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The top 33 things to do in Israel

Discover Israel with our list of the very best things to do: whether you are looking for restaurants, landmarks, beaches, experiences or ancient sites – Israel has it all

With all of Israel's opportunities for adventure – from finger lickin' culinary endeavors to uncovering ancient ruins – it's a legitimate challenge to pick and choose what to see and do first. That's why we've come to the rescue with a tried-and-true to DO list that'll have you chomping at the bit for the day's (and night's) itinerary of locally-loved sites , sounds, and signature Israeli moments

Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere.

You can also find out more about  how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world , or take a look at our list of the  50 best things to do in the world right now .

The top things to do in Israel

1.  Stroll the ancient pathways of Jerusalem's Old City

• Attractions
• Public spaces
• Jerusalem Old City

What is it? The Old City is a 220-acre walled area overflowing with more history, culture, and spirituality than any other place in the world.

Why go? Divided into four quarters - Muslim, Christian, Armenian, and Jewish – perk your ears up to have a listen as the ancient area whispers its millennia-old stories. Soak up the intensity as you elbow your way through the mosque-going masses on Fridays. Witness the black hats bob and the ritual fringes sway as the ultra-Orthodox quorum prays at Judaism’s holiest site, the Western Wall . Take in the awe-inspiring song of pilgrims shrouded in their white garb, retracing the path of Jesus through the smooth cobblestoned steps of the Via Dolorosa .  

Don’t miss: The Old City is replete with sites that jump off of the pages of the Bible, such as the Temple Mount , the Tower of David , King David’s Tomb, and the Last Supper room. In the early 70s, Neil Armstrong visited wall excavations at the Davidson Center and said that it was more exciting to him as a Christian to step on the steps of the Temple Mount through Jesus' steps 2,000 years ago than to step foot on the moon.

2.  Ooh and ahh around the White City

What is it? A neighborhood in Tel Aviv rife with original Bauhaus and International-style buildings harking back to the 20s and 30s.

Why go? In 2003, the area was dubbed 'The White City' and designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site for having the largest concentration of Bauhaus buildings in the world.

Don’t miss: Sit at a kiosk café on Rothschild Boulevard and enjoy a coffee amidst the stunning architecture while watching everyday Israeli life unfold in front of your eyes.

3.  Get your dose of contemporary works at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art

• Art and design
• Tel Aviv - Jaffa

What is it? The artfully architected museum houses the best of Israeli art as well as new and old masters.

Why go? Gracing the walls are Israel’s most comprehensive collections of modern, contemporary, and Israeli art . The museum boasts an impressive collection of the old masters, diverse temporary exhibitions, displays of photography, design & architecture, a performance hall, and a beautiful, calming sculpture garden to wander around or relax in.

Don’t miss: The fittingly beautiful restaurant Pastel, just next door to the stunning Paul and Herta Amir wing of the museum.

4.  Wine and dine in the Old City of Jaffa

What is it? An ancient port city with Levantine influences combined with Ottoman-era walkways riddled with churches, galleries , and trendy restaurants .

Why go? One of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean basin, the Old City of Jaffa is proudly perched on a cliff protruding from the water, puncturing the Tel Aviv skyline. The range of attractions in Old Jaffa is startling, from mosques and churches to ancient clock towers, museums, galleries, restaurants and bars - the list of things to do in this new-old city is never ending.

Don’t miss: The iconic Shuk Hapishpeshim  is a maze-like flea market where locals and visitors alike scour for bargains and treasures, while also exploring the various design studios in the area.

5.  Be inspired by a different faith at the Baha’i Gardens

• Parks and gardens
• Hadar-Carmel‏

What is it? Built by the members of the Baha'i faith who consider Mount Carmel a Holy place, the Baha'i Gardens is arguably Haifa 's most famous attraction .

Why go? Built on 19 terraces, beginning at the foot of the mountain and ascending towards its summit, the main axis points towards Akko , a historically and religiously important city to the Baha'i . At the center of the meticulously maintained gardens stands the Shrine of the Bab, the burial place of the religion's founder, whose golden dome illuminates the grounds.

Don’t miss: The gardens offer splendid views of the Haifa Bay, the Galilee , and the Mediterranean . It's possible to tour independently, but there are free guided tours (every day but Wednesday).

6.  Experience a new kind of Israeli cuisine at OCD

• Restaurants
• price 4 of 4

What is it? A communal fine dining experience that has you sitting with old friends and strangers (or new friends) in Jaffa with extreme attention to detail and satisfying, delectable dishes.

Why go? OCD  lives up to its name, offering a meticulous dinner experience. Tasting menus by the infamous 20-something Israeli chef Raz Rahav, are crafted to perfection with flavors that pop and playfulness that entices your tongue.

Don’t miss: Making a reservation on time. There are only two time slots per evening Monday-Friday - 7 or 9:30. And this top-notch dinner is one of the most talked about experiences in town.

7.  Go ‘under the sea’ at the Coral Beach Underwater Observatory

What is it? One of the world’s most spectacular underwater  universes, including an observatory, a nature museum, 40 fish tanks, a sea turtle/stingray pool and a shark pool.

Why go? There's a darkroom specifically designed to showcase the fascinating flashlight fish: a bioluminescent fish that carries a glowing bacteria beneath its eyes. Head just off the shoreline for the underwater observatory which boasts observation decks above and below the surface, then climb 90 steps to the Peace Terrace for expansive views of Israel, Jordan, and Egypt.

Don’t miss: Science-lovers will ooh and aah at the Coral Beach Nature Reserve’s Oceanarium: a virtual-reality, sci-fi film with interactive moving seats.

8.  Delve into the historic intrigue of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

• Religious buildings and sites

What is it? A 12th Century building with 4th century origins, this is one of Jerusalem's most revered Christian sites.

Why go? Built on the site renown by Christians as the location of Jesus' resurrection, the church has been a location of pilgrimage since the 4th century. Christians of all denominations and people from around the world can be seen visiting its various frankincense-laden vestibules and chambers.

Don’t miss: Take an informational guided tour to uncover more about the deeply-rooted history of this ancient church without becoming overwhelmed by its various nooks and crannies.

9.  Zip-line through Timna Park

• Historic buildings and sites

What is it? North of Eilat in the  majestic Negev Desert, Timna Park is an awe-inspiring mix of history and geology. Its 15,000 acres include valleys, cliffs, and even a lake - all surrounding Mount Timna – the world's first ever copper mine.

Why go? The site has a range of attractions , including ancient rock formations like The Mushroom, The Arches, Solomon’s Pillars, and The Valley of Rock Drawings.

Don’t miss:   For those who want a total desert experience , you can camp overnight and truly see everything the park has to offer under the stars.

10.  Float with ease at the Dead Sea

What is it? This most peculiar body of water is located at the lowest point on the face of the earth –with an extremely high salt concentration of 33.7% - making it the saltiest body of water known to humankind.

Why go? The Dead Sea is also chock-full of skin-friendly therapeutic minerals that reputedly combat the effects of aging and skin ailments. Pack your beach bag and head to the popular Kalia Beach, which has changing rooms, showers, lounge chairs, plenty of shady areas, a fully-stocked snack bar, and a lifeguard.

Don’t miss: Indulge in a free mud bath, and slather yourself with the gooey mineral mud from head-to-toe for the ultimate Instagram opp. Just don't dunk your head!

11.  Go out for drinks to Port Said

• price 2 of 4

What is it? This outdoor hangout is the capital of Tel Avivian hipster life .

Why go? Located just across from the largest synagogue in the city, you won’t find anyone praying here. With a massive vinyl collection, the hippest waitresses, and a menu created under the supervision of iconic Israeli chef, Eyal Shani (also of HaSalon , HaMiznon , and Beit Romano ), you’ll understand why Port Said has been successfully serving the cool crowd for years.

Don’t miss: Sitting on the steps out front and waiting for a table. Running into half of the city and schmoozing while in line is part of the whole experience.

12.  Marvel at the circle of nature in the Steinhardt Museum of Natural History

• Natural history

What is it? This newly-minted landmark museum has everything you need to know about Israel’s natural world and then some.

Why go? The only museum of its kind in the world, these collections include 5.5 million plants and animals that illustrate the history of Israel's (and the rest of the Middle East's) biodiversity over the last century.

Don’t miss: The museum  boasts thousands of displays for audiences to observe, which include collections like biological archaeology and the history of human biodiversity.

13.  Observe Judaism's holiest site on earth - the Wailing Wall

What is it? Considered to be the holiest place for the Jewish faith, this 2,000-year-old wall made of limestone, otherwise known as the ' Kotel ' contains the last remains of the Second Jewish Temple.

Why go? No visit to Jerusalem is complete without a visit to the pulsing center of Jerusalem's ancient heritage . The Kotel is a short walk through the Old City of Jerusalem, leading visitors directly to the sacred site.  

Don’t miss: Be one of the annual million people to write a wish or personal note on a scrap of paper and slit it into the cracks of the wall, as visitors have done since the early 18 th century.

14.  Uncover the luxury behind designer heritage brand, Maskit

• Fashion exhibitions

What is it? Launched in Israel in 1954, by Ruth Dayan, Maskit is a luxury women's ready-to-wear brand that pulls influences from Hungarian, Yemenite, Bulgarian, Bedouin, Palestinian, Druze, Lebanese, and Jewish traditional textiles and craftsmanship.

Why go? The original idea, over half a century ago, was to establish a brand to create work opportunities for new immigrants in fabric and design. Today, Israeli designer Sharon Tal (the former head of embroidery at Alexander McQueen) has breathed new blood into the heritage brand, re-establishing its roots with modern takes on each look.

Don’t miss: A visit to Maskit's stunning showroom in Old Jaffa marries the past and present – with both heirlooms from the brand's inception to Maskit’s new “Desert Collection” featuring mesmerizing cloaks re-imagined from original designs.

15.  Trace the test of time at the Photo House

• Tel Aviv City Center

What is it? Israel's impressive progression has been well documented - and The Photo House's archives are here to prove it.

Why go? First opened on Allenby Street in 1936, the Photo House has a massive collection of negatives numbering close to a million images, and today, the shop houses one of the country’s most monumental private archives of historical photographs, recounting the story of Israel's past, and bursting with nostalgia.

Don’t miss: For those searching for a unique gift , any of the images can be blown up into huge posters, magnets, coasters, and more.

16.  Take a trip to the mysterious Tel Megiddo

• Sightseeing

What is it? This sprawling valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has long been important due to its strategic location connecting Egypt to Damascus.

Why go? The area marks an ancient battlefield including a historic battle between the Egyptians and the Canaanites, and many others. It is also the site prophesied by the Book of Revelations in which the Messiah will defeat the Anti-Christ during the battle of Armageddon. Tel Megiddo seems to have a grueling future ahead of it.

Don’t miss:  There is also a small, sleepy kibbutz, a fascinating museum, and archaeological excavations that include a well-preserved water cistern from the time of Solomon.

17.  Trek a revolutionary route on the Israel National Trail

What is it? Diverse landscapes and various routes make the Israel National Trail a must in hiking communities the world over.

Why go?  The routes are a fantastic way to see the country's beautiful landscape, and they all link up to form one giant hiking path that traverses the entire country. Its northern end is at Dan, near the Lebanese border, and it extends to Eilat at the country's southernmost tip on the Red Sea . The trail has been named by National Geographic as one of the world’s best hikes .

Don’t miss: Google Street View photographed the 660-mile trail, the longest trail photographed and the first that spans a whole country in Google Maps history.

18.  Enjoy a mix of history and culture at the Israel Museum

• Neve Sha'anan

What is it? Arguably Israel’s most magnificent cultural asset, the Israel Museum is consistently ranked among the world’s leading art and archaeology museums.

Why go?   Founded in 1965 and housing the largest encyclopedic collections with works dating from prehistory to the present day in archaeology, fine art, and Jewish art, in the world, this is the place to get schooled on Israel’s 5,000-year history.

Don’t miss: Special events that happen throughout the year, including gallery talks, story times and the 'Big Art for Little Artists' series.

19.  Eat at hands-down the most talked about restaurant in Jerusalem, Machneyuda

• Mediterranean
• Machne Yehuda
• price 3 of 4

What is it? One of the most popular restaurants in the entire country, this hotspot serves market -fresh fare in a lively, happening atmosphere.

Why go? With three Jerusalem chefs Uri Navon, Assaf Granit, and Yossi ‘Pappy’ Elad running the show (also of London's The Palomar fame), this rustic haven for foodies offers a changing market-to-table menu with all its ingredients sourced from the nearby Machne Yehuda Market. The open kitchen gives diners a front seat to the action, and the lively , spirited vibes are like no other.

Don’t miss: Go for the palatable tasting menu to get a mouthful of everything the restaurant has to offer. And book rezzies waaaay in advance.

20.  Fall in love with Caesarea's venerable architecture

What is it? The beautiful port city of Caesarea is known for its remarkable blend of ancient and new architecture.

Why go?  Built by King Herod in the first century BC and serving as the regional capital, today, the city beckons thousands of years back into the past with its innovative, one-of-a-kind underwater park. Visitors can view Herod’s elaborate port and marvel at sunken ships and ancient cargo that look as though they’ve been transported straight out of Pirates of the Caribbean.

Don’t miss: Archeological  findings attest to the inhabitants’ high standard of living; the port, which encompasses no less than 50 acres, features the remains of pools, wave breakers, docking piers, a promenade, and a lighthouse.

21.  Water Hike through the Banias Nature Reserve

• Rivers, lakes and ponds
• Golan Hights

What is it? Rife with abundant natural and historical beauty, from the ruins of ancient cities to the roaring Banias Waterfall, this is the biggest waterfall in Israel.

Why go? Hours can be spent here; walking the trails, exploring the ruins, and picnicking in the lush green woodlands. The Banias Spring emerges at the foot of Mount Hermon and flows powerfully through a canyon for 3.5 km, eventually leading to the waterfall - the most impressive cascade in the country.

Don’t miss: A stepped path near the spring leads to the Banias Cave , where the remains of a temple built by Herod the Great can be seen.

22.  Revel in the unique and youthful atmosphere at Romano

What is it? This lively bar situated right in the heart of Florentine suits all your hipster needs and drinking desires.

Why go? This is the go-to bar for the beautiful crowd of Tel Aviv’s preeminent hipster kingdom. DJs play sets fusing funk and reggae, electro and hip-hop until the early hours of the morning. With beer on tap and a groovy crowd, this is a must-visit if you have even an ounce of bohemian blood bubbling inside of you.

Don’t miss: The food at Romano is an essential part of the experience. Dig in to all the small plates and wash 'em down with shots of anise-flavored arak.

23.  Stroll down the Tel Aviv Promenade

• Tel Aviv Beach 

What is it? The vibrant stretch of coastline from Jaffa in the south to Tel Aviv's port in the north awakens all of the senses with a feast of colors, sights, songs, and smells.

Why go? Nothing beats walking – or cycling – along the seaside promenade , breathing in the fresh, salty air of the Mediterranean. With Old Jaffa stamping the horizon to the south and the city’s skyscrapers to the north, this is the all-time best spot for people-watching and whizzing by.

Don’t miss: Sitting on a bench to watch local life unfold before your eyes with beach-goers, paddle players, sunset buskers, magicians and more doing their thing as the waves gently crash on the shore.

24.  Hike through the Ramon Crater

• Mitzpe Ramon

What is it? The world’s largest erosion crater (“Makhtesh Ramon in Hebrew) boasts spectacular sunsets and once-in-a-lifetime hikes for travelers from all over the world to visit .

Why go? The Negev Desert 's Ramon Crater has an ancient history dating back 220 million years to when an ocean once filled the massive hole. With a network of hikes ranging from easy loops to advanced mountain scales, this worldwide landmark is the perfect place for thrill seekers to get their adrenaline fix.

Don’t miss: Be sure to catch the unbeatable sunset at the Camel Lookout point or camp out overnight under the stars.

25.  Visit the Holocaust memorial museum, Yad Vashem

What is it? Yad Vashem is the largest and most comprehensive Holocaust museum and memorial in the world.

Why go? The state-of-the-art, 45-acre campus comprises indoor museums and outdoor monuments, exhibitions, memorial sites, gardens, sculptures, and world-class research and education centers. The museum’s research is devoted to commemorating the victims and the events of the Holocaust and accurately documenting one of the most ominous periods in human history.

Don’t miss: A hollowed-out cavern with a single candle reflected by a series of mirrors commemorates the 1.5 million children who were lost in the Holocaust.

26.  Take the kids to the Holon Children’s Museum

What is it? Purpose-built for kids to explore, this innovative museum offers a range of activities geared to kids ages 2-12.

Why go? The award-winning museum is a wonderland for kiddies, but it is just clever enough for adults to not-so-secretly love the special exhibits on display. Unlike conventional museums, children are encouraged to touch all of the displays, and even play a role in the exhibits. Designed to create tolerance and dialogue is what makes this museum a real-world model for all.

Don’t miss: Not-to-be-missed are the famous 'Dialogue in the Dark' and 'Invitation to Silence' exhibits, two experiences that provide emotional and telling insight into the worlds of blind and deaf people.

27.  Go on an artful excursion to Ein Hod

What is it? Nestled on a hillside peppered with olive groves, this artists’ colony boasts spectacular views and archeological treasures.

Why go? A visit to the Carmel region without a stop in Ein Hod would be remiss. As well as being jam-packed with galleries and museums , Ein Hod affords views of the Mediterranean Sea and even has a Crusader fortress. There are often free jazz concerts in the outdoor amphitheater and a host of cafes and restaurants make this a popular weekend day spot.

Don’t miss: The range of workshops visitors can take part – everything from sculpting, printing, silk-screening, ceramics and pottery to blacksmithing, lithography, mosaics, and stained glass, as well as several music workshops.

28.  Discover the wonderfully weird mix of elements at the Materials Library in the Holon Mediatheque

What is it? Showcasing over a thousand samples of the world’s most cutting-edge materials, this innovative display includes the very latest in plastics, wood, ceramics, paper, metal, composites, textiles and biodegradables.

Why go? : The space looks something like a kindergarten class on steroids. It's also one of a handful of material museums in the world that is actually open to the public.

Don’t miss An entrance ticket to the adjacent and amazing Design Museum also includes admission to the Materials Library – the best 2-for-1 around.

29.  Kiss the chef at HaSalon

What is it? Celebrated chef Eyal Shani ’s HaSalon is a quintessential Israeli culinary experience. The famous chef has his own straightforward style, one that has truly shaped contemporary Israeli cuisine.

Why go? Diners will find the best vegetables and raw materials coming together in a slick, but hip manner. Arrive for a late night party of flavors and see how every ingredient stands out on its own. The exquisite menu changes on a whim, so there are always delectable surprises.

Don’t miss:   It’s only open Wednesday and Thursday evenings so be sure to plan ahead for this unique dining experience.

30.  Sip on flavorful wine at Tishbi Winery

What is it? Experience over 30 years of a wide array of wines , jellies, and jams ... and a memorable day trip to the countryside of Zichron Ya’akov .

Why go? Established in 1985, Tishbi Winery grew from humble beginnings to a much-admired internationally acclaimed winery. Tishbi Estate Winery remains family run and offers a tasting center including delicious chocolate pairings, and guided wine tours in Hebrew and English. The estate also sells farm-fresh fruit jams, wine jams, and olive oil.

Don’t miss: Pop by the delicious on-site restaurant and see for yourself why the winery produces approximately 1,000,000 bottles every year.

31.  Explore one of Tel Aviv's very first neighborhoods, Kerem Hateimanim

• Markets and fairs
• Shuk  HaCarmel

What is it? What is known as the Yemenite Quarter , just below the iconic Carmel Market , houses a warm and welcoming labyrinth of small streets wafting smells of home-cooked stews, kebabs, and other Yemeni comfort foods . The authentic eateries and story-telling cooks are a neighborhood classic.

Why go? It is the closest travelers will get to staying in a local's home – the food and hospitality are purely wonderful . Don't miss the area's raucous Friday mornings and afternoons before everything shuts down for Shabbat. The area is transformed with lively music, hordes of people, and good vibes.

Don’t miss: At the top of the Carmel Market is the famous Yemen Uzi Eli Etrog Man shop whose age-old medicinal juices are as refreshing as they are healing.

32.  Let go of your inhibitions at the Nalaga’at Center

• Performing arts space

What is it? Prepare yourself for a totally unique theater-going experience exploring culture and arts from an entirely different perspective - a meeting place for both the deaf and blind.

Why go? Located in the heart of Jaffa’s port , the Nalaga’at Center is home to one of Israel’s most unconventional and exceptional theaters : both deaf and blind actors and hosts take the audience on a magical tour into the districts of their own inner world.

Don’t miss: Prior to the performance, visitors can try their hand at eating completely in the dark, while being served by blind individuals at the on-site Black Out restaurant. Nalaga’at is also home to Café Kapish - run completely by deaf barristers who are experts at reading lips.

33.  Taste the sea at Manta Ray

What is it? Located directly on Tel Aviv's beachfront , you can literally inhale the sea's salty air and fresh seafood all at once.

Why go? The winning view and top-notch menu make Manta Ray one of the most popular restaurants in Tel Aviv . Enjoy a leisurely meal from breakfast to dinner and then head out for a dip.

Don’t miss: The Manta Ray kiosk has a limited menu, but allows beach goers who prefer to eat on the beach a nice lounging area or beach chairs even closer to the sea's glittering waves.

Check out our guide to the best of Jaffa:

The ultimate Jaffa area guide

With so much hustle and bustle going on in its White City neighbor, sometimes people forget the beautiful gem of Israeli culture that exists on the southern port. 

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One-Week Itinerary

Best Israel Tours

Top Things to Do in Israel

Best Beaches

Best National Parks

Outdoor Markets

How to Visit the Dead Sea

Food to Try in Israel

Things to Do in Jerusalem

Top Sacred Sites

Guide to the Western Wall

Best Restaurants

Tel Aviv Nightlife

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Ben Gurion Airport Guide

Driving in Israel

Reasons to Visit Israel

Top Destinations

Top 15 Destinations in Israel

Anton Petrus / Getty Images

Alluring and inimitable, Israel is one of those destinations that stirs up a myriad of contemplations when visiting. Located on the Mediterranean Sea and bordered by Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Egypt, this Middle Eastern country is known as the biblical Holy Land by Jews, Muslims, and Christians. For such a small country, there is much to see and do here, even if you’re more of a history buff than a religious devotee. From the incredibly diverse topography to the chronicles embedded in the streets of Jerusalem, to the modern seaside city of Tel Aviv, and to the ethereal tranquility of the Dead Sea, Israel has a way of engaging wanderers who seek depth in their travels. Keep reading to learn about the top things to experience while visiting this country.

Tel Aviv and Jaffa Port

  Ilan Shacham / Getty Images

Dining, shopping, and nightlife opportunities abound in the coastal beach city of Tel Aviv, which in many ways can feel like the American city of Miami. You’ll see vibrant graffiti art, modern architecture as well as the largest collection of Bauhaus buildings in the world, and plenty of boutiques selling everything from textiles to home goods to clothing to furniture. Walk along the beach promenade or take a tour of the area via bicycle or Segway. Be sure to visit Carmel Market to sample different types of Israeli foods and drinks, influenced by a multitude of cultures.

Explore the winding and narrow streets of Jaffa’s Old City, also known as Yafo, and its port. The contrast of the oldest port in the world, home to multiethnic communities, next to the modern city of Tel Aviv is stark. See the Jaffa Clock Tower, Saint Nicholas Monastery, the Great Mahmoudiya Mosque, the Old Jaffa Museum of Antiquities, and several gardens, squares, and courtyards.

Mount of Olives

 mbell / Getty Images

Located in east Jerusalem, near the Old City, Mount of Olives is a worthwhile place to visit to gain perspective of the land—you can see far and wide over the Kidron Valley to Jerusalem and Temple Mount when standing on this mountain. Olive groves once covered this Jewish burial ground, which has been the resting place for notable Jewish biblical figures for thousands of years. Dome of the Ascension, where Jesus is said to have made his last footprint on Earth, is located in these hills as is the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus prayed before crucifixion.  

Jerusalem’s Old City

 Wendy Altschuler 

The walled and historic Old City of Jerusalem has been at the epicenter for religious faith, sacred to millions of people for thousands of years. Tourists, entering through one of seven entrances (the New Gate, Damascus Gate, Herod’s Gate, Lions’ Gate, Dung Gate, Zion Gate, and Jaffa Gate), explore the four uneven quarters—Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Armenian—within the stone walls. Visit religious sites, look for goods throughout the many stalls in the quarters, and dine out in any of the various eateries. The top must-see sites to experience here are the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, and Temple Mount. Explore Jerusalem through one of our recommended tour companies .

The Western Wall

Also called the Wailing Wall or Kotel, Jerusalem’s Western Wall is a moving sight for people of any faith but particularly those of the Jewish religion. Millions of pilgrims make their way here each year to pray, read scripture, and write prayers and wishes on pieces of paper that then get wedged into the cracks of the limestone wall, the only remainder of the wall surrounding the Temple Mount and the site of the First and Second Temples of Jerusalem, which were destroyed first by the Babylonians and then by the Romans. The wall is divided for men and women in Prayer Plaza, and conservative dress is required to visit the free site.

Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock

roevin / Getty Images

The grounds of the Dome of the Rock and Al Aqsa Mosque—known as Al Haram Ash Sharif (The Noble Sanctuary) to Muslims and Har Ha Bayit (Temple Mount) to Jews—is one of the holiest sites for Jews and Muslims. According to the Muslim faith, the Prophet Muhammad made the ascent to heaven at Temple Mount, where the Dome of the Rock sits, and Jews believe this is the site where Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son. Visitors are allowed to view the area, however; only Muslims are allowed to go inside the temple. Modest dress is required.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre

You’ll see people in awe, crying, praying, and placing purchased objects on the Stone of Anointing, where Jesus’s body was prepared for burial, inside the Holy Sepulchre, a church built on the site of Jesus’s crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. Located in the Christian quarter of the Old City, you’ll see two chapels—one Greek Orthodox and one Catholic—and the Aedicule, a smaller chapel housing the Holy Sepulchre. Be prepared for long lines as tourists make their way through the sections.

