Between Deeds and Miracles: Safed, from the Kabbalists to the Palmach

Blue-painted alleyways, the synagogues of the Ari and Rabbi Yosef Karo, art galleries, and a tasting of local Safed cheeses, alongside the story of the city's defense and rescue during the 1948 War of Independence by a Palmach unit.

• RegionSea of Galilee & the Galilee
• Duration3-5 hours
• DifficultyEasy-moderate
• Distance3 km
• Upcoming datesOn request, for groups and families
• Pricefrom ₪210
• Suitable for kids✓

In the 16th century sages expelled from Spain came to Safed, and the small Galilee town became a world center of Kabbalah and Jewish law. In the Old City alleys we visit the synagogues of the Ari and Rabbi Yosef Karo and hear about the ideas born here.

We continue to the Artists' Quarter with its galleries and workshops, and finish with a taste of Safed cheese at a family dairy. Along the way: the 1837 earthquake and the 1948 battles in the city.

Route notes

Lots of steps. Modest dress in synagogues. Closed Friday afternoon and Saturday.