7 Spirited Days in Israel and Jordan (Our Itinerary)

Day 1 - Arrive to Tel Aviv at 9:30 AM

• Check out the neighborhood, grab a coffee, and settle in (we rented an apartment in a new modern building close to the old city)

• Visit Mamilla Mall which is directly connected to the old city center.

• Meander through the old city bazaar and visit one or more of the many notable landmarks. *We visited the Church of The Holy Sepulchre multiple times during our stay because it's always packed with tourists but also because there is so much to take in!

Top 5 Landmarks in Old City of Jerusalem

Western Wall (Wailing Wall):

• A sacred site for Jewish worship and pilgrimage.

• The last remnant of the Second Temple, destroyed in 70 CE.

• A place for prayer, reflection, and leaving written prayers in the cracks of the wall.

Church of the Holy Sepulchre:

• One of Christianity's holiest sites, believed to be the place of Jesus' crucifixion, burial, and resurrection.

• A complex of chapels, altars, and relics, including the Stone of Anointing and the Edicule.

• A destination for pilgrims and visitors from around the world.

Dome of the Rock:

• An iconic symbol of Jerusalem's skyline, located on the Temple Mount.

• A revered site in Islam, believed to be where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven.

• Known for its golden dome and intricate mosaics, it is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city.

Al-Aqsa Mosque:

• The third holiest site in Islam, adjacent to the Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount.

• A place of worship and pilgrimage for Muslims, with a rich history dating back to the 7th century.

• Known for its elegant architecture and expansive courtyards.

Tower of David (Jerusalem Citadel):

• A historic fortress and museum located near the Jaffa Gate.

• Offers panoramic views of the Old City and surrounding areas.

• Houses exhibitions on Jerusalem's history, archaeology, and cultural heritage.

Day 2 - Explore The Galilee Region - Full Day Visit

We sourced a guided tour to help ensure that we could focus on taking in the sites and experiences instead of navigating between landmarks, however these locations are easy to access and appeared to have ample parking if you prefer to set your own pace and drive yourself.

Nazareth: Visit the City of Nazareth

Welcome to Nazareth, a city steeped in history and spirituality! As you wander through its bustling streets, you'll feel the vibrant energy and cultural richness that have characterized this ancient city for centuries. Nazareth holds a special place in Christian tradition as the hometown of Jesus, and exploring its winding alleys and vibrant markets is like stepping back in time to biblical days.

Church of the Annunciation:

Prepare to be awestruck as you enter the magnificent Church of the Annunciation, a true masterpiece of architecture and faith. This sacred site is believed to be the spot where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, announcing that she would give birth to Jesus. As you marvel at the stunning mosaics and intricate artwork adorning the church's interior, you'll feel a profound sense of reverence and wonder.

St. Joseph's Church:

Just a stone's throw away from the Church of the Annunciation lies St. Joseph's Church, a serene and contemplative sanctuary. Built over the site where tradition holds that Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, had his carpentry workshop, this church exudes a sense of peace and tranquility. Take a moment to reflect on the humble origins of Jesus' earthly family and the timeless significance of their story.

Sea of Galilee:

Behold the breathtaking beauty of the Sea of Galilee, a tranquil oasis nestled amidst rolling hills and verdant landscapes. Known as Lake Kinneret in Hebrew, this iconic body of water holds immense significance in both biblical history and contemporary culture. Whether you're taking a leisurely boat ride across its shimmering surface or simply soaking in the panoramic views from its shores, the Sea of Galilee is sure to leave an indelible impression on your soul.

Kfar Cana:

Journey to the charming village of Kfar Cana, where tradition holds that Jesus performed his first miracle – turning water into wine at a wedding feast. As you wander through its quaint streets and soak in the rustic charm of its surroundings, you'll feel a sense of wonder at the timeless stories that have unfolded in this picturesque corner of the world.

Mount of Beatitudes:

Ascend to the majestic Mount of Beatitudes, where Jesus delivered his renowned Sermon on the Mount. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the azure waters of the Sea of Galilee, this sacred site invites you to reflect on the timeless teachings of love, compassion, and righteousness. Take a moment to soak in the tranquil atmosphere and let the words of Jesus resonate in your heart.

Capernaum:

Step back in time as you explore the ancient ruins of Capernaum, once a bustling fishing village and the center of Jesus' ministry in the Galilee region. Wander among the remnants of ancient synagogues and dwellings, imagining the scenes of miracles and teachings that unfolded in this sacred space. From the shores of the Sea of Galilee to the heart of Capernaum, every step is a journey through the pages of biblical history.

