The summer sun beats down on the tiles of Tuscany. Flags and banners sway in the breeze. Men and women garbed in the colours of their ward pageant around a city that looks a lot like a theatrical backdrop. Troupes and fanfares, jesters and damsels; the Palio is quite a spectacle. Twice a year in Siena, the city steps back in time and puts on one of the greatest shows on Earth. Ten horses, ten riders, one prize. And to get you in the mood, we’ve conjured up a unique Tuscan holiday to get you closer to the action than you ever thought you could.

the excitment at the starting line

the best seat in the city

Siena heaves during the Palio. The streets swell with locals all vying for a glimpse of the gallop. In a tradition almost as old as the race itself, it’s only through straining the sinews like the winning steed that you’re guaranteed a peep of the action. Well, that’s usually the way things pan out. This time, things are going to be a little different. On the afternoon of the race, we’ll spirit you away from the hustle and bustle of the Piazza del Campo, taking you to an exclusive room overlooking ‘La mossa’ – the startline, to enjoy your private lookout. This is the climax of the festivities and where the drama of the Palio starts. Just below you, nine horses await bareback, their riders primed for action, hooves scuffing the earth until the tenth pair bolts through the line and the race begins. Three terrifying laps ensue, as passion boils and partisan locals goad their riders to victory.

see the race from above

meet the champions

Amid the frenzy of victory and disappointment, the winner will be presented the ‘drappellone’ –the banner that marks out the champion. As everyone knows, Italian traditions are fiercely protected and outsiders are rarely afforded the opportunity to see beyond the facade. We’ve opened up our little black book to make sure your experience doesn’t stop with everyone else’s. After the race, you’ll be treated to an exclusive visit to the museum of the winning Contrada (ward) – a shrine to local tradition, past victories and local rivalries. Celebrate victory with your adoptive ward at the Contrada aperitif. This is a unique opportunity to get under the skin of an iconic medieval tradition and experience it in a way few will ever get the chance to.

tuscan pleasures

the spectacular duomo in siena

Make the most of your time in Siena and explore the duomo and the city’s marvellous piazze. Take in the Renaissance masterpieces of the Sienese School, sample exquisite Tuscan wine and soak up the atmosphere of this warm, convivial region. You’re just a stone’s throw from Florence and no trip to Tuscany would be complete without a visit to the Uffizi Gallery, the Pitti Palace and the city’s emblematic cathedral. Whatever takes your fancy, let us know and we’ll put together the perfect experience just for you.

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1. city buzz and vineyards in south africa
2. alternative reefs & world-class wine
3. beach and backwaters in kerala

We know the feeling. Acre after acre of Australian outback and nothing to calm your growling belly but a length of biltong and a bag of bush food. Well, think again. South of the mainland and fast-developing a reputation for world-class cuisineand fine wine, Tasmania is the travelling gourmand’s southern Valhalla, a mouth-watering Mecca, our current favourite place of plenty. We’ve put together a very special whistle stop tour of the Island’s capital Hobart, four days of oysters, culture and award-winning whisky straight from the cask. You’re in for a treat.
the bay is your oyster

delicious shucked oysters

On your first day in Hobart we’ll take you to Barilla Bay for an exclusive introduction to oyster farming in Tasmania. This farm has come a long way since its humble tin-shed beginnings and today boasts an excellent restaurant and oyster shop – perfect for that special gift (panic not, they’re specially wrapped to bring back home). In such an immaculate setting it’s easy to see why the oysters here taste so good. But don’t take our word for it, try the ‘Shucking Awesome’ platter at the Bay’s restaurant for a taste of Tassie you’ll never forget.
Next, head to Sullivan’s Cove and Battery Point for a window (or a porthole) onto the region’s maritime history, visible in the eclectic mix of architecture that ranges from proud colonial mansions to small wooden cottages. With all those seagulls gliding above the waterfront, you probably fancy a bird’s eye view of the city yourself. We’ll take you to the summit of Mount Wellington for panoramic vistas of Hobart before whisking you off to the gorgeous Henry Jones Hotel, your boutique base for the next four days.

