Israel — Where History Meets the Holy

Walk through sacred cities, explore ancient wonders, float in the Dead Sea, and experience a land rich in faith, heritage, and Mediterranean charm.

General Info

You might have many questions about your visit to Israel. Is it safe, what do I wear, cell phones, wi-fi, health, water, language… We have tried to answer most of the more common Israel travel questions here, and provide information about the more common areas of concern or query. This Israel travel information article is arranged alphabetically, if we haven’t answered your question, feel free to get in touch.
 

Cell Phones in Israel

Most international cell phones will work in Israel, although it is often worth renting a cell phone as this reduces the cost significantly.
 

Climate

The most comfortable times to visit are Spring (March, April and May) when temperatures are on average in the low 20’s and Autumn (September, October and November) when temperatures are in the high 20’s in the center of the country. Temperatures are generally higher in the South of the country and the Galilee area.
The Winter months are still mild in Israel, although there are often storms in the coastal areas in December and January, and sometimes even snow in Jerusalem and the Galilee.
Israel is hot in the Summer with average temperatures in the center of the country over 30C and closer to 40C in the South and Galilee.
 

Clothes in Israel

Packing for any trip can be challenging – especially for first-time travelers. Packing for Israel is not as difficult as some might think! Given the relatively temperate weather year-round, packing for Israel can be easy no matter the season. If you’re asking yourself: “what clothes should I wear in Israel?”
In general, Israel is a progressive and relaxed country, and casual clothing is suitable for almost any setting. Jeans, t-shirts, shorts, and comfortable shoes are ideal for most situations. If you’re traveling in Israel on business, casual dress is common!
 

Currency

New Israeli Shequel (NIS). 100 Agarot make up 1 Shequel. See here for exchange rates.
 

Dialing code

+00 972
 

Emergency Numbers –

Police (mish-ta-ra) 100; Medical emergency (Magen David Adom (MDA/MADA) 101; Fire (me-kha-BEY ESH) 102
 

Electricity

220 volts AC, 50 cycles. An adapter is necessary (usually 3 pronged)
 

Health

No immunizations are required for travel to Israel. Health facilities are widely available across the country, with many hospitals being global leaders! Doctors are also widely available and a high proportion speak English. The biggest health risk in visiting Israel, like any other country with a hot climate, is the sun, so make sure you take precautions to protect yourself.
 

Internet Access/Wi-Fi in Israel

Israel is very technologically advanced. Wireless networks can be found up and down the country, everywhere from restaurants and cafes, to hotels, and even Ben Gurion Airport. The standard rate for wi-fi in Israel is between 10 and 15 NIS per hour. It is, however, free in many places, including Arcaffe, Aroma, and Yellow cafes, brances of McDonald’s and Ben Gurion Airport. Often staff need to give you a password.
In Jerusalem, some sections, mostly of the city center are covered by the Jerusalem WiFi project, whilst a similar project is underway in Tel Aviv.
If you don’t have a laptop of your own, internet cafes can also be found across the country, whilst most hotels, from city hotels to kibbutz hotels have computers available to guests, often for free. Getting online is not a problem in Israel
 

Language

Hebrew and Arabic are official; English is widely spoken, as, to lesser degrees are Russian and French
 

Maps

Road maps are widely available, many in English. Google Maps has a great coverage of Israel, whilst Israeli app Waze offers real-time travel information and GPS for free.
 

Time Zone

GMT +2 Hours
 

Safety in Israel – Is Israel safe?

YES is the simple answer, as much as we can say anywhere is safe. There are two aspects to safety. Firstly, the risk from Israel is really very small, especially if you stay away from the border with Gaza which you are unlikely to go near anyway. In the cities or across the rest of the country, terrorist attacks have reduced dramatically.
In terms of personal safety, the crime rate, especially violent and extreme crime, is much lower in Israeli cities than the US or even European cities, and it is safe for women to walk in most places alone at night.
 

Shabbat/Saturdays

Shabbat is the one day of the week when travel in Israel is harder. Public transport is very limited and with exceptions, impossible. This reduces your options to taxi, sherut or car hire (which should be collected on Friday and returned on Sunday). Trains don’t operate at all, however, between sun-down on Friday and sun-down on Saturday.
 

Water

Tap water is safe to drink across Israel, although bottled water is widely available as an alternative. The tap water in Jerusalem and the south contains particulate meaning that it is possible that it might lead to mild stomach problems.
 

Tipping

Tipping in Israel is discretionary but expected, similar to most of the Western world. The Going rate is between 10-15% with 10% being the lowest, 12% average and 15% for great service (although if you wish to tip more, nobody will complain!)
Defining Israeli culture is a difficult task: it is a fascinating and unique blend of cuisines and customs, ethnicities and religions, the old and the new. Indeed, the best way to learn about Israel’s culture and its idiosyncrasies is to experience it first-hand, and this guide should help you prepare for that.
 

Israeli culture is a concoction of influences

Israel is a truly unique melting pot of cultures. Over the last 100 years or so, from the pre-state era to post-1948, Jews have immigrated to Israel and brought with them their cultures and customs. Its Jewish population originates from all over the world: Russia, Poland, Brazil, Ethiopia, Morocco, Iraq, and Yemen are just some of the places that Israelis originate from.
Thus, from cuisine to celebrations, contemporary Israeli society is a fascinating mix of Eastern and Western influences that have amalgamated to form some kind of shared Israeli culture. Add to that Israel’s sizeable Arab (both Muslim and Christian) population and other ethnic minorities, and you can see the diversity that exists!
 

Israeli “rudeness” is due to the Hebrew language

Israelis are often perceived by foreigners as brash and aggressive. However (most of the time), this is not the case. It is an outcome of the Hebrew language, which is characterized by its brevity and commanding nature. Whereas an English speaker might say, “Please may I get some water?” an Israeli would say “Efshar mayim”? literally meaning “It’s possible, water?” An English speaker might say ‘No thank you’ in response to being offered tea, while it would be acceptable in Israel to reply simply with lo (no).
Politeness in Hebrew tends to come through intonation rather than words such as please and thank you. According to Guy Sharett, host of the popular “StreetWise Hebrew” podcast, Israelis also believe that an excessive use of polite words displays a lack of closeness to the other person. Don’t let the lack of niceties give you the wrong impression!
 

Israelis are open and hospitable

Israelis–whether they are Jewish, Muslim, Christian, or Druze–tend to be extremely warm and hospitable people. Walk into a carpet store in Daliat El Carmel, Israel’s largest Druze village, and you will most likely be greeted with kisses, handshakes, and sweets. Tell a Jewish Israeli you want to experience a Shabbat dinner but don’t have anywhere to go, and you will be invited before finishing your sentence. If a worker comes round to your house to fix something and you fail to offer him coffee or tea, he will be offended, Hospitality is an important part of Israeli culture!
 

It’s Westernised – to an extent

Israel, and especially Tel Aviv, contains strong elements of Western culture and English is widely spoken. However, it still has its own fundamentally Middle Eastern culture, which is especially strong when you venture out of the main cities and into the peripheries. Even in Tel Aviv, it is not unusual to see a horse and cart navigating busy roads, and many aspects of Western etiquette don’t exist, such as waiting in line in an orderly fashion or waiting for people to get off trains before barging on. Another cultural idiosyncrasy is the staring. Israelis, from grandmothers to teenage boys, stare – a lot – and even if you catch them and exchange eye contact, chances are they will continue. Try not to feel self-conscious.
 

Israelis are highly affectionate people

Israelis, particularly mizrahim (Jews of Arab or North African descent), are extremely affectionate and expressive, much more so than people tend to be in the Anglosphere. Men greet each other with ahi (my brother), while hugs, kisses, and endless endearments such as haim sheli (my life) and neshama sheli (my soul), are generously handed out.
 

