holly land travel

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Holy Land Tours & Trips

Visit the Holy Land with an expert tour guide and experience some of the most important locations in the history of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam for yourself. The tour companies we work with will escort you to everything from the Mount of Olives in Israel to Wadi Rum in Jordan. The most popular month to visit is October.

64 Holy Land tour packages with 1,302 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Premium Jordan

I had the BEST time on this tour with Osama and a great small group! Unforgettable stories, interesting history and context shared!

• In-depth Cultural

Highlights of the Holy Land Best Experience - 8 Days

Yariv our tour guide was very informative. Gave us a positive vibe inspite of the cold and rainy weather.

• Sightseeing

Heritage of the Holyland Tour - 8 days

Great tour. Don’t think twice about it.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Totally Jordan - 8 Days

Jordan is not to be missed!!!

Jordan & Egypt Uncovered

Brilliant. The people who travel with Intrepid tend to be friendly and advventurous so had a great group. The tour guides in Jordan and Egypt were fantastic

Heritage of the Holy Land

Itinerary excellent, Orna our guide was outstanding, My only criticism was the hotel location in Jerusalem- it was just too far out of the city to be able to walk to the sites - my recommendation would be to use one closer to facilities!

• Coach / Bus

Heritage & Holy Land - 8 days

Dear Folks, The tour was terrific and all I antiipated it would be - experiencing Israel in every way, shape and form everywhere we went! However, at my age the amount of walking was beyond my comfort zone after a several days. I was worn out after 4 days, and totally exhausted after the 6th day, after I'd rested my sore toe in the hotel the previous day! I'm in good shape for my age, however that much walking on unlevel terraine was w-a-y beyond my comfort zone and I'll sign up for that level of intensity again. The tour guides were great and professional. If I were to do another tour, I'll visit half to one/third the number of places we went, relax more, and spend more time at each place. Your foils online that answered all my questions were superb, kind and helpful. That's all, may God bless you all richly!

Pilgrimage to the Holy Land Israel and Jordan - 11 Days

All 5 star except tour guide Naomi was atheist, and didn't mind holes in my faith...IN ISRAEL!!!

Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Dead Sea 4-Day Excursion

Amir was great, shared a lot of history about Jerusalem and we had a wonderful time learning about our surroundings with him!

Holy Land Discovery - Faith-Based Travel - Catholic Itinerary

The Catholic component was not as evident as I expected.

Holy Land Discovery with Jordan - Faith-Based Travel - Catholic Itinerary

The tour was excellent in scope. Our Tour Guide Samir is the best I have ever had!!!! In retrospect and talking with fellow tour members I would have done thing differently if I had direct contact with either Tourradar and Cosmos. I.e plane arrangemets and trip modifications. Mike Steven

• River Cruise

Experience Egypt & Jordan – 5* Cruise

This was an amazing tour, from beggining to end. When it comes to organization, we were shocked on how well organized this tour is. Since we landed in Cairo, until we left in Amman, we always had someone with us, and we were informed at all times about what exactly was going to happen. They picked us up as soon as we got out of the gate in Cairo and Amman, drove us to our Hotel, where we met our group, and were given an explanation on the tour, and what the days would look like. Everyday we had an overview of the next day, and a breakdown of the times. We always had security with us plus our guide and a driver. Everything felt well organized, smooth and safe. Egypt was excellent. Our guide Raemon was awesome. Super nice and friendly person, very open and always giving information about the different sites we went to. He would stand by our side whenever we needed to get cash out, when we were buying things, and would give us advice on how to deal with the locals. He also took us to some other sites that some people in the group requested that were not in the itinerary, which was even better. The food was catered to europeans/americans, mostly buffet style with some egyptian food so Raemon took us to a street food vendor for those who wanted to try something more local. No one in the group got sick, even though we ate everything. The hotels and the cruise were all great, the food in general was ok. We took the bus, that was 13 hours to Aswan, but most people took the flight. It is worth metioning that the extra excursions like Abu Simbel and the Hot air balloon are a must, they were some of the highlights of our trip. In Jordan we had Jamal as our guide, he really put in the time to teach us about Jordan, its history and culture. He was awesome too. He would explain not only things regarding the history of the different sites, but while we drive around, he would point out at things for us to notice, he would tell us about the culture, the food, the traditions etc. He also took us to the batism site of Jesus. We can't be tankful enough for how much he taught us, and how passionate he is about his job. The food in Jordan was amazing, way better than Egypt, and the sites were incredible. Overall, this trip is worth every cent. It is a very condensed trip, with a lot of sites and long days, some days having to wake up at 2:30 to go to some sites (you can always sleep on the bus). The two days in Hurghada are a great break, where you relax and rest, and the free day in Cairo we used it to go back into the pyramids, as the hotel is like 15 minutes away. I would not recommend this trip if you have young children, even teenagers would get very tired. We though about cancelling because of the current situation in Gaza, but thankfully we didn't. The support since the moment we booked the trip was also incredible. I can't stress enough how amazing this trip was and the awesome people we met along the way, and we want to thank Timeless Tours for providing this amazing experience that we will remember forever. Carlos and Rachel

Journey Through the Holy Land with Jordan - Faith-Based Travel

Our guide for Jordan Tour, Suhaib was fantastic! - he was very organised and knowledgeable. Everybody loves him.

Journey Through the Holy Land - Faith-Based Travel

The only thing that I would have liked was a guide, that for the reading and interpretation of the scriptures , was a Christian and not a Jew

Egypt & Jordan Jewel with Nile Boat Cruise

The Egypt portion was outstanding. Our guide, Nabil, was fabulous. However, the Jordan portion of the tour, was poorly organized, with jammed tiny tour busses, and a horrible experience at the Bedouin camp. Shared dirty washrooms, sand on the sheets, and running out of food and coffee at breakfast. Our guide did the best he could, with what he was given. I feel that ExPat and Tpur Radar

What people love about Holy Land Tours

Mo was an excellent tour leader in that he has such passion and enthusiasm about Jordan. I learnt so much about the history and culture and so enjoyed all of the activities. Mo went over and beyond to ensure my dietary needs were met as I have coeliac disease which was much appreciated. Highly recommend this tour.

We had the most amazing guide Leah Dor and the best driver Hassan they both was so lovely, accomodating and went out their way to be so helpful and gave us some extra nice suprises throughout the tour. Everything was a good pace, never rushed and saw so much place and Leah was an expert with knowledge. Transfer drivers was on time when arrived plus to leave. Reliable company and organised well. Only thing, if you want to visit where Jesus was born inside the church, there is a big que and it is not part of this tour as this is just the highlights, they visit the church but not to que for certain things like that which many was not aware of so read the intinary clearly

I loved the Heritage of the Holy Land tour. Our tour guide Leah was very knowledgeable and informative. Our bus driver Hassam was very good about navigating the narrow streets with a tour bus. We all became like family by the end of the week.

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Discover Italy's Wonders

Discover the treasures of greece, explore the holy land in a new way, explore the holy land and live it, walk the footsteps of jesus, embark on a journey of discovery, ready to make your travel dreams a reality.

Explore the world with us. Turn your travel dreams into reality as you discover enchanting destinations across Europe, Italy, Vatican, Egypt, and beyond. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the Holy Land, witness the Passion Play in Germany, and embrace the beauty of Rome, Mexico, Jordan, and Greece. Whether in a group or a personalized tour, we specialize in crafting seamless travel experiences for any group size. Your dream vacation awaits – make it a reality!

Exploring the Sacred Sites

Is it your dream to visit the holy land.

Join others who want to visit the Holy Land and witness the miracle for yourself. Join a regular scheduled Holy Land Group Tour. Or You can have your own tour arranged. No matter the size of your group is, we can have it all arranged for you. You will live and breath the bible when traveling to the Holy Land, the land where it all began.

Join us in an Unforgettable Journey

Our tours & pilgrimages, ensuring safety & peace of mind.

Yearly, over 3 million pilgrims embark on their spiritual journey to the Holy Land without encountering any unpleasant incidents. We vigilantly implement every possible measure to guarantee the safety and security of our pilgrims, ensuring an unforgettable journey.

Comprehensive Travel Packages

Professional tour guides and skilled bus drivers lead our tours, with daily celebrations of Mass or services. Your package includes not only transportation and guided tours but also daily breakfast, dinner, accommodations, and airfare.

Immerse Yourself in the Journey

Our pilgrimages offer an unforgettable experience that will resonate with you forever. Pilgrims have embarked on spiritual journeys since the earliest days of our faith, and our pilgrimages provide the opportunity to live and breathe that rich tradition.

Register and Let your Spiritual Journey Starts!

Enjoy, live and explore all the historical places where Jesus was born, lived, died and has risen almost the same as the time he lived there. Modern coaches, nice clean accommodations 4 and 5 Star Hotels, good food, different and unique nature, nice beaches, moderate nice weather and much more..

