Middle East Things To Do

Scoop the best Istanbul views on a cruise up to Anadolu Kavagi, bypassing Dolmabahce Palace, Rumeli Hisari Castle, and both Bosphorus bridges on the way. Keyif Organizasyon arranges private, custom-designed trips for one to 400 people.

Banned by Ataturk in 1925, this religious ceremony (called a sema) has recently made a comeback. On summer Sundays watch the unforgettable dervishes whirl in the wooden-floored, 18th-century Galata Mevlevihanesi building.

Home to Ottoman Sultans for 380 years, the 15th century palace opened to the public in 1924. The 861,112-square-foot grounds encompass the sultan’s living area, concubine dormitories, and the chamber of sacred relics.

Built in 1965, Israel’s finest museum is comprised of five buildings: the Shrine of the Book (which houses the Dead Sea Scrolls), Bezalel Art Museum, which displays Jewish sacred art, the Samuel Bronfman Biblical and Archeological Museum, the Children's Wing, and the Billy Rose Art Garden.

This inimitable compound, with the new triangular-shaped Holocaust History Museum at its center, commemorates the millions who lost their lives in the Holocaust. Highlights include an art gallery, a hall of names, and a synagogue.

For a unique experience, climb atop this path carved into the walls of the Old City. You can begin the journey from either the Jaffa or Damascus Gates. The Old City views from here are the best in town.

Take a walking tour of the city’s Islamic, Christian, and Jewish religious monuments – including, respectively, the Dome of the Rock located in the Haram al-Sharif, the Church of Holy Sepulchre, and the Western Wall.

The waters here, alongside the stunning 12th-century Crusader church honoring Mary’s mother Anne, are believed to be the site where Jesus cured a man of paralysis. Pilgrims often come to the church to sing as the acoustics here are legendary.

Opened in 1974, this museum was erected by a Jewish woman who wanted to honor the outstanding artistic achievements of her Muslim neighbors. You’ll find a solid collection of Palestinian and regional art, Islamic carpets, and stunning jewelry.

The remains of Herod’s Temple, built around 19 BC, were uncovered after the city fell under Israeli rule. Explore the Davidson Exhibition Center here for a virtual tour of what the location may have looked like when it was built.