israel tourist place

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Israel and the Palestinian Territories

Written by Jess Lee Updated May 13, 2023

Home to some of the world's most famous religious tourist attractions , Israel and the Palestinian Territories is often thought of purely as a pilgrimage destination. After all, this is where some of the main events for those of the Jewish, Muslim, and Christian faiths is said to have happened.

But for travelers not seeking out religious sightseeing within the churches, synagogues, and mosques, there are plenty of other things to do.

The Dead Sea is a bizarre natural wonder where you can't sink. The Galilee region's natural beauty ticks all the boxes for those who want to hike in nature. And the Negev Desert's raw and rocky landscapes are ripe for adventure and one of the best places to visit if you're seeking some dusty action and outdoor things to do.

Sure, the religious sites here will always be the main draw card for a visit, but scratch below the surface, and you'll find there's so much more.

To help plan your itinerary, check out our list of the top tourist attractions in Israel and the Palestinian Territories.

1. Jerusalem Old City

3. churches of nazareth, 5. the dead sea, 6. bethlehem, 7. timna park, 8. sea of galilee, 10. mar saba monastery, 11. beit shean, 12. jericho, 14. makhtesh ramon, map of tourist attractions in israel and the palestinian territories.

Aching with the weight of history, Jerusalem has one of the world's most recognizable skylines, with the golden helmet of the Dome of the Rock glinting above the caramel-colored stone of the old city.

This ancient walled city holds deep religious significance for all those of the monotheistic faiths, and the labyrinthine alleyways inside are packed with religious sites and mind-boggling history.

Dodge the crowds of pilgrims and take a walk along the walls that still wrap around the old city. Explore the city's fabulous museums, and immerse yourself in the mazy lanes that kings, Crusaders, and conquerors have all fought over.

Jerusalem's many highlights enchant and confound in equal measures.

Jerusalem is all history. Tel Aviv is about modern dining and café culture. And Haifa just does its own thing.

Haifa's main attraction is the Baha'i Gardens , which tumble down the hillside towards the sea in a series of immaculate green terraces. They're a must-do for all travelers to this lovely city, but Haifa's big attraction for many visitors is that it's the perfect base to explore the north .

Akko, Mount Carmel and Caesarea are right on the doorstep, and even Nazareth and Megiddo could be easily done as a day trip from here.

Hands down the most easygoing city in the country, Haifa should be part of everyone's itinerary.

Forever linked to the story of Jesus in the Bible, Nazareth is one of the main pilgrimage destinations in the country.

The holy sites here are some of the most important in the world for those of the Christian faith. This is where the Annunciation took place, and where Jesus Christ was brought up, and the center of town is home to important churches that celebrate this history.

One of the most important tourist attractions in Nazareth is the Basilica of the Annunciation , but there are plenty of smaller sights in town to explore.

Away from the biblical connections, Nazareth's busy bazaar area, amid the twisty old city lanes, is a highlight in itself, always bustling with commerce.

A picturesque vision of honey-colored stone, Jaffa is a chilled-out little harbor town with an illustrious past as a major port.

Made for aimless wandering and home to an excellent flea market , Jaffa provides an old-world-style respite from the modern thrum of Tel Aviv next door.

The muddle of lanes leading down to the sea, where once the great ships of the ancient Mediterranean empires docked, are now a haven for café-hopping and a lazy afternoon of sightseeing in Jaffa .

Jaffa has been thoroughly gentrified in recent years, with small art galleries, craft shops, and restaurants moving in. On weekends, it's a busy center for outdoor dining and shopping.

The lowest point on earth and one of the world's most wacky natural wonders, the Dead Sea is the mineral-rich and overly salty sea where no one can sink.

Locked in by the cliffs of the Great Rift Valley, this bizarre body of water (where natural buoyancy occurs due to the rate of evaporation causing the high salt content) has been wowing travelers for centuries.

A handful of "beach resort" areas along the Dead Sea shoreline provide facilities, with cafés, bathrooms, and the all important freshwater showers to wash the saltwater off you afterwards, for those who want to take a dip.

Take a float — you can't really sink — and you'll be won over by the weirdness of this experience, as generations of visitors have before you.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Dead Sea Region

A major Christian pilgrimage center, Bethlehem is home to the Church of the Nativity , built over the site where Jesus Christ is said to have been born. It's one of the top sights in Bethlehem .

The stately church complex with its far-reaching historical significance, and the busy market vibe of the bazaar make this the number one highlight of the West Bank.

Although many travelers only come here as a day trip from Jerusalem, the town is an excellent place to base yourself for excursions into the surrounding countryside, with its Byzantine monasteries and sites related to events relayed in the New Testament.

Raw and rugged desert scenery at its best, Timna Park, near the Red Sea resort of Eilat, is one of the most beautiful corners of the Negev.

The landscapes here have a visceral quality, which enchants all who visit, with towering cliffs and surreally-shaped boulders set between vast tracts of multi-hued sand.

Timna's copper mining history (which stretches back to the ancient Egyptians) is also worth exploring; the area is full of ancient mine shafts and rock inscriptions that desert adventurers can seek out.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Eilat

The shoreline that wraps around the Sea of Galilee offers interesting attractions , gorgeous countryside, and bags of history.

Whether you're here to visit the churches of Tabgha, where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount and carried out much of his preaching, or you just want to soak in the hot pools near Tiberias and do some hiking, this beautiful region is a major highlight of any trip.

Don't miss taking a swim in the sea itself and soaking up the views across the lake on a hillside hike.

The mountaintop fortress of Masada, overlooking the rugged scenery of the Dead Sea region, is home to incredible vistas and some fascinating history.

This is where King Herod's once mighty palace stood and where the Zealots took their last stand against the Roman Legions.

If you're up for a hike, the winding Snake Path is the perfect way of reaching the top, with excellent panoramas all the way. It's one of the top things to do in Masada .

Otherwise, take the cable car and see the views without the sweat.

Mar Saba Monastery is an architectural marvel of the Byzantine age, precariously snuggled into the cliff face as if it had sprouted organically out of the sheer rock.

The monastery is dedicated to Saint Sabbas the Sanctified, a Greek Orthodox monk from Cappadocia who founded this monastery.

Although female travelers are not allowed to actually enter the monastery (except for the Women's Tower near the entrance), the view is enough of a reason to visit, with the metal domes glinting in the sun between the rock face.

An easy day trip option from Bethlehem or Jerusalem, Mar Saba Monastery is one of the Holy Land's great historic sites .

In a country full of ruins, Beit Shean stands out from the crowd for its excellent preservation.

Here, you can get a real feel for the life of a Roman and Byzantine town , with its colonnaded streets, well-restored theater, and extensive bathhouse remains.

Stroll the once mighty streets, explore the extensive ruins, and sit in the theater where the Roman city's cultural life was played out.

It's a fabulous slice of the ancient world that any history lover should see.

One of the most important historical sites in the West Bank , Jericho lays claim to being the world's oldest continuously inhabited city and has a history that can be traced back 10,000 years.

The archaeological site of Ancient Jericho (Tel Jericho) is right in town and after exploring this layered settlement mound, you can hop on the cable car from the site to the Monastery of Qurantal on the Mount of Temptation where, according to the New Testament, Jesus resisted the devil.

This is also a prime base in the Palestinian Territories, not just for exploring the attractions in Jericho , but for venturing further afield. In particular Hisham's Palace, with its famed Tree of Life mosaic, and the monasteries inside the canyon of Wadi Qelt.

Wrapped up in Crusader history, Akko (Acre to the Crusaders) has a mellow harbor full of colorful, bobbing fishing boats; a vibrant bazaar crammed with spice, produce, and interesting artisan products; and a truckload of history to boot.

The city walls, old khans (caravanserais), and fort remnants speak of another age, when this town was the center of the empire.

One of the most enjoyable towns to explore (who doesn't like a secret tunnel?), Akko is a great mix of historic sites and modern life.

This deep erosion cirque, (a crater-shaped steephead valley created by erosion), with the town of Mitzpe Ramon on its rim, is one of the Negev's major highlights .

From lookout points along the rim, the canyon walls plummet downwards for 300 meters, with dramatic vistas across the rock formations of the valley.

For the more active, Makhtesh Ramon is a national park, and various trails have been created leading down into the depths of the valley, making Makhtesh Ramon one of the best destinations for day hiking in the country.

There are other makhtesh in the Negev, but this one is the deepest and largest, measuring roughly eight kilometers wide and 40 meters long.

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The Most Beautiful 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 the thriving cities, then strike out into the sun-baked wilds to fill your Instagram grid. Here’s our pick of the most beautiful places to see when you visit Israel.

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Paraglide around Mount Tabor

Even if you’re not familiar with its religious significance, Mount Tabor is sure to impress. With a 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 the most popular spot for paragliding in Israel – ideal if you’re a thrill-seeker.

A 20-minute drive from the popular Red Sea resort of Eliat, the Red Canyon feels like 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 routes, 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.

Admire the beauty of Timna Park

Parched and photogenic, rugged Timna Park is an essential stop-off point in the impressive Negev Desert. It’s not just good looks either, the attraction also lies in the rich regional history. Here you’ll find the first copper mine in the world 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.

Hear the tale of David and Goliath in the Valley of Elah

The site of the 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 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.

Explore religion on Mount Zion

Outside the old walls of Jerusalem, Mount Zion is a holy site for Jewish, Christian and Muslim worshippers. It is also a great place to learn more about the history of Israel. 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 late in the afternoon, when some of the surrounding structures turn golden in the honeyed light. Pack your camera.

Stroll along the ancient port in 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, and considered as one of the top Israel attractions. 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.

Discover the religious significance of 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 see 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.

Go wild with watersports on the 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’s miracles occurred here, including his walk on the water. Today, visitors to the Sea of Galilee can immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the beautiful environs, have fun building rafts, or enjoy motorboat trips, water-skiing, banana-boat rides and kayaking.

Take a spring stroll through the 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.

Embark on a free tour of Haifa

After Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, Haifa is the third-largest city in Israel, with a kaleidoscope of neighbourhoods and blend of cultures that makes it a lively place for visitors. There’s a vibrant port and lively beach, which attracts surfers and offers water sports and tuition. If you want to be at one with nature, pay a visit to the most celebrated attraction in Haifa, the Bahai Gardens, on the flanks of Mount Carmel. Join a free daily tour at noon and admire the fountains, terraces and manicured flowerbeds of this precious place for followers of the Bahai faith, and learn more about the Israel culture history.

Join a celebration in 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 the entertainment centre of Israel, 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.

Uncover the ancient world in Jerusalem

Home to important spiritual sites for three major religions – Islam, Christianity and Judaism – Jerusalem is one of the holiest cities in the world, and you can now explore it with local expert guides on Culture Trip’s specially curated small-group Israel trip . 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 the religious history of Jerusalem 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.

Take a hot-air ballon tour of the 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.

Slather on mud in 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.

Go diving in 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).

Ellie Hurley contributed additional reporting to this article.

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33 Best Things To Do In Israel in 2024

No need to tell you where to find the Western Wall in Jerusalem and the beaches in Tel Aviv, but there are so many more cool things to do in Israel that not everyone has heard of yet. What about amazing national parks, zip lining, mountain tops with amazing views, spectacular roman amphitheaters, scuba diving, or even skiing. In this most complete Israel travel guide with all the best places to visit and the best things to do when visiting Israel.

Israel is a popular tourist destination thanks to its diverse landscape which varies from the coast, valley, mountain, desert, and everything in between. Each one of these diverse landscapes holds some of the most beautifully unique and well-preserved Israel tourist attractions. Tourists from different parts of the world travel to Israel in large numbers. In this list you will all the amazing things to do in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, Eilat, in North Israel and some really cool unique things to do in Israel.

In 2017 I visited Israel for the first time and I returned in 2019, 2021 and recently in March 2023 was my last trip to Israel. Of all those experiences I wrote a big article with all my Israel travel tips: Everything You Need To Know When Visiting Israel in 2023 .

Make sure you stay connected on your trip to Israel. Prepaid sim cards and e-sim cards with data for Israel are pretty cheap. See here where to buy a sim card at Tel Aviv Airport Ben Gurion  or check out my complete guide for  buying a sim card for israel in 2023 .

My recommendations for the ultimate things to do in Israel are:

• Hot Air Balloon Ride in the Negev Desert
• ATV Riding in Maktesh Ramon
• Boat trip on the Dead Sea
• Visit Gaza Border
• Masada National Park
• Food Tour in Tel Aviv/Jerusalem
• Visit Nazareth

1. Masada National Park

Masada is a Hebrew name meaning fortress. This rugged natural fortress is a symbol of bravery and self-sacrifice representing the exile of the Jews from the Holy Land. The fortress which was built as a palace complex constituting the most complete Roman-style works survives till today inside the Masada National Park.

The Masada National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds a special place in the heart of Israelites; it holds outstanding universal value as well. The park is strategically positioned overlooking the great natural beauty of the Dead Sea. The Masada site was declared a National Park in 1966 and is now under the management of the Israel Nature and Parks Authority in association with the Israel Antiquities Authority.

Visiting Masada Mountain is one of the top things to do in Israel especially for sunrise. An hour before sunrise the park opens and there are several trails that lead to the top. Find out everything you need to know about visiting Masada Israel in one of my latests Israel travel blogs.

2. Tel Aviv food tours

If you travel to Israel you will quickly find out about the delicious Israeli cuisine. Therefore a food tour in Tel Aviv is a must do when visiting Israel. For more about food tours in Tel Aviv (and also Jerusalem) have a look at my article about the best Tel Aviv food tours .

3. Ein Gedi

Ein Gedi is the largest oasis in Israel and is found in the Judean Desert not far away from the Dead Sea within the Dead Sea Valley. The name Ein Gedi is generally used to refer to Kibbutz Ein Gedi and the nearby nature reserve.

The Ein Gedi National Park has a 10-hectare botanic garden that is home to about 900 plant species. Inside the park, there are two rivers which flow throughout the year and two springs. Some of the names given to the landscape within the park are derived from the Biblical stories of king David.

Between November and April visiting Ein Gedi is one of the best things to do in Israel. Otherwise, it’ll be too cold in winter or too hot in summer. There are trails that tourists can follow past the waterfalls, springs, caves, and canyons and you will also see some kind of deer.

A visit to Ein Gedi is mostly combined with tours to the Masada Mountain and the Dead Sea. Here is an example of such an Israel tour.

4. Betzavta

What to do in Israel when you have seen all the touristy stuff, partied hard in Tel Aviv, done with all the fun things to do in Israel but still have a spare night? Betzavta is a new concept that brings locals and travelers together as you will get invited to a local home for a traditional Israeli dinner. More authentic than this it doesn’t get. Betzavta sets you up with a family around your location.

In my case a family cooked for all my friends. When I walked into the family's house I could not believe my eyes, this was like a 5* hotel buffet. We introduced ourselves briefly, before the dad opened the buffet with a short prayer and the feast started. The food was delicious, the conversations super interesting and best of all it was a lot of fun!

If you are looking for unique things to do in Israel this is definitely one of them as this is not something you will find in any Israel travel guide!

5. Sleep in a Bedouin Camp

Would you associate traveling to Israel with staying in a Bedouin Camp in the desert? It is a Middle East thing to do, so yes this is also one of the things to do in Israel. Meet a Bedouin family, drink tea and listen to their stories. Ask them all you ever wanted to know about life in the desert, as these people were the ancestors of the modern digital nomads. The Negev Desert is a popular Israel tourist attraction, but it's a playground for the Bedouins.

Is this unique activity in Israel something for you then I can recommend to check out the Kfarhanokdim website . They are located in the Negev Desert and their camp looks awesome.

6. Hot air balloon ride in the Negev Desert

When you think about fun things to do in Israel a hot air balloon ride does not pop up in your mind straight away, but damn this was the best start of my morning in a long time. It was kept a secret and only the night before it was announced: Guys tomorrow morning we have to get up and leave the Bedouin Camp at 3.00am! ‘No, you are kidding right?’ Nope but we are going to watch sunrise from out of a hot air balloon! :)

We were in the middle of the Negev Desert and we needed a jacket to keep us warm in the early morning, but you could feel the excitement among everyone as we were about to experience one of the most unique things to do in Israel. Up in the air we watched the sunrise in the distance and enjoyed the amazing views over the vast Negev Desert. If you are looking for romantic things to do in Israel then surprise your lover with a balloon ride and a breakfast for two on a unique location afterwards.

7. Experience the Gay parade in Tel Aviv

Ok I admit you will most probably find this in your guidebook as almost 30% of the people in Tel Aviv is gay and this yearly returning festival is the second biggest gay parade in the world. But did you know that even if you are straight this is one of the most fun things to do in Israel. With 200.000 happy people in the streets of Tel Aviv expressing their happiness there is no escaping, you will have to party along! I went out around midday and partied until sunset on the beach. Yes obviously there were ‘too many’ gay people, so this is the reaction of a straight guy finally seeing a girl!

But as you can see I had a blast!

8. Boat tour on the Dead Sea

This is definitely not an off the beaten path Israel destination, this is one of their most popular tourist spots so why did I add this to my list of unique things to do in Israel you must be thinking. Well let me tell you that there are only two boats on the Dead Sea and one boat that takes tourists out. This boat tour is by far the best way to see the coastline of the Dead Sea. This unique place on earth should be one of the reasons to visit Israel . Click on the link for a list of my 24 reasons to travel to Israel.

9. Buggy riding and zip lining in Makhtesh Ramon

Stop here if you are looking for fun things to do in Israel! This was one of my favorite activities I did on my first trip to Israel. Makhtesh Ramon looks like a massive crater hit by an unimaginable huge meteorite, but that is a myth. It has something to do with tectonic plates and stuff, but I will save you the details. Admiring the views over Makhtesh Ramon from the 'crater' rim is already one of the top things to do in Israel, but making your way down to the bottom and exploring the area in a buggy or ATV or Tomcat or whatever it is called is super fun.

Damn these things are powerful but this is exactly what you need in a rough landscape like this. Fasten your seat belts for one of the most adventurous things to do in Israel...

 Zip lining can also be arranged. In case you are in for a different adventure then may be you want to try to hiking through Maktesh Ramon .

10. Israel National Trail (INT)

For the extreme adventurers traveling to Israel there is the amazing 1000 kilometer long Israel National Trail. It goes across the entire country from north to south in a zigzag manner; starting at Tel Dan and ending at the Red sea. The trail goes over some of the most beautiful and history-packed scenery that Israel has to offer. Definitely one of the unique things to do in Israel.

The best time to hike this crazy path is either between February and April or between October and November. The trail gives both local and international tourists the chance to experience superb desert scenery in a relatively easy accessible way. The Israel National Trail is well marked which makes it very easy to follow without necessarily needing a map. But hey walking a 1,000 kilometer (621 miles) across the country is not really an Israel travel tip, just for those out there looking for crazy things to do in Israel. :)

11. Midburn Festival

If you ask me about one of my best experiences on my first trip to Israel I would say: the Midburn Festival! It is the second biggest Burning Man festival in the world and apart from dancing until sunrise, this festival is a fabulous experience for those who are looking for unique things to do in Israel. Welcome to CrazyLand, a temporary city in the middle of nowhere somewhere in the Negev Desert in South Israel that arises out of nothing and one week later will be gone leaving no trace or whatsoever.

Read my full experience in  The 10 Principles Of Burning Man As A Virgin  including all the photos. Something you have to see! If this fits into you agenda then you just found yourself one of the top things to do in Israel! Check here the Midburn Israel website . The Festival is being held in again in October 2023 but the dates are not yet confirmed.

12. Israel nightlife | Local markets become party places

Main cities all over the world have their local markets where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, antiques, and Artisan stores. Visiting markets like Mahane Yehuda Jerusalem or the Flea Market in Tel-Aviv will give you a colorful, tasteful and cultural experience by itself. But, for me, what makes this experience a unique thing to do in Israel is to go to those markets at night! Around sunset, they change their face, suddenly they become a nightlife center. In my blog with Israel tips I already told you the Israeli nightlife is booming and this is another example! Find restaurants, bars, great music, and local beautiful people. What a fun and unique atmosphere. Romantic Tel Aviv travel tip: if you are around the Flea Market with your other half, finish your evening with walking around Jaffa port, it's super romantic and quiet thing to do in Te Aviv.

