Sea of Galilee: Day Trips and Tours from Tel Aviv

The Sea of Galilee is the lowest freshwater lake in the world and one of the most iconic locations in history. On a day trip to the Sea of Galilee from Tel Aviv, delve into the spiritual legacy of this region.

Located in Israel, this landmark played a prominent role in the Bible. Journey here to gain a deeper understanding of its significance, and visit the surrounding sites that have become important places of pilgrimage.

Here's all you need to know about the Sea of Galilee, one of the most notable day trips from Tel Aviv.

How to get to the Sea of Galilee from Tel Aviv?

The Sea of Galilee is located approximately over 100 kilometers from Tel Aviv and can only be accessed overland.

From Tel Aviv to the Sea of Galilee by car

With numerous car rental companies in Tel Aviv, you can easily rent a car to embark on the approximately 2-hour trip. The length and route depend on which section of the lake you journey to.

From Tel Aviv to the Sea of Galilee by bus

For a more affordable option, there are busses from Tel Aviv to different stops, including Tiberias and Capernaum. You may have to take a connecting bus.

Guided tour to Tel Aviv from the Sea of Galilee

For an easier trip, you can choose to join a guided tour which will provide pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in a comfortable vehicle and take you to the most notable places.

What is the typical itinerary?

On a guided day trip to the Sea of Galilee to Tel Aviv, you can expect to be picked up from your accommodation before embarking on your journey in comfort.

Many tours will stop at the town of Nazareth along the way. In this historic locale, you can visit famous sites such as the Church of Annunciation and St. Joseph’s Church.

At the Sea of Galilee, admire the glittering waters of Israel’s largest freshwater lake. Visit noteworthy places surrounding it, including the Mount Of Beatitudes, Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fish at Tabgha, Kfar Cana, and Capernaum.

For a more spiritual experience, you can head through the town of Tiberias to Yardenit. This baptism site is located on the Jordan River leading into the Sea of Galilee.

At the end of the day, be dropped off at your accommodation, having experienced a fulfilling jaunt through the significant sites of Israel.

What kinds of tours are available to go to the Sea of Galilee?

From guided group tours to private trips and multi-day excursions, you can tailor your journey according to your preferences.

Guided tours to the Sea of Galilee from Tel Aviv

On a guided tour from Tel Aviv to the Sea of Galilee, you will benefit from the presence of guides who will be able to illuminate your journey.

You can be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation in a vehicle or coach on a day trip that will last approximately 10 hours.

These tours will often include a stop at Nazareth and other locales around the Sea of Galilee.

Private tours to the Sea of Galilee from Tel Aviv

For a more personal experience, you can opt to join a private tour. This too includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Some private tours give you the option of choosing your stops or itinerary and may also include a guide.

Multi-day tours to the Sea of Galilee from Tel Aviv

You can expand your journey from Tel Aviv on a 2-day trip. Add to your excursion with visits to places such as Golan Heights and Caesarea, and spend the night in a traditional kibbutz.

For a more unique experience, you can join a 7-night tour that takes you through Israel’s most important locations, including Bethlehem and Jerusalem among others.

How much does a day trip to the Sea of Galilee from Tel Aviv cost?

A guided tour to the Sea of Galilee from Tel Aviv can start at approximately US$90 per person.

The cost of a private tour is approximately US$290 per person for a group of three people.

A 2-day tour starts at approximately US$350 per person for a group of two people.

A 7-night tour starts at US$1,500 per person for a group of nine people.

Some surrounding locations may require an entrance fee. At the Mount of Beatitudes, entrance on foot is free, but cars must pay US$1 to park.

What will you see and do?

While the Sea of Galilee is a remarkable natural phenomenon as the second lowest lake on Earth, it holds deep religious and cultural relevance. It played a prominent role in the life of Jesus and was the site of the first Jewish kibbutz in Deganya.

On your journey here, be sure to visit the numerous remarkable sites that surround it.

Mount of Beatitudes

Overlooking the Sea of Galilee is the Mount of Beatitudes. This is the location where Jesus is believed to have delivered his famous Sermon on the Mount.

Here, you can visit the Church of Beatitudes, which was built in 1938 and has an octagonal design. Each side represents the eight Beatitudes delivered by Jesus.

Church of the Multiplication

Near the Mount of Beatitudes is the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes located in Tabgha.

This church was built on the grounds of two former churches and is said to be where Jesus performed one of his most famous miracles.

A floor mosaic at the altar dating back to the 5th century depicts the fish and bread Jesus multiplied to feed thousands.  

Kafr Cana

In Kafr Cana, you can visit the site where Jesus performed his first-ever miracle.

Visit the Cana Wedding Church, built in the 1800s on the grounds where Jesus is said to have turned water into wine at a wedding he was attending.

Capernaum

This old fishing village on the shore of the Sea of Galilee was once Jesus’ home.

Archaeological excavations here uncovered an ancient synagogue. Beneath it may be the foundations of another synagogue where Jesus would have once preached.

Yardenit

Situated on the Jordan River, Yardenit is an important baptism site. Thousands of people journey here to be baptized every year.

Nazareth

Located just under an hour from the Sea of Galilee, Nazareth is a historic city where Jesus grew up.

On a stop at Nazareth, you can visit the Church of Annunciation. Built in the 1960s, this basilica is believed to stand where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and announced she would give birth to Jesus.

You can also visit St. Joseph’s Church nearby. This place of worship is said to be built upon the remains of Joseph’s carpentry workshop.

When is the best time to visit the Sea of Galilee?

The best time to visit the Sea of Galilee is spring (March to May) or autumn (October to November) when temperatures are moderate and enjoyable. Summer weather can be very humid.

Are there any tours to the Sea of Galilee from other cities in Israel?

Yes, there are tours departing from another city in Israel:

• Day trips to the Sea of Galilee from Jerusalem

Travel tips

• Many of the places you may visit at the Sea of Galilee are important religious sites. Ensure you dress modestly before entering.
• Pack a hat and sunscreen, as the region and some sites are very exposed.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you may do a lot of walking on uneven ground at some sites.
• Take a camera to capture some of the most historically significant places you may have the pleasure of visiting.