Fr. Evan Bui

Package price: $2,995.00, feb 10, 2025 - feb 18, 2025.

Fr.Brent Kruger

Package price: $4,495.00, jun 09, 2025 - jun 19, 2025.

Fr. Mario Valencia

Nov 11, 2024 - nov 22, 2024.

Fr Ismail Mora

Package price: $5,395.00, dec 30, 2024 - jan 11, 2025.

Fr. Bernard Marian Shrines

Package price: $4,595.00, jul 07, 2024 - jul 19, 2024.

Fr. David Rome and Northern Italy

Package price: $4,695.00, oct 07, 2024 - oct 18, 2024.

Fr. Manuel Chavez Rome and Northern Italy

Package price: $4,175.00, may 13, 2024 - may 23, 2024.

Fr. Victor Marian Shrines

Waiting List

Package Price: $4,895.00

Aug 07, 2024 - aug 19, 2024.

Sep 19, 2024 - Oct 01, 2024

Pilgrims testimonials, debbie lopez.

I recently returned from a trip to Israel to visit the Holy Land with the Holy Land Tours and Travel. This opportunity is something I have wanted to do in a long time. I was blessed to be able to go with Pastor Symons and a wonderful group of Christians t......

Tucky Rodrigue

What made this trip unique from all others was - spirit! There was a friendly, caring, Christian spirit in the group that made this trip a standout. This attitude, I believe, was passed down from the organizers. They did everything to make us feel special......

Randy and Kaye Dorn

It was unbelievable to walk where Jesus walked, see places he preached, prayed, and suffered. We now are able to make connections with people, places, and miracles we hear about in the Bible. The pilgrimage was full of spirituality. It was special to tour......

Cathleen Howell

Absolutely wonderful!! Everything from the first contact information to, sadly, saying goodbye was well thought out and planned. Would highly recommend Holy Land Tours and look forward to the possibilities of taking the trip again in the future....

Peggy (Margaret) Hager

Holy land tours made our journey so complete. Not only did I see what Jesus saw, I walked the same paths that he did. Along with our journey, our tour guide, Rami, was amazing, his explanations brought the Bible to life in my heart. When I hear the Bible......

Margaret Webster

Your tour company exceeded all my expectations. Besides the well thought out itinerary I especially appreciated the feeling of safety, knowing you were with us to help us in any way. That meant a lot. I required additional arrangements and you planned the......

Norma Martinez-Melo

Travel to the Holy Land has been number 1 on my bucket list since the early 80's. I have studied, researched and prepared myself for more than twenty years. And as a Theology major I thought I had a working knowledge of what I was going to encounter - but......

The entire trip was fantastic – accommodations, food, attractions, guides, driver, and especially the gracious hospitality the team provided us in inviting us into there homes and meeting their families....

The tour itinerary was very fulfilling/satisfying. The only recommendation regarding the itinerary would be to add another Jordan location (maybe Wadi Rum) and make it a three day part of the trip. The guides and drivers were knowledgeable, friendly, help......

I have traveled to the Holy Land three times. HLT surpasses any group, any travel experience that I have ever known. Your selflessness and generosity can only come from a deep spiritual conviction, and Holy Land Christians are blessed through your efforts......

Victoria Waufle

What an incredible trip this was for our group of 16! Being a full time church worker the Holy Land has been on my bucket list for years. Holy Land tours obtained the perfect Christian guide for us one who was knowledgeable beyond the norm...born, raised......

Rev. Frank Daveed

I went to the Holy Land with 42 people from my parish last October, was very surprised at how well Holy Land Tours organized and planned the pilgrimage! They were able to answer all the questions my people had asked and give us a well developed answer. Th......

Ana Fernandez

Everything was amazing especially meeting Tierra Santa, one life time experience. Ramzi was amazing knowledgeable y our driver Jorge, was an amazing driver. Both of them were courtesy towards all of us and they did a great job._x000D_ Hotel and food were......

Rev. Timothy Gerdes

We had a group of 18 go. For many this trip was on their wish list. This was my first time leading a tour of any kind and Holy Land Tours always communicated well when we prepared for the trip and the owner or staff person was always available when we wer......

Eulalie Paola

The trip was superb! -- I went to the Holy Land with my church for a pilgrimage and walked the footsteps of Jesus. We visited a lot of places and the tour guide was informed and knew a lot about the Holy Land history. We learned a lot from him. The driver......

Pastor Ken Hudson

Just returned from a great trip to the Holy Land. It was non-stop action full of sights and information._x000D_ _x000D_ Highly Recommended!...

I cannot thank God enough for giving me and my husband the opportunity to join the pilgrimage to Holy Land through Holy Land Tours and Travel, LLC last Oct 15, 2022 with Pastor Symons of Incarnation Lutheran Church. Having walked the footsteps of Jesus wa......

Nancy Taylor

I'll always be grateful for the opportunity to "walk where Jesus walked" in the care of Holy Land Tours in Pastor Luther Symons' group. In addition to giving thorough pre-trip preparation strategies, they were also readily available during our visit there......

I wanted to take a moment to thank you for the trip to the holy land. the experience was amazing and it could not of been better. I really liked the tour guide Abraham he was really nice and knew a lot about the history of the holy land. he also helped ev......

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Holy Land Pilgrimage & Jerusalem Pilgrimage

Nothing brings the Gospels to life like a Catholic Holy Land Pilgrimage Tour to the Holy Land with a Jerusalem stay in 2024 or 2025. During this pilgrimage to Jerusalem and Israel, you will walk in the Footsteps of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and the Apostles, visiting and celebrating daily Mass in the most important Shrines and Basilicas of Christianity. You will visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, where the Angel of the Lord appeared to the Virgin Mary, and she professed her Magnificat. You will visit Bethlehem and celebrate the birth of Christ at the Church of the Nativity .  During this Holy Land Pilgrimage tour, you will have the opportunity to renew your baptismal vows at the Jordon River and your wedding vows in Cana, where Jesus performed His first Miracle. You will spend two days around the Sea of Galilee where Jesus began His ministry, preaching to thousands as He gave His sermon on the Mount of Beatitudes, and miraculously fed the multitudes with fish and loaves of bread. The highlight of the Holy Land Pilgrimage Tour will be in pilgrimage to Jerusalem where you will pray in the Garden of Gethsemane and experience the Lord’s Passion along the Via Dolorosa , also known as the Way of the Cross, on the way to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre which marks the place where Jesus was put to death on Calvary, and was buried and rose again! Visits to Mount Tabor,  Sepphoris , Bethany, and Jericho are just some of the other places that you will visit on this Holy Land Pilgrimage Tour. For a wonderful reading of Holy Land Pilgrimage tour guidelines issued by the USCCB click here.   Why don’t you go ahead and book the Holy Land & Jerusalem Pilgrimage Tour for 2024 or 2025 today?

Catholic Journeys — The only pilgrimage tour company 100% Catholic owned and operated with a priest on staff.

A pilgrimage to the Holy Land is a special time of spiritual journey for Christians. It is a time when we recommit ourselves to living a Christian life as a life of pilgrimage.   —  United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

The video below shows some stops on this Jerusalem pilgrimage:

Tour Details for Holy Land & Jerusalem Pilgrimage

Departure & return location.

Your  local airport of choice  —  Or you can choose land only and make your own flight arrangements.

Departure Time

Arrive for Check-in 3 Hours Before Flight Time

Price Includes

• Air fares - Round trip airfare listed below Airfare is included for most major airports
• 1 Checked Bag with Airlines
• Hotel Accommodations - First Class 4 and 5-Star Hotels with Porterage
• Meals - Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Daily Wine & mineral water with dinners
• All transportation in destination location Airconditioned Motor Coach with Bottled Water and WiFi available onboard
• Tour Guide - Professional English Speaking Guides -- always Catholic
• Entrance Fees - Sightseeing and admissions fees as per itinerary Whisper Headsets where needed
• Catholic Priest, Daily Mass and Spiritual Activities Coordinated

Price Excludes

• Travel Insurance -- optional but recommended
• Gratuities for Guides and Drivers
• Baggage Fees for airlines if applicable
• Fees for Seat Assignments or upgrades, if applicable
• Private airport transfers when selecting Land Only and arranging your own flights.
• Any Personal Expenses

Complimentaries

• Name and Luggage tags
• Neck Wallet

Itinerary for Holy Land & Jerusalem Pilgrimage Tour

Day 1 depart for tel aviv.

