Tour. The Western Wall is impressive, but its greatness is truly discovered when you descend underground to the Western Wall Tunnels. The tunnels run along approximately 488 meters (1601ft) of the Western Wall, giving visitors a taste of the challenge that stood before Herod the Great during the biggest of all his immense building projects - the expansion of the Temple Mount.

• Davidson Center - Walk through the Southern Wall Archaeological Gardens. Get a glimpse of the glory of the Second Temple, the heart of the ancient Jewish kingdom, and the devastation that followed. Visit the Davidson Visitors' Center and enjoy a modern and interactive virtual presentation. The museum presents a taste of the archaeology of Jerusalem from different eras - covering the First Temple, Second Temple, Byzantine, Islamic, and the Crusades periods.

• Mamilla Hotel Jerusalem (Booked on own)

Activities:

• Breakfast

• Begin your day and explore the Jerusalem Hills at the beautiful Sataf forest for a short hike through the area - Explore the Jerusalem Hills at the beautiful Sataf forest for a hike through the area. Sataf is situated on the site of ancient agricultural terraces dating to the time of the ancient Israelites. Walk between the green trail, see the ancient water channels, and explore the local Israeli trees, such as olive, fig, almond, and pomegranate. If it’s warm enough, there’s even an option to take a dip in some of the natural springs. Along the way - forage for edible plants.

• Wine and cheese tasting at Tzora Vineyards - Visit Tzora Vineyards and enjoy tastings of excellent wines - this is a small boutique winery located on Kibbutz Tzora in the Ella Valley near Beit Shemesh. The winemaker Eran Pick holds the title “Master of Wine.” He is an experienced agronomist and vintner and is involved in the entire process, from growing and tending the vines to harvesting and winemaking to producing fine wines.

• Beit Guvrin-Maresha National Park - To really dig deep into the past, head to Beit Guvrin-Maresha, in the heart of The Land of Thousands of Caves, where hundreds of caves were carved as part of a huge quarry, some of which are linked by underground tunnels. Explore the underground town from the Hellenistic period, where vast spaces were excavated beneath the houses and used as storerooms, olive presses, or even columbarium hosing hundreds of pigeons. These caves later on were used as safe havens during the time of the Bar Kochba revolt against the Romans. Discover the amazing Bell Caves and don't miss out on a visit to the impressive Roman amphitheater.

• Tel Lachish National Park - Once the second most important city in the Kingdom of Judah after Jerusalem, Tel Lachish offers a powerful journey into biblical history and ancient warfare. Explore the reconstructed city gate, walk along the world’s oldest known siege ramp, and visit the remains of Iron Age palaces and temples. The site is famously linked to the Assyrian conquest in 701 BCE, vividly depicted in reliefs now housed in the British Museum. With new visitor trails and a modern interpretive center, Tel Lachish brings the drama of ancient Israel to life amid the serene Judean lowlands

• Return to Jerusalem

• Mamilla Hotel Jerusalem (Booked on own)

Activities:

• Check out from lodging and depart north

• Take a Stroll at the Artists' Stables (Urvot Ha'Omanim) - Once abandoned horse stables, this vibrant complex has been transformed into a bohemian haven of art, design, and community. Wander through boutique studios, sip coffee at a local café, and discover handcrafted jewelry, textiles, and natural cosmetics. With its charm and laid-back atmosphere, the Artists' Stables offer a colorful glimpse into Pardes Hana’s creative spirit.

• Continue to Zichron Yaakov - Established in December 1882, Zichron Ya'akov was one of the first modern Jewish communities in the country. Due to the massive support of Baron de Rothchild the town was soon named after Rothchild's father (Zichron Yaakov - "in memory of Jacob") and became known for its fine wine cellars, which produce high-quality vintages to this day. The town is also famous as the center of the NILI spy ring, organized by Jews to aid the British in ousting the Turks at the beginning of the 20th century. Tour the town to learn its history and enjoy its charming, shop-lined streets.

