How to Tour Israel’s Christian Holy Sites

Israel is a unique and spiritual destination for visitors of all faiths. For Christians, a visit to Israel is an opportunity to tour the places where Jesus Christ lived and preached, as well as the modern Christian history scattered throughout the region. Our specially curated Holy Land tours offer the convenience of pre-arranged entrance fees for smooth, hassle-free travel. An Israel Christian tour will also take you to places you may have yet to learn about in Israel and its neighboring countries, providing a comprehensive and enriching experience. Keep reading to find out what the most important Holy sites are for Christians in Israel, and the best ways to visit them.

Walk through the Christian Quarter, Jerusalem

Via Dolorosa 3 Day Christian Holy Land Package Tour

As you walk through the streets of the Christian Quarter in Jerusalem’s Old City, you’ll be struck by the sense of the history and spiritual significance of the ancient city. The Christian Quarter is home to some of the most significant Christian sites in the world. While Israel is home to several important churches, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, considered the location where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected, and The Via Dolorosa, are the holiest sites of all. On this street, walk the same route Jesus took to his crucifixion. Here’s how to take a walk through thousands of years of Christian history in one day:

Get Baptized in the Jordan River

jordan river baptism christian israel

If you’re planning a Christian tour of Israel, you must visit Jericho and the Qasr el Yahud baptism site. Located near Bethlehem, this revered spot is one of the world’s most important Christian pilgrimage destinations. Visitors can take a once-in-a-lifetime experience of being baptized in the Jordan River. Jericho is also home to other important sites. You can take a cable car up to Mount Temptations, where you’ll see breathtaking views of the oldest city in the world and the St.George Monastery, founded in 480 CE. Check out these options to visit Jericho:

Visit the Saint Catherine’s Monastery, Egypt

10 Day Highlights of Israel, Jordan and Egypt Tour Package_5

The Saint Catherine’s Monastery is a true gem located in the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, near the site where the Burning Bush is believed to have appeared to Moses. Built-in the 6th century by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, the monastery is the oldest sitting monastery, home to a community of monks today. Visitors can tour the famous skull room and olive grove and learn about the area’s spiritual significance. Step back in time and walk in the footsteps of all the monks who have lived there for centuries: 

The Birthplace of Jesus Christ, Bethlehem 

bethlehem half day tour christian israel

There’s no better place to experience the history and spirituality of Christianity than Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus. This small town in the Jordan Valley is also home to sacred Christian sites like the Church of the Nativity and the Church of St. Catherine, which hosts many religious relics and artifacts. Once there, you’ll also enjoy the charming streets lined with local shops, markets, and restaurants. With just a short drive from Jerusalem, Bethlehem is a must-visit destination on any trip to the Holy Land. Here’s how to see this incredible place:

The Jesus Boat, Sea of the Galilee

Israel Rundreise – 8 Tage Geschichte, Kultur und Begegnungen 8

If you wish to uncover the history of Jesus and his disciples and how they lived, the Sea of Galilee is your destination. The Kineret, the Hebrew name for the tranquil sea, is where Jesus performed several of his miracles, mentioned in the New Testament. Christian tourists particularly like to visit the “Jesus Boat,” a fishing boat discovered 40 years ago that dates back to the time of Jesus and his disciples, many of who were fishermen. Other important sites in the region include Capernaum, a village where Jesus is believed to have preached and performed miracles, and the Mount of Beatitudes, where Jesus delivered his famous teachings on love, compassion, and forgiveness.

From Israel to Rome: A Christian Culture and History Tour 

Piazza Navona_Israel and Rome 11 Day Christian Package Tour

Israel and Rome are intertwined by their shared Christian culture and history, making them the perfect destinations for a spiritual and cultural journey. The Israel and Rome 11-Day Christian Package Tour allows travelers to trace the footsteps of the early Christians and learn about the birth and development of the faith. Visitors will have the chance to see top Holy Christian sites in Israel as well as see ancient marvels in Rome like the Colosseum and the Vatican. Expert guides will provide historical and religious context at each stop, making this tour a truly immersive and enlightening experience. Read more about our package tours of Israel and Rome:

Christian tours of Israel 

These Christian sites are just a small sampling of Israel’s many cultural and religious sites. To truly experience all Israel has to offer, consider joining a customized Israel Christian Tour that takes you to various locations and allows you to spend a time exploring the fascinating history of Christianity in the country it was founded. Whether you are a Christian pilgrim seeking or simply someone interested in learning more about the history and culture of the region, a tour of Israel is sure to be a memorable experience. 

Here are our most recommended Israel Christian package tours: