visit sea of galilee

The Sea of Galilee: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Significance, History, and Natural Beauty

• May 10, 2023

A visit to Israel and the Sea of Galilee is not only a walk through time and religious history, but also a soothing respite to relax on a sandy beach, unwind with a leisurely scenic drive around the lake, or hike or bike the trails and absorb the beautiful scenery encompassing the area.

Visiting the many locations is an opportunity to experience the Sea of Galilee’s history, along with its culture, ancient ruins, and the beauty of the Holy Land on a personal level that creates memories to last a lifetime.

What is the Sea of Galilee History?

The Sea of Galilee’s strategic location along with its abundance of fish makes it a desired location for ancient civilizations, including the Romans, Hasmoneans, and Greeks. The lake resides on the Via Maris (aka Way of the Sea), which is an ancient trade route that linked northern empires, such as Anatolia, Syria, and Mesopotamia, with Egypt. The route dates to the Bronze Age. The dirt road served as a path along the coast to connect with other people living in the area and as a trade route for goods. 

The sea, which is actually a lake fed by the Jordan River, had, at one time, the distinction of being the largest lake supplying drinking water to the country. It remains one of the earliest locations in Israel with pioneering settlements residing alongside archaeological ruins. 

The closest city to the Sea of Galilee is Tiberias, located along the west edge of the lake. It is considered a holy city. It is believed the Talmud holy scriptures were written in Tiberias.

The Sea of Galilee remains an important resource for commercial fishing. The sea contains more than 20 species living in the lake’s waters. Ten of the species are important to commercial fishermen.

Today, the Sea of Galilee remains a pilgrimage site for Christians who travel from faraway places around the world. 

Why is the Sea of Galilee significant in religious history?

Through the centuries, the Sea of Galilee has been known to be the site of many Christian religious events . Jesus of Nazareth grew up near the Sea of Galilee and ministered to the people of the area.

A visit to the Sea of Galilee sites puts tourists, as well as those on a personal pilgrimage, in the area where it is believed the Baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist is said to have taken place in the Jordan River, located at the southern tip of the Sea of Galilee. More than half a million people, including tourists, locals, and those on pilgrimage, visit the site each year. The site is known as Bethany Beyond the Jordan and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Sea of Galilee in the bible notes the hill known as the Mount of Beatitudes in Northern Israel is where it is believed Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount where the Lord’s Prayer was taught for the first time. The deep blue water of the sea is also where it is said Jesus walked on the water and calmed a raging storm that saved the 12 disciples with him onboard the boat. 

Feeding of the 5000 , also referred to as the “miracle of the five loaves and two fish” is reported by the Gospel of John that the bread and fish were supplied by a local boy, and with these items, Jesus was able to feed the multitude. The location where the feeding of the 5,000 took place was somewhere along the Sea of Galilee’s northwestern shore in Tabgha or Hippos. The feeding of the 5,000, according to ancient fifth-century mosaics, both locations are mentioned. The event took place around 480 A.D. 

Three large cities near the Sea of Galilee’s northern shore were cursed by Jesus because each city refused to repent. The cities were Bethsaida, Korazim, and Capernaum. Located within the  Korazim National Park , visitors will see the preserved remains of an ancient Jewish village and synagogue. In Bethsaida, a variety of excavations have revealed structures dating to the 10th century, including ruins of a palace, houses, a temple, paved roads, and a Roman city wall. Capernaum is considered one of the most sacred f Christian pilgrimage sites in Israel with its many historical landmarks and archaeological excavations that include two ancient synagogues.

What Makes the Sea of Galilee a Natural Beauty?

Also known as Lake Kinneret, Lake Tiberias, Lake of Gennesaret, Sea of Tiberias, and Lake Galilee, not only is the area a popular religious destination for travelers from around the world but it is also known for its extraordinary natural beauty. 

A perfect picture postcard showing an expanse of brilliant deep blue water bordered by towering mountains and an inviting shoreline of hills with lush greenery and tall palm trees is a good way to describe the atmosphere and environment awaiting travelers to the Sea of Galilee.

The sea, itself, makes a visual statement with its impressive dimensions. It has a length of 12 miles, a width of close to eight miles, and a depth of 200 feet. 

The sea rests serenely in northern Israel, enhanced by the towering peaks of Mount Arbel to the west, the Lower Galilee hills to the southwest and the multiple cliffs to the east of the Golan Heights as they stretch towards the shoreline.

Depending on the season, the Sea of Galilee is a contrast of colors, with spring being the most colorful time of year when the hills and slopes are like a vibrant green carpet covering the landscape. Winters are mild and summer is hot, which makes the area ideal for agriculture with farms producing assorted items, such as barley, grapes, olives, figs, bananas, alfalfa, and wheat.

Scattered throughout the hillside are quaint homes, ancient ruins, beautifully detailed and historic churches, as well as modern structures.

In Tiberias, ancient hot springs over 3,000 years old add to the tranquility and natural beauty of the Sea of Galilee. Visitors can refresh and replenish in the soothing natural thermal waters of the springs.

From the hillsides to the shoreline, wherever you look, the views are breathtaking, from the scenic mountains to the sun setting on the horizon casting warm hues across the Sea of Galilee.

Where to stay at the Sea of Galilee?

Tiberias is the closest city to the Sea of Galilee, a little less than 4 miles away. The choice of accommodation is plentiful, with over 100 hotels to choose from, ranging in prices from quality inexpensive hotels and upgraded mid-range boutique accommodations to high-end luxury resort-style hotels. Guests staying at area hotels can expect amenities, such as outdoor swimming pools, spas, onsite dining, room service, bars, fitness center, hot tub, free breakfast, full-service laundry, smoke-free properties, non-smoking rooms, free parking, kid-friendly accommodations, and airport shuttle service.

For travelers who prefer a more private and less crowded setting, Airbnb vacation rentals are also available in Tiberias. A variety of homes and prices are available, such as an ancient, restored stone house, a ground-floor apartment with unobstructed views of the Sea of Galilee, a luxurious apartment with a private terrace, or a lavish beachfront house. These accommodations feature the comforts of home. Some have additional features, such as a heated swimming pool, private garden, outdoor gazebo, barbecue area, fully accessorized kitchens, cable TV, and Wi-Fi.

There are also several bed and breakfasts available in Tiberias for those who want a comfortable setting with no crowds, but also provide an array of features and amenities. A few of the features guests can expect include swimming pools, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, full-screen TV, kitchenettes, and airport shuttle service.

What can you do at the Sea of Galilee?

There is a variety of Sea of Galilee activities to suit all ages and individual interests, from historical landmarks to national parks.

The Sea of Galilee location is in northern Israel and is the largest freshwater lake in Israel, measuring 13 miles from north to south. Explore the lake and surrounding area by car or take one of the many tours to experience the many wonders of this holy destination.

Consider including these things to do and see on your travel itinerary:

• Hamat Tiberias National Park (Tiberias).
• Kursi National Park (archaeological site on the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee).
• Capernaum (ancient pilgrimage site on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee).
• Yardenit (southern region of the Sea of Galilee).
• Mount of Beatitudes.
• Tomb of Maimonides (in Tiberias).
• Kinneret Trail (walk or bike around the trail, which encircles the Sea of Galilee).
• Hike the Jesus Trail from Nazareth to Capernaum.
• Go canoeing on the lake.
• Take a lake tour.
• Kfar Blum rafting (Jordan River)
• Visit Switzerland Park for scenic views.
• Ros Hanikra Grottoes.
• Relax at one of the beaches surrounding the Sea of Galilee. (no facilities).
• Mount Arbel (near Tiberias offers hiking trails, ancient ruins, water views, and caves).
• Scots Church.
• Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fish (Tabgna).
• Bible Lands Museum (archaeological museum in Jerusalem)
• Yigal Alon Center (Ginosar, on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee housing the ancient boat).

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

Travelers who want to experience the Sea of Galilee and all there is to do and see when the weather is at its best is from March through October, when temperatures average 91 degrees Fahrenheit (32.77 Celsius).

For sun lovers, August is the hottest month when temperatures average around 97 degrees Fahrenheit (36.1 Celsius).