set sail in tasmania

cruising through hobart

For a touch of Tasmania at its most rugged (think landscape and history), we’ve got a whole host of options to keep you busy. Heading through Tasman National Park, Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck, breathe in the gorgeous fresh air and keep your eyes peeled for albatross, dolphins and the heart-melting Australian fur seal. Wildlife heaven you might think. Now, no trip to Hobart would be complete without hitting the waters by sail, so why not enjoy a private sailing trip down the Derwent. Cruise from waterfront Hobart out into the she-oak banks and reedy shallows that dot the water throughout the southern countryside. From wildlife to cruising the sea, we’ll get you out of your boating shoes and into something a little more substantial with a privately planned wander round the spectacular Mt. Field National Park or up and down the slopes of Mt. Wellington.
art, culture and tasmanian devils
There’s no better way to understand a country than through its culture, so we’ve organised an exclusive introduction to Hobart’s art scene just for you. The old merchant warehouses around and about the waterfront accommodate art studios and workshops as well as boutiques, cafes and restaurants. With our guide on the ground, peruse the galleries of Salamanca Place and encounter work by some of Tasmania’s finest artists before a very special lunch break at the Moorilla Estate. Sample the modern cuisine and fine wine at The Source restaurant before continuing your art tour at the mind blowing Museum of Old and New Art on the Moorilla Estate.

cheeky (tasmanian) devils

From Tasmania’s finest art, we’ll turn your attention to its cutest wildlife because you can’t come this far south without saying g’day to a real Tasmanian Devil. We’ve put together an exclusive evening tour of Bonorong Wildlife Park. As night falls and the nocturnal species awake, you’ll make the acquaintance of countless new furry friends, as well as witnessing firsthand the dedication and care that makes such a big difference to the conservation of Australia’s wildlife.

sample award-winning whisky straight from the barrel

larking around in the cellar
Your last day in Hobart and in the company of your expert guide, you’ll sample some of Australia’s finest whiskies. Yep, that’s right, whiskey. Starting with a welcome drink at Hobart’s original distillery, your whiskey trail will lead you to the Coal River Valley. Here you’ll learn all there is to know about the history of Single Malt Whisky and be taken through the first steps in the brewing process. But if you’re in the mood for the more finer produce of grapes, then we’ll make way for Meadowbank Winery, a beautifully situated estate and home to some award-winning vintages. Sample from the cellars and enjoy a lovely lunch before that promised taster session back at the Lark Distillery, the perfect way to reflect on your sumptuous sojourn before we whisk you from the whisky, off to the airport and home.
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1. alternative reefs & world-class wine
2. rajasthan old and new
3. ancient ruins and hip hangouts

Sharks and penguins, buzzing cities, lush winelands, world-famous mountain-top views, and unbeatable game-packed safaris: South Africa has it all. Taste some of the world’s finest wines in Franschhoek, swim with the world’s most feared predator, watch top-class game in the Madikwe Reserve, and admire the unmissable views of stylish Cape Town, and all in complete luxury, of course. On our Cape Town adventure, look forward to:

• seeing whales, penguins and more on stunning Atlantic beaches

• swimming with great white sharks

• jetting around the cape of storms on a powerboat

• hitting the dizzying heights of Table Mountain by riding the 360-degree rotating cable car

Read more about this trip…

city buzz in cape town

In a competition for the world’s best all-round city, Cape Town is definitely up there. From sunbathing on the hip beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay to abseiling down the mighty Table Mountain (or even flying over in a Fighting Jet), to hitting the best of the sun-fixed New Years Eve parties. Whatever you want to do, we can arrange. For a mind-blowing, snap-happy beach expedition, head to Cape Point and share the beach with native African penguins: not your average day at the seaside. And for spectacular service and discerning style, the luxurious One & Only has the lot.

franschhoek winelands

feast in franschhoek

With beautiful tree-lined streets, local galleries and boutique shops, not to mention gourmet food, Franschhoek is the gastronomic home of South Africa. We will arrange private tastings for you with first class wine makers at local vineyards. Go on, excite your taste buds. Stay at The Last Word Franschhoek, a small, intimate and stylish boutique, where fine wine is top of the agenda. And to counterbalance the indulgences of the day, grab mountain bikes and experience the winelands in a more energetic way.

