1.   Wailing Wall

The Wailing Wall or Kotel, as it’s also known, is one of the best known attractions in all of Israel. More than 11 million people visit this place each year. It was a part of Temple Mount which was present for 1,000 years. As such, you can imagine the importance and the sentimental value of it.

We should add that visitors can also explore the Western Wall Tunnels. These tunnels are beneath the actual wall and exploring them is an experience like no other. It is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to see how the tunnels and wall were made and to learn more about the intriguing, historical construction processes.

2.   Aish HaTorah

The organization, ‘’Fire of Torah’’ or Aish HaTorah assists Jewish people in finding and protecting their heritage. In Israel, they are located in the Jewish Quarter and this site is known as one of the most beautiful places ever. A Jewish heritage trip or tour is not the same without this site, simply due to the importance it has for the Jewish religion and specifically, for younger people.

3.   Tower of David

Located in the old part of Jerusalem, the Tower of David reveals a 2000-year-old history. It is a very impressive site and one of the best-known citadels in the world. Millions of people come each year to visit this place and enjoy the architecture. A huge feature is the nightly spectacular show which includes projections on the walls of the structure.

4.   Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter incorporates several synagogues of great importance. They have been among us for many centuries, including the Hurva Synagogue which was built in the 18th century. Sadly, it was almost completely destroyed in the past but finally was rebuilt in 2010. Other synagogues in the area share similarly sad pasts, but luckily most of them have been rebuilt since then. Many were destroyed in the Arab-Israeli war.

5.   The City of David

The City of David is commonly thought of as the birthplace of all of Jerusalem. It was the original place where King David established his powerful kingdom. Today, this is an archeological site that comes with tunnels and impressive constructions- great areas to explore and enrich your Israel experience with the vast history.

Summary

Jewish Heritage tours and Holy Land Tours in Israel truly have plenty to offer. They are impressive no matter your religious affiliation, but they are especially sentimental and astounding for those with any interest in Judaism. If you’re interested in exploring the rich and historical splendor Israel has to offer, look no further than a vacation with Israel Tour.  

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Hungary

Castle Hill:

Castle Hill is a fantastic tourist attraction located on the west side of the Danube. It is officially listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was done in 1987. However, the area has been around way longer than that. Settlers first saw it in the 11th century. When you visit as a tourist, the cobblestone streets will transport you to a medieval atmosphere rife with Budapest history- it’s a must see for anyone visiting Budapest and anyone interested in history in general.

From the Buda Castle itself to Matthias Church to the underground Castle Labyrinth to the Museum of Music History to the Museum of Telephony to Fisherman’s Bastion to more, you’ll find there’s almost no end to what you can learn about Budapest’s past. The lack of vehicle traffic also creates an old-timey sensation. 

Czech Republic

Prague Castle:

Prague Castle is the center-point of Prague tourist attractions and a must-see for anyone visiting the area for the first time. In the city’s Hradčany neighborhood and dating from the late 10th century, Prague Castle has been central to Eastern European history for centuries, and once housed Holy Roman Emperors, the Habsburgs, and Bohemian kings. Over the course of its 1,000-year history, the castle – the largest in the world in terms of area – has undergone many dramatic changes in architectural style, evidence of which can be seen in the numerous buildings constructed within its walls through the centuries. Highlights include beautiful St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George’s Basilica, the Powder Tower, and the Golden Lane with its medieval workshops. Of particular note is the Old Royal Palace with its magnificent Vladislav Hall, so big it was used to host knightly jousting tournaments, as well as the adjoining 16th-century Royal Garden with its spectacular Singing Fountain.

Poland

Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp:

Though an incredibly somber site, Auschwitz-Birkenau is a highly ranked visit in Poland. It was the largest of the many concentration camps under Hitler’s reign. Also, the most infamous of the extermination camps was Auschwitz-Birkenau, now a memorial and museum, in the town of Oświęcim. More than a million people were murdered over a four-year period here. Much of the camp has been preserved as it was during the war, allowing visitors to learn, bear witness and resolve that this can never happen again. Several trips you can take with Israel Tours pay their respects to this somber site.

