Arad - Discovering Israel

Travelling to Arad

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Arad, a pretty good destination in Israel (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Arad and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Arad, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Israel, here's everything to know about Arad for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Arad

Arad is a city located in the southern part of Israel's Negev Desert. It is situated about 25 kilometers west of the Dead Sea and 45 kilometers east of Beer Sheva. Arad is known for its dry desert climate, scenic mountain views, and proximity to national parks and nature reserves. The city has a population of around 24,000 people and is home to several important archaeological and historical sites, including the ancient fortress of Tel Arad. Popular activities in Arad include hiking, birdwatching, and exploring local spa and wellness resorts.

What to visit in Arad

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Arad, Israel with some info for each: 1. Masada - Masada is an ancient fortress located on top of a mountain overlooking the Dead Sea. It is a popular tourist attraction due to its historical significance and beautiful panoramic views.
2. Dead Sea - The Dead Sea is a saltwater lake located between Israel and Jordan. It is the lowest point on Earth and known for its therapeutic properties due to the high salt concentration that makes you float effortlessly.
3. Tel Arad National Park - Tel Arad is an archaeological site and national park that contains the ruins of an ancient Canaanite and Israelite city. It is known for its well-preserved Canaanite temple and Israelite fortress.
4. Ein Gedi Nature Reserve - The Ein Gedi Nature Reserve is a beautiful oasis located along the shores of the Dead Sea. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including ibexes, hyraxes, and several species of birds.
5. Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial - The Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial is a moving and educational museum dedicated to the memory of the victims of the Holocaust. It contains exhibits and artifacts related to the Holocaust and serves as a reminder of the importance of never forgetting history.
6. Timna Park - Timna Park is a geological wonderland located in the southern region of Israel. It is known for its stunning rock formations, including the famous "Mushroom" formation, and for its ancient copper workings.
7. Zohar Hot Springs - The Zohar Hot Springs are natural hot springs located in the Arava Valley near the Dead Sea. The springs are believed to have therapeutic properties and are a popular destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Arad, Israel, that you can explore and enjoy during your visit.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Israel, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Arad.

When to go on holiday to Arad

Arad, Israel has a desert climate and experiences very hot temperatures during the summer months. Therefore, it's best to visit Arad from October through April when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for activities like hiking and sightseeing. Additionally, visiting during these months allows you to avoid the crowds that come with peak summer tourism.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Arad

Arad is a city in Israel located in the south of the country. There are several ways to get to Arad, depending on your starting location.
1. By car: If you have access to a car, you can drive to Arad. The city is located on Highway 31, which connects to Highway 90, the main road running north-south through the Jordan Valley.
2. By bus: Israel has a well-developed public transportation system, and there are regular buses connecting the major cities. You can take a bus from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv to Arad, with the journey taking around two hours.
3. By train: Israel Railways operates a train service between Tel Aviv and Be'er Sheva, with a stop in Arad. The journey takes around two and a half hours.
4. By taxi: You can also take a taxi from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem to Arad. However, this is likely to be more expensive than taking public transportation.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Arad, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Arad

Arad is a city in Israel situated in close proximity to the Dead Sea and hence their cuisine is largely influenced by the Mediterranean cuisine. Some of the typical foods of Arad are: 1. Falafel - Falafel is a popular and common Middle Eastern food made from ground chickpeas and spices. The mixture is then deep-fried in oil resulting in a crispy exterior with a soft, flavorful and moist interior, served either in a pita or on a plate.
2. Shakshuka - Shakshuka is a poached egg dish cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce, spiced with cumin, garlic, and chili, and served with bread or pita. It is a popular breakfast and brunch dish in Israel.
3. Hummus - Hummus is a creamy dip made of cooked and mashed chickpeas blended with tahini (a paste made of roasted sesame seeds), olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. It is traditionally served with pita bread and garnished with paprika, cumin or parsley.
4. Sabich - Sabich is a popular Israeli street food made by stuffing a pita bread with fried eggplant, boiled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, parsley, tahini sauce, and amba (pickled mango sauce).
5. Couscous - Couscous is a small, round pasta made from crushed semolina wheat, popular in North African and Middle Eastern cuisine. It is typically served with stewed vegetables, lamb or chicken, and spices. 6. Bourekas - Bourekas is a savory Turkish pastry made by stuffing phyllo dough with cheese, potato, spinach, and eggplants. It is a popular snack, especially for breakfast. 7. Jerusalem Mixed Grill - Jerusalem Mixed Grill is a platter of grilled meat including lamb, chicken, and beef served with a side of hummus, tahini sauce, and salad. It is a popular dish in Israel and is often shared with friends and family. These are some of the typical foods of Arad that you should try when you visit the city.
You can find general info about typical foods in Israel here.