These destinations offer a captivating blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty, inviting travelers to embark on a soul-stirring adventure through the heartland of biblical Israel.

Day 3 - Bethlehem and Return to the Old City Center in Jerusalem

We found another tour for a partial day visit to Bethlehem, which I would strongly recommend versus attempting to drive into Palestine on your own. This part of the trip definitely helped us better understand the differences in day to day lives of Israeli and Palestinian people. It also introduced us to some of the most significant religious landmarks in the world.

Chapel of the Shepherd's Field:

Located near Bethlehem, this chapel commemorates the biblical site where shepherds are said to have received the angelic announcement of Jesus' birth. It is a peaceful and contemplative place, surrounded by rolling hills and pastoral landscapes.

The Milk Grotto Church:

This church in Bethlehem is built upon a cave believed to be where the Holy Family sought refuge during the Flight to Egypt. According to tradition, a drop of Mary's milk turned the cave white, giving it its name. The church is a place of prayer and devotion for Christians seeking solace and blessings.

Church of the Nativity:

One of the oldest continuously operating churches in the world, the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem marks the traditional birthplace of Jesus. Its humble yet majestic interior features ancient mosaics, columns, and religious artifacts, attracting pilgrims and visitors from around the globe.

Cave of St. Jerome:

This cave, located near Bethlehem, is traditionally associated with St. Jerome, who translated the Bible into Latin (Vulgate) during his time there. It serves as a place of pilgrimage for those interested in the history of biblical translation and the life of St. Jerome.

Tomb of Rachel:

Situated on the outskirts of Bethlehem, the Tomb of Rachel is a revered site for Jewish, Christian, and Muslim traditions. It is believed to be the burial place of Rachel, the biblical matriarch, and serves as a place of prayer and reflection for those seeking solace and spiritual connection.

Sanctuary Bethlehem Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria:

This sanctuary, located in Bethlehem, is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria, a revered Christian martyr. It is a place of worship and pilgrimage, featuring beautiful artwork, ornate architecture, and spiritual significance.

Bethlehem Museum:

The Bethlehem Museum 

Musuem that offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the history, culture, and heritage of Bethlehem and its surroundings. Through exhibitions, artifacts, and interactive displays, the museum showcases Bethlehem's rich past and its enduring significance in religious and cultural contexts.

These landmarks in and around Bethlehem offer profound insights into biblical history, religious tradition, and cultural heritage, inviting visitors to explore and reflect on the timeless stories and spiritual significance associated with the Holy Land.

The remaining part of the day led us back to the center of old Jerusalem with a focus on the Bazaar and The Church of the Holy Sepluchre.

The Church of the Holy Sepluchre, tradition says, is where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected, making it one of the holiest places in Christianity. The atmosphere is charged with reverence as pilgrims from around the world gather to pray and reflect on the pivotal events of Jesus' life. Despite its age and the complexities of its shared ownership by various Christian denominations, the church stands as a testament to the enduring faith and unity of believers. Its majestic architecture and intricate artwork add to the sense of wonder, drawing me deeper into the rich tapestry of Christian history and spirituality.

Note that all of our stops with only a few exceptions (Nazareth locations, specifically) were VERY busy with tourists and they were often aggressively trying to make their way through the various queues to see these landmarks. Hold your spot as well as possible and don't be afraid to push back when needed. Despite the crowds, these were some of the most remarkable places we've ever visited, and they are fully worth the long lines and tourist congestion.

Day 4 - Off to Amman

We flew from Tel Aviv to Amman on Royal Jordanian Airlines. It's a very quick trip but helps you avoid the notoriously long waits and unpredictable nature of the land border crossing and transport between these countries. We almost always pre-book transport when we arrive in a new place to help mitigate our anxiety about finding a reputable taxi driver or other means of commuting while carrying along our bags and searching for our hotel. We splurged a bit on our hotel since we were celebrating a birthday. We stayed at the Ritz Carlton, and it was stunning! We highly recommend it.

Exploring Modern Amman's shopping malls and restaurants was an unexpected highlight. We found some great sunglasses and enjoyed really flavorful Mediterranean food as we turned in early to get ready for our early trip to Petra the next day.

Day 5 - Petra

It took about 3.5 hours from our hotel in Amman to arrive at the entrance of Petra. We spent the rest of the day exploring.

