Small-Group Day-Trip Along Israel's Mediterranean Coast

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This full-day tour includes gems along the Mediterranean coast such as Caeserea, the port and the underground city of Akko, the Bahai gardens in Haifa and the limestone grottos at Rosh Hanikra.

Highlights

Enjoy a full-day tour with a small group of maximum 19 passengers
Walk through ancient Roman ruins in Caesarea
Take in an amazing view from the balcony of Baha'i gardens in Haifa
Ride the steepest cable car in the world at Rosh Hanikra to visit the natural grottos
Wander through the oriental bazaar in Acre

Description

After the pick up from your hotel in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv, you will drive northwards along the coastal Mediterranean plain. The begins with the city of Caesarea, which was constructed under Herod and named after the Roman Emperor, Caesar. From what remains of the ancient city you can see that it was a prosperous and luxurious city. Among the archaeological excavations you can see gateways, a moat and well preserved walls and rooms. There is a perfectly preserved Roman amphitheater which is still used today for performances by Israeli and international artists. The Roman remains were preserved for centuries by the sea sand which covered and protected the stones. Next to the amphitheater is part of what was once a hippodrome. We can see the remains of a Roman Temple which stood above the port overlooking the busy commercial ships which carried treasures from the east and the Nabatean caravans which were on route to Rome. Following the Romans the city stood neglected for centuries until the Crusaders arrived but in the years after the Crusaders the city once again sank into oblivion. The tour continues with a drive north, passing through Haifa where you will stop to see the breathtaking Baha'i Shrine and gardens. Please note, the tour does not include entry to the gardens, but instead you will view them from above. The terraced gardens cascade down the mountain towards the city below, each of the 19 terraces bursts with colorful flowers and landscaped designs. The next stop is at Rosh Hanikra, the most northerly point along Israel's Mediterranean coast. You will descend by cable car into the network of limestone grottoes created by the constant bombardment of waves against the rocks. On the return journey south the tour stops at Acre (Acco), the largest Crusader city in the country. The city is extremely well preserved and you can't help being impressed by the incredible architecture and how it has survived. Part of the city is alive with markets and people still living in the ancient buildings. You will see the walls and moat which was reconstructed and repaired by El Jazzar at the end of the 1900s. The mighty walls prevented even Napoleon conquering the city. You can see the Crusader remains, the prison used under Turkish rule and the gallows which were later used under the British Mandate to hang Jews who broke the British law limiting Jewish immigration following World War II.

Includes

Pick up and drop-off at your accommodation Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle Professional guide Entrance fees to Caesarea National Park, Rosh Hanikra, and Akko
Food and drinks Gratuities (recommended)

Important Information

Hats and comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Tour is not suitable for children under the age of 4 • Please note, the tour does not include entry to the gardens, but instead you will view them from above