Is Arad an expensive destination for tourists?

Arad, Israel is generally considered to be a more affordable destination compared to other popular tourist destinations in Israel such as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. However, prices can still vary depending on your specific travel needs and preferences. Accommodation, transportation, and food prices can all impact your overall trip expenses. It's always a good idea to research and compare different options before making any travel arrangements. Additionally, if you plan ahead and take advantage of discounts and deals, you can definitely save money on your visit to Arad.

Where to find accomodation in Arad

Arad is a small city in the south of Israel, known mainly for its location as a gateway to the Negev desert. The best areas to find accommodation in Arad are downtown and near the central bus station. There are many hotels and guesthouses in these areas, as well as shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Additionally, if you're looking for a more peaceful and relaxing stay, there are also many guesthouses and small hotels located in the surrounding desert areas. Finally, you can also find accommodation options near the city's main attractions, such as the Tel Arad National Park, the Dead Sea, and the Masada National Park.
You can check hotel prices at Arad here:
Booking.com

Is Arad a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Arad is generally a safe place for tourists. Like any other city, it is always advisable to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and not leaving valuables unattended. However, overall, Arad has a low crime rate, and tourists should be able to enjoy the city without any major safety concerns. It is always recommended to follow the local laws and customs, and take necessary precautions while travelling.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Israel here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Arad.

What type of travelers will enjoy Arad the most?

Arad, Israel, can be a great destination for many different types of travelers. However, it is generally more popular with couples and families than with young people looking for a party scene. Arad is located in the Negev desert and offers a unique desert experience for visitors who love nature and adventure. It is home to several hiking trails, such as the Masada trail that offers stunning views of the Dead Sea, and the Ein Gedi nature reserve that offers a refreshing dip in waterfalls and natural pools.
The city also boasts several historical and religious attractions, such as the Tel Arad National Park, where visitors can explore the ruins of an ancient Jewish fortress, and the Amiaz Plains that offer a glimpse into the ancient Nabatean civilization.
Arad is also known for its wellness tourism, with its renowned Dead Sea spa treatments offering relaxing and rejuvenating experiences for travelers.
Overall, Arad is a destination best suited for couples and families who want to experience nature, history, and unique desert experiences.

How to get around Arad

The best options for transportation in Arad, Israel are by car, bus, or taxi. There is no train service available in Arad. Buses are the most commonly used form of public transportation and run regularly throughout the city. Taxis are also readily available and are a convenient option for getting around in Arad. If you prefer to have more flexibility, renting a car is also a great option as it will allow you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

What to see around Arad

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Arad in Israel: 1. Masada National Park 2. Dead Sea 3. Ein Gedi Nature Reserve 4. Qumran National Park 5. Kibbutz Ein Gedi Botanical Garden 6. Tamar Visitor Center 7. Hebron 8. Bethlehem 9. Jericho 10. Jerusalem (although it is a bit further than the others on this list, it is definitely worth a visit) Please note that some of these places may require entry fees, and some may require advanced booking or permits. Also, depending on the time of year, it is important to check opening hours and weather conditions.
For every travel information about Israel you can click here.

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