Sail on the Sea of Galilee
Though having an impressive name, the famous Sea of Galilee is actually a humble landlocked freshwater lake located in the northeast part of Israel. A magnificent geographical marvel surrounded by rural agricultural settlements.
One of the best known biblical references is believed to have been delivered on a small hill on the lake's northwestern shore; Jesus' Sermon on the Mount (2017 “Sea of Galilee” See The Holy Land). This is definitely one of the top places to visit in Israel.
Also, it is Israel’s largest source of fresh drinking water, supplying about one-third of the nation’s annual water requirement.
The TBBMI team from Norway
Have a peek at the Capernaum
Of all the top things to do in Israel visiting Capernaum has to be one of them. Capernaum was believed to be the home of Jesus during the years of his ministry. Historically it was home to about 1500 inhabitants about 2000 years ago, and it is also known, and still is known, as the town of Jesus.
Modern archaeological excavations of a nearby village have slowly revealed a colorful historical past, such as:
- The two extremely ancient Synagogues that were built one over the other.
- A house from the Byzantine period, presumed to be the home of Saint Peter, turned into a church.
Note: "This village with the extraordinary past, that was ultimately abandoned by the Great Crusaders, was inhabited continuously from the 2nd century BC to the 11th century AD, according to modern archaeologists (2018 Capernaum). "
My awesome classmates at TBBMI (batch 2014-2015)
Get lost in the old-old city of Jerusalem
When picking out the top things to do in Israel, Jerusalem, an ancient city full of diversity, traditions and multiple religions should be high on your list. Jerusalem City is where you can find narrow winding cobblestone streets and alleys complimenting the timeless historical attractions in this city that is perched on top of some of the western histories most historical sites.
Jerusalem Old Town is a must when looking for top places to visit in Israel
- The Holy Sepulcher
- Temple Mount
- Western Wall
- Dome of the Rock
These are just some of the places to visit in Jerusalem's old town and considered must-see sites.
Climb or take a lift up to the Masada fortress
The ancient fortress of Masada, constructed by the Hasmonaean king, Alexander Jannaeus known as Herod the Great, in the early 1st century BC. The fortress was originally built as a lavish villa until a Jewish revolt broke out in 66A.D (2014, Dhwty.).
This incredible villa turned fortress is known as one of history's greatest sieges by the Roman army. The fortress was finally conquered around 73/74 AD.
Visiting Masada fortress is not just about its great history; it’s also about an exotic adventure of experiencing the untamed wild of the dessert too. Because of the unique climate and dessert conditions elements of the Roman siege over 2000 years ago are perfectly preserved. You will still find ancient Roman installations such as dikes, and ramparts that were part of a larger siege camp located at the base of Masada Fortress.
In here, you can also see and learn about the Roman war and survival tactics, the story of Zealots, and just seeing what the toilets looked like way back then was very impressive.
It is now Israeli’s national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The pictures that I took in Mount Masada don’t give justice to what I had seen and experienced in the Masada desert. So, you must visit the Masada for yourself a top place in Israel.
Golan Heights
The Golan Heights, known in modern times as the pinnacle of the 1967 six day war, between Israel, Egypt Jordan and Syria. From here you can see the borders of the neighboring countries; like Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan. The Soldiers on watch here are from the UN.
I definitely recommend Golan Heights as one of the top things to do in Israel.
Tip: There is a popular cafe called Cafe Anan, a perfect place to relax and get refreshments when you get tired of the scorching heat of the sun.
River of Jordan
The cultural significance of the river of Jordan should not be excluded from the top places to visit while in Israel.
The Jordan river is a frequent symbol in folk, gospel, spiritual music, as well as, poetic and literary works and achievements. Giving this region a significant place in the development of culture and traditions throughout the generations, especially in the three main religions: Christianity, Muslims, and Judaism.
River of Jordan, though sounding big, it was actually smaller than one would think it should be. The river is more of like a creek and less like a river. Though the river might be small the religious significance is quite large. It is believed that John The Baptist baptized Jesus in this very small river with its very large name.
Note: According to Jewish tradition, the Israelites made a difficult and hazardous journey from slavery in Egypt to freedom in the Promised Land.
Photo credit: TBBMI
The World Holocaust Remembrance Center
As you go through the Center, you will educate yourself to one of the darkest periods in our modern day history; the Holocaust museum. Just a little bit of warning though; be prepared as you watch the documentaries or see the pictures of people and the atrocious acts they were forced to endure. It is hard to understand how this could have happened. You may leave a little sad but know you have witnessed history.
Yad Vashem Hall of Names by David Shankbone.
Yad Vashem, Hall of Remembrance
Theatre at Caesarea National Park (Caesarea)
The most ancient theater uncovered in Israel. It is an early Roman theater built as well by Herod the great in the 1st century BCE. It was amazing looking at the ruins of the harbor. We visited the city during the middle of the day so the heat was quite intense. Make sure to always carry sun protection.
The Theater "The only remnants left from the Theater of Caesarea are rows of seats, the orchestra, the stage, and the scena-frons which is an ornamental wall behind the stage."
The beautiful beach at Caesarea National Park (Caesarea).
Float in the Dead Sea
At first, I actually thought it was a joke to float in the Dead Sea. But when I experienced it myself; it was like magic. The Dead Sea also called the “Salt Sea” is a salt lake. Because of the lake’s high salt content, there is unbelievable super buoyancy. This is not to be missed and should be on your list of the places to visit in Israel. Enjoy!
Photo credit: Itamar Grinberg for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism.
Unfortunately, we were adviced not to bring our valuable things while we were in the dead sea, so I left my camera and had to get this picture from Pixabay. This clearly describes the place where we were at.
View of the Dead Sea from the Masada Fortress.
Bethlehem
Bethlehem is located in the Westbank, south of Jerusalem and is occupied by Palestinian. As one of the oldest city in the world, Bethlehem is one of the top places to visit in Israel all year round.
While Bethlehem is a home to Arab Christian communities, it also a home to Muslims and one of the top destinations for pilgrimage.
The Jews also regarded Bethlehem as the hometown and birthplace of the King David of Israel.
Here you can find the Church of Nativity which has an underground cave where Mary gave birth to Jesus in the stable. This made Bethlehem more popular on Christmas times for Christians.
(Though personally, I would rather love to see it in the actual cave with stable than inside the church of Nativity grotto.)
I grew up in a country that celebrates Christmas from September until 1st or 2nd week of January. So, Jesus' nativity in Bethlehem is always part of the celebration and stories being told. Yet, to be in the actual place where all this Christmas celebration began was something really special. How much more if you can spend your Christmas here?
There go my top things to do in Israel. I’m sure you’ll discover more when you get there. Are you ready to go to Israel now? Before you go, I wrote about 10 things you need to know when visiting Israel in my previous article. There are many group tours and pilgrimage groups to Israel and if you’re interested in joining them, feel free to contact me. Thank you for dropping by and if you find this article useful, feel free to share.
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