Nazareth & Galilee: Private Tour with Mount Tabor Views

Summary

Walk ancient streets in Nazareth see Galilee’s shores feel history at Yardenit

You’ll walk through Nazareth’s winding lanes, stand atop Mount Tabor with sweeping valley views, touch Galilee’s waters near Magdala, and pause by the Jordan River at Yardenit. With a local guide sharing stories and hotel pickup included, you’ll feel both welcome and quietly moved by these places’ living history.

What’s the experience like?

"You hear that bell?" our guide Avi asked as we stepped into the old streets of Nazareth. I did — it echoed off stone walls, mixing with the smell of fresh bread from a bakery I never found. The Church of the Annunciation was busier than I expected, but Avi found us a quiet corner and pointed out faded mosaics. He told us stories about Mary that I’d never heard in Sunday school — something about how locals still bring flowers here every week. It felt less like a museum and more like someone’s home, honestly.

The drive up Mount Tabor was twisty — my ears popped halfway up, and Avi joked that even locals get dizzy sometimes. At the top, the air was cooler and you could see the whole Jezreel Valley spread out below. The Church of the Transfiguration looked almost modern on the outside but inside it was dim and golden, with sunlight sneaking through high windows. There was this one moment where everything went quiet except for birds outside; I didn’t expect to feel so still there.

We followed the road north to the Sea of Galilee. The water had this odd silvery color under the afternoon clouds. We stopped at Capernaum — ruins everywhere, fishermen’s houses turned to stone outlines. Avi waved at an old man selling pomegranates near Magdala (I bought one; juice all over my hands). He told us about Mary Magdalene growing up here, which made me look at the place differently — like these stones actually mattered to someone once.

I’m not religious but standing at Yardenit on the Jordan River felt strangely peaceful. Some people were singing quietly as they changed into white robes for baptism; others just watched from under eucalyptus trees. The river smelled green and earthy, if that makes sense. On the way back, Avi asked what surprised me most — honestly? Probably how human everything felt, not just ancient or holy but lived-in. I still think about that view from Mount Tabor sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tour of Nazareth and Galilee sites

• Meet guide and start tour
• Explore Nazareth city
• Visit Church of the Annunciation
• Ascend Mount Tabor
• Visit Church of the Transfiguration
• Visit Sea of Galilee area
• See Mount of Beatitudes
• Visit Capernaum village
• Visit Church of the Multiplication
• Explore Magdala site
• Visit Yardenit Jordan River baptismal site
• Visit Duc In Altum center
• Return to pickup point

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this private tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included from Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Herzliya or Netanya.

What sites are visited on this day trip from Tel Aviv?

The tour visits Nazareth (Church of the Annunciation), Mount Tabor (Church of the Transfiguration), Sea of Galilee area including Capernaum and Magdala, plus Yardenit on the Jordan River.

Can I be baptized at Yardenit during this tour?

Yes, you can choose to be baptized at Yardenit; special white robes are required and available onsite.

How long does it take to reach Nazareth from Tel Aviv?

The drive from Tel Aviv to Nazareth typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.

Are entrance fees included in this private tour?

Yes, all entrance fees for sites listed in the itinerary are included in your booking.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No lunch is included; however there are stops where you can purchase food along the way.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it is suitable for all physical fitness levels though comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Who leads this day trip to Nazareth & Sea of Galilee?

A government-licensed Israeli guide leads your private tour throughout the day.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from your chosen location in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Herzliya or Netanya; travel in an air-conditioned vehicle; entry fees for all sites on the itinerary; guidance from a licensed Israeli guide throughout; and return transfer back to your starting point after exploring these historic places together.