Day 2 Tel Aviv - Overnight on the Mediterranean Coast

Day 3 En route to Galilee: Caesarea - Mt Carmel - Stella Maris - Carmelites - Cana - Nazareth - Basilica of the Annunciation

Day 4 Ministry of Christ in Galilee: Tiberias - Boat ride - Sea of Galilee - Capernaum - Mt. Beatitudes - Caesarea Philippi

Day 5 Mt Tabor - Sepphoris - Jerusalem

Day 6 Jerusalem the Holy City - Bethlehem the Nativity - Mt Olives - Church of Visitation - Shepherd’s Fields - Church of the Nativity

Day 7 Jerusalem: The Passion of Jesus' Last Hours: - Bethany, Mt Olives, Palm Sunday, Dominus Flevit, Gethsemane, Cave of Betrayal, Cave of Assumption, Pater Noster

Day 8 Stations of the Cross - Church of the Holy Sepulchre - St Anne’s Church - Ecce Homo - Western Wall - Upper Room - Dormition Abbey

Day 9 The Wilderness - Bethany - Jericho - Mt Temptation - Dead Sea

Day 10 Jerusalem - Return Home

Your Holy Land and Jerusalem pilgrimage comes to an end.  Today you will board your flight(s) home.

Dates & Pricing

Dates, pricing & booking holy land & jerusalem pilgrimage tour, map of holy land and jerusalem pilgrimage tour.

Photos of the Holy Land & Jerusalem Pilgrimage Tour

Travel Insurance for Holy Land and Jerusalem Pilgrimage Tour

Travel Insurance for a pilgrimage to Jerusalem and Israel — is recommended

Click here for insurance plans including Cancel for Any Reason Coverage for a pilgrimage to Israel.

FAQ about the Holy Land and Jerusalem Pilgrimage Tour

What hotels will we be staying at for the Holy Land Jerusalem Pilgrimage?

For a list of the 4 and 5-Star hotels we typically use including the famous Notre Dame Center for the Holy Land Jerusalem Pilgrimage click here.

Do I need an electrical adapter in Israel?    Yes, you will need an adapter for a pilgrimage to Israel .

Is a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and Jerusalem important?  For additional information for pilgrims to the Holy Land please click here.

Have the Bishops said anything about a pilgrimage to the Holy Land?   For Holy Land Pilgrimage Guidelines from the United States Catholic Bishops click here.

Are your guides Catholic?  All of our guides are Roman Catholic!  Absolutely!  We are the only pilgrimage tour agency with a Roman Catholic priest on staff!

How do I meet up with the group if I make my own flight arrangements? 

Arrival times vary between dates and within pilgrimages.  If you make your own flight arrangements, we can arrange a private transfer from Ben Gurion Tel Aviv airport to the group hotel for $100 per person.  We can also arrange a return transfer to the airport at the end of your pilgrimage for $100 per person.  We recommend using our transfer service because they are known and trusted drivers.  As soon as you have your flight information, email Marcelle .

Would you like to lead your parish or group on this pilgrimage?   Click Here to get started.

Do you have other pilgrimage tours to the Holy Land?   Yes!  See our Holy Land Pilgrimage with Jordan and Petra Tour. Prices start at $3,199.  We also have the delectable Holy Land Pilgrimages to Israel featuring Foodies Tours designed for Catholic Foodies.  We also have our brand new budget-friendly Holy Land Pilgrimage with Bethlehem Stay.

Do you have FAQs for airlines, passports, vaccinations, travel insurance, tipping, packing, mobility, and others?   Yes. FAQ for all Catholic Journeys Pilgrimage Tours

Can I obtain Cancel for Any Reason Coverage for a pilgrimage to Israel?  Yes! Click here for insurance plan details — see the Select Plan with CFAR upgrade.

Related Tours

Fr. Dan Dashner

Each day, early in the morning on this Holy Land Pilgrimage we were off and running. The driver of the van was a very safe and considerate driver who not only ensured that we arrived at all our assigned destinations on time, but he also ensured that there was plenty of water for all of us to drink as the weather was very hot and we needed to constantly hydrate our bodies. All Holy Site visits were well-planned, and our tour guide was well known by the guards and site coordinators and several occasions we were even granted head of line privileges.

Every day of our journey was fruitful and fulfilling and we were given the opportunity to visit and spend ample time at each site identified in the Catholic Journey Pilgrimage Brochure. In fact, we even visited some sites that were not scheduled and not offered in the itinerary. Confession and spiritual direction were announced as available and was provided as requested and the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass was celebrated each day with the group. Every morning, on the tour motor coach, I led a recitation of The Holy Rosary or the Chaplet of Divine Mercy. Everybody joined in and I’m sure that our pilgrimage was blessed and especially protected by the Blessed Virgin Mother of God because during this pilgrimage, I was hit from behind by an electric motor bike. However, I was not seriously hurt and there were no injuries to the operator of the electric motor bike.

On the last day of the pilgrimage to Jerusalem, we went to the Via Dolorosa, and I led stations of the cross all the way to Golgotha where I was privileged to offer the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

This Holy Land Pilgrimage was a dream come true for me because when I was ordained to the presbyterate, I was scheduled to go to the Holy Land This trip was on my bucket list of things I wanted to do and an answer to my prayer. Due to our very close group interaction and relationships, we developed with each other, we now have new spiritual families (members of our pilgrimage group). Each of the nine members of our group have called or texted me and each other and assured us of their prayers & support.

Words cannot express my gratitude to Catholic Journeys for giving me this great opportunity to go on pilgrimage to the Holy Land as group Spiritual Director. I commend Catholic Journeys for hiring knowledgeable guides and skilled driver for these pilgrimages. May God continue to Bless & Protect You and All Pilgrims that make this Extraordinary Journey to the Holy Land through Catholic Journeys.

Reverend Father Daniel L. Dashner,

Patrick and Linda

We went on pilgrimage to the Holy Land on 9/17 and returned 9/26. We celebrated our 30th Anniversary first by renewing our vows in Cana and spending last full day on our actual Anniversary with a special Mass at Golgotha and a visit to the Tomb.

Our guide was an extraordinary mix of historian, geography, religion and Shepherd! He kept us all safe and taken care of whatever we needed.

Our Priest, Father Dan, is now the head of our Pilgrimage Family and we are grateful to God and everyone at Catholic Journeys for making this possible!

The pilgrimage to Jerusalem and the Holy Land was wonderful and David, our guide, was fantastic. I was amazed at his knowledge and wish I could have recorded the entire trip. Unfortunately I became ill on the flight over so wasn’t able to fully enjoy trip. Sadly I have been diagnosed with cancer and would appreciate prayers. My roommate was also wonderful to me. Please add me to your prayer list. ✝️🙏🙏🙏🙏

Margaret and Richard

Our pilgrimage to the Holy Land was amazing. Everything was perfect from the time we were picked up at the airport until the day we departed. We had the best tour guide David. I felt blessed each day by his vast amount of knowledge. We were able to gain access to the most beautiful basilicas and had Mass each day. I felt very cared for and safe the entire pilgrimage. I would recommend Catholic Journey to everyone who is considering a pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

The pilgrimage to Jerusalem and the Holy Land was awesome despite the heat. Our guide was a wealth of knowledge. David, our tour guide was so passionate about his country and so willing to share his knowledge.

HOLY LAND TRAVEL ADVISORY

The Holy Land Franciscans have been living, working and guiding pilgrims in the Holy Land for 800 years. Because their mission is to also nourish the lives of Christians who live there, by taking a non-profit Franciscan Holy Land pilgrimage, you ensure that your trip will also support and nurture Christians struggling to survive in the Holy Land region.

Walk in the footsteps of Jesus and connect to the real people in the pages of Scripture. Plus, get to know the life and struggle of Christians in the Holy Land.

All-inclusive Packages

We plan it all – airfare, transportation, first-class accommodations and meals – so you can enjoy the experience!

Access and Safety

The Holy Land Franciscans, guardians of many holy sites for centuries, have greater access to these sites and knowledge as “insiders.”

Spiritual Direction

Let a Franciscan Friar lead you in Mass, reconciliation, group prayer, and reflection on the holy sites through Scripture.

QUESTIONS? CALL THE FRANCISCAN PILGRIMAGE OFFICE: 443-832-0350 (MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM EST)

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Why take any Christian pilgrimage to the Holy Land? Get the “local treatment” and tour Jerusalem and Israel with guides who call it home! The Holy Land Franciscans are priests and brothers who’ve lived and worked in the Holy Land for 800 years, taking care of many sacred sites. Walk in the footsteps of Jesus and his disciples visiting Tel Aviv, Bethlehem, Bethany, Jericho, Nazareth, Capernaum, Tiberias, Petra, and more.

CONTACT INFO

Phone: 443-832-0350 (Mon-Fri, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM EST) Email us: [email protected] Holy Land Franciscan Pilgrimages Office 1400 Quincy Street N.E. Washington, D.C. 20017

Why take just any Christian pilgrimage to the Holy Land? Get the “local treatment” and tour Israel, Jordan, Greece, Italy, and more with the guides of our non-profit pilgrimage group who call the Holy Land home. Plus, help Christians in the Holy Land at the same time! The Holy Land Franciscans are priests and brothers who’ve lived and worked in the Holy Land for 800 years, taking care of many sacred sites. Their mission is not only to welcome pilgrims, but to serve the Christians who live in the Holy Land, Christians who are in need of support in order to survive there. Walk in the footsteps of Jesus and his disciples visiting Tel Aviv, Bethlehem, Bethany, Jericho, Nazareth, Capernaum, Tiberias, Petra, and more.

