Excursion Nazareth & sea of galilee tour at Haifa

Explore the stunning scenery and historic sites where it is believed Jesus lived, preached, and performed his miracles during this captivating, full-day tour of Nazareth.

Basilica of the Annunciation

Depart the pier in Haifa via coach for approximately one hour drive to Nazareth, the birthplace of Jesus.

Upon arrival in Nazareth, visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, one of Christendom's most revered shrines and the largest church in the Middle East. The Basilica was built on the same site where the Archangel Gabriel revealed to Mary that she would be the mother of the Messiah. Sites to be seen here include the altar and a remarkable 170-foot (52.3-metre)-high cupola that rises high above the upper church. During your guided visit inside the Basilica, see magnificent mosaics, ceramic reliefs, and other superb works of art from around the world.

Church of Joseph

Your next stop is the Church of Joseph which was built over the chambers that once housed Joseph's carpentry shop.

The Bazaar and Mary's Well

From here, take a stroll through the bazaar and past Mary's Well, located in the Greek Orthodox Church, at the site of an ancient underground spring where it is believed Jesus and his mother came to draw water.

Cana and the Sea of Galilee, Lunch

Next, re-board your coach for the drive through Cana, the place where Jesus performed his first miracle of turning water into wine. Upon arrival, proceed for a buffet lunch at a hotel by the Sea of Galilee. After lunch, a visit is made to the Mount of Beatitudes, the site where Jesus preached the famous Sermon on the Mount, before proceeding to Capernaum. Located on the beautiful shores of the Sea of Galilee, Capernaum was considered to be the centre of Jesus' ministry whilst he was living in this area. Your visit includes a look at the ruins of an ancient synagogue.

Yardenit Baptismal Site

Following your visit, re-board your coach for the drive along the panoramic seashore to the Yardenit baptismal site where the Jordan River separates from the Sea of Galilee. Pilgrims from around the world come here to perform baptismal ceremonies in this naturally scenic and symbolic setting.

After a brief shopping stop, your tour concludes with a return drive to the pier in Haifa. En route, take in scenic vistas of Mount Tabor, the traditional site of the transfiguration where Jesus appeared to his disciples in radiant light whilst speaking with Moses and Elijah.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Basilica of the Annunciation, Church of Joseph, Bazaar, Mary's Well, Cana, Capernaum, Sea of Galilee, Yardenit Baptismal Site

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking (approximately 1.3 miles - 2 km), at times on inclines, with some steps to negotiate in the churches. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are encouraged to wear seasonal clothing with flat, comfortable walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a camera from the ship. Proper attire is required during visits to religious sites; shorts and sleeveless shirts are not permitted. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. The driving time between the pier and Nazareth is approximately 1 hour in each direction. Please be advised that the itinerary and duration of the tour might be affected by traffic. The tour sequence may vary.