Cooler temperatures prevail from December to March, with daily highs averaging around 71 degrees Fahrenheit (21.66 Celsius). If cold weather is your personal preference, set your itinerary for January, when the high temperature averages 64 degrees Fahrenheit (17.77 Celsius) to an average low of 47 degrees Fahrenheit (8.33 Celsius).

How do I get there?

The main airport that serves cities, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Haifa, is Ben Gurion International Airport. From the airport, a shuttle bus service to Jerusalem is available 24 hours a day. From the central station, the bus departs from Jerusalem to Tiberias, which is about 93 miles (150km) away and located along the edge of the Sea of Galilee. The trip can take anywhere from 2-3 hours, depending on the route the bus takes. 

A rental car is also an option. Use the car rental kiosk at the airport, which has most major car rental companies, or, once arriving in Jerusalem, visit one of the car rental locations. Note that some car rental companies have specific rules for renting a car that include Shabbat.

There is also the option of traveling by train from Tel Aviv to Tiberias, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. Travelers can also take a bus, which is inexpensive and takes about 2  hours, or, if driving is preferred, the drive time between Tel Aviv and Tiberias is about two hours. 

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Understanding the Significance of the Western Wall Prayer Request

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Must-see attractions in Sea of Galilee

Mount of the Beatitudes

Sea of Galilee

Since at least the 4th century, this landscaped hillside is believed to be where Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7), whose opening…

Ancient Galilee Boat

In 1986, when the level of the Sea of Galilee was particularly low, a local fisherman made an extraordinary discovery: the remains of a wooden boat later…

The New Testament says that the prosperous lakeside village of Capernaum (estimated population 1500), on the imperial highway from Tiberias to Damascus,…

Arbel National Park

Towering over the Sea of Galilee and offering breathtaking views of the Golan Heights and Mt Hermon, Arbel Cliff is 181m above sea level, which makes it…

Korazim National Park

On a hillside overlooking the Sea of Galilee, Korazim is a good place to get an idea of the layout of a prosperous, midsized Galilean town in the time of…

When the Legionnaires of Christ, a Catholic congregation based in Mexico, began building a spiritual retreat in 2009, they were astonished to discover a…

Church of the Primacy of St Peter

A shady, fragrant garden leads down to the lakeshore and to this Franciscan chapel (built 1933), lit by the vivid colours of abstract stained glass. The…

Monastery of the Twelve Apostles

Peacocks strut around the serene, deeply shaded lakefront garden of this Greek Orthodox site, 200m as the crow flies (1.6km on foot or by car) northeast…

Kinneret Cemetery

Shaded and serene, this luxuriantly leafy lakeside cemetery, established in 1911, is the final resting place of socialist Zionist pioneers such as Berl…

Bet Gabriel

Opened in 1993, this lakeside cultural centre – one of Israel’s most beautiful buildings – is known for its art exhibitions, first-run cinema (two screens…

Yardenit Baptismal Site

This hugely popular, eucalyptus-shaded baptism site, run by Kibbutz Kinneret, is on the Jordan River 100m south of where it flows out of the Sea of…

Kursi National Park

Mentioned in the Talmud as a place of idol worship, this Gentile fishing village – discovered by chance in the early 1970s – is where Jesus is believed to…

Majrase Nature Reserve

Located in the northeastern corner of the Sea of Galilee, the spring-fed streams and jungle-like wetlands of this reserve are ideal for a refreshing …

Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves & Fishes

This austere German Benedictine church was constructed in 1982 on the foundations of a 5th-century Byzantine church. The rock under the altar is believed…

Domus Galilaeae

Near the summit of the Mount of the Beatitudes, this exquisite modern complex serves as a venue in which Christians – especially Catholic seminarians –…

The ruins here, inside HaYarden Park Nature Reserve (Jordan River Park), are believed to be those of the ancient fishing village of Bethsaida, where Jesus…

More destinations you need to see

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Sea of Galilee Region

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Forever entwined with the story of Jesus Christ, who carried out much of his ministry work in the area, the Sea of Galilee region is a beautiful place to visit, full of things to do and tourist attractions, from ancient archaeological remnants to drop-dead gorgeous scenery.

For Christians, of course, the best places to visit are the collection of churches around Tabgha, built over the sites where Jesus carried out his miracles. For other visitors, the placid lakeside scenery, hot pools, and hiking options in the surrounding hills provide enough reasons to spend some time here.

Find out what there is to do in the region with our list of the top tourist attractions in the Sea of Galilee Region.

See also: Where to Stay in the Sea of Galilee Region

1. Tiberias

2. hamat-tiberias hot springs, 3. bet yerah, 4. arbel national park, 5. kibbutz ginosar, 6. church of the multiplication of loaves and fishes, 7. church of the primacy of st. peter, 8. mount of beatitudes, 9. capernaum, 10. greek orthodox church of the 12 apostles, 11. bethsaida, 12. korazim, 13. yardenit, 14. degania, history of the sea of galilee region, where to stay in the sea of galilee region for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in the sea of galilee region.

Sitting on the edge of the Sea of Galilee, Tiberias is the perfect base to explore this region.

The waterside street, Yigal Alon Promenade , is home to most of the town's tourist attractions and is a great place for a lakeside stroll. Along this road, you'll find the 19th-century Church of St. Peter , built over the remains of a Crusader castle. There's a beautiful cloister inside, and the apse of the church is projected like the bow of a ship - a reference to Peter's fishing boat.

Just around the corner on HaYarden Street is the sculpture park known as the Open-Air Museum .

If you walk south along the promenade, you come to the Greek Orthodox Monastery , erected in 1862. If you head inland from the sea, Tiberias is home to a number of important Jewish tombs .

About 300 meters from the northern end of HaGalil Street is the tomb of the great philosopher and physician Maimonides (Rabbi Moses Ben Maimon, also known as Rambam).

Born in Córdoba in 1135, Maimonides left Spain because of religious persecution and went to Cairo to become Saladin's personal physician. While there, he also became the spiritual leader of the Jews in Egypt. As well as the tomb there is an excellent museum here dedicated to his life and work.

The tomb of Yohanan Ben Zakkai - who, after the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, founded a Jewish school in Yavne and transferred the seat of the Sanhedrin to that town - is also near here.

Tiberias has been famed as a spa center since the Roman period, and its hot springs, two kilometers south from town, are as popular now as they were then.

Soaking in the various hot pools here, fed from the natural springs, are the perfect relaxing antidote to time spent on the road traveling.

After you've had your dip, the Hamat-Tiberias hot springs area is also home to its own major tourist attraction. One of the best preserved ancient synagogue mosaic floors in the country was excavated here.

The synagogue dates from the 4th century, and the mosaic floor showcases the influence of both Hellenistic and Roman cultures on the local artists of this period, even when decorating religious buildings. In particular, note the central section of the mosaic, which depicts the sun god Helios surrounded by the signs of the zodiac.

Address: Hamat-Tiberias National Park

The archaeological site of Bet Yerah ("house of the moon," also known as Khirbet Kerak) is not mentioned in either Biblical or Egyptian records, but excavations here have uncovered evidence of a settlement dating from the Bronze Age right through to the period of Arab rule.

The site, 10 kilometers south of the Hamat-Tiberias hot springs, includes a jumble of remains dating from various eras. The best preserved remnants include a bath complex dating from the 4th or 5th century and a 3rd century Roman fort. There is also a Byzantine church and a three-aisled synagogue dating from the 5th century.

Arbel National Park is a wonderful place to put your hiking shoes on and hit the trail.

The major attraction here is the walk up to the Horns of Hittim - the scene of a decisive battle during the Crusader period. On July 4th, 1187, Saladin inflicted an annihilating defeat on the Crusaders here. The Latin kingdom founded 88 years before now lost its capital, Jerusalem , and much of its territory, and for the remaining 104 years of its existence, it was confined to a narrow coastal strip with its capital at Acre ( Akko ).

It is a half-hour walk to the top of the hill on a footpath running up from the main road. From the summit, where there are Bronze Age remains, are fine views of Eastern Galilee and the Sea of Galilee.