Welcome to Holy Land Travel

Where we bring together christian believers from africa to embark on a transformative pilgrimage to the holy land of israel. our mission is to provide enriching experiences that strengthen faith, foster fellowship, and deepen understanding of the bible., 7 nights and 8 days - all inclusive, book your spiritual journey today.

We bring together Christian believers from Africa to embark on a transformative pilgrimage to the Holy Land of Israel. Our mission is to provide enriching experiences that strengthen faith, foster fellowship, and deepen understanding of the Bible.

About the Pilgrimage

A life-time experience.

Discover the sacred places where the foundations of your faith were laid. We’ll guide you through locations celebrated by different streams of Christianity, immersing you in the spiritual and historical richness of the Holy Land.

Whether you're Catholic, Protestant, Evangelical, Anglican, Adventist, or a Jehovah's Witness

Holy Land Travel respects the diverse traditions within Christianity. Our pilgrimage tours are designed to cater to all denominations, featuring sacred sites significant across different streams of faith. Whether you’re Catholic, Protestant, Evangelical, Anglican, Adventist, or a Jehovah’s Witness, we promise a journey that deepens your connection to your Christian heritage. With experienced guides providing rich historical context, we ensure a transformative spiritual experience. Join us in exploring the Holy Land, celebrating our shared faith in the footsteps of Jesus and the early Christians.

Package Details

We take care of everything for you.

We strive to make this journey as comfortable as it is spiritually fulfilling.

VISA arrangements

Comfortable hotel accommodations, luxury air-conditioned transportation, comprehensive tour guide services, all internal travels within israel, 7 nights and 8 days all inclusive, for just $3500, ready to embark on your spiritual journey.

• Click the ‘Book Now’ button below,
• fill out the registration form,
• our representative will contact you as soon as possible for further information and payment. 

Agent Program

Have questions about our pilgrimage packages check out our frequently asked questions section below. if you can't find the answers you're looking for, please feel free to reach out via the contact us section. .

Our all-inclusive package covers VISA arrangements, flights, comfortable hotel accommodations, comprehensive tour guide services, and all internal travels within Israel. The cost is $3500 or approximately 70,000 Zambian Kwacha (please use a current exchange rate).

By helping nine other believers embark on this spiritual journey, you can become an agent and earn a free pilgrimage for yourself or a payment of 50,000 Zambian Kwacha. Reach out to our team for more details on becoming an agent.

We’ve selected a range of sacred sites that carry significance across different Christian denominations to ensure a meaningful journey for every pilgrim, irrespective of their Christian stream.

The safety of our pilgrims is our top priority. We follow all recommended health and safety guidelines and offer full assistance throughout the trip.

We aim to accommodate any dietary restrictions or special needs our pilgrims may have. Please let us know in advance so we can make necessary arrangements.

You can sign up through our website by clicking on the ‘Book now’’ button, filling out the registration form, and our representative will contact you as soon as possible. 

Still have questions or want to share your thoughts?

We would love to hear from you. Reach out to us via Whatsapp. 

book your spiritual journey today! 

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Introduction

Welcome to holylandtravel.co.il, Our goal is to ensure that you enjoy our service in a safe and informed manner. By using our website, you agree to the following terms and conditions. Please review them carefully.

Terms and Conditions

Before making use of our services, customers are required to ensure the following:

• You possess valid health and travel insurance appropriate for your travel purposes.
• You hold a valid passport. Please note that any responsibilities regarding flight arrangements fall to the respective travel companies you choose to book your flights through.
• You have secured hotel and travel arrangements suitable for your trip. Be aware that all responsibilities pertaining to accommodations (such as hotels), travel, attractions, etc., are assumed by the entities with which you book these services.

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Our company serves as a facilitator between customers and various service providers. We do not directly provide the services listed on our website. Therefore, we cannot be held responsible for the quality of these services or any issues that may arise during the delivery of these services.

Customers are advised to thoroughly review and verify the terms and conditions of the service providers before engaging their services. By using our website and its services, you understand and agree that you shall have no claim against our company for any issues or damages that may arise in connection with the receipt of services listed on our website.

Your agreement with these terms will be indicated by your continued use of our website and services after this policy has been made available to you.

Take Step Where Jesus Walked

We not just a travel agency, we see ourselves as Holy Land ambassadors and a bridge between the worlds.

OUR PROGRAMS

Itineraries to suit the particular denomination of the Church Group.

OUR ITINERAIES

In our trips we take you to the local culture and being, as close as we can, as far as you will allow us.

We Trust our team leats meet them.

When was the last time you got away from the routine, met another culture, looked into its soul and came back with a deeper faith, and memories that will last a lifetime?

We say, “when you go back home, you will understand”

But if you haven't traveled with us yet, there are a few things we want you to know With TRUST™ travel agency you get more, a lot more!

Educational Opportunities Tours

Pilgrimages to the holy land.

Walk in the Footsteps of Jesus

Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to witness the events of the Gospels? Imagine being in the boat with the disciples on the Sea of Galilee when Jesus spoke to the storm or standing on the Mount of Olives beside a weeping Jesus. Although going back in time is not possible, you can go where the events of the Bible took place - the Holy Land.

A Holy Land Experience will:

• Bring the Bible to life
• Inspire passionate faith & Christian living
• Enrich preaching and teaching
• Energize the call to ministry
• Enhance knowledge and understanding of the contemporary culture and issues

EO Tours will help you discover the blessing of visiting the Holy Land. For over 45 years, we have served the Christian community by providing quality Christian travel programs at affordable prices to the Holy Land and other Bible Lands locations. Travel with EO Tours on one of the hundreds of scheduled departures, or customize a travel plan for your group.

Quickly Compare Holy Land Itineraries

With nine standard itineraries and a few specialty itineraries from time to time, we know it can get confusing when you're deciding which one to book. That's why we've created a comparison chart.

• Comparison Chart (PDF)

Learn More about Being a Group Leader

Interested in learning more about becoming a group leader and tour host? Check out all the Group Leaders page  or call 1-800-247-0017 during our office hours, Monday-Friday 8:00am-11:00pm ET and select option 4.

Travel Updates and More!

Follow EO Tours on Facebook , Instagram or at www.eoupdate.com to see testimonies and pictures from EO travelers in the Holy Land and other locations around the world.

EOX Exceptional Expeditions

Holy Land Contemporary Itinerary Options

2025 holy land journeys.

Bible Land Discovery | 2025

Bible Land Exploration | 2025

Biblical Pathways | 2025

Holy Land via Jordan | 2025

Holy Land Classic Journey | 2025

Journey Through the Bible | 2025

Holy Land Classic for Small Groups | Jan. 14, 2025

Gentle Walkers in the Holy Land for Small Groups | Jan. 20, 2025

Bible Land Discovery for Small Gorups | January 22, 2025

Journey Through the Bible for Small Groups | Feb. 11, 2025

2024 holy land journeys.

Ancient Wonders of the Bible Lands: Egypt, Jordan & Holy Land Departures | 2024

Bible Land Exploration Departures | 2024

Bible Land Discovery Departures | 2024

Biblical pathways departures | 2024.

Holy Land Classic Journey Departures | 2024

Holy Land via Jordan Departures | 2024

Jesus Trail | 2024

Journey Through the Bible Departures | 2024

Living Stones | 2024

Celebrations in the Holy Land: Bethlehem | Dec. 10, 2024

Celebrations in the Holy Land: Jerusalem | Dec. 10, 2024

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Recent News

Read All News

These are 10 unique things that this pilgrimage provide where by all the others do not

Yoke lesson for everyone, a little about love.

