Haifa Port Shore Excursion: Nazareth & Sea of Galilee Tour

Summary

Nazareth and Galilee Day Tour for Cruise Passengers

You’ll walk ancient streets in Nazareth, visit legendary churches overlooking Galilee, taste local food near Capernaum, and maybe dip your toes—or more—into the River Jordan before heading back to your ship.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air at Haifa Port felt a bit salty—maybe it was the sea breeze or just my nerves kicking in as we met our guide, Avi. He waved us over by the terminal exit, holding a sign with our ship’s name. After quick hellos, we hopped into a cool minibus (thank goodness for AC; even in spring, Haifa can get sticky). The drive out of the city gave us a peek at everyday life—kids in uniforms waiting for school buses, little bakeries opening up along the road.

Our first stop was Nazareth. I’d read about it before, but walking through those narrow lanes was something else. We headed straight to the Church of the Annunciation. Inside, sunlight filtered through colored glass onto stone floors worn smooth by centuries of footsteps. Avi pointed out mosaics sent from Christian communities all over the world—Japan’s stood out with its delicate blues. Downstairs, we ducked into the grottos beneath St. Joseph’s Church. It smelled faintly musty down there; Avi explained these caves might’ve been where Mary and Joseph lived with young Jesus.

We passed Mary’s Well (locals still fill water bottles here) and rolled on through Kfar Kanna—Cana—where wedding shops line the street in a nod to that famous miracle. The Mount of Beatitudes came next. There’s this hush up there, broken only by birds and the occasional group singing hymns outside the church built in the 1930s by Antonio Barhuzzi. The view over Lake Kinneret (Sea of Galilee) is wide open—you can see fishing boats bobbing if you squint.

Tabgha was busy with visitors when we arrived at the Church of the Multiplication. The floor’s covered in ancient mosaics; Avi showed us the one with two fish and a basket—simple but powerful. Lunch was at a roadside spot near Capernaum—nothing fancy, just grilled fish and fresh pita with tahini. In Capernaum itself, we wandered among old basalt ruins and peered into what’s believed to be Peter’s house under an octagonal modern church.

The last stop was Yardenit on the River Jordan—a popular baptism spot for travelers from everywhere. Some folks changed into white robes and waded in; others just watched quietly from shaded benches along the bank. If you’re thinking about it, bring a towel—the water’s chilly even on hot days! We made it back to Haifa port just as evening settled in, tired but kind of awestruck by how much history fits into one day here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Nazareth and Galilee Highlights

• Visit Church of the Annunciation
• Explore Nazareth town
• Tour grotto under St. Joseph’s Church
• Visit Mount of Beatitudes Church
• View Sea of Galilee from Mount of Beatitudes
• Tour Church of the Multiplication in Tabgha
• Visit Kfar Nachum (Capernaum) sites
• Baptismal site visit at Yardenit

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with mobility challenges due to uneven ground and steps at several sites.

Can I get baptized at Yardenit during this tour?

If time allows at Yardenit and you’re interested, you can participate in a baptism ceremony—just let your guide know early on.

What should I wear for visiting churches?

It’s best to dress modestly: shoulders covered and knees too. Light layers work well since some sites are cooler inside.

Is lunch included?

Lunch isn’t included but there will be a stop at a local restaurant near Capernaum where you can buy food.

What’s included

Your full-day experience covers all entry fees and taxes plus round-trip transport from Haifa port in an air-conditioned vehicle. A knowledgeable guide stays with you throughout—just bring comfortable shoes and curiosity!