13. Israel Museum Jerusalem

This museum is not only the largest cultural institution in Israel but is also one of the world’s top encyclopaedic museums and one of the best things to do in Jerusalem. It is located atop a hill in the Givat Ram neighborhood. Jerusalem was founded in 1965 and over the period the Israel Museum has been able to collect up to 500,000 items which are representative of the Holy Land. The holdings range from art to the most precious objects from biblical times.

The museum covers about 50,000 square meters and with about 800,00 tourists every year it is one of the top Israel tourist attractions. Some of the most valuable items on display here include the necklaces worn by Jewish brides in Yemen, a nail to attest the practice of crucifixion during the time of Jesus, and a mosaic Islamic prayer niche from 17th century Persia. Visiting the Israel Museum was one of the most valuable Israel travel tips I got from a local.

14. Yad Vashem - Holocaust Memorial Center

Yad Vashem is the official Holocaust memorial center dedicated to preserving the memories of all the victims who died. The monument honors the six million Jews who fought their Nazi oppressors as well as the Gentiles who helped the needy Jews.

The memorial site dedicated to the Holocaust and genocide was built in 1953. It’s also referred to as the Mount of Remembrance. There are museums here that cater to the public alongside a library, an educational center, a publishing house, and a research institute. Yad Vashem attracts about one million tourists making it the second-most-visited Israel tourist attraction.

Yad Vashem is one of the best things to do in Jerusalem as it is located just a stone throw away from the city.

15. Stalactite Cave Nature Reserve

A stalactite is a formation that is mostly seen hanging from the ceiling of caves and hot springs. It’s usually made up of lava, sand, mud, or minerals. The Stalactite Cave Nature Reserve has two other names; it’s also known as Soreq Cave or the Avshalom Cave Nature Reserve. This amazingly spectacular cave is the largest and most beautiful stalactite-stalagmite cave in the country and unmistakably one of the coolest things to do in Israel. The gem that’s hidden deep within the earth is found inside a reserve which comprises of an extensive natural woodland area.

The cave is 91m long, 80m wide, and 15m high – it’ll take you about half an hour to cover the round route inside. However, a tour of the entire reserve should take you about 2 hours. Even though the cave isn’t all that big, it is densely packed with different types of stalactites. Some of the names given to the stalactite and stalagmite shapes include “elephant ears”, “macaroni field”, “Romeo and Juliet”, and “sculptures garden”.

Visiting the Stalactite Cave Nature Reserve is regarded one of the best things to do in Jerusalem as it is only a 40 minute drive away from the city.

16. Bethlehem

Needless to say that Bethlehem also deserves a place in this ultimate Israel travel guide as it is one of the best things to do in Jerusalem. Just a stone throw away from the city this town is home to the Church of the Nativity, one of the oldest churches in the world. The town attracts multitudes of pilgrims from different parts of the world who come to see the Biblical birthplace of Jesus.

Bethlehem is also believed to be the birthplace of King David and the traditional site of Rachel’s Tomb.

There is also so much to see and do in Bethlehem even for the non-religious. The streets are almost always congested and busting with activity. There are numerous tourist attractions around the city such as the Israeli Separation Wall which divides Bethlehem and Jerusalem. The wall has been turned into a vast canvas with street art.

Bethlehem to me was of the most interesting things to do in Israel. Simply a place that couldn’t stop amaze me in many ways.

17. Mount Zion

Mount Zion is another of those amazing things to do in Jerusalem, located just outside the walls of the Old City. Although this name is specifically used to refer to the actual hill, it is also used to generally refer to the entire land of Israel.

On your tour of the mountain, you’ll see some very snap-happy pilgrims trying hard to capture moments and at the same time keep up with their guides. Some of the most prominent sites on Mount Zion are King David’s Tomb, the Chamber of the Holocaust, the Room of the Last supper, and the precursor of Yad Vashem.

For Pelgrimage there is an endless list of things to do in Israel, but even when you are not religious Mount Zion and the rest of Jerusalem is worth visiting.

18. Beit Guvrin Maresha National Park

The 1,250 acre Beit Guvrin Maresha National Park has many archeological sites that visitors can explore. These sites date back to some 2000 years back. The ruins of Maresha can be found within the park. The city of Maresha where the National Park can be found was a city in ancient Judah.

Both Beit Guvrin and Maresha were excavated in 1992 and 1989 respectively by an Israeli archeologist. Some of the artifacts found at the ruins include a Jewish cemetery, burial caves, a Byzantine church, a Roman-Byzantine 3,500-capacity amphitheater, mosaics, and public bathhouses.

Beit Guvrin Maresha National Park is also called the land of a thousand caves and can be found about 1 hour Southwest from Jerusalem. When you are an adventure traveler then this is one of the must see places in Israel.

No need to tell you that the amazing beaches in Tel aviv are on of the best places to visit in Israel as well as the Tel Aviv Nightlife. But there is more around the city and these are my recommendations for things to do in Tel Aviv.

19. Jaffa Flea Market

Jaffa is one of the world’s ancient ports from which the modern-day Tel Aviv grew. The port itself is already a top thing to do in Tel Aviv but the Jaffa Flea Market which is also known as Shuk Hapishpishim in Hebrew is a top Israel tourist attraction in Israel. Vendors in this market sell everything from handmade jewelry, old second-hand jeans, traditional Arabic pottery, Indian mildewed clothes, Persian tiles and Judaica. 

Stopping by this flea market that’s been operational for over a century is an incredible cultural experience. The market is a great place to find unique items at affordable prices. It’s open from Sunday through Friday and when visiting Tel Aviv this is a must.

20. Caesarea National Park

Caesarea is a small wealthy town on Israel’s Mediterranean coast about 50 km to the north of Tel Aviv. This archeological treasure also has some of the most beautiful beaches in Israel. The Caesarea National Park comprises a giant city and port. The city was created 2000 years ago by Herod in honor of Augustus Caesar. The ancient city was, in the 12th century, recreated as a massive Crusader fortress whose tower still stands tall.

There is a huge amphitheater right on the ocean that is often overlooked by tourists visiting Israel. In my opinion this place was one of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Israel.

21. Sea Of Galilee

If you travel to Israel and are looking for stunning scenery, you need to visit the Sea of Galilee, one the must see places in Israel. It actually isn’t really a sea but a damn large freshwater lake. The Sea of Galilee was known as Sea of Gennesaret; it is also referred to as Lake Galilee as well as Lake Tiberias. The Sea of Galilee is approximately 13 miles long and 8 miles wide covering an area of 64 square miles.

The Jordan River is the main source of water for the Sea of Galilee although it’s still partly fed by underground springs. The Sea of Galilee is one of the best things to do in North Israel. This lake is Israel’s most important source of drinking water, but it also has a huge religious significance, and has beautiful surroundings comprising of beaches and mountains.

22. Mount Arbel National Park

Mount Arbel is a stunning and majestic mountain situated in the Lower Galilee prominently facing the Sea of Galilee. Located next to the Sea of Galilee makes Mount Arbel another amazing thing to do in North Israel. The mountain is inside the Mount Arbel National Park and Nature Reserve which is also home to an amazing cave fortress as well as ancient ruins of a synagogue.

Hiking up the Mount Arbel is another adventurous thing to do in Israel and it gives you amazing views of the surrounding areas. While at the top of the mountain, you can catch a glimpse of Mount Hermon, the Golan Heights, as well as other famous landmarks such as Safed and the Horns of Hattin.

23. Visit Nazareth

Of course the world famous town of Nazareth can’t be missed in this list of the best things to do in Israel. Nazareth is a city situated in the north of Israel and is also referred to as “the Arab capital of Israel”. Although a large part of the population comprises of Arabs, the city has several holy places and shrines which commemorate biblical events. For this reason, Nazareth is a major center of Christian Pilgrimage and has attracted hundreds of millions of pilgrims from across the globe and therefore one of the top places to visit in Israel.

In addition to being a religious center, the city also serves as a major cultural center. Over the years, the historic Old City has been renovated to restore and preserve its architectural beauty.

There are so many places here that are associated with the Annunciation, childhood, and the early ministry of Jesus Christ. These include the Basilica of the Annunciation, the Greek Orthodox Church of the Archangel Gabriel, the Greek Catholic Synagogue Church, and the Franciscan Church of St. Joseph.

When visiting Israel Nazareth is one of the must see places in Israel!

24. Basilica Of The Annunciation

The Basilica of Annunciation is also commonly referred to as the Church of the Annunciation. This Latin Catholic Church was built over the area where the Catholic tradition believes that angel Gabriel appeared to Virgin Mary and announced that she would conceive and give birth to Jesus. This place is among the most sacred places for Christians and one of the must see places in Israel.

The huge 2-story basilica was completed in 1969 and is constructed using modern architecture. The structure which was designed by Giovanni Muzio, an Italian architect, is colorfully decorated. It has two interconnected churches: one on top of the other. The main entrance of the upper church is on the northern side. Over the door on the southern side, stands a statue of 14-year-old Virgin Mary welcoming all who come visiting.

25. Haifa Gardens

Haifa is the 3rd largest city in Israel after Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Today it is home to a mixed population comprising of Jews, Muslims, and Christian Arabs who co-exist peacefully. The best thing to do in Haifa is to visit the Haifa Garden, also referred to as the Bahai Garden. The Haifa Garden which is big and beautifully bestows a magnificent radiance in the city. The Haifa Gardens are inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors are not allowed to pick flowers at the Haifa Garden, so you know!

26. Tel Dan Nature Reserve

In Hebrew, the word Tel means hill or mound. The Tel Dan was officially declared a Nature Reserve in 1974. Inside the nature reserve, there is a river called the Dan River which is the largest of the three rivers that flow deliciously into the Jordan River. The word Jordan actually means “came out of the Dan.”

The Tel Dan Nature reserve is no doubt a little piece of heaven on earth. Although it is a pretty small Israel tourist attraction and off the beaten track it still is a great place to visit. Not far from the Lebanon and Syria border the Tel Dan Nature Reserve is one of the best things to do in North Israel.

It has very impressive archeological digs. Parts of the 5000-year-old ancient city of Tel Dan have been reconstructed following years of excavation.

27. Mount Tabor And Church Of Transfiguration

The current day Church of the Transfiguration, built in 1924, is part of the Franciscan Church and is located at the top of Mount Tabor in Galilee. The mountain is 575 meters high. It is believed that this is where the Transfiguration of Jesus happened. The church has three chapels and one small alter; the alters are also referred to as tabernacles and represent the three tents which Peter wanted to build for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah.

The Transfiguration refers to the occurrence in the Bible when Jesus appears as a radiant Being to speak to Moses and Elijah. It’s during this time that Jesus is referred to as the son of God. 

Representing the same purpose is a Greek Orthodox church that is also located on Mount Tabor. Needless to say that this one of the amazing places to visit in Israel when you are a history lover.

Mount Tabor And Church Of Transfiguration is located 30 minutes East from Nazareth and therefore regarded as one of the best things to do in North Israel.

28. Skiing in Israel on Mount Hermon

Believe it or not but you can also go skiing in Israel. Don’t expect the best snow conditions, but you can be really lucky. In 2019 they saw 3 times as much snowfall than average! There are 8 lifts and the total length of pistes is 45 kilometers. I’m not saying skiing is among the best things to do in Israel, but it is a cool day activity. Within three hours you can be from the middle of the desert or the beach on top of Mount Hermon on your skis. The ski areas are located in North Israel.

29. Visit the Gaza Border

All the way in the South of Israel you can find the Gaza Strip and I bet you have heard of it. It is definitely one of the most unique places to visit in the world, which is seemingly impossible. Of course since the conflict in lately escalated again it is not recommend to visit the Gaza border at the moment. It is best to go to this unique place on a tour from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv with a reputable company. Check out my  blog post about my experiences visiting the Gaza Border  for more info.

30. Timna Park

Timna Park is found in the heart of Timna Valley which is located in the Southern part of Israel in the Negev Desert. Besides offering a historical and geological experience, Timna Park has a picturesque landscape which is great for activities like camping, hiking, walking, and biking for all ages. The park covers about 15,000 acres in a beautifully majestic desert setting.

A big part of the valley has ancient remnants of copper mining and traces of ancient worship. The copper mine was the first of it’s kind in the world with smelting furnaces dating back to ancient imperial Egypt. The copper was used to make items such as household tools, weapons, and ornaments.

Timna Park is only about 30 kilometers North of Eilat and therefor one of the best things to do in Eilat or when visiting South Israel.

The southern part of Israel is mostly covered by the Negev desert, which makes this part of the country great for the adventure traveler.

31. Red Canyon

Not far away from Timna Park another amazing thing to do in Eilat can be found: Red Canyon. Hiking through the narrow canyons and unique rock formations is a fairly new and not so touristy Israel tourist attraction close to the Egypt border. The first thing that came up in my miny when visiting the Red Canyon was that is reminded me a lot about Antelope Canyon in Arizona, USA.

When on an Israel road trip drive down Highway 12 towards Eilat along the Egypt border and it will be on your right hand side. You can also take a bus here from either Be’er Sheva or Eilat.

32. Ein Avdat National Park

Ein Avdat is a spring and nature reserve that is found in a canyon in the Negev Desert. The spring water comes from the rock layers on which salt-tolerant plants grow. The lush vegetation attracts different animal species such as insects, birds, and frogs.

The Ein Avdat, being a water source in the middle of the desert, attracts both people and animals in pursuit of drinking water. Thanks to its beauty, the place has become a popular tourist attraction in Israel and a favorite hiking spot amongst people who enjoy the views created by the dramatically steep canyon. Birds such as eagles use the cliffs as nesting spots.

The Ein Avdat National Park is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to the presence of a Byzantine Church which dates back to the 3rd century. Ein Avdat is among the best places to visit in Israel and the country’s most striking National Park according to many locals.

Ein Avdat is located about 1 hour south of Be’er Sheva in the South of Israel and therefore best to be visit on either a tour or when you are sightseeing Israel by car.

33. Scuba Dive In Eilat

Eilat is the southernmost and the only city in Israel that’s on the Red Sea and is a popular destination for a sunshine holiday. Visiting the beaches of the Red Sea is probably one of the best things to do in Eilat. Sprawled along a 7-kilometer coastline, Eilat has plenty of shops and resorts but scuba diving in Israel is worth giving it a try.

Eilat is filled with fun, sun, diving, kayaking, partying, dining, and desert-based activities. The main reason why this city is a favorite all-year-round escape for tourists is probably due to its climate-induced relaxed climate. But the Red Sea provide excellent scuba diving with relatively pristine coral reefs. Scuba diving equipment is available for hire on all the major beaches. About 250,000 dives happen here every year.

Israel travel blogs

In 2017 I traveled around Israel for 2 weeks, partied in Tel Aviv, went to Midburn festival , visited Jerusalem, swam in the Dead Sea, went off the beaten path in North Israel, explored the Negev Desert, crossed off some of the best things to do in Israel and partied again in Tel Aviv. Israel has always been a really surprising destination in many ways.

The country isn’t that big so moving around is quite easy; the roads are in excellent condition so you can move around safely and quickly. These last Israel travel tips will make your trip even better:

• avoid making any plans on the Sabbath as public transport services are not available then.
• make an effort to learn some Hebrew which is the official language here. Other commonly spoken languages here are Arabic and English.
• Change your money into the Israeli currency which is the Shekel. However, US dollars are accepted in some places.
• Try Israeli wine, it is not bad at all. 

All in all I wrote more than 10 Israel travel blogs . If you decide to travel to Israel then check out my complete list of Israel travel tips  in this link.

I have traveled thoroughly in the Middle East, see my  trip to Syria , my trip to Kurdistan, Iraq  or my trip to Iran . One by one I enjoyed them. The Middle East cuisine is delicious and I got to taste some of it through some of the best Tel Aviv food tours .

Israel is not a budget destination, but you can travel around without breaking the bank. If you still need some convincing I summed up 24 reasons to travel to Israel .

Got fueled by wanderlust by this article? Go check out my Instagram profile @traveltomtom where you will find my road to visit every country in the world . As of June 2023 I have been to more than 155 countries.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Adventure Traveler & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

I hope all the above tips for visiting Israel were helpful. May you have any recommendations then please leave me a comment below or reach out to me.

Enjoy your trip to Israel!

• hot air balloon

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Few places on earth stir up passion the way that Israel does: the breathtaking beauty of its hills and valleys, the eerie stillness of the Dead Sea, the multi-colored canyon of Makhtesh Ramon, and the ancient walls and pathways of Nazareth and Jerusalem. The call of the muezzin and the quiet prayers of Orthodox Jews at the Western Wall reflect how the religious devotion of the Muslims, Christians and Jews who live here runs through every facet of life.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Baha’i Gardens

These formal gardens flowing down 19 steep terraces to a resplendent domed shrine – the final resting place of the prophet-herald of the Baha’i faith –…

Masada National Park

The plateau atop Masada, which measures about 550m by 270m, is some 60m above sea level – that is, about 490m above the surface of the Dead Sea. The…

Basilica of the Annunciation

Dominating the Old City’s skyline is the lantern-topped cupola of this Franciscan-run Roman Catholic basilica, an audacious modernist structure that’s…

Beit She’an National Park

Lower Galilee

Beit She’an’s extraordinary Roman ruins are the best place in Israel to get a sense of what it was like to live, work and shop in the Roman Empire…

Mount of the Beatitudes

Sea of Galilee

Since at least the 4th century, this landscaped hillside is believed to be where Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7), whose opening…

Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

This reserve consists of two roughly parallel canyons, Wadi David and Wadi Arugot, each of which has its own entrance complex and ticket office. It is…

Masada Museum

An outstanding and remarkably vivid introduction to Masada’s archaeology and history, this museum combines 500 evocative artefacts unearthed by…

Hai-Bar Yotvata Nature Reserve

Established in 1968 to reintroduce animals that had died out in Israel, this 32-sq-km reserve on the Yotvata salt flats is home to a wide variety of…

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• Itineraries & Travel

Updated Aug 19 2023 08:09PM EDT

75 best things to do in Israel: The ultimate travel guide

• By Jazzie Morgan

In honor of Israel’s 75th birthday, here are 75 MUST-DOs in Israel, from north to south. This is your complete travel guide or bucket list of things to do in Israel.

Jump to: The North | The Center and Jerusalem | The South

1. Go skiing on Mount Hermon.

It may surprise you to know that Israel’s Mount Hermon has over 28 miles (45 kilometers) of ski trails! While there is lots to do on top of the Hermon any time of year, skiing is definitely a special experience. Make sure to check they are open before making the trip up to the mountain.

2. Visit Ghajar, a town on the Lebanese border for a one-of-a-kind experience. 

This Alawite-Arab village , now open after being closed to tourists for years, is well-known for its authentic Syrian and Lebanese food. There are many food trucks in the village, a beautiful park filled with flowers and an award-winning pastry shop.

3. Take the longest cable car in Israel up the Manara Cliff. 

When most people think of cable cars and Israel, they think of Haifa or Masada, but the longest cable car in Israel is actually in Northern Israel up the Manara Cliff. In addition to the cable car, there is a climbing wall, a zip line and mountain sliding.

4. Have a delicious goat cheese lunch at Goats with the Wind. 

Take a step back into biblical times with an incredible goat cheese lunch in Yodfat at Goats with the Wind , a family-run cheese farm. Their set tasting menu includes tons of seasonal fresh salads, homemade cheeses and roasted vegetables.

5. Drink wine at Tel Shifon winery, located in the northernmost part of Israel.

Tel Shifon Winery is a beautiful kibbutz winery offering attractions from wine tastings to onsite villas and ATV tours. If you can make it for one of their nighttime chef pop-up meals under the stars, it is a truly special experience.

6. Take a geopolitical tour of the Lebanon Border.

Seeing the border firsthand and hearing stories from locals will help you understand the complex geopolitical situation between Israel and Lebanon. There are many different companies offering these tours and they can often be tailored to your specific interests.

7. Visit a Druze family for a home hospitality cooking workshop with Galileat.

Galileat offers authentic culinary excursions like workshops, home hospitality and more in the Galil. Their hosts go above and beyond to give you a glimpse into the Druze religion and community. They have hosts that are Christian, Druze, and Muslim. I recommend asking for Snir and Miaad!