• Chris: “My reflections upon our recent Pilgrimage to the Holy Land begin with thoughts of the practical and end with the spiritual. Practically speaking, the scope of the Pilgrimage couldn’t be improved upon. It included visits to all of the most important places associated with Our Lord. I will surely recommend this Pilgrimage to my brother priests, to religious and to the laity.” Fr. Douglas Mathers NYC
• Chris: “I just wanted you to know how much our trip meant to me. I’m sure I have not yet experienced all the ramifications of it. Truly, it is a life changing event!” Shelly NY
• Dear Chris: “You are to be commended for your generosity of commitment in your special ministry to bring priest, religious and lay people to the Holy Land. I am amazed at the influence you have had in my life and beyond in bringing people to Israel and look at how many lives have been touched! I stated to you before and I will repeat it: since visiting Israel and the Holy Land, my life will never be the same again.” Fr. William Gordon NY
• “It is you, Chris, who made the experience of a life-time come alive within the soul of my life as you prayed the Gospel passages, shared faith insights from your own experiences at the holiest of places, and gave from the heart of you beautiful gifts that will be treasured and cherished. Thank you from the very deep core of my being for this once-in-a-life time experience.” Sr. Mary Eamon NY
• “Thank you Chris, for a wonderful trip and making it possible for priests to experience, in a prayerful and joyful way, the Holy Land. You are an exceptional persona with an exceptional apostolate. I just hope more priests and lay people take advantage of what you are making possible. The Scriptures will never be the same…and we will never be the same!” Fr. Carmen Perry Pa.
• “My trip to the Holy Land is one that I shall not forget. I was looking for a trip that would be filled with information but enfleshed with the spiritual experience of the places were visited. On our trip with you Chris, I experienced all of this and even more than I had anticipated. I shall ever be grateful to you for desiring to share your spiritual experience of the Holy Land with me and others.” Fr. Xavier Goulet, OFM Conv. Minnesota
• “Without doubt, Chris, it was your own deep devotion to the Holy Family…and in particular to Our Blessed Mother and her Rosary that set the prayerful and peaceful tone of this “Tour of a Lifetime!” I therefore highly recommend this PILGRIMAGE to the HOLY LANDS to every priest, deacon, and lay person.” Fr. R. Stack Canada
• Chris: “I want you to know that each day was a wonderful day in my life that was spent on the pilgrimage. The reverence for each holy place visited with prayer and reflection. I pray that more priests, deacons, sisters and lay people take advantage of your pilgrimage and your ministry.” Fr. John Peters Arizona

Catholic Holy land Pilgrimage Tours Travels Catholic Tours – Catholic trips Christopher Cross KHS

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Chris made his first pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 1982. On the last day of his journey, he decided to go to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray the rosary and to thank God for permitting him to make this most holy pilgrimage. In those predawn hours in the Garden of Gethsemane, Chris asked God if it was possible that he could make another trip to the Holy Land. He never dreamed that God would see fit to permit him to make fifty-five more pilgrimages! His first sixteen trips consisted of groups of priests from the United States, Canada and Europe. His itinerary was designed for priests who were going on retreat. After numerous trips to Israel, there were many priests who asked him if he would be interested in taking over groups of lay people. This was the beginning of his ministry of leading many pilgrims to the Holy Land and showing them where Jesus lived, died and rose from the dead. Chris believes that most people who travel to the Holy Land will never experience what his groups experience mentally, physically and spiritually. Several priests who had traveled to the Holy Land with other groups have said that they had never seen some of the sites that they saw with Chris and that they had never experienced a more spiritual pilgrimage. Chris has had four priests who traveled with him come up to him at the Tel Aviv Airport and tell him that they were considering leaving the priesthood until they took this trip. These pilgrimages with Mr. Cross have a life changing effect upon all those who undertake them. Chris has made over 71 pilgrims to the Holy Land and is a very experienced licensed tour guide. Chris has averaged and made 2 trips a year for the last 33 years. He is well known throughout the Holy Land both by the Franciscans and tour guides.

• With today’s world problems (spiritual, moral and financial problems)
• A pilgrimage with Christopher Cross affords a unique opportunity to deepen one’s spiritual life.

Catholic Holyland Tours

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• With today's world problems (spiritual, moral and financial problems)
• A pilgrimage with Christopher Cross affords a unique opportunity to deepen one's spiritual life.

Before you go, check this out!

We have lots more on the site to show you. You've only seen one page. Check out this post which is one of the most popular of all time.

How to prepare for a Holy Land tour: 12 expert tips

Your Holy Land tour is booked and paid for. Or at least you have the money set aside and payment dates set. You’ve either signed up for a tour with your church or school, or you’ve planned something on your own. Now what?

Here are 12 tips on how to prepare for a holy land tour. We’re going to discuss

• The paperwork

Preparing for your flight.

What to pack., non-clothing gear., determining your gadget requirements..

• Stay connected.
• A picture plan.

Make a commitment to have fun.

Jewish holidays..

• A money plan.

A souvenir plan.

This is by no means an exhaustive list, so feel free to add or modify it to your liking.

All links are direct links.

The Paperwork.

The most important piece of paperwork for any overseas trip is your passport. You can’t get on the plane without it, and you can’t leave the airport at your destination. Your passport is your best friend until you get home.

Your tour leader should have already talked to you about your passport. When traveling overseas, it’s a good rule of thumb to have an expiration date that is more than 6 months past the end of your trip.

I’ve never seen anything bad happen where someone had to stay overseas for 6 months, but you never know. Although Israel doesn’t require it, some European countries require you to have 3 or 6 months between the end of your trip and the expiration of your passport.

A passport is good for 10 years. The website USA.gov recommends starting the renewal application 9 months before your passport expires.

As you pack your belongings make a photocopy of your passport. And take a picture of it with your smartphone.

Do the same thing with your driver’s license.

Print off a copy of your flight itinerary, tour itinerary, and tour group contacts. You should also have digital copies of these. A Word DOC or PDF is fine.

Take all the photocopies and printouts and put them in a document envelope. Place that in your carryon.

Attach all the digital photos and documents to an email and send it to yourself and someone who is not going with you on your trip.

You are doing this in case you are separated from your group or you lose your passport. You can produce proof that you did have it at some point.

Next, you want to confirm that your flights have been booked and paid for.

By now you should have your luggage and carry-on in your possession. If you don’t, check out my post on amenities for information on how to select luggage .

I’m the kind of guy that packs the night before I depart. There are some people that pack a week before.

Pack your bag when you are ready. But create a list. Even if you never create a list, this is a trip you want to do it for. And don’t forget to break the list down by checked and carry bag.

For deployment I know how much I can fit into a bag. And the list usually stays the same with a few changes here and there.

Traveling as a civilian is different though, in that the purpose is different. So, I have different gear needs and requirements. As a civilian, I need to create a different list for each trip. Because of this I practice packing my bag. I make sure I can fit everything in and that the weight is under 50 pounds.

You may need to do a couple of practice packings.

If you are traveling with a spouse or family member, considered spreading each person’s stuff across all the luggage. For example, put half your shirts in your bag and the other half in your spouse’s bag. And vice versa. This way, if one of your bags gets lost, you will both still have clothing.

Also, leave room for souvenirs and gifts.

If you have a layover, research the airport. Find the airport’s website and look for the map. You don’t need to spend a lot of time on this. Get an idea for what to expect during that layover.

Ideally, you want to limit yourself to 1 checked bag and 1 carry-on. Because you will constantly be on the move during a Holy Land tour, you want to minimize what you lug around.

You’ll need an appropriate wardrobe that takes into account the weather and religious rules.

For information on what to wear, check out this post on the topic .

You will need a durable pair of shoes for walking the sites. Feel free to pack some leisure shoes, but put them to the side until you know you can fit them in.

You never know if you’ll have laundry facilities available. So, make sure to bring a clothesline and some detergent pods.

Because of the nomadic nature of a Holy Land tour, it’s a good idea to use packing cubes. Whether you’ve used them before or not, I highly recommend them. Packing cubes allow you to “unpack” your bag but still be “packed.”

Packing cubes reduce the stress of sifting through your bag for the shirt that goes with those shorts. Before you know it, you’ve completely unpacked. As you rush to repack in the morning you might forget something in your room.

I always save 1 small packing cube for my carry-on bag. I put 1 set of underwear and socks, a t-shirt, and my travel pillow in it. I also throw in all my power cords for my tablet and smartphone as well.

Although it’s easier for guys, I recommend packing repeat or like items. For example, don’t pack a shirt that only goes with a certain pair of shorts. Pack a bunch of shirts that go with anything. And vice versa. Pack only one, maybe two, colors and styles of socks.

Non-clothing gear is stuff like a travel wallet, travel pillow, hat, and toiletry bag. Or anything else you want to bring.

Make sure to have enough toiletries for the entire trip. There are plenty of places you can pick up things you forget or lose. But don’t put a stop for toiletries in your plan. You may not get the opportunity.

Money can also be part of this category. I never exchange money prior to entering a country. You can play the exchange rate game to find the best rate, but I’ve never found that to be a fruitful use of time or energy. Bring a couple hundred dollars in $20 bills with you.

A good travel wallet is worth investing in. I’ve tried several different kinds. The necklace wallet, the waistline wallet, the belt wallet, and even just a regular wallet. They all have their pros and cons. I don’t like anything that hangs or dangles from a strap.

The best setup I’ve had was a regular wallet with well-zippered pockets. For a discussion on zippered pockets, check out my post right here .

Once you’ve determined what non-clothing gear you want or need, itemize them in your checked bag list or carry-on list.

If you’re anything like me, you like gadgets. Things that fall into this category are digital cameras, tripods, laptops, tablets, drones, electrical adapters, WiFi pucks, and so forth. The list is endless.

Your main goal here is to determine what you deem to be necessary for your tour. What do you plan to capture while you travel? Photos? A journal? A video journal? Are you a vlogger or blogger and need an internet connection? What support items do you need for these items?

