NORTHERN ISRAEL
This land is a majestic tapestry of biblical history, ancient ruins, and stunning natural wonders.
From the lush mountains of the Galilee to the shores of the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret) and the dramatic Golan Heights, this guide helps you explore the heartland of faith and the country’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Why Visit Northern Israel?
Biblical Sites: Walk the land where Jesus ministered, with key sites like Capernaum, Nazareth, and the Jordan River.
Stunning Nature: Discover mountains, waterfalls, and lakes, offering the best opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and outdoor adventure.
The Golan Heights: Explore a region of unique geological and historical significance, famous for its boutique wineries and incredible views.
Smart Travel
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): The ideal time for hiking and outdoor activities. The weather is pleasantly warm, and the landscape is lush in spring and early autumn.
Deep Off-Season (November-March): Offers cooler temperatures, perfect for sightseeing without the summer crowds. The Golan Heights may experience rain or even snow.
Peak Season (June-August): The weather is very hot and humid, especially around the Sea of Galilee. Expect crowds, higher prices, and plan activities for the early morning or late afternoon.
Main Areas & Places to Explore
The Galilee (HaGalil)
The Galilee is the green, mountainous heart of Northern Israel, home to the key cities of Nazareth and Tiberias. It is famous for its rolling hills, ancient ruins, and the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret), which is central to the New Testament story.
Your Smart Tip: To experience the region’s spiritual history, rent a car and follow the Jesus Trail, a 65-kilometer pilgrimage route connecting many historical sites.
The Sea of Galilee (Yam Kinneret)
Israel’s largest freshwater lake is a major spiritual and recreational hub. The surrounding area includes ancient fishing villages, Christian holy sites like the Mount of Beatitudes, and thermal springs. It is a fantastic spot for boating and swimming.
Your Smart Tip: For a unique and delicious meal, try the famous St. Peter’s Fish (Tilapia) at one of the lakeside restaurants, a local specialty in Tiberias.
The Golan Heights (Ramat HaGolan)
This dramatic plateau offers spectacular views, rugged volcanic landscapes, and significant military history. It is a hub for high-quality boutique wineries, cherry and apple orchards, and excellent hiking, including to Mount Hermon, Israel’s highest peak.
Your Smart Tip: Combine history and nature by visiting the ancient Roman city of Hippos (Sussita) for an incredible panorama of the Sea of Galilee.
Acre (Akko) & Haifa
Acre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its remarkably preserved Crusader City beneath the modern streets. Haifa is a vibrant port city known for the beautiful terraced Baháʼí Gardens and Shrine, a symbol of modern Israel.
Your Smart Tip: Dedicate at least half a day to exploring the underground halls and tunnels of the Old City of Acre. They truly transport you back to the Crusader era.
Handy Tips
Weather & Climate
The climate is Mediterranean, but with significant variation. Summers are hot and humid, especially around the Sea of Galilee. Winters are mild but can be rainy. The higher elevations of the Golan Heights and Upper Galilee are much cooler and may get snow.
Local Customs And Etiquette
Language: The main languages are Hebrew and Arabic. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic phrases in Hebrew is appreciated.
Dress Code: When visiting religious sites (churches, synagogues, mosques), ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. For hiking, modest, light clothing is the norm.
Tipping: Tipping in restaurants is customary (usually 12–15% if service is not included). For taxis, rounding up is common.
Budgeting For Your Trip
Accommodation: Hostels ($25–$50), mid-range hotels ($90–$150), luxury ($200+). Prices are highest near the Sea of Galilee in summer.
Food: Shawarma/Falafel street food ($8–$15), lunch at a café ($15–$25 per person), dinner at a mid-range restaurant ($30–$50 per person).
Transport: Intercity bus ticket ($5–$15), car rental ($35/day).
Activities: Entrance to National Parks ($8–$12), short guided tour ($30+).
Daily Budget:
- Budget: $70–$110 (hostels, street food, public transport).
- Mid-range: $120–$180 (hotels, restaurants, attractions).
- Luxury: $250+ (boutique hotels, gourmet meals, private tours).
Getting Around
By Car: A car is highly recommended for exploring the Galilee and Golan Heights, as it provides the flexibility to reach remote nature sites and ancient ruins.
By Bus: The national bus company, Egged, offers an extensive and reliable network connecting all major towns and cities in the region.
By Shared Taxi (Sherut): Shared taxis operate on set routes between cities and are a good, affordable option for intercity travel.
Must-Try Food
St. Peter’s Fish (Musht): Freshwater fish, typically Tilapia, from the Sea of Galilee, usually fried whole with lemon and herbs.
Knafeh (k’nah-fay): A popular, traditional dessert made with thin noodle-like pastry, soaked in a sweet, sugary syrup, and layered with cheese.
Pita Bread with Za’atar (zah-tar): Freshly baked pita topped with a blend of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac mixed with olive oil.
Labaneh (lah-bah-neh): Thick, tangy strained yogurt cheese, often served with olive oil and spices.
Druze Pita: Large, thin pita bread cooked on a saj (domed griddle), often filled with labaneh and za’atar. Try it at a Druze village in the Carmel or Galilee.
Hummus and Msabbaha (m’sah-bah-hah): Creamy chickpea dip, often served warm with whole chickpeas and spices. A breakfast or lunch staple.
Shakshuka (shak-shoo-kah): Eggs poached in a rich, spicy tomato sauce, often served in a pan with bread for dipping.
Malabi (mah-lah-bee): A sweet, creamy milk pudding flavored with rose water and topped with sweet syrup, coconut, and nuts.
Halva (hahl-vah): A dense, sweet confection made from sesame paste (tahini), commonly sold in markets in flavors like pistachio or vanilla.
Falafel: Deep-fried balls of ground chickpeas and spices, served in a pita with salad and tahini.
Must-Try Drinks
Golan Heights Wine: The region’s unique volcanic soil produces excellent, internationally recognized red and white wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
Arak (ah-rock): A traditional anise-flavored alcoholic drink, clear like water, that turns milky white when mixed with water and ice.
Goldstar Beer: Israel’s most popular native lager, served on tap everywhere.
Fresh Pomegranate Juice: Widely available at market stalls, especially in autumn, and is intensely sweet and refreshing.
Fresh Mint Tea (Na’ana): Brewed with fresh sprigs of mint, often served sweet, and is a staple in both Arab and Jewish homes and restaurants.
Iced Coffee (Café Kar): Extremely popular in the hot summer months, often a blend of instant coffee, milk, sugar, and ice.
Lemonade with Mint (Limonana): A simple, refreshing drink of fresh lemonade blended with mint leaves, perfect for hot weather.
Boutique Galilee Beer: Local craft breweries in the Galilee and Golan Heights are gaining popularity, offering unique local brews.
Sabra Liqueur: A chocolate-orange liqueur, named after the native Israeli cactus fruit.
Grape Juice: Freshly squeezed or pressed, especially popular during wine-making season in the Golan.