Mahne Yehuda Market

Don’t be shy when you wander through this market full of delicious bites. Try the various types of halva, breads, nuts, dates, olives, hummus, pastas, and freshly squeezed juices. Take photographs of the tables with mounds of multi-hued spices. Watch locals haggle over prices on cuts of meat and fish. Take your time, sit at an outdoor café, and enjoy the great people-watching. This market is where everyone comes together to shop, eat, and relish each other’s company.

Via Dolorosa

julof90 / Getty Images 

Christian pilgrims make their way to Jerusalem’s Old City to walk the route Jesus walked from condemnation to crucifixion. Visitors walk and pray at 14 different Stations of the Cross including spots where Jesus was condemned, falls, meets his mother, is stripped of his garments, is nailed to the cross, and is put in the tomb. The Via Dolorosa, or Sorrowful Way, is an important historical and religious route not only for pilgrims and tourists, but also, for a Roman Catholic procession held each week.

City of David

Richard T. Nowitz / Getty Images

Archaeological digs still happen in the City of David, a settlement from the Canaanite period, and ancient relics from the Bronze Age to the Iron Age are constantly being discovered. See the Gihon Spring and the Pools of Siloam, and walk through Hezekiah’s Tunnel, which are part of an archaeological park. Splash through the Siloam Tunnel where water from the early spring still flows. It’s worth noting that the site, occupied by Israel, is controversial in terms of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Tower of David Museum

 Lucky-Photographer / Getty Images

Near the Jaffa Gate entrance to Jerusalem’s Old City, lies the Tower of David , where inside the citadel a museum sits. The museum hosts changing exhibits, cultural events and the well-loved nighttime showing of The Night Spectacular Sound and Light Show, which tells the story of Jerusalem’s history through the use of a laser projection system on the tower’s walls.

The Israel Museum

Glow Images/Getty

To learn about Israel’s art and archaeology, visit the Israel Museum. You’ll see the Shrine of the Book, which is where the Dead Sea Scrolls are located. Wander through the Archaeology and Fine Arts wings and explore the European, Modern, and Israeli art collections. Outside, walk around the large replica of the Second Temple Period.

Sarfoto / Getty Images

An ancient port city on Israel’s Mediterranean coast, built by Herod the Great, Caesarea is an archeological park which includes a large Roman amphitheater and remnants of a hippodrome where prisoners once fought wild animals, and horse-pulled chariots raced around a track. You’ll see ancient mosaics, created in intricate patterns, as well as a Roman aqueduct and palace remains.

Negev Desert

The vast Negev desert, which encompasses more than half of Israel’s land area, is home to the Makhtesh Ramon, a large erosion crater. Bedouins make their home throughout the desert, and some tours will allow you to meet a family in person. Jeep, camel, and hiking tours are popular in this area as is rappelling off of the edge into the Ramon crater.

Ten times saltier than the ocean and the lowest point on land, the Dead Sea is a well-visited destination in Israel and Jordan. People come for a spa vacation, to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, and to float on top of the water in an otherworldly landscape. Cover yourself in mineral-rich mud and soak in the water—just be sure that you don’t get the water in your eyes or in a cut, because it will sting.

 Wendy Altschuler

Masada National Park, located about an hour south of Jerusalem on the edge of the Dead Sea, is one of the most visited destinations in Israel. King Herod the Great built this ancient fortress on a plateau, which was later occupied by Jewish rebels who were fighting against the Roman Empire. After seven years, the Jewish people committed mass suicide rather than fall into the hands of the Romans, which today is seen as a strong example of resolve. Hike up the path to the top or opt for the cable car and give yourself a couple of hours to roam the grounds.

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33 Best Things To Do In Israel in 2024

No need to tell you where to find the Western Wall in Jerusalem and the beaches in Tel Aviv, but there are so many more cool things to do in Israel that not everyone has heard of yet. What about amazing national parks, zip lining, mountain tops with amazing views, spectacular roman amphitheaters, scuba diving, or even skiing. In this most complete Israel travel guide with all the best places to visit and the best things to do when visiting Israel.

Israel is a popular tourist destination thanks to its diverse landscape which varies from the coast, valley, mountain, desert, and everything in between. Each one of these diverse landscapes holds some of the most beautifully unique and well-preserved Israel tourist attractions. Tourists from different parts of the world travel to Israel in large numbers. In this list you will all the amazing things to do in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, Eilat, in North Israel and some really cool unique things to do in Israel.

In 2017 I visited Israel for the first time and I returned in 2019, 2021 and recently in March 2023 was my last trip to Israel. Of all those experiences I wrote a big article with all my Israel travel tips: Everything You Need To Know When Visiting Israel in 2023 .

Make sure you stay connected on your trip to Israel. Prepaid sim cards and e-sim cards with data for Israel are pretty cheap. See here where to buy a sim card at Tel Aviv Airport Ben Gurion  or check out my complete guide for  buying a sim card for israel in 2023 .

My recommendations for the ultimate things to do in Israel are:

• Hot Air Balloon Ride in the Negev Desert
• ATV Riding in Maktesh Ramon
• Boat trip on the Dead Sea
• Visit Gaza Border
• Masada National Park
• Food Tour in Tel Aviv/Jerusalem
• Visit Nazareth

1. Masada National Park

Masada is a Hebrew name meaning fortress. This rugged natural fortress is a symbol of bravery and self-sacrifice representing the exile of the Jews from the Holy Land. The fortress which was built as a palace complex constituting the most complete Roman-style works survives till today inside the Masada National Park.

The Masada National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds a special place in the heart of Israelites; it holds outstanding universal value as well. The park is strategically positioned overlooking the great natural beauty of the Dead Sea. The Masada site was declared a National Park in 1966 and is now under the management of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority in association with the Israel Antiquities Authority.

Visiting Masada Mountain is one of the top things to do in Israel especially for sunrise. An hour before sunrise the park opens and there are several trails that lead to the top. Find out everything you need to know about visiting Masada Israel in one of my latests Israel travel blogs.

2. Tel Aviv food tours

If you travel to Israel you will quickly find out about the delicious Israeli cuisine. Therefore a food tour in Tel Aviv is a must do when visiting Israel. For more about food tours in Tel Aviv (and also Jerusalem) have a look at my article about the best Tel Aviv food tours .

3. Ein Gedi

Ein Gedi is the largest oasis in Israel and is found in the Judean Desert not far away from the Dead Sea within the Dead Sea Valley. The name Ein Gedi is generally used to refer to Kibbutz Ein Gedi and the nearby nature reserve.

The Ein Gedi National Park has a 10-hectare botanic garden that is home to about 900 plant species. Inside the park, there are two rivers which flow throughout the year and two springs. Some of the names given to the landscape within the park are derived from the Biblical stories of king David.

Between November and April visiting Ein Gedi is one of the best things to do in Israel. Otherwise, it’ll be too cold in winter or too hot in summer. There are trails that tourists can follow past the waterfalls, springs, caves, and canyons and you will also see some kind of deer.

A visit to Ein Gedi is mostly combined with tours to the Masada Mountain and the Dead Sea. Here is an example of such an Israel tour.

4. Betzavta

What to do in Israel when you have seen all the touristy stuff, partied hard in Tel Aviv, done with all the fun things to do in Israel but still have a spare night? Betzavta is a new concept that brings locals and travelers together as you will get invited to a local home for a traditional Israeli dinner. More authentic than this it doesn’t get. Betzavta sets you up with a family around your location.

In my case a family cooked for all my friends. When I walked into the family's house I could not believe my eyes, this was like a 5* hotel buffet. We introduced ourselves briefly, before the dad opened the buffet with a short prayer and the feast started. The food was delicious, the conversations super interesting and best of all it was a lot of fun!

If you are looking for unique things to do in Israel this is definitely one of them as this is not something you will find in any Israel travel guide!

5. Sleep in a Bedouin Camp

Would you associate traveling to Israel with staying in a Bedouin Camp in the desert? It is a Middle East thing to do, so yes this is also one of the things to do in Israel. Meet a Bedouin family, drink tea and listen to their stories. Ask them all you ever wanted to know about life in the desert, as these people were the ancestors of the modern digital nomads. The Negev Desert is a popular Israel tourist attraction, but it's a playground for the Bedouins.

Is this unique activity in Israel something for you then I can recommend to check out the Kfarhanokdim website . They are located in the Negev Desert and their camp looks awesome.

6. Hot air balloon ride in the Negev Desert

When you think about fun things to do in Israel a hot air balloon ride does not pop up in your mind straight away, but damn this was the best start of my morning in a long time. It was kept a secret and only the night before it was announced: Guys tomorrow morning we have to get up and leave the Bedouin Camp at 3.00am! ‘No, you are kidding right?’ Nope but we are going to watch sunrise from out of a hot air balloon! :)

We were in the middle of the Negev Desert and we needed a jacket to keep us warm in the early morning, but you could feel the excitement among everyone as we were about to experience one of the most unique things to do in Israel. Up in the air we watched the sunrise in the distance and enjoyed the amazing views over the vast Negev Desert. If you are looking for romantic things to do in Israel then surprise your lover with a balloon ride and a breakfast for two on a unique location afterwards.

7. Experience the Gay parade in Tel Aviv

Ok I admit you will most probably find this in your guidebook as almost 30% of the people in Tel Aviv is gay and this yearly returning festival is the second biggest gay parade in the world. But did you know that even if you are straight this is one of the most fun things to do in Israel. With 200.000 happy people in the streets of Tel Aviv expressing their happiness there is no escaping, you will have to party along! I went out around midday and partied until sunset on the beach. Yes obviously there were ‘too many’ gay people, so this is the reaction of a straight guy finally seeing a girl!

But as you can see I had a blast!

8. Boat tour on the Dead Sea

This is definitely not an off the beaten path Israel destination, this is one of their most popular tourist spots so why did I add this to my list of unique things to do in Israel you must be thinking. Well let me tell you that there are only two boats on the Dead Sea and one boat that takes tourists out. This boat tour is by far the best way to see the coastline of the Dead Sea. This unique place on earth should be one of the reasons to visit Israel . Click on the link for a list of my 24 reasons to travel to Israel.

9. Buggy riding and zip lining in Makhtesh Ramon

Stop here if you are looking for fun things to do in Israel! This was one of my favorite activities I did on my first trip to Israel. Makhtesh Ramon looks like a massive crater hit by an unimaginable huge meteorite, but that is a myth. It has something to do with tectonic plates and stuff, but I will save you the details. Admiring the views over Makhtesh Ramon from the 'crater' rim is already one of the top things to do in Israel, but making your way down to the bottom and exploring the area in a buggy or ATV or Tomcat or whatever it is called is super fun.

Damn these things are powerful but this is exactly what you need in a rough landscape like this. Fasten your seat belts for one of the most adventurous things to do in Israel...

 Zip lining can also be arranged. In case you are in for a different adventure then may be you want to try to hiking through Maktesh Ramon .

10. Israel National Trail (INT)

For the extreme adventurers traveling to Israel there is the amazing 1000 kilometer long Israel National Trail. It goes across the entire country from north to south in a zigzag manner; starting at Tel Dan and ending at the Red sea. The trail goes over some of the most beautiful and history-packed scenery that Israel has to offer. Definitely one of the unique things to do in Israel.

The best time to hike this crazy path is either between February and April or between October and November. The trail gives both local and international tourists the chance to experience superb desert scenery in a relatively easy accessible way. The Israel National Trail is well marked which makes it very easy to follow without necessarily needing a map. But hey walking a 1,000 kilometer (621 miles) across the country is not really an Israel travel tip, just for those out there looking for crazy things to do in Israel. :)

11. Midburn Festival

If you ask me about one of my best experiences on my first trip to Israel I would say: the Midburn Festival! It is the second biggest Burning Man festival in the world and apart from dancing until sunrise, this festival is a fabulous experience for those who are looking for unique things to do in Israel. Welcome to CrazyLand, a temporary city in the middle of nowhere somewhere in the Negev Desert in South Israel that arises out of nothing and one week later will be gone leaving no trace or whatsoever.

Read my full experience in  The 10 Principles Of Burning Man As A Virgin  including all the photos. Something you have to see! If this fits into you agenda then you just found yourself one of the top things to do in Israel! Check here the Midburn Israel website . The Festival is being held in again in October 2023 but the dates are not yet confirmed.

12. Israel nightlife | Local markets become party places

Main cities all over the world have their local markets where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, antiques, and Artisan stores. Visiting markets like Mahane Yehuda Jerusalem or the Flea Market in Tel-Aviv will give you a colorful, tasteful and cultural experience by itself. But, for me, what makes this experience a unique thing to do in Israel is to go to those markets at night! Around sunset, they change their face, suddenly they become a nightlife center. In my blog with Israel tips I already told you the Israeli nightlife is booming and this is another example! Find restaurants, bars, great music, and local beautiful people. What a fun and unique atmosphere. Romantic Tel Aviv travel tip: if you are around the Flea Market with your other half, finish your evening with walking around Jaffa port, it's super romantic and quiet thing to do in Te Aviv.

13. Israel Museum Jerusalem

This museum is not only the largest cultural institution in Israel but is also one of the world’s top encyclopaedic museums and one of the best things to do in Jerusalem. It is located atop a hill in the Givat Ram neighborhood. Jerusalem was founded in 1965 and over the period the Israel Museum has been able to collect up to 500,000 items which are representative of the Holy Land. The holdings range from art to the most precious objects from biblical times.

The museum covers about 50,000 square meters and with about 800,00 tourists every year it is one of the top Israel tourist attractions. Some of the most valuable items on display here include the necklaces worn by Jewish brides in Yemen, a nail to attest the practice of crucifixion during the time of Jesus, and a mosaic Islamic prayer niche from 17th century Persia. Visiting the Israel Museum was one of the most valuable Israel travel tips I got from a local.

14. Yad Vashem - Holocaust Memorial Center

Yad Vashem is the official Holocaust memorial center dedicated to preserving the memories of all the victims who died. The monument honors the six million Jews who fought their Nazi oppressors as well as the Gentiles who helped the needy Jews.

The memorial site dedicated to the Holocaust and genocide was built in 1953. It’s also referred to as the Mount of Remembrance. There are museums here that cater to the public alongside a library, an educational center, a publishing house, and a research institute. Yad Vashem attracts about one million tourists making it the second-most-visited Israel tourist attraction.

Yad Vashem is one of the best things to do in Jerusalem as it is located just a stone throw away from the city.

15. Stalactite Cave Nature Reserve

A stalactite is a formation that is mostly seen hanging from the ceiling of caves and hot springs. It’s usually made up of lava, sand, mud, or minerals. The Stalactite Cave Nature Reserve has two other names; it’s also known as Soreq Cave or the Avshalom Cave Nature Reserve. This amazingly spectacular cave is the largest and most beautiful stalactite-stalagmite cave in the country and unmistakably one of the coolest things to do in Israel. The gem that’s hidden deep within the earth is found inside a reserve which comprises of an extensive natural woodland area.

The cave is 91m long, 80m wide, and 15m high – it’ll take you about half an hour to cover the round route inside. However, a tour of the entire reserve should take you about 2 hours. Even though the cave isn’t all that big, it is densely packed with different types of stalactites. Some of the names given to the stalactite and stalagmite shapes include “elephant ears”, “macaroni field”, “Romeo and Juliet”, and “sculptures garden”.

Visiting the Stalactite Cave Nature Reserve is regarded one of the best things to do in Jerusalem as it is only a 40 minute drive away from the city.

16. Bethlehem

Needless to say that Bethlehem also deserves a place in this ultimate Israel travel guide as it is one of the best things to do in Jerusalem. Just a stone throw away from the city this town is home to the Church of the Nativity, one of the oldest churches in the world. The town attracts multitudes of pilgrims from different parts of the world who come to see the Biblical birthplace of Jesus.

Bethlehem is also believed to be the birthplace of King David and the traditional site of Rachel’s Tomb.

There is also so much to see and do in Bethlehem even for the non-religious. The streets are almost always congested and busting with activity. There are numerous tourist attractions around the city such as the Israeli Separation Wall which divides Bethlehem and Jerusalem. The wall has been turned into a vast canvas with street art.

Bethlehem to me was of the most interesting things to do in Israel. Simply a place that couldn’t stop amaze me in many ways.

17. Mount Zion

Mount Zion is another of those amazing things to do in Jerusalem, located just outside the walls of the Old City. Although this name is specifically used to refer to the actual hill, it is also used to generally refer to the entire land of Israel.

On your tour of the mountain, you’ll see some very snap-happy pilgrims trying hard to capture moments and at the same time keep up with their guides. Some of the most prominent sites on Mount Zion are King David’s Tomb, the Chamber of the Holocaust, the Room of the Last supper, and the precursor of Yad Vashem.

For Pelgrimage there is an endless list of things to do in Israel, but even when you are not religious Mount Zion and the rest of Jerusalem is worth visiting.

18. Beit Guvrin Maresha National Park

The 1,250 acre Beit Guvrin Maresha National Park has many archeological sites that visitors can explore. These sites date back to some 2000 years back. The ruins of Maresha can be found within the park. The city of Maresha where the National Park can be found was a city in ancient Judah.

Both Beit Guvrin and Maresha were excavated in 1992 and 1989 respectively by an Israeli archeologist. Some of the artifacts found at the ruins include a Jewish cemetery, burial caves, a Byzantine church, a Roman-Byzantine 3,500-capacity amphitheater, mosaics, and public bathhouses.

Beit Guvrin Maresha National Park is also called the land of a thousand caves and can be found about 1 hour Southwest from Jerusalem. When you are an adventure traveler then this is one of the must see places in Israel.

No need to tell you that the amazing beaches in Tel aviv are on of the best places to visit in Israel as well as the Tel Aviv Nightlife. But there is more around the city and these are my recommendations for things to do in Tel Aviv.

19. Jaffa Flea Market

Jaffa is one of the world’s ancient ports from which the modern-day Tel Aviv grew. The port itself is already a top thing to do in Tel Aviv but the Jaffa Flea Market which is also known as Shuk Hapishpishim in Hebrew is a top Israel tourist attraction in Israel. Vendors in this market sell everything from handmade jewelry, old second-hand jeans, traditional Arabic pottery, Indian mildewed clothes, Persian tiles and Judaica. 

Stopping by this flea market that’s been operational for over a century is an incredible cultural experience. The market is a great place to find unique items at affordable prices. It’s open from Sunday through Friday and when visiting Tel Aviv this is a must.

20. Caesarea National Park

Caesarea is a small wealthy town on Israel’s Mediterranean coast about 50 km to the north of Tel Aviv. This archeological treasure also has some of the most beautiful beaches in Israel. The Caesarea National Park comprises a giant city and port. The city was created 2000 years ago by Herod in honor of Augustus Caesar. The ancient city was, in the 12th century, recreated as a massive Crusader fortress whose tower still stands tall.

There is a huge amphitheater right on the ocean that is often overlooked by tourists visiting Israel. In my opinion this place was one of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Israel.

21. Sea Of Galilee

If you travel to Israel and are looking for stunning scenery, you need to visit the Sea of Galilee, one the must see places in Israel. It actually isn’t really a sea but a damn large freshwater lake. The Sea of Galilee was known as Sea of Gennesaret; it is also referred to as Lake Galilee as well as Lake Tiberias. The Sea of Galilee is approximately 13 miles long and 8 miles wide covering an area of 64 square miles.

The Jordan River is the main source of water for the Sea of Galilee although it’s still partly fed by underground springs. The Sea of Galilee is one of the best things to do in North Israel. This lake is Israel’s most important source of drinking water, but it also has a huge religious significance, and has beautiful surroundings comprising of beaches and mountains.

22. Mount Arbel National Park

Mount Arbel is a stunning and majestic mountain situated in the Lower Galilee prominently facing the Sea of Galilee. Located next to the Sea of Galilee makes Mount Arbel another amazing thing to do in North Israel. The mountain is inside the Mount Arbel National Park and Nature Reserve which is also home to an amazing cave fortress as well as ancient ruins of a synagogue.

Hiking up the Mount Arbel is another adventurous thing to do in Israel and it gives you amazing views of the surrounding areas. While at the top of the mountain, you can catch a glimpse of Mount Hermon, the Golan Heights, as well as other famous landmarks such as Safed and the Horns of Hattin.

23. Visit Nazareth

Of course the world famous town of Nazareth can’t be missed in this list of the best things to do in Israel. Nazareth is a city situated in the north of Israel and is also referred to as “the Arab capital of Israel”. Although a large part of the population comprises of Arabs, the city has several holy places and shrines which commemorate biblical events. For this reason, Nazareth is a major center of Christian Pilgrimage and has attracted hundreds of millions of pilgrims from across the globe and therefore one of the top places to visit in Israel.

In addition to being a religious center, the city also serves as a major cultural center. Over the years, the historic Old City has been renovated to restore and preserve its architectural beauty.

There are so many places here that are associated with the Annunciation, childhood, and the early ministry of Jesus Christ. These include the Basilica of the Annunciation, the Greek Orthodox Church of the Archangel Gabriel, the Greek Catholic Synagogue Church, and the Franciscan Church of St. Joseph.

When visiting Israel Nazareth is one of the must see places in Israel!

24. Basilica Of The Annunciation

The Basilica of Annunciation is also commonly referred to as the Church of the Annunciation. This Latin Catholic Church was built over the area where the Catholic tradition believes that angel Gabriel appeared to Virgin Mary and announced that she would conceive and give birth to Jesus. This place is among the most sacred places for Christians and one of the must see places in Israel.

The huge 2-story basilica was completed in 1969 and is constructed using modern architecture. The structure which was designed by Giovanni Muzio, an Italian architect, is colorfully decorated. It has two interconnected churches: one on top of the other. The main entrance of the upper church is on the northern side. Over the door on the southern side, stands a statue of 14-year-old Virgin Mary welcoming all who come visiting.

25. Haifa Gardens

Haifa is the 3rd largest city in Israel after Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Today it is home to a mixed population comprising of Jews, Muslims, and Christian Arabs who co-exist peacefully. The best thing to do in Haifa is to visit the Haifa Garden, also referred to as the Bahai Garden. The Haifa Garden which is big and beautifully bestows a magnificent radiance in the city. The Haifa Gardens are inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors are not allowed to pick flowers at the Haifa Garden, so you know!

26. Tel Dan Nature Reserve

In Hebrew, the word Tel means hill or mound. The Tel Dan was officially declared a Nature Reserve in 1974. Inside the nature reserve, there is a river called the Dan River which is the largest of the three rivers that flow deliciously into the Jordan River. The word Jordan actually means “came out of the Dan.”

The Tel Dan Nature reserve is no doubt a little piece of heaven on earth. Although it is a pretty small Israel tourist attraction and off the beaten track it still is a great place to visit. Not far from the Lebanon and Syria border the Tel Dan Nature Reserve is one of the best things to do in North Israel.

It has very impressive archeological digs. Parts of the 5000-year-old ancient city of Tel Dan have been reconstructed following years of excavation.

27. Mount Tabor And Church Of Transfiguration

The current day Church of the Transfiguration, built in 1924, is part of the Franciscan Church and is located at the top of Mount Tabor in Galilee. The mountain is 575 meters high. It is believed that this is where the Transfiguration of Jesus happened. The church has three chapels and one small alter; the alters are also referred to as tabernacles and represent the three tents which Peter wanted to build for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah.

The Transfiguration refers to the occurrence in the Bible when Jesus appears as a radiant Being to speak to Moses and Elijah. It’s during this time that Jesus is referred to as the son of God. 

Representing the same purpose is a Greek Orthodox church that is also located on Mount Tabor. Needless to say that this one of the amazing places to visit in Israel when you are a history lover.

Mount Tabor And Church Of Transfiguration is located 30 minutes East from Nazareth and therefore regarded as one of the best things to do in North Israel.

28. Skiing in Israel on Mount Hermon

Believe it or not but you can also go skiing in Israel. Don’t expect the best snow conditions, but you can be really lucky. In 2019 they saw 3 times as much snowfall than average! There are 8 lifts and the total length of pistes is 45 kilometers. I’m not saying skiing is among the best things to do in Israel, but it is a cool day activity. Within three hours you can be from the middle of the desert or the beach on top of Mount Hermon on your skis. The ski areas are located in North Israel.

29. Visit the Gaza Border

All the way in the South of Israel you can find the Gaza Strip and I bet you have heard of it. It is definitely one of the most unique places to visit in the world, which is seemingly impossible. Of course since the conflict in lately escalated again it is not recommend to visit the Gaza border at the moment. It is best to go to this unique place on a tour from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv with a reputable company. Check out my  blog post about my experiences visiting the Gaza Border  for more info.

30. Timna Park

Timna Park is found in the heart of Timna Valley which is located in the Southern part of Israel in the Negev Desert. Besides offering a historical and geological experience, Timna Park has a picturesque landscape which is great for activities like camping, hiking, walking, and biking for all ages. The park covers about 15,000 acres in a beautifully majestic desert setting.

A big part of the valley has ancient remnants of copper mining and traces of ancient worship. The copper mine was the first of it’s kind in the world with smelting furnaces dating back to ancient imperial Egypt. The copper was used to make items such as household tools, weapons, and ornaments.

Timna Park is only about 30 kilometers North of Eilat and therefor one of the best things to do in Eilat or when visiting South Israel.

The southern part of Israel is mostly covered by the Negev desert, which makes this part of the country great for the adventure traveler.

31. Red Canyon

Not far away from Timna Park another amazing thing to do in Eilat can be found: Red Canyon. Hiking through the narrow canyons and unique rock formations is a fairly new and not so touristy Israel tourist attraction close to the Egypt border. The first thing that came up in my miny when visiting the Red Canyon was that is reminded me a lot about Antelope Canyon in Arizona, USA.

When on an Israel road trip drive down Highway 12 towards Eilat along the Egypt border and it will be on your right hand side. You can also take a bus here from either Be’er Sheva or Eilat.

