11 day itinerary for Jerusalem

Itinerary

An 11-day pilgrimage in and around Jerusalem sounds like a wonderful journey filled with spiritual enrichment and exploration of biblical history. Here’s a suggested itinerary that balances visits to significant Christian sites, moments of reflection, and some time to soak in the local culture. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Jerusalem

• Morning: Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport. Transfer to your accommodation in Jerusalem.
• Afternoon: Settle in and enjoy a welcome lunch at a local restaurant.
• Evening: Take a leisurely stroll around the Old City. Visit the Western Wall and soak in the atmosphere.
• Dinner: Group dinner at a local eatery, discussing the journey ahead.

## Day 2: Mount of Olives & Gethsemane

• Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Mount of Olives. Enjoy panoramic views of the Old City and visit the Chapel of Ascension.
• Afternoon: Head to the Garden of Gethsemane. Reflect and pray at the Church of All Nations.
• Evening: Return to your accommodation for dinner. Optional evening prayer service.

## Day 3: Old City Exploration

• Morning: Visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the site of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. Spend time in prayer and reflection.
• Afternoon: Walk the Via Dolorosa, stopping at the Stations of the Cross. Visit St. Anne’s Church and the Pool of Bethesda.
• Evening: Dinner in the Old City, followed by a group discussion about the day’s experiences.

## Day 4: Bethlehem

• Morning: Take a short trip to Bethlehem. Visit the Church of the Nativity, the birthplace of Jesus.
• Afternoon: Explore the Shepherds' Fields and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
• Evening: Return to Jerusalem. Evening prayer service at your accommodation.

## Day 5: Mount Zion & Upper Room

• Morning: Visit Mount Zion. Explore the Upper Room (Cenacle) and the Tomb of King David.
• Afternoon: Visit the Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu, commemorating Peter’s denial of Jesus.
• Evening: Dinner and reflection on the significance of the day.

## Day 6: Dead Sea & Qumran

• Morning: Depart for the Dead Sea. Enjoy a float in the mineral-rich waters.
• Afternoon: Visit Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Reflect on the historical significance.
• Evening: Return to Jerusalem for dinner and rest.

## Day 7: Jericho & Mount Temptation

• Morning: Visit Jericho, one of the oldest cities in the world. Explore the archaeological sites.
• Afternoon: Take a cable car up to Mount Temptation. Enjoy the views and reflect on Jesus’ temptation.
• Evening: Return to Jerusalem for dinner and evening prayers.

## Day 8: Ein Karem & Yad Vashem

• Morning: Visit Ein Karem, the birthplace of John the Baptist. Explore the Church of St. John the Baptist.
• Afternoon: Visit Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial. Reflect on the importance of remembrance.
• Evening: Dinner and group discussion about the day’s experiences.

## Day 9: Nazareth & Sea of Galilee

• Morning: Depart for Nazareth. Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation.
• Afternoon: Continue to the Sea of Galilee. Take a boat ride and visit Capernaum and the Mount of Beatitudes.
• Evening: Dinner by the Sea of Galilee, sharing reflections on Jesus’ ministry.

## Day 10: Caesarea & Return to Jerusalem

• Morning: Visit Caesarea Maritima, exploring the ancient Roman ruins and the aqueduct.
• Afternoon: Return to Jerusalem. Free time for shopping or exploring local markets.
• Evening: Farewell dinner, sharing highlights and memories from the pilgrimage.

## Day 11: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping or a visit to a local church for morning service.
• Afternoon: Transfer to Ben Gurion Airport for your departure flight.

This itinerary is designed to provide a deep spiritual experience while allowing time for reflection and fellowship. Each day is packed with significant sites, but also includes moments to relax and absorb the beauty of the Holy Land. Enjoy your pilgrimage!