Germany

Schloss Neuschwanstein:

Like a fairytale castle, the Schloss (castle) Neuschwanstein rises up above the Bavarian woods. Actually, the castle was the inspiration for the castle in Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty, given it’s undeniable royal, European charm. 

The castle is exquisitely designed, both in terms of architecture, and with respect to the regale adornment both on the exterior and within the interior. If you spend any amount of time in Germany, visiting Schloss Neuschwanstein is a must.

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Falafel

The origins of falafel go way back and whichever nationality lays claim to the invention, there’s no doubt it’s a core element of Israeli cuisine today. You’ll find it on many restaurant menus.. In Israel it’s cheaper to go out and buy pre-made falafel  than it is to try and make it at home. Made from fava beans, chickpeas, or both, a traditional falafel will be served with all the trimmings, including the aforementioned hummus, pink pickled turnips, pita bread, traditional Israeli salad and pickles too.   

Dried Fruit

Don’t just stop by a shuk (market) and look at the amazing displays of dried fruit; try a few. We recommend dried pineapple and strawberries. Also, Israelis add dried lemon to everything from salads to rice. Don’t leave Shuk Mahane Yehuda in Jerusalem, one of Israel’s most popular markets and tourist attractions, without taking some dried fruit with you.

Tahini

Tahini is used to make a variety of delicious, traditional Israeli foods, ranging from hummus to date products, to shawarma (like a kebab), chalba and onto salads. The tahini comes from nigella seeds and is sold in high volumes due to its wild popularity. Most people would say that the fundamental ingredients of the food in Israel are garlic, olive oil and tahini. With that being said, you’ll be exposed to it while you’re in Israel.

Aubergine

Aubergine, or eggplant, is a core dish of Israeli cuisine. Whether it’s tahini laced, smoked, lined with yogurt or some sort of mixture of all three, you’ll find it in any traditional Israeli breakfast and probably lunch and dinner too.

Eggplant can be served as a dish in itself (just char the skins) but in Israel you’ll often see it served in baba ganoush form too. This is simply aubergine mixed with tahini, lemon juice, garlic and whatever other flavors you want to add and served, of course, with bread.

Jachnun

This puff pastry is commonly eaten on Shabbat morning, but can be found all over- these delicious snacks can be found at the Shuk HaCarmel market in Tel Aviv. Don’t expect anything too sweet though, these long, pastry delicacies are only slightly sweet. But don’t worry, there’s plenty to satisfy your sweet tooth in Israel. 

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The action formalized a shift towards improved Cuban-American relations that our former president unveiled nearly two years ago with the announcement that he and President Raúl Castro of Cuba had agreed to repair their countries’ relationship. This relationship had been severed for decades. Back in 1960, the United States imposed a trade embargo against Cuba. The Blockade was created after Cuba usurped American-owned oil refineries.

As part of this embargo, travel to Cuba by Americans has been illegal for over half a century. Or more technically, it’s illegal for U.S. citizens to have transactions (spend money or receive gifts) in Cuba under most circumstances. Though sanctions have been put in place to make Cuban-American relations more amicable, this rule is still in place. Subsequently, individual americans cannot travel to Cuba- you have to be part of a tour, such as the ones offered by Israel Tour. Israel Tour offers several selections- tours with Rabbi Joshua Gruenberg, Rabbi Ari Sunshine, Reabbi Jordan Goldson and Rabbi Bernstain. We also offer a cruise to Cuba! Anyways, now is the time to go, as Trump’s policies may inhibit future Cuban vacation goals. Currently, travel to Cuba still remains open to all Americans despite Trump’s crackdown on June 16, 2017. In this post, we explore some of the country’s greatest attractions.

Habana Vieja

No wonder it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site- Habana Vieja or Old Havana is a well-preserved slice of Cuban history, reminiscent of 100 to 200 years ago. Major areas of interest in Old Havana include:  the Plaza de la Catedral, home to the Cuban Baroque Catedral de San Cristobal; the legendary restaurant and Hemingway hangout, Bodeguita del Medio; and the military fortress, Castillo de la Real Fuerza. The focal point of the area is Plaza Vieja, which boasts impressive sights such as the beautiful 18th-century Casa del Conde Jaruco with stained glass windows and the nearby camera obscura, from which visitors can witness fantastic views.