32. Ein Avdat National Park

Ein Avdat is a spring and nature reserve that is found in a canyon in the Negev Desert. The spring water comes from the rock layers on which salt-tolerant plants grow. The lush vegetation attracts different animal species such as insects, birds, and frogs.

The Ein Avdat, being a water source in the middle of the desert, attracts both people and animals in pursuit of drinking water. Thanks to its beauty, the place has become a popular tourist attraction in Israel and a favorite hiking spot amongst people who enjoy the views created by the dramatically steep canyon. Birds such as eagles use the cliffs as nesting spots.

The Ein Avdat National Park is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to the presence of a Byzantine Church which dates back to the 3rd century. Ein Avdat is among the best places to visit in Israel and the country’s most striking National Park according to many locals.

Ein Avdat is located about 1 hour south of Be’er Sheva in the South of Israel and therefore best to be visit on either a tour or when you are sightseeing Israel by car.

33. Scuba Dive In Eilat

Eilat is the southernmost and the only city in Israel that’s on the Red Sea and is a popular destination for a sunshine holiday. Visiting the beaches of the Red Sea is probably one of the best things to do in Eilat. Sprawled along a 7-kilometer coastline, Eilat has plenty of shops and resorts but scuba diving in Israel is worth giving it a try.

Eilat is filled with fun, sun, diving, kayaking, partying, dining, and desert-based activities. The main reason why this city is a favorite all-year-round escape for tourists is probably due to its climate-induced relaxed climate. But the Red Sea provide excellent scuba diving with relatively pristine coral reefs. Scuba diving equipment is available for hire on all the major beaches. About 250,000 dives happen here every year.

Israel travel blogs

In 2017 I traveled around Israel for 2 weeks, partied in Tel Aviv, went to Midburn festival , visited Jerusalem, swam in the Dead Sea, went off the beaten path in North Israel, explored the Negev Desert, crossed off some of the best things to do in Israel and partied again in Tel Aviv. Israel has always been a really surprising destination in many ways.

The country isn’t that big so moving around is quite easy; the roads are in excellent condition so you can move around safely and quickly. These last Israel travel tips will make your trip even better:

• avoid making any plans on the Sabbath as public transport services are not available then.
• make an effort to learn some Hebrew which is the official language here. Other commonly spoken languages here are Arabic and English.
• Change your money into the Israeli currency which is the Shekel. However, US dollars are accepted in some places.
• Try Israeli wine, it is not bad at all. 

All in all I wrote more than 10 Israel travel blogs . If you decide to travel to Israel then check out my complete list of Israel travel tips  in this link.

I have traveled thoroughly in the Middle East, see my  trip to Syria , my trip to Kurdistan, Iraq  or my trip to Iran . One by one I enjoyed them. The Middle East cuisine is delicious and I got to taste some of it through some of the best Tel Aviv food tours .

Israel is not a budget destination, but you can travel around without breaking the bank. If you still need some convincing I summed up 24 reasons to travel to Israel .

Got fueled by wanderlust by this article? Go check out my Instagram profile @traveltomtom where you will find my road to visit every country in the world . As of June 2023 I have been to more than 155 countries.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Adventure Traveler & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

I hope all the above tips for visiting Israel were helpful. May you have any recommendations then please leave me a comment below or reach out to me.

Enjoy your trip to Israel!

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The perfect israel itinerary – guide & interactive israel map.

If you’re visiting for only a few days, this Israel itinerary will allow you to see as much as possible in the time you have.

What to do in israel in 5 days – israel itinerary for travelers in a hurry.

From the lowest point on Earth in the middle of a vast desert to the lush peaks of the Carmel Mountains, from one of the most ancient cities in the world to a glittering seaside cosmopolitan hub… Israel takes it all and crams it into a tiny strip of land. I’ll tell you all of the best things to do in Israel during your time in this incredible country.

You can’t drive more than four hours in any direction from the airport without leaving the country, yet Israel offers enough to keep visitors’ itineraries jam-packed – whether you’re staying for five days or five weeks.

This five day Israel itinerary is enough to whet your appetite and leave you wanting more. To get a deeper sense of the country and explore more, I encourage you to consider a 10 day trip to Israel – this itinerary has all the details you need to plan your entire trip, and you can even use it as the foundation for a shorter trip by just picking the days you’re most excited about.

Israel Itinerary Map

Day 1: Exploring Tel Aviv – An Israel Must See

Shalom, and welcome to Israel! You’ll start your short visit to Israel in the bustling modern city of Tel Aviv, perched on miles of a gorgeous Mediterranean coastline. It’s a must on your any Israel Itinerary. Tel Aviv is a fascinatingly diverse city of neighborhoods and today you’ll get to explore a few of them.

If you want to know what to do in Israel to relax, Tel Aviv is a great choice. Start off recovering from your flight with a relaxing stroll south along the beachside promenade, the tayelet . You’ll take it all the way to Old Jaffa, which has origins as a port city dating back to the days of Jonah in the Bible!

Start off by wandering up to the lovely Gan HaPisga, one of the most incredible places to see in Tel Aviv, where you’ll enjoy the lovely flowers and great coastal views. Next spend some time exploring the narrow, winding alleys filled with art galleries and studios. You’ll finally make your way down to the port itself, which has recently been revitalized into industrial-style galleries and is one of Tel Aviv’s new hot spots.

For lunch in Jaffa you have two excellent options:

The Old Man and the Sea : If you want a hearty traditional dining experience, head to The Old Man and the Sea. Your meal will start with a course of salatim , small dishes of various types of salad that are typical of Israeli cuisine. Thanks to its location in the Jaffa Port, The Old Man and the Sea is known for excellent, fresh fish entrees – you can’t go wrong with those!

Abu Hassan: If you’re looking for a meal on a budget or you want a different kind of traditional experience, head to nearby Abu Hassan. There’s very little disagreement: Abu Hassan serves up the best hummus in Israel . My personal recommendation is to order the masabacha , a mix of hummus, tehina and whole chickpeas. It’s served warm with a basket of fluffy pita. You may not think of a bowl of hummus as an entire meal, but that’s how it’s treated by Tel Avivians in the know.

The afternoon is a great opportunity to head back north and see some of Tel Aviv’s oldest – and most unique – neighborhoods. To see some fantastic spots with the context of expert explanation, grab this self-guided audio tour . It covers the Levinsky Market – one of the most authentic markets you’ll see when you visit Israel – and the diverse Florentine, where you’ll see fantastic Tel Aviv street art. The fee you pay for the tour includes samples at some of the market’s best shops, so you’ll have plenty of delicious sustenance for your exploration!

Walk just a few more blocks to the lovely, refined neighborhood of Neve Tzedek. This was the first Jewish neighborhood outside of Jaffa, and now it’s home to cafes, art galleries, book stores and more.

When it’s time for sunset, be sure to head back to the coast and find a lovely perch to enjoy it. Mediterranean sunsets can’t be beaten!

For dinner, you’ll head back toward Jaffa but this time to the Flea Market district. At night it comes alive as a vibrant scene for restaurants and bars. Your destination is Onza, one of the city’s best restaurants. It offers a contemporary twist on traditional Turkish cuisine and is one of my personal favorites.

Highlights in Tel Aviv:

• Tayelet- Beach Promenade
• Gan HaPisga
• The Old Man and the Sea
• Levinsky Market
• Neve Tzedek
• Flea Market district

Day 2: Day trip in Coastal Israel

One of the prettiest areas of Israel is its lush northern coastline. The coast is one of the best places to visit in Israel. Today on your Israel itinerary you’ll spend the entire day exploring it! There are two ways you can manage the logistics, each with pros and cons. If you want the flexibility to move at your own pace or you’re traveling with a family, it might be worth renting a car (in downtown Tel Aviv, not at the airport). If you’re visiting solo or you’d rather have everything planned for you, you can hop on a guided day trip to take you up and down the coast.

Regardless of how you opt to handle the logistics, you’ll see beautiful, interesting places. On a longer itinerary, you’d probably want to spend the night in the north to see everything, but with just one day you may need to prioritize just a few of these spots to visit. Here are some of the best places to visit in Israel along the Carmel coast, from south to north:

Caesarea National Park

This ancient Roman settlement was established as a port for the newly-expanded empire around 25 BCE and used as such for over 1500 years. The city is still remarkably well-preserved and includes residential buildings, a commercial area, an amphitheater and a chariot racing arena. The site is very large, so plan to spend about two hours exploring. There are several on-site restaurants to grab a lovely lunch with a view.

Ba’hai Gardens

This is known as one of the most amazing things to see in Israel. The diverse coastal city of Haifa is home to the Ba’hai World Center and its famous gardens. If you have just a few minutes, stop at the top of the garden to sneak a peek from the top level (this is what the day trip options do). With more time, you can take a guided tour all the way down through the garden – just be sure to check the English time slots in advance as they’re limited. If you plan to enter the garden, be sure to wear modest clothing that covers you knees and shoulders.

The ancient city of Akko is a fascinating look at Israel’s layers of history. You can explore the old Ottoman city, the Crusader fort, underground tunnels and more. The traditional market is a fun place to wander and sample delicious traditional food.

Rosh Hanikra

We love the limestone cliffs and grottoes of Rosh Hanikra, right on the border with Lebanon. The world’s steepest cable car takes you from the top to the bottom, where you can wind through the caverns and explore the fascinating nooks and crannies. There’s also an interesting historical movie shown in one of the caves that explains the history of the railway that once ran right next to the grottoes and in to Lebanon.

For dinner nearby, try Michael Local Bistro – famous for its Israeli take on the farm-to-table movement.

At the end of the day, head back to Tel Aviv for the night. If you’ve rented a car, you can either keep it to do more self-guided exploration for days 4 and 5 or return it if you plan to use public transportation and/or guided tours for those days.

Day 3: Jerusalem’s Holy Sites and the Shuk

On day 3 of your Israel itinerary, you’ll visit the famous Holy Sites of Jerusalem. No matter your religious affiliation, visiting Jerusalem’s holy sites is one of the best things to do in Israel and an absolute must. Religion and history are all intertwined and it’s fascinating learning about both in this country, both of which are at the heart of many ancient and modern religions today.

One of the great things about traveling in Israel is just how close much of the country is. This morning you’ll leave early to go from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, which should take about an hour.

If you’ve already returned your rental car you can take either the bus or the newly-completed fast train. If you choose public transportation, you may need to take either a local bus or a taxi to your hotel to drop your bags depending on where you’re staying.

You’ll want to be done dropping your bags in time to arrive at Jaffa Gate for your 11 am tour of Jerusalem’s holy sites in the Old City. This excellent free tour lasts around 2 hours (but could go a bit longer) and visit all four quarters to give a brief introduction to the main sites of the Old City.

When your tour is done, grab lunch at Tala Hummus in the Old City (you’ll even get a discount from your tour guide). Even though it’s a restaurant frequented by tour groups, it’s quite good and hits the spot in a convenient location!

Due to the limited time available on the tour, you won’t go inside the Old City’s various holy sites. After lunch, you can opt to return to the Western Wall or the Church of the Holy Sepulchre if those are of special interest to you. If you choose to go to the Western Wall, you can even take a tour underneath to see various levels of excavation of the original Temple walls!

After you’ve had your fill of the Old City you’ll walk along the modern Jaffa Street to Jerusalem’s famous Machne Yehuda market (also called “the shuk ”). If you’re feeling tired or the heat is extreme, you can also hop aboard the light rail that runs through the middle of the street and stops right outside the market entrance.

Wander the market, take in the sights and smells, ask for samples. It’s an experience you can’t miss! Be sure to stop my favorite bakery, Marzipan, for some of their world-renowned ruggalah . It’s absolutely incredible, so make sure you buy a few extra to send my way.

After you’ve filled up at the market, you can enjoy more strolling time along Jaffa Street and its many off-shoots until it’s time for dinner. You’ll head back to the shuk , which transforms after dark into one of Jerusalem’s evening hot spots! Enjoy dinner at Machneyuda, often regarded as one of the country’s best and most creative restaurants – just be sure to make a reservation in advance (sometimes a month or more).

If you still have energy, head back to the Old City for one of the stunning “sound and light” shows put on by the Tower of David. They project images directly on to the city walls taking you on an amazing journey through history.

Day 4: Day Trip to the Dead Sea

Swimming in the Dead Sea is one of those can’t-miss once-in-a-lifetime experiences on any Israel itinerary, so we’ve gotta make it happen even with a short time in Israel! The good news is that you can be at the most beautiful part of the Dead Sea in just under two hours from Jerusalem.

The better news is that there are some absolutely fantastic places to visit along the way to make a complete day trip. You can either spend this day exploring on your own if you have a rental car or take a guided tour like this one .

I recommend eating breakfast before you leave Jerusalem and bringing a picnic lunch with you, as food options are slim (and generally not great).

Masada is one of the best outdoor attractions in Israel . Visit the mountain-top fortress where 1st-century Jews took refuge from Roman rule. If you arrive early enough in the day (in the summer, often before 8 AM) and you’re in very good shape, you can hike up the “snake path”. It takes 1-1.5 hours as you ascend 1300 feet.

The snake path is the only way to see the sunrise at Masada, which is very popular but requires you to leave from Jerusalem extremely early – potentially around 4 am in summer. Most people choose to ascend and descend via cable car, which you can do at any time of day.

Earth’s lowest point is the Dead Sea, the shrinking extremely salty sea in the middle of the desert. It’s called “Dead” because it’s so salty that nothing can survive. I recommend visiting the southern section near Ein Bokek. It doesn’t have the mud you’ll find in the northern section, but the water is prettier, the floating is better and the beach access is free.

The final stop of the day is one of the best places in Israel, Ein Gedi. This oasis in the desert provides some great easy hiking and lovely freshwater springs perfect for a swim after a hot day of exploring.

After your day in the desert, head back to Jerusalem for dinner and the evening. If it happens to be a Tuesday, this is a great time to head to The Israel Museum while it’s open later (more info on The Israel Museum for day 5 below). Otherwise head to the Jerusalem First Station ( HaTachana ), the old train station that has been converted into a wonderful public space that includes plenty of restaurants, boutiques, arcade games, fun events, and more.

Day 5: Discover Israel your way

On the final day of your Israel itinerary, choose your activities based on your own interests.

If Jewish and Israeli history is your main interest, this is a good day to split between The Israel Museum and Yad Vashem. The Israel Museum has a world-class collection that includes the Dead Sea Scrolls, thousands of years of archeological sites from the region, unique synagogue interiors from around the world and much more. There are also several restaurants on-site where you can grab a delicious lunch.

In the afternoon pay respects to victims of the Holocaust at Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center. There are numerous memorials on the site and you’ll want to take your time to go through them and also process what you’re seeing.

Christian pilgrims to the Holy Land should spend the final day visiting two important sites: Bethlehem and the Mount of Olives. A visit to Bethlehem , located in the West Bank, will take you to the Church of the Nativity, the Franciscan Grotto of Lady Mary and the Shepherd’s fields.

The walking tour will return you to Jerusalem, where you can grab a quick lunch. You’ll continue your spiritual journey in the afternoon with a guided visit to the Mount of Olives. The tour will include churches, the Mosque of Ascension, Mary’s Tomb, the Jewish cemetery, and iconic views of the Old City.

If you are interested in diving deeper into the Israeli-Arab conflict, sign up for the excellent Hebron dual-narrative tour offered by Abraham Tours. The tour includes both an Israeli guide and an Arab guide, each explaining their side’s view of the conflict as you explore the sites of Hebron that are holy to Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

Combining a Trip to Jordan and Israel

Many visitors coming to Israel choose to combine their trip and do a Jordan and Israel combination trip. Crossing from Israel to Jordan on land is fairly easy for most tourists. It might take some time, so be patient. There are three land border crossings between Jordan and Israel:

You may want to consider getting your Israel Passport Entry Stamp on a separate paper instead of on your passport. Having an Israel stamp won’t restrict your entrance to Jordan, it’s quite common, but it may impact your ability to enter other Muslim countries in the future, so it’s better safe than sorry, unless you know you won’t be visiting them.

Jordan Guide

If you decide to combine your Israel itinerary with a trip to Jordan, be sure to check out my Jordan Itinerary . It’s one of my favorite places in the middle east.

Want to Make your Trip Planning Easier?

If you want to make your trip to Israel and/or Jordan memorable, but want to skip the stress of planning, these guides are the perfect open-and-go solution. They provide day-by-day itineraries, interactive maps, tour and accommodation recommendations, and more insider tips!

I hope this Israel itinerary has given you a taste of what you’ll find in Israel! For even more details to plan your entire trip or to extend your visit longer, check out this detailed itinerary and more helpful resources like where to stay in Israel , what to pack and more !

This itinerary was written by Melissa from The Family Voyage , who is my Israel Expert!

Israel Itinerary FAQ

If you’re traveling to Israel, around seven days is usually enough, though it depends on your preference and interests. You could easily spend a week in Jerusalem alone or take a more leisurely approach and spend a couple of days in each of the main cities.

Yup, if you want a jam-packed adventure to Israel, might as well consider going on tours so you can cover more ground. With 7 days in Israel, you’ll be able to explore the country’s key cities and attractions, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and the Dead Sea.

Yes, depending on the itinerary you follow, it is possible to cover the main attractions within Israel in a 5-day period. However, if you want to experience as much of the country as possible, it’s best to give yourself a week or two.

It’s best to go here from April to October when the weather is mostly sunny and dry. December to March can be colder and wetter but, depending on your preference, this might still be a great time to visit as the country isn’t as crowded and you can experience Israel’s winter charm.

Wanderlust Crew

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Must-Visit Attractions in Israel

Israel offers a rare mix of delicious food, warm people and an endlessly diverse list of sites. So no matter if it’s the culture, faith or curiosity that caught your eye, here are the attractions you just must see once you’ve arrived. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Eager to explore the very best of the Holy Land? Join Culture Trip’s specially curated seven-day trip to Israel , which includes visits to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and the Dead Sea.

Tour ancient and new in the Old City of Acre

A rarely visited site, this amazing old city offers the best of the old and new worlds: great restaurants perched on seaside cliffs alongside all the fun of a classic Arab market.

This mountaintop fortress in the Israeli desert was the last stronghold for the members of a Jewish revolt against the Roman empire. Their fate was a bitter one – after a lengthy siege they took their own lives rather than surrender – but visiting the site is anything but bitter. Wake up extra early and go for a hike or take the tram and enjoy this amazing historical site. You can visit Masada on Culture Trip’s action-packed seven-day Israel tour, led by our Local Insider .

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Gaze at the Bahá’í Gardens

The Hanging Gardens of Haifa are an absolute beauty. Holy to the adherents of the not-widely known Bahá’í faith, the gardens are a temple to their god Bah. Come for the view or to learn about the faith – just don’t miss it.

Tour the Old City of Jerusalem

Winding streets and alleys; home to the holy sites of the three main monotheistic faiths – the Old City of Jerusalem is steeped in history. The area also has amazing food and countless secrets for those willing to brave its maze of shaded streets. Join a guided walking tour as part of our specially curated small-group Israel trip .

Discover the Western Wall in Jerusalem

The exterior wall of the long-destroyed Jewish Temple, the Western Wall (or Wailing Wall) is one of the most holy sites in Judaism, so holy that ultra-Orthodox Jews won’t even step beyond the wall to where the temple actually sat for fear of desecrating the land. An open plaza accommodates both women and men for prayer. Regardless of your faith, follow the local custom and put a note in the wall.

See the religious sites of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and Via Dolorosa

Follow in the steps of Jesus by walking the Via Dolorosa, or head to his final resting place in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The tomb itself has been renovated and is a popular site for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Admire the Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem

The Dome of the Rock, next to the Al-Aqsa Mosque within the Temple Mount complex, is one of the holiest sites in Islam. Though a flashpoint for tensions between Jews and Arabs, it is safe for tourists per a few caveats: don’t go on Friday, Israelis might be barred from entering and women are required to dress modestly, meaning long skirts extending below the knee and no cleavage or exposed shoulders.

Feast at Tel Aviv Port

Tel Aviv Port, recently revamped, is now an urban powerhouse of cafes and restaurants. It’s a great place to see the sea without having to pass through a beach, while the farmer’s market offers great local food in its produce and restaurants.

Enjoy the sea air at the Old Port of Jaffa

One of the oldest port cities in the world, Jaffa is one of the most vibrant spots in Israel. Head to the port for sea breezes and fresh fish.

Marvel at architecture in the White City of Tel Aviv

Home to an internationally acclaimed collection of International-style houses (sometimes called bauhaus) the so-called White City is actually part of the central Lev Ha’ir district in Tel Aviv. The homes are beautiful even for those usually not interested in architecture.

Explore Jaffa Flea Market

Trendy and stylish, Jaffa Flea Market is home to strange antique stores alongside new restaurants and cafes, a symbol of how Jaffa’s old meets Tel Aviv’s new to create something amazing.

Get lost in Mahane Yehuda (Jerusalem Markets)

The central market in Jerusalem is a bustling Middle Eastern bazaar offering the best local delicacies. Take a chance and get lost within the alleyways.

Join hipsters at the Big Synagogue in Tel Aviv

The epicentre of the hipster side of Tel Aviv , the Big Synagogue plaza on Allenby Street, is home to a bar, a restaurant and two places that fall somewhere in between. The Port Said and Santa Catarina are the places to eat contemporary Tel Avivi cuisine, while the Otzar is the place to get a drink if you’re young and trendy.

Relax on the Tel Aviv beaches

The multitude of beautiful beaches in Tel Aviv needs no introduction and remain some of the most famed and popular tourist attractions in Israel.

Dive among coral reefs near Eilat

In the southernmost tip of Israel sits the resort town of Eilat. Perched on the head of the Red Sea peninsula, its waters open to Egypt to the south and Jordan to the west. On good days, Saudi Arabia is visible between them and across the water. Eilat has great coral reefs, a few dolphins and even a bird festival, so go south and enjoy the sun. Discover the natural wonders of the Arava Desert

Discover the natural wonders of the Arava Desert

This tall stone towers and dry landscape in this desert, reminiscent of Nevada’s, offer something ethereal. Check out the amazing cabins at Bamidbara to spend the night.

Get fresh skin in the Dead Sea

The lowest place on earth, the Dead Sea is said to have healing powers while its mud is said to help reinvigorate your skin. So take a splash in the murky, mineral-rich waters and dip yourself into some high-grade mud (mud-faced selfies are mandatory).

Chill out by the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret)

Called the Sea of Galilee by Israelis, Lake Kinneret is the site where Jesus is said to have walked on water. It’s also the main reservoir in Israel and a favourite attraction for locals, who can regularly be found basking along its beaches.

Cool down in the Golan Heights

The Golan Heights, on the northernmost tip of the country, offers respite from the Israeli heat. There is a ski site and a cafe called Cafe Anan – a play on the name of former UN chief Kofi Annan and the Hebrew word for cloud ( anan ).

Uncover Roman ruins in Caesarea

Caesarea is arguably the most affluent community in Israel, but the adjacent national park offers some of the most exciting ruins in the country. Built by Herod the Great around 25BCE, the Caesarea Maritima port city includes the ruins of a hippodrome, a Roman theatre, an impressive collection of Crusader-era fortifications, a temple and an impressive aqueduct. It also offers an amazing view of the old harbour, which was once the largest on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean.

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35 Amazing Tourist Attractions in Israel To Visit

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There are many tourist attractions in Israel that are worth visiting. Tourist attractions in Israel range from historical and cultural attractions to beach tourism and dark tourism . Israel is a fascinating place to visit, and by the time you have finished reading this article you will understand why! Are you ready to learn more about the tourist attractions in Israel? Read on…

The best tourist attractions in Israel by destination

Where is the old city, getting to jerusalem old city, the christian quarter, the jewish quarter, the muslim quarter, the armenian quarter, what is the mount of olives, getting to the mount of olives, things to see at the mount of olives, other things to see at the mount of olives, where to stay in jerusalem old city, a brief background on jerusalem’s old city, the kotel (western wall), the kotel tunnels, the dome of the rock, church of the holy sepulchre, tower of david museum, the terra sancta museum, old city market (souq), the temple institute, getting to haifa, museums in haifa, nature in haifa, other things to see and do in haifa, where to eat in haifa, where to stay in haifa, how to get to masada, things to do in masada, summer opening times, winter opening times, fridays and holiday-eve opening times, entrance with cable car (two ways), entrance with cable car (one way), entrance to eastern side/snake path, where to stay when visiting masada, getting to bethlehem, things to see in bethlehem, biblical sites, other places to see in bethlehem, where to eat and drink in bethlehem, where to stay in bethlehem, getting to eilat, israel, eilat beach, eilat, israel weather, where to stay in eilat, israel, why should you visit mitzpe ramon, getting to mitzpe ramon, weather in mitzpe ramon, where to stay in mitzpe ramon, what is the ramon crater, what to do at the ramon crater, where is mount tabor, how to get to mount tabor, things to do at mount tabor, kfar tavor and nearby, where is the sea of galilee, other names of the sea of galilee, getting to the sea of galilee, beaches at the sea of galilee, things to do at the sea of galilee, where to stay at the sea of galilee, tourist attractions in israel- to conclude.

There are many tourist attractions in Israel that are located in various parts of the country. During our trip we hired a car so that we were able to visit almost all of them, which is something I definitely recommend doing if you want to visit lots of the tourist attractions in Israel.

So, which are the best tourist attractions in Israel and why? Read on to find out…

Many of the best tourist attractions in Israel are found in Jerusalem and the Old City of Jerusalem is high on everyone’s list when visiting Israel. It was certainly one of the highlights for our tour! If you’re planning a trip to the area and want to make the most out of your time in Jerusalem, here’s everything you need to know about the tourist attractions in Israel…

Nestled within the modern city of Jerusalem, the Old City is a walled area of 0.9 km2 or 0.35 square miles. It is roughly divided into four quarters: the Muslim Quarter, the Christian Quarter, the Armenian Quarter and the Jewish Quarter, all of which are home to various tourist attractions in Israel.

You can stay in the Old City, or simply visit it on a day trip from the newer part of Jersualem, which is what we did. Public transport is pretty good, meaning that it is easier to stay in a cheaper part of the city and travel in to visit the main sites here, which helps with your Israel travel budget ! It is also accessible from Tel Aviv.