kalahari desert cat

madikwe safari

And finally, head to the Madikwe Game Reserve, one of South Africa’s largest game reserves holding everything from lions and leopards to the rare African wild dog.  Spend three days with some of the best guides in the continent, seeking out cheetahs, spotted hyenas and the critically endangered Black Rhino. Horseback and walking safaris are possible too. Your private suite at Makanyane is the ultimate in secluded luxury. Built by award winning architects, the views over the Marico River are stunning –  the perfect way to end the trip of a lifetime.

Interested in taking a trip to South Africa? Fill in the form below to tell us what you have in mind.

aerial shot of capetown

remote luxury at tswalu

tswalu wildlife

table bay sunset

kalahari experience to remember

tswalu giraffe

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1. india: from city to safari
2. city chic and luxury swags in sydney
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Bordered by the Thar desert and seeped in history, Rajasthan is an Indian state full of intrigue and adventure. This 11-night experience takes you from the bustling centre of Delhi to the historic cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur.

jaipur

Along the way, you’ll ride elephants at sunset, enjoy hot air balloons at sunrise, and take ziplines over majestic forts. With incredible new and heritage properties to enjoy, teamed with tip top service from our guys on the ground, this is a luxurious Indian adventure like no other.

royal jaipur

Arriving in the royal city of Jaipur, you’ll be struck by its wide streets, elaborate architecture and grand palaces. The luxurious and historic hotel Samode Haveli will be your base for three nights, from where your privately guided tour of the city will start.

Included in this trip is an early start: seeing the city by hot air balloon in the fresh morning air is not to be missed. One evening you’ll be taken in a private vehicle to Dera Amer for an elephant ride, followed by an exclusive dinner.

the walled city in jodhpur

In your free time, choose to relax by the mirror-like pool of your hotel, or use the car which will be at your disposal. Want to shop? No problem. We’ll provide you with a personally designed itinerary to suit your interests.

get high in jodhpur

The sprawling city of Jodhpur is known for its blue buildings and long hours of bright sunshine, and it’s your next port of call. A scenic 6 hour journey will bring you to your drop-off point, where a tuk-tuk will take you into the walled city and to your hotel. Brand new design hotel Raas, which sits under the majestic Meherangarh Fort (one of the most impressive in the world) will be your home for two nights.

take a zipline over meherangarh fort

While staying at the only hotel in the old town, we highly recommend you explore the fort on foot, before catching the view from above. We’ll arrange for you to enjoy a zipline journey around the fort, taking you to parts of the structure usually cut off to the public, making this a truly unique Indian experience. Head through secret tunnels and see turrets, parks and gardens from a bird’s perspective. Simply stunning.

After all this excitement, you will have built up quite an appetite, so make the most of the restaurants recommended by the Black Tomato concierge, and tuck into sumptuous local cuisine in town.

gallop through the desert

No trip to Rajasthan would be complete without horse riding. Just 45 minutes out of town lies Rohet, on the edge of the Thar desert, where you’ll find the luxurious fort of Mihir Garh: your base for two nights.

your mud palace in the thar desert

Spend two days on a magnificent Marwari horse, taking you from the fort out into the dunes for trekking through breathtaking scenery you’ll never forget. Back at base after a hard day’s gallop, your hot tub will await you ready to soothe any aching muscles.

palatial spas in udaipur

Once your riding itch has been well and truly scratched, you’ll be collected for a long scenic drive to Udaipur for three nights of palatial splendour. Devi Garh is not only our favourite super-luxe palace-turned-hotel, but also a fantastic spot for more action: here you can chose to borrow mountain bikes and kites for flying, or enjoy the spa and practise yoga in its birthplace. We’ll include a guided tour of the back streets of Udaipur, during your final relaxing days, before catching your flight home.