8. Bird-watch in the Hula Valley. 

At the Hula Valley nature preserve, the lakes are stocked with fish to encourage migration, making it the ultimate bird-watching destination. Over 500 million birds (no less than 390 species) pass through the Hula Valley yearly on their way south.

9. Enjoy the view and pastries at Avtalion Coffee in Misgav.

This kosher culinary experience in the Galilee is one of the most talked-about bakeries in the north of Israel. While Avtalion Coffee is best known for their handmade pastries, they also have an impressive menu of decadent options like croissant sandwiches, blintzes, and shakshuka. The cafe has a stunning view of the region and is a must-visit if you’re in the area.

10. Visit the hot springs at Hamat Gader. 

The Spa Village at Hamat Gader is a little oasis that is great for a few hours of relaxation or a full-weekend stay. The water in the springs is around 107 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius) year-round and they offer a range of accommodations from romantic suites to tents.

11. Stop for hummus in a gas station at Hummus Eliyahu, Yokneam. 

The original location of the famous Hummus Eliyahu hummus chain is located behind a gas station and you would probably never notice it if you didn’t know it was there. It is definitely some of the best hummus in Israel. Go early because they will sell out!

12. Spend time on Achziv and visit the micronation Akhzivland.

Achzivland is a micronation between Nahariya and the Lebanese border, near the ancient port city of Achziv. It is now a national park where you can camp at their beautiful waterfront campground, rent a beach bungalow, swim amongst the ruins of the ancient city and visit the museum.

13. Visit Merkaza, one of the largest grocery stores in the Middle East. 

More than just a supermarket, the two-story Merkaza in Nof HaGalil includes a gourmet food court and a home goods store. The store has seemingly endless aisles and is a great place to stop on a road trip up north to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat and buy local snacks/spices. It is especially cool to visit during Christmas time when it is covered in decorations.

14. Enjoy a cup of coffee at Arthur Cafe with a view of the Kinneret.

This coffee cart is the perfect place to sit and enjoy a coffee, pastries or even fresh-made pizza in the afternoons, while enjoying a stunning view of the Sea of Galilee. They offer a really wonderful relaxing atmosphere to take a break after a fun day in the water or after a long drive.

15. Stay in a tzimer (log cabin) in Mattat. 

Although there are dozens of log cabins for rent in the area, my personal favorite is Maayan Bereshit. We go at least once a year and it is the most relaxing weekend you can imagine. Located in Mattat is a winery run on the honor system — you can go 24/7, take wine and leave money for what you take. There is also a great second-hand shop open each Friday.

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16. Visit the Bahai Gardens.

There are two locations of Bahai Gardens in Israel, in Haifa and Akko. These gardens are holy sites for those who follow the Bahai faith, as well as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Touring the Bahai Garden is a must-do not only for the spectacular views but also to learn more about the Bahai religion.

17. Pick your own cherries at the Horse and Cherry Farm on Moshav Odem. 

Hidden on Moshav Odem is a cute farm called the Horse and Cherry Farm that offers cherry-picking during cherry season (May and June)! Plus, it’s located next to Odem Mountain Winery so you can cool off with a glass of chilled white wine afterward.

18. Hike from the Mediterranean Sea to the Kinneret. 

If you enjoy hiking and have 3-4 days to spare, you will definitely want to take the Yam l’Yam (Sea to Sea) hike. This classic hike is not only a favorite childhood experience for many Israelis — it is also a great way to connect to the land and experience Israel’s beautiful terrain firsthand.

19. Complete part or all of Shvil HaGolan, a hiking trail across the Golan. 

The Golan Trail stretches from Mount Hermon in the north to the Sea of Galilee at its south. It’s a hiking trail, but the majority of it is also accessible by bike or horse. In its entirety, the trail is 75 miles (120 km) and is divided into 15 segments.

20. Spend time swimming in the beautiful natural pools of Gan Hashlosha.

Gan Hashlosha is a national park in Israel with three stunning natural pools of water, making it the perfect place to picnic or camp out. Watch out for the fish that nibble on the bottom of your feet — they tickle. Note that the entrance fee is 33 NIS per adult and 24 NIS per child.

21. Visit the Kangaroo Park.

Located just outside Gan Hashlosha, Gan Garoo is home to dozens of kangaroos. The kangaroos are free-roaming and you can feed them during your visit. In the park, you will also see cassowaries, emus, flying foxes, parrots and some rare reptiles.

22. Go rafting or kayaking in the Jordan River. 

Jordan River Rafting offers tons of excursions in the Upper Galilee, but one that you cannot miss is rafting down the river itself. Trips range from 2-6 hours and there are different levels of difficulty. They also offer kayaking, jeep trips and guided hikes.

23. Visit the Pereh Mountain Hotel

Pereh Hotel blends luxury with history. Located in an old customs house that has been renovated to offer all the best amenities you would expect at a 5-star hotel, Pereh is truly a unique place. In addition to a stunning gym, pool and spa, they also have an on-site chef’s restaurant and a wine cellar. Spending a night at Pereh is like stepping into another time and place.

24. Tour the UNESCO world heritage sites in Akko. 

The walled port city of Akko is a special place filled with history and a must-see for those traveling in Israel. Make sure you climb the walls to see the port from above, visit the market and take time to explore the Crusader City .

25. Hike Mount Arbel at sunrise. 

From its beautiful observation points to biblical history, Mount Arbel is simply majestic. Carved into the mountain you will find caves where Jews hid during the Greek and Roman periods. You can also visit an ancient synagogue, which is a part of the Israel National Trail. There are a few hiking trails in the area, running from 30 minutes to three hours.

The Center and Jerusalem:

26. visit a coffee cart. i recommend blooms, mama coffee, or arthura .

There are well over 80 coffee carts across Israel! At the start of the pandemic, they began popping up in small communities across the country. Many of them are located in parks or near historic sites. They are a fun way to visit off-the-beaten-path places in Israel. Here is a map to find one near you!

27. Spend an afternoon in a natural spring like Ein Aviel.

Located in the Binyamina area, this natural spring is free, easy to get to and has water year-round! Enjoy a short stroll, spend time swimming in the spring and don’t forget to bring food for a picnic. If you look hard enough, you may also find the hidden cave with a waterfall in it.

28. Enjoy ice cream at Buza, a special shop that is jointly owned by an Israeli and an Arab. 

Buza ice cream is well-known across Israel for its really incredible texture and flavor. “Buza” means ice cream in Arabic and they make their ice cream by hand daily from fresh local ingredients. There are multiple locations in Israel, including in Tel Aviv and Akko.

29. Take a tour of Dialogue in the Dark, the Blind Museum in Holon. 

This is a one-of-a-kind experience of being led through a dark museum by a blind guide to better embrace how it feels to be visually impaired. The museum is located in the Children’s Museum of Holon , which is an easy bus ride from Tel Aviv.

30. Shop in the Jaffa Flea Market. 

Shop for unique vintage pieces from clothing to furniture at the Jaffa Flea Market . There are also amazing spots to eat nearby including the famous Mallabi shop HaMalabiah . Be sure to check out Shifra, a cute shop with lots of local goods like cheeses, oils and dips.

31. Eat lunch at Bottarga in Shuk HaCarmel, Tel Aviv

Bottarga is a home-cooking, female-run restaurant that has delicious options for everyone from meat to vegan and gluten-free. They opened recently and have been the talk of the town ever since. Check out what chef Adeena Sussman has to say about them!

32. Spend a day at Moshav Bat Shlomo

There is so much to do in Bat Shlomo, but most people drive right by without noticing it. I recommend visiting the “Truck BaMoshava” coffee cart, the award-winning winery and the cheese farm. I highly recommend taking a beautiful bike ride in the forest behind the village as well.

33. Relax on the beach at Hof Yanai, in the Hefer Valley.

Hof Bet Yanai is my favorite beach in Israel by far. There are stunning rock formations and it is often much quieter than other beaches in the center of Israel. There are lifeguards on duty, showers, a snack hut and shaded gazebos to make beach-going even more enjoyable.

34. Visit the Anu Museum

The newly-renovated Anu Museum of the Jewish People is known as one of Israel’s most unique and captivating museums. The museum celebrates multiculturalism and Jewish diversity, with exhibits on the Jewish people across generations. It is located inside Tel Aviv University and easily accessible by train.

35. Visit Asif, the Culinary Institute of Israel.

Asif is a unique combination of a library, cafe, market, garden and museum. Enjoy a delicious brunch, take a stroll through their ever-changing exhibit on Israel’s culinary history and peruse their library of cookbooks. If you’re lucky, you can catch a tour which includes a visit to their rooftop garden.

36. Take a hummus tour in the Old City of Jerusalem.

One of my favorite experiences in the Old City of Jerusalem was taking a hummus tour of the Muslim Quarter with tour guide Mo from The Holy Tourist . Mo grew up in the Old City and knows the area like the back of his hand, including all the best hummus places.

37. Enjoy coffee and a slice of cake at the Austrian Hospice in the Old City. 

Most people who visit the Austrian Hospice see the rooftop and its stunning panoramic view of the Old City but miss the adorable cafe just downstairs. Stop in for coffee and a slice of cake and sit outside on the terrace. From there, you can see the Old City from a new perspective.

38. Experience a traditional afternoon tea at KumKum in Jerusalem.

Kumkum is a one-of-a-kind tea house in Jerusalem. Owned by Elisheva, an immigrant to Israel from England, her shop offers a super-authentic English tea experience down to the tea cups. Elisheva is a trained pastry chef and makes delicious homemade scones (there are also gluten-free scones!). There is no better way to spend a few hours in the afternoon with friends than with a tea tower at KumKum.

39. Row-boat in Ramla’s Pool of Arches. 

A remnant from the time of the Abbasid caliphate, this building has survived over 1,200 years! Today, visitors can experience the reservoir by rowboat, making it a great activity for the whole family. Keep in mind that you have to climb a short steep set of stairs to access it. 

40. Enjoy a wine tasting at Vitkin Winery. 

Vitkin Winery is one of the most underrated wineries in Israel. On the weekends they offer a special tapas menu with great vegetarian options as well as vegan and gluten-free options.

41. See a concert at Zappa in Jerusalem.

Zappa is a cool restaurant and concert hall, offering shows by a wide variety of Israeli musicians. The small venue allows for a more intimate and relaxed ambiance than most concert halls. The venue opens a couple hours before the concert for dinner and the bartenders continue to serve drinks throughout. There are many locations in Israel, but my favorite is in Jerusalem.

42. Have hummus at Hummus Gingi on Kibbutz Einat. 

One of the best and most fun places to stop for hummus in Israel is Gingi. Hummus Gingi has been a staple on Kibbutz Einat for nearly 20 years. They slow-cook the chickpeas overnight for especially creamy hummus and the spicy lemon sauce they serve alongside it takes the flavor to the next level. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jazzie | Gluten Free | עגלות קפה | ללא גלוטן | Jerusalem (@theisraelbites)

43. Grab coffee and a cheese platter from Cohen’s Deli in Jerusalem.

The perfect place for an afternoon date, Cohen’s Deli has a top-notch cheese selection, but even better is their salad that comes with it. It is addictive . It looks like a typical Israeli salad, but what sets it apart is the quality of ingredients — they use the best produce, flakey salt, raw tahini and nuts, which perfectly complement each other.

44. Enjoy the vegetarian tasting menu from Asaf Granit’s Tzemah. 

Many of the world’s top restaurants are renowned for their meat dishes, but Asaf Granit’s Tzemah is a 100% vegetarian restaurant serving up 5-star meals. They offer a tasting menu where you can try all the chefs’ picks and it is one of the best ways to celebrate special occasions from birthdays to anniversaries.

45. Enjoy a tour and tasting at Thinkers Distillery in Jerusalem.

Thinkers is a gin distillery located just a few steps away from Jerusalem’s famous Machne Yehudah Market. You can take a 45-minute tour for 95 NIS per person, which of course includes tasting the gin. They also have a longer deep-dive tour where you can sample cocktails from their mixologists.

46. Watch the sunset at the cliffs of Shefayim with a snack from Cafe v’Yam.

The cliffs located behind Hotel Shefayim are one of my favorite places in all of Israel, so much so that my fiance actually proposed to me there. They offer an absolutely breathtaking view of the sunset, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch Cafe v’Yam still open for pizza and beer.

47. Spend the day at Jerusalem’s Biblical Zoo.

Located in southern Jerusalem in a very pastoral area, the Biblical Zoo is one of Israel’s most popular places to visit. What sets the Biblical Zoo apart is that they have verses from the Torah next to the animals showing the connection between the animal and Jewish tradition.

48. Hike in the Forest of the Martyrs, which memorializes the six million killed in the Holocaust.

In this forest, which is located on the edge of the Jerusalem Forest, six million trees were planted to commemorate the memories of those who perished during the Holocaust. Yad Vashem , Israel’s Holocaust Museum, is also located nearby.

49. Walk from the Kraft Sports Center through Emek HaArazim to Ein Kerem, stopping in Motza for a bite at Alloro Cafe. 

This 6mile (10 km) hike is a beautiful way to explore the outskirts of Jerusalem. Most of the path is paved and only the end has a steep uphill incline. About one-third of the way along the route, you’ll pass through Motza where there is an incredible pastry shop that’s perfect for a pitstop.

50. Visit Hollander Distillery for a liquor tour and tasting. 

A hidden gem in the Jerusalem Hills, Hollander has a rich history that can only truly be understood through experiencing the distillery . You can sample their delicious liquors made from local fruit while enjoying the unbeatable view from their porch.

51. Eat ice cream at Yotvata. 

You’ll probably recognize the name Yotvata if you have ever had shoko b’sakit (chocolate milk in a bag). After Tnuva, Yotvata is the second-largest milk producer in Israel and their “pundak” (rest stop) makes the perfect pitstop on any drive to Eilat. Try their fresh ice cream with local dairy from the kibbutz.

52. Hike in Timna Park. 

In my opinion, Timna is the most beautiful national park in Israel and there are endless photo ops. They even have an “Instagram map” of the most photo-worthy sites in the park. You can easily spend more than a day here, so I recommend allotting a decent amount of time to your visit. You can even rent or room or bring a tent!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Timna park – Israel (@timnapark)

53. Visit the hidden lake, a gorgeous viewpoint just minutes from Eilat. 

Bring a pakal cafe (travel coffee stove) and stop for a coffee break while looking out at the gorgeous lake in the middle of the desert. This is the most beautiful spot to stop on your long drive down to Eilat.

54. Do a late-night astronomy tour in the Ramon Crater. 

With some of the clearest and darkest skies in Israel, Mitzpe Ramon or The Ramon Crater is one of the best places to go stargazing. The cost of a tour with Astronomy Israel is 175 NIS per adult and 85 NIS per child above the age of 6.

55. Stay at the luxury hotel Beresheet.

Beresheet is one of the most famous hotels in Israel and for good reason! Just be sure to lock your door at night or you may be woken up by an ibex staring you in the face. If you don’t want to shell out a few thousand shekels a night to sleep at the hotel, you can also go for breakfast!

56. Sleep in a cement pipe at Naot Farm.

You read that right — a cement pipe! Naot Farm is a family-run farm in the middle of the Negev with tiny little pipe rooms that you can rent for just over $100 a night. They also have a small natural pool, a cafe with homemade cheeses and local wine, and plenty of space to stroll and enjoy the quiet.

57. Visit the Dolphin Reef in Eilat.

Magical views, a private beach, dolphins, snorkeling, diving and a beach bar… what more could you ask for? The cost to enter Dolphin Reef is 69 NIS for adults and 48 NIS for kids under 15.

58. Spend a day on Hof Mosh.

Visiting Hof Mosh, the most famous beach in Israel, is a must-do at least once in a lifetime. The beach is well-equipped with restaurants, making it a great option if you’re looking to spend the entire day relaxing by the water.

59. Snorkel in the Red Sea. 

The Red Sea is known around the world as one of the best locations for both snorkeling and diving. Coral Reef Beach is a super popular and easily accessible spot for snorkeling, renowned for its rich corals and diverse sea life.

60. Eat ice cream at Glenderia Ice Cream Truck.

We’ve already covered coffee carts — now it’s time for an ice cream truck! Located near Sde Boker (the exact location varies but you can find it on their Facebook page), Glenderia has been serving ice cream to passersby since 2020.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by גלנדריה (@glenderia)

61. Shop at the second-hand store in Sde Boker.

Right outside of Ben-Gurion’s Hut is one of my favorite second-hand stores in Israel! It is quite small but always packed with unique finds, local art and great prices. To get to the store, follow directions to Ben-Gurion’s Hut and you won’t miss it.

62. Have a coffee with an ibex at Ben-Gurion’s Tomb overlooking Ein Avdat. 

Knaaniya Cafe is an excellent place to grab coffee, but be sure to order it to-go and take a short three-minute walk over to the edge of Ben-Gurion’s Tomb, where you can often find ibex hanging out. Sit and enjoy the stunning view of Ein Avdat while sipping your coffee.

63. Go swimming in Ein Akev. 

Located just below Midreshet Ben-Gurion, this gorgeous, hidden natural pool is one of the best places in Israel to spend an afternoon. Remember to bring snacks and a hat, as there is little shade and it gets very hot.

64. Hike to Gev Holon, Ein Gedi.

The hike to Gev Holon may be challenging, but it is more than worth it. While most people only make it to the small pools and waterfalls at the base of the mountain, this hike takes you to a lovely hidden pool with a breathtaking view of the Dead Sea down below.

@theisraelbites If you haven’t seen Gev Halon, you need to add this to your bucket list! #hike #israel #ולוג #טיול ♬ Zen Music – Meditation

65. Float in the Dead Sea. 

Of course, no trip to Israel is complete without taking a dip in the Dead Sea. But, if you’re looking for a different experience, check out the Dead Sea mushrooms, which are salt islands you can walk out onto for gorgeous photos.

66. Stop for brunch at Studio Coffee in Arad. 

Studio Coffee is American-owned and serves up amazing treats like homemade-flavored coffee syrups and keto desserts with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. Try their great breads and homemade dips.

67. Glamp at the Dead Sea. 

Glamping has all the fun of camping but with a much higher comfort level! Located right on the Dead Sea, Badolina is a great place to glamp with an onsite cafe/bar and access to a local pool. With tents that accommodate up to 8 people, it’s a great place to go with friends, and the price can’t be beat.

68. Take a tour of Neot Semadar. 

Neot Semadar is a unique kibbutz located just north of Eilat. You might recognize the arts center and famous statue in the middle of the kibbutz. On the kibbutz you can enjoy a tour of the arts center and a visit to their winery.

69. Go for a wine tasting at Carmey Avdat, with the option to book a villa and stay overnight! 

This desert winery and estate is a small family-run establishment. They say that the farm is located on the remains of a 1500-year-old agricultural settlement on the path of the ancient Spice Route.

70. Experience home hospitality for lunch with Mevashlot Yerucham and learn about the local women of the area.

The Culinary Queens of Yerucham is part of a project to promote diversity, solidarity and a more pluralistic Israel. They offer home hospitality and workshops where you can learn about and enjoy recipes that have been passed down for generations.

71. Go ice skating in the Ice Mall in Israel’s southernmost city of Eilat. 

Ice skating in Israel ? In Eilat of all places? Yes, it is real. When you’re overheated from a full day in the sun at the beach and can’t spend any more time shopping in the tax-free malls, ice skating is the perfect way to spend the evening. Be sure to check Groo (Israeli Groupon) for a deal on tickets.

72. Have delicious Indian food at Little India in Beersheva. 

Little India is one of the best Indian restaurants in Israel, and shockingly enough, it isn’t in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem — it’s in Beer Sheva! And it’s kosher. Try the paneer!

73. Take a cable car to the top of the Masada Fortress.

While some people enjoy the challenge (or torture, depending on your interpretation) of hiking the snake path up the mountain, I prefer the more relaxed experience of taking the quick cable car ride and spending more time enjoying the ruins of the fortress at the top.