• Ein Hod artists tour - Art galleries tour with a local guide in Ein Hod artists' village - located on a hill, at the foot of Mount Carmel overlooking the Mediterranean coast. In the fifties, a group of artists led by the acclaimed Dada artist Marcel Janco decided that Ein Hod would be a place where they could work, build studios and workshops, and form a creative environment for art and art education. Walk between picturesque alleyways surrounded by natural greenery, meet local artists in their galleries, delve into the artwork, and get inspired by artistic creativity.

• Continue to hotel - And check-in

• Ruth Safed

Activities:

• Breakfast at hotel

• Morning walk in Tel Dan Nature Reserve - The visit combines a walk in lush wild greenery beside the flowing Dan Stream, with a biblical archaeological experience. At the heart of the park is “Tel Dan”- a central city in the Kingdom of Israel. Discover the significant archeological treasures and feel how the Biblical stories come to life with the beautiful scenery of the Land of Israel. On hot days, along the trail, you can enjoy a refreshing stop in shallow pools with cool water.

• Take a geo-political jeep tour of the Golan Heights with an expert - While traversing the rich landscape, learn about the history, flora, and fauna of the area. Stop for a lookout over the border with Syria from Mt. Bental to get a better understanding of the geography and strategic role this region has for the State of Israel. Your local guide touches on the nuances of living so close to the Syrian border and what that has meant for Israel as it relates to security and humanitarian issues.

• Lunch en route - (Not included)

• Ein Keshatot (Umm al-Kanatir) - Visit the charming Ein Keshatot site, also known as Um-el Kanatir, home to a Jewish village from the Period of the Mishna and Talmud, with a magnificent synagogue in its center. The ancient village is located above the Samekh Riverbed, looking towards the Kinneret and the hills of the Galilee. Enter a synagogue that features the original Ark Complex – the most preserved and magnificent ever to be discovered in Israel. The synagogue was excavated and reconstructed with advanced technological methods, and today it stands at a height of one story. The site offers a combination of nature, archeology, and ancient art while connecting to Jewish heritage.

• Ruth Safed

Activities:

• Breakfast at hotel - And check-out

• Tour Akko - Walk through 4,000 years of history in this ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage site. The ancient city of Akko, situated on the Mediterranean coast, is one of the oldest ports in the world, and a city shared by Jews, Muslims and Christians. Discover the impressive subterranean well-preserved Crusaders Middle Ages city,
  walk narrow streets past towering ramparts, venerable synagogues, slender Muslim minarets, and secret passageways. Learn about the city’s rich history, as well as its important role in Israel’s modern history.
  Continue to the vibrant Akko's shuk, a fun bazaar full of fresh produce, cheap eats, spices, and souvenirs. Akko also has several of the best hummus spots in all of Israel which are a “must-taste.”

• Lunch at Uri Buri - For the past 40 years , the popular Uri Buri restaurant has offered a variety of delicately prepared fresh fish and seafood dishes, and boasts a wine list with over 100 different kinds of fine Israeli wines. (lunch is not included)

• Visit Shefaram - Explore the history of Shefar'am, today an Arab city and the site of an ancient Jewish-Roman city which was the second Galilee site of the Sanhedrin (the supreme council and tribunal of the Jews during postexilic times), at the end of the second century AD. Explore the unique social variety of the town and its 2,500-year-old rich history.

• Tour Nazareth - Set in the Lower Galilee, Israel’s biggest Arab city, Nazareth, is a fascinating place. It combines traditional, simple Arabic charm, Christian history, and grand old Arabic architecture. Nazareth is home to many important early Christian sites, including the Basilica of the Annunciation, Mary’s Well, and the Synagogue Church, as well as an authentic, living Arab souk (market).

• Continue to Tel Aviv

• Dinner on your own - We will be happy to provide you with recommendations of restaurants in Tel Aviv and assist with making reservations upon request. (Meal and transportation are not included.)

• The Settai Tel Aviv (Booked on own)

Activities:

• Breakfast

• Tour the Old City of Lod - Discover the rich layers of history in the heart of Lod, one of Israel’s oldest cities. This immersive walking tour takes you through ancient streets where Canaanites, Israelites, Romans, and Ottomans once walked. Highlights include the Church of St. George, built over the tomb of the famed Christian martyr, the Khan al-Hilu caravanserai, and remnants of Lod’s vibrant olive oil industry. With its blend of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim heritage, the Old City offers a powerful glimpse into coexistence, resilience, and cultural legacy.