Location: 10 kilometers west of Tiberias

The principal attraction of this little kibbutz is the ancient fishing boat, now known as the Sea of Galilee Boat , displayed here in the Beit Yigal Allon Museum.

Discovered in 1986, buried in mud near the edge of the lake, the boat has been dated to between 70 BC and AD 90, meaning that it could have been in use during the time of Jesus.

The boat is 8.27 meters long and 2.3 meters wide and is made out of cedar wood.

Although there is absolutely no proof that the boat could have been used by Jesus or one of his disciples, many people have nicknamed it the Jesus Boat. Historically, the boat is extremely important for providing archaeologists with an example of 1st-century-AD boat design.

Location: 9.5 kilometers north of Tiberias

The Church of the Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes is built over the site where tradition states Christ stood during the miracle when he fed the 5,000 people.

Built in 1982, designed by the Cologne architects Anton Goergen and Fritz Baumann, it stands over the site of an earlier Byzantine-era church and has preserved original elements of the older church within the interior.

The Byzantine period mosaics on the flooring are the church's most distinctive feature, depicting a variety of birds and floral designs. The most interesting mosaics are in the transepts.

The artist was evidently familiar with the Nile Delta and has depicted the flora and fauna of that region with flamingos, snakes, herons, ducks, lotus flowers, and reeds. The south transept also shows a Nilometer (a device used for measuring the level of the river).

The altar in the sanctuary is built over the stone on which Christ is said to have stood when the miracle was performed.

In front is the church's most famous mosaic, depicting a basket containing loaves and flanked by two fish.

Just 200 meters farther along the road to Capernaum from the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes, a footpath runs down to the shores of the Sea of Galilee and the Church of the Primacy of St. Peter.

A chapel built here in the 4th century was destroyed in 1263, and the black basalt present-day church was built by the Franciscans in 1933.

The church commemorates the appearance of the risen Christ to his disciples on the shores of the lake, when he gave Peter primacy over the church.

The rock at the east end of the church is supposed to be the table at which Christ dined with his disciples.

On the south side of the church are rock-cut steps leading down to the lake that were described by the pilgrim Aetheria in about AD 400 as "the steps on which the Lord stood."

The Mount of Beatitudes is a major point of interest for all Christian visitors. Tradition states that it was here that Jesus delivered his famous Sermon on the Mount .

The Roman Catholic Church here (built in the 1930s) holds mass hourly between 8am and 3pm for the pilgrims who travel here.

The immaculately kept gardens are a wonderfully tranquil spot to take in the views over the Sea of Galilee, while inside the church itself is a lovely stained glass window depicting the Beatitudes.

This archaeological site is believed to be the fishing village of Capernaum mentioned in the New Testament where Jesus lived, preached, and gathered the first of his disciples.

The beautiful remains of a fourth-century synagogue are the most prominent ruins here, while the modern church on the site is built over the remnants of a Byzantine church and the ruins of the House of St. Peter .

Archaeological work here has established that the site dates back to the 2nd century BC and was finally abandoned during the 11th century.

Location: 3 kilometers from Tabgha

Well worth a visit, this beautiful and rather striking red-domed church is a major landmark along the Sea of Galilee.

It was built on the shore in 1925 by the Greek Orthodox Church and is well worth a visit for its interior of beautiful Byzantine-style frescoes painted in the late 1990s.

In particular, don't miss the vivid fresco depicting the Last Judgement that covers the church's back wall. The garden here is a shady spot to escape the heat of the midday sun.

Location: Capernaum, 3 kilometers from Tabgha

These basalt ruins are believed to be the remnants of the New Testament town of Bethsaida, where Jesus performed the miracle of walking on water, and they are also near the site where he fed the 5000 and cured a man of blindness.

As the ruins are mostly only foundations and low stone walls, it can be difficult to imagine what this once quite substantial town looked like. Information boards placed at strategic points around the excavations help visitors interpret the site.

Location: 23 kilometers northwest of Tiberias

These atmospheric basalt ruins are the remains of another town from the time of Jesus.

The ruins sit on a hilltop on the Sea of Galilee's northern side. Archaeological work here dates the site back to the 1st century AD, although the ruins present today all date from the later Byzantine era.

The main highlight of a visit here is the 4th-century synagogue (where a horde of coins was found during excavation), which is home to beautiful carvings with Hellenistic influences.

Location: 29 kilometers north of Tiberias

Near the headwaters of the Jordan River, Yardenit is a popular baptism spot for Christian pilgrims looking to dunk themselves in the famous waters of the Jordan.

The site is maintained and managed well, with 12 separate baptism pools built along the lush river bank to aid visitors who want to immerse themselves, as well as a wooden riverbank promenade for those who just want to experience the quiet tranquillity of the river.

There's also a restaurant on-site.

Location: 11 kilometers south of Tiberias

Official site: www.yardenit.com

The kibbutz of Degania lies at the point where the Jordan River emerges from the Sea of Galilee.

This was the very first kibbutz, founded in 1909 by Russian immigrants, with the original kibbutz now known as Degania A, and its more recently-founded neighbor as Degania B.

At the main entrance to Degania A is a Syrian tank, which in 1948, advanced as far as the kibbutz, but was then knocked out by a Molotov cocktail.

Within the territory of the kibbutz is Gordon House (named after Aharon D. Gordon, one of the founders of the kibbutz), a research institute with an archaeological, natural history, and agricultural museum.

Location: 2 kilometers south of Bet Yerah

When the Israelites took possession of the Promised Land, the tribes of Naphtali, Zebulun, and Asher settled in Galilee (Joshua 19), where they were later joined by the tribe of Dan (Judges 18).

In the eighth century BC, the country was occupied by the Assyrians; later came Babylonians, Persians, and Greeks. After the Hasmonean conquest in 163 BC, non-Jews lived in the coastal plain and Jews in the upland regions.

When the Romans occupied Galilee, it was ruled, along with Judaea, by the Hasmonean ruler Hyrcanus II and then by Herod the Great. Thereafter, in the lifetime of Jesus, it belonged to the tetrarchy of Herod Antipas, who made Tiberias his capital, and then, until 44, to the kingdom of Herod Agrippa.

In AD 66, Galilee was a stronghold of the Jewish uprising against the Romans, and after the Bar Kochba rising (AD 135), it replaced Judaea as the center of Jewry; the towns of Bet Shearim, Sepphoris (Zippori), and Tiberias being of particular importance in this connection.

From the seventh century onwards, the Arab population of Galilee increased steadily. The first Jewish settlements of modern times were established at Rosh Pinna (1878) and Metulla, the most northerly village in Israel (1886). In 1948, Galilee became part of the newly founded state of Israel.

We recommend these convenient hotels and guesthouses in Tiberias near the sea:

• The Scots Hotel : This luxury boutique hotel is a former 19th-century Scottish hospital. If offers lake views, large rooms, and a full-service spa.
• Leonardo Plaza Hotel Tiberias : This is a great mid-range seafront resort with a lovely outdoor pool, kids' club, and comfortable beds.
• Ron Beach Hotel : For an affordable waterfront hotel, it's hard to beat this property, where you'll find a private beach, floor-to-ceiling windows, and inviting pool, and a children's playground.
• Villa Roca Tiberias : This budget-friendly bed-and-breakfast is in a central location and housed in a stone building.

More on Israel

Around Lake Kinneret

Circle the sea of galilee, near the water and high above. get amazing views and visit hidden springs, secluded beaches, an ancient synagogue, and christian sites., main attractions:.

• Kinneret Courtyard : Visit The 1908 Jewish Pioneers farm and the lakeside historic cemetery.
•   Mevo Hama promenade : A stroller-friendly promenade with fantastic views on lake Kinneret with an optional short hike to the nearby Shoko Spring.
• Susita (Hippos) : A short hike to the secluded and impressive archeological site of Susita.
• Ein Keshatot Ancient synagogue : Visit an amazing ancient synagogue (400 AD) that was restored in a unique high-tech method.
• Kanaf Spring : A great spot for a picnic stop-over.
• Ashalim Beach : A secluded wild beach. One of the last unspoiled beaches around the lake.
• Domus Galilaeae : A Christian meeting place located on the Mount of Beatitudes offering great views and an interesting visit.
• Church of the Beatitudes : built on the traditional site where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount.
• Optional hikes along the drive:  Menachamiya  /  Arbel  /  Zaki

MAP OF THE ROAD TRIP

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• Hiking Maps for each short hike.
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Another great way to enjoy Lake Kinneret in a unique way is our Kayaking Tour .