Israel is a mix of secularism and religion

Contemporary Israeli society is a fascinating mix of religion and secularism, and sometimes the two clash heads. Orthodox Judaism holds an institutionalized influence over various aspects of Israeli life, a result of an early compromise by the socialist founding Prime Minister, David Ben Gurion.
However, despite its significant tussle with religious elements, secularism and liberalism dominate in Israel. Examples of this can be found throughout the country, from the wild Midburn Festival in the Negev Desert and the Middle East’s biggest gay pride festival in Tel Aviv, to the government’s firm backing of Israel’s medical cannabis industry and decriminalisation of recreational use. Oh, and pork dishes can be found throughout the country – even Jerusalem.

Top Things to do in Israel

Forget what you may have heard, and check our Israel bucket list for the must-dos in Israel for your trip. Israel is a small but diverse country that offers unique attractions to travelers of all ages and backgrounds. Whatever the purpose of your trip, this amazing country has something for everyone! Israel offers scenic desert landscapes, lush forests, breathtaking beaches, and some of the most important historic sites in the world. Travelers from all around the globe visit Israel every year for a wide variety of reasons, but you can always expect one thing- the unexpected!

Get some vitamin “SEA”, get baked at the beaches!

 

Spanning the gorgeous Mediterranean coast, the beaches in Israel are some of the most beautiful in the world. You can spot surfers, sunbathers, and always hear the constant “tapping” of Matkot (Israeli beach ping-pong). Whether you are looking for a relaxing moment of quiet and serenity, or want a chance to splash and swim, there are enough options to suit everyone’s interests. Here are some of our favorite spots for your Israel bucket list.

Central & Northen Beaches

  • Tel Aviv Beaches: There are many beaches to choose from in Tel Aviv and no matter where you end up, you will be satisfied. A few of our favs include Banana Beach, Gordon-Frishman Beach, Alma Beach, and Hilton Beach. Whatever you are in the mood for, they all have one thing in common – sunshine and a stunning view!
  • If you want to head north towards Caesarea, you will also find a special and unique experience at the Caesarea Aqueduct Beach. This beach offers a more quiet experience. It’s also hard to miss the ancient Roman aqueduct along the beach. Check out our popular Caesarea, Wine Country, and Kibbutz Experience Tour as well as the Caesarea, Haifa, Akko and Rosh Hanikra tour.

Southern Beaches

  • Eilat Beaches: If you are down south in Eilat, the beach vibe is a little different on the Red Sea. The temperatures can get hotter down south. With an awe-inspiring backdrop of the Eilat mountains, the beach in Eilat offers a special view.
  • While down South in Eilat, although it may not be a “beach” we also recommend checking out the Dolphin Reef. Fun for the whole family, the reef offers the opportunity to swim with the dolphins, while marveling at these amazing sea mammals.
  • The Dead Sea is also an absolute must-do while visiting Israel. It’s the perfect way to spend the day at the beach! Instead of relaxing on the sandy beach, you can float your troubles away in the salty, healing waters

Step Into Past Historical Sites

Israel is filled with impressive, important, and inspiring historical bucket list sites that are special for Jews, Christians, and Muslims. Whatever your background, you can spend hours getting lost in learning about what happened so many years ago in these places.
 

Ancient History

 

  • Old City in Jerusalem: Exploring the endless winding streets in the quarters of the Old City belongs on any Israel bucket list. From the Western Wall to the Via Dolorosa, there are thousands of years of history filled through these magnificent sites. Why not spend a day with a knowledgeable guide who can enhance the experience? Explore with our Jerusalem Day Tour or as an extended trip with our Jerusalem, Dead Sea, Bethlehem, & More Tour.
  • Masada: This notable and famous fortress, situated near the Dead Sea, is certainly one of the must-dos in Israel. You can take the Snake Path or the cable car to ascend to the top. We highly recommend visiting this important site. Want to watch the sunrise atop the fortress? Why not join our sunrise tour or even a yoga sunrise tour for a once in a lifetime way to start your day!
  • Megiddo: Located in the Lower Galilee Region, this ancient city is notable for its importance in history, and it’s key in the story of Armageddon. Megiddo is situated in the northern entrance to the Wadi Ara, this is the area connecting the Jezreel Valley.
  • Underground City: Located beneath the streets of the Old City of Jerusalem, go belowground to explore these unique tunnels. They showcase some unforgettable Jewish sites.

Less Ancient History

  • Independence Hall Tel Aviv: If you are spending a day in Tel Aviv, stroll down Rothschild Boulevard and stop at Independence Hall. This is where the Israeli Declaration of Independence was signed.
  • Church of the Nativity: Be sure to visit this prominent site located in Bethlehem. The church contains the grotto where Jesus was born, and continues to be worshipped and adored by Christians worldwide. It is a special site for all travelers, regardless of religion. Make your way to the Church and other sites.

Nature & Wildlife in Israel

 

While the cities offer endless options for what to do in Israel, it’s always nice to venture out into the great outdoors! Israel delivers a range of diverse options across its storied sands. Pack your bag, grab your walking shoes, and venture out to see the gorgeous natural beauty!

  • Ein Gedi Nature Reserve: The natural beauty and wonder found in Ein Gedi make it a must-see on our bucket list. A great escape for the day, it offers an opportunity to hike along multiple paths.
  • Safari Park Ramat Gan: Another great spot for family fun, but can be enjoyed by all ages. This park houses the most extensive group of animals in the Middle East. It is also a great spot to relax and have a picnic!
  • Rosh Hanikra: This impressive geological formation located north near the Lebanon border offers breathtaking views of the wonders in the grottoes. Make a day of it and spend the day on a tour in the northern region of Israel.
  • Bahai Gardens: While up North, also be sure to stop in Haifa and visit the Bahai Gardens. They’re immaculately manicured and perfectly gorgeous gardens with a stunning view of the sea. Make a quick stop on our day tour to Haifa, or travel there on your own to spend a full day exploring this lush, beautiful garden.
  • Timna Park: It’s a truly breathtaking and unique experience to travel through this attraction, located in the south of Israel. We offer several Timna tour options which makes seeing this park much easier and allows you to maximize your experience.

Museums, From Art to History

 
Israel houses some of the most impressive museums, from modern and contemporary art to details from history. Whatever your interests, there are many museums to visit. It is also a great alternative when the weather gets hot or rainy.

Favorites Museums

 

  • Eretz Israel Museum: Offering both archaeological and historical exhibits, and located in Ramat Aviv with a stunning city view.
  • Design Museum Holon: Noted for its innovative design features, and constantly changing the displays to offer creative visions.
  • Israel Museum: A cultural institution in Jerusalem, and one of the world leaders, in art and archaeology, a definite must see in Israel.
  • Yad Vashem: Israel’s Holocaust Museum and the country’s largest Holocaust memorial located in Jerusalem – it’s also included in the Jerusalem Old City and Yad Vashem Tours.
  • Tel Aviv Museum of Art: Housing a wide range of art exhibits, it also happens to be open on Saturdays. Belongs on any art lover’s bucket list for Israel!
  • Steinhardt Museum of Natural History in Tel Aviv: The museum showcases natural wonders and living organisms of Israel through interactive exhibits and highlights the implications of urban development, climate change, and the ever-changing ecosystems found throughout the region.

Some ‘must do’ in Israel

  • Experience the urban vibe of the iconic “White City” by joining a Tel Aviv Urban Tour. From the famous Bauhaus buildings situated throughout the city to the street art scene, there is much to be discovered in Tel Aviv.
  • Eat hummus! Eating hummus belongs on any Israel bucket list. Many hummus joints will claim they have the best. Try out a few hummus options and compare, try to find your favorite style!
  • Ride a camel. You can visit the Negev area with one of our Negev tours. Enjoy these amazing animals! We promise it’s an experience you will not forget.
  • Sleep in a Bedouin tent beneath the expansive desert skies. Why not take a trip to Petra while in Israel? Did you know Tourist Israel offers 1, 2 and 3-day tours to Petra and Wadi Rum daily from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem? What a great way to enjoy an authentic Bedouin experience.
  • Test out your bargaining skills. Whether visiting the Shuk in the Old City of Jerusalem, or Shuk Hacarmel in Tel Aviv, it is an experience unto itself. Haggle with the street vendors and get the best price!