The nearest airport to Jerusalem Old City is Ben Gurion Airport (TLV). Located in Tel Aviv, it is 55km from the centre of Jerusalem. Flights are easily available from many major cities worldwide, such as Paris, London, New York City, Frankfurt and more.

It takes just under an hour to drive from Ben Gurion airport to Jerusalem Old City. We hired a car through Eurocar , collected it at the airport and off we went to Jerusalem.

Public transport is also on hand to get your from the airport to the Old City and other areas of Jerusalem. Shuttle bus 485 departs from gate 23 on the second floor of Terminal 3 – it costs 16 ILS per person each way. The shuttle bus runs every hour, on the hour apart from during Shabbat. There are 6 stops within the city, including the edge of Jerusalem Old City.

Tourist Attractions in Jerusalem Old City

Just walking around the old city itself is breathtaking enough. The walls, the market stalls, the incredible architecture – there’s so much to see and take in. But in case you’re looking for more structure, here’s some definite must-see tourist attractions in Israel based in the Jerusalem Old City.

• David Street: one of the old city’s main market streets
• The Church of St. John the Baptist: 11th century church with a dome
• The Museum of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate
• Hezekiah’s Pool: an ancient reservoir
• Church of the Holy Sepulchre: 4th century church that is said to be home to the site where Jesus of Nazareth was crucified, and also his empty tomb
• The Broad Wall: an ancient defensive wall (8th century)
• The Burnt House Museum: a museum dedicated to an excavated house six metres below ground level, which is said to have been burnt by Romans
• Sidna Omar Mosque: a fascinating abandoned mosque
• New Church of Theotokos: a 6th century Byzantine church which is mostly destroyed
• The Southern Wall: a wall built during King Herod’s expansion of the Temple Mount platform, now one of the last remaining walls of the Jerusalem Old City
• The Ramban Synagogue: the second oldest active synagogue within the old city
• Hurva Synagogue: rebuilt in 2009
• Karaite Synagogue: the oldest synagogue in the Jerusalem Old City

• The Old City Three Markets: a butchers’ market, perfume market and goldsmiths’ market on Olive Press Street
• The Dome of the Rock: Islam’s third holiest site, and the iconic building with the gold dome that is synonymous with the Jerusalem Old City
• Al-Aqsa Mosque: the second oldest mosque in the world and where Muslims worship the they come to the mount
• The Western Wall: also known as the Wailing Wall, an ancient wall that is sacred to Muslims – there are underground tunnels here too
• The Temple Mount: the mount itself is home to the Dome of the Rock, the Western Wall and the Al-Aqsa Mosque
• The Church of St. Anne: church with medieval architecture and near-perfect acoustics

Tip: Make sure you dress appropriately when visiting sites of religious significance or they might not let you in! I’ve written in this post about recommended clothes when visiting religious sites . I’ve been caught out many times on my travels so it’s worth making sure you are wardrobe ready for your trip to Jerusalem!

• The Cathedral of St. James: a 12th century cathedral
• St. Toros Church: a church built in memory of the son of the Armenian King of Cilicia in the 1200s, renovated in 1727
• Helen and Edward Mardigian Museum: a museum dedicated to Armenian art and culture
• The Tower of David: an ancient citadel with a museum
• The Armenian Garden: a walled park

The four quarters of the Jerusalem Old City all offer something different, but all are wonderful to explore. You can learn so much, I know I certainly did! The colours, the locals and the biblical sites are all something that will stick in your mind when you get home.

The Jerusalem Old City is also within easy reach of the Mount of Olives. Other things to see in the old city are the Jerusalem Archaeological Park and the New Temple Institute Visitor’s Centre. You can book tours that take you around the old city, I personally love Viator for their range of tours whether you’re already staying in Jerusalem or coming from further afield such as Tel Aviv .

Mount of Olives

The Mount Oof Olives is one of the best tourist attractions in Israel. Lets find out why…

As the name suggests, it’s a mountain ridge named for the olive groves that once absolutely covered it. The Mount of Olives has been used as a Jewish cemetery for over 3,000 years. There are approximately 150,000 graves! 

The southern part of the mount was the Silwan necropolis – the most important ancient cemetery in Israel. A lot of the tombs were destroyed through quarrying and conversation into housing for monks and Muslim villagers, but many can still be seen by visitors today.

The Mount of Olives has a lot of biblical significance, making it one of the most important tourist attractions in Israel. It is mentioned in the Old Testament, in connection with David and his flight from Absalom, as well as in relation to Yahweh the Israeli god who was to stand on the Mount of Olives and split it in two. It is also referenced in the New Testament as the place where Jesus stood as he wept over Jerusalem. He is said to have spent time on the mount with his disciples. The Garden of Gethsemane is at the bottom of the mount, and it is said that the Mount of Olives is where Jesus ascended to heaven.

The Mount of Olives is located just outside of the old city of Jerusalem. You can walk from the old city to the mount, or get a bus. If you choose to walk, set off from St Stephen’s Gate (also known as Lion’s Gate) – it is a 1.3 mile walk from here, which should take approximately half an hour.

Buses are available from Sultan Sullivan Terminal. The terminal itself is around a 14 minute walk (0.6 miles) from the old city, and the bus ride then takes approximately 15 minutes, stopping 13 times along the way. The bus you want to take is the 275, and you’ll want to alight at the Chapel of the Ascension. From there it’s a 2 minute walk to the Mount of Olives.

You can, of course, get a taxi. Ask around for the best taxi firm to use when you’re there – it can sometimes be difficult to find drivers who will take you there, or will be happy to use the meter, so it helps to ask the advice of a friendly local.

If you’re not much of a DIY traveller, book a tour like one of these . There are various tours that incorporate the Mount of Olives, leaving from the old city of Jerusalem and covering all of the major sacred and religious sites. These tours are ideal if you want to make sure you don’t miss anything out, and if you’re worried about getting lost and doing it all alone.

The mount is somewhat of a pilgrimage for Christians, due to the sheer amount of biblical locations there, which is why this is one of the most important tourist attractions in Israel. There are over half a dozen churches! You can visit them all, especially on guided tours, and there’s plenty more to see too…

The Church of Mary Magdalene is a Russian Orthodox church and is one of the most fascinating tourist attractions in Israel. It has seven gold domes and was built in 1888 to honour the Russian czar’s mother. There are some stunning mosaics inside.

The Chapel of the Ascension, sometimes known as the Dome of Ascension, marks the highest point in Jerusalem. It is a small, standalone dome. Built in 392AD, this exact spot is where Jesus is said to have ascended to heaven – hence the name! Inside is a stone with a footprint, said to be that of Jesus himself. The chapel was detroyed, rebuilt, purchased by Saladin, made into a mosque and now belongs to the Islamic Waqf of Jerusalem. It draws a lot of visitors.

There is also the Church of the Ascension, another Russian Orthodox church and another one of the most interesting tourist attractions in Israel. This is also said to have been the spot where Jesus ascended to heaven – different derivatives of the faith tell the story slightly differently. This church is also said to be where the head of John the Baptist was found!

The most vibrant place on the mount is the Church of All Nations. Also known as the Basilica of the Agony, it is adorned with a stunning gold mosaic. It was funded by 12 nations, each of which is honoured inside by a mosaic in the ceiling. This church is adjacent to the Garden of Gethsamane, and is apparently where Jesus prayed for the last time before ascending to heaven.

Augusta Victoria Lutheran Hospital, Church and Tower has stood since 1910, with the hospital itself being established in 1950. It was the first building in Jerusalem to have electricity. The hospital now helps Palestinian refugees.

Dominus Flevit, or ‘The Lord Wept’ is a church constructed in 1955. It’s in the shape of a tear drop, in memory of Jesus weeping when he foresaw Jerusalem being destroyed.

The Church of the Lord’s Prayer (Pater Noster) is a convent and church and another of the most interesting tourist attractions in Israel. The church that stands there now was built in 1874 – other churches have stood there before, but they were destroyed. The site is where Jesus is said to have taught the Lord’s Prayer to his disciples. 

There are other tourist attractions in Israel based here too. The Garden of Gethsemane, as mentioned, is located at the bottom of the mount. It’s an urban garden that visitors can walk around. According to the New Testament, this is where Judas betrayed Jesus on his final night. It has long since been a focal point for Christian pilgrimages. There are ancient olive trees growing in the garden.

The Tomb of the Virgin Mary is located in the Kidron Valley, at the foot of the mount. She died a natural death, and is said to have been buried here. Apparently, her body was resurrected on the third day after her soul was received by Christ. The tomb is on the eastern side of the Church of the Sepulchre of Saint Mary.

As mentioned, the Old Jewish Cemetery takes up a lot of the Mount of Olives. It is the oldest continually used Jewish cemetery in the world with graves belonging to all sorts of people. This is certainly one of the most remarkable tourist attractions in Israel.

When thinking about the best tourist attractions in Israel, you will want to organise how you visit these based on available accommodation. We based ourselves on the outskirts of Jerusalem in an Airbnb for our trip, because we thought that made a good base for exploring the rest of the country. I was, however, secretly envious of the people that we met who were staying in the Jerusalem Old City. Here are some of the recommendations of accommodation options in the Jerusalem Old City that we were given.

The Sephardic House Hotel is located in the Jewish Quarter the old city. With a 24h front desk, free WiFi, air-conditioning and a shared lounge/games room, the hotel is perfect for modern travellers. There is an airport shuttle service available too! The stunning 19th century building gives the hotel a real sense of authenticity and tradition, and reviews cite the location and breakfast as being absolutely spot on.

Legatia is an older building that has been converted into apartments. Family rooms are available and the accommodation has free WiFi. Close to a variety of amenities such as restaurants and shops, the building also has a terrace for guests to sit back and relax. Again, this accommodation is in the Jewish Quarter. It offers a perfect clash between modern and traditional decor, too.

For a spot of luxury, this apartment – known as a ‘modern pearl in historic setting’ is lovely. With an exceptionally clean and modern look as well as free WiFi, a fully functioning kitchen (meaning the freedom to eat whenever you want) and plenty of seating area, the apartment has it all. It also sleeps six! This means it’s the perfect option for group travellers, or larger families.

If it’s views you’re after, consider the Hashimi Hotel. It’s rooftop terrace offers stunning views across Jerusalem Old City at any time of day, and the interior decor is beautiful too. The hotel has free WiFi and parking reservations can be arranged; there are family rooms, a designated smoking area and a 24h front desk.

These are all great bases to explore the tourist attractions in Israel.

When visiting the tourist attractions in Israel, it is important to understand the background history of the area that you are visiting. Jerusalem’s Old City is a walled area located within the modern city of Jerusalem. It is considered to be one of the most important heritage sites in the world and is home to some of the holiest tourist attractions in Israel in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The Old City is located on a plateau in the Judaean Mountains and is divided into four quarters: the Jewish Quarter, the Muslim Quarter, the Christian Quarter, and the Armenian Quarter- all home to tourist attractions in Israel.

The Old City has been a focal point of conflict throughout its history. It has been besieged numerous times, most notably by the Assyrians in 732 BC, the Babylonians in 586 BC, the Romans in 70 AD, the Crusaders in 1099 AD, the Mamluks in 1267 AD, and the Ottomans in 1517 AD. Many of these conquests have left their mark on the city, with architecture and monuments from each era still standing today.

In 1967, the Old City was captured by the Israeli Defense Force during the Six-Day War, and it has been under Israeli control ever since. In 1981, it was officially annexed by the Israeli government and declared a part of the unified Jerusalem.

Today, Jerusalem’s Old City is a vibrant and bustling area, with a population of approximately 40,000. Visitors to the Old City can explore the winding alleys and historic tourist attractions in Israel of this ancient city, including the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Dome of the Rock, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The Old City is also home to many of Jerusalem’s most popular markets, such as the Shuk, where visitors can find everything from fragrant spices to traditional souvenirs.

The Old City of Jerusalem is truly a unique and special place, and it is no wonder that it has been a source of fascination and conflict for centuries. It is a place of great spiritual significance for millions of people, and a place full of history and culture. Jerusalem’s Old City is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the history of the region and visiting the many tourist attractions in Israel located here.

The Best Things To Do in Jerusalem’s Old City

Many of the best tourist attractions in Israel are found here. Jerusalem is a city of faith. It’s a place that harbours the holy sites of 3 major religions, and where people from all over the world travel to pay homage.

Visiting Jerusalem’s Old City is a truly unique experience. You can find yourself surrounded by thousands of people from around the world who have come together to pray, or simply admire the architecture and iconic sights.

All you need is your Israel online visa , and you’re ready to head to one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the world.

One of the best tourist attractions in Israel is the Kotel (Western Wall). The Western Wall is one of the holiest places in all of Judaism, and it’s a place where many people come to pray, meditate, and connect with their faith.

The Kotel is also called the Wailing Wall because Jews would come here to mourn after Jerusalem was destroyed by Rome in 70 CE. A common practice among visitors is to write a wish on a piece of paper and push it through the cracks of the wall.

The Kotel Tunnels are a place of quiet contemplation and reflection. The tunnels were created to allow access to the Western Wall, or Kotel, which is located underneath Jerusalem’s Old City.

Today, visitors can walk through the tunnels and experience what it was like for pilgrims to make their way from the Temple Mount to visit the Western Wall. Walking through these tunnels is one of the most powerful ways to connect with Jerusalem’s history and culture, making this one of the most important tourist attractions in Israel.

The Dome of the Rock is one of the most iconic religious sites in the world, making this one of the most famous tourist attractions in Israel. The site has been an important place of worship since it was built in 691 CE.

The Dome of the Rock is a beautiful building with breathtaking architecture and design. It is considered to be one of the holiest sites for Muslims because it houses what they believe to be the rock where Muhammad ascended to heaven.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is a major Christian pilgrimage site, as it is where Jesus Christ is said to have been crucified and buried, therefore this is one of the most religious tourist attractions in Israel.

The church itself is considered holy because it contains relics from Christ’s crucifixion: a piece of his cross, a piece of his ribboned robe, and what are believed to be his tomb and burial shroud. This is one of the most important tourist attractions in Israel for history.

Visiting the Tower of David Museum in Jerusalem’s Old City is a great way to learn about the history of Jerusalem. The museum is located in the heart of Jerusalem’s Old City and offers an incredible journey back in time.

This museum is full of artefacts from the Second Temple period and beyond. These include ancient coins, pottery, stone weights, and more. You’ll also see many weapons used during times of war. This is certainly one of the most interesting tourist attractions in Israel.

Another one of the most popular tourist attractions in Israel, the Terra Sancta Museum in Jerusalem’s Old City is a must-see for anyone who loves history, religion, or art.

You’ll find exhibits that explore the history of Jerusalem, including exhibits on its past inhabitants, including the Canaanites and Romans. You’ll also find an exhibit on Jesus’ life and death, as well as an exhibit on other religions that lived in Jerusalem at different points in history.

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, we recommend a trip to the Old City Market (souq). It’s a huge space with tons of shops and stalls, but what sets it apart is how much history it has—and how much of that history is still visible.

You’ll see merchants selling everything from spices to fruits and vegetables, as well as souvenirs like jewelry or handcrafted artwork. If you like shopping, this will be one of your favourite tourist attractions in Israel.

If you’re in Jerusalem, the Cardo is one of the must-see tourist attractions in Israel. The Cardo is an ancient Roman road that used to connect the Temple with the Forum. It’s now a pedestrian walkway that runs through the Old City and has been converted into a museum of sorts.

You can see some excavation work done on the site, learn about its history, and even hear some stories about it from archaeologists who worked on it.

The Temple Institute is a place of worship, study, and research in Jerusalem’s Old City that seeks to prepare the world for the coming of the Third Temple.

The institute offers classes on subjects like biblical history, Jewish law, and Hebrew language. They also hold regular events such as concerts and lectures from rabbis who support their mission, making this one of the more popular tourist attractions in Israel.

Lets take a look at some other tourist attractions in Israel located outside of Jerusalem.

Haifa is the third-largest city in Israel. Whilst many tourists have never heard of it, Haifa was a prominent part of our Israel travel itinerary as it is home to some of the great tourist attractions in Israel. A port city in the north, it has plenty to offer to visitors and I would absolutely recommend visiting if you get the chance.

To visit Haifa, the best airport to fly to is Ben Gurion (TLV). This is Israel’s main international airport located in Tel Aviv. Its Hebrew acronym is Natbag, which is how the airport is sometimes referred to. You can fly to Ben Gurion from many major cities across the globe: London, Paris, New York and more.

Upon landing in Ben Gurion, Haifa is a 1.5 hour (120km) drive away. There are official taxi stands outside the terminal. You can choose from a private taxi, or for a cheaper option go for a shared taxi which is more like a minivan. 

Haifa is also a cruise port. You may visit Haifa as part of a Mediterranean cruise . Companies such as Viking, Seabourn, Royal Caribbean and more. A lot of cruisers tend to take an organised excursion to Jerusalem or Bethlehem, but Haifa itself has so much to offer if you want to stick around.

Things to do in Haifa

There is a huge variety of things to do in Haifa and many tourist attractions in Israel can be found here. No matter what your age, interests or abilities, you are bound to find something that suits you. So, what can you do in Haifa?

Museums make for some great tourist attractions in Israel. Here are the best in Haifa…

The National Maritime Museum is a popular choice for families. It tells the story of the people who travelled to Israel from Europe via boat, and also the beginnings of the Israeli Navy. The museum is really engaging and has air conditioning!

The Railway Museum is located at the Haifa East railroad station. Perfect for train lovers, it traces the history of Israeli rail travel going back to 1892.

Hermann Struck was a prominent 20th century artist, and his home in Israel has been turned into the Hermann Struck Museum. Alongside his and other print artists’ artwork, visitors can see some of Struck’s furniture, books and trinkets.

The Baha’i Gardens were the main reason that we chose to visit Haifa- they are iconic and one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Israel. There are 19 terraces and a gold-domed shrine in the centre, Shrine of the Bab, which contains the tomb of Siyyad Ali Muhammed. With birds singing, a stunning sea view and beautiful flowers, it’s a must-visit. You can go with a guide to see even more of the park.

Dado Beach is clean and spacious, as well as being the longest beach in Haifa. There is a public gym, lifeguards for safety and even a salt water ‘pool’ for children to swim in.

The Sculptures Garden, Gan Hapsalim, is a bit of a hidden treat. It has plenty of parking space, if you have hired a car, and is perfect for an urban hike. With plenty of sculptures and a view over Haifa, it provides a bit of quiet in such a bustling city.

There is so much to do in the city and a few mote tourist attractions in Israel that are worthy of a mention. Visit the German Colony, see the Sammy Ofer Stadium, check out the cave of Elijah or walk down Yefe Nof Street to soak in the incredible views. You can visit the  Stella Maris Lighthouse and the Carmelite Monastery, or take a trip to Haifa Zoo!

After a busy morning of visiting the tourist attractions in Israel, you will surely want to food! Ha Sandwichim shel Bracha (Bracha’s Sandwiches) is, as the name suggests, a sandwich shop. One of the cheapest places to eat in Haifa, they’re labelled as the best sandwiches in Haifa! The perfect lunch option in the city. Previous visitors suggest letting Bracha decide what you have on your sandwich, which is prepared freshly in front of you!

Hanamal 24 is a gourmet restaurant offering Mediterranean and European food. With a ‘room for two’ offer if you want a romantic meal and a hugely varied menu, it’s easy to see why so many people recommend this place if you’re looking for somewhere special.

Sangria Tapas Bar is the place to go if you’re after seafood in Haifa. With proper Spanish sangria and a huge choice on the menu, as well as a cosy atmosphere, everybody seems to love this restaurant.

Whilst we didn’t stay overnight in Haifa as we opted to do a day tour, staying for more than one day would give you more time to truly experience and appreciate this city. Below are my recommendations for some of the best places to stay in Haifa.

The Haifa Bay View Hotel is only a 2 minute walk from the Baha’i Gardens. With bright and modern decor, sea views, WiFi, parking and great disabled access, this is a great choice. There is also a kosher Chinese restaurant at this hotel!

The Bay Club is an Atlas Boutique hotel. For something a bit more luxurious, this hotel has a stunning terrace and greenery as well as beautifully decorated rooms. Pets are welcome here, there is free WiFi and family rooms are available.

The 1926 Designed ApartHotel is a colourful choice. Excellently located a 5 minute walk from the port and only 550 yards away from the train station, this is the perfect choice no matter how you’re getting to the city. It’s also surrounded by cafés and pubs so if you’re into socialising, this is the hotel for you.

Port Inn is again 5 minutes walk from the port, and you can choose between dormitory rooms, private rooms and apartments depending on what you want. With a sun terrace, garden, air-conditioning, free WiFi and private parking, this is a great choice if you’re looking somewhere fairly affordable to stay in Haifa.

And on to the next destination with plenty of tourist attractions in Israel. Masada, in the Southern District of Israel, is an ancient fortification on top of an isolated rock plateau. On the eastern edge of the Judaean Desert, it’s a popular place to see when visiting Israel as it is home to some of the magnificent tourist attractions in Israel.

We visited during our tour through Israel. It was actually one of the highlights of our trip, although we were very under prepared (we often to hike, in 35 degree heat, in flip flops…). I wish that we had done a little more research prior to visiting Masada so to help others I will share what I learnt…

Masada is the perfect day trip and there are organised tours from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv . You can also drive to Masada if you have rented a car , like we did.

It takes approximately 1.5 hours to drive from Jerusalem to Masada, and just over two hours to get there from Tel Aviv. You can also get the bus if you are travelling on more of a budget. From Jerusalem, catch the 486 bus. It runs 5 times per day, stopping at the Masada Junction a short walk from the entrance to Masada National Park. From Tel Aviv, there is one bus per day (number 421).

One of the main things to do in Masada is hiking and the trails here are some of the great nature-based tourist attractions in Israel. There are two hiking trails available, depending on your fitness levels and preferences. You can take a short walk along the Ramp Trail from the western side of the mountain, or a longer hike up Snake Path.

If walking isn’t for you, or if you are travelling in the height of summer like we did, there is a cable car that takes you to the summit. It leaves every 10 minutes from the visitor’s centre. Whatever way you get there, you’re guaranteed fantastic views!

As well as being the departure point for the cable car, the visitor’s centre also has a museum. Masada is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the museum tells its story. There are excavated artefacts and plenty of information about the history of Masada.

Set across three levels, you can see Herod’s Northern Palace at the northern tip of the plateau. With a staircase, terraces, baths and more, it’s absolutely fascinating to behold, making this one of the most impressive tourist attractions in Israel.

Plenty of other ancient architecture can be seen, all impressive tourist attractions in Israel. There is a synagogue at Masada, one of the oldest in the world – as well as a bath house, a Byzantine church, and the western palace which was actually Herod’s official residence. Wander around these incredible buildings and their reminds, and you’ll be completely awestruck.

There is a light show too. Twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays) during the summer months between March and October, visitors flock to the Masada amphitheater. This can only be reached on the road from Arad. The light and sound show tells the history of Masada and if light shows are your thing then this just might be one of your favourite tourist attractions in Israel.

The best time to visit Masada

Israel is a hot country. However, the winter months do see lower temperatures at times. In January the temperature in Masada can get as low as 10°C with highs of 21°C – but in July and August, it goes up to around 40°C. If you can handle the heat you’ll be able to visit and hike Masada at any time of year, but it is something to bear in mind!

In terms of what time of day to visit Masada, sunrise is recommended. Not only is it not yet the hottest point of the day, it is also absolutely beautiful to see the sun rise above the desert. Tours are often arranged to arrive in time to see this.

If you are wanting to hike, you definitely need to get there early. The Snake Path is one of the most iconic hikes in Israel. At 400m long, it takes between one hour and ninety minutes to climb. The path opens around one hour before sunrise but on hot days, it will be closed by 9am for visitors’ safety.

To visit the museum and the rest of the national park, the opening times are as follows:

April to September: 8am-5pm

October to March: 8am-4pm

Summer: 8am-4pm

Winter: 8am-3pm

Masada: practical information

To enter the Masada National Park, there is an entrance fee. The tariff is as follows:

• Adult: NIS 77
• Child: NIS 45
• Israeli senior citizen: NIS 62
• Adult: NIS 59
• Child: NIS 31
• Israeli senior citizen: NIS 30
• Adult: NIS 31
• Child: NIS 17
• Israeli senior citizen: NIS 16

The entry fees for the light show are as follows:

• Adult: NIS 41
• Child: NIS 34

For groups of over 30 people, adult tickets are NIS 37 and child tickets are NIS 28. The light show starts at 9pm between March and August, with shows in September and October starting at 8pm. You are advised to arrive 30 minutes beforehand.

If you are taking a day trip from Jerusalem, Tel Aviv or elsewhere then you likely have your accommodation sorted. However, you may be looking to spend the night closer to Masada. There are a few options available depending on what you are looking for:

Or Gani is a guest house with WiFi, free private parking, air condition and private bathrooms. Reviews cite the host as being kind and caring with excellent breakfast-making skills! With Masada around 9 miles away, it’s one of the closest authentic-style accommodations to the national park.

Dead Sea Yehuda Apartments are self-catering, and located around 10 miles from Masada. With free parking and free WiFi as well as your own kitchen and bathroom, the accommodation has everything you need.

For a hotel, check out the Daniel Dead Sea Hotel around 8.5 miles from Masada. Free WiFi, free parking, a pool & spa as well as sea views and a kid’s club make it perfect for everyone. The beach is nearby, too!

If you’re looking for luxury, Spa Club Dead Sea Hotel is the place for you. Again, it’s around 8.5 miles away from Masada and parking is available. The hotel ticks a lot of boxes in terms of accessibility, and offers an extensive list of spa treatments.

Bethlehem, a Palestinian West Bank town south of Jerusalem, is an important destination for a lot of pilgrims and travellers and home to several important tourist attractions in Israel.

At 66km away, Ben Gurion (TLV) is the closest airport to Bethlehem. Direct international flights reach this airport from a wide number of major cities worldwide: NYC, London, Paris and many more.

