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ISRAEL

Israel is where ancient history collides with dynamic modern life, a sliver of land that has seen empires rise and fall and prophets walk desert trails. Bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the west and desert to the east, Israel’s geography is as varied as its past—from the forested Galilee hills to the parched cliffs of the Negev and the shimmering waters of the Dead Sea, Earth’s lowest point. Jerusalem’s stone walls have echoed with prayers for millennia, while Tel Aviv’s glass towers look toward the future.

This land has been sacred to three major religions for thousands of years. Canaanites, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and the British have all laid claims and left their mark—visible in layered ruins, diverse cuisine, and contested narratives. Today, modern highways cross ground once trodden by crusaders and kings, while cities like Haifa and Eilat offer Mediterranean leisure and Red Sea adventure. Whether you’re walking Roman roads in Caesarea or floating in saline silence at the Dead Sea, Israel’s compact size hides an outsized experience.

Why Visit Israel?

Sacred Sites of Three Faiths: Jerusalem’s Old City holds the Western Wall, Al-Aqsa Mosque, and Church of the Holy Sepulchre—an unmatched spiritual crossroads.

Modern Energy in Tel Aviv: A vibrant Mediterranean city known for its nightlife, tech culture, Bauhaus architecture, and lively beaches.

Floating in the Dead Sea: Experience effortless buoyancy in the salty waters of this natural wonder—Earth’s lowest surface point.

Diverse Landscapes in a Tiny Space: From snow-capped Mount Hermon to desert dunes, lush valleys, and coral-filled reefs.

Biblical History & Archaeology: Explore ruins in Masada, Caesarea, and Megiddo that echo ancient empires and epic tales.

Incredible Cuisine: From hummus and shakshuka to cutting-edge vegan dining, Israel’s food scene is both ancient and inventive.

Smart Travel: Off-Season Deals & Delights

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices: Flights and accommodation rates are at their absolute lowest.
  • Fewer Crowds: Major attractions, historical sites, and cities like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv are significantly less crowded, offering a more intimate experience.
  • Authentic Local Vibe: Experience Israel like a local, with more opportunities to interact with residents and enjoy a serene atmosphere.
  • Mild Temperatures (in most areas): Unlike Europe, winter in much of Israel is relatively mild and pleasant for sightseeing, especially in coastal and southern regions.
  • Lush Landscapes: Winter rains transform the typically arid landscapes into a vibrant green, particularly in the North and Central regions.

Main Drawbacks:

  • Rainy Season: Winter is Israel’s rainy season, with occasional downpours, especially in December and January.
  • Shorter Days: Daylight hours are shorter, limiting sightseeing time.
  • Colder in Mountains/North: Regions like Jerusalem and the Golan Heights can experience genuinely cold temperatures and even snow.
  • Limited Beach Activities: Beach activities are generally not possible due to cooler temperatures, though some brave souls might swim in Eilat.
  • Some Closures: Certain seasonal attractions or guesthouses, particularly in very rural or beach areas, might be closed.

Key Regions:

  • Jerusalem: The capital city is enchanting in winter, especially if it snows (a rare but beautiful occurrence). You can explore the Old City with fewer tourists, visit museums, and experience the local culture. The historical sites are incredibly atmospheric.
  • Tel Aviv: The coastal city enjoys mild winters, making it ideal for exploring its vibrant urban scene, museums, Carmel Market, and Jaffa. The cafe culture thrives year-round.
  • Eilat: The southernmost city on the Red Sea offers consistently warm and sunny weather even in winter, perfect for enjoying the beaches, snorkeling, and diving without the summer heat or crowds.
  • Dead Sea & Masada: The lowest point on Earth remains relatively warm, offering a unique and comfortable experience for floating in the Dead Sea and exploring the ancient fortress of Masada with fewer visitors.
  • Galilee & Golan Heights (excluding coldest periods): While potentially colder and wetter, these northern regions offer stunning green landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere for exploring historical and religious sites, and natural beauty.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather: Pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor activities, without the extreme heat of summer.
  • Manageable Crowds: Tourist numbers are lower than in peak summer, but attractions are fully open and vibrant.
  • Reasonable Prices: Flights and accommodation are more affordable than in summer, though slightly higher than deep winter.
  • Festivals & Events: Many vibrant local festivals and cultural events take place, including Passover (Pesach) in spring and Sukkot in autumn (though these holidays bring higher prices and crowds for their specific weeks).
  • Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Comfortable Desert Exploration (Autumn): Enjoy the natural beauty of Israel’s countryside in bloom, or perfect weather for desert adventures.