Take a trip from Israel to Petra

 

Why not take a day trip from Israel to Petra and explore the amazing beauty and magic of nearby Jordan? It is easier than most travelers think to travel between the two countries, and can be done in one day. There are also options to spend several days in Jordan, exploring other highlights like the breathtaking Wadi Rum Desert, with overnight accommodation in a Bedouin camp or a visit to the capital city of Amman.

Places to visit in Israel

From the wave-lapped beaches of Tel Aviv to the craggy peaks of Masada and the mirror-like expanse of the salty Dead Sea, Israel packs a lot of impressive scenery into its compact landscape. Take a few days to enjoy the cosmopolitan delights of its thriving cities, then strike out into the sun-baked wilds to fill your Instagram grid. Here’s our pick of Israel’s most beautiful places to visit.

Mount Tabor

Even if you’re not familiar with its significance in the Bible, Mount Tabor is sure to impress. With its distinctive curve, rising above the pancake-flat Jezreel Valley, it is easy to spot from miles away. It’s actually only about 600m (1,968ft) high – although it looks taller in this landscape – and its accessibility makes it a natural spot for hiking through lush pine forest. This is also Israel’s most popular spot for paragliding – a hotspot for thrill-seekers.

Red Canyon

A 20-minute drive from the popular Red Sea resort of Eliat, a hike through the Red Canyon feels like you’re on another planet – Mars, to be precise – as you zig-zag your way along a path carved through swirling rock. When the sun hits, it illuminates red, white and even yellow. With multiple route options it caters for all kinds of walkers. Ty the easy green trail if you’ve got kids in tow, or the black for a more challenging descent.

Timna Park

Parched and photogenic, rugged Timna Park is an essential stop-off point in Israel’s impressive Negev Desert. It’s not just its good looks, the attraction also lies in its rich regional history. Here you’ll find the world’s first ever copper mine and remains of smelting furnaces dating back to ancient Egyptian times. The artful sandstone columns known as Solomon’s Pillars – basically frozen-in-time drips of volcanic magma emerging from the cliffs – are arguably the most impressive natural highlight. Camp overnight and enjoy amazing stargazing.

Valley of Elah

The site of the famous battle between David and Goliath, this triangle-shaped valley – lush with green fields – provides a surprisingly gentle hike. Many visitors choose to come with a guide so they can hear the biblical tale while touring the landscape but you can just as easily enjoy a spring visit on your own when the valley is filled with purple blooming lupines.

Mount Zion

Outside the old walls of Jerusalem, Mount Zion is a holy site for Jewish, Christian and Muslim worshippers alike. Packed with beautiful old buildings and famous spots including King David’s Tomb and the Room of the Last Supper, it’s a must-visit for history buffs as well as religious pilgrims. It’s especially atmospheric to arrive late in the afternoon, when the hues of some surrounding architecture turn golden in the honeyed light. Pack your camera!

Acre

Various cultures have inhabited Acre – or Akko – throughout its history, including the Crusaders and the Ottomans, each leaving their mark on the region. With fascinating architecture, cultural ruins and sights around every corner, this city in the north west is essential viewing on any Israel trip. Take a romantic evening walk alongside the 2,000-year-old port, relax into a meal at one of the lovely local restaurants – keep an eye open for the irresistible crunchy-syrupy pudding kanafeh on menus – or have a leisurely stroll through the city markets.

Nazareth

An hour or so’s drive from Tel Aviv in the Lower Galilee region of northern Israel, Nazareth is the biggest Arab city in the land. It is also a major spiritual destination for tourists and Christian pilgrims from around the world, who come here to witness the Basilica of the Annunciation built where Joseph and Mary had their home. In addition to its religious value as the childhood home of Jesus, Nazareth is a city brimming with culture, history, old Ottoman architecture and fascinating archaeology. Prepare for a heady rush of Middle Eastern charm.

