Christmas & New Year Tours & Trips in Israel
Around Nazareth, the old lanes twist between stone houses and small churches. The Fauzi Azar Mansion sits in the centre of the old quarter, and the path toward Cana passes through fields and low hills. Capernaum rests beside the Sea of Galilee, tied to many familiar stories. The area feels calm and reflective, especially at that time of year.
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The tour was excellent. Steve, from the tour company, was very helpful setting up our tour. Our guide Chava Haugen did an outstanding job. She explained everything very thoroughly. She explained the sites we visited from both a biblical and historical perspective.
Highlights of Israel - 8 daysHad a fantastic tour. Our guides were really fantastic and knew their stuff. Bein Hareim tours were really flexible and facilitated a change we asked for. Would definitely recommend.
Mini Jewish Tour Package, 6 DayWell worth the money. I'd recommend it to friends and family.
Classical Israel Tour Package, 7 Days
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10 best Christmas & New Year Israel tour packages
Compiled by
NinaIsrael travel expert at TourRadar
- Highlights of Israel - 8 days
- Mini Jewish Tour Package, 6 Day
- Classical Israel Tour Package, 7 Days
- Christian Jerusalem, 3 days
- Jewish Tour, 3 Days
- Classical Israel Tour Package, 4 Days
- Nazareth, Caesarea and Golan, 3 Days
- Jewish Israel Tour Package, 4 Days
- Jewish Israel Tour Package, 8 Days
- Highlights of Israel and Jordan - 11 days
Highlights of Israel - 8 days
“The tour was as expected with all sites visited and enjoyed by all participants.”
Sinval, traveled in December
Manger Square in Bethlehem and Jerusalem's holy sites capture the season's essence. The Church of Nativity, Ein Karem's festive atmosphere, and holiday markets in Mahane Yehuda create memorable moments. Special Christmas dinners in Tiberias complement seasonal celebrations across Israel's significant religious sites.
Duration 8 days Destinations Tel Aviv, Masada National Park, Dead Sea, Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Beit She’an, Tiberias, Galilee, Golan Heights, NazarethSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Consolidated Tour Operators From
- US$1,595
Mini Jewish Tour Package, 6 Day
“Had a fantastic tour. Bein Hareim tours were really flexible and facilitated a change we asked for.”
Liesl, traveled in March
Celebrate the holiday season exploring Israel's most sacred sites, from Jerusalem's Old City to Masada's ancient fortress. This 6-day journey combines Christmas atmosphere with Jewish heritage, featuring stays in Tourist to Luxury Class hotels and a special kibbutz overnight. Perfect for history lovers aged 4-85, with daily hotel breakfasts included.
Duration 6 days Destinations Jerusalem, Masada National Park, Dead Sea, Galilee, Golan Heights, Caesarea, Acre, Rosh Hanikra Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Bein Harim Tourism Services From
- US$1,344
Classical Israel Tour Package, 7 Days
“Great value for money. Very knowledgeable and professional guides.”
Holiday magic fills Jerusalem's Old City with Christmas celebrations, while Nazareth's Church of Annunciation glows with seasonal spirit. Bethlehem's religious sites welcome pilgrims before New Year celebrations at the Dead Sea. Winter accommodations and professional guides included.
Duration 7 days Destinations Tel Aviv, Nazareth, Capernaum, Tiberias, Caesarea, Haifa, Acre, Rosh Hanikra, Golan Heights, JerusalemSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Bein Harim Tourism Services From
- US$1,429
Bethlehem's Manger Square and Church of Nativity radiate during December departures. Jerusalem's festively lit Old City and sacred Christian sites, including Garden of Gethsemane, create magical moments. Two nights' accommodation captures the special holiday atmosphere.
Duration 3 days Destinations Jerusalem, Mount of Olives, Dead Sea, Masada National Park Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Bein Harim Tourism Services From
- US$644
Jewish Tour, 3 Days
“We enjoyed the guides. They were knowledgeable of the sites we visited and would recommend the company.”
Tom, traveled in February
Jerusalem's sacred sites and Masada's ancient fortress sparkle in winter light. Highlights include Dead Sea floating, Rosh HaNikra's illuminated grottos, and Acre's Crusader halls. December accommodations in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem include daily breakfast.