74. Check out the graffiti at Gallery Minus 430 at Kalia Beach. 

Named for its elevation level, this unique art gallery in Kalia Beach features graffiti from local and international artists who joined the project to raise awareness about the many environmental issues threatening the Dead Sea.

75. Visit the Antelope Ranch in the Arava Valley. 

Africa meets Israel’s Negev Desert at this cool ranch ! Take a mini safari tour, where you will meet antelopes, elk, goats, exotic sheep and other animals, or visit the petting zoo. There are also cabins and a campground which come with access to a sulfur pool.

Originally Published Apr 24, 2023 05:25PM EDT

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Alluring and inimitable, Israel is one of those destinations that stirs up a myriad of contemplations when visiting. Located on the Mediterranean Sea and bordered by Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Egypt, this Middle Eastern country is known as the biblical Holy Land by Jews, Muslims, and Christians. For such a small country, there is much to see and do here, even if you’re more of a history buff than a religious devotee. From the incredibly diverse topography to the chronicles embedded in the streets of Jerusalem, to the modern seaside city of Tel Aviv, and to the ethereal tranquility of the Dead Sea, Israel has a way of engaging wanderers who seek depth in their travels. Keep reading to learn about the top things to experience while visiting this country.

Tel Aviv and Jaffa Port

  Ilan Shacham / Getty Images

Dining, shopping, and nightlife opportunities abound in the coastal beach city of Tel Aviv, which in many ways can feel like the American city of Miami. You’ll see vibrant graffiti art, modern architecture as well as the largest collection of Bauhaus buildings in the world, and plenty of boutiques selling everything from textiles to home goods to clothing to furniture. Walk along the beach promenade or take a tour of the area via bicycle or Segway. Be sure to visit Carmel Market to sample different types of Israeli foods and drinks, influenced by a multitude of cultures.

Explore the winding and narrow streets of Jaffa’s Old City, also known as Yafo, and its port. The contrast of the oldest port in the world, home to multiethnic communities, next to the modern city of Tel Aviv is stark. See the Jaffa Clock Tower, Saint Nicholas Monastery, the Great Mahmoudiya Mosque, the Old Jaffa Museum of Antiquities, and several gardens, squares, and courtyards.

Mount of Olives

 mbell / Getty Images

Located in east Jerusalem, near the Old City, Mount of Olives is a worthwhile place to visit to gain perspective of the land—you can see far and wide over the Kidron Valley to Jerusalem and Temple Mount when standing on this mountain. Olive groves once covered this Jewish burial ground, which has been the resting place for notable Jewish biblical figures for thousands of years. Dome of the Ascension, where Jesus is said to have made his last footprint on Earth, is located in these hills as is the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus prayed before crucifixion.  

Jerusalem’s Old City

 Wendy Altschuler 

The walled and historic Old City of Jerusalem has been at the epicenter for religious faith, sacred to millions of people for thousands of years. Tourists, entering through one of seven entrances (the New Gate, Damascus Gate, Herod’s Gate, Lions’ Gate, Dung Gate, Zion Gate, and Jaffa Gate), explore the four uneven quarters—Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Armenian—within the stone walls. Visit religious sites, look for goods throughout the many stalls in the quarters, and dine out in any of the various eateries. The top must-see sites to experience here are the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, and Temple Mount. Explore Jerusalem through one of our recommended tour companies .

The Western Wall

Also called the Wailing Wall or Kotel, Jerusalem’s Western Wall is a moving sight for people of any faith but particularly those of the Jewish religion. Millions of pilgrims make their way here each year to pray, read scripture, and write prayers and wishes on pieces of paper that then get wedged into the cracks of the limestone wall, the only remainder of the wall surrounding the Temple Mount and the site of the First and Second Temples of Jerusalem, which were destroyed first by the Babylonians and then by the Romans. The wall is divided for men and women in Prayer Plaza, and conservative dress is required to visit the free site.

Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock

roevin / Getty Images

The grounds of the Dome of the Rock and Al Aqsa Mosque—known as Al Haram Ash Sharif (The Noble Sanctuary) to Muslims and Har Ha Bayit (Temple Mount) to Jews—is one of the holiest sites for Jews and Muslims. According to the Muslim faith, the Prophet Muhammad made the ascent to heaven at Temple Mount, where the Dome of the Rock sits, and Jews believe this is the site where Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son. Visitors are allowed to view the area, however; only Muslims are allowed to go inside the temple. Modest dress is required.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre

You’ll see people in awe, crying, praying, and placing purchased objects on the Stone of Anointing, where Jesus’s body was prepared for burial, inside the Holy Sepulchre, a church built on the site of Jesus’s crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. Located in the Christian quarter of the Old City, you’ll see two chapels—one Greek Orthodox and one Catholic—and the Aedicule, a smaller chapel housing the Holy Sepulchre. Be prepared for long lines as tourists make their way through the sections.

Mahne Yehuda Market

Don’t be shy when you wander through this market full of delicious bites. Try the various types of halva, breads, nuts, dates, olives, hummus, pastas, and freshly squeezed juices. Take photographs of the tables with mounds of multi-hued spices. Watch locals haggle over prices on cuts of meat and fish. Take your time, sit at an outdoor café, and enjoy the great people-watching. This market is where everyone comes together to shop, eat, and relish each other’s company.

Via Dolorosa

julof90 / Getty Images 

Christian pilgrims make their way to Jerusalem’s Old City to walk the route Jesus walked from condemnation to crucifixion. Visitors walk and pray at 14 different Stations of the Cross including spots where Jesus was condemned, falls, meets his mother, is stripped of his garments, is nailed to the cross, and is put in the tomb. The Via Dolorosa, or Sorrowful Way, is an important historical and religious route not only for pilgrims and tourists, but also, for a Roman Catholic procession held each week.

City of David

Richard T. Nowitz / Getty Images

Archaeological digs still happen in the City of David, a settlement from the Canaanite period, and ancient relics from the Bronze Age to the Iron Age are constantly being discovered. See the Gihon Spring and the Pools of Siloam, and walk through Hezekiah’s Tunnel, which are part of an archaeological park. Splash through the Siloam Tunnel where water from the early spring still flows. It’s worth noting that the site, occupied by Israel, is controversial in terms of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Tower of David Museum

 Lucky-Photographer / Getty Images

Near the Jaffa Gate entrance to Jerusalem’s Old City, lies the Tower of David , where inside the citadel a museum sits. The museum hosts changing exhibits, cultural events and the well-loved nighttime showing of The Night Spectacular Sound and Light Show, which tells the story of Jerusalem’s history through the use of a laser projection system on the tower’s walls.

The Israel Museum

Glow Images/Getty

To learn about Israel’s art and archaeology, visit the Israel Museum. You’ll see the Shrine of the Book, which is where the Dead Sea Scrolls are located. Wander through the Archaeology and Fine Arts wings and explore the European, Modern, and Israeli art collections. Outside, walk around the large replica of the Second Temple Period.

Sarfoto / Getty Images

An ancient port city on Israel’s Mediterranean coast, built by Herod the Great, Caesarea is an archeological park which includes a large Roman amphitheater and remnants of a hippodrome where prisoners once fought wild animals, and horse-pulled chariots raced around a track. You’ll see ancient mosaics, created in intricate patterns, as well as a Roman aqueduct and palace remains.

Negev Desert

The vast Negev desert, which encompasses more than half of Israel’s land area, is home to the Makhtesh Ramon, a large erosion crater. Bedouins make their home throughout the desert, and some tours will allow you to meet a family in person. Jeep, camel, and hiking tours are popular in this area as is rappelling off of the edge into the Ramon crater.

Ten times saltier than the ocean and the lowest point on land, the Dead Sea is a well-visited destination in Israel and Jordan. People come for a spa vacation, to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, and to float on top of the water in an otherworldly landscape. Cover yourself in mineral-rich mud and soak in the water—just be sure that you don’t get the water in your eyes or in a cut, because it will sting.

 Wendy Altschuler

Masada National Park, located about an hour south of Jerusalem on the edge of the Dead Sea, is one of the most visited destinations in Israel. King Herod the Great built this ancient fortress on a plateau, which was later occupied by Jewish rebels who were fighting against the Roman Empire. After seven years, the Jewish people committed mass suicide rather than fall into the hands of the Romans, which today is seen as a strong example of resolve. Hike up the path to the top or opt for the cable car and give yourself a couple of hours to roam the grounds.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Israel

By Carl Austin · Last updated on November 2, 2023

For a country the size of New Jersey, Israel is startlingly diverse. Almost anywhere you travel in this Middle Eastern country, you’re sure to come across historic religious sites mentioned in the Bible. You’ll also come across ancient Roman ruins as well as other archaeological ruins dating back thousands of years.

If old things aren’t your cup of tea, Israel has some great beaches, good outdoor opportunities, and a sophisticated cultural scene. An overview of the best places to visit in Israel :

10. Nazareth [SEE MAP]

Nazareth, the largest city in Galilee, is known as the Arab capital of the country because its residents are predominantly Arab citizens of Israel. Nazareth is a pilgrimage destination for Christians because the Bible says it was the home of Joseph and Mary and hence the childhood home of Jesus.

This ancient city is where the angel Gabriel appeared to tell Mary she would give birth to Jesus. Because of this, Nazareth is sometimes called the cradle of Christianity. Its Old City boasts the Church of the Annunciation, the largest Catholic church in the Middle East. Take time, too, to walk the picturesque streets and visit the colorful local market.

9. Caesarea [SEE MAP]

Caesarea is both ancient and new. It was founded by Herod the Great in honor of Caesar Augustus, who gave him the city. In 1952, it became the only city in Israel to be governed by a private corporation. Antiquities park is where you’ll find ruins from Herod’s extensive building campaign.

You’ll also find more ruins by walking through the old city or maybe you’ll want to take in a re-enactment of horse races in the hippodrome. The new Caesarea is modern and upscale. Maybe you’ll want to sunbathe on the sandy beaches, play golf or take in the annual jazz festival.

8. Ramon Crater [SEE MAP]

Ramon Crater is the largest of three erosion craters found in the Negev Desert. The geological landform is believed to have started forming millions of years ago when the ocean began receding. It was a few more million years before it became the crater it is today.

Ringed by mountains, the colorful crater is more than 450 meters (1,500 feet) deep and nearly 40 km (25 miles) long. The world’s largest erosion crater is accessible to the public; you can ogle the varying terrain as you hike, bike or drive through it. Campers may enjoy staying at a campsite run by Bedouins.

7. Haifa [SEE MAP]

Israel may be a Jewish state, but it is another religion that draws visitors to Haifa, the country’s third largest city. Located on the Mediterranean, this pretty city’s biggest tourist attraction is the Baha’i World Center with its shrine of the Bab and beautiful gardens.

Haifa is primarily a port and industrial city, but it offers a variety of things to do. The Israel Museum of Science, Technology and Space is its most visited museum. The arts are important, too, with Ein Hod, home to about 100 artists and craftsmen. Haifa has nice beaches and is a good place to surf and sail.

6. Sea of Galilee [SEE MAP]

The Sea of Galilee of Galilee is the lowest freshwater lake on earth, and the second lowest lake in the world – the lowest being the saltwater Dead Sea. Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount was supposedly given on a hill overlooking the sea.

It’s a popular destination for Christian pilgrims who want to see where Jesus walked on water. The 65-km (40-mile) long Jesus Hiking Trail that visits places where Jesus worked his ministry is another draw. People also come from all over the world to be baptized at the spot the lake flows into the Jordan River.

5. Tel Aviv [SEE MAP]

Tel Aviv, Israel’s second largest city, is the country’s financial hub. But that doesn’t mean you should skip coming here because there’s lots see and do, especially if you’re into nightlife. Tel Aviv is known as a party city, as one that doesn’t sleep.

The city is home to the national opera and philharmonic orchestra. Several travel publication surveys rank the city among the best place to visit in Israel; it’s also famous for being LGBT friendly. Its Mediterranean beaches are some of the world’s best. The city has several outstanding museums, including Beth Hatefulsoth that tells the story of Jewish persecution over the ages.

4. Eilat [SEE MAP]

Eilat is an ancient city on the Red Sea that’s served as a port city since the days of King Solomon. Eilat is Israel’s southernmost city. Its sumptuous beaches and an arid climate contributes make it a major resort city. It has some of the best diving in the world, likely due to the beautiful coral reef located here.

If you dive, expect to see an astounding array of sea life. Other attractions include King City, a high-tech Bible-based family theme park; bird watching – Eilat is on the main migration route between Europe and Africa; and Timna Valley Park, home to Solomon’s Pillars and the world’s oldest copper mine.

3. Dead Sea [SEE MAP]

The Dead Sea got its name for a reason. It’s almost 10 times as salty as the ocean, making it a harsh environment for anything to grow in. And at 400 meters (1,400 feet) below sea level, it’s the lowest elevation on land.

For thousands of years; the salt and minerals from its water are used in cosmetics. Dead Sea water and mud have medically proven benefits, putting severe skin diseases and joint problems into long-term remission. All the luxury hotels along the coast have health spas, which are often booked solid for months ahead.

2. Masada [SEE MAP]

Situated on a high plateau in southern Israel overlooking the Dead Sea, Masada was the last Jewish holdout to fall to Rome at the end of the First Jewish–Roman War. Masada was first fortified by Herod the Great in the late first century BC. In 66 AD, Sicarii Jewish patriots captured the fortress from the Romans, who tried to take it back seven years later.

Rather than live under Roman rule, the 900 Sicarii opted for mass suicide. Today Masada is a symbol of ancient Israel and one of the best examples of Roman fortifications remaining. There’s a cable car for those who don’t fancy taking one of the various different paths that lead up the hill.

1. Jerusalem [SEE MAP]

Regarded as a holy city to the three major religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, Jerusalem is one of the world’s oldest cities. Located high in the Judean Mountains, Jerusalem was formerly inhabited by the Jebusite tribe until King David of the Israelites captured it 3,000 years ago and made it his capital city.

Over the centuries, the city has been besieged, attacked and captured numerous times by opposing religious and political powers. In spite of time and warfare, Jerusalem’s many historic sites remain well preserved, making it one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities of the world.

Its historic Old City is divided into four quarters: Jewish, Christian, Armenian and Muslim. Here you can walk in Jesus’ footsteps on the Via Dolorosa’, pray at the Western Wall, see the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, where Christians believe Jesus is buried, and tour the Tower of David, a medieval citadel. Other important sites include the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque at the Temple Mount. Outside the Old City, popular attractions are the Garden Tomb, Hezekiah’s Tunnels, Jerusalem Botanical Gardens and the Biblical Zoo.

Map of Israel

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August 7, 2019 at 11:33 pm

So excited to travel in Israel ? Hope i will enjoy it , and hopefully iit will be safe to stay there and people were super nice ❤️Good HEART

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Home » Travel Guides » Israel » 15 Best Places to Visit in Israel

15 Best Places to Visit in Israel

Israel is a complex, intriguing, and significant state to visit no matter your background. The region draws travelers worldwide who come out of interest, religious pilgrimage, or to simply have a luxurious vacation. From desert to sea, Israel is anything but boring. Those who visit gain a deeper understanding of life in one of the world’s most complicated places, and are sure to have an experience of a lifetime.

Adventure travelers will feel a thrill exploring Israel’s vast range of natural features, history buffs will get their fix among ancient ruins, foodies must try hummus flavored ice cream, and religious travelers will find deeper meaning.

No matter the type of visitor you are, here are the fifteen best places to visit in Israel when you go:

1. Jerusalem

One of the most historically important cities in the world, Jerusalem is home to the Old City, packed with religious sites like the Western Wall, the Church of Holy Sepulchre – where Jesus is thought to have risen from the dead, and Dome of the Rock. Also visit the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial center and the citadel of Tower of David. It’s a sacred city where Judaism, Islam, and Christianity all hold strong roots.

When not venturing through the Old City, head to the more modern area and sit at Ben Yehuda, one of the best spots for people watching. After sunset, go bar hopping and sample the local fare. Beware of visiting on the weekend, when religious ceremonies are likely to take place and restrict tourist movement.

2. Tel Aviv

With beaches, architecture, and historical sites, Tel Aviv is a well-rounded glimpse of Israel where many visitors opt to spend most of their time. Sharpen your bargaining skills at the Camel market in the city center, go wild with the nightlife venues, and explore the alleyways in the neighborhood of Old Jaffa.

The neighborhood of Miraflores is prime for shopping (especially diamonds) and trying the trendiest bars and restaurants. Also check out the Beit Hatfutsot Jewish histoy museum, Yarkon Park, and the ornate architecture of the city’s mosques and synagogues.

Don’t be fooled by the name of the Red Sea, located in Eilat, is one of the world’s best destinations for snorkeling and diving. Expect to see carpets of coral reef and schools of fish. For those who want to stay dry, head to the Underwater Observatory or one of Eilat’s pristine beaches set to the backdrop of granite hills.

When you get your land legs back, head to Timna Valley, the Yotvata Hai-Bar Nature Reserve, and the Aqaba Archaelogical Museum.

4. Tiberias

On the western side of the Sea of Galilee is Tiberias, one of the Judaism’s four holy cities and a popular vacation spot for Israelis and foreigners alike. Here, you can enjoy nearby hot springs, the Korazim National Park hosting an ancient synagogue, and a light show every evening that takes place on Tiberias promenade.

Tiberias is also the main touch point for Lake Kineret, also known as the Sea of Galilee, where visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and windsurfing on the state’s largest lake.

The Negev Desert spans as far as the eye can see, taking up over half of Israel’s landmass. Venture here for a magical sunrise or sunset to watch the tan sand shift from different hues of red to pink to yellow. Join an ATV tour, make some furry friends at the Negev Camel Ranch, and geology buffs will love the sandstone pillars of Timna Park.

Adventure travelers will get a thrill from walking around the Ramon Crater and through the valley of Ein Avdat. If you want to hike through the crater and up to Ramon’s tooth, plan on bringing a jug of water to combat the scorching heat. For those who prefer an expedition that includes air conditioning, hire a driver and travel through Negev with a 4×4 SUV.

Venture to the high altitudes of Safed, also known as Tsfat, where you’ll be in a sacred site atop Israel’s highest city. One of the four holy cities in Israel, Safed is home to a variety of colorful synagogues, mystics, and artists – who all feature their work at local galleries.

If you want to dive deeper into Jewish mysticism, head to the Tzfat Kabbalah Center to learn more about sages, artwork, and finding spiritual meaning in life.

A lively beach town loved by tourists and locals alike, Ashdod is a modern area with a variety of spas, shops, and parks. Don’t miss seeing Ashdod Yam Park, the fortress at Metzuda Beach, and take a dip at Gil Beach. As a creative touch, Ashdod also hosts “The Eye of the Sun,” a quirky giant sculpture that is illuminated by colorful lights every night (though many visitors claim it just looks like a crashed flying saucer).

8. Nimrod Fortress National Park

The Nimrod Fortress National Park has the ruins of a medieval Muslim fortress that tells a history of the Muslim rulers and their clash with Christian crusaders. It is the biggest castle in Israel, and has been a stronghold since the 13th century.

Walk through the fortress and discover dilapidated staircases once leading to a high tower, the outline of a labyrinth of hallways, watchtowers, and prepare to be met with incredible views.

9. Beit She’an

Beit She’an is one of Israel’s most beloved ancient city, that played an important role throughout history due to its strategic location. Today, it’s a mix of modern buildings and ancient ruins where travelers can visit its National Park and wander through the Crusader fortress of Kohav HaYarden.

Haifa is a modern city in northern Israel that is renowned for its diverse population prolific tech industry and community of young businessmen and women. Come here as a base for Mount Carmel and to admire the manicured Bahai Gardens and Golden Dome temple.

Take a walk down Yefe Nof street, the best viewpoint overlooking the city, and grab lunch at Dado Beach. Cultural buffs will also enjoy wandering through Haifa’s many museums, parks, and sports centers.

11. Old City of Akko

Acre, or Akko, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its preservation of medieval Crusader buildings intertwined with old Muslim architecture. Its baths, citadel, mosques, are well preserved and can be seen and learned about via a guided tour.

Visitors can spend days exploring the Enchanted Garden, the Hospitaller Fortress, the Al Basha Turkish Bath, the Templars’ Tunnel, visiting the Souk market and hundreds of other interesting sites. There are a variety of old inns that are interesting to walk through to see the grounds they would have stayed in dating back to the Crusader Period.

12. Garden of Gethsemene

At the foot of Mount of Olives near Jerusalem is the Garden of Gethsemane, known for being the site where Jesus prayed with his disciples and ascended into heaven. Whether you’re on a pilgrimage of sorts or simply a visitor interested in seeing a beautiful site of olive trees with an undeniable significance, this is a must-see stop while in Israel. If you go, arrive early to beat the crowds and to see the olive trees in soft lighting.

13. Bat Yam

Take a break from the heat of the desert and head to Bat Yam, an uncrowded town known for its pristine beach with interesting sculptures near the sand. Adventure enthusiasts will love Bat Yam as a base for surfing, windsufing, and paragliding. Spend time walking along the boardwalk and promenade, then head inland to the town’s museums for contemporary art and the Havayedda science center.

Overlooking the Dead Sea is Masada, a rust-colored mountain with a foreboding fortress balancing on top, built by King Herod the Great. Legend claims that during a siege of Masada, Jewish rebels commited mass-suicide by choosing to throw themselves off of the bordering cliff rather than be captured by Roman forces. Though exact details are questionable, Masada is a cultural, architectural, and natural must-see attraction while in Israel.

The best time to visit Masada is at sunrise, when it’s likely to be less busy and for great views of the desert below.

15. The Dead Sea

The Dead Sea, or the Salt Sea, is the lowest point in the world. Slather yourself in the dark mud and spend a day floating in the salty sea, over eight times saltier than the ocean. Floating in the sea makes you float as though you’ve put on a life preserver vest and is a feeling you won’t be able to get anywhere else in the world.

The combination of mud, salt, and heat is thought to purify the body and exfoliate the skin – an experience not offered at your everyday spa.

15 Best Places to Visit in Israel:

• Nimrod Fortress National Park
• Beit She’an
• Old City of Akko
• Garden of Gethsemene
• The Dead Sea

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• National Parks
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Israel , Middle East , Travel

The perfect israel itinerary – guide & interactive israel map.

If you’re visiting for only a few days, this Israel itinerary will allow you to see as much as possible in the time you have.

What to do in israel in 5 days – israel itinerary for travelers in a hurry.

From the lowest point on Earth in the middle of a vast desert to the lush peaks of the Carmel Mountains, from one of the most ancient cities in the world to a glittering seaside cosmopolitan hub… Israel takes it all and crams it into a tiny strip of land. I’ll tell you all of the best things to do in Israel during your time in this incredible country.

You can’t drive more than four hours in any direction from the airport without leaving the country, yet Israel offers enough to keep visitors’ itineraries jam-packed – whether you’re staying for five days or five weeks.

This five day Israel itinerary is enough to whet your appetite and leave you wanting more. To get a deeper sense of the country and explore more, I encourage you to consider a 10 day trip to Israel – this itinerary has all the details you need to plan your entire trip, and you can even use it as the foundation for a shorter trip by just picking the days you’re most excited about.

Israel Itinerary Map

Day 1: Exploring Tel Aviv – An Israel Must See

Shalom, and welcome to Israel! You’ll start your short visit to Israel in the bustling modern city of Tel Aviv, perched on miles of a gorgeous Mediterranean coastline. It’s a must on your any Israel Itinerary. Tel Aviv is a fascinatingly diverse city of neighborhoods and today you’ll get to explore a few of them.

If you want to know what to do in Israel to relax, Tel Aviv is a great choice. Start off recovering from your flight with a relaxing stroll south along the beachside promenade, the tayelet . You’ll take it all the way to Old Jaffa, which has origins as a port city dating back to the days of Jonah in the Bible!

Start off by wandering up to the lovely Gan HaPisga, one of the most incredible places to see in Tel Aviv, where you’ll enjoy the lovely flowers and great coastal views. Next spend some time exploring the narrow, winding alleys filled with art galleries and studios. You’ll finally make your way down to the port itself, which has recently been revitalized into industrial-style galleries and is one of Tel Aviv’s new hot spots.

For lunch in Jaffa you have two excellent options:

The Old Man and the Sea : If you want a hearty traditional dining experience, head to The Old Man and the Sea. Your meal will start with a course of salatim , small dishes of various types of salad that are typical of Israeli cuisine. Thanks to its location in the Jaffa Port, The Old Man and the Sea is known for excellent, fresh fish entrees – you can’t go wrong with those!

Abu Hassan: If you’re looking for a meal on a budget or you want a different kind of traditional experience, head to nearby Abu Hassan. There’s very little disagreement: Abu Hassan serves up the best hummus in Israel . My personal recommendation is to order the masabacha , a mix of hummus, tehina and whole chickpeas. It’s served warm with a basket of fluffy pita. You may not think of a bowl of hummus as an entire meal, but that’s how it’s treated by Tel Avivians in the know.

The afternoon is a great opportunity to head back north and see some of Tel Aviv’s oldest – and most unique – neighborhoods. To see some fantastic spots with the context of expert explanation, grab this self-guided audio tour . It covers the Levinsky Market – one of the most authentic markets you’ll see when you visit Israel – and the diverse Florentine, where you’ll see fantastic Tel Aviv street art. The fee you pay for the tour includes samples at some of the market’s best shops, so you’ll have plenty of delicious sustenance for your exploration!

Walk just a few more blocks to the lovely, refined neighborhood of Neve Tzedek. This was the first Jewish neighborhood outside of Jaffa, and now it’s home to cafes, art galleries, book stores and more.

When it’s time for sunset, be sure to head back to the coast and find a lovely perch to enjoy it. Mediterranean sunsets can’t be beaten!

For dinner, you’ll head back toward Jaffa but this time to the Flea Market district. At night it comes alive as a vibrant scene for restaurants and bars. Your destination is Onza, one of the city’s best restaurants. It offers a contemporary twist on traditional Turkish cuisine and is one of my personal favorites.

Highlights in Tel Aviv:

• Tayelet- Beach Promenade
• Gan HaPisga
• The Old Man and the Sea
• Levinsky Market
• Neve Tzedek
• Flea Market district

Day 2: Day trip in Coastal Israel

One of the prettiest areas of Israel is its lush northern coastline. The coast is one of the best places to visit in Israel. Today on your Israel itinerary you’ll spend the entire day exploring it! There are two ways you can manage the logistics, each with pros and cons. If you want the flexibility to move at your own pace or you’re traveling with a family, it might be worth renting a car (in downtown Tel Aviv, not at the airport). If you’re visiting solo or you’d rather have everything planned for you, you can hop on a guided day trip to take you up and down the coast.

Regardless of how you opt to handle the logistics, you’ll see beautiful, interesting places. On a longer itinerary, you’d probably want to spend the night in the north to see everything, but with just one day you may need to prioritize just a few of these spots to visit. Here are some of the best places to visit in Israel along the Carmel coast, from south to north:

Caesarea National Park

This ancient Roman settlement was established as a port for the newly-expanded empire around 25 BCE and used as such for over 1500 years. The city is still remarkably well-preserved and includes residential buildings, a commercial area, an amphitheater and a chariot racing arena. The site is very large, so plan to spend about two hours exploring. There are several on-site restaurants to grab a lovely lunch with a view.

Ba’hai Gardens

This is known as one of the most amazing things to see in Israel. The diverse coastal city of Haifa is home to the Ba’hai World Center and its famous gardens. If you have just a few minutes, stop at the top of the garden to sneak a peek from the top level (this is what the day trip options do). With more time, you can take a guided tour all the way down through the garden – just be sure to check the English time slots in advance as they’re limited. If you plan to enter the garden, be sure to wear modest clothing that covers you knees and shoulders.

The ancient city of Akko is a fascinating look at Israel’s layers of history. You can explore the old Ottoman city, the Crusader fort, underground tunnels and more. The traditional market is a fun place to wander and sample delicious traditional food.

Rosh Hanikra

We love the limestone cliffs and grottoes of Rosh Hanikra, right on the border with Lebanon. The world’s steepest cable car takes you from the top to the bottom, where you can wind through the caverns and explore the fascinating nooks and crannies. There’s also an interesting historical movie shown in one of the caves that explains the history of the railway that once ran right next to the grottoes and in to Lebanon.

For dinner nearby, try Michael Local Bistro – famous for its Israeli take on the farm-to-table movement.

At the end of the day, head back to Tel Aviv for the night. If you’ve rented a car, you can either keep it to do more self-guided exploration for days 4 and 5 or return it if you plan to use public transportation and/or guided tours for those days.

Day 3: Jerusalem’s Holy Sites and the Shuk

On day 3 of your Israel itinerary, you’ll visit the famous Holy Sites of Jerusalem. No matter your religious affiliation, visiting Jerusalem’s holy sites is one of the best things to do in Israel and an absolute must. Religion and history are all intertwined and it’s fascinating learning about both in this country, both of which are at the heart of many ancient and modern religions today.

One of the great things about traveling in Israel is just how close much of the country is. This morning you’ll leave early to go from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, which should take about an hour.

If you’ve already returned your rental car you can take either the bus or the newly-completed fast train. If you choose public transportation, you may need to take either a local bus or a taxi to your hotel to drop your bags depending on where you’re staying.

You’ll want to be done dropping your bags in time to arrive at Jaffa Gate for your 11 am tour of Jerusalem’s holy sites in the Old City. This excellent free tour lasts around 2 hours (but could go a bit longer) and visit all four quarters to give a brief introduction to the main sites of the Old City.

When your tour is done, grab lunch at Tala Hummus in the Old City (you’ll even get a discount from your tour guide). Even though it’s a restaurant frequented by tour groups, it’s quite good and hits the spot in a convenient location!

Due to the limited time available on the tour, you won’t go inside the Old City’s various holy sites. After lunch, you can opt to return to the Western Wall or the Church of the Holy Sepulchre if those are of special interest to you. If you choose to go to the Western Wall, you can even take a tour underneath to see various levels of excavation of the original Temple walls!

After you’ve had your fill of the Old City you’ll walk along the modern Jaffa Street to Jerusalem’s famous Machne Yehuda market (also called “the shuk ”). If you’re feeling tired or the heat is extreme, you can also hop aboard the light rail that runs through the middle of the street and stops right outside the market entrance.

Wander the market, take in the sights and smells, ask for samples. It’s an experience you can’t miss! Be sure to stop my favorite bakery, Marzipan, for some of their world-renowned ruggalah . It’s absolutely incredible, so make sure you buy a few extra to send my way.

After you’ve filled up at the market, you can enjoy more strolling time along Jaffa Street and its many off-shoots until it’s time for dinner. You’ll head back to the shuk , which transforms after dark into one of Jerusalem’s evening hot spots! Enjoy dinner at Machneyuda, often regarded as one of the country’s best and most creative restaurants – just be sure to make a reservation in advance (sometimes a month or more).

If you still have energy, head back to the Old City for one of the stunning “sound and light” shows put on by the Tower of David. They project images directly on to the city walls taking you on an amazing journey through history.

Day 4: Day Trip to the Dead Sea

Swimming in the Dead Sea is one of those can’t-miss once-in-a-lifetime experiences on any Israel itinerary, so we’ve gotta make it happen even with a short time in Israel! The good news is that you can be at the most beautiful part of the Dead Sea in just under two hours from Jerusalem.

The better news is that there are some absolutely fantastic places to visit along the way to make a complete day trip. You can either spend this day exploring on your own if you have a rental car or take a guided tour like this one .

I recommend eating breakfast before you leave Jerusalem and bringing a picnic lunch with you, as food options are slim (and generally not great).

Masada is one of the best outdoor attractions in Israel . Visit the mountain-top fortress where 1st-century Jews took refuge from Roman rule. If you arrive early enough in the day (in the summer, often before 8 AM) and you’re in very good shape, you can hike up the “snake path”. It takes 1-1.5 hours as you ascend 1300 feet.

The snake path is the only way to see the sunrise at Masada, which is very popular but requires you to leave from Jerusalem extremely early – potentially around 4 am in summer. Most people choose to ascend and descend via cable car, which you can do at any time of day.

Earth’s lowest point is the Dead Sea, the shrinking extremely salty sea in the middle of the desert. It’s called “Dead” because it’s so salty that nothing can survive. I recommend visiting the southern section near Ein Bokek. It doesn’t have the mud you’ll find in the northern section, but the water is prettier, the floating is better and the beach access is free.

The final stop of the day is one of the best places in Israel, Ein Gedi. This oasis in the desert provides some great easy hiking and lovely freshwater springs perfect for a swim after a hot day of exploring.

After your day in the desert, head back to Jerusalem for dinner and the evening. If it happens to be a Tuesday, this is a great time to head to The Israel Museum while it’s open later (more info on The Israel Museum for day 5 below). Otherwise head to the Jerusalem First Station ( HaTachana ), the old train station that has been converted into a wonderful public space that includes plenty of restaurants, boutiques, arcade games, fun events, and more.

Day 5: Discover Israel your way

On the final day of your Israel itinerary, choose your activities based on your own interests.

If Jewish and Israeli history is your main interest, this is a good day to split between The Israel Museum and Yad Vashem. The Israel Museum has a world-class collection that includes the Dead Sea Scrolls, thousands of years of archeological sites from the region, unique synagogue interiors from around the world and much more. There are also several restaurants on-site where you can grab a delicious lunch.

In the afternoon pay respects to victims of the Holocaust at Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center. There are numerous memorials on the site and you’ll want to take your time to go through them and also process what you’re seeing.

Christian pilgrims to the Holy Land should spend the final day visiting two important sites: Bethlehem and the Mount of Olives. A visit to Bethlehem , located in the West Bank, will take you to the Church of the Nativity, the Franciscan Grotto of Lady Mary and the Shepherd’s fields.

The walking tour will return you to Jerusalem, where you can grab a quick lunch. You’ll continue your spiritual journey in the afternoon with a guided visit to the Mount of Olives. The tour will include churches, the Mosque of Ascension, Mary’s Tomb, the Jewish cemetery, and iconic views of the Old City.

If you are interested in diving deeper into the Israeli-Arab conflict, sign up for the excellent Hebron dual-narrative tour offered by Abraham Tours. The tour includes both an Israeli guide and an Arab guide, each explaining their side’s view of the conflict as you explore the sites of Hebron that are holy to Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

Combining a Trip to Jordan and Israel

Many visitors coming to Israel choose to combine their trip and do a Jordan and Israel combination trip. Crossing from Israel to Jordan on land is fairly easy for most tourists. It might take some time, so be patient. There are three land border crossings between Jordan and Israel:

You may want to consider getting your Israel Passport Entry Stamp on a separate paper instead of on your passport. Having an Israel stamp won’t restrict your entrance to Jordan, it’s quite common, but it may impact your ability to enter other Muslim countries in the future, so it’s better safe than sorry, unless you know you won’t be visiting them.

Jordan Guide

If you decide to combine your Israel itinerary with a trip to Jordan, be sure to check out my Jordan Itinerary . It’s one of my favorite places in the middle east.

Want to Make your Trip Planning Easier?

If you want to make your trip to Israel and/or Jordan memorable, but want to skip the stress of planning, these guides are the perfect open-and-go solution. They provide day-by-day itineraries, interactive maps, tour and accommodation recommendations, and more insider tips!

I hope this Israel itinerary has given you a taste of what you’ll find in Israel! For even more details to plan your entire trip or to extend your visit longer, check out this detailed itinerary and more helpful resources like where to stay in Israel , what to pack and more !

This itinerary was written by Melissa from The Family Voyage , who is my Israel Expert!

Israel Itinerary FAQ

If you’re traveling to Israel, around seven days is usually enough, though it depends on your preference and interests. You could easily spend a week in Jerusalem alone or take a more leisurely approach and spend a couple of days in each of the main cities.

Yup, if you want a jam-packed adventure to Israel, might as well consider going on tours so you can cover more ground. With 7 days in Israel, you’ll be able to explore the country’s key cities and attractions, including Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and the Dead Sea.

Yes, depending on the itinerary you follow, it is possible to cover the main attractions within Israel in a 5-day period. However, if you want to experience as much of the country as possible, it’s best to give yourself a week or two.

It’s best to go here from April to October when the weather is mostly sunny and dry. December to March can be colder and wetter but, depending on your preference, this might still be a great time to visit as the country isn’t as crowded and you can experience Israel’s winter charm.

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Israel Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Israel travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

For centuries, members of the three Abrahamic religions (Judaism, Christianity and Islam) have been traveling to Israel to visit some of the holiest sites in their faiths.

Today, Israel has something to offer every kind of traveler, religious or not.

This country is home to thousands of years of history, diverse cultures, and some of the most beautiful sights in the world.

Whether you want to relax on a Mediterranean beach or explore holy ground, you’ll find something exciting to do in Israel.

Israel’s major cities have their own vibe and unique attractions.

Those looking to explore the history and religious significance of the area should head to Jerusalem, home to some of the most important sites in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Jerusalem’s Old City tells the story of the city’s history, dating back to 1004 B.C and continuing through countless empires and eras.

In Tel Aviv , you can get a taste of Israel’s history in the ancient port city of Jaffa and then head to the trendy neighborhood of Neve Tzedek to experience Israel’s modern present.

There is also Haifa, a city home to the Baha’i World Centre on Mount Carmel with incredible gardens that anyone can enjoy. The city is also home to some of the nation’s best beaches.

For those looking to get out in nature, Israel has lots of great options.

For a classic Israeli experience, head to the Negev Desert to visit the Dead Sea and the ancient fortress of Masada.

Here, the truly brave can repel down into the Ramon Crater , one of the largest in the country, for a truly unique desert experience. You also can’t miss the chance to float in the Dead Sea, the lowest place on the planet, or camp under the stars for an out-of-this-world view.

For more lush views, head to En Gedi Nature Reserve in the Judean Desert. Here, you can hike around breathtaking waterfalls and see some of the country’s native flora.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Israel in the Middle East.

Note: This ultimate guide to Israel travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Use this Israel travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Best Places To Visit In Israel

The following guides share Israel highlights and experiences that you won’t want to miss!

Active Middle East: Amazing Desert Adventures In Israel

Ramon Crater Adventure: That Time I Hurled Myself Into Israel’s Largest Crater

Israel’s Best-Kept Secret: Eliat’s Treehouse Spa

Awesomely Offbeat Things To Do In Tel Aviv, Israel

Israel’s Dead Sea Like You’ve Never Seen It Before

Travel Tips For Israel

Plan the perfect trip with these Israel travel tips !

10 Reasons Why Israel Should Be Your Next Trip

Solo Female Travel In Israel: The Ultimate Guide

10 Best Hikes In Israel You Shouldn’t Miss (Epic!)

Best Israel Tours

Explore local culture with an Israel tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Hot Air Balloon Flight Including Champagne Gourmet Breakfast and Souvenirs from the Northern District
• Mount Sinai and Saint Catherines Monastery Day Trip from Eilat
• Local Israeli Cooking Class in Tel Aviv
• Tel Aviv Highlights Bike Tour from Ramat Gan
• Timna Park Jeep Tour from Eliat
• Dead Sea, Sunrise at Masada & Ein Gedi Nature Reserve Tour from Tel Aviv
• Golan Heights Day Trip from Tel Aviv
• Desert Jeep Tour: Mar Saba Monastery and Wadi Qelt from Jerusalem

Renting A Car In Israel

Need a rental car for your Israel trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Israel Hotels

Click here to browse the best Israel travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays and experiences:

Israel Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on an Israel tour. When visiting Israel — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Israel travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Israel Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Israel .

Q: What are the best cities in Israel to visit?

If you have to pick three cities to visit in Israel, make them Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Bethlehem.

These three cities will give you a feel for the country’s storied past and cosmopolitan present while offering something for every kind of traveler.

Tel Aviv is a lively beachside metropolis with one of the most exciting cultural scenes in the world. Walk around the trendy neighborhood of Neve Tzedek and check out both small art galleries and major institutions like the Rokach House Museum.

Additionally, learn more about the Jewish Diaspora at Beit Hatfutsot at Tel Aviv University. Wander around the White City, a UNESCO Heritage Site full of cream-colored Bauhaus-style buildings. Or just lounge on the beach and enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine!