It is approximately a one hour drive to Bethlehem from Ben Gurion Airport. You can hire a car at the airport! Drive via Route 1. You might want to leave the car when you get close though and take the bus.

Bethlehem is still a contested territory and there remains to be uneasiness between Israel and Palestine . I experienced it during my trip when I saw several fights and was advised by the locals not to stay out after dark! So I wouldn’t take any risks when travelling in this region. We took the touristy bus, which I thought was the safest option.

If you do choose to reach Bethlehem via public transport, there are four different buses you will need to take, and here is the route:

• From Terminal 3 at the airport, take the x5 towards קרית שדה התעופה_קרית שדה תעופה
• After approximately 20 minutes, get off at the El-Al Junction
• From here, take the 947 towards ירושלים_התחנה המרכזית
• After around half an hour, you will reach Jerusalem Central Bus Station
• From here, take the 75 towards Homat Schumel
• After a 15 minute journey, alight at HaBankim Junction/Hevron Road
• From here, take the 231 towards גוש עציון_באב אל-זקאק
• Get off 20 minutes later at Bab El-Zakak/Beit Jala Road
• From here it is around 11 minutes to the centre of Bethlehem on foot

Taxis are not authorised to enter Bethlehem when coming from Ben Gurion. You can get a taxi to Jerusalem, and then another on to Bethlehem.

Bethlehem is heralded as the birthplace of Jesus and home to some of the best tourist attractions in Israel. It is, therefore, a place of religious significance – and those who practise or are interested in the Christian religion will have a lot to see when visiting the town. Having said that, a day in Bethlehem is enough time to see the tourist attractions in Israel that are located here.

Several of the tourist attractions in Israel are biblical sites. The Church of the Nativity (well, a grotto within it) is said to be the exact spot where Jesus was born. You will likely have to queue, but this is pretty much THE place to visit in terms of Christian pilgrimage. It is beautiful as well as significant, and has terraced gardens, original mosaic flooring and various convents to explore.

The Chapel of the Milk Grotto is a Catholic chapel. It takes its name from the story that sees the holy family (Mary, Joseph and Jesus) hiding in the chapel during the Massacre of the Innocents. As the tale goes, a drop of milk fell from Mary onto the floor of the cave and turned it white.

If you like scenery, Shepherd’s Field is the one. This stunning site is also, according to the gospel of Luke, the place where the angel announced the birth of Jesus. With soft, sloping hills and lush green land, it really is beautiful. It is one of the most impressive tourist attractions in Israel.

TIP: if you’re not looking to stay in Bethlehem itself, you can take a day trip from Jerusalem.

Solomon’s Pools are three ancient pools located just southwest of Bethlehem. Once part of an ancient water system, it is one of the oldest sites tourists can visit in the area. Legend says that King Solomon actually built the pools for his wives to bathe in! If history is your thing this will be one of your favourite tourist attractions in Israel.

Rachel’s Tomb is important to the Jewish faith. It is draped in a velvet cloth and surrounded by eleven stones to represent eleven of her sons – there is no stone to represent Benjamin, her twelve son, who’s birth she died during.

The Palestinian Heritage Centre is home to a multure of authentic Palestinian items. Clothing, jewellery and home decor is lovingly crafted by local Palestinian woman, and profit from sold items goes to support families in need in Bethlehem. This is one of the most philanthropic tourist attractions in Israel.

The Old Bethlehem Museum offers a real insight into old Palestinian life and culture. You’ll find it within a typical 19th century Palestinian home, making the whole experience feel even more real. There is an embroidery centre upstairs, too.

Rewined is popular for its local drinks, shisha and terrace with a view – most visitors are people who live in the area, but you’ll be made to feel welcomed. 

Nirvana Café is a student haunt, with a varied food/drink menu and Saturday karaoke.

Special Café offers home-baked cakes and pastries as well as excellent coffee if you need a bit of a caffeine fix in somewhere with a laid-back vibe.

Star & Bucks, poking fun at the well-known coffee chain found across the globe, is popular with tourists because it’s a good laugh. The coffee (and tea) is meant to be good there, though, and they have free WiFi if you happen to need it. I got excited for a moment when I saw this coffee shop thinking that I could purchase a new addition for my mug collection …. sadly not!

Afteem Restaurant offers traditional architecture and even more traditional food: falafel and hummus.

Fawda Café & Restaurant is on everybody’s list. Owned by chef Fadi Kattan, the restaurant is part of a boutique hotel. There is a four-course set menu and exquisite Palestinian wine. Booking is absolutely essential here.

Herodian Guesthouse , located 700m from the Church of the Nativity, offers single, double and family rooms. It has free WiFi and private parking, outdoor seating and eating areas, city and mountain views and more. Restaurants and markets are nearby, and it is within easy reach of a lot of the popular tourist sites.

Al Salam Hotel is in the centre of Bethlehem. With a bright and colourful interior and plenty of things to see/do nearby, this is a great choice. The hotel offers single, double, twin and triple rooms; there is free WiFi, air-conditioning, free public parking, a restaurant on site and so much more.

House of Peace is more of a hostel. There are private rooms and dormitories, but all bathrooms are shared. Past visitors praise the cleanliness of the hostel, which has comfortable beds, free WiFi and parking, a shared kitchen, outdoor seating spaces and more.

If you’re after an apartment, check out Giovanni Apartment . It sleeps 7, so is ideal for big group trips. There is a garden, free WiFi and a small kitchenette. On-site parking is available if you are driving, too.

Eilat is a city in the south of Israel and some great tourist attractions in Israel. A port town on the Red Sea , it’s a far cry from other parts of Israel frequented by tourists. But it’s worth a visit all the same.

We actually ended up in Eilat by accident when our flight to Tel Aviv was cancelled and we took a bus to Israel from Egypt instead. Whilst it might not have been on our original itinerary, however, Eilat was a lovely place to visit and I would highly recommend it because it is home to some of the best tourist attractions in Israel! Here’s my complete guide to visiting Eilat, Israel.

The closest airport to Eilat is actually King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba, Jordan. This is over the border in Jordan. Direct flights reach Aqaba from London, but most flights require a stopover. To get from Aqaba to Eilat, you will need to cross the border. This cannot be done in a rental car, so bear that in mind and if you plan to hire a car do so when you reach Israel.

There are three places to cross the border into Israel. To get from Aqaba to Eilat, choose the Yitzhak Rabin Terminal – it is the closest to each of the two cities. You can get a taxi from the airport which will take you to the border crossing, and taxis are available on the other side too. You will need to pre-arrange your visa! Shuttle buses leave twice daily from Aqaba airport to the border, so if you are lucky you may catch one of these.

If you want to avoid crossing the border, fly to Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. Direct flights reach Ben Gurion from most major cities worldwide. You can hire a car from here and take the almost four hour drive to Eilat at your leisure. 

It is also possible to get from the airport to Eilat without car hire. Take a taxi from Ben Gurion to Tel Aviv Central Bus Station, and catch the 370 bus to the bus station in Beersheba. From here, take the 397 bus to Eilat Central Station. While the journey is long, it is not particularly difficult. Beware, however, that Friday is a holiday in Israel and many buses do not run! We were caught out and ended up staying an extra night in Eilat, which wasn’t our plan!

Things to see in Eilat, Israel

There are some great tourist attractions in Israel based here. The Eilat Mountains are vast and absolutely breathtaking. You can hike from the nature reserve, and there are various different routes. The trails follow ancient trade routes as well as the great Rift Valley. It’s also possible to see four different country from various points while hiking. As long as the weather is decent, you might be able to spot Egypt and Saudi Arabia, as well as nearby Jordan and Israel itself.

If hiking isn’t for you, jeep tours are available. They’re a lot more relaxed than hiking, and you can even try local cheese and herbal tea. There is various wildlife in the area: the Striped Hyena, the Dorcas Gazelle, the Golden Jackal. You might be lucky enough to spot them!

For some people, riding a camel is high on their bucket list when visiting Israel or other countries with large desert areas. You can ride a camel in Eilat. Camel Ranch is really nearby, and accessible by taxi – though they also offer a free shuttle service to and from the main road in Eilat. The ranch offers camel rides as well as donkey carts, bungee jumping and their very own rope park. Refreshments are available as well as shaded area and free parking. 

With a 10km shoreline, Eilat has plenty of beaches, making these major tourist attractions in Israel. Some have lifeguards and some don’t, and some are affiliated with the various hotels along the shore. The beaches in Eilat are all different, so you’ll be able to choose the right one for you.

• Kisuki Beach, for example, is quite rocky. It has no lifeguards, but offers plenty of water sports .
• Dolphin Reef Beach is popular because, unsurprisingly, you can see and interact with dolphins there. It’s a pretty beach with place to snorkel and a bar.
• Migdalor Beach is particularly peaceful. There is a lighthouse over the road, where the beach gets its name from, and it is one of the more quieter beaches.
• Village Beach has a bar with plenty of parties, and offers activities like beach volleyball. Not only this, but it has a tanning raft in the water too!
• Bar Beach is popular with scuba divers. The beach is on a natural reef reserve, and there is also a restaurant there.

One of the most popular beaches in Eilat – and the most famous – is Coral Beach. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive here and there is so much to see. There’s more than 100 types of coral here! There is also around 650 different species of fish here, too. The water is clear and warm, and the Coral Beach Nature Reserve and Underwater Marine Observatory are close by. This is one of my favourite tourist attractions in Israel.

Eilat is a great place to simply chill out and relax on the beach. The beaches are clean and have a very European feel to them, unlike the Egyptian beaches that are just down the shoreline. During out visit there was some tension between the Israelis and the Palestinians and we even got to see the iron dome in use! I wouldn’t necessarily recommend visiting Israel during a war, like we did, but there was no arguing that it wasn’t an educational experience!

It doesn’t rain much in Eilat. December is probably the wettest month with around 5mm or rainfall on average throughout the month – August is the driest, when it barely rains at all.

July and August are the hottest months, hitting high temperatures of 40°C and lows of 26-27°C. January is the coolest month of the year. It gets a high as 21°C and as low as 10°C during the month.

The weather in Eilat makes it a pleasant beach holiday destination year round.

No matter what you’re after, there is plenty of accommodation in Eilat, as you can see on the map below.

Here are some of my personal recommendations-

Herod’s Palace Hotel & Spa is a spot of luxury in Eilat. The rooms are spacious, modern and clean with balconies and free WiFi. Free private paring is available, there is a bar and restaurant and plenty of space to relax. With a gym, children’s area and large pool, there’s always something to do. The nearest beach is a mere 200 yards away!

Prima Music Hotel offers something a bit different. There is a music room, where you can spin records yourself, and the colourful rooms are complete with stern systems. There is free WiFi and public parking, a pool and spa facilities, and a 24h front desk. Coral Beach is just 5 minutes away by foot.

Exodus Hoste l offers both private rooms and dormitories. A little less central, the hostel still has everything you’ll need: free WiFi, a pool, a garden & barbecue, shared kitchen and more. Pets are welcome, too! The nearest beach is around 1300 yards away.

There you have it, a complete guide to visiting Eilat, Israel. Enjoy your stay!

Mitzpe Ramon

This was one of my favourite tourist attractions in Israel. Nestled in southern Israel, Mitzpe Ramon is a far cry from the more tourist-driven areas of the country. But that’s the main reason why I loved it!

Somewhat reminiscent of the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, Mitzpe Ramon is eerily quiet, yet spectacularly beautiful. If you get a chance, I would absolutely recommend visiting Mitzpe Ramon on your travels through Israel and add it to your list of must-visit tourist attractions in Israel.

This is one of the most impressive tourist attractions in Israel, for sure. One of the main draws of Mitzpe Ramon is its proximity to the Ramon Crater. The town is right on the edge of the crater, which you can discover more about further down this blog post. The visitor centre and museum for the creator is located in the town, too.

We loved just looking out at the view. There were barely any tourists and it was really peaceful. There are some ruins around the area and random statues too. This was one of my favourite tourist attractions in Israel.

Another reason to visit Mitzpe Ramon is its Spice Quarter. Warehouses and hangars have been transformed into businesses, both cultural and touristic. Cafés, hotels, a bakery, a dance school, a jazz club and more can be found within the Spice Quarter.

Israel’s only alpaca farm can be found in Mitzpe Ramon, too. It costs NIS 25 (under £6 sterling) for entry, and there are alpacas, llamas and horses. Children can ride the llamas and alpacas, and anyone can ride the horses. This is a working farm, and visitors can explore the weaving factory as well as feeding the animals.

Mitzpe Ramon is also a great base for accessing Zin Valley and Ein Avdat, which are brilliant hiking locations. There are jeep tours, bike trails and wine tasting experiences nearby, too.

The closest airport to the town is the new (as of 2019) Ramon Airport. It is just over 130km away from Mitzpe Ramon, and around 1.5 hour drive. Public transport takes around 2.5 hours. Due to how recently the airport opened, not a lot of flight routes have been established. There are not a lot of direct international flights operating at present – more seasonal flights are due to be released over the next few months, however.

The second closest airport to Mitzpe Ramon is Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. This is the largest international airport in the country, and flights operate to and from a variety of major cities worldwide. You can fly here from London, New York, Munich and more. At just over 180km from Mitzpe Ramon, and a 2 hour drive, it isn’t too far to consider flying here. Car rental services are available from Ben Gurion Airport.

The average high temperature ranges from around 13°C in January, to 31°C in July. The average low temperature ranges from 6.6°C in January, to 19.7°C in July.

The hottest months are between May and September. The coldest months are between December and March. However, the location above the crater means that the wind is fairly strong – this means  that it often feels colder than it is in Mitzpe Ramon.

There are plenty of places to stay within the Mitzpe Ramon area.

Ramon Suites by Smart Hotels offer comfortable suites in a great location. The suites have private bathrooms and free WiFi (the hotel also provide laptops you can use if need be) as well as free private parking, a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage and more. With bright and modern decor, spacious seating areas and brilliant access to the crater, this is a great choice if you’re looking for a hotel in the area.

VILA KEDEM is a private villa that sleeps 13. It offers true luxury: a private pool, hot tub, terrace and barbecue facilities as well as stunning decor, gorgeous views, free WiFi, and a whole 2368 ft² so you have plenty of space. Located in the town of Mitzpe Ramon, this is the perfect choice if there’s a big group of you travelling together. With a large kitchen, soundproof rooms and three bathrooms there is plenty of opportunity for privacy, too.

Spice Quarter Inn offers a variety of different room types. There are family rooms and dorm-style rooms, all with private bathrooms. The hotel is said to have a lovely community feeling, with a shared lounge area and a sun terrace. Pets are allowed here, and the hotel can arrange activities such as archery, horse riding, pub crawls and more! This is the ideal hotel for a family trip to Israel, and as it’s located in the Spice Quarter there is plenty to do in the immediate surrounding areas.

Now you know a bit more about planning trip to Mitzpe Ramon, let’s talk about the main attraction! The Ramon Crater – also know as Makhtesh Ramon – is an erosion crater. This type of landform is unique to the Negev Desert in Israel, where the Ramon Crater is, and to Egypt’s Sinai Desert.

An erosion crater or makhtesh is a large erosion cirque. They were caused around 220 million years ago, when the areas were covered by oceans. The Ramon Crater is around 40km long, and between 2 and 10km wide. The Ramon Nature Reserve is Israel’s largest national park.

There is plenty to do at the Ramon Crater, such as:

• Stargazing (with snacks and mattresses to ensure comfort)
• Abseiling (also known as rappelling )
• Camel Lookout viewpoint
• The Albert Promenade (decorated with environmental structures, and leading to the so-called bird balcony where birds will soar below your feet)
• Jeep and 4X4 tours

You can also camp in the Ramon Crater. Khan Be’erot Camping Ground is the only location within the crater itself, and has a capacity of 700 people. You can bring your own tent, or come in a group (such as a school or university trip) and stay in the larger tents available with mattresses. There are also ‘staff’ rooms with bunk beds.

The camping ground has electrical outlets, barbecues, a kitchen, drinking water, tables with benches, and some showers and toilets. You can find more information here .

Mount Tabor

When it comes to visiting Israel, there are plenty of biblical sites to explore, which are some of the most fascinating tourist attractions in Israel. One of the places that we stopped off at was Mount Tabor, which I would recommend.

The dome-shaped mountain is located in Lower Galilee. At the eastern end of the Jezreel Valley, it offers 360 degree views of Northern Israel. On a clear day, visitors can see the valley as well as Mount Gilboa, the Samarian mountains, the Golan Heights, Mount Carmel, Afula, Gilead, both Lower and Upper Galilee and even Mount Hermon, at the Lebanese border- wow! This is certainly one of the best tourist attractions in Israel for views!

The closest international airport is Ben Gurion. You can get flights to here from various major cities worldwide: London, Munich, NYC, Paris. From here there are various ways to get to Mount Tabor and, of course, the nearby areas where you can stay.

Car hire is available at Ben Gurion Airport, and most tourists (myself included!) claim that driving is the easiest way to travel around Israel. We used Europcar , which was great value for money, quick and simple.

Whilst we didn’t drive directly from the airport to Mount Tabor, you can do if you wish. The drive to the Mount Tabor area is around 1.5 hours.

The nearest village is Kfar Tavor. It takes approximately 2.5 hours to get here by public transport. The 50 train will take you to Tel Aviv-Hashalom, where the 825 bus from Azrieli Mall will take you to the centre of Afula. From here, you can get the 442 bus for the 20 minute journey to Kfar Tavor.

Nazareth is also close to Mount Tabor. Getting here also takes 2.5 hours, but might be slightly less complicated. It again involves the 50 train from Ben Gurion to Tel Aviv, then you’ll get the 826 bus from Azrieli Mall directly to Hapikud Junction in Nazareth.

From either of these towns, you can drive to Mount Tabor. You can also walk via the Israel National Trail. This will take a few hours but if you’re a keen walker, it might be worth doing! Once you get to the peak, there is a car park area from which you can continue driving to the summit. Again, you can hike to the summit instead or hop on a minibus.

If driving or hiking isn’t your thing, guided tours and day trips to Mount Tabor and the surrounding area are also available.

There are a few tourist attractions in Israel based here. There is an entire church complex at Mount Tabor, making this one of the most impressive tourist attractions in Israel. Known as the Church of the Transfiguration, it is a Franciscan church believed to be the site where the Transfiguration of Christ happened. The current church was built in the 1920s on the ruins of an ancient Byzantine church and a 12th-century Crusader Kingdom church.

The Church of Transfiguration contains three grottoes. These belonged to the Crusader church and are said to represent the three huts that Peter wanted to build, for Jesus, Moses and Elias/Elijah. The Grotto of Christ is in the eastern part of the church, and there are two chapels – one for Moses and one for Elijah.

There is also a gold mosaic within the church. On August 6th each year, the sun strikes a glass plate which illuminates the mosaic. This date is considered to be the day of the Transfiguration.

The church is surrounded by the ruins of a Benedictine monastery. It’s interesting to walk around and soak up the architecture, even if you’re not particularly interested in biblical sites.

TIP: the church is open from 8-11.45am and then again from 2-5pm, and modest clothing is required for entry.

If you’re a keen walker, hiking up Mount Tabor is an incredible way to spend a day. At 575m high, the mountain is not particularly high – so you don’t need too much hiking experience. There are three different hiking trails:

• The Long Trail: beginning at the Bedouin village or Shibli, at the foot of Mount Tabor, this trail is 5km long.
• The Short Trail: this is a 2.5km nature trail at the summit.
• The Israel National Trail: this much lounger route encompasses Mount Tabor.

There are also plenty of beautiful walking trails in the woodlands surrounding the mountain itself, which are nice tourist attractions in Israel. You can also do jeep tours that encompass Mount Tabor! If you’re feeling really daring, you can actually paraglide at Mount Tabor if the wind conditions are right for it.

Where to stay when visiting Mount Tabor

As mentioned above, there are two places you can stay that are close to Mount Tabor. These are Nazareth and Kfar Tavor. There are plenty of options depending on what you’re after…

At 1.8 miles from Mount Tabor, the Pearl of the Valley Hotel is bright, modern and spacious. It has free WiFi and free parking, as well as a bar, a garden and terrace, a chapel and a 24h front desk. There is a petrol station nearby, which is ideal if you are driving around Israel, and the location is ideal for hiking.

Just outside of Kfar Tavor and approximately 4 miles from the mountain itself, you can book a beautiful 6-capacity villa . With a city view, functional kitchen, modern decor and plenty of outdoor space, this accommodation is ideal for larger families. The kitchen means you are free to eat whenever you want! There is free WiFi, and pets are allowed too. There’s even a jacuzzi…

2.5 miles from Mount Tabor lies a beautiful country house . It has rooms that sleep up to 4, all with private bathrooms and air-conditioning. There’s free WiFi, an outdoor dining area, wellness facilities and the opportunity to arrange airport drop offs.

The Al Mutran Guest House , in the old city of Nazareth, is a 200 year old Arab mansion that has been converted into a hotel. There are a variety of room types, from economy rooms to family rooms – all are non-smoking. The guest house has free WiFi, private parking, traditional decor and stunning rooms. Mount Tabor is around 5 miles away.

The eConci Apartments in the Latin Quarter sleep up to 5 people. It’s one apartment, with two bedrooms and a sofa bed – there’s a balcony and fantastic views, airport transport can be arranged and the kitchen provides the freedom to eat whenever you want. Mount Tabor is 5.2 miles from this apartment.

Sea of Galilee

This is another of the best tourist attractions in Israel. The Sea of Galilee, whilst not technically a sea, is one of the most important biblical landmarks in the world. It is where Jesus is said to have walked on water. Every year tourists flock to visit – so here’s everything you need to know about making a trip to Sea of Galilee.

The Sea of Galilee is in the northeast of Israel. It is located in the Jordan Rift Valley, between the Golan Heights and the Galilee region. This valley was caused by the separation of the African and Arabian plates – so earthquakes are common.

Confusingly, the Sea of Galilee is actually a lake. It is the lowest freshwater lake on the planet, at levels of between 215m (705ft) and 209m (686ft) below sea level! This makes it one of the most noteworthy tourist attractions in Israel.

Only the best tourist attractions in Israel have multiple names, right? There are various other names for the lake itself. This can get confusing: street signs or information boards might not say what you’re expecting them to say. Other names include:

• Lake Tiberias
• Kinneret/Kinnereth
• Buhayrat Tabariya
• Yam Kinneret

Fun fact: Kinneret is Hebrew for ‘violin’ – this is said to be the shape the lake most closely resembles.

The closest city to the Sea of Galilee is Tiberias. To get to Tiberias, you can fly to Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) in Tel Aviv. Flights arrive here from various cities around the world such as London, Paris, Madrid, Los Angeles and more.

The airport is 130km from Tiberias. Whether you choose the 1.5 hour drive (you can hire a car or use a local taxi company) or the 3 hour train and bus journey, there are plenty of ways to get to the city. 

Tiberias is on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. You will have fantastic views of the lake from the city, and especially from the newly renovated Tiberias Promenade.

You can also incorporate a visit to the area on a day trip from other Israeli cities. A lot of tourists choose to stay in either Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, and there are a variety of organised tours that take you to see the Sea of Galilee amongst other fascinating places. 

There are plenty of beaches around the lake, which make for great tourist attractions in Israel. Depending on what you’re after, there is bound to be the perfect beach for you. Tsemach Beach is one of the best: for a small fee you can enjoy all the amenities it has to offer. These include chairs, umbrellas, dining facilities, lifeguards and an on-site water park!

Gofra Beach is another popular beach around the Sea of Galilee – especially with campers. Open all week, it is lined with Eucalyptus trees making it perfectly shaded for pitching tents. Upgrade your pitch to include a picnic table, lighting, a fridge and more.

Another tourist haven in the area is Bora Bora Beach. Privately owned, it has everything you might need. From sofas to grassy areas, shower and restrooms, various seating levels and long opening hours – the beach has it all. Perfect for families, couples and party-goers alike, Bora Bora Beach is a favourite among visitors to the area around the lake. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Israel for relaxation.

Other than relaxing on the beach, the area has several other tourist attractions in Israel. You can go kayaking or canoeing in the lake itself, marvel at the stunning Church of the Beatitudes or hike along the 35km trail known as Shvil Sovev Kinneret.

Tiberias promenade offers a light show in the evening, there is a spa built around the hot springs of the area and the Hamat Tiberias National Park offers fantastic archaeological sites.

Of course, given the biblical importance of the Sea of Galilee, there are a lot of religious things to see and do. The Jesus Boat Museum houses a 2000-year-old boat as well as other historic artefacts, and you can see the hometown of Mary Magdalene. Capernaum National Park (sometimes called the town of Jesus) is there, as well as Tabgha – the garden where Jesus fed the 5,000. There are so many Christian sites in and around the area, so if it’s something you’re interested in you’re bound to have a fruitful visit.

There are so many options when it comes to finding somewhere to stay at or near the Sea of Galilee. Whether you’re after a hotel, apartment, chalet or something different, here are some ideas…

Tiberias Vacation Apartments offer modern decor, a varied continental breakfast and stunning sea views. There’s free WiFi, a sun terrace, free private parking and pets are allowed, too. In the centre of Tiberias, the apartments are well located and look out over the Sea of Galilee.

Cnaan Village Boutique Hotel & Spa is excellently located with panoramic views of the Sea of Galilee. As you might expect, it has a boutique vibe: a spa and wellness centre, slippers and bathrobes in the rooms, free Wifi and parking, air conditioning and much more. The rooms have flat-screen TVs, and guests are welcomed with complimentary wine, soft drinks, chocolate, fruit and more. It’s perfect for something a bit special!

The White Chalet View , as the name suggests, offers a great view of the Sea of Galilee. Pets are allowed, there’s a pool and free WiFi, a private bathroom for each chalet, BBQ facilities and more. The pool area has a jacuzzi and plenty of loungers, and the class are perfect for couples and families alike.

Trust Inn is an apartment that sleeps 8. With four bedrooms, a kitchen, a pool and plenty of living space, it makes the perfect option for group trips.

