13-Day Western Middle East Cross-Country Rail Journey: Turkey, Jordan & Israel in January
This 13-day cross-country journey explores the 'Western' corridor of the Middle East, seamlessly blending the high-speed modern rail of Turkey and Israel with the timeless desert landscapes of Jordan. Traveling in January offers a unique perspective—think snow-dusted minarets in Istanbul and cool, comfortable trekking temperatures in the Rose City of Petra, all while avoiding the sweltering summer heat and heavy tourist crowds.
Designed with families in mind, this route prioritizes comfort and accessibility. By utilizing Turkey’s YHT high-speed rail and Israel’s modern train network, you can cover vast distances without the fatigue of long bus rides. From the vibrant markets of Amman to the tech-forward beaches of Tel Aviv, this itinerary balances historical education with kid-friendly activities and budget-conscious logistics.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Istanbul, Turkey - Arrival & Old City Wonders
Arrival at Istanbul Airport
Touch down at one of the world's most modern hubs and take the M11 metro or a shuttle to the historic Sultanahmet district.
Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque
Marvel at these architectural giants. In January, the lines are shorter, allowing more time to admire the intricate mosaics and blue Iznik tiles.
Grand Bazaar Exploration
Navigate the labyrinthine alleys of the world's oldest covered market. It is the perfect indoor activity to escape the January chill.
Traditional Turkish Dinner
Enjoy a warm 'Testi Kebab' (pottery kebab) in a heated terrace restaurant overlooking the Bosphorus.
Day 2: Istanbul, Turkey - Bosphorus Views & Galata
Topkapi Palace Museum
Explore the opulent home of Ottoman Sultans. Kids will love the Harem and the Imperial Treasury's sparkling jewels.
Bosphorus Public Ferry Cruise
Take a scenic public ferry for a fraction of the cost of a private tour to see the city's skyline from the water.
Galata Tower Panorama
Climb the medieval stone tower for 360-degree views of Istanbul. The winter sunset often turns the sky a brilliant pink.
Istiklal Street Walk
Ride the nostalgic red tram and enjoy some world-famous Turkish ice cream (Dondurma) performances.
Day 3: Istanbul to Ankara, Turkey - High-Speed Rail Journey
Istanbul Söğütlüçeşme Station
Board the YHT (Yüksek Hızlı Tren) high-speed train. It is clean, fast, and offers great views of the Turkish countryside.
Anitkabir (Ataturk Mausoleum)
Arrive in Ankara and visit the monumental tomb of the Republic's founder. The changing of the guard is a hit with children.
Museum of Anatolian Civilizations
Located near Ankara Castle, this museum houses incredible artifacts from the Hittites and Lydians.
Ankara Castle Dinner
Dine in a restored Ottoman house within the castle walls, offering a cozy atmosphere and local flavors.
Day 4: Ankara to Cappadocia, Turkey - Into the Fairy Chimneys
Gençlik Parkı Stroll
Enjoy a morning walk in Ankara's largest park before heading south into the heart of Anatolia.
Scenic Drive to Göreme
Take a comfortable family shuttle through the salt lake region (Tuz Gölü) toward the volcanic landscapes of Cappadocia.
Sunset at Lovers Hill
Watch the unique rock formations glow in the evening light. January often brings a beautiful dusting of snow to the valleys.
Whirling Dervish Show
Attend a spiritual performance in a historic Caravanserai, a great cultural introduction for all ages.
Day 5: Cappadocia, Turkey - Balloons and Underground Cities
Hot Air Balloon Flight
Soar over the fairy chimneys at sunrise. In winter, the snow-covered landscape makes for spectacular photography.
Kaymakli Underground City
Explore the subterranean tunnels and rooms where ancient Christians hid. It’s an adventure that feels like a real-life Indiana Jones set.
Göreme Open Air Museum
Visit UNESCO-listed cave churches with frescoes dating back to the 10th century.
Avanos Pottery Workshop
Try your hand at the potter’s wheel in this town famous for its red clay from the Kızılırmak River.
Day 6: Cappadocia to Amman, Jordan - Skyward Bound
Flight to Amman via Istanbul
Depart from Kayseri Airport for a flight connection to the Jordanian capital. This is the most efficient cross-country link.
Amman Citadel (Jabal al-Qal'a)
Visit the Temple of Hercules for panoramic views of the sprawling white-stone city of Amman.
Roman Theatre
Explore the 6,000-seat theater built into the hillside, still used for cultural events today.
Rainbow Street Food
Sample some of the best falafel and hummus in the world at the famous Al Quds on Rainbow Street.
Day 7: Amman, Jordan - Ancient Roman Splendor
Day Trip to Jerash
Drive north to one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world. Walk the Cardo Maximus and see the Oval Plaza.
Traditional Lunch in Jerash
Enjoy freshly baked flatbread and grilled meats at a local garden restaurant near the ruins.
Royal Automobile Museum
A fantastic stop for families, showcasing the late King Hussein’s impressive collection of rare cars and motorcycles.