Main Drawbacks:

  • Holiday Peaks: Jewish holidays like Passover (March/April) and Sukkot (September/October) see a significant surge in domestic and international tourism, leading to higher prices and crowds for those specific weeks.
  • “Hamsin” (Heatwaves): Especially in late spring and early autumn, occasional “hamsin” (dusty, hot) days can occur, making outdoor activities less comfortable.
  • Spring Pollen: For allergy sufferers, spring can bring high pollen counts.

Key Regions:

  • All of Israel: These seasons are truly the “sweet spot” for exploring all regions of Israel.
  • Jerusalem: Perfect weather for exploring the Old City, museums, and historical sites, with comfortable temperatures for walking.
  • Tel Aviv: Enjoy the beaches, vibrant city life, and outdoor cafes without the intense summer heat.
  • Galilee & Golan Heights: Ideal for hiking, exploring historical sites, and enjoying the lush scenery.
  • Negev Desert: Autumn offers fantastic conditions for desert trekking, jeep tours, and exploring ancient Nabatean cities like Avdat and Shivta. Spring can be beautiful with desert blooms after winter rains.
  • Eilat & Red Sea: Still very pleasant for beach activities, snorkeling, and diving, with comfortable water temperatures.

Mid-Summer (June-August): This is Israel’s peak tourist season, driven by European and North American summer holidays. Prices for flights and accommodation are at their highest, and popular attractions will be crowded. The weather is generally hot to very hot, especially inland and in the south, which can be challenging for sightseeing. While the beaches are vibrant, the value for money is significantly lower.

Jewish Holidays (Passover/Pesach in Spring, Sukkot in Autumn): These major Jewish holidays are extremely popular times for both domestic and international travel to Israel. While offering unique cultural experiences, prices for flights, accommodation, and car rentals surge, and popular sites will be exceptionally crowded. It’s crucial to book well in advance if traveling during these periods.

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Essential Trip Information

  • Visa-free entry for citizens of the U.S., EU, UK, Canada, Australia, and others (up to 90 days).

  • Check official requirements here.

  • Passport validity: Must extend at least six months beyond your stay.

  • Security checks are thorough; expect questioning on arrival (remain polite).

  • Border stamps: Israel no longer stamps passports; you’ll receive a paper slip—keep it safe.

  • Israel uses the Israeli New Shekel (₪). Approximate exchange: US$1 ≈ ₪3.6.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount; ATMs offer favorable rates.

  • During Your Trip: Use bank ATMs (e.g., Bank Leumi, Hapoalim). Visa/Mastercard accepted almost everywhere. Keep ₪50–100 cash for markets or remote areas.

  • What to Avoid: Airport exchange booths (high fees), paying in foreign currency (less favorable rates).

Costs range from moderate to expensive depending on city and season.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels/guesthouses (US$30–80/night)

  • Mid-range: Boutique hotels (US$100–200/night)

  • Luxury: 4–5 star hotels (US$250+/night)

Food

  • Street food: Falafel, shawarma, sabich (US$5–10)

  • Casual restaurants: US$15–30/person

  • Fine dining: US$50+/person

Drinks

  • Beer: US$7–9 (bars), US$2–4 (supermarkets)

  • Cocktails: US$12–18

Transportation

  • City buses: US$1.50–2.00/ride (use a rechargeable Rav-Kav card)

  • Intercity buses: US$5–15, depending on distance

  • Taxis: Start at US$4 + US$1.50/mile

  • Trains: Tel Aviv–Jerusalem US$5–6

  • Rental cars: US$40–80/day

Money-Saving Tips

  • Eat at local markets (shuks) and falafel stands.

  • Take public buses or sheruts (shared taxis) for intercity travel.

  • Many museums offer free entry on certain days—check ahead.

  • Hebrew and Arabic are official languages.

  • English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

  • Helpful phrases:

    • “Shalom” (Hello/Peace)

    • “Toda” (Thank you)

    • “Eifo…?” (Where is…?)

  • Israel is generally safe for tourists, especially in major cities.

  • Be cautious in areas near border zones and conflict regions (e.g., Gaza perimeter).

  • Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas like the Old City of Jerusalem.

  • Emergency number: 100 (police), 101 (ambulance)

  • No vaccinations required, but routine immunizations (MMR, tetanus) should be up-to-date.

  • Travel insurance strongly recommended (private care is excellent but costly).

  • Pharmacies are widespread; tap water is safe to drink.

  • Trains: Fast and modern. Tel Aviv–Jerusalem takes under 40 minutes.

  • Buses: Extensive network; most cities are well-connected.

  • Sheruts (shared taxis): Run fixed routes between cities, including on Shabbat.

  • Car Rental: Great for exploring the Negev or Galilee, but not ideal for city driving.

  • Walking/Biking: Common in Tel Aviv, Jaffa, and Eilat.

Explore Israel

JERUSALEM
TEL AVIV
HAIFA
DEAD SEA & MASADA
GALILEE & TIBERIAS
NEGEV DESERT
EILAT
NAZARETH
ACRE (AKKO)
RAMAT GAN & PETAH TIKVA

Planning Your Trip

Israel has a Mediterranean climate along the coast and desert conditions inland. Your ideal travel time depends on where you’re going and what you’re doing.

  • Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Mediterranean Coast

    • Best: March–May & September–November – Pleasant weather (65–82°F / 18–28°C), fewer crowds, great for beach + sightseeing.

    • Avoid: July–August – Very hot and humid (86–95°F / 30–35°C), especially in Tel Aviv; crowded with tourists.

  • Negev Desert, Eilat (South)

    • Best: October–April – Warm, dry, and perfect for desert hikes, Red Sea snorkeling (70–85°F / 21–29°C).

    • Avoid: June–September – Extremely hot (95–104°F / 35–40°C+), not ideal for outdoor activities.

  • Northern Israel (Galilee, Golan Heights)

    • Best: Spring (March–May) – Blooming wildflowers, ideal for nature trips (60–78°F / 16–26°C).

    • Winter (Dec–Feb) – Can be rainy and chilly (50–65°F / 10–18°C), but good for fewer crowds.

Bold Recommendation: Visit in spring or fall (March–May or September–November) for perfect weather and a balanced cultural + nature experience.

  • Shabbat (Friday sunset to Saturday night): Many businesses close; plan ahead.

  • Dress code: Modest clothing required in religious areas (Jerusalem’s Old City, synagogues).

  • Tipping: 10–15% at restaurants; round up for taxis.

  • Security: Bag checks common at public places—routine and non-intrusive.

  • Language: Hebrew and Arabic are official; English is widely understood.

  • Cultural sensitivity: Be respectful at religious sites—no loud voices, no selfies at prayer spots.

  • Accommodation:

    • Hostels: US$25–60

    • Mid-range hotels: US$100–200

    • Luxury stays: US$300+

  • Food:

    • Street food (falafel, shawarma): US$6–12

    • Casual sit-down meal: US$15–30

    • Fine dining: US$70+

  • Transport:

    • Public transport: US$2–6/day

    • Rental car: ~US$50–80/day

    • Taxis: ~US$5–20 depending on distance

  • Attractions:

    • Museums: US$5–15

    • Day tours: US$40–90 (e.g., Dead Sea, Masada)

    • Free activities: Beaches, markets, hiking trails

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$80–120 (hostel, public transport, street food)

  • Mid-range: US$150–250 (hotel, restaurants, paid tours)

  • Luxury: US$350+ (premium stays, private guides, gourmet meals)

  • Free Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, buses, and even public parks.

  • SIM cards: Available at Ben Gurion Airport and convenience stores (~US$20–40 for 10–20GB).

  • eSIM: Supported via providers like Airalo, Holafly, and Partner.

  • Highly recommended: For medical coverage, theft, and delays.

  • Healthcare: Excellent but private services can be expensive for foreigners.

  • Adventure activities: Ensure your plan covers desert hikes, diving in Eilat, or jeep tours.

Israel offers a wide range of stays, from historical boutique hotels to desert eco-lodges.

  • Luxury

    • Jerusalem: The David Citadel, King David Hotel (Old City views).

    • Tel Aviv: The Norman, Jaffa Hotel (chic + beach proximity).

    • Desert: Beresheet Hotel (Mitzpe Ramon) – stunning crater views.

  • Mid-range

    • Boutique hotels: Arthur Hotel (Jerusalem), Market House (Jaffa).

