Excursion Herod’s dream - caesarea maritime tour at Haifa

Among the abundance of tourist sites that relate the story of ancient Israel is the magnificent story of Caesarea Maritime.

Depart Haifa Port and ascend Mount Carmel for a breath-taking view of Haifa Bay, the golden dome of Haifa's Baha'i Shrine and Acre in the distance.

Caesarea (Archeological Site)

Drive along Via Maris to Caesarea and visit the ancient port city built by Herod the Great on the ruins of an ancient anchorage known as Stratton's tower. He named it Caesarea in honour of his Roman patron, Augustus Caesar. In 66 C.E., in Caesarea, which was the capital of the country during the Roman period, the Jews of the city raised the revolt against Rome, touching off the Jewish war. Caesarea became an important Christian centre that was alternatively conquered by Moslems and Crusaders until it was destroyed at the end of the thirteenth century. Among the magnificent array of archaeological finds at the site are restored Crusaders fortifications, a Byzantine street and a Roman Theatre.

A walk among the ruins cannot be complete without observing the splendid 'Travel Through Time' displays that combine to recreate a city being reawakened in front of your eyes. Then continue to the Tower of Time, where you can take a virtual tour of the city, enter buildings and visit the streets, even participate in various activities such as horse racing in the Hippodrome, performances in the theatre, roaming around the market booths, and receiving ships arriving at the port, all of which tangibly and powerfully indicate Caesarea's importance throughout the ages.

After your visit, re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Caesarea, Crusaders' Fortification, Byzantine Street and Roman Theater, Travel Through Time displays

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking and is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests utilizing a wheelchair. This tour includes approximately 90 minutes of walking and standing at times on uneven surfaces and steps to negotiate. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a camera from the ship. Please be advised that the itinerary and duration of the tour might be affected by traffic. The tour sequence may vary.