Jerusalem is a must-visit for travelers of all faiths. Here, you can visit a truly ancient city and some of the holiest sites in the world.

You’ll find most of Jerusalem’s top attractions in the Old City, a neighborhood that dates back to 1004 B.C. and blends aspects of Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Armenian cultures.

The Old City contains the Western Wall, the holiest site in the Jewish faith; Temple Mount and the Dome of the Rock, the location of the two Jewish Temples and a significant site in Islam; and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a basilica built on what is believed to be the site of Jesus’s tomb.

Beyond the Old City, you can check out the famous Dead Sea Scrolls at the Israel Museum or browse the culinary offerings available at the Mahane Yehuda Market.

Jerusalem is also home to a thriving nightlife scene with chic cocktail bars and galleries to explore.

Moreover, the city of Bethlehem is home to many important religious sites, particularly for Christians as it is believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ.

Here, you can visit the Church of the Nativity, built on what is believed to be the site of Jesus’s birth, and the Milk Grotto, where the Holy Family is said to have hidden during the Massacre of the Innocents.

Bethlehem is also a great place to experience and learn more about Palestinian culture.

The Old Bethlehem Museum features a recreation of a 19th-century Palestinian home as well as several other historic artifacts. You can also stop by the Palestinian Heritage Center where you can find handmade clothing, jewelry, and other products from local Palestinian artisans.

Q: What should I know before traveling to Israel?

One of the most important things to keep in mind when planning a trip to Israel is Shabbat, or the Jewish Sabbath.

The weekend consists of Friday and Saturday in Israel as Saturday is the holiest day of the week.

Most businesses and public transit systems shut down from sundown on Friday nights to sundown on Saturday nights to observe Shabbat.

You’ll likely find a few places open here and there (particularly in more secular cities) but this probably won’t be a day for major activities and dining plans.

If you’re in a predominantly Jewish city like Jerusalem, be prepared to take the stairs as many businesses shut down their elevators on Shabbat. If you’re touring the country and want to avoid the effects of Shabbat, this might be a good time to visit a predominantly Christian city like Nazareth or a Muslim city like Acre.

While Hebrew is Israel’s official language, you’ll find that English is widely spoken. About 85% of the country’s population speak at least some English, so you shouldn’t have too much of a problem communicating with locals.

The Israeli people are also known to be quite warm and sociable and greet people with hugs and kisses on the cheek.

They are also very direct communicators and not afraid to share their opinions. If you end up in a lively debate over dinner at your new Israeli friend’s house, don’t be surprised!

It’s also very important to be respectful of the different cultures and religions of Israel. You’ll want to be aware of the dress codes and modesty guidelines for different religious sites before you visit.

Women are asked to cover their knees and shoulders at most places of worship and may be asked to cover their hair at Islamic holy sites. Keep a scarf or shawl handy just in case.

Men are generally required to keep their knees and shoulders covered, as well. These are also good guidelines to keep in mind when visiting more religious neighborhoods and cities.

Q: Is it safe to travel to Israel?

The threat of terrorism is an unfortunate reality that many live with in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. It’s important to be aware of these threats and keep an eye on the news while traveling in this region.

That said, Israel is known to be quite safe for travelers due to its low crime rate and emphasis on security. You’ll see this as soon as you cross the border. For instance, you’ll probably face more questions from security officers than “business or pleasure?”.

Security officers are also present throughout Israeli cities, particularly at major religious sites.

And as with any major travel destination, you’ll want to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times to avoid pickpocketing and petty theft.

If you plan on visiting cities like Bethlehem, Ramallah and Jericho, you’ll need to cross into the West Bank, an area controlled by Palestinian authorities. Security is particularly strict on the Israeli-West Bank border, so it’s important to take the border crossing process seriously and answer any questions from security officers honestly.

It’s best to stick to the major cities and tourist areas when visiting the West Bank, and you may even want to travel with a tour group for added safety and ease.

Due to the increased rates of violence, most governments and travel experts warn travelers against visiting the Gaza Strip.

Q: How much money do I need per day in Israel?

The average traveler spends around $107 USD per day in Israel on accommodations, food, transportation, attractions, and other expenses.

How much you spend per day varies from city to city; Tel Aviv is considered one of the most expensive cities in the world and accommodation prices are rising across the country.

Q: How many days do you need for Israel?

Most experts recommend planning for about 10 days in Israel. This will give you a few days to spend in the major cities as well as time to visit the Dead Sea and other attractions off the beaten path.

Q: What is the best month to visit Israel?

If you’re looking for mild weather, it’s a toss up between the spring months (April and May) and autumn months (September and October), though note Passover in the spring can drive up prices and crowds.

Q: How long can a tourist stay in Israel?

Tourists from many countries — like the United States and Canada — can visit Israel for up to 90 days without a visa.

Q: Do I need an Israel travel visa?

Travelers from the United States, Canada, and several other countries do not need a visa to visit Israel for a period of fewer than 90 days.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Israel International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit rules and Israel Travel Requirements. You can also contact the Embassy of Israel.

Q: Can you tour Israel on your own?

Yes. You do not need a tour guide to explore Israel, though having one can certainly provide you a deeper understanding of the place.

Q: Where is Israel?

Israel is located in the Middle East. It shares land borders with Lebanon (north), Syria (northeast), Jordan (east), the Palestinian territories of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip (east and west, respectively), and Egypt (southwest).

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Israel?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Israel, though it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Israel?

The tap water is safe to drink in Israel in most places, though not the Dead Sea. It is always safe to double-check with your hotel, as well.

Q: What is the local currency in Israel?

The local currency in Israel is the New Israel Shekel (NIS).

What would you add to this Israel travel guide?

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Main Israel Destinations and Tourist Attractions

Israel is a small but beautiful country filled with natural landscapes, wonderful beaches, and a fascinating history. With so many destinations, you may think planning a trip can be an overwhelming task. Don’t worry, though. We came up with this comprehensive travel guide to help you make the most of your visit to this wonderful country.

From Jerusalem to Tel Aviv, from deserts to beaches, we list down the main places to visit in Israel.

This city is the heart of the Holy Land. It’s where Jesus Christ died and came back to life, and where the Prophet Muhammad rose to heaven to receive the word of God. A visit to Jerusalem, for many believers, is a pilgrimage to one of the most sacred sites around the world. When you’re checking out this major Israeli destination, check out the following attractions:

1. Wailing Wall

Also known as the Western Wall, this tourist spot is the surviving retaining wall of the first temple of Jerusalem. People wailed in this wall to grieve the temple’s loss in AD 70. Today, it’s the holiest site for the Jewish people and a place of pilgrimage.

2. Via Dolorosa

Many Christian visitors see Via Dolorosa, also known as the Way of Sorrow, as a highlight of their visit to Jerusalem. The walk follows the route of Jesus as he carries his cross towards Mount Calvary. If you visit on a Friday, you may join the procession led by Italian Franciscan monks.

3. Temple Mount

Lauded by Muslims, Christians, and Jews, Temple Mount (or Haram Al-Sharif) is one of the holiest sanctuaries on Earth. This is where Abraham, the father of the three monotheistic faiths, offered his son Isaac as a sacrifice to God. It’s also where the Prophet Muhammad rose to heaven during his early years of preaching Islam.

4. Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Many Christian pilgrims view this Israeli tourist spot as the holiest site in Jerusalem, as they identify the site as the place of Jesus’ crucifixion. Empress Helena, the mother of Constantine the Great, chose the site as the main location of the church during her tour of the Holy Land . When you enter the church, you’ll find quarters owned by different Christian denominations as well as various holy relics.

5. Tower of David

King Herod erected this ancient citadel to protect the palace he built around 24 BC. When you enter the Tower of David, you’ll find a museum, which relays the story of Jerusalem. You can also enjoy a Sound and Light show during the evenings.

6. Mount Zion

This small hill situated south of the Zion Gate is home to Muslim and Jewish shrines. It is where you’ll find the tomb of King David. If you go up the stairs from the courtyard of the tomb, you’ll come across the Last Supper Room, which served as both a mosque and a church throughout its long history. Apart from the tomb, you can visit other historic One of these is the Church of the Dormition where the Blessed Virgin Mary passed away. Another is the Church of St. Peter of Gallicantu, where Peter denied Jesus.

7. Mount of Olives

Religious pilgrim travelers will find this Israeli tourist attraction filled with churches. At the top of the mount, you’ll see the Church of the Ascension, which offers spectacular views across Jerusalem. Walking down the slope, you’ll find the Church of the Pater Noster, erected near the site where Jesus instructed his disciples. Walk further down and you’ll come across the Church of Dominus Flevit where Jesus wept for Jerusalem. Besides the churches, you’ll find other major attractions, such as the Tomb of the Virgin Mary and the Gardens of Gethsemane, where the temple guards of the Sanhedrin arrested Jesus Christ.

8. Israel Museum

Different sections of the museum feature sacred Jewish art, a collection of works by Israeli painters, and exhibits from the early days of settlement. The museum also has a Shrine of the Book building that displays the country’s portion of the Dead Sea Scrolls.

9. Monastery of the Cross

Legend says that the Prophet Lot lived on the site where the medieval monastery stood. Additionally, people believed that the trees planted by Lot had provided the wood for the cross carried by Jesus Christ.

10. Mount Herzl

You’ll find the remains of Theodor Herzl, the founder of Zionism, on this site. This tourist attraction also features the Herzl Museum with a reconstruction of Herzl’s library and study.

11. Latrun Monastery

French Trappist Monks built the monastery in 1927. UK authorities had a reinforced police post during the British Mandate period. This post stood on the armistice line between Israel and Jordan. Today, living quarters and a large church sit on the monastery grounds.

12. Hill of Remembrance

Also known as Yad Vashem, the hill is home to the Hall of Remembrance, the first Holocaust commemoration site. The hall’s main building lists the names of Nazi death camps as well as an “eternal flame” to honor the memory of the dead. Opening off the main hall is a photo exhibition, children’s memorial, the names of the Holocaust victims, and works of art made by inmates from the concentration camps.

This city is Israel’s most modern metropolis. Many tourists visit Tel Aviv to soak up the sun, shop in a cutesy boutique, and enjoy delicious food at the city’s renowned restaurant and café scene. If you’re heading to Tel Aviv, drop by these destinations:

13. Yemenite Quarter

This tourist spot is one of the city’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. It’s full of alleyways lined by old-style architecture that withstood the gentrification of the area. If you’d like to enjoy an affordable meal, head to Carmel Market, a place that’s colorful, busy, and full of fresh produce.

14. Tel Aviv Beaches

Banana Beach, Frishman Beach, and Gordon Beach are just some of the popular sandy stretches that draw both tourists and locals. You’ll find excellent facilities, such as sun loungers, freshwater showers, and sunshades for rent.

15. Yitzhak Rabin Center

Named after former minister Yitzhak Rabin, this tourist spot is home to the Israel Museum. Visiting this center and museum lets you learn more about the history of Israel. You’ll also discover the life of Rabin from his early years right up to his assassination by Jewish terrorists.

16. Beit Hatefutsoth

This museum illustrates the culture and life of the Jewish people across the globe throughout history. It displays a wide range of exhibits, including models and film recordings, to record the world’s Jewish population through the centuries. It also features a Bob Dylan exhibit as well as exhibits devoted to the Ethiopian Jewish community.

17. Eretz Israel Museum

This attraction houses the Tell Qasile archaeological site, a planetarium, and pavilions with displays on folklore, ethnography, science, history of writing, glass, and ceramics.

18. Tel Aviv Museum of Art

This art museum contains works by Jackson Pollock, Picasso, Henry Moore, Van Gogh, Monet, Degas, and the world’s biggest collection of artwork by Israeli artists. Its sophisticated architecture perfectly showcases and highlights its artworks.

19. Bialik Street

This street has three historical houses that will pique the interest of individuals who love culture and history. First is the Beit Ha’ir, which displays the history of Tel Aviv. Second is the Bialik House, which highlights the life and works of poet Chaim Nachman Bialik. Last is the Rubin Museum, which used to be the house of artist Reuven Rubin. The museum houses paintings and old photos of Tel Aviv.

20. Dizengoff Circle

This tourist attraction features a Fire and Water Fountain, a peculiar modern art designed by Israeli artist Yaacov Agam. It’s also home to the Habima Theater, the cultural center of Tel Aviv, and the Helena Rubinstein Pavilion of Contemporary Art.

21. Rothschild Boulevard

If you’re looking for a great place to stroll in the early evening, visit this central city street. Along the road, you’ll come across the Independence Hall, the former residence of the first mayor of Tel Aviv. You’ll also find the Haganah Museum, which documents the activities of the Haganah guerrilla force.

22. Netanya

This seaside resort city has a golden sand beach that extends for more than 10 kilometers. Locals flock to this major attraction during sunny weekends to have a good time with friends and family. If you don’t like Tel Aviv’s big-city vibe and prefer a quieter alternative, Netanya is for you.

Considered as the undisputed holiday capital of Israel, Eilat offers visitors with a spectacular combination of a beautiful bay and a mountainous desert landscape. It’s also home to dozens of shopping centers, restaurants, hotels, clubs, and bars. When you’re stopping by this city, here are some of the attractions you can check out:

23. Coral Beach Underwater Observatory

Science and aquarium lovers will love this tourist spot, as it includes 40 fish tanks, a shark pool, a stingray and sea turtle pool, a nature museum, and underwater observatories. There’s even a darkroom designed specifically for the flashlight fish, a bioluminescent animal that has glowing bacteria under their eyes.

24. Mount Zefahot Trail

This circular hiking trail is an opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views over Eilat, the Sinai Peninsula, and the town of Aqaba. If you plan to hike this trail, it’s best to do so early in the morning to avoid the day’s scorching heat.

25. King’s City Theme Park

If your kids are getting bored of the sand and sun, visit this theme park with a unique Holy Land twist. The rides have a historical theme.

26. Ice Space

This wacky tourist attraction throws you from the desert into the freezing Arctic. As you check out the ice sculptures on display, you’ll find that the temperature inside is at a constant -7°C. This blissfully cold treat may be just what you need after exploring the desert.

27. Dolphin Reef

This tourist spot is the place to go if you feel like snorkeling with dolphins. You can interact with a group of bottlenose dolphins that live just offshore by signing up for a tour. Alternatively, you can watch the dolphins from dry land through one of the observation decks.

28. Red Canyon

Nature lovers and hikers who want a taste of adventure but have no time to explore the desert scenery further may visit the Red Canyon. It has a well-marked trail that leads to the canyon’s red-tinged rock.

29. Hai-Bar Nature Reserve

This expansive 10,000-acre park is home to various wildlife, including ostriches, hyenas, antelopes, and other creatures of the desert. The goal of this reserve is to populate the area with animals that lived here since ancient times.

This location is popular with pilgrim travelers, as Jesus Christ carried out much of his ministry work in this area. It’s also popular with tourists who want to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. When going to Galilee, don’t miss visiting these tourist sites.

30. Sea of Galilee

This turquoise and magical body of water is Israel’s greatest national treasure. It holds major religious significance as well as touristic value due to the beauty of its surroundings.

31. Nazareth

This place once served as the village of Jesus’ youth. Today, it’s a modern city and an important center for the Arab community of Israel. Some of the religious sites you’ll find are the Basilica of the Annunciation, the Basilica of Jesus the Adolescent, and St. Joseph’s Church.

32. Bar’am National Park

This park includes the remains of a 4th- to 5th-century synagogue and the ancient village of Bar’am. You can visit the graves said to be those of Mordechai and Queen Esther at the Bar’am Forest.

33. Safad (Tsfat)

This mountain city located northeast of the Sea of Galilee has been a center for Jewish mysticism and scholarship since the 15th century.

This region offers a lot of beautiful desert scenery and ancient ruins. It’s a prime tourist destination for people who appreciate natural beauty. The attractions you’ll see here include:

34. Sde Boker

The main attraction in this kibbutz is Ben-Gurion’s House. This attraction showcases an interesting collection of black-and-white photos and original documents and letters written by David Ben-Gurion, the primary national founder and first Prime Minister of Israel.

35. Makhtesh Ramon

This geological feature is a paradise for geologists, as it features rock formations and fossils dating as far back as 220 million years.

36. Mampsis

Ancient Mampsis, along with its remarkable ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A few of the structures you’ll come across here are the West Church, the East Church dedicated to Holy Martyrs, and the ruins of a British Mandate police post.

37. En Avdat

This area has a spring in the middle of a barren upland region. Ibexes, which are wild goats with thick-ridged horns, live in this area to drink water from the spring.

You’ll find the Church of St. Theodore in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church is a three-aisled basilica dedicated to a fourth-century Greek martyr.

39. Museum of Bedouin Culture

This museum displays an intriguing ethnographic collection, which includes exhibits of silver jewelry, agricultural and domestic equipment, clothing and other textiles, and various everyday objects. Individuals interested in nomadic cultures should drop by this museum.

40. Be’er Sheva

Known as the city of the Patriarchs in the Old Testament, Be’er Sheva is one of the biggest cities in the country. Some of the main tourist attractions you should visit are Abraham’s Well, the Museum of Negev Art, and the Thursday Bedouin Market.

41. Nitzana

This Nabataean town has a church with a mosaic pavement. Check out the Nitzana National Park established along the spice route.

This location is home to the well-preserved ruins of a Byzantine city with paved streets, water cisterns, dwellings, and monastic church.

Haifa is a lively port city with steep cliffs that make the area beautiful. It has excellent art museums, holy shrines, beautiful gardens, and fantastic views that you’ll surely enjoy. If you’re planning to have an enjoyable time in Haifa, make sure to visit the following attractions:

42. Caesarea

This tourist spot is one of the country’s most fascinating ancient sites. Among the attraction’s highlights are the ancient aqueduct, Roman Theater, and the remains of the Crusader city.

43. Elijah’s Cave

Believers say that the Prophet Elijah hid in this cave after killing the Ba’al priests. Remember to dress modestly when visiting this place to give respect to pilgrims who hold the prophet in high regard.

44. Mount Carmel

This area is where you’ll find the Carmelite Monastery of St. Elijah. It’s also where Elijah established an altar during his conflict with the Ba’al priests.

45. Haifa Cable Car

This is an easy and fun way to get to the Stella Maris Carmelite Monastery. Riding this transportation lets you enjoy the breathtaking panoramic vistas.

46. Baha’i Shrine and Gardens

The shrine serves as the landmark monument of Haifa. It contains the tomb of Mirza Al Mohammed, the founder of the Baha’i faith. Besides the shrine, you’ll see terraced gardens that show an outstanding example of garden landscaping.

47. University Museums

You’ll find several attractions that make sightseeing enjoyable. One museum is the Reuben and Edith Hecht Museum, which highlights Jewish history in the Holy Land pre-Diaspora. If you’re looking for great views, the Eshkol Tower offers excellent panoramic views across the city.

48. National Maritime Museum

The museum features a collection of charts, maps, and model ships that show the history of seafaring in the Mediterranean. People interested in maritime history will surely enjoy this visit.

49. Beit Shearim

This captivating archaeological site is famous for its impressive catacombs.

50. Ursula Malbin Sculpture Park

If you need to relax from all the sightseeing, this would be the perfect place. The public park has many beautiful bronze statues made by Ursula Malbin.

With so many tourist spots in Israel, you’ll never run out of things to do and attractions to enjoy. So, go ahead and book your next trip to enjoy the beauty that the country offers.

For a detailed information about traveling to Israel, read our page  A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Israel .

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Tourist Places in Israel

Quick navigation, places to visit in jerusalem, the israel museum.

Mount of Olives

Armenian Quarter

Muslim Quarter

Kidron Valley

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Western Wall

Masada National Park

Dome of the Rock

Temple Mount

Tower of David

Rockefeller Museum

Tomb of Absalom

Montefiore Windmill

Gethsemane Site

Al-Aqsa Museum

Mahane Yehuda Market

City of David

Best of Turkey

Siloam Tunnel

Hurva Synagogue

Places to Visit in Tel Aviv

Tel aviv museum of art.

Jaffa Clock Tower

Carmel Market

Ramat Gan Safari

Tel Aviv Port

St. Peter's Church

Habima Square

Yarkon Park

Places to Visit in Eilat

Timna valley.