Trinidad

Trinidad is a town in central Cuba, known for its colonial old town and cobblestone streets, reminiscent of the 17th through 19th centuries in which the area prospered from both the slave and sugar trades. Its neo-baroque main square, Plaza Mayor, is surrounded by picturesque architecture, including such buildings as Museo Romántico, in the restored Palacio Brunet mansion and Museo de Arquitectura Colonial. Visiting this city is a must for anyone in Cuba. You can walk cobblestone streets, listen to live music in the plaza, hop into a horse-drawn carriage, cool off with fresh sugarcane juice, chat with locals, or visit informative and interesting colonial museums.

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Montreal

Old Montreal

Old Montreal, a section of the town with the oldest architecture and richest history, is consistently rated as the number one thing to do in Montreal. Old Montreal was the old center of the city and visiting there feels like you’ve just stepped out of a time machine.  Horse-drawn carriages travel down cobblestone streets, passing notable sites such as the Basilique Notre-Dame, the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall), the Vieux-Port (Old Port) and the Marché Bonsecours (Bonsecours Market). The area also boasts a number of bars, clubs, cafes and restaurants that you can’t miss. Old Montreal is also easily reached- it is accessible from downtown via the Underground City and is served by several STM bus routes and the Champ-de-Mars, Place-d’Armes and Square-Victoria-OACI Metro stations.

Montreal Botanical Gardens

This 185-acre Botanical Gardens is home to more than 22,000 species of flora and boasts such features as the Japanese Zen Garden and the Chinese Garden. There is also a colorful rose garden and a stunning alpine garden. You can easily tour Parc Maisonneuve’s crown jewel; tickets are only about 15 bucks.

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA)

The most distinguished museum in all of Montreal, MMFA boasts works from famed artists such as Rembrandt, El Greco, Renoir, Cézanne and Picasso. It is certainly worth spending a few hours (or even a whole day) at Montreal’s art staple, meandering through exhibits that showcase 18th-century English porcelain, artifacts from World War I and furniture designed by Frank Gehry.

Ottawa

Parliament Hill

The center of downtown Ottawa, Parliament Hill is characterized by three neo-Gothic structures- the East, West and Center Blocks that comprise Canadian government (Ottawa is the capital of Canada, for those who didn’t know). But the area isn’t all business all the time, it offers free guided tours, concerts, cultural exhibitions and even a seasonal after-hours sound and light show. Visitors are free to tour the East and Center Blocks, as well as the Library of Parliament and the Supreme Court of Canada.

The Rideau Canal

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal is a picturesque 125-mile waterway and was originally constructed between 1826 and 1832. Nowadays, it boasts sunbathers and boaters when the weather is warm and turns into an ice skating rink in the winter. The Rideau Canal is a can’t-miss and a good spot to stop on your way to Parliament Hill, as it’s right nearby.

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Mumbai (formerly Bombay)

Taj Mahal Palace Hotel

Built in 1903 by the Parsi industrialist JN Tata, the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel is the second most photographed monument in India (second only to its mausoleum namesake). The hotel is more than just a beautiful piece of architecture, it’s a pinnacle of Indian history- it was the first hotel in India to hire women, the first to have electricity and it also housed freedom-fighters for free during the struggle for independence. It was the site of more turmoil when it was targeted during the 2008 terrorist attacks and dozens were killed inside its walls. It reopened fully on Independence Day of 2010.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya

Having fun at Mumbai’s biggest and arguably, best museum is much easier than pronouncing its name. You don’t even have to step inside to start learning: the facade is a mixture of Islamic, Hindu and British architecture, erected by architect George Wittet (who also designed the Gateway of India). Inside, you can find Hindu and Buddhist sculptures, terracotta figurines from the Indus Valley, miniature Indian paintings and historical weaponry. For quick overview of the museum the new 20-minute Mumbai Experience is ideal.  The foreigner rate is ₹50 and the attraction is shown in English five times per day.