The final destination on this list of tourist attractions in Israel is Tel Aviv. Tel Aviv is an exciting city renowned for its vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine. As the largest city in Israel, it is a major tourist destination for people from around the world . There are plenty of tourist attractions in Israel based in Tel Aviv, from exploring its historical sites and monuments to enjoying the city’s beaches and culinary delights.

One of the top tourist attractions in Israel in Tel Aviv is the Mediterranean Sea, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful white-sand beaches. Visitors can spend the day relaxing on the beach, swimming in the sea, or participating in a variety of water sports such as snorkeling and paddleboarding. There are also a variety of beachfront restaurants and cafes, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the stunning views.

The Tel Aviv Museum of Art is another popular destination in the city. Museums make for some of the best tourist attractions in Israel and this one is no exception. The museum features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art from around the world, as well as a selection of Israeli artworks. Visitors can explore the museum’s permanent collection, take part in the museum’s educational programs and events, or visit the museum shop for unique souvenirs.

For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the Old City of Jaffa is a must. This ancient port city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a variety of historical monuments and sites. Visitors can wander through the narrow alleyways, explore the ancient fortifications, and visit the archaeological site. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Israel.

Tel Aviv is also a great destination for foodies. The city is known for its vibrant culinary scene, and there are plenty of restaurants serving up delicious dishes from around the world. From traditional Israeli dishes to international cuisines, you can find something to satisfy your cravings in Tel Aviv.

No matter what you’re looking for, there are plenty of things to do in Tel Aviv. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or a cultural experience, Tel Aviv has something for everyone.

As you can see, there are many fantastic tourist attractions in Israel. Some of the tourist attractions in Israel are cultural, historical or religious and some of the tourist attractions in Israel are relaxation-focussed. But whatever you’re in to, the tourist attractions in Israel have something to suit you.

If you enjoyed this article on the tourist attractions in Israel, I am sure that you will love these too:

• 12 surprising facts about the Dead Sea
• 15 Incredible Tourist Attractions in Jordan + detailed guide
• An Incredible 8 Days in Jordan with Kids
• 7 Incredible Sights Along The Kings Highway Jordan
• Driving in Jordan: 10 things you NEED to know

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Home » Middle East » Israel » Places to Visit

16 Best Places to Visit in Israel (ATTRACTION GUIDE • 2024)

Let’s be upfront: perhaps no country on earth divides public opinion quite like Israel does.

It’s not a big country, but there are a lot of beautiful things to see in Israel. It’s an old land, older than even the biblical texts would have us believe. There are also ancient sites around Israel that perhaps carry more weight than we can ever comprehend.

That’s what the last couple of months here have felt like; an attempt to comprehend the incomprehensible. There are a lot of beautiful places in Israel filled with majesty, and there is also a lot that hurts the heart. It’s impossible to travel Israel without being confronted by these and it’s taken me nearly two months of learning about the country and experiencing that spectrum to come to a conclusion…

That there is much beauty in Israel.

That’s why I’ve written this guide to Israel’s top places to visit: my top places to visit. It covers a bit of everything from Israel’s religious places and historical sites, to its stunning natural landscapes, to its mind-bending otherworld. This list, I feel, gives Israel – and Palestine – a fair coverage.

I understand that discussing Israel is a political minefield and that you’re sticking your toes in with the sharks and I respect that. But I also respect honesty and integrity and I’m gonna do my best to keep my digits intact! So without further digression, let’s have a look at my choice of the best places to visit in Israel – the must-see sights and sites of the Holy Land!

Looking for a dope spot? This is the best area in Israel for traveller vibes!

The best places to visit in israel: highlights of the holy land, faq on the best places to visit in israel, summing up the best places to visit in israel.

Mitzpe Ramon

The gorgeous landscapes of southern Israel, hiking galore, and one helluva hippy hotspot makes this one of the best places to visit in Israel for backpackers!

• Sunset from the cliff over Makhtesh Ramon (Ramon Crater) is yum.
• Check out the many, many hiking trails.
• Forget the hostel – camp out under the stars!

Ready to embark on a little pilgrimage? That’s great, but before you do, be sure to check out where to stay in Israel and book yourself an epic stay in accommodation worthy of your choosing. Then, continue on down to things to see and things to do in Israel from the river to the sea. Starting with the classic choice…

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#1 – Tel Aviv – Expected top of the places to visit in Israel list.

• Sexy architecture and art.
• Believe it or not, it can be cheap.
• Extremely secular.

Listen, I’m not in love with Tel Aviv. I did, however, find a 6 shekel falafel, a bouldering gym, stellar Airbnb’s to stay in and dope exercise parks… oh, and the dumpster diving is on-point too ! One way or another, ‘The White City’ has Israel’s main international airport and everybody visits Tel Aviv regardless; it’s the best place to go in Israel (or more appropriately, the only place) that offers this vibe.

• Why it’s awesome: The vibe I’m referring to is that modern, “liberal”, hipster-chic, “Why everything gotta cost money!” feels. I kinda thought it felt like San Francisco but then a guy from San Fran said it felt more like a European millennial-bourgey city. I can’t comment there so I’m just gonna say it’s comparable to Melbourne except the people aren’t quite as friendly. But people love all those places? Exactly! What Tel Aviv offers, it brings in spades.
• What to do there: Tel Aviv is the best place to visit in Israel for nightlife – no arguments there. Pubs, dive bars, speakeasies, live music, jam nights, clubs, techno, house, good genres of electronic music (psytrance), Hebrew poetry slams: it’s all there! There’s sick street art, buskers, and espressos at every turn. The beaches are excellent (and the sunsets are even better) but you’ll want to head north or south from the main hub to escape the crowds. Jaffa is the old town (which Tel Aviv has built around) and here things get more historical and Arabic in vibes.

Ultimately, there are some of Israel’s tourist attractions in Tel Aviv but I’d say that, for most backpackers, Tel Aviv is the tourist attraction. People come here to live the Tel Avivian life and I’d also say that it’s a must-visit place in Israel to gather the full-scope of the complexity of the country. Tel Aviv is also very safe (for the region).

#2 – Neve Sha’anan – A place of interest in Israel for seeking complexity.

• A cheaper area in Tel Aviv.
• Another side of the city.
• An important place to visit in Israel.

Still very much a part of Tel Aviv, Neve Sha’anan is another world. Seen as the ‘underbelly of Tel Aviv’, it’s become the home for Israel’s many refugees, impoverished, and unwashed. Here you’ll find many of Tel Aviv’s low-class brothels, streetwalkers, and homeless muttering to themselves as they trawl for scraps. It’s not a dangerous place in Israel, however; violent crime statistics are very low in the country.

• Why it’s awesome: It may not be everyone’s vibe but I love it! Things are cheaper, the scope of cuisine is spectacular, and it’s a delicious peek below Tel Aviv’s mask of acceptance. Rough or not, this is multiculturalism in Israel at its finest and also it’s a fantastic opportunity to see the dichotomy of the country.
• What to do there: Eating is a great start! Authentic Sudanese, Eritrean, Chinese, Indian, Filipino, and more – a nice alternative to when the cheap falafel and hummus gets old (spoiler: it never does). A walk around the neighbourhood on Friday night (the start of Shabbat) when the rest of the city begins to hibernate offers some of the most chaotic vibrancy. It really felt like stepping back into Asia.

I ended up uncovering the area because of my work reviewing Abraham Tours . It’s definitely a tour I recommend and you can book through them or, even better, contact Rikki (she was the guide) to book directly: +972-52-217-6188 . Whatever you choose to do, get Rikki: the girl knows her stuff – crazy insightful!

#3 – Jerusalem – A famous place in Israel of biblical proportions!

• The City of (the Abrahamic) God.
• It’s Jerusalem.
• Spectacular architecture.

I don’t really like Jerusalem either – sorry! It still stands as the most famous place in Israel to visit though – no contest. If Neve Sha’anan is another world, Jerusalem is another planet. Taking the one-hour drive from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem is enough to get culture shock.

• Why it’s awesome: Dude, it’s Jerusalem! The city has had so many kingdoms within it, battles fought for it, and people who have died because of it (steadfastly avoiding the obvious Jesus joke). I don’t usually link Wikipedia but this shit be bonkers! Whether you’re looking for biblical sites in Israel, holy places to visit, or just history… well… it’s Jerusalem! If your looking for the best hostels to stay in , Jerusalem has got a fair few of those too.
• What to do there: It’s the (disputed) capital of Israel and a big city; the vibe may be different to Tel Aviv but it still has all the offerings. Nightlife, markets, secrets, hustle and bustle – just with more funny hats! The Old City of Jerusalem is definitely one of Israel’s must-sees.

Outside of that, I’d recommend just strolling Jerusalem’s neighbourhoods and absorbing the feeling. Stepping from the new city to the old, the Jewish to the Muslim Quarter, or from a secular area to an Ultra-Orthodox neighbourhood all offer they’re own level of inundation of the senses. Just be wary that you don’t contract Jerusalem Syndrome – Jerusalem is crazy and I haven’t met someone who disagrees yet.

I’m not gonna spend all post plugging Abraham Tours, but the ‘Meet the Ultra Orthodox Tour’ in Jerusalem was another of their’s that I thoroughly enjoyed. It’s for sure worth the consideration if you got the spare shekels.

#4 – The Dead Sea – Time for a fun place to visit in Israel!

• Quintessential photo-ops!
• Become a mud monster.
• The water tastes like a fish’s taint.

It’s a stone’s throw from Jerusalem (and Tel Aviv – Israel is small) and it’s the Dead Sea. You know, the sea so salty you can’t sink in it! You can still drown if you’re a dumbhead though.

• Why it’s awesome: C’mon, it’s the Dead Sea; this was a childhood dream of mine since I was six! If you want to talk about unique places in Israel and must-see things, this is it (unless you’ve been to Jordan – shh ).
• What to do there: As my friend reminded my perpetually-moving mind when we were there: “Just lie back, close your eyes, and feel the water take your weight.” Unless you have any open cuts on your body. Then you’re in for a world of pain!

We went to Kalia Beach which, sadly, costs ($17) . It’s pretty much a day at the beach for Israelis – complete with the ‘lowest bar in the world’ – except with a bonus total exfoliation and searing agony of the eyeballs (AVOID) .

If you want to find a free place to camp and dirtbag by the Dead Sea, they definitely exist, particularly in the south. People sleep out, build huts, and do them; I just never caught the name of one or followed it up. That’s your adventure!

Ein Gedi is also near the Dead Sea and is another crazy beautiful place to visit in Israel for some nature goodness.

#5 – Nazareth – A popular place in Israel to praise Jesus.

• Quiet (except at Christmas – ugh).
• Warm vibes.

Nazareth is definitely a religious place to visit in Israel for the lovers of Jesus but I’m skirting that because it’s got nothing to do with why I love it. I came here after roughly two weeks in Tel Aviv and suddenly it felt like I could breathe again. Suddenly, I was in a place where the streets were quieter and the people weren’t inexplicably rude for no reason. Nazareth is chill.

• Why it’s awesome: Nazareth is known as the “Arab Capital of Israel” and that changes the vibes rather significantly. The food also changes but only marginally. The old city (as usual) is mega-pretty and it just so happens that my favourite hostel in Israel is there too.
• What to do there: You’ll find a lot of Israel’s religious sites here pertaining to that Jesus feller (’Jesus of Nazareth’ – makes sense); Nazareth is the starting point of the Jesus Trail too. It’s not just Christian jazz though – there’s a large Muslim population as well which means gorgeous mosques and echoing prayers at sundown.

For the Messiah-chasers, it’s a top tourist destination in Israel. However, for those who aren’t seeking biblical places to visit, it’s just a chill refuge from the admittedly challenging nature of backpacking in Israel . The city is full of cats and friendly folk, there are mountains around Nazareth to wander up, and you can practice some Arabic!

Check out Abu Ashraf – the knaffeh is supreme – and Abu Salem too. The drinks are a tad expensive but the decor is intoxicating and people-watching old Arabic men shredding the shesh-besh (backgammon) board never gets old.

#6 – Bethlehem – Starting off the places to visit in Palestine list.

• Jesus again.
• A gentle introduction to Palestine.
• Phenomenal street art.

Since we covered Nazareth, we’re visiting the West Bank with the next few entries and Bethlehem is a good start. It’s still very much a top religious tourist attraction in Israel. I’d also say it’s one of the best starting places to visit in in Israel and Palestine if you’re ready to start the journey down the rabbit hole.

• Why it’s awesome: The birthplace of Jesus is a good start! Past that, there are a few more of Israel’s sacred ancient sites and then there’s the wall. The barrier wall between the West Bank and Israel (that also annexes Rachel’s Tomb). The wall goes by many names depending on your stance on the on the conflict and it’s all thin-ice-politics but regardless, the wall is definitely a must-see thing in Israel both for the awesome art and what it represents.
• What to do there: There’s a whole host of the must-see biblical sites in Israel. The aforementioned Rachel’s Tomb , The Church of the Nativity (built over Jesus’s alleged birthplace), The Milk Grotto (ew)… That’s just a small selection too. The occupation wall is something else. It’s covered in graffiti from the humorous to the downright sobering and even includes some work from Banksy – it’s the real reason I recommend visiting Bethlehem. The art is spectacular, and the selfie-ops are tempting, but when you’re trailing the wall just try to remember what you’re actually looking at under the street art.

Read the stories posted on the wall and take a moment to feel the gravitas of Palestine.

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#7 – Other Biblical Sites in Israel – Rounding off the holy places to visit in Israel.

Before we head deeper into the West Bank, let’s round off the religious places to visit in Israel. To be fair, most of these are more places to visit in Palestine.

It’s not my jam but neither is orange marmalade and my mum loves both orange marmalade and Jesus and she’s the best! Let’s take a look at the remaining must-see biblical sites in Israel for all the lovers of orange marmalade:

• Jericho: Of the ‘we made your walls fall down and then genocided the entire city’ fame. Historically speaking, that probably didn’t happen, but the ruins here are old and well predate any biblical events (except, arguably, Genesis 1:1). They’re not super impressive but good for the archaeology/history buffs.
• The Mount of Temptation: Presumed to be Mount Quarantania , this was where Jesus was tempted during a 40-day fast by Satan rocking up with a few delicately-rolled doobs and some Chocolate Fudge Brownie Ben & Jerry’s ice-cream (biblical accuracy not guaranteed). Mount Quarantania is right above Jericho and the monastery constructed underneath is actually a super pretty place to visit in Israel.
• Mount Tabor: Close to Nazareth and the supposed location of the Transfiguration of Jesus. It’s also just a cool looking mountain!
• Jordan River: And the Baptismal Site of Jesus Christ. For the record, I had a dunk, but it doesn’t count as baptism if you do it to yourself.

#8 – The West Bank – Palestine – All important places to visit in Israel.

• The people are kind.
• The coffee and cigarettes are cheaper!
• Street food is back.

Ok, ready to do this? Let’s go deeper.

Although there are some of Israel’s popular places scattered around the West Bank (namely, the aforementioned biblical sites), travelling to the West Bank for Palestine itself is not high on the standard itinerary for Israel. Although some may worry that it’s a dangerous place in Israel, my experience was that it’s not.

If visiting the West Bank is not for you, then that’s your choice and totally ok. BUT, you can’t really say you explored the secrets of Israel unless you explored all of it. There are more than just Israelis living in Israel.

• Why it’s awesome: Look, there is definitely beauty in Palestine of the ‘appeal to tourists’ variety but that’s not necessarily why travel there. I actually found it heartbreaking. For those that aren’t used to travelling in developing countries, I imagine these feelings may only be compounded. This is why I say that both Tel Aviv and the Palestinian cities and villages are both must-see places in Israel. The act of travelling only 70 km changes everything.
• What to do there: Meet the people. The Palestinian places are safe in Israel and most people are not hostile in the slightest with tourists (yes, even Americans). You can potentially expect some India-esque moments to get some shekels off you so keep your smart traveller hat on . They’re welcoming and warm and just really excited to talk, both about Palestine and the world at large that they’ll never be permitted to see.

If you want to get out in the villages, then I that applaud that. Otherwise, for the city life, Nablus is a tad more chill than Ramallah but they’re both going to give you a good understanding… plus the food is the best!

Also, the Palestinian kids really know how to throw down for a good night! Check Radio in Ramallah on Thursdays. That’ll get you started, at least.

#9 – Hebron – An extremely important thing to see in Israel.

• You gotta see it to believe it.
• It’s a place you must see in Israel.
• Conveniently, super cheap!

I counted this separately from the other places to visit in the West Bank because it deserves it’s own entry. I met a traveller in Israel who enjoys seeking out alternative and darker places . I forewarned him that Hebron is heavy. Three days later I got a message:

Dude, this is fucking heavy…

• Why it’s awesome: Short of Gaza, this is the best place to visit in Israel to see the conflict at its most real. The city is divided into two sections one of which is H1 – the Palestinian side of the city. H1 sits behind walls, barbed-wire, and assault rifles brandished by the Israeli military. Inside is living standards much, much closer to a city in India than Tel Aviv. It’s not “awesome”; It’s heavy and it hurts and, ultimately, I feel it’s a must-see place in Israel. The only way to make up your own mind is to go there and I’m grateful I did. Broke Backpacker Senior Editor, Freeborn Aiden , also rates at is as the MUST SEE place in Israel if you want to even begin to understand the complexities.
• What to do there: The main tourist attraction in Hebron is the Tomb of the Patriarchs , the supposed burial site of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and their respective wives. The tomb itself is split in half – a synagogue and a mosque. Outside of that, I’d say, again, walk around H1 and meet the people. It won’t take long before you’re sitting and drinking coffee with a local.

This is the last Abraham Tour I’m mentioning. I did the Hebron Dual Narrative Tour and, although rushed (Hebron deserves more exploration), it’s still an extremely insightful tour that aptly displays the dualistic nature of the situation. It’s a recommendation.

Lastly, for these Palestinian areas, I think it’s well worth finding accommodation with a local. That could mean a homestay, an Airbnb in a shared space, or even Couchsurfing is super possible! One way or another, I think you’ll get way more from the experience doing that than from staying in a hotel.

#10 –  Mitzpe Ramon – Back to the most beautiful places to visit in Israel!

• Sunset majesty.
• Hippies unite!
• Ganja – that is all.

Ok, that’s it. Don’t worry; the rest of the list is only the pretty shit! Topping that off is Mitzpe Ramon, one of the best places to travel to in Israel for sunsets and smoke!

• Why it’s awesome: Mitzpe Ramon is a town located on a ridge overlooking Makhtesh Ramon (Ramon Crater) . I’ll talk about the sheer stunning awesomeness of the Negev Desert and south Israel in a moment but suffice to say the outlook from the ridge is stunning! Mitzpe Ramon has also become an epicentre for all things hippy in Israel. There’s a lively little community built around music, art, and creative expression and, of course, find a hippy, find joints. To be fair, you’ll find joints everywhere in Israel.
• What to do there: Smoke joints…? Oh, other than that? Hiking, for sure! Israel is actually super dope for hiking and Mitzpe Ramon is no different . You have a whole host of trails at your disposal and they’re all blisteringly gorgeous! Just remember to take water… and a joint… maybe two.

#11 – Eilat and Southern Israel – My personal top place to visit in Israel (minus Eilat).

• That desert, man.
• The Red Sea!
• Cross to Sinai in Egypt.

Ok, so I’m mostly going to skip over Eilat. The Red Sea is there which is rad but, otherwise, it’s a resort town: it feels like Vegas and it’s yukky and I don’t like it. Diving in Eilat is also a thing. So why talk about Eilat? Because everything around it is spectacular!

• Why it’s awesome: The Negev Desert , the Red Sea , Sinai (in Egypt)… For me, southern Israel was the only part I found that was truly felt uniquely beautiful (including Mitzpe Ramon – yum) and it’s the most beautiful place in Israel for me. The Negev Desert legit looks like Mars at times and the Red Sea is crazy pretty! Sunrise, sunset… it’s all good!
• What to do there: Consider Eilat just your base for the nature. You’ll find parties there at night obviously, but it’s way too flashy for my taste. You’ve got some pretty dope hiking in the area though; Timna Park and the Red Canyon are both excellent or you can just disappear into the desert… on weekends. The rest of the time it’s a firing zone for the military sooo maybe a no go. It’s also the Red Sea which means all things aquatic: there’s diving in Eilat, snorkelling, paddleboarding, sailing… Pretty much anything that doesn’t require waves!

You can also cross to the Sinai region in Egypt which is equally common for Israeli tourists. It’s super beautiful but it’s technically not a ‘place to visit in Israel’ so read our Backpacking Egypt Travel Guide for more info.

#12 – Kibbutzim or Moshavim – Both historical places in Israel and an escape.

• The sounds of birds and cows.
• Fruit from the trees.
• Cheap living.

There’s a whole interesting history here with kibbutzim and the founding of the state of Israel, communities built on socialist ideals, and also just how things change over time. Long story short though, they started as agricultural communities built around communal living and work. The system has changed and restructured a lot in recent years, however.

Moshavim are similar but different. Still all about the agriculture and community but just a bit less about the socialist ideals!

• Why it’s awesome: Firstly, the vibe just chills out a whole helluva a lot more once you reach a kibbutz or moshav, especially outside the urban centre of Israel. They’re agricultural communities which means nature, fresh food and veg, sometimes hippies and smoke, and an escape from the chaos! The shared-lifestyles of these communities is really cool to observe. Israel has it’s own twist on the whole ‘lack of privacy’ thing in Asia (yes, Israel is still Asia) and aspects of it I really enjoy.
• What to do there: Farm work, mainly. Kibbutzim have a long-standing history of taking in travellers in exchange for work (the OG Workaway) and although the game has changed pretty substantially, you’ll still find farms seeking volunteers. Alternatively, just rock up and camp in the fields for a night. They’re always super pretty and no one will really care as long as you don’t step on any of their crops. Again, it’s that ‘lack of privacy’ thing.

Any suggestions for best places to go in Israel for the kibbutz/moshav life? I spent some time in Kfar Yehezkel and the family vibes are high; here’s their Workaway page and our review of Workaway with a sweet, sexy bonus deal inside.  I also camped out at Ramot Menashe , Dafna is supposed to be dope, and Samar down near Eilat is full of alternative vibes.

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#13 Haifa and Acre – Maybe not the best but still cool places to visit in Israel.

• Cities but more chill.
• Beaches but more chill.
• A bit more harmony.

I lumped these two of Israel’s famous places together because they’re so close to each other. It’s perfectly reasonable to stay at one and day trip to the other. It’s like half-an-hour on the train.

Two seaport cities of mixed ethnic and religious distribution, there’s relative harmony here. They’re cities but they’re more chill cities. I think it’s the mountains nearby; mountain folk are always good.

• Why it’s awesome: You get the beach, you get less crowds than in the centre, and you get mountains too! It’s literally the best of everything. Although nothing like Tel Aviv, Haifa has grown as hub for younger Israelis and you’ll find some cool stuff happening in the city. Hadar neighbourhood is a good start. Acre has a long history of being in a pretty strategic location so you’ll find some cool old-world goodness there.
• What to do there: A good daytrip from Haifa is the Mount Carmel National Park or you’ve also got the considerably impressive Bahai Gardens that overlook the city and port. (I didn’t even know that the Bahai were a thing until I got to Haifa – super interesting!) Acre stands as one of Israel’s more historical places to visit with landmarks that date back to middle-ages and that whole Crusades shebang. There’s the almost entirely Arabic old city which also means markets which ALSO means cheap coffee, tobacco, pita, and za’atar… Breakfast is served!
• If it strikes your fancy, there are lots of volunteering options in Haifa with Worldpackers, a reputable organisation where you can lend a helping hand in exchange for accomodation. Check out our Worldpackers review to see if an immersive work exchange in Haifa fits your bill.

#14 – Golan Heights – For views and other must-see sights in Israel.

• Lotsa nature!
• Different vibes again.

You want some nature? The Golan is full of it! Heading this far up north is much like heading all the way south: you’re well outside the urban areas of Israel now.

The Golan Heights is the region occupied by Israel during the Six-Day-War in 1967 and up this way you’ll meet many Syrian-Druze people many of which still hold no Israeli citizenship. Some are by choice, some are because of political tensions, it doesn’t matter – the whole situation is messy. The point is, it’s pretty!

• What it’s awesome: The Golan is a super beautiful place in Israel and a destination worth travelling too. Mountains and bits of greenery or, hell, you’ll even get snow at the right time in the right places! There are villages around for sure, and Israeli settlements too (not unpacking that dynamite-laced Pandora’s Box, thank you), but everything is much more spread out. This one is for the nature.
• What to do there: Odem is a good base. The Golan Heights Hostel is there which draws in a good vibe of traveller (you know the one I mean). For solo backpackers travelling in Israel especially, I’d say it’s second only to Me’ever. If you’re there in winter, and got the cash to flash, Mount Hermon is the best place to go in Israel for skiing! And also the only! And I use the word ‘best’ very loosely because it’s Israel and not exactly famed for skiing. Or, if you’re interested in the Syrian-Druze people and life, head to Madjal Shams below the majesty of Mount Hermon. Believe it or not, there’s a dope little arts scene!

#15 – Sea of Galilee – The top attraction of Israel’s Galilee region.

• Last of Israel’s three big bodies of water.
• This one is freshwater.
• And full of fish.

Yep, the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret) which is actually a freshwater lake (the Dead Sea is also a lake but shh ). There’s a number of  Israel’s other holy places to visit around the sea-lake given that this was kinda Jesus’s stomping ground.

• Why it’s awesome: Just a big ol’ pretty lake! There’s not much to say really. Swimming, kayaking, chasing the Jesus Trail, and everything else is here! There are mountains around, nature, kibbutzim, and all kinds of goodies.
• What to do there: Israel’s main tourist attraction on the sea of Galilee is Tiberias , which, naturally because this is Israel, has a number of holy sites. Alternatively, you could just do what I suggest which is skip the sacred-city stuff (sacred-old-city burnout is synonymous to temple burnout in Asia). Instead, just explore around the perimeter of the lake and you’ll find kibbutzim and other nice little pockets of prettiness to explore; HaOn is another good place to visit around Israel’s lying scumbag “sea”.