the thar desert

meherangarh fort and the blue buildings of jodhpur

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sundown on the deck

Here at Black Tomato we’ve succumbed to the call of nature to let our imaginations run wild (quite literally), and our thoughts drift off to the sun drenched savannas of South Africa. Indulge in some world renowned wildlife viewing at the gorgeous Makanyane Safari Lodge, the epitome of safari-chic, during our African wine & wildlife experience.

your hideaway

The rustic yet elegant Safari Lodge lies in a lush riverside forest, in the heart of the magnificent 75,000 hectare Madikwe Game Reserve. (Think vast stretches of open grass lands interrupted by rocky outcrops and indigenous vegetation). Easily accessible from Johannesburg, via charter flight or road transfer, Makanyane is the perfect spot to really get away from it all, amidst spectacular wildlife and that lovable laid back South African spirit.

luxurious bath tub

a design haven

At the Makanyane contemporary style blends seamlessly with the surrounding natural features, creating an idyllic haven to rest your head after an exhilarating day in the bush. Designed by a team of award winning architects, the lodge itself consists of eight luxurious suites, with sweeping views overlooking the tranquil Marico River, where passing herds of elephants can be seen escaping the midday sun. (Not your average view…) Think rustic African textures meeting modern luxury and comfort, with heavy teak doors and large glass windows, making for some pretty epic star gazing. Accommodating a maximum of only 16 guests at a time ensures an exclusive and intimate experience. Just how we like it. Our favourite feature, though, would have to be the opportunity to soak in your irresistibly large roll-top tub, surrounded by the call of wild…

the wild neighbours

With a myriad of animals and bird life surrounding the lodge it’s the perfect place to get up close and personal with the African wildlife. Head out into the wilderness in your own jeep, with your knowledgeable guide to hand to educate you on the local flora and fauna.  For those looking for a more intrepid safari experience, you can follow in the footsteps of the animals as you embark on a tailor-made tracking safari to truly appreciate the beauty and stillness of the African bush.

tea on the deck

african r’n'r

After an exhilarating day in the great outdoors, treat yourself to a massage at the bush spa, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, it’s the perfect end to an action packed day.

And the best part, we hear you say? The hidden outlook posts perched amongst the tree tops allowing for the best views of the dramatic African sunsets. With a chilled glass of South Africa’s best tipple in hand, watch as the sun sink below the horizon, before heading back down to earth to sample impeccable cuisine served under the night sky.

Book this hotel as part of our African wine & wildlife experience.

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We’ve uncovered an Andalusian gem just for you, the Finca Cortesin. The hotel is a spectacular destination within itself, situated a short drive from the picture perfect Andalusian town of Casares. A couple of nights here will have you totally refreshed, having forgotten all the worries of the world.

duquesa marina

In the afternoon why not take a short trip beyond the hotel grounds to explore the streets or Casares and the classic white washed sugar cube houses surrounding the Moorish castle. Eat in one of the nearby restaurants where you can enjoy traditional tapas. From there continue your journey down to the port town of Duquesa that hugs the coast line of Costa del Sol. Duquesa is a quaint little marina with only 300 berths where you can stroll along the waterfront and pop into a bar for sunset drinks. Andalusia is the birthplace of the world famous artist, Pablo Picasso, and a trip worth taking would be to the Plaza de la Merced in the heart of Malaga. Not only can you view numerous works of Picasso’s infamous style, but the building is full of artefacts from the beginning of Picasso’s home and cultural life.

kite surfing in tarifa

Alternatively you can drive down the coast to enjoy the day kitesurfing at Tarifa, or explore the nearby shops and bars of Marbella. But if you’d rather get back to nature venture out behind the hills of Marbella to the Sierra de las Nieves national park. The park centres on Mount Torrecilla which soars over 1,909m above sea level. A hike around the park will take you pass deep ravines and spectacular cliffs which appear to drop off the face of the earth. But be careful where you tread as the limestone nature of the earth has created a number of potholes and its here you’ll find the worlds third deepest at 1,100meters.

take it easy by the pool

If you feel like taking full advantage of the hotel facilities, go for a round on the spectacular golf course, or visit the luxury spa where you can soak in the natural indoor pool before indulging in a treatment. After relaxing in the sauna you can cool down in the ice room (an artificial igloo and the only one in Spain) before changing to dine in one of the fantastic hotel restaurants for an unforgettable end to your day.