I traditionally bring my DSLR camera, my smartphone, my tablet/laptop, a tripod, and all the accessories associated with keeping these items charged.

In the past, I’ve packed my DSLR camera and accessories in a Pelican case. A Pelican case is a ruggedized hard case . It takes up a lot of room and weight. On my last trip, I left the Pelican case behind and went with a padded camera bag. I surrounded it with the packing cubes that were filled with clothing. The camera was just fine, but I like the Pelican case.

Packing a tripod might be hard, but if you’re into photography, you won’t want to leave it behind. If it’s an issue, consider a monopod.

Once I have all my gadgets collected and all their accessories, I figure out how I will pack them.

Some items can go in my carry-on. Others, like my DSLR camera, need to go in my checked luggage.

If you decide to use packing cubes designate 1 small cube for your carry-on, as noted above. And 1 small cube for accessories in your checked luggage.

Some travelers require medical devices, such as a CPAP machine. I recommend carrying things like this on the plane.

Staying connected.

Most hotels you will stay at offer free WiFi. They understand that travelers want to stay connected and free WiFi attracts customers.

Some tour buses also have WiFi, but you can’t count on this.  

Developing your connection plan is something you need to start early. Figure out what your phone company offers. Some have great data and text plans. Some don’t.

Getting an Israeli SIM card might be a good option. Or a WiFi puck.

When I go on a Holy Land trip I text my friends and family a lot to send pictures as stories. I also use MS OneNote to document interesting tidbits and photos of each site. But I have the sync set to WiFi-only so I’m not using up my data.

My go-to is to get a text and data plan with my phone company and use the hotel WiFi in the evening. Most of the day is taken up by walking sites, sleeping on the bus, or taking in the landscape. Everything else can wait.

For a discussion on phone plans and connectivity options, check out my post on the topic right here .

It goes without saying that you will need to stay hydrated on your tour. Even in the winter months. Hydration is vitally important while traveling.

There are many options out there for water bottles. The best one is the one that fits your individual setup.

Are you carrying a backpack with side pockets? Are the pockets large, medium, or small? Are you carrying a shoulder bag? Do you want a nozzle to sip from or a wide mouth opening? Vacuum sealed for insulation, or are you OK with just a plain plastic container?

One of the most annoying things I come across is the couple who share 1 bottle. And they usually have a small one. You need to stay hydrated all day. Everyone should have their own bottle. I’d say 20 ounces is the minimum if you can refill it frequently.

On my last trip, I tried out the 2-bottle plan. I had a 40-ounce vacuum-sealed bottle I kept on the bus. And a 12-ounce vacuum-sealed bottle I carried on site. I’m not sure if I liked it, but it worked. Feel free to try it out if you want.

Some people say you should drink your weight in ounces per day. Others, half your weight in ounces. My recommendation is that if your mouth is dry, you are way behind the power curve.

One thing that I do with all my water bottles is run one of my backpack cinching straps through the handle. You’d be amazed at what will fall out of a pocket when you least expect it.

A photo plan.

Yes, you need a plan for picture taking. This doesn’t mean you need to have your shots picked out. It’s generally a good idea to have an idea of what sites you want to get a lot of pictures at.

Do you think you’ll need a tripod or not?

Capernaum is a good example. People mostly see pictures of Jerusalem and want to get an amazing shot from the Mount of Olives. But Capernaum is pretty cool too. So are the Cliffs of Arbel.

The reason you want to photo plan is so that you are ready with a charged camera battery. You know how to work your camera in a hurry. And you have plenty of space ready on your SD card.

Have a plan to download all your photos every evening to your laptop or tablet. Or the cloud. Don’t delete them off your smartphone or SD card though. Have extra cards available.

On a trip through Turkey, one of my SD cards failed and I lost all those pictures. I was down to 1 SD card so I had to go buy another one. When I was in Greece, I forgot to charge both my camera batteries and I couldn’t use my DSLR on a really cool site.

So, the moral of the story is that your picture plan should entail identifying a few sites you are interested in. Knowing your camera. Backing up your photos EVERY night. And keeping your batteries charged.   

This may sound odd, but I think it’s necessary. Your trip won’t go perfectly. Something will go wrong. Hopefully, it’s not catastrophic.

If you are traveling with loved ones or with your church, talk through contingency plans for different things. Losing your bags. Losing some medication. Dropping your camera.

However things go, make a commitment to have fun. At the end of the day, you are going to the Holy Land to connect with God. So, focus on that. If you don’t get that awesome shot from the Mount of Olives, God doesn’t care. He wants you to experience Him in a new way.

Stuff closes down every Friday afternoon for Shabbat. Everything. Don’t count on landing at 2 pm because the flight was cheap and then using public transportation. You’ll get stuck with a taxi ride that will cost you the savings you got on the flight.

Some restaurants and shops stay open during Shabbat, but most close down. Jewish holidays are the same way.  

For a great rundown on Jewish holidays, check out this post by Oren of travelingisrael.com . He’s a tour guide in Israel and has a website with some pretty good information.

A money plan .

Like I said above, don’t worry about exchanging money early. But do figure out how much American cash you want to bring with you.

I recommend using a credit card as much as possible. Most banks these days have options to notify them of any travel you have planned. If your card gets stolen you just report it. If there is a fraudulent charge, you can dispute it.

When you carry cash, if it gets stolen, that’s the end of the story. If you get hustled, you lose. Cash is good for buying souvenirs in the Old City, or a Coke at the café on a site. Not a tour of the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem (note: these are scams).

Sometimes your tour leader will have an “in” with a shop owner who gives a good rate on a money exchange. Take advantage of this. They’re usually good rates.

When you exchange money, only do small amounts at a time. Don’t exchange everything all at once. You might not spend it all. And when you leave, they may only take back bills or require a certain limit. Which will throw your exchange rate plan out the window.

Never leave with foreign currency in your pocket. It’s a hassle to get rid of. For about 3 years I carried around almost $400 spread across 9 different currencies. I couldn’t get rid of it. Most were bills, but I also had a lot of coins. Many currency exchanges want a minimum amount, and they won’t take coins.

There are bins at the Ben Gurion airport where you can donate loose change to non-profit organizations. Or you can buy a Starbucks.

This is where you will lose your money. There are swindlers who will overcharge you. Or you will throw the item away in 6 months.

First, the swindlers. As Americans, we are used to fixed prices. Most non-western countries barter. Israel is generally more like America. But watch out.

This is a good reason to use a credit card. Most reputable establishments take credit cards and offer fixed prices.

Second, the trash souvenirs. Figure out who you want to get something for and what they might like. You don’t want to waste time “trying to find” something for your nephew when you have other things to see. Or getting him something he’s just going to throw away in a year.

Also, figure out what you might want to take home. The same problem applies here as did for your nephew.

Lastly, leave room in your luggage for souvenirs. The hotel doesn’t want your donated shirts in case future travelers lose their luggage. It’s going in the trash.

When I travel, I don’t get souvenirs for anyone. Not because I don’t care, but because they rarely do. I text pictures to people and send postcards to myself. It’s simple and cheap. And I don’t have to make room in my bag.

If I see a unique jewelry item that isn’t expensive, I get it for my mom. But that’s about it.

You are the one experiencing the Holy Land. It’s really hard for friends and family to get excited about a souvenir they have no context to. Those are my thoughts; your family could be different.

For a discussion on souvenirs, check out my post on the topic right here .

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15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips From Moscow

Is the hustle and bustle of Moscow starting to wear you down? No worries. There are multiple great day trips from Moscow that will let you see a different side of Russia that you won’t find in the metropolitan area. Each day trip I’ve listed below can easily be done by train from Moscow, and there are trains every day of the week.

The area surrounding Moscow is rich in cultural attractions and natural beauty. By traveling only a short distance, one feels far away from the crowds, and lines of the sprawling Russian capital. Since Russia is undoubtedly an expansive country it may take from half an hour to two hours to reach some of the landmarks on this list (by train or car) from the Moscow city center.

You can escape to the picturesque Russian countryside, visit war memorials, battlefields, admire onion-domed churches, and get insight into the local way of life. Easy day trips from Moscow include the incomparable white-stone Trinity Cathedral in Sergiyev Posad, the spectacular Cathedral of the Assumption in Dmitrov, and the Russian military aircraft in Monino. For those who love rural tranquility, Suzdal and Vladimir are a must-see. History buffs will appreciate the Patriotic War of 1812 reenactment that took place in Borodino on the first weekend of September.

Without further ado, here are 15 best day trips from Moscow that are well worth your attention.

The Best Day Trips from Moscow

There’s a reason Moscow is one of Europe’s most enigmatic destinations. It’s got culture, class, food, history, and more, but even better, is that it is the country’s main transport hub with so many attractions within a day trip from Moscow. While you can definitely spend days or even weeks in Moscow, it can, of course, be done in just one week. What can you do in Moscow in seven days ? Well, you can do a lot if you know how to plan a trip to a place you know so little about.