Duration 3 days Destinations Tel Aviv, Caesarea, Haifa, Acre, Rosh Hanikra, Jerusalem, Masada National Park, Dead Sea Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Bein Harim Tourism Services From
- US$614
Classical Israel Tour Package, 4 Days
“We visited so many amazing places to remember forever, and we are very happy on having chosen this tour.”
Tiago, traveled in June
Israel's festive season shines at Nazareth's Church of Annunciation and Jerusalem's sacred sites. Holiday-themed tours feature Western Wall prayers and Bethlehem experiences. Winter rates around $800 include hotel stays and entrance fees to all religious and historical landmarks.
Duration 4 days Destinations Tel Aviv, Caesarea, Haifa, Rosh Hanikra, Acre, Megido, Mount Precipice, Nazareth, Kafar Kanna, GalileeSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Bein Harim Tourism Services From
- US$829
Nazareth, Caesarea and Golan, 3 Days
“The accommodation was nice - a simple, modern and clean hotel with a nice breakfast.”
Scott, traveled in April
Nazareth's Church of Annunciation glows during December festivities. Biblical sites include Capernaum and the Jordan River baptismal site at Yardenit. Winter tours offer comfortable kibbutz lodging and breakfast included.
Duration 3 days Destinations Tel Aviv, Caesarea, Haifa, Rosh Hanikra, Acre, Nazareth, Capernaum, Tiberias, Yardenit, Golan Heights Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Bein Harim Tourism Services From
- US$579
What our customers ask about Christmas & New Year Tours & Trips in Israel
What special Christmas activities are included in Israel tours during the holiday season?
December tours in Israel center around key religious and cultural events. Visitors can attend midnight mass at Bethlehem's Church of the Nativity and join Christmas Eve gatherings in Jerusalem's Old City. The holiday schedule includes services at the Church of Holy Sepulchre. Several hotels like the Crowne Plaza Jerusalem and Dan Panorama put on holiday dinners and New Year's events. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "The Christmas Eve experience in Bethlehem was magical and unforgettable with the whole city lit up in celebration."
What is the weather like in Israel during Christmas and New Year?
Winter brings mild temperatures to Israel. Jerusalem sees temperatures between 10-15°C (50-59°F) with some rainy days while Tel Aviv stays warmer at 15-20°C (59-68°F). The Dead Sea area maintains pleasant conditions around 20-25°C (68-77°F). Evening temperatures drop enough to need warm clothing particularly in Jerusalem. Most hotels including the David Citadel provide good heating for winter visitors.
Which cities offer the best Christmas and New Year celebrations in Israel?
The main holiday celebrations take place in Jerusalem and Bethlehem while Tel Aviv leads the New Year's festivities. Jerusalem's YMCA holds its annual Christmas tree lighting which draws locals and tourists. Tel Aviv's Dan Panorama hotel hosts New Year's parties. Nazareth adds local character with holiday markets throughout December. One TourRadar traveler shared: "The contrast between Jerusalem's spiritual Christmas celebrations and Tel Aviv's modern New Year parties made for an incredible holiday experience."
How much does a Christmas & New Year tour in Israel typically cost?
An 8-10 day holiday tour costs between USD 2500-3500 per person. This covers stays at quality hotels like the Dan Panorama guided tours Christmas Eve dinner in Bethlehem and New Year's events. Higher-end options start at USD 4000. Border crossing fees (about USD 65) and optional activities are extra.
What are the accommodation options during the Christmas & New Year period?
Hotels range from upscale choices like the Carlton Tel Aviv and American Colony Jerusalem to solid mid-range options such as the Prima Galilee and Leonardo Jerusalem. Prima hotels decorate for the season and serve holiday meals. The American Colony puts on a New Year's gala. One TourRadar traveler mentioned: "The Christmas atmosphere at the American Colony Hotel was exceptional with beautiful decorations and special holiday menus."
Are there special religious services available during Christmas in Israel?
Religious services run throughout the season. Key events include midnight mass at Bethlehem's Church of Nativity Christmas services at Jerusalem's Church of Holy Sepulchre and various denominational gatherings. Notre Dame Center Jerusalem provides Catholic masses in several languages. Tour companies like Click Tours help with transportation. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The midnight mass in Bethlehem was a deeply moving experience well-organized by our tour company."