Israel

Israel: general info for travelers

Israel is a small country located in the Middle East, bordered by Lebanon to the north, Syria to the northeast, Jordan to the east, Egypt and the Gaza Strip to the southwest, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. It is a land rich in history and culture, with a population of around nine million people, made up of Jews, Christians, Muslims, and Druze. Israel is home to many important religious sites, including Jerusalem's Old City with its Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and Dome of the Rock. The country is also known for its stunning natural beauty, from the Dead Sea to the Mediterranean coastline, and its thriving modern cities, such as Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Israel, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Israel: places to visit

Of course, I'd be happy to help you plan your trip to Israel! Here are some of the main places to visit in Israel and a little bit about what you can expect to see and experience at each one: 1. Jerusalem - One of the world's oldest cities, Jerusalem is home to some of the most significant religious sites for Christians, Jews, and Muslims, including the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock. Visitors can explore the Old City's winding alleyways, markets, and narrow streets that are filled with history and tradition. 2. Tel Aviv - Known as the "Mediterranean Capital of Cool," Tel Aviv is a vibrant, modern city and the cultural hub of Israel. Visitors can enjoy the city's beaches, restaurants, nightlife, and art galleries while also experiencing its Bauhaus architecture and street art. 3. Masada - An ancient fortress on a plateau overlooking the Dead Sea, Masada is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Jewish resistance against Roman occupation. Visitors can take a cable car or hike up to the top and explore the ruins of the palace complex and see stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. 4. Dead Sea - The lowest point on Earth and one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world, the Dead Sea is a popular destination for those seeking medicinal properties in its mineral-rich mud and salt. Visitors can float effortlessly on top of the water or cover themselves in mud for a unique spa experience. 5. Galilee - A region in northern Israel known for its lush landscapes, historic sites, and religious significance. Visitors can explore the town of Nazareth, visit the Mount of Beatitudes where Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount, and take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. 6. Haifa - A coastal city located on the slopes of Mount Carmel, Haifa offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and is home to the Baha'i Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited attractions in Israel. These are just some of the many places to visit in Israel. No matter where you go, you'll find a unique blend of history, culture, and spirituality that makes Israel unlike any other place in the world.
There is more to see and do in Israel: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Israel: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Israel, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Israel has a varied climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit Israel depends on the type of activities you have planned. The peak tourist season in Israel is during the summer months, from June to August, when temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) and it's sunny and dry. However, it can be very hot and humid, particularly in the coastal regions like Tel Aviv.
The winter months, from December to February, are generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). There is a possibility of rain during this time in some regions, but it's generally a good time for sightseeing.
The spring and autumn months are good for outdoor activities like hiking, exploring the countryside, and visiting the historical and cultural sites. The temperature range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), and the weather is pleasant.
Overall, the best time to visit Israel is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild, there are fewer tourists, and the prices are lower.

Israel: activities and what to do

Israel offers a variety of activities and sports to do on holiday. Some of the popular activities and sports include: 1. Hiking: Israel has stunning natural landscapes, and hiking is one of the best ways to explore them. Some popular hiking trails include Masada, Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, and the Israel National Trail.
2. Beach activities: The Mediterranean coast and the Red Sea offer a range of beach activities, including swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing.
3. Cycling: Cycling is a popular activity in Israel, and there are many trails available for both mountain and road biking.
4. Water sports: Israel is famous for its water sports, including windsurfing, kiteboarding, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
5. Yoga and wellness: Israel is a hub for yoga retreats and wellness activities, and there are many centers offering yoga and meditation classes.
6. Cultural experiences: Israel is rich in history and culture, and there are many museums, archaeological sites, and ancient ruins to explore. Visiting Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Haifa are also great ways to immerse in culture and enjoy a diverse culinary scene.
7. Extreme sports: For adrenaline junkies, Israel offers rock climbing, bungee jumping, paragliding and skydiving.
These are just a few examples of the many activities and sports that you can enjoy while on holiday in Israel.

Israel: few words on history and culture

Israel is a land with a rich history and diverse culture. It is home to significant religious sites for three of the world's major monotheistic religions - Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Biblical history comes alive in Israel with sites such as the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock. Additionally, Israel has a rich cultural heritage that reflects its complex mix of ethnic groups, religions, and immigrant communities. Israeli culture is influenced by Jewish traditions, European and Middle Eastern cultures, as well as Western influences. The country is renowned for its art, dance, music, literature, and culinary scene. Furthermore, Israel has made significant contributions in the fields of science and technology, agriculture, and medicine. With a blend of ancient history and a modern outlook, Israel is a fascinating destination for cultural and historical exploration.