    • Kibbutz guesthouses: Ranging US$80–150/night in Galilee, Golan.

  • Budget

    • Hostels: Abraham Hostels (Jerusalem, Tel Aviv), Fauzi Azar (Nazareth).

    • Guesthouses: ~US$25–60/night in most regions.

  • Unique Stays

    • Desert camps: Kfar Hanokdim (Bedouin experience).

    • Crusader-era hotels: Akkotel (Old Akko).

Tip: Book early for Jewish holidays (Passover, Sukkot), when demand surges.

Public transport is efficient in cities, but remote areas may require a car or guided tours.

  • Trains

    • Connect major cities (Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa). Modern, fast, and affordable (US$4–12).

    • Tip: Take the high-speed train from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem (~30 minutes).

  • Buses

    • Intercity buses: Reliable and cheap (US$3–15); Egged is the main operator.

    • Sherut (shared taxis): Operate on Shabbat when buses stop; flexible routes.

    • Urban buses: Around US$1.50 per ride; use Rav-Kav smart card.

  • Rental Cars

    • Best for the Negev Desert, Galilee, or off-the-beaten-path spots.

    • Costs ~US$50–80/day; automatic cars are common.

  • Taxis & Apps

    • Taxis: Start at ~US$3.50, then ~US$1/mile; always ask to use the meter.

    • Ride apps: Gett and Yango operate in major cities.

  • Domestic Flights

    • Limited but available from Tel Aviv to Eilat (~US$60–100; 1 hour).

Bold Recommendation: Use public transport in cities and rent a car for exploring the north or south.

Handy Tips

Israel uses the Israeli New Shekel (₪ or ILS). Banknotes come in ₪20, ₪50, ₪100, and ₪200 denominations; coins include 10 agorot, ½ shekel, 1, 2, 5, and 10 shekels.

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport kiosks; use ATMs or authorized exchange bureaus for better rates.

  • Using Cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. Some places (especially in markets or smaller towns) prefer cash, so keep some small bills.

  • Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is customary, though more moderate than the U.S.:

    • Restaurants: 10–15% (check the bill; service may be included).

    • Taxis: Not required but rounding up is polite.

    • Hotel Staff: ₪5–₪10 per bag for porters; ₪10–₪20 per night for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: ₪20–₪50 per person for group tours (more for private).

Hebrew and Arabic are official languages. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by younger locals.
Helpful phrases:

  • “Where is the nearest bus stop?”

  • “How much does this cost?”

  • “Do you speak English?”
    Pro Tip: In Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, locals are generally helpful—just speak clearly and directly. In rural areas, English might be less common—have Google Translate handy.

Israel is generally safe for tourists, though remain aware of regional tensions.

  • Be cautious in crowded areas and markets, especially during major holidays.

  • Always carry your passport or a copy for security checkpoints.

  • Emergency Numbers:

    • Police: 100

    • Ambulance: 101

    • Fire: 102

    • Tourist Police: Dial 100 and ask for English assistance

  • Security Checks: Expect bag checks at malls, train stations, and public buildings

Israel uses 230V/50Hz power with Type H plugs (three flat pins in a triangle).

  • Some appliances from Europe may work without adapters.

  • Visitors from the U.S. will need a voltage converter and a plug adapter.

Tap water in Israel is safe to drink, including in cities and most rural areas.

  • At restaurants, you may need to ask for water: say “Mayim, bevakasha.”

  • Bottled water is affordable and widely available if preferred.

Many businesses, public transport, and attractions close on Jewish holidays, especially in Jerusalem.
Key holidays include:

  • Passover (March/April): Week-long; limited bread products.

  • Yom Kippur (September/October): No transport or TV; streets are eerily quiet.

  • Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year, Sept): Two-day observance.

  • Independence Day (April/May): Celebrated with fireworks and BBQs.

  • Sabbath (Shabbat): From Friday sunset to Saturday night, many services shut down in religious areas.

  • Malls/Stores: Sunday–Thursday, ~09:00–21:00. Friday: close early (before sunset).

  • Markets (Shuks): Open mornings until early afternoon (e.g., Mahane Yehuda).

  • Pharmacies: Super-Pharm is common; some branches open 24/7.

  • Note: Tel Aviv remains lively on weekends, while Jerusalem slows down for Shabbat.

  • Sabich: Pita stuffed with fried eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, tahini, and pickles.