Sea of Galilee

The Sea of Galilee (or, as Israelis call it, the Kinneret) is the largest freshwater lake in the country and a major national supply source. Its history goes way back. According to the New Testament, many of Jesus’ miracles occurred here, including his walk on the water. Today, visitors to the Sea of Galilee can immerse themselves in the tranquillity of its beautiful environs, have fun building rafts, or enjoy motorboat trips, water-skiing, banana-boat rides and kayaking.

Golan Heights

Northern Israel is home to the Golan Heights, controversially captured from Syria in 1967. It is a beautiful, mountainous place with breathtaking landscapes, glorious nature reserves and intriguing historical attractions for the whole family. If hiking is your thing, there are paths of varying levels of difficulty, depending on the time of year. Things are especially impressive during spring, when irises, crocuses and tulips bloom abundantly and the fields are green. In winter, Hermon Mountain is a playground for skiers and snowboarders.

Haifa

Northern Israel is home to the Golan Heights, controversially captured from Syria in 1967. It is a beautiful, mountainous place with breathtaking landscapes, glorious nature reserves and intriguing historical attractions for the whole family. If hiking is your thing, there are paths of varying levels of difficulty, depending on the time of year. Things are especially impressive during spring, when irises, crocuses and tulips bloom abundantly and the fields are green. In winter, Hermon Mountain is a playground for skiers and snowboarders.

Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is a dream city beside the Mediterranean, where vibrant nightlife and local markets meet mouth-watering food and photogenic architecture – visit the Bauhaus-style buildings of the White City if you want some seriously sexy Instagram images. Society here is diverse and people are very open-minded, so you’ll find your place here whoever you are. As Israel’s entertainment centre, Tel Aviv offers a full calendar of events throughout the year. These include the Gay Pride Parade, Purim Street Party and Tel Aviv Fashion Week.

Jerusalem

Home to important spiritual sites for three major religions – Islam, Christianity and Judaism – Jerusalem is one of the world’s holiest cities. Come for a few days and you’ll feel as if you’ve travelled back centuries. In the Old City, surrounded by a grand wall, you can learn a lot about Jerusalem’s religious history by visiting places such as the Al Aqsa Mosque, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Western Wall (aka the Wailing Wall). This part of town is divided into four quarters: Muslim, Armenian, Christian and Jewish. If you can, visit one of the museums outside the Old City, such as Yad Vashem, a Holocaust remembrance centre.

Ramon Crater

Head to Mitzpe Ramon, a town in the Negev desert midway between Jerusalem and Eilat, and you’ll be able to visit the Ramon Crater (Makhtesh Ramon in Hebrew). It’s not technically a crater – that would have involved a meteorite – but rather a makteshim (erosion cirque), formed during millions of years of erosion. Discovered as recently as 1945, it is quite a beast: 40km (25mi) long and 10km (6mi) at its widest point. You can tour by Jeep, Segway, or even helicopter, but a hot-air balloon flight will give you the most spectacular views from on high.

The Dead Sea

The lowest point on earth, at more than 430m (1,412ft) below sea level, the Dead Sea is not only fun to float in, it’s also healthy, historic and surrounded by breathtaking beauty. This endorheic lake, which has no outflow, is one of the saltiest bodies of water on earth, creating the perfect buoyancy for floating. Dead Sea mud is also great for your skin, so slather it on. Two sights not to be missed while you’re in the Dead Sea area are Masada, with its archaeological merit and amazing views, and Ein Gedi, a twinkling oasis in the desert.

Eilat

After you’ve explored Israel, taking in history, nature and culture, Eilat is all about relaxing in its many beautiful hotels and resorts. In the very south of Israel, it offers many activities: go diving among the stunning coral reefs of the Red Sea, swim with dolphins or laze by the pool. Beware, summer temperatures can be more than 40C (104F); in winter it’s a more tolerable 19C (66.2F).

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