Downtown Souq Shopping
Experience the vibrant energy of the local markets, buying spices, olives, and local handicrafts.
Day 8: Amman to Petra, Jordan - The Rose Red City
Early Departure for Petra
A 3-hour drive down the Desert Highway brings you to the gates of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Walking Through the Siq
The 1.2km narrow gorge leading to the Treasury is a magical experience for children and adults alike.
The Treasury & Monastery
Explore the iconic Al-Khazneh and, if feeling energetic, hike up the 800 steps to the massive Monastery.
Petra by Night
Experience the site lit by thousands of candles (available Mon/Wed/Thu)—a truly ethereal winter evening.
Day 9: Petra to Wadi Rum, Jordan - Martian Landscapes
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
A smaller, less crowded version of the main site, featuring rare Nabataean wall paintings.
Wadi Rum 4x4 Desert Tour
Board a jeep for a tour of the red sand dunes and rock bridges where movies like 'The Martian' were filmed.
Sunset Camel Trek
Enjoy a peaceful ride through the desert as the sun dips below the granite and sandstone mountains.
Bedouin Zarb Dinner
Feast on meat and vegetables cooked underground in a traditional pit, followed by stargazing in the clear winter sky.
Day 10: Wadi Rum to Jerusalem, Israel - Cross-Border Transition
Transfer to the Border
Head to the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge crossing. This is the most direct route from Jordan to Jerusalem.
Border Crossing Procedures
Complete immigration and security. January is a lower season, meaning shorter wait times at the border.
Mount of Olives View
Get your first look at the Dome of the Rock and the Old City walls from this iconic vantage point.
Check-in & Shabbat Dinner
Experience a traditional Friday night dinner if your arrival coincides with the Jewish Sabbath.
Day 11: Jerusalem, Israel - The Holy City
Old City Walking Tour
Visit the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Via Dolorosa. The stone streets are cooler and quieter in January.
Machane Yehuda Market
Known as 'The Shuk,' this market is a sensory explosion. Try the rugelach at Marzipan Bakery.
Tower of David Museum
Located near Jaffa Gate, this citadel tells the 3,000-year history of the city with interactive displays.
Mamilla Mall Stroll
Walk through this upscale outdoor mall for some window shopping and a modern contrast to the Old City.
Day 12: Jerusalem to Tel Aviv, Israel - Fast Track to Modernity
Yad Vashem Memorial
A somber but essential visit to the World Holocaust Remembrance Center (recommended for older children/adults).
High-Speed Rail to Tel Aviv
Experience Israel's newest rail link, whisking you from Jerusalem's Navon Station to Tel Aviv in just 34 minutes.
Jaffa Old City & Port
Explore the ancient port of Jaffa, its art galleries, and the famous 'floating orange tree' sculpture.
Beachfront Dinner
Enjoy the Mediterranean breeze and a seafood dinner at the Tel Aviv Port (Namal).
Day 13: Tel Aviv, Israel - Bauhaus & Departure
Rothschild Boulevard
Walk among the UNESCO-listed Bauhaus architecture and enjoy the kiosks in the middle of the boulevard.
Carmel Market (Shuk Ha'Carmel)
Pick up last-minute souvenirs like Halva, dates, and Israeli olive oil.
Tel Aviv Museum of Art
A great indoor option for a rainy January afternoon, featuring world-class modern art.
Ben Gurion Airport Transfer
Take the 20-minute train directly from Tel Aviv Savidor center to the airport for your flight home.
Best Time to Visit Middle East
January is the heart of winter in the Western Middle East. In Turkey, expect temperatures between 3°C and 9°C with occasional snow in Istanbul and Cappadocia, making it a magical, less-crowded time to visit. Jordan and Israel see cooler, rainier weather (approx. 8°C to 16°C), which is perfect for active exploration of ruins like Petra and Jerusalem without the intense heat of the summer months. For families, the lower prices and shorter queues of the 'low season' far outweigh the need for a heavy coat.
Visas & Border Crossings
Visa requirements vary significantly. Turkey offers a straightforward e-Visa for many nationalities. Jordan provides a visa-on-arrival, but the 'Jordan Pass' is highly recommended as it waives the visa fee if you stay at least three nights and covers your Petra entry. Crossing from Jordan to Israel via the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge is the standard route; however, ensure you check current opening times and security protocols. Israel does not stamp passports but issues a separate entry card, which is vital for maintaining travel flexibility in the region.
Getting Around Middle East
This itinerary leverages the best of international and regional transit. Turkey’s YHT high-speed rail is world-class for the Istanbul-Ankara leg. For the cross-border jump to Jordan, regional flights via Turkish Airlines or Pegasus are most efficient. Within Jordan, private drivers or Jett tourist buses are the safest and most reliable for families. Finally, Israel’s modern rail network, including the high-speed Jerusalem-Tel Aviv line, offers a stress-free and scenic way to conclude your journey through the Holy Land.