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One of the first nations in history to document wine production, Israel’s rich past is literally drenched in wine-filled stories. If you ask us, this means that it would almost be rude not to indulge in a little vino-focused activity while you’re visiting.

On this seven-day trip, our expert guide will show you the best boutique vineyards, take you on fascinating walks through cities and mountains and explain the history behind some of the iconic structures and places which make this country so unique.

jaffa harbour

jaffa and tel aviv

Start in the old city of Jaffa, a pretty sun-bleached port full of atmosphere and restaurants with sea views. Celebrate your first night at an exclusive wine bar for your first taste of Israeli wine. Your holiday may have just started, but try not to over-do it, there is plenty more to come. Your first night will be spent at the super stylish Montefiore, from who’s central location, the city is your oyster.

The next day you’ll be guided to Carmel market, where a spot of haggling is in order, followed by more local wine tasting. Stop for lunch at the Biniamina winery, and walk it off in the picturesque streets of Zichron Yaacov, overlooking the Med. Tonight’s bolthole is the luxurious Villa Carmel in the city if Haifa.

the bahai gardens

night fishing on the sea of galilee

glorious galilee

After exploring the city, including the UNESCO gardens of Bahai, and the artistic Arab neighbourhood of Wadi Nisnas, it’s time to escape the city and head north. The scenic northern province of Galilee is home to many vineyards and stunning views which have been compared to Tuscany. Check in to the super-luxurious Bayit Bagalil for two nights and spend this time exploring the Sea of Galillee by boat, visiting olive mills, and topping off each day sipping the region’s finest vintages at boutique wineries where the owners will welcome you for dinner.

jerusalem's western wall and dome of the rock

jerusalem days

In Jerusalem, Israel’s capital and largest city, you’ll find pockets of stunning cobbled streets with white washed buildings and stone archways: stroll along these and you’ll feel like you’re back in biblical times. Stay at the Mamilla hotel by night, and by day you’ll see the lot. Climb Mount Scopus and look out over the city from the botanical garden, get lost in the old city and visit markets to indulge in traditonal baked food with spices. Another must is a cable car ride up to the Masada plateau on the edge of the Jordanian desert: the views over the Dead Sea are simply jaw-dropping.

visit wine cellars in jerusalem

For a more serious delve into the past, your guide will show you the Yad VeShem (Israel’s National Memorial and Holocaust museum) and even a walk around the government buildings if you wish. Then, hop on a jeep around the Yoav Yehuda area, stopping at monasteries, cheese farms and continuing your luxury tour of boutique wineries on your Israeli wine tasting experience, in between resting by your pool and admiring the lush views.
You’ll return home with knowledge of a country mysterious to most, and a few bottles of local wine in tow which, we guarantee, won’t last long once you’re back in the daily grind.

Back to more Israel experiences

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1. see ace archaeology in style
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You don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate the incredibly unique and globally significant history behind the small country of Israel. This experience gives you just the right amount of expert guiding and relaxation in luxury hotels to enjoy a week in our new favourite Middle Eastern gem. Our VIP guides are experts in archaeology and will give you fascinating renditions of Israel’s history.

tel aviv at night

independence and boho life

Arriving in Tel Aviv, settle in to the atmospheric Montefiore hotel and head off for your first historical foray. Sarona was the site of the first Christian colony in Israel, and is home to the Independence Hall, where the independence of the country was read out in 1948. Explore the area before heading to the artistic neighbourhood of Neve Tzedek for some bohemian education.

Over the next two day’s you’ll discover truly inspiring sights during this luxury historical holiday through Israel, which bring the country’s history to life.

see incredibly well-preserved mosaics

See the fortress of Apollonia, where flags stand today in memory of the crusader battle in 1191 BC, as well as an original 3000 seat Roman theatre in Caesarea, admire views from Haifa’s mount Carmel and stroll the Persian gardens surrounding the Bahai shrine.

mosaics and markets

Haggle to your heart’s content at the White market in Akko, so named because of its white limestone walls. See stunning mosaic floors of 6th century Byzantine churches, visit the village of Peki’in to learn about the fascinating Druze culture, and witness the guard city of Megiddo, where the battle of Armageddon is said to have taken place, according to religious scripts. All this, while staying in fabulous luxury properties, such as Villa Carmel.

white walls in akko

luxury hotels and ancient artefacts

On to Jerusalem and into the old city. You’ll stay in the chic Mamilla hotel for three nights, where the pool and spa will be welcome after a busy day exploring. Burrow into the Kotel tunnels by the Western Wall and continue to the Wohl museum of archaeology: a six-house compound where the mosaic floors, colourful frescoes, glassware, stone objects, and ceramics provide a peek into domestic life at the top in the days of Herod and Jesus. We love the energy in the bazaars here too: Bedouin rugs and wall hangings are piled up beside fruit and sandals.

city of david

On your last day, see the Dead Sea scrolls on display at the Israel Museum, before being escorted to the City of David at the heart of town, where you’ll see the most ancient artefacts of so far. Here we recommend meeting up with our expert archaeologist who can take you into the narrow Hezakia Tunnel to see the inscriptions dating back to 701 BC, and can still be seen today. Simply fascinating.

After soaking up all this significant history (and a healthy dose of sunshine), you’ll head home with a head full of stories which you’re friends won’t believe.

See more Israel experiences

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If the idea of Israel conjures images of slowly touring museums and crumbling sights, think again. This seven night itinerary takes you from the cities deep into the Negev desert, and will have your heart pumping as you roar through the sand in a 4×4, explore deep canyons and finish it off with a soak in the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea.

zodiac signs

old jaffa at night

After settling into the stylish Montefiore hotel in hip party capital Tel Aviv, you’ll set off on a night tour of the Old Jaffa, one of the world’s oldest port cities, where at night the large stone walls are lit to expose every grain. Explore the narrow alleys (each is named after a Zodiac sign) where you’ll stumble across art studios, galleries and shops selling intricate jewellery and trinkets.

dessert bliss

Arriving in Eilat after a short flight, you’ll be met by your open air 4X4 to take you off road on the dry Negev Plateau. There is something about going off road that gets us all excited, and on this desert excursion you’ll be driven to some jaw dropping canyons that put Petra to shame. The red layered walls of these Red and Eteq canyons have been smoothed by the coarse desert winds making great passages for you to stroll through. From here, head towards the Arava Valley where salt pools bring life to the arid lands, and offer the perfect haven for migrating flamingos.

the gorgeous terrain of timna valley

Next up on your Israeli adventure, drive towards the Timna Valley for lunar landscapes in reds, sandy beiges and dusky blacks, and the huge red-hued Solomon’s Pillars – a 20 foot high freestanding mushroom you won’t forget. Staying at a kibbutz overnight, you’ll have a truly authentic (but still comfortable) experience of Israel.

spicy routes and salty seas

In your 4X4, you’ll next re-live the spice route of the Nabateans, a group of Arab commercial nomads who trekked across the Negev with their camels. Stop off at archaeological sites and ruins before reaching the dramatic Ramon Crater: an open window into the creation of Earth. Its walls are made up of multi colour layers of rock beds embedded with history as it contains fossils of shells, plants and trees.

heavy salt deposits on shore of the dead sea

Time to wash off the sand and pamper yourself at the Dead Sea. Getting its name from its high salt concentration, which means nothing can survive in its waters, this sea (more importantly) means
you’ll float like a rubber duck. So rub some of the detoxifying mud on yourself, grab a book, float back and relax before making your way to Jerusalem.

jerusalem

For some urban adventure, Jerusalem is the perfect spot. Hole up in ultra luxurious hotel Mamilla with breathtaking views of the Old City walls, the Tower of David and Jaffa gates. Discover the beautifully resorted limestone houses and narrow alleys of the Jewish Quarter accented with bright flowers hanging from windows above. Fancy some shopping? Around the corner is the Machaneh Yehuda Market, the largest and busiest market in Israel.