#16 – Hiking in Israel – Not a place to visit in Israel, strictly speaking.

Yep, so, this isn’t so much a place to travel to in Israel as a thing to do but it’s also one of my favourite things about the country (except, perhaps, for the abundance of cheap hummus and tahini). Israel is an extremely walkable country at the best of times (given how small it is) and the presence of a large variety of hiking trails only makes that better.

The Israel National Trail is the cross-country trek for those wanting the feather in their hat. Alternatively, just tackle stretches of it at your leisure.

There’s no shortage of other trails around, like the Jesus Trail I mentioned or even just loading up Maps.Me is gonna present you with a wealth of options. Hell, if you see something on the horizon worth walking to and all that lays between you is the fields of a kibbutz or moshav, just go for it. Yay for socialist ideals!

You don’t have to walk the whole damn country, but there’s really no better way to get out and experience some of Israel’s best places to see. You may also discover some of Israel’s hiding secrets. Maybe, you’ll even find the Messiah.

Dun dun dunnnnn.

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There are missiles, and terrorists, and enemies at our borders – won’t somebody think of the children!

Na, look, honestly, travelling in Israel has not felt anymore unsafe than most other places I’ve been in the world. Of course, Iran just swore vengeance upon Israel and I’m still here for another 5 days so lucky I got insurance!

Remember, when you are traveling, shit can happen, and that’s when you need insurance!

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Israel

What is the prettiest place in Israel?

In my opinion, Mitzpe Ramon is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Israel.

What should you not miss in Israel?

No trip to Israel would be complete without visiting Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

What is the most visited place in Israel?

Jerusalem Biblical Zoo is the most visited place to visit in Irsrael.

Is Israel a safe place to visit?

Israel is on the whole a safe place to visit but tourists should never let their gaurd down. You can read more about safety in Israel in our guide to safety in Tel Aviv .

I think we did it: an honest and fair list of the top places to visit in Israel that has a bit of everything. Nothing too contentious was said (I think) and, best of all, you now have yourself a neat little guide to Israel’s must-visit places!

It’s not always an easy country to travel – at least, it wasn’t for me. Things are jarring, many things are heartbreaking, and at times, it feels more illogical and chaotic than India. Just with nicer roads and better public transport.

Still, I can’t say I’m not grateful for visiting Israel and backpacking around it. Some of Israel’s places to visit will give you those wonderful sunset vibes. Some will be an excellent photo-op. Many will leave you with a lot to digest. Either way, you will learn and grow.

I said before and I’ll say it again. There are many beautiful things in Israel. There are a lot of good people in Israel. And there is a lot worth making the effort for.

Just make sure you see all of Israel. See all the things to see in Israel and write your own story through your own experience. And let there be hummus.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ziggy Samuels

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Main Israel Destinations and Tourist Attractions

Israel is a small but beautiful country filled with natural landscapes, wonderful beaches, and a fascinating history. With so many destinations, you may think planning a trip can be an overwhelming task. Don’t worry, though. We came up with this comprehensive travel guide to help you make the most of your visit to this wonderful country.

From Jerusalem to Tel Aviv, from deserts to beaches, we list down the main places to visit in Israel.

This city is the heart of the Holy Land. It’s where Jesus Christ died and came back to life, and where the Prophet Muhammad rose to heaven to receive the word of God. A visit to Jerusalem, for many believers, is a pilgrimage to one of the most sacred sites around the world. When you’re checking out this major Israeli destination, check out the following attractions:

1. Wailing Wall

Also known as the Western Wall, this tourist spot is the surviving retaining wall of the first temple of Jerusalem. People wailed in this wall to grieve the temple’s loss in AD 70. Today, it’s the holiest site for the Jewish people and a place of pilgrimage.

2. Via Dolorosa

Many Christian visitors see Via Dolorosa, also known as the Way of Sorrow, as a highlight of their visit to Jerusalem. The walk follows the route of Jesus as he carries his cross towards Mount Calvary. If you visit on a Friday, you may join the procession led by Italian Franciscan monks.

3. Temple Mount

Lauded by Muslims, Christians, and Jews, Temple Mount (or Haram Al-Sharif) is one of the holiest sanctuaries on Earth. This is where Abraham, the father of the three monotheistic faiths, offered his son Isaac as a sacrifice to God. It’s also where the Prophet Muhammad rose to heaven during his early years of preaching Islam.

4. Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Many Christian pilgrims view this Israeli tourist spot as the holiest site in Jerusalem, as they identify the site as the place of Jesus’ crucifixion. Empress Helena, the mother of Constantine the Great, chose the site as the main location of the church during her tour of the Holy Land . When you enter the church, you’ll find quarters owned by different Christian denominations as well as various holy relics.

5. Tower of David

King Herod erected this ancient citadel to protect the palace he built around 24 BC. When you enter the Tower of David, you’ll find a museum, which relays the story of Jerusalem. You can also enjoy a Sound and Light show during the evenings.

6. Mount Zion

This small hill situated south of the Zion Gate is home to Muslim and Jewish shrines. It is where you’ll find the tomb of King David. If you go up the stairs from the courtyard of the tomb, you’ll come across the Last Supper Room, which served as both a mosque and a church throughout its long history. Apart from the tomb, you can visit other historic One of these is the Church of the Dormition where the Blessed Virgin Mary passed away. Another is the Church of St. Peter of Gallicantu, where Peter denied Jesus.

7. Mount of Olives

Religious pilgrim travelers will find this Israeli tourist attraction filled with churches. At the top of the mount, you’ll see the Church of the Ascension, which offers spectacular views across Jerusalem. Walking down the slope, you’ll find the Church of the Pater Noster, erected near the site where Jesus instructed his disciples. Walk further down and you’ll come across the Church of Dominus Flevit where Jesus wept for Jerusalem. Besides the churches, you’ll find other major attractions, such as the Tomb of the Virgin Mary and the Gardens of Gethsemane, where the temple guards of the Sanhedrin arrested Jesus Christ.

8. Israel Museum

Different sections of the museum feature sacred Jewish art, a collection of works by Israeli painters, and exhibits from the early days of settlement. The museum also has a Shrine of the Book building that displays the country’s portion of the Dead Sea Scrolls.

9. Monastery of the Cross

Legend says that the Prophet Lot lived on the site where the medieval monastery stood. Additionally, people believed that the trees planted by Lot had provided the wood for the cross carried by Jesus Christ.

10. Mount Herzl

You’ll find the remains of Theodor Herzl, the founder of Zionism, on this site. This tourist attraction also features the Herzl Museum with a reconstruction of Herzl’s library and study.

11. Latrun Monastery

French Trappist Monks built the monastery in 1927. UK authorities had a reinforced police post during the British Mandate period. This post stood on the armistice line between Israel and Jordan. Today, living quarters and a large church sit on the monastery grounds.

12. Hill of Remembrance

Also known as Yad Vashem, the hill is home to the Hall of Remembrance, the first Holocaust commemoration site. The hall’s main building lists the names of Nazi death camps as well as an “eternal flame” to honor the memory of the dead. Opening off the main hall is a photo exhibition, children’s memorial, the names of the Holocaust victims, and works of art made by inmates from the concentration camps.

This city is Israel’s most modern metropolis. Many tourists visit Tel Aviv to soak up the sun, shop in a cutesy boutique, and enjoy delicious food at the city’s renowned restaurant and café scene. If you’re heading to Tel Aviv, drop by these destinations:

13. Yemenite Quarter

This tourist spot is one of the city’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. It’s full of alleyways lined by old-style architecture that withstood the gentrification of the area. If you’d like to enjoy an affordable meal, head to Carmel Market, a place that’s colorful, busy, and full of fresh produce.

14. Tel Aviv Beaches

Banana Beach, Frishman Beach, and Gordon Beach are just some of the popular sandy stretches that draw both tourists and locals. You’ll find excellent facilities, such as sun loungers, freshwater showers, and sunshades for rent.

15. Yitzhak Rabin Center

Named after former minister Yitzhak Rabin, this tourist spot is home to the Israel Museum. Visiting this center and museum lets you learn more about the history of Israel. You’ll also discover the life of Rabin from his early years right up to his assassination by Jewish terrorists.

16. Beit Hatefutsoth

This museum illustrates the culture and life of the Jewish people across the globe throughout history. It displays a wide range of exhibits, including models and film recordings, to record the world’s Jewish population through the centuries. It also features a Bob Dylan exhibit as well as exhibits devoted to the Ethiopian Jewish community.

17. Eretz Israel Museum

This attraction houses the Tell Qasile archaeological site, a planetarium, and pavilions with displays on folklore, ethnography, science, history of writing, glass, and ceramics.

18. Tel Aviv Museum of Art

This art museum contains works by Jackson Pollock, Picasso, Henry Moore, Van Gogh, Monet, Degas, and the world’s biggest collection of artwork by Israeli artists. Its sophisticated architecture perfectly showcases and highlights its artworks.

19. Bialik Street

This street has three historical houses that will pique the interest of individuals who love culture and history. First is the Beit Ha’ir, which displays the history of Tel Aviv. Second is the Bialik House, which highlights the life and works of poet Chaim Nachman Bialik. Last is the Rubin Museum, which used to be the house of artist Reuven Rubin. The museum houses paintings and old photos of Tel Aviv.

20. Dizengoff Circle

This tourist attraction features a Fire and Water Fountain, a peculiar modern art designed by Israeli artist Yaacov Agam. It’s also home to the Habima Theater, the cultural center of Tel Aviv, and the Helena Rubinstein Pavilion of Contemporary Art.

21. Rothschild Boulevard

If you’re looking for a great place to stroll in the early evening, visit this central city street. Along the road, you’ll come across the Independence Hall, the former residence of the first mayor of Tel Aviv. You’ll also find the Haganah Museum, which documents the activities of the Haganah guerrilla force.

22. Netanya

This seaside resort city has a golden sand beach that extends for more than 10 kilometers. Locals flock to this major attraction during sunny weekends to have a good time with friends and family. If you don’t like Tel Aviv’s big-city vibe and prefer a quieter alternative, Netanya is for you.

Considered as the undisputed holiday capital of Israel, Eilat offers visitors with a spectacular combination of a beautiful bay and a mountainous desert landscape. It’s also home to dozens of shopping centers, restaurants, hotels, clubs, and bars. When you’re stopping by this city, here are some of the attractions you can check out:

23. Coral Beach Underwater Observatory

Science and aquarium lovers will love this tourist spot, as it includes 40 fish tanks, a shark pool, a stingray and sea turtle pool, a nature museum, and underwater observatories. There’s even a darkroom designed specifically for the flashlight fish, a bioluminescent animal that has glowing bacteria under their eyes.

24. Mount Zefahot Trail

This circular hiking trail is an opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views over Eilat, the Sinai Peninsula, and the town of Aqaba. If you plan to hike this trail, it’s best to do so early in the morning to avoid the day’s scorching heat.

25. King’s City Theme Park

If your kids are getting bored of the sand and sun, visit this theme park with a unique Holy Land twist. The rides have a historical theme.

26. Ice Space

This wacky tourist attraction throws you from the desert into the freezing Arctic. As you check out the ice sculptures on display, you’ll find that the temperature inside is at a constant -7°C. This blissfully cold treat may be just what you need after exploring the desert.

27. Dolphin Reef

This tourist spot is the place to go if you feel like snorkeling with dolphins. You can interact with a group of bottlenose dolphins that live just offshore by signing up for a tour. Alternatively, you can watch the dolphins from dry land through one of the observation decks.

28. Red Canyon

Nature lovers and hikers who want a taste of adventure but have no time to explore the desert scenery further may visit the Red Canyon. It has a well-marked trail that leads to the canyon’s red-tinged rock.

29. Hai-Bar Nature Reserve

This expansive 10,000-acre park is home to various wildlife, including ostriches, hyenas, antelopes, and other creatures of the desert. The goal of this reserve is to populate the area with animals that lived here since ancient times.

This location is popular with pilgrim travelers, as Jesus Christ carried out much of his ministry work in this area. It’s also popular with tourists who want to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. When going to Galilee, don’t miss visiting these tourist sites.

30. Sea of Galilee

This turquoise and magical body of water is Israel’s greatest national treasure. It holds major religious significance as well as touristic value due to the beauty of its surroundings.

31. Nazareth

This place once served as the village of Jesus’ youth. Today, it’s a modern city and an important center for the Arab community of Israel. Some of the religious sites you’ll find are the Basilica of the Annunciation, the Basilica of Jesus the Adolescent, and St. Joseph’s Church.

32. Bar’am National Park

This park includes the remains of a 4th- to 5th-century synagogue and the ancient village of Bar’am. You can visit the graves said to be those of Mordechai and Queen Esther at the Bar’am Forest.

33. Safad (Tsfat)

This mountain city located northeast of the Sea of Galilee has been a center for Jewish mysticism and scholarship since the 15th century.

This region offers a lot of beautiful desert scenery and ancient ruins. It’s a prime tourist destination for people who appreciate natural beauty. The attractions you’ll see here include:

34. Sde Boker

The main attraction in this kibbutz is Ben-Gurion’s House. This attraction showcases an interesting collection of black-and-white photos and original documents and letters written by David Ben-Gurion, the primary national founder and first Prime Minister of Israel.

35. Makhtesh Ramon

This geological feature is a paradise for geologists, as it features rock formations and fossils dating as far back as 220 million years.

36. Mampsis

Ancient Mampsis, along with its remarkable ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A few of the structures you’ll come across here are the West Church, the East Church dedicated to Holy Martyrs, and the ruins of a British Mandate police post.

37. En Avdat

This area has a spring in the middle of a barren upland region. Ibexes, which are wild goats with thick-ridged horns, live in this area to drink water from the spring.

You’ll find the Church of St. Theodore in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church is a three-aisled basilica dedicated to a fourth-century Greek martyr.

39. Museum of Bedouin Culture

This museum displays an intriguing ethnographic collection, which includes exhibits of silver jewelry, agricultural and domestic equipment, clothing and other textiles, and various everyday objects. Individuals interested in nomadic cultures should drop by this museum.

40. Be’er Sheva

Known as the city of the Patriarchs in the Old Testament, Be’er Sheva is one of the biggest cities in the country. Some of the main tourist attractions you should visit are Abraham’s Well, the Museum of Negev Art, and the Thursday Bedouin Market.

41. Nitzana

This Nabataean town has a church with a mosaic pavement. Check out the Nitzana National Park established along the spice route.

This location is home to the well-preserved ruins of a Byzantine city with paved streets, water cisterns, dwellings, and monastic church.

Haifa is a lively port city with steep cliffs that make the area beautiful. It has excellent art museums, holy shrines, beautiful gardens, and fantastic views that you’ll surely enjoy. If you’re planning to have an enjoyable time in Haifa, make sure to visit the following attractions:

42. Caesarea

This tourist spot is one of the country’s most fascinating ancient sites. Among the attraction’s highlights are the ancient aqueduct, Roman Theater, and the remains of the Crusader city.

43. Elijah’s Cave

Believers say that the Prophet Elijah hid in this cave after killing the Ba’al priests. Remember to dress modestly when visiting this place to give respect to pilgrims who hold the prophet in high regard.

44. Mount Carmel

This area is where you’ll find the Carmelite Monastery of St. Elijah. It’s also where Elijah established an altar during his conflict with the Ba’al priests.

45. Haifa Cable Car

This is an easy and fun way to get to the Stella Maris Carmelite Monastery. Riding this transportation lets you enjoy the breathtaking panoramic vistas.

46. Baha’i Shrine and Gardens

The shrine serves as the landmark monument of Haifa. It contains the tomb of Mirza Al Mohammed, the founder of the Baha’i faith. Besides the shrine, you’ll see terraced gardens that show an outstanding example of garden landscaping.

47. University Museums

You’ll find several attractions that make sightseeing enjoyable. One museum is the Reuben and Edith Hecht Museum, which highlights Jewish history in the Holy Land pre-Diaspora. If you’re looking for great views, the Eshkol Tower offers excellent panoramic views across the city.

48. National Maritime Museum

The museum features a collection of charts, maps, and model ships that show the history of seafaring in the Mediterranean. People interested in maritime history will surely enjoy this visit.

49. Beit Shearim

This captivating archaeological site is famous for its impressive catacombs.

50. Ursula Malbin Sculpture Park

If you need to relax from all the sightseeing, this would be the perfect place. The public park has many beautiful bronze statues made by Ursula Malbin.

With so many tourist spots in Israel, you’ll never run out of things to do and attractions to enjoy. So, go ahead and book your next trip to enjoy the beauty that the country offers.

For a detailed information about traveling to Israel, read our page  A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Israel .

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Israel Bucket List: Top Tourist Attractions in Israel

Your Israel bucket list should include all the best and most visited Israel tourist attractions . The country may be small, but there is a lot to cover. With a history going back thousands of years, there are must-see archaeological sites and ancient structures. The Promised Land is home to a wealth of religious sites that should also be on your Israel bucket list. Discover Israel’s natural wonders, the vibrant urban culture, and its endless beaches. It is a travel destination with something for everyone. Start planning your trip today by adding these top attractions to your Israel bucket list.

Explore Israel’s Historical and Archaeological Sites

Jaffa Port. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

• Jerusalem Old City   - This is without a doubt the highlight of any Israel bucket list. Within the walled city are unforgettable sacred sites one can enjoy with or without a guided tour . The Old City is the number one must-see attraction in Israel.
• Western Wall   - A visit to the Western Wall in Jerusalem is an unforgettable experience and a must-do for every  Jerusalem tour. This remarkable ancient wall is the most sacred Jewish site in the world.
• Western Wall Tunnels   - The Western Wall continues beneath the Old City of Jerusalem. Join a  tour  and discover the hidden section of this 2,000-year-old wall.
• City of David   - On the City of David Jerusalem Tour you’ll explore the excavated city built by King David and see unbelievable ancient water channels.
• Caesarea - Here King Herod built an impressive port city with a hippodrome, palaces, temples, and an amphitheater you can still see on a Ceasarea tour , that today hosts performances by major artists.
• Acre Old City   - This remarkable Old City has an awe-inspiring underground Crusader city. Visitors say that Acre is one of the most unforgettable experiences in Israel.
• Tower of David - Today the ancient citadel houses the Tower of David Museum which traces the history of Jerusalem through archaeological artifacts.

Discover Breathtaking Nature Reserves and National Parks in Israel

There are over 400 nature reserves and over 80 national parks in Israel. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll be enchanted by the diverse landscapes, from lush green farmlands and forests in the north to barren deserts in the south. Follow the many hike trails through spectacular scenery and tour unique natural wonders.

Masada. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

• Masada   - You can explore the dramatic 2,000-year-old fortress built on Masada’s plateau summit on one of the guided Masada tours . The view from the summit across the Dead Sea is spectacular.
• Ein Gedi - Nestled among the cliffs of the Judean Desert is the Ein Gedi oasis. Here there are picturesque waterfalls and natural springs flow through thick vegetation. 
• Beit Guvrin - This remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site holds hidden caves, ancient Roman quarries, burial tombs, and the remains of the Biblical city of Maresha.
• Tel Megiddo   - The archaeological mound of Megiddo is the traditional site of Armageddon. Don’t miss the chance to explore this incredible archaeological site.
• Mamshit   - At Mamshit National Park you can see the remains of an awe-inspiring Nabatean city that used to be a stop along the ancient Incense Route.
• Timna Park - Discover the wonders of Timna Park in southern Arava. The park has archaeological remains and rock formations that have to be seen to be believed. 
• Banias  - This nature reserve in northern Israel has jaw-dropping scenery. The heavenly surroundings include Israel’s largest waterfall, streams, and woodlands one can see on Galilee and Golan Heights tour .

Ready for the Best Beach Resort in the Middle East?

The Dead Sea resort. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

• Tel Aviv Beaches stretch for 14 kms along Israel’s Mediterranean coast. A wide promenade runs parallel to the sand, and there are plenty of beachfront amenities. Alma Beach is where you can hang out with hipsters. Gordon Beach has volleyball courts and a saltwater swimming pool. Frishman Beach is a favorite with families. Bograshov Beach is often crowded with people enjoying beach activities and Hilton Beach is popular with the LGBT community.
• Dead Sea Beaches are a completely unique experience; there is nothing like it in the world. The Dead Sea Relaxation tour gives you time on one of the Dead Sea’s best beaches. The Dead Sea should be on every tourist’s Israel bucket list. Kalia Beach has facilities and a beach bar. Biankini Beach is famed for its traditional Moroccan restaurant. Neve Midbar Beach is a quiet beach frequented by a young crowd. Ein Gedi Public Beach has a campground and Ein Bokek Beach stretches out in front of the top Dead Sea hotels. 
• Eilat Beaches are definitely the place to go for fun in the sun. Eilat offers water sports, top resort hotels, and an incredible waterfront. Bar Beach is popular for snorkeling and diving. Nine Beach is a trendy beach with a lounge bar and music. Kishuski Beach is best if you want to do water sports. Dekel Beach is great for the whole family. Mosh Beach is the “in” place for tourists yearning for the beaches of Goa. Dolphin Reef Beach is a full-service beach with a restaurant on the sand, and an enclosure where you can see dolphins coming and going from the open sea. You can even swim with the dolphins.

The Land of Milk and Honey plus Falafel, Hummus and Wine

No one will blame you for putting on a few pounds when you visit Israel. The country’s local cuisine is a melting pot of flavors. Indulge in mouthwatering street food, and splurge on fine dining in Israel’s top chef restaurants. Discover the delights of Israeli cuisine on a Carmel Market Food Tour  or visit Jerusalem’s Mahane Yehuda Market . Israel’s food scene includes kosher and non-kosher eateries. Satisfy your taste-buds with must-try Israeli foods like:

A plate of hummus, a traditional Middle Eastern spread

• Sabich - “Sabich” is a traditional Iraqi Jewish pita sandwich stuffed with fried aubergine (eggplant), hard-boiled egg, potato, herbs, spices, salad, and tahini or hummus. 
• Malabi - a dreamy, creamy milk-based pudding with roots in Persia. The basic ingredients are rice, sugar, rice flour, and milk.
• Knafeh - a classic dessert from the Arab kitchen. Sweet pastry is soaked in syrup, layered with cheese, and flavored with rose water. A legend tells that the dish was prescribed by doctors, to satisfy the hunger of caliphs during Ramadan. 
• Hummus - a popular Israeli street food made from chickpeas. Try the best Tel Aviv hummus on an Israel Street Food Tour .
• Falafel - a classic Israeli street food of deep-fried chickpea balls. It is just one of the many vegan foods in Israel. Israel has even been called the most vegan-friendly country in the world.
• Wineries - Israel has hundreds of wineries ranging from large enterprises to small boutique family companies. Spoil yourself with a wine tour or include wine tasting in a private Golan Heights Tour. Some top Israeli wineries include the Golan Heights Winery, the Tishbi Winery in the quaint town of Zichron Yaakov , and the Carmel Winery founded in 1882.

Israel's Top Museum’s and Cultural Venues

Israel’s multi-cultural society means diverse theater, music, and dance. There are many museums packed with treasures that include works by world-famous artists and celebrated local talents. Learn about the country’s history and culture and see exhibits from foreign cultures in Israel’s diverse museums.

• Dance - See performances by the world-renowned Batsheva Dance Company at the Suzanne Dellal Center and attend the Israel Ballet. Mayumana combines dance, music, and acrobatics.
• Art Museums - The Tel Aviv Museum of Art is the country’s largest art museum, with an impressive collection. The Jerusalem Israel Museum is Israel’s most important museum. 
• Cultural Museums - Yad Vashem is the country’s Holocaust museum and memorial in Jerusalem. You can visit this museum on a Jerusalem Old and New Tour. The Haifa Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art promotes Japanese culture. 
• Performance  - Habima Theater is the country’s national theatre. Gesher Theater was founded by Russian immigrants. The Cameri Theater is housed in the Tel Aviv Performing Arts Center.
• Music  - Classical concerts can be seen at the Charles Bronfman Auditorium and the Felicja Blumenthal Center. The Israeli Chamber Orchestra performs at the Enav Cultural Center. 

Add Some Exciting Experiences to Your Israel Bucket List

 Bahai Gardens in Haifa. Photo credit: © Shutterstock

Here are some fun attractions and activities available in Israel: 

• The Baha’i Gardens are breathtaking landscaped gardens that roll down the slope of Mount Carmel in Haifa. The colorful gardens are home to the Shrine of the Bab.
• Rosh HaNikra cave system is close to the Lebanese border. The stunning white limestone sea caves can be reached by cable car. 
• Mitzpe Ramon is a settlement in the Negev Desert, near the massive Ramon Crater. Mitzpe Ramon is a popular place for stargazing, thanks to the clear desert skies.
• Shvil Israel is the National Trail that crosses the entire country from north to south. Hiking enthusiasts will love this picturesque trail that passes through a variety of landscapes.

What’s on Your Israel Bucket List?

Get your Israel bucket list ready and start planning your trip to the Holy Land. Whether you’re passionate about history, a nature lover, looking for a trendy urban experience, or if you just want some fun in the sun, Israel has something for everyone. Israel tourist attractions will tick all the boxes for the perfect getaway. Go ahead, treat yourself to an adventure in Israel.

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Israel in Pictures: 19 Beautiful Places to Photograph

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated Mar 30, 2022

When it comes to photogenic destinations, Israel is certainly near the top of the world list. This tiny Middle Eastern country is filled with an incredible range of photographic environments, from the ancient alleyways of Jerusalem to the Martian-like landscapes of the Negev Desert.

Israel offers a wide range of photo subjects, from the history of places like the Old City of Jerusalem to the ruins of ancient towns like Avdat and Caesaria. There is modern beauty here as well – the resort beachfront of Tel Aviv and its modern skyscrapers serve as perfect subjects for photographers.

1. Jerusalem

2. the western wall, 3. the dome of the rock, 4. the dead sea, 7. herodium, 8. tel aviv, 9. caesaria, 11. makhtesh ramon, 12. ein gedi nature reserve, 13. church of the holy sepulchre, 16. pool of the arches, 17. hulda sunflower fields, 18. be'er tuvia buttercup festival, 19. red canyon.

