Golan Heights: Day tour from Tel Aviv with guide & pickup

Summary

Stories from the Golan Heights: ancient villages, wild hills, and quiet moments

You’ll travel from Tel Aviv to the Golan Heights with a local guide, stopping at Yardenit by the Jordan River and exploring ancient Katzrin village. Walk through centuries-old synagogues, visit Mount Bental’s summit for sweeping views (and maybe some windblown hair), and experience moments you’ll remember long after returning home.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to start the day trying to pronounce “Yardenit” before coffee — our guide Avi grinned and said I was close enough. We’d barely left Tel Aviv when the landscape started shifting: city blocks giving way to olive groves, then suddenly that wide shimmer of the Sea of Galilee. The bus windows fogged up a little from everyone’s breath as we craned for photos. There’s something about seeing those places you’ve only read about — it hits different in person.

We stopped at Katzrin, which Avi called “the capital of the Golan Heights,” though it felt more like a sleepy village than any capital I know. Walking through the old stones of the synagogue, I ran my hand over grooves worn smooth by centuries (and probably a thousand hands before mine). The air smelled faintly of thyme and dust. At one point, an older man waved us over to watch him shape clay pots — he didn’t speak much English but his smile did most of the talking. I think that’s what stuck with me most from this part: how history here isn’t just in museums, it’s still breathing.

The drive up Mount Bental was all switchbacks and nervous laughter (I’m not great with heights), but wow — when we stepped out at the top, wind whipping around us, you could see Syria in the distance. Avi pointed out old Syrian bunkers half-swallowed by wildflowers. It was strangely peaceful up there; just wind and distant cowbells echoing off volcanic rock. Someone asked about the border and Avi answered quietly — not dramatic or scary, just honest.

I keep thinking about that view from Mount Bental — how small everything looked below, how big it felt to stand there with strangers who suddenly felt like friends. If you’re looking for a Golan Heights day trip from Tel Aviv that’s more than just ticking boxes, this is it. Just don’t forget water and maybe a hat; that sun sneaks up on you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Golan Heights Day Trip Highlights

• Travel through the Galilee
• Travel through the Jordan Valley
• Pass by the Sea of Galilee
• Visit ancient synagogue and village in Katzrin
• Visit the Golan Antiquities Museum
• Visit Mount Bental and explore Syrian bunkers

Top questions

How long does the Golan Heights day tour from Tel Aviv take?

This is a full-day tour departing in the morning and returning in the evening.

Is hotel pickup included on this Golan Heights tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

What sites do we visit during the day trip?

You’ll stop at Yardenit baptismal site, Katzrin village and synagogue, Golan Antiquities Museum, and Mount Bental.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is not included; bring snacks or buy food during stops.

Are entrance fees covered?

Yes, all entrance fees are included in your tour price.

Is this tour suitable for young children?

No, it’s not suitable for children under 4 years old.

What should I bring on this Golan Heights day trip?

Bring water, comfortable shoes, sun protection like a hat or sunscreen.

Will there be an expert guide during the tour?

Yes, you’ll have a professional local guide throughout your journey.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Tel Aviv, all entry fees for sites like Katzrin and Mount Bental, an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort along winding roads, plus guidance from a knowledgeable local who brings each stop to life before heading back in the evening.