Kolkata (also known as Calcutta)

The Motherhouse

The famed and highly esteemed Mother Teresa (now officially canonized as a saint) did a lot of her mission work in the city of Kolkata. Her former home and charity (Missionaries of Charity) in Kolkata is now known as the Motherhouse and is a popular tourist attraction for those seeking a spiritual, meaningful experience. Inside the mission is Mother Teresa’s tomb, where you can pay respects, a small museum that showcases her belongings and a display of her room, where you can see where she actually sat at her desk, wrote letters, prayed and lived. The experience is completely free, just be cognizant of how busy the attraction often is.

Kochi (also known as Cochin)

Pardesi Synagogue

This attraction is especially appealing for Jewish tourists, but its beauty and history make it a desirable place to visit for anyone. Originally built in 1568, the synagogue was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1662, and rebuilt two years later when the Dutch occupied Kochi. Illuminated by Belgian chandeliers and colored-glass lamps, the attraction features a gold pulpit and an ornate clock tower.

Delhi

Taj Mahal

Undeniably the most visited attraction in all of India is the Taj Mahal. Commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, to house the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal (his favorite wife), the Taj Mahal is worth all the praise and fame. The mausoleum is arguably the best example of Mughal architecture, which combines Indian, Persian and Islamic influences. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983, the Taj Mahal is a can’t-miss for anyone planning a trip to India.

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Spain

La Sagrada Familia (Barcelona)

Ranked as the number one thing to do in Spain on TripAdvisor, La Sagrada Familia is a quintessentially Spanish tourist attraction. With construction beginning in 1882 (and seemingly never ending), the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia is a monumental church devoted to the Holy Family (Jesus, Mary and Joseph). Its early construction was executed by architect Francisco de Paula del Villar, but famous Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi was commissioned to continue the project in 1883. Pope Benedict XVI consecrated the site as a minor basilica in 2010. But the story of La Sagrada Familia is not yet finished- it won’t be fully completed until 2026 – on the 100th anniversary of Gaudis death. The Sagrada Familia will have taken 144 years to complete. The basilica is funded by the people and subsequently, tickets are kind of pricy, but totally worth it to see Spain’s number one attraction.

Alhambra (Granada)

Originally constructed as a small fortress in AD 889 on the remains of Roman fortifications, Alhambra was  renovated and rebuilt in the mid-13th century by the Moorish emir Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar. Today, it is a pinnacle of Moor culture and one of the most popular destinations in all of Spain. The giant fortress will take a whole day to explore, but it’s well worth it for the picturesque sights and rich history. The price for entry is around 13 euros, while it is nine euros for children. Alhambra is only fully open March through October, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Ireland

The Ring of Kerry (County Kerry)

This drive showcases some of the most picturesque, quintessentially irish views in the whole country. It is consistently rated as the number one spot not to miss in Ireland, both because of its stunning scenery and also all of the attractions it encompasses. These sites include: Gap of Dunloe, Bog Village, Rossbeigh Beach, Cahersiveen Heritage Centre, Derrynane House, Skellig Experience, Staigue Fort, Kenmare Lace, Molls Gap, Ladies View, Torc Waterfall, Muckross House, The Blue Pool, Ross Castle, Ogham Stones, St Mary’s Cathedral, Muckross Abbey, Franciscan Friary, Kellegy Church, O’Connell Memorial Church, Sneem Church and Cemetery, Skellig Michael, Beehive Cells and the Stone Pillars.

Scotland

Edinburgh Castle (Edinburgh)

It should come as no surprise that Edinburgh Castle is rated as the number one tourist attraction in Scotland. The castle has a rich history: the oldest part, St. Margaret’s Chapel, dates from the 12th century, the Great Hall was erected by James IV around 1510, the Half Moon Battery was created by the Regent Morton in the late 16th century, and the Scottish National War Memorial was constructed after World War I. An adult ticket is 17 euros; most say this is fair for the once-in-a-lifetime chance to visit the castle.

England

There are so many things to do in England, so we thought we would suggest a few different attractions to put on your list. Must-sees include: the British Museum, the National Gallery, the Tower of London, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Oxford University. Don’t worry, the Israel Tour’s Ireland, Scotland and England Tour allots a large chunk of time to England, to experience all the quintessential sights.