  • Shakshuka: Poached eggs in spicy tomato sauce—perfect for breakfast.

  • Falafel: Deep-fried chickpea balls—ubiquitous and vegan-friendly.

  • Hummus: Creamy chickpea spread—try with warm pita and olive oil.

  • Jachnun: Yemenite Jewish pastry—slow-cooked and served with tomato dip.

  • Kebabs: Charcoal-grilled meats—lamb and beef are popular.

  • Bourekas: Flaky pastry filled with potato, cheese, or mushroom.

  • Meorav Yerushalmi: “Jerusalem mixed grill”—a hearty street food dish.

  • Knafeh: Sweet semolina and cheese dessert soaked in syrup—iconic in Arab communities.

  • Malabi: Creamy rosewater pudding topped with coconut and nuts.

Alcoholic:

  • Golan Heights Wine: Award-winning Israeli wines from Galilee—try the Cabernet Sauvignon.

  • Carmel Winery: One of Israel’s oldest—producing robust reds and elegant whites.

  • Tishbi Wines: Boutique family winery with kosher vintages.

  • Goldstar: Israel’s most beloved dark lager—malty and rich.

  • Maccabee Beer: Lighter, crisper alternative to Goldstar.

  • Arak: Anise-flavored Middle Eastern spirit—traditionally diluted with water.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Limonana: Mint-lemon slush—ultra-refreshing and perfect for hot days.

  • Pomegranate Juice: Fresh-pressed and antioxidant-rich—sold at markets.

  • Sahlab: Hot milk pudding drink flavored with orchid root and cinnamon.

  • Fresh Mint Tea: Often served in cafes—sweet and soothing.

  • Date Shake: Found in desert regions—made with local dates and milk or yogurt.

  • Yad Vashem: Israel’s Holocaust memorial and museum—emotionally powerful.

  • Baha’i Gardens in Haifa: Terraced gardens with stunning views.

  • Western Wall Tunnels: Underground passages in Jerusalem’s Old City.

  • Nazareth & Galilee: Biblical sites with strong Christian significance.

  • Tel Aviv Bauhaus District: UNESCO World Heritage architecture.

  • Druze Villages: Experience hospitality and food in towns like Daliyat el-Carmel.

  • Safed (Tzfat): A mystical hill town, known for Kabbalah and art.

  • Jaffa Port: One of the world’s oldest ports—now a vibrant area with galleries and cafés.

  • Mount of Olives: Incredible views over Jerusalem, steeped in history.

  • Eilat Coral Beach: Southern tip of Israel, famous for snorkeling and marine life.

  • Beaches: Tel Aviv’s coastline is lively, with great promenades and sunset views.

  • Dead Sea Float: A surreal experience—don’t shave right before!

  • Masada Sunrise Hike: Panoramic views over the Judean Desert.

  • Jerusalem’s Old City: Explore the Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and Dome of the Rock.

  • Rooftop Bars in Tel Aviv: Check out SuraMare or Speakeasy for great views and cocktails.

  • Art Museums: Tel Aviv Museum of Art, Israel Museum (Jerusalem).

  • Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel): A sensory overload of food, spices, and energy.

  • Nightlife: Florentin (Tel Aviv) for live music, Jaffa for cozy wine bars.

  • Negev Desert Stargazing: Clear night skies, especially near Mitzpe Ramon.

  • Yitzhak Rabin Center: Modern museum telling Israel’s complex story.

  • Rothschild 12: Tel Aviv bar with cocktails, DJs, and an indie crowd.

  • Imperial Cocktail Bar: Award-winning mixology and speakeasy vibes.

  • The Prince: Rooftop lounge in Tel Aviv—try the citrusy gin cocktails.

  • Kuli Alma: Art-filled nightlife hotspot with dance floors and food trucks.

  • Teder.FM: Bar-meets-radio-station with craft beers and vinyl tunes.

  • Satchmo Jazz Club: Intimate venue in Jerusalem—smooth sounds and great whiskey.

  • Brown TLV Rooftop: Views of the city, designer drinks, and sunset vibes.

  • Shpagat: LGBTQ+-friendly venue—welcoming and always upbeat.

  • Beer Bazaar: Located in Tel Aviv’s Carmel Market—local microbrews on tap.

  • Anna Loulou Bar: Jaffa institution with eclectic music and a loyal crowd.

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