If you’re ready to get out of the city a bit and soak up the culture, fresh air, and enchanting architecture, I’ve rounded up my favorite day trips outside of Moscow. I often get asked: What are the best cities to visit in Russia? And these are places that I’ve been and loved.

My Favorite Easy Day Trips from Moscow:

Dmitrov Kolomna Zvenigorod Sergiyev Posad Yaroslavl Arkhangelskoye Estate Vladimir Suzdal Korolev Borodino Patriot Park in Kubinka Melikhovo Gorki Leninskie Kaluga Monino

1. Day Trip to Dmitrov from Moscow

Dmitrov may not be as popular as other cities in Russia, but the fact that the city was founded only 7 years earlier than Moscow makes for a great day trip. This small city some 90 kilometers from Moscow is particularly beautiful in the summer. As you walk the streets you can see sparkling fountains, charming centuries-old buildings, yachts and boats transiting through the canal and, of course, the Museum-Reserve Dmitrov Kremlin.

The Kremlin (castle) is the city’s main draw. The 10m high and about 1km long earthen rampart remained behind the wooden wall and gives an idea of how the castle looked like 400 years ago. The oldest surviving building on the Kremlin grounds is the 16th-century Assumption Cathedral with a unique five-tier iconostasis.

Not far from the Kremlin there is a compact 15th-century Borisoglebsky convent. Its main building – the 16th-century Cathedral of Sts. Boris and Gleb is open to the visitors only for services of worship. In the 1930s in the convent housed a labor camp, which contained the builders of the Canal named after Moscow.

Getting There: Dmitrov sits an easy hour and sixteen minutes by train from Savyelovskiy Rail Terminal. This cheap day trip from Moscow is a great chance to soak up the historic charm to be found in Moscow Oblast.

2. Day Trip to Kolomna from Moscow

Situated to the south-east of Moscow, Kolomna is a beautiful port city on the Oka River. This is one of the oldest Russian cities in the region. So you can discover the old history in museums and monasteries. Interestingly, the city was a site for important weapon factories under the Soviet Union. Although it was opened up in 1994 Kolomna is not as popular as other day-trip destinations in the region.

Nevertheless, it is a great place to visit with friends and family where you can explore the 15th-century Kremlin made of red brick, try incredibly sweet traditional pastila (marshmallow), and visit some of the cute little churches and 19th-century mansions.

Getting There: Take the express train (commuter line train) from the Kazansky rail terminal to Golutvin station. The trip lasts one hour and forty minutes.

3. Day Trip to Zvenigorod from Moscow

This one is usually a given due to its proximity to and ease of transport from Moscow. It’s one of the easiest day trips from Moscow by train. You can easily hop on the train from the city and land right in the town of Zvenigorod where you can visit the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery and sample the sparkly and refreshing kvass, a Russian specialty beverage that’s enjoyed in the summer months.

Zvenigorod is an adorable little town just under an hour away from the Moscow city and is an amazing place to visit as it will give a relaxing break from the hectic life of Moscow. Check this day trip if you don’t feel like planning.

If you have a sweet tooth, spend some time in the quirky Museum of Russian Desserts, where you can indulge in uniquely delicious treats and explore the intersection of food and culture.

Then you may want to pay the Zvenigorod Museum of History, Architecture, and Art a visit. The museum’s exposition is located on the territory of the Savvino-Storozhevsky monastery, or rather, in the 17th-century Tsaritsyny chambers, built for the wife of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich. Stroll through the museum halls to view the permanent exhibitions, which offer insights into various aspects of Russian history. The intricate museum’s building is adorned with a decorative porch, complex patterned elements, and looks very impressive in general.

4. Day Trip to Sergiyev Posad from Moscow

If you’re looking for cheap day trips from Moscow, Sergiyev Posad is a good choice at just a few dollar train ride away. Known as a major center of pilgrimage and home to one of the largest Russian Orthodox Monastery which has been here for hundreds of years, Sergiyev Posad is a fun day trip from Moscow and can be combined with Abramtsevo Museum Estate. As the only town in Moscow Region which is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities, Sergiyev Posad is an incredible destination for a day trip from Moscow that packs UNESCO-protected Trinity Sergius Lavra, great museums, and gorgeous architecture into one day.

Make sure you see the six-pillared Assumption Cathedral that was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible in mid-16th-century and go inside to marvel at the impressive iconostasis that features Simon Ushakov’s masterpiece, the icon of Last Supper. Enjoy a delicious lamb steak with wheat kasha, Ukha fish soup, or hand-made dumplings as you learn a lot about religious and cultural history.

Getting There: Known for its small-town charm and welcoming feel, you can get to Sergiyev Posad by train, by bus, or by car. Trains depart from Yaroslavsky Rail Terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts about an hour and a half. Alternatively, you can hop on a bus at the ‘VDNKh’ metro station. A bus trip to Sergiyev Posad takes two hours on average but can be reached in 90 minutes depending on traffic. If you go by car expect to spend about an hour and a half attempting to traverse the congested Yaroslavskoye highway.

5. Day Trip to Yaroslavl from Moscow

Going from Moscow to Yaroslavl may seem like a really long day trip, but honestly, if you take the comfortable train, it only takes about four hours to reach the city, so making a Yaroslavl day trip is totally doable. Although I do recommend much more than one day in Yaroslavl, especially if it’s your first time.

Cultural tourists visiting Yaroslavl should start their exploration by strolling the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A spacious 100-hectare area enclosed by Sobinova and Republican streets is home to most popular attractions – the 17th-century Church of Elijah the Prophet that survived almost exactly in its original form, and in contrast to it, the white stone Assumption Cathedral, restored in the 2000s.

If you walk a bit further passing the Holy Trinity sculpture and city’s foundation stone, you will find yourself at Strelka, a park on the cape, which offers panoramic views of the spot at the confluence of Volga and Kotorosl rivers. On the way back, there is a pleasant walk along the picturesque Volga embankment to the Governor’s Garden with shadowy alleys and an open-air Sculpture museum.

Getting There: Yaroslavl is about 280 km (173 miles) northeast of Moscow, so the best way to get there is to take a morning train from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal. A tour is also a great way to see the Yaroslavl without having to worry about driving or searching for trains. You can book a tour here.

6. Day Trip to Arkhangelskoye Estate from Moscow

Situated on the outskirts of Moscow and dates back to the late 18th-century, Arkhangelskoye Estate was the domain of the nobility for over a century until the Russian Revolution swept people who owned the estate out of the country. The estate was turned into a museum, which it remains today.

The Arkhangelskoye Estate Museum holds the largest rare-book collection. The exhibition also includes old manuscripts, historical documents, photos from the past, a vast collection of sculpture, paintings, engravings, and exceptional examples of decorative art. These art objects once belonged to Prince Nikolai Yusupov, the former owner of the estate.

Arkhangelskoye Estate is often referred to as the Russian version of Versailles because of the intricately manicured garden and beautiful 18th-century park. Famous Russian writers and poets such as Pushkin, Herzen, Mayakovsky loved to spend their free time here making long excursions in the surrounding area. Arkhangelskoye is a perfect place to appreciate the terraces decorated by delightful statues, exquisite vases, and busts.

Visitors can take tours, which introduce them to vibrant examples of Russian art and culture.

Getting There: To reach the estate it’s best to take a bus or a privately-owned minibus that departs from Tushinskaya metro station.

7. Day Trip to Vladimir from Moscow

Situated only two hours east of Moscow, Vladimir is absolutely one of the best places to visit near Moscow for a day trip. This splendid city dates back to the 12th century and has a very rich history. If magnificent Orthodox cathedrals and traditional white-stone architecture entice you, then this place is perfect for a day trip with your significant other.

First things first, you need to see the Golden Gate, which indicates the entrance into the old town. This 12th-century medieval masterpiece of military architecture is associated not only with Vladimir but with the Golden Ring tourist route itself. At the top of the gate, where once was the Church of the Deposition of the Robe, there is the Museum of Weapons. Great looking arrowheads and spear points date back to the Grand Principality of Vladimir, while the exhibition in an impressively majestic setting features a number of Batu-Khan related artifacts.

There’s a variety of attractions to put on your must-see list: the Old Believers Trinity Church right behind it, the Cathedral of St Demetrius, and Dormition (Uspensky) Cathedral. If you plan on shopping for souvenirs like birch-bark masterpieces of Kunov’s masters, drawings, carving, embossing, figures of people and animals, stop by the Lacquer Miniature, the Museum of Crystal, and the Gingerbread Museum. Many of the local attractions were added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.

Getting There: The best way to visit this area is to catch an early train from Moscow and book a full-day tour of Vladimir in advance. This one includes the town of Suzdal as well.