the beautiful architecture of jerusalem

Here you’ll find everything from fruit and vegetables and traditional Israeli snacks to menorahs and barber shops. Continue your urban adventure in the ancient City of David, Jerusalem’s core, where you’ll touch history in the Hezekiah’s tunnel built over 2,000 years ago. Once used to supply water to the city, squeeze and wade your way through the narrow tunnel that winds and bends for over 500 metres from one side of the city to the other. Talk about getting under the skin of an ancient city.

See more Israel experiences

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Rich atmosphere, heady beachlife, bustling shopping streets, markets, and hip bohemian neighbourhoods make Tel Aviv a multi-layered city with something for everyone. As well as Israel’s huge religious significance, its second largest city has firmly positioned itself as a hotspot for incredible nightlife, shopping, architecture and art – and we can arrange the best private guides for you.

shenkin street

Hole up in a boutique hotel in the iconic White City for a long weekend: away from the noise of the seafront, so you can be sure of undisturbed sleep… if that’s what you’re after. The Montefiore is a fresh, contemporary boutique hotel housing a local art gallery and a private library. Perfect for your luxury weekend in Tel Aviv.

bustling markets and coffee spots

From the designer shops of Shenkin Street, rich in cafés serving traditional coffee to linger over, to the boho Yemenite Quarter and the fortified port of Jaffa, the diversity here is unmissable. If shopping is on your to-do list but designer price tags aren’t, don’t miss Carmel Market: narrow avenues of stalls selling everything from fresh fruit to exotic spices and clothes. Perfect if you’re in the mood for a spot of haggling with a good-humoured stall keeper. Want to see city with an expert guide? We’ll arrange for the best locals guides to show you anything you’re into, from shopping to architecture, art and more.

see bauhaus buildings in the white city

deep in the bauhaus

Start your insider’s tour of Tel Aviv with a day’s expert guiding around the city’s architecture. Explore White City, home to the world’s largest collection of Bauhaus buildings, showing the German influences from 1930s such as world-famous Le Corbusier. Your architecture guide will also show you around the Neve Tzedek, which is now one of the city’s most stylish areas. Many artists and musicians live inside these restored houses, which are unique with their pastel colours, large archways and romantic balconies. Another must-see is Sorona, a heritage sight where some of the earliest wineries were established by templars nearly two centuries ago. Simply fascinating.

views of the city

art masters and contemporary buying

For those art-lovers amongst you, spend a day immersing yourself in local galleries. Head to Gordon Street, the original hub of Tel Aviv galleries and the perfect spot for some serious art gazing, or buying. Your art guide will show you small undiscovered gems of local and contemporary art, as well as taking you around the Tel Aviv Art museum. Next, it’s time to see where the masters worked their magic: the Rubin Museum was once the home of Israeli painter Rueven Rubin, and Bailik House was home to Isreal’s national poet Chaim Nachman Bailik, both of which your guide knows inside out.

tel aviv's sea front is varied

beach life and crumbling ports

Want to escape the urban jungle? Stroll the seafront from the shiny new marina and along the sandy beaches which stretch all the way from north to south. Head south to the historic port town of Jaffa (yes, where the oranges come from), where sun-bleached castles and turreted doorways greet you beside fabulous sea views. The slower pace here is ideal for a relaxing stroll through Ottoman-influenced architecture and newer artists quarter. Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking the shimmering med, or why not watch a sunset melt into the twinkling night?

historic jaffa at night

After all your private guiding, you’ll feel fully knowledgeable and cultured, so it’s time to refuel. Your guide will show you the best traditional falafel: simply delicious fresh and hot wrapped in traditional flatbread. Or, for something a little bit more special, visit any of the city’s world-class restaurants before partying hard along the seafront. Our in-the-know concierge will point you towards the newest, most cutting edge venues so you can really experience the Mediterranean ‘city that never sleeps’ in style.

See more Israel experiences

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