Israel: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach Israel would depend on where you are coming from. If you are coming from abroad, then the most convenient means of transport would be by air. Israel has numerous airports, including the main Ben Gurion International Airport, which is the largest and busiest airport in the country.
Once you are in Israel, the most popular and efficient means of transport within the country is by bus and train. Israel has an extensive network of buses and trains that cover the major cities and towns in the country. The bus network is run by a company called Egged, and the trains are operated by Israel Railways.
Taxis and rental cars are also available in Israel, but they tend to be more expensive than buses and trains.
In summary, the best means of transport to reach and visit Israel is by air and within the country, by bus and train. To hire a car to visit Israel, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Israel: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Israel with a full stomach:D
Here are some of the main typical foods of Israel, along with a brief description of each: 1. Hummus - a creamy dip made from pureed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic and olive oil. It's usually served with pita bread for dipping or as a spread on sandwiches.
2. Falafel - fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans that are often served in a pita bread with hummus, salad, and tahini sauce.
3. Shakshuka - a spicy dish made by simmering eggs in a tomato and pepper sauce, often served with warm pita bread or crusty bread.
4. Sabich - a pita sandwich typically filled with fried eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, salad, tahini sauce, and often pickles and amba (a spiced mango sauce).
5. Shawarma - thin slices of seasoned meat (often chicken, lamb, or beef) that are stacked and slow-roasted on a spit, then shaved off and served in a pita bread or as a platter with salads, pickles, and sauces.
6. Bourekas - flaky pastries usually stuffed with cheese, potato, spinach, or meat.
7. Malabi - a creamy milk pudding, flavored with rose water and topped with chopped nuts, coconut shavings, and syrup.
These are just a few of the delicious and popular foods you may find when traveling to Israel!

Israel: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Israel can be considered a relatively expensive country for tourists. The cost of accommodation, food, transportation, and attractions can be higher compared to other destinations in the region. However, there are ways to manage costs, such as staying in budget accommodations, eating at local restaurants, and using public transportation or shared taxis. Moreover, there are many free or low-cost activities to enjoy in Israel, including visiting religious sites, hiking, and exploring cities on foot.

Israel: where to find accodation

There are several websites you can use to look for accommodation in Israel, such as: 1. Booking.com 2. Airbnb.com 3. Expedia.com 4. Hotels.com 5. Agoda.com These websites offer a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. It's important to read reviews from previous guests and compare prices and locations before making a booking.
You can check hotel prices in Israel here:
Booking.com

Israel: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Israel receives around 4.5 million tourists annually. The high tourist season is generally during the summer months (June-August) and around major Jewish holidays such as Passover, Rosh Hashanah, and Hanukkah. During these times, popular tourist destinations like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and the Dead Sea can become quite crowded. However, Israel is a small country, and even during peak tourist season, it is still possible to find less crowded areas to explore.
Israel is generally considered a safe country for tourists. The country has a highly efficient security system that is very effective in counterterrorism activities. However, just like any other travel destination, there are certain areas or neighborhoods that you may want to avoid to ensure your safety. For instance, you may want to avoid the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and the cities near the border with Syria, Lebanon, and Egypt, where there could be potential security concerns. It is advisable to stay updated on local news and alerts and to follow the instructions of local authorities. Overall, Israel is a beautiful and safe destination, but it is always better to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when traveling in unfamiliar territories.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Israel on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Israel: events for tourists

There are many interesting events for tourists in Israel throughout the year. Here are some suggestions: 1. Jerusalem Light Festival - a yearly event in June where the city becomes illuminated with light installations and performances.
2. Tel Aviv Pride Parade - a colorful and lively event held in June that celebrates LGBTQ+ culture.
3. Haifa International Film Festival - held in September/October, this festival showcases the best of Israeli and international cinema.
4. Israel Museum in Jerusalem - hosting various cultural events and exhibits throughout the year.
5. Eilat Bird Festival - held in March, birdwatchers from all over come to observe migrating bird species along the Red Sea.
6. Festival of Sukkot - a weeklong festival in October that celebrates the harvest and includes feasting, music, and dancing.
7. Festival of Hanukkah - a winter celebration in December that involves lighting candles, playing games, and eating traditional foods.
These are just a few examples, as Israel has much to offer in terms of cultural events and festivals.