• Transportation to/from Nazareth.
• Kayak in the tranquil waters of the Sea of Galilee.
• View the mountain ranges of the Golan Heights and the Galilee.
• Visit the ancient fishing village of Bethsaida .
• See the biblical sites of Jesus’ life and childhood.
• Eat local snacks in a garden in the ancient village of Capernaum .
• Price: From 450 NIS (About 125 USD)

KINNERET COURTYARD – The 1908 pioneers farm

• Getting there:
• Starting point: Tiberias Center (GPS:  32.788314, 35.540286 )
• Drive 8.5 Km south along the lake on road #90 (GPS:  32.721406, 35.569015 ) (8.5Km)
• From the junction, you have within 5 minutes walk both the Courtyard and the Historic cemetery.
• Use the “Kinneret Courtyard” Map from the eBook for easy orientation.

MEVO HAMA PROMENADE AND TWO SPRINGS

• Getting There:
• Drive to Maagan Junction  (GPS:  32.701942, 35.602706 ) (4.5 Km)
• If you are feeling energetic, notice that you are just a few minutes’ drive from Menachamiya where you can go on this interesting 8 Km hike .
• Continue straight on road #98 that begins here. This is a very scenic road that follows the eastern side of the Israeli Golan Heights all the way to Mount Hermon.
• Drive on this winding road until Kibbutz Mevo Hama . (GPS:  32.738294, 35.656125 ) (16 Km)
• After a few minutes, you will see on your right the deep gorge of the Yarmuch River that forms the border between Israel and Jordan.
• You are in the southern Golan Height now!
• Once in the Kibbutz, Use the “Mevo Hama” Map and GPS link from the  eBook for the short walks in the area.

The 2 Km long, paved & stroller friendly promenade runs along the edge of a cliff 400 m above the lake. It is a flat and easy walk offering constant great views. You can walk all or part of the promenade. In addition, you can add the 1 Km short hike to the magnificent Shoko Spring .  Use the “Mevo Hama” Map and GPS files from the eBook  to easily find your way.

ANCIENT SUSITA (HIPPOS)

A short hike to an interesting archeological site in a stunning setting!!

• Drive to the Junction of road #98 with a minor road. (GPS:  32.76950,35.694333 ) (6 Km)
• Turn left and continue downhill along a very narrow and winding road until the small parking near the trailhead. (GPS: 32.773986,35.663715 ) (5 Km).
• Attention! There is a “No Entry” sign at the entrance of the road. This is due to the poor road condition. You can choose to ignore it and drive carefully. There are pits and in some sections, the tarmac is gone, But it is still passable also for passenger cars.
• The walk from the parking is 750 m uphill along the black marked path.
• Use the “Susita” Map and GPS Link from the  eBook  to easily find your way. The site is a perfect blend of archeology and a stunning setting!! The city was built in the 2nd century BCE by the Seleucid Empire . The city was developed further during the Roman era. Most of the archeological findings seen today are from that period. The city was destroyed in an earthquake on 749 AD was left abandoned since. (Further reading in Wikipedia )The site is located on a small plateau surrounded by steep slopes from 3 directions. It is a dramatic setting and the views down to the sea of Galilee are stunning.

EIN KESHATOT ANCIENT SYNAGOGUE

• Drive back up to the main road #98.
• Drive to Ein KEshatotr. (GPS: 32.852855,35.761458 ) (26 Km).
• Enjoy along the way the wide-open views typical to the plateau of the Golan Heights.

Update October 2018: The site is now regulated by the Golan Tourism Organization and there is an admission fee of 23 NIS to enter it.

KANAF SPRING

• Drive to a junction just before the entrance to Kanaf. (GPS:  32.870114, 35.703474 ) (17 Km).
• From here follow the Black marked dirt road.
• Use the “Kanaf” Map and GPS Link from the  eBook to easily find your way.
• The parking is near the spring and there is no walking involved.

A beautiful spring with plenty of shade, a nice pool, and fine views. The best spot for a picnic along this road trip . (The place is usually crowded on weekends and holidays, but very peaceful on weekdays)

ASHALIM BEACH

• Drive down to the junction with the main road #92. (GPS:  32.882478, 35.660618 ) (Total 11 Km).
• The entrance to the fun water hike of the Zaki Stream  is just in front of you!
• Drive to  (GPS:  32.837760, 35.650950 ) (Total 5 Km).
• Turn right on an unmarked dirt road and drive further about one Km. There are several turns and other road crossings. It is recommended to use the “Ashalim” Map and GPS Link from the  eBook to avoid confusion.
• From the gate that blocks the end of the dirt road, walk a bit further to the lakeshore.
• On your way, you will be crossing the purple marked Kinneret round trail. (See on the “Ashalim” map ).
• If you want to stretch your legs a bit more, you can go either north or south along the path as far as you like.

The area is part of the Kursi Beach natural reserve and is o ne of the only beaches on the sea of Galilee that are not developed as a touristic site and still offers easy access to the water. There is absolutely no shade on the beach and during the summer when temperatures reach 40ºC it is not recommended. During this period the spot is also very windy and therefore very popular with Kitesurfers and windsurfers. However, between November-April it is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the Galil mountains across the lake.

DOMUS GALILAEAE

• Drive back to the main road.
• Turn left and follow road #92.
• Continue until the entrance to Domus Galilaeae (GPS: 32.903436, 35.552535 ) (21 Km).

The building on the top of the Mount of Beatitudes and was opened in 2000 and was inaugurated by Pope John Paul II in his Millennium visit to the Holy Land. It is run by the Neocatechumenal Way and is used as a meeting place for seminars and conventions. There are several attractions here:

• The excellent views on lake Kinneret and the Golan Heights on the opposite side.
• The exterior of the building and it’s gardens.
• The unique architecture of the interior.

For opening hours and additional information visit the  Domus Galilaeae official site.

CHURCH OF THE BEATITUDES

• Drive to the entrance of the church compound (GPS: 32.883416, 35.555859 ) (5 Km).

The church is located on the lower slopes of the Mount of Beatitudes on the traditional site of Jesus’ delivery of the  Sermon on the Mount  .It is a site of pilgrimage since the 4th century AD. The modern church that was built between 1936 and 1938 stands near the site of the fourth-century Byzantine ruins. The impressive building is surrounded by beautiful gardens with a serene atmosphere and another fine view of the sea of Galilee.

BACK TO TIBERIAS

From here drive back to Tiberias along the lakeshore. (GPS:  32.788314, 35.540286 ) (16 Km). At around midway, pay attention to the commanding Arbel Cliffs on your right. Don’t miss this exciting hike to the top of the mountain.

Written by Erez Speiser

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The Sea of Galilee is one of the most central areas to the ministry of Jesus during His life on Earth. Nearly 70% of Jesus’ ministry took place near, beside, or even on top of (literally) this body of water.

What is the Sea of Galilee?

Here is what you need to know: the Sea of Galilee is the largest freshwater lake in all of Israel. Yes, it is in fact a lake, even though the Gospels call it a sea. But we will use “sea” and “lake” interchangeably, because let’s be honest, it is known as both.

If you look at a picture of the Sea of Galilee on a map, its shape resembles a harp. Because of this, it earned its Hebrew name “Kinneret”, which means – you guessed it – a harp.

It is also sometimes called Lake Tiberias, and the Bible calls it Lake Gennesaret (or Genezareth) on a few occasions. There are a couple other names too, but we don’t want to confuse you. So, whichever name you choose, it is probably the right one according to some. 

Sea of Galilee Facts

The lake is approximately 8 miles across and, in total, is about 64 square miles in size. It sits around 700 feet below sea level.

To the east of it lie the borders of modern-day Syria and Jordan.

To its west is the region of the Galilee, which includes several cities you might recognize. They are Cana, Megiddo, Magdala, Gennesaret and Capernaum, to name a few. And Nazareth is not too far either! So, in His childhood years, Yeshua lived only about 20 miles west of the Sea of Galilee.

The Life-Giving Lake of Israel

Lake Kinneret is part of the Jordan River. Which means, the Jordan flows into the northern part of the Sea of Galilee, but it also flows out of the southern tip of the sea.

A popular analogy says, the Sea of Galilee is like a righteous man; because living water flows into it and living water flows out of it.

In contrast, the Dead Sea is likened to an unrighteous man, because though freshwater flows into it, nothing flows out of it. It holds what it receives, and because of evaporation it makes the water undrinkable.

But the Sea of Galilee is also life-giving in a very literal sense. The lake has been the source of drinking water not just for Israel, but also for Jordan! Today, Israel has also other supplies of water (which they also share). But the fact remains that the lake is very precious to both countries. 

Jesus and the Sea of Galilee

Judging by the amount of time He spent near it, Yeshua (Hebrew name of Jesus) must have really enjoyed the Sea of Galilee and its surroundings. But the hills and mountains around it mean that its waters were (and are!) often troubled by storms. And Jesus famously silenced them.

On the shores of the lake, Jesus called His first disciples and performed miracles. Also here, He often spoke of the Kingdom of God and fed thousands. By the Sea of Galilee, Jesus shared His most recognized message, later named “Sermon on the Mount”.

Do you want to learn more about the specific locations for these events? Then read on! 

Jesus’ Ministry in the Galilee: a List

According to the Gospels, here are some of the significant locations where Jesus ministered to the people near the Sea of Galilee:

Mt. of Beatitudes and Tabgha

This northern point of the sea is where Jesus gave His most well-known teaching. This address is commonly called the Sermon on the Mount ( Matthew 5-7 ). The Mount on the other hand takes its name from the blessings that Jesus listed at the beginning of His speech. 

A site nearby called Tabgha commemorates Jesus feeding the 5,000 (Mark 6). The church in this small parish is famous for its mosaic near the altar. It displays the bread and fish that Jesus multiplied. 

Also on the northern shore of the sea, Capernaum is the town near which Jesus called Peter and Andrew to be His disciples (Matthew 4). Many see this as the “home base” of Jesus’ ministry.

Here Jesus healed the servant of the Roman centurion (Matthew 8). And also where the paralytic was lowered from the roof and healed (Matthew 9).

Today’s Capernaum holds the remains of a synagogue that dates back to the days of Yeshua’s life on Earth. Somewhere among the ruins of this ancient town could have been Peter’s home.

Located near the northeastern area of the sea, the place became known after Yeshua healed a man there who was born blind. Jesus used His spittle and laid hands on him, giving him sight. This is the same man who first replied to Jesus that he saw men as trees walking (Mark 8).

Kursi or Golan Heights

This vast, mountainous region is also northeast of the sea. As we read in the Gospels, this is where Jesus cast the legion of unclean spirits into a herd of swine. The pigs ran down the banks of the sea and drowned (Mark 5).

This city on the northwestern border of the sea was the hometown of Miriam who followed Jesus. Known better as Mary Magdalene (Miriam of Magdala ), she chose to follow Yeshua, after He cast out 7 unclean spirits out of her (Luke 8). 

This unique cliff stands nearly 600 feet tall, overlooking the entire region of the Sea of Galilee. Many believe this wasf the most likely location where Jesus shared the Great Commission ( Matthew 28 ).

From this cliff you could see most of the areas where Yeshua’s ministry actually took place.

The River Jordan and Yardenit

You can see the Jordan River and even go swimming in it both north of the lake and south of it. On the southern side of it, you can find a site today that is dedicated to Yeshua being baptized by His cousin, John the Baptist (John 1).

The actual event likely took place much further south down the river. Probably as far south as Jericho. Nevertheless, Yardenit remains a special site for Christians, where they can even get an opportunity to get baptized themselves.

The Waters of the Sea of Galilee

We’ve been talking about the Sea of Galilee all this time, but we cannot wrap things up without specifically mentioning its waters.

It’s important to note that two miracles of Jesus (at least!) happened actually ON the sea. First, as we already mentioned, He calmed the storm. Jesus was in the boat with his disciples when a rough storm broke out. The disciples woke Him up and He restored peace (Mark 4).

On another occasion, Jesus stayed on the coast while His disciples were out in the sea fishing. He walked towards them on water, as described in Mark 6, and Peter boldly stepped out of the boat towards Jesus.

Visit the Sea of Galilee in Israel!

If you’ve ever wondered, “What is the most central location to Jesus’ ministry?” Or, “What area should I visit in the land of Israel?” , think north!

After you land in Tel Aviv and soak up the atmosphere of Jerusalem, you cannot miss out on the Galilee region of the promised land. The area of the Sea of Galilee is just as beautiful today as it must have been in Jesus’ day. 

And here’s some extra information you will love: If you join us on a Jerusalem Encounter tour, you will not only visit the Galilee — you will also get a chance to meet the local believers. So sign up today!

Visiting Israel: In the Footsteps of Jesus: Free PDF Download

It is quite exciting to think that while touring Israel you are walking on the same land that Jesus did.

Whether it is the reason why you came to Israel or not, it is worth noting which locations were significant to His life and ministry. God chose this piece of land to send His Son to live on earth. Many archeological findings confirm the locations mentioned in the Bible.

Articles Related to the Sea of Galilee

• 10 Places Where Jesus Walked in Israel from Scripture
• Crossing the Jordan River and Its Spiritual Significance
• The Literal Intent of the Prophets
• What Can We Learn from the Dead Sea Scrolls?
• Sharing the Gospel in the Sharon Region of Israel

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The Sea of Galilee - Israel’s Musical Lake

Where is the Sea of Galilee?

The State of Israel is not just a biblical modern day miracle; it also features several geographical wonders that are unique worldwide.

One of these is the Sea of Galilee , which, at 209 meters below sea level, is the lowest freshwater lake on Earth! The other lowest lake in the world is the  Dead Sea , which is a saltwater lake.

Not bad for a country the size of New Jersey.

Located in northeast Israel between the Golan Heights and the Galilee region, the Sea of Galilee rests at the bottom of the Jordan Rift Valley, the longest tectonic rift on earth that is caused by the shifting of the African and Arabian Tectonic Plates.

Consequently, the region has experienced frequent earthquakes, and in the past, volcanic activity as is evident by the geology of Galilee.

Resting by the ancient Via Maris Road that linked Egypt with the northern empires, the Hebrews, Greeks, Hasmoneans, and Romans built flourishing towns and settlements on the lake’s fertile shores.

The first-century historian Josephus Flavius was so impressed by the region that he called its beauty the "… ambition of Nature," describing a thriving fishing industry of hundreds of boats regularly working on the pastoral lake.

Fed partly by underground springs, the Lake’s main source of water is the Jordan River (and a few smaller tributaries) which flow through it down to the Dead Sea in the south.

Called by different names throughout its history according to the various empires, seasons, and communities on its shores, with the changing of times the Lake's name also changed. 

Called the Sea of Kinneret, Sea of Ginosar, Sea of Galilee, Sea of Tiberias, and even "Bahr al-Minya” as it was called in Arabic during the Mameluke period, the name that prevailed and made its way into Modern Hebrew is KINNERET. This is how it first appeared in the Bible (Numbers 34:11, Joshua 13:27) where it is actually spelled כנרות "KINNEROT," which is a plural noun in Hebrew.

Where Does The Name Come from?

This Modern Hebrew name relates to a popular etymology originating from the Hebrew word KINNOR, meaning “harp” or “lyre,” possibly relating to the shape of the lake.

And though scholars still debate the origin of the actual name, most Israelis deeply connect with the musical reference of the name and have fully embraced it by now with affection.  

In the New Testament, Luke called it the “Lake of Gennesaret (Luke 5:1), referring to the fertile plain of Ginosar that lies on the western shore of the Lake and is the site of ancient Magdala and the modern Genosar Kibbutz.

Mathew, Mark, and John, however, called the lake the “Sea of Galilee” or the “Sea of Tiberias,” reflecting the strong connection to the broader region and the ruling Roman Emperor. Following the Byzantine period, the Lake was known in Arabic as "Bahr al-Minya," or the "Sea of Minya,” commemorating the Minya Governorate from Upper Egypt who ruled the region temporarily.

For Evangelical Christians, the region is extremely important since most of the ministry of Jesus took place along the shores of the Sea of Galilee.

During that Second Temple era, towns and fishing villages were spread all around the lake, and the Gospels give us an account of a very dynamic, busy, and fruitful region.

Some of the disciples were recruited from the very shores of the Kinneret; and the majority of Jesus’ recorded miracles, teachings, and parables were given in that region.

These include His walking on the water, calming the storm, the miraculous catch of fish, the feeding of the five thousand, and of course the Sermon on the Mount. No wonder some scholars refer to the KINNERET as the “Fifth Gospel.”

Some More History

Following the defeat of Bar Kokhva's revolt during the second century AD, the Romans banned all Jews from Jerusalem and the center of Jewish life shifted to the Galilee and the City of Tiberias where the Jerusalem Talmud was compiled.

This essentially replaced the biblical Judaism that was based on the sacrificial system that was no longer practicable with the destruction of the Temple and the priesthood.

After the Byzantine Christians lost control of the region to subsequent Islamic empires following the seventh century, the towns and villages in the area were gradually abandoned, setting the stage for the great Crusader’s defeat by Saladin at the Battle of Hattin just above the shimmering lake.

The lake and the region held little importance during the Ottoman period with only a meager Jewish population scattered here and there, but all that changed with the arrival of Jewish pioneers during the early years of the 1900s.

They began to cultivate the neglected region, drain the swamps, and establish cooperative farming villages (kibbutzim) in the vicinity of the lake.

Following the establishment of the State of Israel, the Kinneret Lake was linked to the country's new water infrastructure by the National Water Carrier, a project that has since been replaced by other water sources to preserve the Lake from being over-pumped.

Following repeated years of drought and dry winters, the government of Israel approved a plan in 2018 to replenish the Lake artificially by pumping desalinated Mediterranean water into it in an effort to stop the water level from plunging below the point of irreversible ecological damage, a plan that is presently being studied.

Why You Need to Visit The Sea of Galilee

Tourism naturally abounds around the Sea of Galilee as historic and biblical sites attract both local and international tourists. The majority of the visitors are Christian pilgrims eager to see the actual places where Jesus lived, taught, and performed miracles.

But not only spiritual reasons bring visitors.

Another key attraction is the Lake itself which became a very popular vacation and recreation spot for many Israelis with public beaches and water parks all around the Sea of Galilee. The robust economy, apart from tourism, includes fishing and orchards of bananas, dates, mangoes, grapes, olives, and a whole lot more.

The warm waters of the Sea of Galilee support a rich variety of flora and fauna, with the most famous fish being the “St. Peter’s Fish” that many of our guests enjoy while dining by the Lake.

Traveling in Israel, the Lake of Kinneret is a MUST, and our Sar-El team is standing by to take you there.

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The Top Attractions in the Galilee

From archaeological wonders to rafting adventures, we've got all of your activities in the Galilee covered.

Located in the north of Israel, the Galilee is as popular with tourists as it is with locals who flock to the area to enjoy sea, sand, and sun (well, technically, the sea of the Galilee is a lake…). In between working on your tan , there’s a seemingly never-ending treasure chest of historical and archeological wonders  to ogle – no Instagram filter needed. Plus, the Galilee boasts a handful of incredible restaurants, vineyards , and family-fun recreational activities like rafting down the Jordan River. We’ve rounded up the absolute best sites in the Galilee that you won't want to miss.

The best attractions in the Galilee

1.  Sea of Galilee hot springs and Hamat Tiberias national park

• Attractions

Known in the Talmud for their curative powers, these mineral-rich waters are now paired with modern accoutrements, including indoor/outdoor thermal pools, a lap pool (heated in winter), free beach access, gym, dry and wet sauna, mud wraps, massage and more. 

2.  Kfar Blum - Jordan River

• Parks and gardens

If you’re seeking a more adventurous water activity to pass the time, the Kfar Blum wet river experience and attraction centre in the Galilee has just the thing. From high-speed “kayaking” (rafting) down fast-flowing waters to lazing down the Hatzbani stream, Kfar Blum guarantees fun for the entire family. For an additional adrenaline rush, don’t miss their "Top-Rope" adventure park. The site also offers campground accommodations for a reasonable price.

3.  Yam L’Yam

• Rivers, lakes and ponds

Taking between three to five days, the hike features stunning views in the Western and Upper Galilee regions of Israel. Walked by thousands of Israelis and tourists every year this trail is uniquely Israeli, giving visitors a chance to hike across an entire country in only a few days. The hike features a variety of scenery climbing to 1,200 meters and dropping to -400 meters, which creates a dramatic landscape and unique experience. Be sure to buy the “Israeli Hiking Map #2” from any local camping store for an extremely accurate map of the hike.

4.  slow-ness

This magical place is the epitome of Israel's most beloved bounty all in one stunning place. Nestled within the groves of Kibbutz Moran, slow-ness came to be the blueprint of chill living that so many sought after in the standstill and wake of the pandemic; a place where life's truest treasures and simplistic beauty unfold before you. Couples, families, and friends gather here and new encounters meld into the mix as if they have always been part of your inner circle. People look at each other and just get it. The accouterments are essential and thoughtfully-curated; 30 spacious rooms with some boasting reading nooks or corners for napping (emphasis on essential ), soft organic cotton linens, landscaped green grounds dotted with fire pits, saunas, and intimate pools bidding guests in for a dip.

The slow, communal dining room serves as a focal point for meeting and lounging; a singalong soundtrack hums in the air, a hand-picked marketplace filled with homespun, Galilean delicacies is rife for the shopping, and breakfast, brunch, and dinner are all lovingly served here. Expect farm-fresh, just-fished, perfectly-plated culinary delights by  talented chef Nitay Yahalom.    

5.  Shvil Sovev Kinneret

• Sea of Galilee

The Shvil Sovev Kinneret, a 35 km long trail, is one of the most magical, ambitious trails that the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel offers the public to enjoy the Sea of Galilee at no cost. The trail winds around the Kinneret and involves hiking on 2-5 km sections covered by eucalyptus trees, fish pools, historic sites and local wildlife. If you get tired, you can freshen up with a dip in the sea, so don't forget to bring your swimsuit.

6.  Rosh Hanikra Grottoes

• Rosh Hanikra

For thousands of years, a natural phenomenon has been forming in northern Israel – the grottoes at Rosh Hanikra. The waves of the Sea of Galilee have continuously smashed against the sides of the cliffs, eroding the rock and forming tunnels and caves, which are constantly changing due to the water. The grottoes are lit up, allowing for night-time trips. Although the grottoes stay warm from the energy created by the water, there is a spray reaching heights of 35 meters, so don’t forget to pack an umbrella!

7.  Achzivland

Eli Avivi is the self-declared ruler of Achzivland, an independent, albeit unrecognized, micro-nation just north of Nahariya. The eccentric former seaman first became smitten with this beautiful stretch of beach at the northern edge of Israel in 1952. Convinced this was the spot for him, he soon built himself a home there. In 1970, after a string of mishaps with the government (one of which involved a bulldozer), Avivi, a born renegade, declared his 2.5 acres of land and its populace, "Achzivland." Not surprisingly, the spot is known to draw a crowd of young, hippie-inclined internationals and Israelis, making late night parties, concerts and drum circles a part of Achzivland's cultural heritage.

8.  Korazim National Park

A 25 acre park, Korazim is one of the most well preserved ancient cities dating back to the Second Temple era. Korazim is mentioned in the New Testament as one of the three cities cursed by Jesus (along with Bethsaida and Capernaum). Antiquities are a dime a dozen here, and the stones are stained black having been hewed from the volcanic basalt rock. Check out the basaltic fourth century synagogue and ancient ritual bath, or mikve. 

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Most of northern Israel is generically known as The Galilee (Galil in Hebrew). It stretches virtually from the Mediterranean to the harp-shaped Sea Of Galilee and River Jordan on whose shores vast history has been made. Here is Mount Gilboa where King Saul and his son, Jonathan, died in battle against the Phillistines. Hazor, according to historical biblical texts Deborah killed Sisera. Here, at Mount Meron, is the grave of Rabbi Hillel. Here in Tzippori, Hamat Tveriya and Bet Alpha, gorgeous 1,800-year-old synagogue mosaics have been discovered. Here is Armageddon (Megiddo) where Solomon built giant stables. Here is the lakeshore city of Tiberias, one of the “Four Holy Cities of Judaism” (another is Galilee’s Safed), which reached fame 2,000 years ago as one of the chief locations in which the Talmud was written.

The restoration of the Jewish homeland in the period beginning in the 1880’s was largely centered in the Galilee, and in the ensuing 130 years a much neglected landscape of not much more than olive trees has been transformed into one of the most fertile areas in the world. Here are dozens of kibbutzim and independently owned farms – whose produce feeds not only Israelis but is also flown daily to the grocery stores and flower markets of Europe. Here are some of Israel’s 300+ vineyards producing award winning wines. And here are pretty villages, towns and cities including Nazareth and Carmiel.

In addition to hotels and very comfortable kibbutz guest houses, the Galilee is filled with dozens of country bed-and-breakfast accommodations, known as zimmerim. Many offer luxurious accommodations, including pools, and make a delightful base for relaxing and touring.

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Israel’s war on Gaza live: Clashes rage in southern Gaza’s Rafah

• At least 28 killed, dozens wounded in Israeli bombing of three homes in Gaza City.

• The Israeli military confirmed the deaths of eight of its soldiers in a blast in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, after Hamas’s armed wing announced that it carried out an ambush on Israeli forces in the city’s Saudi neighbourhood.
• The Qassam Brigades says Israeli army air strikes have killed two Israeli captives held by the group in the Gaza Strip.
• UNRWA must be allowed to work unhindered in Gaza, Group of Seven (G7) leaders say as their summit wraps up in Italy.
• At least 37,296 people have been killed and 85,197 wounded in Israel’s war on Gaza since October 7. The revised death toll in Israel from Hamas’s attacks stands at 1,139 with dozens of people still held captive in Gaza.

Israeli army announces death of additional soldier

Israeli media outlet Ynet, citing the army’s spokesperson, reports that a 19-year-old sergeant succumbed to wounds he received in an explosion in southern Gaza’s Rafah on Monday.

In the incident in which he received the wounds, an officer and three other soldiers were killed, the spokesperson added.

Earlier today, the Israeli army announced the deaths of eight soldiers who were killed in an ambush by fighters of the Qassam Brigades, Hamas’s armed wing, also in Rafah.

Qatar and Egypt planning ceasefire talks with Hamas: White House official

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan has said that mediators for Qatar and Egypt plan to engage with Hamas soon to see if there is still a way to push ahead with a ceasefire proposal offered by US President Joe Biden.

Sullivan said he spoke to Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and that they would speak again about Gaza tomorrow while both are in Switzerland for the Ukraine peace summit.

Hamas has welcomed the ceasefire proposal, is looking to secure an end to the war, a demand Israel still rejects.

Sullivan said that US officials have examined Hamas’s response closely.

He said the next step will be for Qatari and Egyptian mediators to talk to Hamas and “go through what can be worked with and what really can’t be worked with.”

“We anticipate a back-and-forth between the mediators and Hamas. We’ll see where we stand at that point. We will keep consulting with the Israelis and then hopefully at some point next week we’ll be able to report to you where we think things stand and what we see as being the next step to try to bring this to closure,” Sullivan said.

Italy’s PM at G7 summit: ‘Italy is a friend of Israel’

Reporting from Fasano, Italy

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni wrapped up the three-day global event by discussing the core points of the group’s final communique.

Concerning Gaza, the document stressed the G7’s support for a ceasefire deal laid out by US President Joe Biden. It also said that Israel “must comply with its obligation under international law” and “refrain from” launching an offensive in Gaza’s southern city of Rafah.

Yet, it stopped short of condemning Israel for its conduct during this war, which is currently being investigated by the International Court of Justice – the world’s highest court – in a genocide case being brought by South Africa against Israel.

In light of the absence of strong language towards Israel’s actions in Gaza, Al Jazeera asked the prime minister what it would take for the G7 to condemn Israel or to consider steps similar to those taken against Russia, such as sanctions or a ban on weapon sales to Israel.

Meloni dodged the question. And while she said that Palestinians have the right to have their own state, she made it clear that Italy is a “friend of Israel”.

“Now, what we have to do is to work for peace and it is exactly what we’re doing and work for peace we have to dialogue and we have to recognise the right of Israel to be safe,” Meloni told Al Jazeera.

Israeli forces beat young man from Jenin refugee camp unconscious, reports Wafa

Israeli forces reportedly assaulted a young man from the Jenin refugee camp, in the occupied West Bank, which led to his hospitalisation, according to Palestinian security and local sources, Palestinian news agency Wafa reported.

Soldiers severely beat Saddam Abu Rmeila, a resident of the camp who was arrested two days ago, according to Wafa.

Following his assault, he was left unconscious at the eastern entrance of the town of Yabad. Abu Rmeila was subsequently transported to Ibn Sina Hospital in Jenin for medical treatment, the agency said.

Israeli forces raze homes in Rafah

Al Jazeera’s correspondent in the Gaza Strip reports that soldiers are currently burning a number of homes in the central district of Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip.

They also report that other homes are being targeted with tank shells.

Fierce clashes have been occurring all day in the city, where earlier eight Israeli soldiers were killed when Hamas fighters ambushed them.

Mass demonstrations in Tel Aviv

We’ve been reporting on large protests in Israel, which have been occurring weekly for months, against Prime Minister Netanyahu and his government and in support of the Israeli captives held in Gaza.

Video posted by Israeli broadcaster Channel 12 shows Israelis flooding Kaplan Street in Tel Aviv, demanding early elections and saying that Netanyahu has not done enough to secure the release of the captives.

דקת דומייה לזכר הנופלים בזמן ההפגנה בקפלן @Noam92Cohen pic.twitter.com/bfx4BKt9dn — החדשות – N12 (@N12News) June 15, 2024

Translation: A minute’s silence in memory of those who fell during the demonstration in Kaplan 

8 soldiers killed on the deadliest day for Israeli forces in months

Hamas fighters killed eight Israeli soldiers traveling in military vehicles in Rafah after firing rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and then ambushing a support force deployed to the scene.

The attacks on Saturday marked one of the deadliest days for Israeli soldiers in Gaza in months as its ground invasion of the southern region continues to ramp up.

Qassam Brigades, Hamas’s armed wing, said in a statement its soldiers “carried out a complex ambush against enemy vehicles” in the Saudi neighbourhood of Tal as-Sultan district, western Rafah city.

The armed group said it fired Yassin-105 RPGs at a D9 military bulldozer, killing and wounding an unidentified number of Israeli soldiers. A “rescue force” vehicle that later arrived was also attacked, “resulting in its destruction and the death of all its occupants”.

Read more here .

Soldiers killed are ‘a heavy price to pay’, say Israeli officials

Al Jazeera is reporting from Amman, Jordan because it has been banned from reporting inside Israel.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that this is a heavy price to pay, but it should not divert away from the fact that Israel still has to achieve all of its goals in this war.

Nearly nine months into this deadly war in Gaza, the Israeli army has not achieved any of these goals. They have not released all of the remaining Israeli captives. They have not ensured that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel. And they have not dismantled Hamas’s military and political capabilities.

We also heard from Israel’s opposition leader, Yair Lapid, who essentially emphasised the same thought: That this is a heavy price to pay, and that this is a war that is going to experience losses.

We’re hearing from a wide variety of people at this hour that the Hostage and Missing Families Forum, that group’s spokesperson, has said that Israel cannot win in Gaza against Hamas. And we also heard from one Israeli captive who was released by the Israeli army in what they called a rescue mission that killed nearly 300 Palestinians, calling on the Israeli government to enter into a deal. The demands from protesters are becoming much more severe.

Netanyahu: Israel paid ‘heartbreaking’ price in its war on Gaza

After the Israeli army announced that eight of its soldiers were killed in southern Gaza’s Rafah today, the Israeli prime minister issued a video statement via X.

Here are a few key points he made:

• We paid a heartbreaking price in our just war.
• We fight to preserve our existence and our future, and we fight to recover those who were kidnapped.
• Our brutal enemy has no intention of stopping, but rather wants to continue trying to annihilate us, so there is no alternative to victory.
• We are at the height of a difficult war on many fronts, including international forums, and we face many challenges ahead.
• Despite the destabilizing price, we will adhere to the war goals of eliminating Hamas and returning the kidnapped, and so that Gaza will not pose a threat again.

Israel’s war on Gaza, now eight months old, has, as of today, killed at least 37,296 people and wounded 85,197.

Israel attacks several areas surrounding Gaza City

Israeli forces have launched artillery attacks on several areas in the southwest of Gaza City, according to Palestinian news agency Wafa.

Israeli naval vessels bombarded the Tal al-Hawa and Sheikh Ajlin neighbourhoods, while Israeli military vehicles also opened heavy gunfire in the areas, Wafa said.

Israeli warplanes also conducted low-altitude flights over Gaza City, stirring fear among Palestinians in the area, the agency reported.

Israeli protesters block road in Tel Aviv

Video posted on X by activists and Israeli media shows demonstrators, calling for early elections to replace the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, flooding and blocking Ayalon street in Tel Aviv.

These demonstrations have been occurring in Israel on a weekly basis for months, as protesters call for Netanayhu’s removal and for the release of Israeli captives held in the Gaza Strip by Hamas and other Palestinian groups.

חסימה כעת באיילון דרום – בחירות עכשיו ! pic.twitter.com/oXfVMUID2Z — לירי בורק שביט (@lirishavit) June 15, 2024

Tunisians rally in front of US embassy in Tunis

Demonstrators from the Tunisian Network to Counter the Normalization System are staging their weekly rally in support of Palestinians in Gaza, in front of the US embassy in Tunisia’s capital, Tunis.

The participants waved Palestinian, Tunisian and Yemeni flags, as well as banners denouncing Israel’s actions in Gaza, as seen in footage on social media verified by Al Jazeera’s fact-checking agency Sanad.

‘Eight of our best sons were killed in Rafah’, says Israeli minister

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz has also expressed his condolences to the families of the eight soldiers who were killed in Rafah, saying they “knew they might have to sacrifice their lives, but they did it so we could live in this country.”

“Saturday is hard. 8 of our best sons were killed in Rafah,” Katz wrote on X.

Israeli opposition leader sends condolences to families of killed soldiers

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid says the “heart is broken again and again” following the announcement that eight Israeli soldiers were killed in Rafah.

“Condolences and a big hug to the families of the fighters who were killed today in Rafah. Our hearts are with you in your difficult time. May the memory of the warriors be blessed,” Lapid wrote on X.

WATCH: Israeli forces destroy all water wells in North Gaza

Israeli forces have destroyed all the water wells in northern Gaza.

The lack of water is making the near-famine conditions across the Strip worse, and most children and adults there don’t have access to clean drinking water as Al Jazeera’s Osama Bin Javaid reports.

Watch our video to learn more: 

Al-Quds Brigades says one fighter killed in southern Lebanon

The armed wing of Islamic Jihad, the Al-Quds Brigades, says one of its fighters, Muhammad Zuhair Khalil Jalbout “Abu Khalil”, 45, was killed in an Israeli attack on southern Lebanon.

The group said Abu Khalil “is one of the heroes of the Martyr Ali Al-Aswad Brigade – Syria Square”.

Photos: Bittersweet preparations in Gaza for Eid al-Adha

PRCS says Palestinian teenager killed in the occupied West Bank

The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) says a Palestinian teenager was killed by Israeli gunfire during a raid in the town of Beit Furik in the Nablus governorate.

The Palestinian Health Ministry identified the teenager as Abdul Rahman Sultan Khatatba, a resident of Beit Furik.

Wafa news agency also reported, citing local sources, that Israeli forces stormed the town and fired live bullets at local residents, resulting in three injuries.

Palestinian groups say Israeli armoured personnel carriers targeted, 8 soldiers killed

The Israeli government has not yet responded to the news of eight Israeli soldiers killed in a blast in Rafah, likely because it is shabbat there, the day of rest each Saturday, according to Al Jazeera’s Hamdah Salhut.

“We are hearing reports from Palestinian fighter groups who say that they targeted an APC, an armoured personnel carrier, of the Israeli military with several weapons, causing it to go up into flames and ultimately explode, which is how those eight soldiers were killed,” Salhut said from Amman. She is reporting from Jordan because Israel has banned Al Jazeera from working inside Israel.

Israel’s operation in Rafah is a ground invasion where the military has stated it is looking to get rid of remaining Hamas battalions there – but the operation has been condemned by much of the international community, she added.

“While the Israeli army says it’s not on a full scale just yet, they have taken over key positions in southern Gaza, like the border crossing where no Palestinian is now allowed to leave the Strip,” said Salhut.

WATCH: Netanyahu’s hostage dilemma

Following the dramatic Israeli operation to rescue four captives in Gaza last week, which resulted in a massacre of more than 270 Palestinians, the Israeli public is more vocal about a ceasefire deal remaining the best option to secure their safe return.

While Netanyahu has paid lip service to the public’s demand to bring the captives home, Israelis are coming to the realisation that the issue is a headache for him – it gets in the way of what seems to be his effort to prolong this war for his political career.

Al Jazeera’s The Listening Post speaks to experts to discuss the political significance of the captives.

Watch the discussion below:

US defence secretary invites Israeli counterpart to the Pentagon

Pentagon Press Secretary Patrick Ryder says US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin has invited his Israeli counterpart to Washington following a call earlier this week.

Austin invited Yoav Gallant to the United States on an unspecified date and time to discuss “ongoing security developments in the Middle East.

“Minister Gallant has accepted the invitation and will travel to the US soon (date/time TBD)”.

During his call June 11 with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, @SecDef invited him to visit the Pentagon to further discuss ongoing security developments in the Middle East. Minister Gallant has accepted the invitation and will travel to the U.S. soon (date/time TBD). — Maj. Gen. Patrick Ryder (@PentagonPresSec) June 15, 2024

Less than third of UNRWA health facilities operational, says UN agency

The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) says “less than 1/3 of our health centres are operational” in Gaza amid intense Israeli bombardments.

“Hospitals in ruin, restrictions on humanitarian access and scarce medical supplies and fuel across Gaza are pushing the health situation beyond crisis level,” the agency wrote on X.

“UNRWA health staff continues to support families but less than 1/3 of our health centres are operational. #CeasefireNow.”

Hospitals in ruin, restrictions on humanitarian access and scarce medical supplies and fuel across #Gaza are pushing the health situation beyond crisis level. @UNRWA health staff continues to support families but less than 1/3 of our health centres are operational. #CeasefireNow pic.twitter.com/62vzL1dxEF — UNRWA (@UNRWA) June 15, 2024

Israel says 8 soldiers killed in Rafah

The Israeli military confirms that eight soldiers have been killed in a blast in Rafah.

Hind Khoudary, reporting from Deir el-Balah in central Gaza, says the confirmation comes after earlier reports from Palestinian fighters of an “ambush” in the area, which has been under heavy bombardments since this morning.

UKMTO says crew of ship evacuated after Houthi attack

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) says the crew of a Palau-flagged cargo ship have been evacuated after the ship caught fire and sunk, referring to an incident that happened close to Yemen’s Aden earlier this week.

Yemen’s Houthis struck the Verbena in the Gulf of Aden on Thursday, sparking a fire and severely injuring one of its crew, US Central Command said.

The Houthis have launched dozens of attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea since November, in what they said was in solidarity with Palestinians.

Photos: UCLA students show support for Palestinians