Entrance into Petra Video Taken During Trip

Petra is a mesmerizing ancient city nestled amidst the rugged desert landscapes of Jordan. Carved into rose-colored sandstone cliffs by the Nabataeans over two millennia ago, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. As you enter through the narrow Siq, a dramatic canyon flanked by towering rock formations, you'll feel like you're stepping back in time to a lost world of grandeur and mystique. Emerging from the Siq, the iconic Treasury (Al-Khazneh) comes into view, its intricate facade bathed in the soft glow of the sun. Wander further into the city to discover a wealth of ancient tombs, temples, and monuments, each bearing testament to Petra's rich history as a vibrant center of trade and culture. Don't miss the imposing Monastery (Ad Deir) perched high atop a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. Whether you're an archaeology enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler seeking adventure, Petra promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of antiquity, where the echoes of the past resonate with every step you take.

Reference Guide and Photo of The Treasury in Petra

Day 6 - Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is approximately 2 hours from Petra with a beautiful drive through the Arabian Desert.

Wadi Rum is a mesmerizing desert wilderness located in southern Jordan, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and dramatic landscapes. As you venture into this otherworldly terrain, you'll find yourself surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs, vast expanses of red sand dunes, and rugged mountains that seem to stretch endlessly into the horizon. The silence of the desert is broken only by the gentle rustle of the wind and the occasional call of a desert bird, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity. Wadi Rum is a place of contrasts, where the harshness of the desert is softened by the subtle colors of the sand and the ever-changing light of the sun. As you explore this ancient land, you'll encounter ancient rock carvings and inscriptions left behind by past civilizations, offering glimpses into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Whether you're embarking on a jeep safari, camping under the stars, or simply taking in the stunning vistas, Wadi Rum promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you in awe of the wonders of the natural world.

Wadi Rum's striking and otherworldly landscapes have served as the backdrop for several notable films. Some of the most prominent movies filmed in Wadi Rum include:

• "Lawrence of Arabia" (1962) - This epic historical drama directed by David Lean features extensive scenes shot in Wadi Rum, immortalizing the desert's rugged beauty on the silver screen.

• "The Martian" (2015) - Directed by Ridley Scott and starring Matt Damon, this science fiction film includes scenes filmed in Wadi Rum, standing in for the surface of Mars.

• "Aladdin" (2019) - Disney's live-action adaptation of the classic tale features scenes filmed in Wadi Rum, showcasing the desert's mystical landscapes as the backdrop for the fictional city of Agrabah.

• "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen" (2009) - Parts of this action-packed sequel were filmed in Wadi Rum, with the desert serving as a visually stunning setting for the film's high-octane action sequences.

• "Theeb" (2014) - This acclaimed Jordanian film, nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, was shot entirely in Wadi Rum, capturing the desert's raw beauty and serving as a powerful reflection of Jordanian culture and heritage.

These are just a few examples of the many films that have been shot in Wadi Rum, highlighting the desert's cinematic appeal and its ability to transport audiences to distant and fantastical worlds.

Day 7 - Amman

Top 4 things to do in Amman:

Explore the Citadel:

Begin your Amman adventure at the Citadel, a historic site perched atop a hill with stunning views of the city skyline. Discover ancient ruins like the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace, offering a glimpse into Jordan's rich history.

Visit the Roman Theatre:

Immerse yourself in Jordan's past at the Roman Theatre, an iconic amphitheater located in downtown Amman. Admire its well-preserved architecture and imagine the lively performances that once took place here.

Wander through the Markets:

Get lost in the bustling souks of downtown Amman, such as Souk Al-Bukharia and Souk Jara. Explore narrow alleyways filled with colorful stalls selling spices, textiles, and handicrafts, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Jordanian market culture. We picked up some oud soaps, oils and spices during our visit.

Discover Jordanian Cuisine:

Delight your taste buds with the flavors of Jordan at Amman's diverse dining scene. Sample traditional dishes like mansaf and falafel at local eateries or indulge in international cuisines at trendy cafes and restaurants throughout the city.

Amman offers a wealth of experiences for visitors to enjoy, from exploring ancient landmarks and vibrant markets to indulging in delicious cuisine.

After 7 amazing days, which genuinely represented one of our best ever getaways, we headed back home to the United States. This was a trip that we will always remember and have talked about revisiting in a couple of years to see some of the places we missed during our visit, but also to go back to some of the places that left a lasting impression on us.