Caesarea: Day Trips and Tours from Jerusalem

Caesarea was one of the great Roman capitals, with its legacy remaining strong until well into the 13th century. Today, visitors come to admire the grandiose ruins that act as a gateway to ancient times.

The national park’s idyllic setting on the Mediterranean coast of Israel adds to the wonder of it all and a day trip to Caesarea from Jerusalem delivers history and natural beauty in bucket-loads.

Here's all you need to know about Caesarea, one of the most exciting day trips from Jerusalem.

How to get to Caesarea from Jerusalem?

Caesarea lies north of Tel Aviv and there is a highway connecting Jerusalem and this ancient location.

From Jerusalem to Caesarea by car

It is easy to drive to Caesarea from Jerusalem. Follow Route 1 out of the city and merge onto Route 6. Follow the highway past Tel Aviv and turn onto Route 531 towards the coast. Once you reach the coast, you will merge north onto Route 2 and continue to Caesarea.

Guided tour to Caesarea from Jerusalem

It can be difficult to tour Caesarea independently, so join an organized tour to avoid the hassle. These tours also stop at other famous attractions along Israel’s west coast, giving you excellent value for your time and money.

How much does the entrance ticket to Caesarea cost?

Entry tickets to Caesarea National Park are divided into 7 categories:

• Adult: ILS39  (US$11.50)
• Child: ILS24 (US$7)
• Adult in group: ILS33 (US$10)
• Child in group: ILS20 (US$6)
• Student: ILS33 (US$10)
• Israeli senior citizen: ILS20 (US$6)

What is the typical itinerary?

Day tours to Caesarea depart from your hotel and take you to several astonishing spots along the Israeli coast. Head straight to the ancient Roman city and walk among the impressive ruins of Caesarea and see one of the largest amphitheaters from Roman times and stand in the shadow of the imposing aqueduct.

After a detailed tour of the archaeological excavations, you will visit the city of Haifa to appreciate the grandeur of the Baha’i Gardens and its manicured terraces. Next, you will venture north to the Lebanese border to indulge in the dreamy grottoes of Rosh Hanikra.

See the shimmering white chalk cliffs shooting out of the sea before driving to the interesting city of Acre and its UNESCO-listed Old City. Here you can visit the dramatic city walls, the Oriental market and the glorious Jezzar Pasha Mosque before driving back to your hotel in Jerusalem.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Caesarea?

The day trips to Caesarea are filled with activities and places to see, but you are spoiled for choice when it comes to the type of tour you want to take.

Day trip to Caesarea plus Haifa and Akko from Jerusalem

This comprehensive day trip to Caesarea includes all the best spots along Israel’s Mediterranean coast. Start with a visit to Caesarea National Park and move north to see spectacular views, explore ancient and present cultures of Israel and visit multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

These day trips are perfect for small groups or individuals who want to join a group of like-minded travelers for an adventure-filled day.

Private tour to Caesarea from Jerusalem

A fully flexible itinerary and personalized travel experience is the way to go if you value luxury above all else. A private tour to Caesarea will take you back in time at the Caesarea archaeological site, but also spoil you with the most beautiful natural wonders up the west coast of Israel.

2-Day tour to Caesarea from Jerusalem

A 2-day tour to Caesarea is perfect for those who want to explore more of Israel’s holy sites. Enjoy all the sites of a regular Caesarea day tour and spend the night at a traditional kibbutz.

On the second day, you will enter one of the holiest places in the country, Nazareth. See the synagogue where Jesus was believed to have taught and visit the baptismal site on the Jordan River.

How much does a day trip to Caesarea from Jerusalem cost?

A full-day group tour to Caesarea costs from US$120 per person and includes hotel pick-up and all entry fees.

A private tour of the same itinerary costs US$450 for a group of up to 15 people, but entrance fees are not included.

A 2-day tour to Caesarea costs from US$345 per person and includes accommodation, hotel pick-up and entry fees.

What will you see and do?

Caesarea National Park has dozens of captivating ruins and monumental ancient landmarks. One of the main attractions is the Roman amphitheater, which was one of the biggest in the ancient world.  You will be guided through the archaeological park and reef palace to see wonders from the ancient world.

Along the way, you will also wander through the Hippodrome site with its reconstructed frescoes and promenade, as well as the Old City and Port where you will find treasures like the Crusader Gate.

There are dozens of statues and sculptures to admire and the fortifications and constructions that remain throughout the park are nothing short of remarkable.

On multi-day and private excursions, you may also spend some time by the sea to relax or even go for snorkeling or on a boat cruise. You can also explore the countryside in a 4x4 SUV or on a camel.

What are the opening times?

The opening times of Caesarea National Park are as follows:

Summer months

• Sunday through Thursday and Saturdays: 8AM to 5PM
• Fridays and Public Holidays: 8AM to 4PM

Winter months

• Sunday through Thursday and Saturdays: 8AM to 4PM
• Fridays and Public Holidays: 8AM to 3PM

When is the best time to visit Caesarea?

The best time to visit Caesarea is from March to May and late September to early November, when the weather is pleasant and not as hot as in the summer.

Are there any tours to Caesarea from other cities in Israel?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Israel:

• Day trips to Caesarea from Tel Aviv

Travel tips

• Wear modest clothing and cover your knees and shoulders for religious sites.
• Bring water and snacks, food and drinks are not provided on the tour.
• Bring your own sunscreen.
• Wear comfortable shoes. These tours involve a lot of walking.