• Continue to the Lod Mosaic Archaeological Center - Discover one of Israel’s most breathtaking archaeological treasures at the Lod Mosaic Center, home to a remarkably preserved 3rd-century Roman mosaic. Originally part of a private villa, this expansive floor features vivid depictions of exotic animals, birds, fish, and ancient merchant ships—without a single inscription, adding to its mystery. After touring the world’s top museums, the mosaic now resides in a state-of-the-art center in Lod, offering visitors a rare glimpse into Roman artistry and daily life. A must-see for lovers of history, design, and ancient craftsmanship.

• Tasting Tour at Ramla Market (replaces lunch) - Dive into a vibrant tapestry of flavors, cultures, and colors at one of Israel’s most authentic and historic markets. Established during the Ottoman era, Ramla Market is a bustling hub where Jewish, Arab, and Ethiopian vendors offer everything from spices and street food to antiques and handmade goods. Savor legendary falafel, shawarma, and sweet treats like knafeh and baklava, or browse stalls brimming with fresh produce and rare spices. A true feast for the senses, this market is a celebration of coexistence and culinary heritage.

• Ashdod Yam Fortress - Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this striking coastal citadel dates back to the 7th century CE, built by Caliph Abd al-Malik atop Byzantine ruins. Once part of a strategic defense network, the fortress was used to signal danger with fire and smoke across the shoreline. Today, visitors can explore its towering sea gate, storerooms, and ancient lighthouse ruins, all beautifully restored with modern walkways and sunset lighting. A perfect blend of history, architecture, and seaside serenity, the site offers a powerful glimpse into Israel’s layered past

• Ashkelon National Park - Set along the Mediterranean coast, Ashkelon National Park is a stunning blend of archaeology, nature, and seaside beauty. Explore the ruins of ancient Ashkelon, including the world’s oldest vaulted gate from the Canaanite period, a Roman basilica, and impressive medieval fortifications built by the Fatimids. Wander scenic trails through sand dunes and kurkar cliffs, relax on the beach, or enjoy a picnic under the shade of eucalyptus trees. A perfect stop for history lovers and nature seekers alike

• The Settai Tel Aviv (Booked on own)

Activities:

• Breakfast

• Even Hoshen - Books for Bibliophiles - Book Binding Workshop with Ido Agassi - Tucked away in Ra’anana, Even Hoshen is a boutique publishing house dedicated to the art of the book. Specializing in limited-edition poetry, prose, and typographic treasures, each volume is crafted with exquisite attention to detail—often featuring hand-bound covers, fine paper, and original prints. A visit here offers bibliophiles a rare glimpse into the world of literary craftsmanship and Hebrew bookmaking at its finest.
  (Might move to a different day due to opening hours)

• Levinsky Market Tasting Tour (Replaces lunch) - The Levinsky Market specializes in spices and Mediterranean delicacies. It is, in many ways, the best market in Tel Aviv, known for its variety, freshness, and special atmosphere. Whether you are looking for a rare Indian spice or some good quality saffron - this is the place. Shops offer a cornucopia of excellent cheeses, smoked fish, wines, and other delicacies. Tour the market and have "tastings" throughout.

• Sarona Tunnels - The Sarona Tunnels in Tel Aviv offer a fascinating underground experience, connecting the city's vibrant Sarona Market with its historic German Templar Colony. Explore and discover hidden gems below the surface.

• The Square of the Kidnapped and Missing - Visit to The square of the Kidnapped and Missing in front of the Tel Aviv Art Museum. See the powerful art created by various artists, including the Shabbat Table set for 200 missing Israelis, to show support and shine a spotlight on the importance of rescuing the lives of those abducted to Gaza. (Hopefully, by the time of this mission, all of the hostages will have been released and back home with their families.)

• The Settai Tel Aviv (Booked on own)

Activities:

• Transfer to Ben Gurion Airport

• Departure on Flight #0407 6:25 A.M. - Your VIP agent will meet you at the departures terminal to assist with check-in and security procedures for your flight.

• Farewell! - We hope to host you again in our beautiful country!