Yotvata Hai-Bar Nature Reserve

Eilat's Coral Beach

Coral World Underwater Observatory

Botanical Garden of Eilat

Camel Ranch Eilat

Ammerm Columns

Dekel Beach

Tabernacle Museum

Best of Jerusalem

Aqaba Archaeological Museum

Musical Fountain Eilat

Mosh's Beach Eilat

Places to Visit in Haifa

Baha'i gardens.

Haifa Cable Car

Shrine of the Bab

Mount Carmel National Park

Israel National Museum of Science, Technology, and Space

Stella Maris Monastery

Louis Promenade

Cave of Elijah

Carmel Hai-Bar Nature Reserve

Hai Park Kiryat Motzkin

Places to Visit in Nazareth

Nazareth village.

The Basilica of the Annunciation

Zippori National Park

Centre International Marie de Nazareth

Tavor Mountain Reserve

Church of the Transfiguration

Best of Cairo

Places to Visit in Tiberias

Sea of galilee.

Arbel Nature Reserve

Hamat Tiberias

Kursi, Golan Heights

Tomb of Maimonides

Church of the Multiplication

Beit Gabriel on the Kinneret

Berko Archeological Park

Places to Visit in Acre

Shrine of bahá'u'lláh.

El-Jazzar Mosque

Ghetto Fighters' House

Old City of Akko (World Heritage)

Knights Halls Acre

Khan al-Umdan

Or Torah Synagogue

The Citadel

Places to Visit in Caesarea and Safed

Caesarea maritima.

Ralli Museum

Roman Aqueduct

Best of Jordan

Caesarea Beach

Abuhav Synagogue

Bar'am National Park

Other Places to Visit in Israel

Ra'anana park.

Mitzpe Ramon Observation Deck

Ein Gedi Reserve

Domus Galilaeae, Chorazin

Mount Carmel

Hula Valley

Rosh HaNikra Grottoes

Avshalom Cave

Judean Hills, Sculpture Road

Ancient Negev Wine Route

The Hermit House

Bell Ofri Farm

People also ask about israel, which are the best museums to visit in israel.

1. The Israel Museum: You will love visiting the Israel Museum at Jerusalem to take a look at the huge collection of art and artifacts segregated into prehistoric archaeology, Jewish art, and general fine arts. 2. Tel Aviv Museum of Art: Feel mesmerized looking at the beautiful display of modern and contemporary art as well as art by Old Masters in rotating exhibitions. Check ahead to catch a live concert or a film screening in the museum. 3. Palmach Museum: Learn about the role of Palmach, the combat forces of “Haganah” - the underground Jewish army, during the British Mandate in Palestine before Israel was established. 4. Fine Art & Doll Museum: The Fine Art & Doll Museum at Arad will delight both adults and children with its collection of dolls and art. 5. Yad Vashem: Mourn for the millions of genocide victims while visiting the yad Vashem - World Holocaust Remembrance Center. Get an insight into the experience of European Jews before, during, and after World War II.

Which are the best beaches to visit in Israel?

1. Tel Aviv Beach: Pick out your favorite from the ten popular beaches of Tel Aviv stretching over 10 km with each having a characteristic of its own. The beautiful beach is amazing to spend a relaxing day. 2. Caesarea Beach: Visit the unique Caesarea Beach with the ruins of the Roman Aqueduct marking its shoreline. This beach was named the best tourist spot in the Middle East in 2020 by Travel and Leisure. 3. Herzliya Beach: You must not miss visiting one of the best beaches of Israel, the Herzliya Beach which is located in the upscale neighborhood just north of Tel Aviv. 4. Jisr Al-Zarqa Beach: The untouched fisherman beach of Jisr Al-Zarqa in an off-beat location is a place you must include in your list of tourist places in Israel. Be prepared to be mesmerized by the beauty of the beach, especially at the beautiful spot of the stream estuary. 5. Coral Reef Beach: If you are on a vacation with family, you will enjoy visiting Coral Reef Beach at Eilat. This beach is a pleasant place for relaxing and enjoying the sun. Those looking for some adventure will sure love to go snorkeling amongst the corals.

What should I not miss in Israel?

1. Jerusalem: Visit the holiest city in the world which is the home to well-known places such as the Western wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and Al-Aqsa Mosque. 2. Tel Aviv: Visit the vibrant city Tel Aviv which has amazing beaches, events and nightlife. This city will give you a glimpse of the culture of Israel. 3. Dead Sea: Visit the lowest place on earth - the Dead Sea, known for its unique salty water. 4. Negev Desert: The beautiful landscape of Negev Desert is one of the must places to visit in Israel. Get immersed in the natural beauty of the place. 5. Galilee: Enjoy the lush green landscape of this place suitable for outdoor adventures.

Is Israel worth visiting?

What is the best time to visit israel, why is israel famous among tourist.

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6 replies to this topic

I know from many visitors, that the time after Passover is great for a visit in terms of weather and traveling.

Best wishes

Malka Pollak

Easter is totally irrelevant. The Christian community is tiny and Easter will have no impact at all on your trip.

Another vote for after Passover.

Yes, end of April will be warmer and also will be after the clocks change to summer time, so many sites have longer visiting hours and there will be lighter evenings, which makes a big difference.

My earlier response was non preferential. Realizing after Passover is after the clocks change makes me now say after Passover.

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PhD Candidate in Sociology, University College Dublin

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Samuel Scanlon does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

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On a warm evening in April 2023, I sat outside a café in the Christian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City and enjoyed a drink with friends. An exuberant American tourist sat at the table next to us and excitedly told us about his day.

Apparently, a chance encounter with the Patriarch of Jerusalem had led to him accessing the Church of the Holy Sepulchre for the Holy Fire Ceremony, Orthodox Christianity’s most significant event of the year.

This scene was being repeated by innumerable people in countless places throughout the city. The details change, but the significance of their authentic, spiritual experience carried through them all.

The significance of the “Holy Land” cannot be underestimated for the faithful. For more than 2,000 years it has been one of the world’s most significant pilgrimage sites. In modern times this has provided the foundation for a lucrative tourism industry worth a reported US$8.46 billion (£6.73 bn) for Israel and US$1 billion for Palestine in 2019.

But since October tourists have not been able to access the region at all. Most major airlines have suspended travel to Israel over concerns of safety, and governments around the world have advised their citizens against travelling there. Standard travel insurance packages also no longer include cover for people travelling to the region.

Beyond economic development, tourism plays a significant political role in the region. The Zionist movement, which led to the creation of Israel in 1948, recognised early that tourism was an excellent tool to foster global connections and encourage immigration to support the Zionist settlement of Palestine.

This has only increased and expanded over the decades. More recently, it manifests in an expansive industry of pro-Israel evangelical Christian tours and free birthright trips offered to young people of the Jewish diaspora.

For the first half of 2023, I lived in Jerusalem researching the political significance of tourism across the region. I interviewed people working in, advocating for, and being affected by tourism activities. It was a turbulent time as violence has escalated, yet pilgrims and tourists still flocked to the region as the global tourism industry continued to recover following the pandemic.

Having now watched Christmas, Ramadan, Passover and Easter pass, I find myself reflecting on how much has changed in just one year. After seven months of intense violence in the region, the destruction of Gaza, the very visible and ongoing suffering of Palestinians, and an International Court of Justice ruling that Israel’s actions in Gaza could amount to genocide, it cannot possibly return to business as usual.

Grinding to a halt

Tour companies in Palestine and Israel are used to waxing and waning violence resulting in uncertain income due to cancelled trips. They normally operate with a reserve of capital to ensure that they can survive these tough months.

But several of my interviewees revealed that these reserves have been completely depleted throughout the pandemic. Many companies are now in a very precarious position without their safety net as the industry grinds to a halt.

Some have reacted quickly, offering tours to diplomats and journalists – the only international visitors remaining in the region. But this can do little to staunch the bleeding industry and many, if not most, of these companies will no longer exist when tourism is finally able to return to the region.

Israel’s most steadfast allies are also beginning to waver in their support for the assault on Gaza. Mass student protests across infamously pro-Israel American universities, calls for boycott, divestment and sanctions, and an uncensorable social media advocacy and solidarity movement , make the future outlook for Israel’s tourism industry bleak, both as a generator of revenue and a Zionist political tool.

There will eventually exist a tourist audience in the future. But the receptiveness of this audience to a Zionist narrative is questionable.

International supporters of Israel are becoming aware of the violent settler-colonial aspect of Zionism . Many are being swayed to support Palestine along with vast swaths of the global population who had never spared a thought for Israel or Palestine before October. And the average tourist or pilgrim is now aware of the propagandist language and framing of narrative that previously they would have accepted at face value and never questioned.

The global surge of support for Palestinians may transition to these people wishing to visit and meet them to show solidarity and witness the suffering and oppression with their own eyes. Israel has effectively destroyed one of its historically most effective tools in the continuation of its settler project by destroying Gaza for the world to see.

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UFO-inspired tourist attraction destroyed in fire

BOWMAN, S.C. ( WIS /Gray News) - An out-of-this-world tourist attraction in South Carolina was destroyed Thursday morning.

The UFO Welcome Center caught fire and burned to the ground, according to The Times and Democrat . Firefighters from several fire departments responded to the scene and were seen putting out hot spots at around 9 a.m.

The UFO Welcome Center was built by Jody Pendarvis, a resident of Bowman and is based on the classic silver “flying saucer” designs from the 1950s. Constructed from about eight tons of plywood and boards, the structure was two stories, 16 feet tall and 39 feet in diameter, according to T&D.

It quickly became a tourist curiosity, appearing on the Comedy Central Daily Show several times as well as the Roseanne Barr talk show.

Copyright 2024 WIS via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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After weeks of pro-Palestinian protests on campuses, colleges regroup ahead of commencement ceremonies

After weeks of pro-Palestinian protests on campuses nationwide have led to more than 2,300 arrests, many universities are now regrouping in preparation for their upcoming commencement ceremonies, with some taking place as early as this weekend.

The University of Michigan, Northeastern , Arizona State and Ohio State are among the schools where protests have occurred and are slated to have graduation ceremonies this weekend. School administrations are issuing warnings that anyone planning on disrupting the ceremonies will be removed from campus, as students at dozens of institutions continue to protest in support of Palestinian human rights.

“Please show respect for everyone who has come to share in the experience,” Arizona State University said on its website. “Individuals who engage in inappropriate or disruptive behavior may be removed from the event.”

Students waved Palestinian flags during Saturday’s commencement at the University of Michigan. Banners in the sky displayed messages such as "DIVEST FROM ISRAEL NOW! FREE PALESTINE!" and "WE STAND WITH ISRAEL JEWISH LIVES MATTER."

In a statement issued following commencement, University of Michigan assistant vice president for public affairs Colleen Mastony said approximately 75 protesters staged a demonstration at the beginning of the program by walking up to the main aisle and chanting. They were escorted by public safety personnel to the rear of the stadium, where they stayed until commencement ended.

"There were no arrests," Mastony said. "Peaceful protests like this have taken place at U-M commencement ceremonies for decades. The university supports free speech and expression, and university leaders are pleased that today’s commencement was such a proud and triumphant moment, worthy of the achievements of our extraordinary graduates."

Administrations are also hiring extra security and screening attendees at venues, The Associated Press reported .

Columbia University, where police cleared a weekslong encampment and the campus' Hamilton Hall, is rethinking its commencement ceremony planned for May 15, according to a source at the university. After a meeting with top university leaders Friday, two members of student government said administrators indicated they are not sure they can hold a commencement ceremony on the main Morningside Heights campus in Manhattan because of security concerns.

The source at the university said the main commencement ceremony was slated to be canceled, but smaller events were still being planned. As of Saturday, it is unclear if final decisions have been made.

Protests continue to linger on campuses across the country, with ongoing activities at New York University and the New School in New York.

The University of Virginia's department of safety and security on Satur d ay d eclared a protest on campus and "unlawful assembly" and asked the community to avoid the area. Local police and other law enforcement departments were on campus, where an encampment was set up.

In a statement, the university said protesters refused to disperse, leading to 25 people being detained and accused of trespassing. It was unclear how many of them are affiliated with UVA, the school said, adding, "The scene was declared stable around 4 p.m."

At Princeton University , a group of students have initiated a food strike as part of their protest in support of the Palestinian cause. Leaders of the campaign, Princeton Israeli Apartheid Divest, did not specify how many students are taking part in it.

"Participants will abstain from all food and drink (except water) until our demands are met," the group said in an Instagram post . "We commit our bodies to their liberation of Palestine. PRINCETON, hear us now! We will not be moved!"

At the University of Mississippi , a group of pro-Palestinian protesters was surrounded by a larger and rowdier group of counterprotesters Thursday. Police had to escort the protesters in the pro-Palestinian group into a building for their safety. Videos of the protest posted on social media show the larger crowd, which appeared to contain about 200 mostly white young people, surrounding and shouting down the multiracial group of between 30 and 60 pro-Palestinian protesters.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrations are now gaining traction across the world , from London, Paris and Rome to Sydney, Tokyo, Beirut and beyond.

The protests around the globe were launched in response to  Israel’s monthslong military assault on the Gaza Strip , but students told NBC News they were also inspired   by the dramatic scenes from colleges in the U.S. in recent weeks.

Pro-Palestinian protests have sprouted up at Sciences Po in France, the University of Leeds in England and the University of Sydney in Australia.

Breaking news reporter

Politics latest: MP defection 'cheap party political point-scoring'; UK and allies 'at a crossroads', Cameron argues

The fallout is continuing from the shock defection of MP Natalie Elphicke from the Conservatives over to Labour. She has now released a statement apologising for supporting her ex-husband, who was her predecessor as MP for Dover, after his sexual assault conviction.

Thursday 9 May 2024 23:03, UK

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• New Labour MP issues apology
• Cameron says defection 'says more about Starmer'
• Analysis: Public will see through 'cheap party political point-scoring' party switch
• Rob Powell: Elphicke apology unlikely to change minds
• Minister insists party 'not trying to chase Reform'
• Ex-chancellor to stand down at election  | Every MP who's quitting
• Live reporting by Ben Bloch and (earlier)  Faith Ridler

Thank you for joining us for another busy day in politics.

Here's what happened:

• Lord Cameron delivered two speeches today in which he called for NATO to make 2.5% of GDP the default defence spending target;
• Prime Minister Rishi Sunak summoned university bosses to Downing Street where he urged them to tackle antisemitism on campuses that has risen by over 200%;
• Labour's new MP Natalie Elphicke apologised for supporting her ex-husband after his sex assault conviction, which has created huge controversy in the Labour Party;
• Former chancellor and vaccines minister, Nadhim Zahawi, announced he will stand down at the next election;
• Newly re-election Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen hit out at the "chaos" in the Tory party and said responsibility "ultimately lies with Rishi (Sunak)";
• The government triggered emergency plans to be able to hold prisoners in police cells due to a shortage of places in the system - and is blaming it on barristers taking industrial action;
• Interest rates were held at 5.25% in a blow to the PM who wants them to come down ahead of the general election.

Join us again from 6am for the very latest political news.

By  Faye Brown , political reporter

Labour will create a new Border Security Command to tackle people-smuggling gangs bringing migrants across the Channel, Sir Keir Starmer is set to announce.

The "elite" unit, to be part-funded by scrapping the Tories' Rwanda deportation scheme, will be led by a former police, military or intelligence chief and be granted new powers under the Counter Terrorism Act.

These powers will allow officers to conduct stop and searches at the border, carry out financial investigations and issue search and seizure warrants targeting organised immigration crime.

Sir Keir will outline the measures in a speech on the Kent coast on Friday, when he will vow to "replace gimmicks with graft" and draw on his experience as the former head of the Crown Prosecution Service.

Read extracts from Sir Keir's speech below:

The Sky News live poll tracker - collated and updated by our Data and Forensics team - aggregates various surveys to indicate how voters feel about the different political parties.

With the local elections complete, Labour is still sitting comfortably ahead, with the Tories trailing behind.

See the latest update below - and you can read more about the methodology behind the tracker  here .

Lord Cameron has just delivered his second speech of the day - this time at the Lord Mayor's banquet in central London.

Here are the key points of what he said (this post was updated live):

• The foreign secretary opens by saying: "I thought my days of dressing up in white tie and speaking in halls like this were well and truly over, so I want to thank PM Rishi Sunak for bringing me out of retirement";
• He says his six month as the UK's top diplomat "have been every bit a whirlwind as much as being prime minister" - but "not quite as exciting";
• Lord Cameron argues that foreign policy cannot be divorced from economic performance;
• He says movements to "pull up the drawbridge" and retreat into isolationism are "profoundly wrong" - but they cannot be ignored;
• The current dangerous world is "in stark contrast to my first years in politics", he says, and argues we must "face up to that situation";
• "My conviction is that we, with our partners, can choose to make a difference - we have agency. The question is whether we have the courage to use it, the courage to act";
• He says the government is "hardening" defences against attacks on our infrastructure - both physical and cyber following recent attacks;
• The foreign secretary reiterates his call for spending 2.5% of GDP on defence to be the standard NATO benchmark;
• He calls on the allies to join the UK in committing funding to Ukraine until 2030;
• On the Israel-Hamas war, Lord Cameron says he wants the fighting to end now and for the hostages released, but says: "Simply calling for an immediate ceasefire does not make it more likely", arguing that practical steps need to be taken;
• He concludes by saying: "We are at a crossroads: if we make the right choices, if we act now, a bright future awaits, but if we hesitate, our adversaries will write our futures for us";

The foreign secretary is giving his second speech of the day.

Lord Cameron will be donning his white tie at Mansion House for a slightly shorter version of the speech he gave this morning on the UK's foreign policy and national security.

Follow live coverage here in the Politics Hub.

The government has triggered emergency plans to be able to hold prisoners in police cells due to a shortage of places in the system - and is blaming it on barristers taking industrial action.

Operation Safeguard triggers the availability of cells in police stations for prisoners sentenced by the courts when there is a critical shortage of normal spaces.

Sky News understands the Ministry of Justice has formally requested that a limited number of cells be made available.

The government insists that this is "not an unprecedented measure" and has been deployed over four periods since 2006 - and most recently in February and April this year.

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said the emergency measure "is helping us respond to acute capacity pressures caused in part by barristers' industrial action and the aftermath of the pandemic, while we press ahead with delivering the biggest expansion of prison places in a century including six new jails".

On this episode, Niall Paterson speaks to one of the doctors who worked to restore the hearing of an 18-month-old girl – who was born deaf.

Medics at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge have used gene therapy to help a rare condition, auditory neuropathy. It's caused by the disruption of nerve impulses travelling from the inner ear to the brain.

Opal Sandy can now respond to her parents' voices and can communicate words such as "Dada" and "bye-bye".

Plus, Natalie Elphicke, the MP who defected from the Conservatives to Labour yesterday, apologises for comments she made after her ex-husband, and predecessor as MP for Dover, was convicted of sexual assault in 2020.

She said at the time that being "attractive" and "attracted to women" had made him an "easy target".

Niall talks to deputy political editor Sam Coates about the disquiet within Labour over Mrs Elphicke’s arrival.

👉  Listen above then tap here to follow the Sky News Daily wherever you get your podcasts  👈

In a short while, the foreign secretary is due to give his second speech of the day.

We will have live coverage here on the Politics Hub, so do follow along.

Above: The last time David Cameron addressed a Mansion House audience, just weeks before the Brexit vote and his resignation.

By Jennifer Scott , political reporter

In a dramatic move just moments before Prime Minister's Questions got under way this week, Natalie Elphicke joined Labour as her surprised Conservative colleagues looked on.

What exactly happens when an MP defects to another party?

Ms Elphicke  is far from the first MP to change sides between elections, but it was incredibly rare - until recently - for a member of the governing party to switch to the opposition.

She is the third Tory to do so in just over two years, following  Christian Wakeford in 2022  over the partygate scandal and  Dan Poulter just two weeks ago  over the Tories' handling of the NHS.

Before that, it hadn't happened since 1995, when Alan Howarth became the first ever Conservative to cross to Labour on the eve of his party conference, citing the "divisiveness" of policies under John Major's leadership.

Only three MPs in the past 25 years have gone the other way - from main opposition to government - all leaving the Conservatives to join Labour.