Israel: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Israel, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a two week travel itinerary for a typical tourist in Israel that covers most of the major attractions: Day 1-2: Arrive in Tel Aviv and explore the vibrant city center, beaches, and nightlife.
Day 3: Visit ancient city of Jaffa, a picturesque port town that dates back to biblical times.
Day 4-5: Head to the Galilee region to explore the historic city of Nazareth, hike in the nature reserves, swim in the Sea of Galilee, and sample local wine.
Day 6-7: Visit the city of Haifa and its stunning Baha'i Gardens, as well as the Crusader fortress of Acco (Acre) and the ancient city of Caesarea.
Day 8-9: Head south to the Negev Desert to experience unique landscapes, Bedouin culture, and the magnificent ancient city of Masada.
Day 10-11: Catch the sunrise at the ancient city of Petra in neighboring Jordan and spend the day exploring its magnificent ruins.
Day 12-13: Visit Jerusalem, including the Old City's holy sites like the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Day 14: Head back to Tel Aviv for some last-minute shopping and dining, and depart for home.
Of course, there are many variations to this itinerary, and you may want to adjust it to suit your interests and schedule. Enjoy your trip!

Israel: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Israel described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Akko is a coastal city located in Northern Israel, on the Mediterranean Sea. It's known for its rich history, having been inhabited and conquered by various empires throughout the ages. Today, Akko is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Akko
- 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 cli... CONTINUE here for a trip to Arad
- Ashdod is a coastal city located in the central region of Israel, about 25 miles southwest of Jerusalem. It is the fifth-largest city in Israel and is home to more than 240,000 people. The city has a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ashdod
- Ashkelon is a coastal city in southern Israel, located on the Mediterranean Sea. With a population of approximately 150,000, it is the fifth-largest city in Israel. Ashkelon is known for its beautiful... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ashkelon
- Atlit is a small coastal town in Israel, located about 15 kilometers South of Haifa. It is situated on the Mediterranean Sea and known for its beautiful beaches. The town has an interesting history, i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Atlit
- Beersheba is the largest city located in the southern part of Israel. It serves as the capital of the Negev desert and is one of the country's biggest urban areas. It is a modern and vibrant city, wit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Beersheba
- Beit Shean is an ancient city located in the northern district of Israel, near the Jordan River. It has been inhabited by various civilizations for over 5,000 years and is home to many well-preserved ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Beit Shean
- Bet Shemesh is a city located in the Jerusalem District of Israel, approximately 30 kilometers west of Jerusalem. The name Bet Shemesh means "house of the sun" in Hebrew and is believed to refer to th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bet Shemesh
- Bethlehem is a small city in the West Bank region of Palestine, located about 10 kilometers south of Jerusalem in Israel. It is considered to be one of the most sacred places for Christians as it is b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bethlehem
- Bnei Brak is a city in Israel located east of Tel Aviv. It is known as a center of ultra-Orthodox Judaism and is home to one of the largest Haredi communities in the world. The city has a population o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bnei Brak
- Caesarea is an ancient port city located on the Mediterranean coast in Israel, about 50 km north of Tel Aviv. It was originally built by King Herod the Great in the 1st century BCE and served as a maj... CONTINUE here for a trip to Caesarea
- The Dead Sea is a saltwater lake located in the Jordan Rift Valley, bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel and the West Bank to the west. It is the lowest point on Earth, lying 430 meters (1,407 fe... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dead Sea
- Dimona is a city located in the Southern District of Israel, about 36 km southeast of Beersheba. The city has a population of approximately 34,000 and is known for its nuclear research center, which i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dimona
- Eilat is a resort city located in the southernmost part of Israel, on the coast of the Red Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, thriving coral reefs, and vibrant nightlife. Eilat enjoys a year-... CONTINUE here for a trip to Eilat
- Haifa is the third-largest city in Israel, located in the northern part of the country, on the Mediterranean coast. It has a population of over 280,000 people, making it a major cultural and economic ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Haifa
- Herzliya is a city located on the central coast of Israel, just north of Tel Aviv. It is a vibrant, modern city with a mix of residential, commercial, and tourist areas. The city has a variety of beac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Herzliya
- Jerusalem is a city in the Middle East located in Israel. It is considered to be one of the oldest cities in the world, with a rich history dating back thousands of years. The city is sacred to three ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jerusalem