8. Day Trip to Suzdal from Moscow

This gem of a little medieval town perched on a hill just a 30-minute ride from Vladimir is one of those places I’ve visited and could move there permanently and be happy! It’s a charming little piece of history that also has a Kremlin and visiting it feels like stepping back in time. if you’re a culture enthusiast you’ll be glad to know there are numerous churches, five monasteries, including Spaso-Yevfimiev Monastery in Suzdal. Check them out if you want to get a real taste of the country!

pend some time shopping at the Torgovaya ploshchad (Market Square), where you can buy baskets made of birch bark, ceramic handmade plates, honey or souvenirs and, of course, grab some afternoon tea!

Getting There: Trains leave regularly from Moscow’s Kurskiy Rail Terminal to Vladimir where you can hop on a bus to Suzdal. You can also take a bus from Moscow. In this case, it might take longer and you’ll probably encounter infamous traffic jams. If you go by express train the trip takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. There are slower trains of course, but I’d recommend going with the fast one and save a lot of time!

9. Day Trip to Korolev from Moscow

Located some 30 kilometers northeast of Moscow, Korolev has become arguably the most important space research center with skilled workers from across the Soviet Union who came here to expand the space program.

It became a leading institute dedicated to aerospace research in the country. Today, that tendency can still be clearly seen on the streets and in the buildings. When the Soviet Union collapsed, the city retained its status as the headquarters of Russia’s space surveillance network and now it hosts the Russian Mission Control Center, an analogue of the American Mission Control Center at NASA’s Space Center in Houston.

If you want to learn more about Mission Control Center and the former Russian Mir space station, book a tour with a knowledgeable guide who can clearly tell the history of this place.

If you’re not into space exploration there is also a Memorial Apartment Museum of Marina Tsvetaeva in Bolshevo. With a picturesque park next to the museum, it’s a great place for walking in the fresh air. The highlight of the park is memorial stones with quotes from Tsvetaeva’s poems.

Getting There: I’d recommend going by train. Catch one at Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal that departs every 30 minutes to reach Bolshevo station.

10. Day Trip to Borodino from Moscow

The historic Battle of Borodino on September 7, 1812, took place just outside the small village of Borodino, about 140 km west of Moscow, and about 15 km from the nearest town of Mozhaysk. Although the French won the Battle of Borodino and went to capture Moscow, it was one of the bloodiest battles of the pre-twentieth-century that is also predetermined Napoleon’s defeat.

While it was a battlefield back then, not much remains today. It’s mostly a green and grassy field now with a few monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to 19th and 20th century, and fortification facilities scattered throughout the area. The largest of these is the 27-meter high obelisk located right at the heart of the former battlefield.

Every year the military and patriotic festival and theatrical performance take place in Borodino. Early September is considered to be the best for visiting. But if you just want to feel the spirit of the battle, it’s better to go at any other time of the year.

Getting there: Hop on a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, disembark in Mozhaysk, and then take a bus to the museum. The whole travel time is about 2 hours.

11. Day Trip to Patriot Park in Kubinka from Moscow

Once a Red Army tank training ground, now it’s a military Disneyland with history, structure, guns, and armored vehicles! The tank museum originally housed one of the world’s largest and rarest collections of tanks. In 2016 they combined the training grounds with the newly-created Patriot Park. Since then, some of the notable and rare items have been moved to the Patriot Park site, so you may want to combine both sites into one tour (only about 20 minutes apart).

The exhibition grounds include some very rare specimens that are must-see for any military enthusiasts out there. The staff is friendly, helpful and kind, while the museum has a small shop. As this site is part of an operating military base, they may ask you to show your passport, or provide them with a photocopy of the front pages. There are vending machines for snacks and drinks, and there are bathroom facilities. There’s plenty to see, so I recommend setting aside an entire day!

Getting there: Situated halfway between Borodino and Moscow, the best way to reach Patriot Park in Kubinka is by car. Alternatively, if you don’t want to rent one, consider car-sharing apps like Gett or UBER. The price of ride-sharing services is cheap enough to make them a viable proposition for choosing them.

12. Day Trip to Melikhovo from Moscow

Located some 80 km from Moscow, Melikhovo is one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov. This renowned Russian writer and playwright acquired Melikhovo in 1892. He lived there with his parents and close relatives for 7 years before moving to the Crimea in 1899. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “The Man in the Case” and “The Seagull”.

The estate faded into oblivion right after the Revolution but in 1939 Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew established a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. The museum opened its doors to the public in 1941.

Today museum’s exhibition reveals the legacy of a celebrated writer and shows his path not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. The collection also features some of the best-known paintings by famous artists like Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends. When it comes to fun and educational day trips from Moscow, Melikhovo is a nice place for learning more about Chekov’s life and work.

Getting There: You can reach Melikhovo by train from Kurskiy rail Terminal. Disembark in the town of Chekhov and hop on a minibus that will get to the estate. Alternatively, hop on a bus that departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station.

13. Day Trip to Gorki Leninskie from Moscow

Once the realm of Russian nobles, Gorki Leninskie was turned into Lenin’s museum some 25 years after his death. The estate sits some 30-minute bus ride from the Domodedovskaya metro station and houses Soviet-era memorabilia and Lenin’s memorial flat recently transferred from the Kremlin, as well as his vintage Rolls-Royce.

Most people only associate this place with the name of the first communist leader. In fact, the name of the estate was first mentioned in documents dating back to the 16th-century. Throughout its history, the estate was owned by a number of prominent figures. It’s in fact one of the best museums that holds the country’s finest collection 19th-century furnishings and a unique collection of domestic items owned by nobles. Plus, ancient Vyatichi native tribe or East Slavs who inhabited a part of the Oka basin’s burial mounds and a few notable sculptures are hidden behind the avenues of lime trees in the park.

Getting There: You could, of course, hop on a bus from Domodedovskaya metro station. But it would be much easier just to use UBER or Gett. The estate isn’t that far from the Moscow Circle Road but going there by bus may involve some navigating.

14. Day Trip to Kaluga from Moscow

If you’re looking for an educational day trip from Moscow, look no farther than Kaluga! This beautiful city could really entertain you for more than just a day, but to get a taste of science, be sure to visit the Tsiolkovsky State Museum of the History of Cosmonautics. Or in other words, the Space Museum.

Visitors to the museum will learn more about the history of space exploration. In fact, this is one of the largest Space Museums in Russia, which opened its doors in Kaluga in 1967. Here you can see a prototype of the iconic MIR space station and a duplicate of the Voskhod rocket. The very same rocket that took the first man to space. There’s also a planetarium, which from the outside resembles a spaceship.

Kaluga is a totally walkable city. Make sure to spend some time strolling Teatralnaya street with the authentic 19th-century pavement that now marks the Kilometer Zero. Then walk across the 18th-century Kamenniy Most (the Stone Bridge) that somewhat resembles a Roman aqueduct. If you’re an architecture buff marvel at the Church of St. Cosmas and Damian.

It is assumed that the church was erected by one of the followers of Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli in 1794. The church resembles the Smolny Convent in St. Petersburg. With five church towers directed upward and six tiers of oblong windows give the exterior a sense of lightness and airiness.

Getting There: Trains from Kiyevsky Rail Terminal to Kaluga leave every 90 minutes. The trip takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes.

15. Day Trip to Monino from Moscow

Are you looking for great family & kid-friendly day trips from Moscow? If so, consider visiting the Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino. This unique military open-air museum is home to over 180 Russian aircraft and 100 aircraft engines and the perfect place to go when your crowd is looking for a break from hectic city life. Check this tour if you don’t feel like planning.

This site was formerly an operational airbase from 1932 till 1956 and many of the Russian aviation Design bureaus have made a contribution to the operation and maintenance of the museum. Along with aircraft from the Second World War, there are the TU-95 Bear four-engine turboprop-powered strategic bomber and the TU-144 Charger a Soviet supersonic passenger airliner (which resembled the Concorde). The museum also has exhibits related to military aviation history such as the uniform of captured U2 pilot Gary Powers.

Getting There: This museum is located at Monino Town, about 30 km from Moscow. It is open on all days from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except Mondays and Tuesdays. To get there take a train departing from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal and disembark at Monino station. Alternatively, hop on a bus from Schelkovskaya or Partizanskaya metro station.

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Moscow

I hope this post has helped you discover some amazing day trips from Moscow. From imposing cathedrals, mighty fortresses and monasteries, there are a lot of incredible places to visit the Russian capital, and the best part is that getting there is always ways to get around on the cheap.

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Great article for visitors in Moscow , thanks for sharing

Marie Hernandez

I hadn’t considered traveling to Moscow until NOW! Fantastic post and ideas for visitors! Thanks!

Graham Marsden

Nice to see so many options outside of Moscow, but I have to say I wish this list had a recommendation for a hike or a beautiful natural areas or national parks. Maybe the next list!

I have to admit that I knew nothing about the area surrounding Moscow. This is definitely an inspiring list of places to go.

When I read this article about Moscow. I wanted to pack my bags and get there sooner. thank you for the great write up.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.