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Estonia

Kuressaare Castle:

Built in the 14th century, with some elements added between the 15th and 18th centuries, Kuressaare Castle is a must-see for anyone visiting Estonia. Located on Saaremaa Island, the Castle was originally built as both an administrative/political center and a stronghold in times of attack. The grounds are completely open to the public, but to see all the features, you’ll need to buy a ticket to the Saaremaa Museum. The mood surrounding the castle is a mixture of brevity and sobriety: outdoor concerts are held on the grounds but there are also several memorials dedicated to the suffering experienced under Nazi and Soviet occupation.

Town Hall Square:

This popular square in Tallinn, called “Raekoja Plats” by locals, is quintessentially Estonian and looks like something straight out of Epcot. Flanked on one side by a gothic-style town hall building and ringed by colorful 15th to 17th century edifices on the other, this square boasts cozy outdoor cafes and beer gardens. During the holiday season, a large christmas tree stands in the middle of the square, reminiscent of the first christmas tree, a tradition Lithuania and Latvia compete over supposedly initiating.

Latvia

Old Town Riga:

Old Town Riga is full of treasures, easily accessible on an afternoon stroll. Some of the most picturesque spots include: Livu Square (beer gardens galore), Dome Square (a stone’s throw from parliament and the president’s palace) and the Town Hall Square, where the Occupation Museum, a somber but moving informational experience, is located. Also, be sure to check out the Latvian Freedom Monument. Erected in 1935, it features Milda, the symbolic feminine Latvian character.

Jurmala:

A picturesque beach town situated right on the Baltic Sea, Jurmala is a great place to relax, beach it up, breathe in ridiculously fresh air, hit the spa and witness eclectic architecture. A major attraction is Dzintari Concert Hall, which hosts impressive performers all year long.

Lithuania

Old Town Vilnius:

In typical Baltic fashion, Vilnius seems like something straight out of a fairytale. Featuring beautiful architecture and old-fashioned squares, some of the top sights in Vilnius are: Gediminas’ Tower, the Gate of Dawn, the Vilnius Cathedral, the Church of St. Anne and the Museum of Genocide Victims.

Trakai Island Castle: Located on Trakai Island in Lake Galvé, Trakai Island Castle was created by Kęstutis, a medieval ruler and completed around 1409. The castle and its surroundings incredibly picturesque, so expect a lot of tourists. 

If any of the attractions above struck your fancy, make sure to check out Israel Tour’s Baltic Jewish Heritage Tour, a nine day adventure through Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

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Old Israel

Israel is unique for being where many key cultures, events, and worldviews made birth. Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all originated in the country. Because of this, there are plenty of locations that feature religious, cultural, and historical significance. Some of the ones you can visit on various tours of Israel are the Mount of Olives, Jaffa (the Old city), the Wailing Wall, and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Many of these sites can be seen on our classic tours of Israel, although they are also touched upon on our other, Religion-centric tours. There are plenty of other culturally/historically significant locations that offer timeless appeal. Take for instance the Dead Sea; the lowest point on Earth that offers a uniquely powerful relaxation experience. More information on the religious and historical significance of Israel can be found at its various museums. Needless to say, there is plenty to learn from such a historically important area.

Modern Israel

But there are plenty of other sites that pertain more to the recent history of the country. Tel Aviv, for instance, is a place of remarkable culture. It is the New York City of Jerusalem. It is filled with opportunities for leisure, shopping, and entertainment on your trips to Israel. A historically significant location to see is Independence Hall, the site of where the State of Israel was officially declared. A hard, yet powerful location to visit is Yad Vashem, the memorial site for victims of the Holocaust. You will also be able to witness the lives of the people of Tel Aviv. You will have the chance to see how each culture gives the city such a unique personality.

Powerful Experience

Ultimately, Israel contains a significance that is multi-dimensional. There are experiences that can profoundly impact your life. Whether or not you are curious about its current developments, or the footprints it carries from the past, you certainly have a lot to gain from trips to Israel. If you have any more questions about our tours of Israel, please feel free to contact us today. We provide plenty of travel options in our weekly tours.

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