A holy place for Muslims, Jews, and Christians, Jerusalem is a fascinating place to visit and photograph. A good perspective of the walled Old City and the Temple Mount can be seen from atop the Mount of Olives. The observation area is known as the Gandhi Overlook and allows a wide perspective of the entire city skyline, old and new.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jerusalem

Believed to be the last remaining part of the sacred Jewish temple complex referred to in the Bible, this site is a pilgrimage site for those of the Jewish faith. If you climb up the stairs to some of the terraces of the building complex opposite the Wall, you can get a wide perspective of the entire site, including the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount above.

Visible from its prominent position atop the Haram al-Sharif (Temple Mount), this Islamic shrine is known as a place of worship and for its geographic religious significance. Visually and architecturally, it's a beautiful building with an incredible golden dome, one of the oldest, existing examples of Islamic architecture in the world.

The lowest land point on Earth , the shore of the Dead Sea is part resort, part health clinic, and all geologic wonder. There's a row of resorts on the Israeli shore and more resorts on the Jordanian shore across the sea. The flat, smooth shimmering water along with the striking colors, caused by mineral deposits, make for great photographs. The land around the Dead Sea is also beautiful, filled with towers and other geologic forms, much uncovered as the water level has declined.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Dead Sea Region

This mountaintop fortress continues to hold a prominent place in the hearts of Israelis and Jewish people. It was the site of a legendary uprising and siege during the time of Ancient Rome. Today, it's one of Israel's biggest tourist attractions , about a 90-minute drive from Jerusalem.

You can get some good, overall perspectives from the highway, Route 90, as you approach the huge site. Once at the top of the mountain, there are epic vistas in every direction.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Masada

The ancient Nabateans are best known for their incredible rock city of Petra carved in a canyon in Jordan. Their network of incense trading routes extended through modern-day Israel, and the town of Avdat was an important stop on that trade route between Petra and the Mediterranean. You can visit the Avdat ruins, which include a Nabatean temple and an ancient Byzantine church.

The impact of King Herod can still be seen across Israel (Masada was constructed under his rule). Herodium is the ruin of his ancient hilltop palace/fortress, built into the top of a mountain he had constructed.

There are two parts to the complex: the underground palace structure at the top of the hill, which includes a theater, various rooms, and huge cisterns to store water, as well as a lower pleasure complex. The lower complex includes a large pool and bathing area, surrounded by columns. Herodium is about 12 kilometers south of Jerusalem.

Israel's largest city is a modern metropolis. There are some incredible opportunities for architectural photography here, as the city is filled with incredible buildings. There are some beautiful modern skyscrapers, as well as a huge collection of Bauhaus architecture from the 1920s-1940s. The city sits on a long, curving stretch of beachfront, and there are also some great photo opportunities there.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tel Aviv

Caesarea is an Ancient Roman Mediterranean seaport on the northern Israeli coast. It was the capital of what was then the Roman province of Judea and retains many ruins and structures from the era. The remains of the Roman port exist, as does a large amphitheater. The dramatic seaside location makes for great photography with the blue Mediterranean Sea in the background.

Jaffa is the Old City seafront area of Tel Aviv. It's the original city, dating back thousands of years, and modern Tel Aviv has grown around it. The area retains ancient alleyways and buildings along with a beautiful seafront and harbor area.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jaffa

For some incredible photographs, head to one of Israel's makhteshes. These are giant semi-spherical zones of erosion, first thought to be volcanoes or meteorite craters. Makhtesh Ramon is the core of the Ramon Nature Reserve, which includes the surrounding landscape. The giant crater-shaped landform is 40 kilometers long and two to 10 kilometers wide with a depth of almost 500 meters. You can hike in the makhtesh but the best way to see and photograph it is to take a jeep tour.

This national park is an oasis in the Judean Desert, located near the Dead Sea and Masada. Ein Gedi has its own unique ecosystem due to its natural water sources. It's one of the country's most popular hiking spots and gives visitors a chance to take some great wildlife photographs. The reserve includes many animal inhabitants who are quite used to visitors.

The highlight is a tall waterfall, falling into a pond of clear water (swimming is allowed). The entire setting is within a rock canyon. Also, you can get some great photos of the Dead Sea from some of the hiking trails along the mountaintop.

This sacred Christian church rewards visitors with a deeply spiritual experience due to its religious significance. Outside, the ancient architecture of the church is a great place for photographs. Inside, the dome and dark-colored marble make great subjects for available light shots.

Some areas of the church are lit by candlelight. The church is part of Jerusalem's Old City and the Via Dolorosa.

• Read More: Exploring the Church of the Holy Sepulchre: A Visitor's Guide

This southern Israeli city is a resort town on the Red Sea. It's a popular diving destination and has some incredibly clear, blue water. It's a great place for beach and nature photography and one of the best places in the world for underwater photography. There are underwater trails, marked by buoys, that take divers (and snorkelers) through fish-filled coral reefs.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Eilat

Israel's third largest city is a Mediterranean port on the northern coast of the country. The city is at the base of Mount Carmel, and many areas offer amazing views of the sea. Haifa is home to the Shrine of the Bab, a center of the Bahai faith, and its spectacular hanging gardens of terraces with Greco-Roman buildings, columns, and statues.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Haifa

This massive underground cistern, built to store water, was constructed in 789. It's so big, you can tour it by rowboat. The rows and rows of arches and other medieval and Islamic design elements make it a great spot for photos. It's in Ramla, a suburb of Tel Aviv.

This place for photos is best visited between mid-May and mid-June, when the fields of yellow sunflowers are in bloom. The fields are part of the Hulda kibbutz (communal farm) in central Israel.

Another flower-related place to photograph in Israel is the town of Be'er Tuvia and their annual buttercup festival. The festival happens every weekend in April, until the bloom stops. You will see vast rows of yellow, pink, red, and white buttercups.

It's open to the public on weekends and holidays; arrive early for some private time to get the best photos.

This beautiful gorge near Eilat has canyons with tall, rounded walls. The colors are striking; many are deep shades of red. It's a great place for nature and outdoor photos. The canyon is easy to hike, making it easy to access for many photographers.

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Israel Tourist Attractions – Top 5 Must See!

These 5 Israel tourist attractions should be at the top of your list when visiting Israel! Sites like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and the Dead Sea are must-see iconic destinations.

Getting to see all of the Israel tourist attractions was incredible. To see and experience all these places I’d learned about in school, in religious studies, genuinely felt miraculous.

There was just something about being in the Holy Land, and being around others who’d sacrificed to come on this pilgrimage that meant so much to them.

I don’t count myself as a religious person, but I’m definitely interested in all religions and have an A-Level in Religious Studies (Christianity and Islam) to prove it. And so my trip to Israel was just fascinating.

Israel isn’t just an incredible country because of its tourist attractions and history though. The modern developments and amazing array of natural and manmade things to do there make it one of my favorite countries for activity and culture too.

Here are the five activities in Israel you should absolutely do on your trip to make sure you have a great time and hit all of the big Israel tourist spots.

1. What to see in Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is a super cool city with a beach, summed up in a sentence. There are really cool shops, bars, and restaurants and it’s just got that cool vibe similar to Barcelona or Lisbon, drawing you in.

Most flights to Israel come into Tel Aviv so it’s a great place to start your trip and visit the tourist spots in Israel.

Make sure to visit Jaffa – for even more cool vibes, and hipster bars. The flea markets in Jaffa (Sunday market) are also a must to visit. This is a great spot to pick up some souvenirs from Israel .

Yarkon Park, the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, and the Bialik House are all iconic tourist spots for visitors too.

Mainly though, depending on what you like, the beaches and the bars.

2. See the Old City of Jerusalem

You absolutely cannot visit Israel without going to the Old City of Jerusalem, within Jerusalem. I spent the day there and went to the Mount of Olives, saw the Wailing Wall, and wandered the fascinating streets.

There is SO much incredible history around here, it was amazing to see the actual place names I’d grown up learning in my religious studies.

You really need to go to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre too. It’s the most important church in the world for Christians and Jews as it’s where it’s believed Jesus was crucified.

Make sure to go to the super cool Machane Yehuda Market too. You’re going to love the food in Israel by the way, there’s a real multicultural scene there to enjoy.

3. Explore Galilee

One of my favorite activities in Israel was ATV driving around Galilee. It was one of the best experiences of my life. It was awesome!

We were out for hours and drove around Upper Galilee, the Hula Lake, the Jordan River, and a few hidden caves and brooks the average eye would never find. Our leader let us go SO fast, I loved it.

Galilee is where Jesus is said to have walked on water. Visit and I’m afraid you won’t find Jesus, but you will find beautiful lush landscapes with historic sites, and quaint rural villages. A beautiful contrast with Tel Aviv.

Just a few centimeters from the precipice of the hills of Galilee, my ATV guide was encouraging me to climb higher. I was now responsible not only for myself and the vehicle but also my new friend Jodie who’d placed her trust in me for survival. The range of expletives coming from my mouth showed her this was a silly decision.

I was attempting to traverse the boulders and rocks in the way of me reaching my guide while the epic drop was threatening me below. I swear the rocks were bigger than it shows on the video, I just didn’t film that bit.

Going ATV driving in Galilee was definitely one of the most exhilarating things I did on my trip to Israel. I’ve driven on the sand dunes in Egypt but this was something else .

I got up to 80km/h in my race with our guide and definitely could’ve beaten him if I was just a touch more competitive. Which I’m not.

As you can see from my little film, I was filthy and covered in dust by the end, but happy and feeling free.

READ MORE: How to Spend a Week in Jordan

4. Float in the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is famous as the Earth’s lowest place on land, it’s also famous for where you can float on top of the Dead Sea waters as they’re so salty, they’re buoyant.

The water there is said to have healing powers as it’s so full of minerals. The Dead Sea in Israel is one of the most famous tourist sites. Unfortunately, when I visited I didn’t make it here, but it’ll be number one on my list for my next visit to Israel.

Floating in the Dead Sea is a dream!

5. Visit The Eilat Underwater Observatory

Eilat is on the Red Sea, one of the absolute best places to visit if you like snorkeling and scuba diving.

Visit Eilat in Israel and you’ll see colorful coral reefs and beautiful fish swimming right on by.

If you’re a bit nervous about going in the water by yourself, then check out the impressive Eilat underwater observatory, where everyone can find Nemo, (or a similar fish).

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

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More From Forbes

Israel tourism: a 2023 guide to visiting the holy land.

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A scuba diver in the Red Sea.

When Vered DeLeeuw visits Israel next month, she'll be hitting all the usual places — and one unusual one.

"We're headed to Jerusalem and Tel Aviv," says DeLeeuw, a food blogger from San Francisco. "But this year, since we'll be visiting in the winter, we'll also visit the Dead Sea, where summers are oppressively hot, but winters are mild and dry."

She's already been warned about swimming in the Dead Sea, where salinity levels reach 34 percent (as opposed to 3.5 percent in the ocean).

“You can't go in the water if you have a scratch or even a tiny wound — it's painful because of the salt,” she says.

As Israel looks to the 2023 travel season, more tourists like DeLeeuw are on their way. They want to experience the signature destinations such as Jerusalem and Tel Aviv — and some places you've probably never heard of.

An American couple I met while touring the tunnels under the Western Wall in Jerusalem had the typical 2023 itinerary: nine days in the Holy Land, all the big attractions, plus scuba diving in the Red Sea. Did you know you could dive in the Red Sea?

People relaxing on Herzliya Beach, Tel Aviv,Israel

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Best covid travel insurance plans, next year could break records for israel tourism.

Gal Hana, the consul of tourism to Canada for the Israel Ministry of Tourism , says inbound tourism from North America reached about 70 percent of 2019 levels this year. Israel lifted the last of the pandemic travel restrictions in early fall.

"We anticipate that 2023 will exceed 2019 tourist numbers," he adds.

Ben Julius, Founder of Tourist Israel , projects the 2023 season may even exceed the 2019 one. "We're seeing an overall 10% to 20% higher demand in 2023 for inbound trips compared to 2019," he says. "There are more flight routes and frequencies from the U.S., including daily flights from Miami with American, and new routes from Boston and Atlanta with Delta, which means more connectivity and options."

Tourism officials they are are excited about 2023.

“The United States is our top market for inbound tourism to Israel,” says Eyal Carlin, tourism commissioner for North America. “Before the COVID-19 pandemic, we were celebrating record-breaking tourism entry numbers month after month. We’re so happy to see such a positive shift and expect a continued upward trajectory for months and years to come.”

So, where should you go if you visit the Holy Land in 2023? And what's the best time to visit?

Gura Berger, a spokeswoman for the East Jerusalem Development Company, shows off a new app for ... [+] visually impaired visitors to Jerusalem

New infrastructure in Jerusalem

Jerusalem is a must-see for anyone visiting Israel, with numerous holy sites ranging from the Western Wall to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Jerusalem has quietly undertaken an infrastructure improvement project during the pandemic, adding new ramps for guests with mobility challenges and fixing lighting and utility boxes in the city.

Gura Berger, a spokeswoman for the East Jerusalem Development Company , says the project will make the city more accessible to people who otherwise wouldn't have been able to see these sacred places. The improvements are subtle. Jerusalem still has narrow, cobblestone streets that fill up with religious tourists every day, but now you also see strollers and wheelchairs using the ramps on their way to the Dome of the Rock. Jerusalem also has a new smartphone app ( Apple and Android ) that lets visually impaired visitors navigate the city.

Three mountain bikers on a singletrack on a ledge, high above Makhtesh Ramon in the Negev desert.

Negev is on the tourism map

Hana says a typical 2023 Israel itinerary might include the Negev desert in the southern part of the country, which Israel has been developing for the last two years. "In this region, they include a visit to the Dead Sea area, with a new fully accessible promenade, and the most unique natural spa in the lowest point in the world," she adds.

Jessica Echenberg, destination lead for Kensington Tours , describes the Negev area as an up-and-coming destination.

"The Six Senses and the Beresheet Hotel are two beautiful properties for some downtime at the end of a hectic trip," she says. "The Negev offers hiking, canyoning, stargazing, and wellness options such as yoga."

Old town and port of Jaffa and modern skyline of Tel Aviv city, Israel

Tel Aviv adds new hotels — and more

Tel Aviv has opened an almost unprecedented number of new hotels, including the David Hotel Kempinski , and boutique properties such as Theodor by Brown Hotels and the Alberto Tel Aviv .

Jason Gardner, the sales manager for incoming tourism at Isrotel (which owns the Alberto), says Americans are coming to Tel Aviv for longer stays and having an urban experience, like shopping in one of the markets or visiting Jaffa. "Tel Aviv used to be the place people flew into, and from there, they went to Jerusalem," he says. "Now they are starting their trip in Tel Aviv and spending a few days here." That's giving the city a chance to show off its many cultural attractions — and, of course, there's also the famous beach.

Igal Zeevi, a tour guide who works in Tel Aviv , says the city has attracted younger visitors eager to explore areas such as historic Old Jaffa. There's also interest in Tel Aviv's architectural heritage, particularly its thousands of Bauhaus-inspired buildings built during the 1930s and 40s.

"I think people are surprised when they come here," he says.

Tel Aviv is also gaining a reputation as a culinary destination. I met up with Adeena Sussman, author of Sababa: Fresh, Sunny Flavors from My Israeli Kitchen , while I was in the city last month. She told me an increasing number of visitors are drawn to Tel Aviv’s markets such as Shuk HaCarmel and the Levinsky Spice Market. Here, artisans are developing a new Israel-inspired cuisine that go far beyond the standard Middle Eastern fare of falafel and houmous. One of the highlights was visiting with Benny Brigga, who co-authored a book with Sussman on gazos, a carbonated nonalcoholic drink.

Medieval harbour of Akko, Israel.

Other "hot tickets" in Israel

Jeff Rubtchinsky, CEO of Ayelet Tours , says another "hot ticket" is Akko, a small town north of Haifa. "This town has always been a model of peaceful coexistence between the Jewish and Arab communities, which live side by side," he says. "If travelers are looking for a place to challenge their preconceived notions of how different faiths view each other in Israel, they can do so here. After an escalation of hostilities in the summer of 2020, the locals have come together to rebuild and reinforce those bonds."

But Rubtchinsky says there's more to this city, including vibrant artistic and culinary scenes. For example, a world-famous eatery, Uri Buri, damaged in that 2020 flare-up, has been rebuilt. Among the other must-visit sites are a mosaic-covered Tunisian synagogue and the El-Jazaar mosque, the second-holiest in Israel.

"The Akko Bahai Gardens — not to be mistaken with the cascading Baha'i gardens of Haifa — are also a treat," he says.

A plane lands in Eliat, Israel.

Is Israel safe to visit?

Crime is relatively low in Israel, according to John Gobbels, chief operating officer for Medjet , an air medical transport membership program for travelers.

"Most of the tourist locations like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Eilat and the Dead Sea are considered quite safe," he says. "But terrorism is still a concern."

Gobbels says it's best to stay off crowded public transportation, which Palestinian groups have targeted since the early 90s. And always remain vigilant in crowded tourist locations and at large events.

"The West Bank and Gaza Strip are not safe at all, due to terrorism and civil unrest, so do not go," he warns. "Do not go to any areas that border Syria, Lebanon or Egypt either, since there's a high risk of both terrorism and being kidnapped in those areas."

Jerusalem in winter.

When is the best time to visit Israel?

Geoffrey Weill, an expert on Israel travel, recommends scheduling your trip to Israel between March and June and from September to December. Avoid summer and winter.

"The summer is crowded and very hot," he says. It's not uncommon to see snow in January and February.

For 2023, the situation is a little different. Eitan Sasson, a representative for the Israeli hotel chain Dan Hotels , says early bookings suggest they will be "exceptionally busy" from March through late November.

"Also, 2023 is Israel's 75th year of independence," says Sasson. "We anticipate many tourists coming to Israel to be a part of the celebrations throughout the year."

So if you want to save a little money — but don't mind the cold — Sasson recommends January or February for a visit, at least in 2023.

You'll want to give yourself plenty of time. My last visit to Israel lasted just four days — barely enough time to see Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. When I told travel expert Lauren Gumport, an American who has lived in Tel Aviv for the last eight years, she reacted the same way everyone else did: "That's not enough time."

Visit the historical sites, she told me. But then, see the rest of the country.

"For example, many newcomers to Israel aren't aware of the country's flourishing wine scene," she says. "From north to the east to the south, you can enjoy burgeoning wineries that are becoming increasingly popular worldwide."

Most of the travel experts I spoke with recommend at least nine days to see all of the historically significant sites and then go diving, wine tasting or participate in an architectural tour. (Here’s my complete guide to planning a trip .) But a destination like Israel demands even more time — at least two weeks. I’m planning at least a month for my next trip to Israel.

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This Unique History Museum Is One Of Norway's Top-Rated Tourist Attractions

N orway is quite a wilderness paradise , from its fjords on the coast to its Jotunheimen National Park for a mountain escape . However, city slickers and European history buffs can find plenty of enjoyment in Norway's capital and biggest city, Oslo. Oslo showcases Norway's popular Viking history through multiple museums near the city center, but this Scandinavian capital has plenty more to offer. A unique and specific museum also in the city center focuses on artifacts much smaller than Viking ships, but even more influential all over the world.

While Norway has a long history of Lutheran Christianity, it might not be a country typically associated with religious history, especially when compared to Italy or Israel. Even still, the Nordic Bible Museum (Nordisk Bibelmuseum) not only displays biblical texts from hundreds of years ago, but 96% of its TripAdvisor reviews are five stars (and the rest are no less than four stars). Reviewers noted the museum's helpful and informative guides, kind volunteer staff, and the sheer size of the collection as reasons behind such acclamation. 

Read more: 30 Weird Museums Around The World

The Nordic Bible Museum Features Rare And Influential Artifacts

The Nordic Bible Museum seeks not only to display historical bibles, but to also explain their contents, explore the authors and their motivations, state where each book was written, and describe the bible's impact on society as a whole. Such impacts are not limited to religious practices either, as the museum reveals. However, do not feel that you must be a dedicated Christian to visit this museum or leave the property with newfound faith. The museum conveys an approachable tone, as indicated by its website's inclusion of the Mark Twain quote, "It ain't the parts of the Bible that I can't understand that bother me, it is the parts that I do understand."

A trip to the Nordic Bible Museum dips into bookmaking in general. One of its exhibits is a page from a 1400s Gutenberg Bible. The Gutenberg Bible marked the first-ever use of moveable metal typing rather than handwriting. This change made books easier to make and therefore more affordable, accessible, and easier to distribute. The Nordic Bible Museum's artifact from a Gutenberg bible reveals the historic change in how the masses could access this religious text. Few copies of these bibles still exist.

The Nordic Bible Museum Is Easy To Access Via Subway

Another notable artifact in the Nordic Bible Museum is one of Gustav I Vasa's bibles. Vasa was the king of Sweden from 1523 to his death in 1560. Though tyrannical, he helped create an independent Sweden and as for his religious significance, Lutheranism became more widespread under his rule. His bible at the Nordic Bible Museum is from 1541. 

Significant portions of the exhibits at the Nordic Bible Museum come from the collection of acclaimed oil, construction, and product manufacturing businessperson Rune Arnhoff, who founded the museum. His collection of over 4,500 bibles includes ones from Norway itself and other countries. These artifacts combine to make a truly memorable experience which has helped make the Nordic Bible Museum TripAdvisor's number one thing to do in Oslo. Explore on your own for as long or as short as you would like, or book a guided tour with the contact information on the website . The museum is open every day except Mondays and is located near the Stortinget subway stop which is on all five of Oslo's subway routes.

Read the original article on Explore .

Australian territory imposes two-week youth curfew in Alice Springs after violence

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Reporting by Alasdair Pal in Sydney; Editing by Jamie Freed

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Alasdair leads the team covering breaking news in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific. Before moving to Sydney, he covered general news in New Delhi, where he reported from the front-line of the coronavirus pandemic in India and the insurgency in Kashmir, as well as extended periods in Pakistan and, most recently, in Sri Lanka covering its ongoing economic crisis. His reporting on Islamic State suicide bombings in Sri Lanka in 2019 was highly commended as the Society of Publishers in Asia awards. He previously worked as a financial reporter in London, with a particular interest in hedge funds and accounting frauds. Signal app phone number: +61439529540

Chinese investigators arrived in Pakistan on Friday to join a probe into the killing of five Chinese nationals in a suicide attack, Pakistan's interior ministry said, seeking to stem assaults threatening Islamabad's drive to modernise the economy.

The United States said on Friday it will impose new visa restrictions on a number of Hong Kong officials over the crackdown on rights and freedoms in the Chinese-ruled territory.

US to impose new visa curbs on Hong Kong officials over rights crackdown

The United States said on Friday it is taking steps to impose new visa restrictions on multiple Hong Kong officials over the crackdown on rights and freedoms in the Chinese-ruled territory.

Japanese health officials searched a Kobayashi Pharmaceutical factory on Saturday after the drugmaker reported five deaths possibly linked to dietary supplements using red yeast rice, an official said.

Malaysia has arrested an armed man at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur, its top police official said, describing the 36-year-old as a suspected Israeli spy.

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Good Friday

The British Museum names Nicholas Cullinan its new director as it tries to get over a rocky patch

FILE - Visitors walk outside the British Museum in Bloomsbury, London, Friday, June 26, 2015. The British Museum is suing a former curator alleged to have stolen almost 2,000 artifacts from its collections and offered them for sale online. Peter Higgs was fired in July 2023 after more than 1,800 items were discovered to be missing. (AP Photo/Tim Ireland, File)

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LONDON (AP) — The British Museum on Thursday appointed National Portrait Gallery chief Nicholas Cullinan as its new director, as the 265-year-old institution grapples with the apparent theft of hundreds of artifacts and growing international scrutiny of its collection.

Previous director Hartwig Fischer resigned in August after the museum disclosed that more than 1,800 items were missing in an apparent case of insider theft. Many of the items had been offered for sale online .

Mark Jones, former head of the Victoria and Albert Museum, has served as interim director since then. Cullinan will replace him in the summer.

Cullinan has been director of the National Portrait Gallery since 2015, overseeing a major refurbishment of the building beside London’s Trafalgar Square. He has previously worked at Tate Modern in London and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

His appointment was approved by the British Museum’s trustees and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak .

Cullinan said it was an honor to become director of “one of the greatest museums in the world.”

He said he looked forward to leading the institution through “the most significant transformations, both architectural and intellectual, happening in any museum globally, to continue making the British Museum the most engaged and collaborative it can be.”

The museum fired a longstanding curator, Paul Higgs, over the missing items, and is suing him at the High Court. Lawyers for the museum say Higgs “abused his position of trust” to steal ancient gems, gold jewelry and other pieces from storerooms over the course of a decade.

Higgs, who worked in the museum’s Greece and Rome department for more than two decades, denies the allegations and intends to dispute the museum’s legal claim.

Police are also investigating, but no one has been charged.

The 18th-century museum in central London’s Bloomsbury district is one of Britain’s biggest tourist attractions, visited by 6 million people a year. They come to see a collection that ranges from Egyptian mummies and ancient Greek statues to Viking hoards, scrolls bearing 12th-century Chinese poetry and masks created by the Indigenous peoples of Canada.

The museum faces growing pressure over items taken from other countries during the period of the British Empire -– especially the Parthenon Marbles , 2,500-year-old sculptures that were taken from Athens in the early 19th century by British diplomat Lord Elgin.

Greece has campaigned for decades for the marbles to be returned. The British Museum is banned by law from giving the sculptures back to Greece, but its leaders have held talks with Greek officials about a compromise , such as a long-term loan.

Those efforts suffered a setback in November, when a diplomatic spat erupted over the marbles, and Prime Minister Sunak abruptly canceled a planned meeting with his Greek counterpart, Kyriakos Mitsotakis .

British Museum Chairman George Osborne said that with Cullinan’s appointment, the institution was entering “a new chapter in the long story of the British Museum with confidence, and back on the front foot.”