- Kfar Saba is a city located in the Sharon region of Israel, approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Tel Aviv. It has a population of around 100,000 people and is considered a suburb of Tel Aviv. Kfar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kfar Saba
- Kibbutz Ein Gedi is a communal settlement located in the Judean Desert, just west of the Dead Sea in Israel. It was founded in 1953 and has a population of around 600 people. The kibbutz is known for ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kibbutz Ein Gedi
- Kibbutz Ga'ash is located in the center of Israel, about 30 kilometers north of Tel Aviv. It is a communal settlement founded in 1936 and is home to approximately 400 members. The kibbutz's main indus... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kibbutz Ga'ash
- Kibbutz Hatzor is a collective community in Israel located in the Northern District. It was founded in 1948 and has a population of approximately 1200 people. The kibbutz is known for its agricultural... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kibbutz Hatzor
- Kibbutz Kfar Blum is located in the Hula Valley of northern Israel, near the Lebanese border. Founded in 1943, it is one of the oldest and largest kibbutzim in the region. The kibbutz is known for its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kibbutz Kfar Blum
- Kibbutz Lahav is a communal settlement located in southern Israel, about 80 kilometers (50 miles) southeast of Tel Aviv. It was established in 1952 by Jewish immigrants from Europe, mainly from Hungar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kibbutz Lahav
- Kibbutz Lavi is a communal settlement located in the Galilee region of northern Israel. It was founded in 1949 by immigrants from Hungary and Czechoslovakia, and today it is home to around 800 residen... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kibbutz Lavi
- Kibbutz Lotan is an educational and research institute located in the southern Arava region of Israel, near the border with Jordan. It was established in 1983 by a group of young environmental activis... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kibbutz Lotan
- Kibbutz Sde Boker is a communal settlement located in the Negev desert region of Israel. It was founded in 1952 by Prime Minister David Ben Gurion, who chose the location as his retirement home. Today... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kibbutz Sde Boker
- Masada is an ancient fortress located in the Southern District of Israel, near the Dead Sea. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Israel. It i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Masada
- Mitzpe Ramon is a small town located in the Negev desert of southern Israel. It is situated on the edge of the magnificent Ramon Crater, which is the world's largest erosion crater and a popular touri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mitzpe Ramon
- Modi'in is a small city in central Israel, located between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. It was established in 1996 and is home to a diverse population of around 90,000 residents. Modi'in is known for its h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Modi'in
- Nazareth is a city in northern Israel, located in the Lower Galilee region. It is the largest Arab city in Israel and is known as the childhood home of Jesus Christ, making it a significant pilgrimage... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nazaret
- Netanya is a city located in the northern central area of Israel, on the Mediterranean coast. It has a population of approximately 225,000 people and is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Netanya
- Petah Tikva is a city located in the central district of Israel, east of Tel Aviv. It's often referred to as the mother of all Jewish settlements in Israel, as it was one of the first modern Jew... CONTINUE here for a trip to Petah Tikva
- Qumran is an archaeological site located in the West Bank, near the Dead Sea in Israel. It is famous for the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls - the oldest known copies of the Hebrew Bible. Qumran was... CONTINUE here for a trip to Qumran
- Ramla is a city located in central Israel, about 20 kilometers southeast of Tel Aviv. It is known for its rich history, with archaeological evidence indicating that the city has been inhabited for tho... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ramla
- Safed (also known as Tzfat) is a city in the northern district of Israel with a population of approximately 35,000 people. It is one of the four holy cities in Judaism and is known for its rich histor... CONTINUE here for a trip to Safed
- Tel Aviv is a lively city located on the beaches of the Mediterranean Sea in Israel. It is a cultural hub that has a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant nightlife. This city is known f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tel Aviv
- Tiberias is a popular city located on the western shores of the Sea of Galilee, in northern Israel. It is a significant tourist destination known for its hot springs, natural beauty, and historic land... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tiberias
- Yeruham is a small town located in the southern part of Israel, in the Negev desert. It has a population of around 10,000 people and is known for its beautiful desert landscapes and natural reserves. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yeruham
- Yotvata is a kibbutz in the southern Arava desert of Israel, near the border with Jordan. It is situated close to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba, offering easy access to beaches and water sports. Y... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yotvata


Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: