Irina S.United States
Shmuel is amazing , professional and super knowledgeable guide ! We spent 2 days in Jerusalem and our family really enjoyed both tours
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Private tour in Jerusalem Shmuel B
King David's city - Jerusalem from 3000 years ago
5.0
(5) reviews
-
5 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
5 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size
1
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
Shmuel B.
4.9
Guide rating
127
Reviews
Tours delivered
3 hrs
Avg. response time
I'm knowledgeable, experienced and passionate about Israel and would be delighted to show you the country. I was born in Israel but grew up in Ottawa, Canada, so I am a native English speaker. I have lived in Jerusalem with my family for more than 25 years and have been a licensed guide for more than 15 years. Click on "Read Reviews" below to hear what other clients have said about touring with me. Covid-19: I have had 2 vaccine shots plus a 3rd & 4th booster as recommended by the Israel Ministry of Health. Israel is a deeply fascinating and varied country, as your guide I'll make sure you get the most out of your trip. I have created a set of special tours for ToursByLocals combining Archaeology, Art and Architecture; Religion, History and Culture. Here is a list of tours that I specialize in (if you can't find them on the TbL site please message me for more information). Jerusalem - 4 quarters & 3 religions Mount of Olives Jerusalem's Haram el-Sharif/Temple Mount, Religion & Politics City of David/ancient Jerusalem & Hezekiah's tunnel Jerusalem's Israel museum Herodium Masada En Gedi & Dead Sea Beit She'an - Roman Decapolis city Sussita/Hippos Around Sea of Galilee where Jesus lived & taught Caesarea, King Herod's port city Akko/Acre Mount Gerizim Crusader sites like Appolonia, Belvoir, Castelet, . . . Jericho Susiya Makhtesh (craters in Negev) Nabatean Spice Route I also take people "off the beaten track" into unique nature sites in Israel, walking and hiking , like Nahal Og, Wadi Qelt, Nahal Peratzim. I am also a photographer so if you are interested in seeing the country through a camera lens I can take you to unique and special places where you will be able to get great photos. I'm flexible and orient each tour to your interests. When you hire me as your guide it's your tour and it is at your pace. I am happy and able to explain Jewish, Christian and Muslim customs and traditions whatever your religious beliefs. Licensed tour guide, Israel Ministry of Tourism Licensed chauffeur
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Shmuel B.
History and archaeology from David to Hezekiah
Overview of your Jerusalem tour
Are you ready to explore the Jebusite city and learn how King David conquered it 3000 years ago. On this tour learn about the geographical and historical reasons why David chose Jerusalem as the capital of his kingdom. Explore the ancient water system that made it possible for people to settle the mountain ridge and build a walled city. Understand the importance of King David's decision to build the Jewish Temple that became the focal point of Judaism and later Christianity. Are you ready to join me? The tour includes walking through water in Hezekiah's tunnel, an ancient water channel - kids love it! (alternatively, we can take a different, dry path). I will cover the history and archaeology of the most excavated site in Israel, there's always something new to share that has been recently discovered. This is a good tour to do first before exploring the Old City and "newer" Jerusalem.
Recent Reviews
Kevin S.United Kingdom
Schmuel was an excellent guide who brought the archaeological city to life. The City of David is the real Jerusalem from the pages of The Bible and I learned a great deal on this tour. Schmuel also made sure that we got an extra ticket, so we could head back to the Temple Mount via an ancient tunnel system which took us to The Southern Archaeological Park. A Fascinating few hours.
Rodney M.United States
Schmuel is fantastic. He has deep knowledge and enthusiasm from ancient archeology to contemporary politics. And he is pleasant. I spent about 12 hours alone with him on two tours and was delighted by the conversation.
John B.United States
Shmuel gave our small group a very informative tour of the ancient city of David. He is quite knowledgeable and shared with us descriptions of life in the old city and it's evolution. We really enjoyed the historical information and the tour through the water tunnels beneath the city. We had a great time with Shmuel.
Rebecca M.United States
Of all the tours and guides we had in Israel, this was by far the most engaging and informative. His knowledge of Jerusalem, and his approach to explaining the archaeological significance of the sites, was just what I had hoped to find on our trip. I highly recommend Shmuel to anyone who wants a better, more intimate view of Jerusalem.
Your Jerusalem tour itinerary
King David's palace? Warren's Shaft Canaanite water system Hezekiah's tunnel (wet) or alternatively Canaanite tunnel (dry) Siloam Pool Staircase to Old City or shuttle bus Add-on: Southern Wall Archaeological park
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Walking
Walking in an archaeological park, including a 7th century water tunnel carved out of bedrock. It is possible to take a taxi to/from the archaeological park if the client prefers.
What's included
Other: Deciphering various Paleo Hebrew inscriptions and bullae.
Private Guide
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses.
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location
Jerusalem, Jerusalem District, Israel
ByGuide: I can meet you at your hotel, at Jaffa gate or at the entrance to the City of David archaeological park.
- You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Family
Architecture
History
Tour reference number
164342
Languages
English
HebrewActivity level
Light
Accessibility
Kid Friendly
Traveller reviews
5.0
FAQs
Who is this private tour in Jerusalem best suited for?
This private tour in Jerusalem is perfect for history enthusiasts, archaeology buffs, and families with kids. It's especially suitable for those interested in exploring ancient sites and learning about the historical and geographical significance of King David's city. The tour is kid-friendly, making it a great choice for families.
What should I bring or wear?
Can this private tour in Jerusalem be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?
How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?
Where does the tour start and end?
Is transportation included?
How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?
What languages is this tour offered in?
What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?
Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?
AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
-
5 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
5 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- 30 days before your tour date, the remaining balance is automatically charged.