Open Israel Tour Itinerary 2026

Day 3 (March 17) – Caesarea | Mt. Carmel | Tiberias

After breakfast, we embark on a journey along the beautiful Mediterranean coast to Caesarea Maritima, where Peter proclaimed the gospel to Cornelius and Paul stood trial before Roman governors. As we explore Herod the Great’s magnificent harbor, palace, and amphitheater, we’ll picture the bustling port that once connected Israel to the ancient world.

Next, we ascend Mt. Carmel, where Elijah boldly faced the prophets of Baal. Standing where fire fell from heaven, we’ll gaze across the Jezreel Valley, imagining that dramatic confrontation and God’s undeniable power. From there, we journey through the scenic Galilean hills, arriving in Tiberias to settle into our lakeside hotel on the Sea of Galilee. (Breakfast & Dinner included)

Day 4 (March 18) – Sea of Galilee | Mount of Beatitudes | Tabgha | Capernaum & Baptismal Site

This morning, we board a boat and sail across the Sea of Galilee, pausing mid-lake to reflect on the One who calmed these very waters. We’ll visit the preserved “Jesus Boat”, a 2,000-year-old fishing vessel that offers a tangible connection to the world of the apostles.

Continuing along the shore, we visit the Mount of Beatitudes, where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount. Imagine sitting on that hillside as you hear once more, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” In Capernaum, the center of Jesus’s Galilean ministry, we walk through the ruins of the ancient synagogue where he taught.

We’ll end our day along the Jordan River, where you’ll have the opportunity to remember your baptism in the very waters where Jesus himself was baptized. (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included)

Day 5 (March 19) – Nazareth  |  Cana  |  Megiddo

We begin in Cana, the village where Jesus turned water into wine. Here, couples will have the meaningful opportunity to renew their wedding vows—a beautiful reminder of God's covenant love.

From Cana, we travel to Nazareth, Jesus’s childhood home, where we visit the Orthodox Church of the Annunciation and stand where Mary first heard the angel's life-changing message. Next, we explore Tel Megiddo, an ancient fortress that overlooks the Jezreel Valley—better known as the prophesied site of Armageddon.

As the afternoon light softens the hills, we begin our ascent to the Holy City of Jerusalem. Cresting the final ridge, we’ll see the city spread before us—a moment that never fails to stir the soul. (Breakfast & Dinner included)

Day 6 (March 20) –  Mt. of Olives | Israel Museum | Jerusalem Model | Shrine of the Book | Bethlehem

Our morning begins atop the Mount of Olives, where we enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Jerusalem’s golden domes and stone streets. As we walk the Palm Sunday path, we’ll recall Jesus's triumphant entry into the city.

Next, we head to the Israel Museum, where we’ll see a meticulously crafted model of ancient Jerusalem and stand before the Dead Sea Scrolls—some of the oldest known biblical manuscripts.

In the afternoon, we journey to Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus. At the Shepherds’ Field, we’ll sing familiar carols that echo the angelic announcement of peace and good news. Our day concludes with a visit to the Church of the Nativity, where we’ll kneel in the grotto that tradition holds as the site of Christ’s birth. (Breakfast & Dinner included)

Day 7 (March 21) – Masada | Ein Gedi | Caves of Qumran | Dead Sea

Today, we head into the Judean wilderness, where barren cliffs and endless skies remind us of Israel's desert wanderings.

Our first stop is Masada, the mountaintop fortress where Jewish rebels made their final stand against Rome. We’ll ascend by cable car and walk the ruins of Herod’s opulent palace, all while marveling at the stark beauty of the surrounding desert.

From Masada, we visit Ein Gedi, the oasis where David hid from Saul. We’ll pause by cascading springs to read from the Psalms and imagine David's prayers echoing off these rocky walls.

At Qumran, we’ll learn about the Essene community and the young shepherd who stumbled upon the Dead Sea Scrolls. Then it's off to the Dead Sea, where you can float effortlessly in its mineral-rich waters. Finally, we’ll visit Wadi Qelt, a rugged gorge that tradition associates with the “valley of the shadow of death.” (Breakfast & Dinner included)

Day 8 (March 22) – Temple Mount | Western Wall | Jewish Quarter

Today, we explore the heart of ancient Jerusalem. We’ll begin at the Southern Steps, where Jesus once walked and taught. As we touch the worn stone, we’ll feel the weight of history beneath our feet.

Next, we make our way to the Western Wall, Judaism's most sacred site. You'll have time to write a prayer, fold it into the crevices of the wall, and join generations of pilgrims who have done the same.

In the Jewish Quarter, we’ll walk the ancient Cardo (Roman street) and explore the layers of history preserved beneath today’s bustling markets. (Breakfast & Dinner included)

Day 9 (March 23) – Free Day in Jerusalem

Today, the city is yours to explore. Wander through the colorful markets of the Old City, savor the aroma of fresh bread and spices, or take a contemplative walk along the Ramparts atop the city walls.

For those seeking deeper reflection, you might visit Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust Memorial, or venture into Hezekiah’s Tunnel, a remarkable feat of ancient engineering. (Breakfast & Dinner included)

Day 10 (March 24) – Jerusalem | Gethsemane | Via Dolorosa | Holy Sepulchre | Garden Tomb  

Our final day takes us into the heart of Jesus’s passion. We begin in the Garden of Gethsemane, standing beside ancient olive trees that witnessed Jesus’s agony. Inside the Church of All Nations, we’ll kneel beside the rock of Christ's prayer and reflect on his ultimate surrender.

We then walk the Via Dolorosa, tracing Jesus’s path to the cross. As we pass the Stations of the Cross, we’ll pause to remember his suffering and sacrifice. At the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, we’ll stand before the traditional sites of the crucifixion and resurrection.

Finally, we gather at the Garden Tomb, a peaceful site that reminds us of the empty grave. Here, we’ll share communion and celebrate the unshakable truth: He is risen! (Breakfast & Dinner included)

Day 11 (March 25) – Tel Aviv to U.S.

With hearts full and memories etched into our souls, we say farewell to the land where faith came to life. As we board our flight home, we’ll carry with us more than photos or souvenirs—we’ll carry the stories, the truths, and the transformative experiences of walking in the footsteps of Jesus. (Breakfast included)