Defecting to smaller parties happens more often, such as moves  from both Conservative and Labour to Change UK  during the Brexit years, or  Douglas Carswell  and  Mark Reckless  heading over to UKIP ahead of the referendum.

By Jenness Mitchell, Scotland reporter

John Swinney has axed the post of minister for independence from his ministerial team.

The role, the first of its kind, was created last year by then first minister Humza Yousaf.

Jamie Hepburn, who previously held the Scottish government post, has now taken over from George Adam as minister for parliamentary business.

Earlier on Thursday, SNP MP Alyn Smith appeared to confirm during a radio interview that the role had been "subsumed" into Angus Robertson's constitution, external affairs and culture brief.

Mr Swinney was  legally sworn in as Scotland's seventh first minister   at the Court of Session in Edinburgh on Wednesday morning.

Read more on the new Scottish cabinet here:

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Columbia faculty, students continue protests; police order dispersal of gathering at UCLA: Updates

Editor's Note: This page is a summary of news on campus protests for Wednesday, May 1. For the latest news, view our live updates file for Thursday, May 2.

NEW YORK − Hundreds of faculty and graduate student workers rallied on a sunny Wednesday afternoon outside Columbia University’s only open entrance, protesting the university’s decision hours earlier to send police on campus and arrest more than 100 pro-Palestinian demonstrators.

Protesters held signs, including “no cops on campus,” as police entered and exited the campus gates just feet away. Others held signs calling for university President Minouche Shafik to resign. Faculty members said access was heavily restricted, as campus was closed for a second day in the period before finals, open only to students living on campus and essential workers.

The NYPD announced almost 300 arrests had taken place Tuesday at Columbia and City College − hours before Los Angeles police in riot gear swept onto UCLA's campus to break up a violent melee between dueling protesters as opposition to Israel's war in Gaza continued to roll through universities across the nation.

Dozens of the New York arrests involved demonstrators removed from an administration building at Columbia, where officers also took down encampments that had been the epicenter of the protests nationwide.

"Students and outside activists breaking Hamilton Hall doors, mistreating our Public Safety officers and maintenance staff, and damaging property are acts of destruction, not political speech," Shafik said in a statement Wednesday. She added that many students felt unwelcome on campus because of the disruption and antisemitic comments made by some protesters.

At City College, affiliated with City University of New York, officials requested NYPD assistance after the college said students and "un-affiliated external individuals" refused to leave. The school issued a statement saying students have a right to demonstrate peacefully but that police were called in because of "specific and repeated acts of violence and vandalism, not in response to peaceful protest."

About 1,200 people in southern Israel were killed and more than 200 taken hostage in the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7. The Israeli retaliatory assault has killed nearly 35,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, and obliterated much of the enclave's infrastructure. The humanitarian crisis has fueled outrage on some U.S. campuses and spurred demands for an end to investment in Israeli companies and amnesty for student protesters.

Developments:

∎ New Hampshire State Police said personnel were at the University of New Hampshire and Dartmouth College on Wednesday night "in response to illegal activity and at the request of local law enforcement." At the University of New Hampshire, police arrested 10 to 20 pro-Palestinian protesters who started setting up an encampment after a rally. Officers at Dartmouth College cleared out the final tents at the campus encampment shortly before 11:40 p.m., its student newspaper reported .

∎ Several hundred protesters gathered Wednesday for a peaceful demonstration on Ohio State University. School officials had locked up some buildings in anticipation of the demonstration. Unlike last week's protest, which led to almost 40 arrests, the crowd began dispersing around 9 p.m. and the demonstration ended before 10 p.m.

∎ Columbia Provost Angela Olinto said all academic activities at the school's main campus for the rest of the semester, including final exams, will be held remotely, with some minor exceptions.

∎ Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said he supports the strong law enforcement response unleashed on protesters at the University of Georgia and Emory University in Atlanta. “Send a message,'' he said. "We are not going to allow Georgia to become the next Columbia University.”

∎ Protesters and police clashed at the University of Wisconsin in Madison when officers broke up an encampment there Wednesday. Video from the scene showed some protesters being pinned to the ground.

∎ Tulane University said at least 14 protesters were arrested from the "illegal encampment" the school said was dominated by protesters "unaffiliated with our community."

Police order dispersal of large pro-Palestinian gathering at UCLA

Police ordered a large group of Pro-Palestinian demonstrators to leave or face arrest late Wednesday, a night after violence erupted at the encampment by counter-protestors.

Video posted on social media showed counterdemonstrators battering a makeshift barricade around pro-Palestinian protesters at the Los Angeles campus. The Los Angeles Police Department said it responded to UCLA's request to restore order "due to multiple acts of violence within the large encampment" on the campus.

The Los Angeles Times reported police did not intervene for more than an hour after arriving as counterdemonstrators wearing black outfits and white masks − some armed with metal pipes and sticks − repeatedly tried to breach the perimeter of the encampment while campers pushed back and several fights broke out.

Los Angeles police said in a statement Wednesday that officers made no arrests and did not use force in its response to the UCLA campus Tuesday night. The department also noted that no officers were injured.

UCLA canceled Wednesday classes and Chancellor Gene Block, who blamed the violence on a "group of instigators'' who attacked the encampment, said the student conduct process has been initiated and could lead to disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.

The Times also reported University of California President Michael Drake told the Board of Regents that 15 people were injured in the overnight fracas, and he's ordering an independent review of the events, including how UCLA handled them.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom condemned the violence, saying in a statement , "The right to free speech does not extend to inciting violence, vandalism, or lawlessness on campus. Those who engage in illegal behavior must be held accountable for their actions − including through criminal prosecution, suspension, or expulsion.''

The Jewish Federation Los Angeles issued a statement saying it was "appalled" at the violence, which did not "represent the Jewish community or our values." But the statement also said the UCLA administration was at fault for allowing an environment that made students feel unsafe.

UCLA students barricade themselves in courtyard in tense protest

Hundreds of students at UCLA barricaded themselves in a courtyard between two campus buildings Wednesday, using sheets of plywood, planks, ropes, and tents to block the doors leading from the buildings into the outside area.

The mood was anxious. Sporadic announcements over a loudspeaker informed students they were part of an illegal settlement and would face consequences if they remained. In response, the crowd chanted: “We’re not leaving, we’re not leaving.”

“I’m terrified, obviously, I think everybody is,” said 21-year-old student Aidan Doyle. “But we’re going to stay as long as we possibly can, until we’re being physically removed.”

Thousands of students were spread out in the areas directly outside the main protest. Organizers shouted over loud speakers that they didn’t need any more supplies as piles of protective equipment, pizza and Gatorade grew at the main entrance to the camp.

On Tuesday night, the camp was attacked by a group of violent counter-protesters, who fired chemical agents and fireworks into the protestors and assaulted dozens of people.

– Will Carless

Columbia faculty members protest decision to bring in police

Some of faculty and graduate student workers rallying outside Columbia's gates wore orange safety vests that said “faculty,” which they donned days earlier to help protect students in the encampment. 

“There is not a single university left in Gaza, and I bet a lot of you feel there is not a university here in Morningside Heights,” Joseph Hawley, an associate professor of classics, told gatherers, referring to the neighborhood around the school. “But I’m here to tell you the university is here on this sidewalk.”

Barricades still lined city streets outside Columbia’s campus as police officers stood watch. Shafik has asked the New York Police Department to remain on campus until May 17, two days after graduation.

Mana Kia, an associate professor, read a draft statement from the Columbia chapter of the American Association of University Professors saying members "unequivocally condemn President Shafik, the Columbia board of trustees and other senior administrators involved in the decision to call in the NYPD and clear the encampment of student protesters." The statement said the association has "no confidence in the administration."

Organizer says 'ordinary people,' not agitators behind protests

Less than three hours before a huge deployment of New York City police officers broke up an encampment and retook a building at Columbia on Tuesday night, Mayor Eric Adams made a forceful case that the pro-Palestinian protest at the school had been hijacked by "outside agitators'' bent on sowing chaos.

Those involved in pushing for the movement off-campus disagree, saying it belongs to regular folks trying to raise awareness to the Palestinians' plight.

Manolo De Los Santos, an organizer with The People’s Forum, said those joining the protests alongside students are just “ordinary New Yorkers.”“The power of this moment is that it’s everyone coming together,” he said. “It’s health care workers, it’s teachers, it’s city workers. It’s ordinary people who feel so strongly.”   

‘Never felt this much tension on campus,' UNH student says

Police arrested pro-Palestinian protesters who started setting up an encampment in front of the University of New Hampshire's Thompson Hall Wednesday night.

UNH Police Chief Paul Dean estimated between 10 to 20 protesters were arrested after a rally led to demonstrators attempting to set up an encampment at the state’s flagship university, drawing local and New Hampshire State Police. Some demonstrators shouted at officers, calling them "cowards" and chanting "free Palestine."

The peaceful rally lasted until around 6:30 p.m. Then, Dean said protesters rushed in to form an encampment and attempted to barricade their tents. Leftover tents and items on Thompson Hall's lawn were removed by police around 9 p.m., loaded onto a truck as dozens of students watched. 

Shane Tilton, a sophomore who lives in a nearby residence hall, said he walked over to observe after hearing the commotion. He watched from beneath the Thompson Hall arches as the encampment was removed from the most well-known gathering spot on campus.

“I’ve never felt this much tension on campus,” Tilton said. “I feel like there’s a lot of tension. From my perspective, it seems like the cops don’t have much to do here. They seemed like they were here to jump at this opportunity and see some action.”

The American Civil Liberties Union of New Hampshire condemned police’s actions Wednesday night in Durham and at a similar protest at Dartmouth College in Hanover.

“Freedom of speech and the right to demonstrate are foundational principles of democracy and core constitutional rights," said Devon Chaffee, executive director of the state ACLU. "We urge university and government leaders to create environments that safeguard constitutionally protected speech."

– Ian Lenahan and Deb Cram, Portsmouth Herald

'Intifada' chants by some protesters are 'horribly upsetting'

Dozens of protesters gathered Wednesday in and around Fordham University’s Leon Lowenstein Center in Manhattan and established an encampment. The group is demanding the university divest from all companies “complicit in the Israeli occupation and ongoing siege,” according to a statement from the Fordham for Palestine Coalition.

As the demonstration grew throughout the afternoon, it also attracted a handful of onlookers and opponents who occasionally shouted pro-Israel remarks as they passed. Asa Kittay and Carly Connors said they were in class down the street when they heard demonstrators chanting “Intifada,” an Arabic word for uprising or rebellion. Kittay, who held up a tablet with an image of the Israeli flag, said it was “horribly upsetting.”“I believe that these two states can co-exist peacefully,” Connors said. “I do not believe in an intifada. That is not very anti-genocide.” John Lefkowitz, who attended the protest with friends who go to Fordham, said he believes the demonstrations are sometimes incorrectly characterized as antisemitic by people who are uninformed about the position of anti-Zionism.“It’s often told that Jews should feel unsafe in pro-Palestine circles. As a Jew, I’ve never felt unsafe in a pro-Palestinian circle,” he said. “These people are great, they’re not anti-semites.”

Back to the future: Columbia a focal point again in protest history

The descent of police on Hamilton Hall at Columbia University outfitted in full riot gear and enforcing mass arrests Tuesday night fell on the same date and place police cracked down on antiwar protesters in 1968. Some fear the clash heralds a similar outcome at the upcoming Democratic National Convention in Chicago, where political leaders are emboldened to sic the cops on demonstrators ever more intent on showing up.“I don’t think it’ll keep anyone from Chicago, it might even inspire more people to come,” said Hatem Abudayyeh, a spokesperson for the Coalition to March on the DNC and the national chair of the U.S. Palestinian Community Network.Democrats already feared a repeat of the chaos from 56 years ago where police and demonstrators clashed, drawing all eyes away from the convention.At the crackdown at Columbia April 30, 1968, police arrested over 700 people and over 100 injuries were reported, according to a Columbia University Libraries publication. Police arrested almost 300 people Tuesday between Columbia and City College, according to the city’s top cop.

– Michael Loria

Arraignments from first arrests at New York universities begin

Late Wednesday night, the first arrests from the protests at Columbia University and the City College of New York began to be arraigned at the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse, the same building where former President Donald Trump’s hush money trial is underway.

Outside the court’s arraignment part, dozens of the protesters’ supporters gathered in the halls, many of them wearing keffiyehs. The mood was jubilant, and many were chatting or conferring with each other in small groups.

When one protester exited the courtroom after his arraignment, he was quickly swarmed by friends and dropped to the floor in a brief moment of celebration.

That protester, who was at the City College demonstrations, had been charged with assaulting a police officer, a felony, and resisting arrest. However, the prosecutor handling his case recommended to the judge that he be released from jail, given that police “continue to investigate” the incident.

Arrests across U.S.: Campus protests across the US result in arrests by the hundreds. But will the charges stick?

– Asher Stockler, The Journal News

NYU encampment stays in place after others in city were torn down

The day after other city schools saw violent clashes with police, the encampment at NYU's lower Manhattan campus stood untouched. Punctuated by faded chalk reading "End Jewish and Palestinian hate," the collection of tents and chairs took up about one city block near 181 Mercer Street, where the university's Paulson Center is located. 

Fenced-off and guarded by a smattering of campus security, the encampment was bracing for hot weather with some protesters carrying umbrellas to block out the sun and one arriving with large bags of ice. Demonstrators needed to present a school ID to enter the encampment. The barricades held signs reading, "Fund our education, not the occupation" and listing the protesters' demands, which include divestment and closing NYU's Tel Aviv campus.

The shadow of Tuesday's mass arrests and the forced removal of encampments on the other end of the island at Columbia and City College of New York was evident. Just outside the barricades, a group of demonstrators huddled to practice safety tactics.

− Anna Kaufman  

New York students continue protests day after mass arrests

Hundreds of demonstrators at Columbia University and City College of New York gathered Wednesday evening a day after administrators from both universities called police in riot gear on the protesters.

“Our encampment is what it could look like to be liberated,” Hadeeqa Arzoo, a City College student, said, as several cars honked in support while she led chants of “Free Palestine.” “So I will continue to cultivate these spaces of liberation within the belly of the beast. That is resistance.”

Even if both schools no longer had encampments, demonstrators promised to continue their activism in support of Palestinians and in opposition to schools’ investments in Israel.

“There is not a single student-led uprising in history met with severe state-sanctioned violence that did not end up being right,” Maryam Alwan, a Columbia student organizer, said. She likened their cause — and police's response — to the civil rights movement and Black Lives Matter protests, including allegations of outside agitators and property damage.

As the sun fell outside City College’s campus in West Harlem, several dozen police officers surrounded the protesters standing inside barricades. The rally, which included two Islamic prayers, would continue into the night before students returned to Columbia, some walking down the valley and back up the hill to the other campus.

– Eduardo Cuevas

UT-Dallas confirms 17 arrests hours after encampment set up

The University of Texas at Dallas confirmed law enforcement officers arrested over a dozen people hours after pro-Palestinian student demonstrators constructed an encampment Wednesday.

UT-Dallas spokesperson Brittany Magelssen told USA TODAY that 17 people were arrested on criminal trespassing charges as of 5 p.m. local time Wednesday after university officials gave written notice to remove the tents. Magelssen said UT-Dallas requested outside law enforcement officers to assist. 

“Individuals may peacefully assemble in the common outdoor areas of campus to exercise their right to free speech, but they may not construct an encampment or block pathways. In the last six months, there have been several peaceful protests on the UT Dallas campus,” Magelssen said. "The UT Dallas Police Department and area law enforcement partners are continuing to monitor the situation."

The UT-Dallas chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine said in a social media post students began setting up the "Gaza Liberation Plaza" encampment at 4:30 a.m. Wednesday.

“We reject our university’s complicity in profiting off the genocide. We will continue to escalate and put pressure on our university until UTD/UTIMCO divest from war profiteers and Palestine is free,” the student organization said early Wednesday.

High school students joining the protest movement

The proliferation of antiwar protests in college campuses across the U.S. is filtering down to the younger academic levels , and some of the grown-ups are not happy about it.

A sit-in planned for Wednesday at a Chicago prep school is the latest among high school demonstrations showing support for embattled Palestinians in Gaza. On Monday, about 100 high school students in Austin, Texas,  walked out of their classes in protest . Last week, students in western Washington state similarly expressed their objection to the U.S. backing Israel's military efforts in Gaza.

"I'm protesting against a government that is actively hurting people just because of where they were born and what language they speak," Pia Ibsen, a senior at McCallum High School in Austin, told USA TODAY. Ibsen helped organize a walkout and left class for about an hour and a half.

Some school and government officials have tried to stop the protests, arguing they create a hostile environment for Jewish students. That was the case last week when two county commissioners in New Jersey demanded a school district's superintendent cancel a pro-Palestinian walkout at East Regional High in Voorhees Township. The protest was replaced by a rally for human rights.

− Cybele Mayes-Osterman and Kayla Jimenez

UAW members hope presence at protest will 'move the needle'

In addition to the campus protests, hundreds of people bearing pro-Palestinian signs and t-shirts gathered at New York City’s Foley Square on Wednesday afternoon for a march and rally led by labor organizers on International Worker’s Day.

Participants included Brian Sullivan, 45, a member of the United Auto Workers whose local chapter represents social workers. Sullivan said seeing labor organizers come out in such large numbers could help “really move the needle.”

“UAW endorsed Joe Biden and hopefully he feels some exposure here, that if he doesn’t do what’s right and what the UAW members are asking for, he risks that endorsement,” Sullivan said.

Jeremy Montano, another UAW member who works in the legal field, said the recent “explosion of interest” in the conflict in Gaza, particularly on college campuses, has also given him some hope. “Obviously it’s balanced out with a lot of despair about what’s actually happening in Gaza,” said Montano, 37. “But there’s been a little bit of a source of hope that maybe longer term things might change.”

Almost 300 protesters arrested in NYC; student group says some were injured

New York City police made 119 arrests at Columbia University and 173 at City College in Tuesday night's crackdowns on protesters, Commissioner Edward Caban said Wednesday. Charges range from trespassing to criminal mischief to burglary, and the breakdown of students to non-students facing charges was not yet available, he said.

Police said there were no injuries, although CUNY for Palestine issued a statement saying one student suffered a broken ankle, two had teeth broken and others received burns from pepper spray used by police during the clash.

Mayor Eric Adams said drones and encryption radios used at Columbia provided police with the element of surprise when they retook Hamilton Hall, adding that "professionals at radicalizing" had influenced the student protesters and co-opted the protest but without providing details.

Officers climbed into Hamilton Hall, which protesters had occupied earlier Tuesday, through a second-story window. Within three hours Tuesday night, they had retaken the building, NYPD said.

"It was about external actors hijacking a peaceful protest and influencing students to escalate," Adams said. "We cannot allow what should be a lawful protest turn into a violent spectacle that serves no purpose."

Fordham, another NYC university, establishes encampment

Outside Fordham University’s Leon Lowenstein Center building on Wednesday, another encampment sprung up. Students, faculty and community members surrounded by law enforcement officers and newly erected barricades chanted “Free, free Palestine” and “Disclose, divest, we will not stop, we will not rest.” Inside, demonstrators including current and former students milled around their tents, played drums, banged on windows and held up signs reading “Free Palestine” and “Divest genocide funds” for passersby to see.

Julie Norris, a 27-year-old Fordham alumni, said she arrived before 8 a.m. Wednesday to help establish the encampment. Norris, who spoke to USA TODAY on the phone from inside the Lowenstein Center, estimated about 30 people were inside with her and said they plan to stay until their demands are met.

“The students can’t be stopped,” she said. “We saw intense repression against students on other campuses yesterday, and this morning students are ready to stand back up. There’s going to be no business as usual until Palestine is free.”

Northwestern, Brown reach deal: Make pact with student demonstrators to curb protests

Some campus protesters cut deals, claim victory

Some student activists who pitched tents and camped on university lawns to protest Israel's military attacks in Gaza have begun to declare victory after hammering out agreements with school administrators.  Northwestern University  just outside Chicago became the first U.S. school to publicly announce a deal on Monday. On Tuesday, Brown University protesters broke camp after President Christina Paxson said the Rhode Island school will bring divestment demands to a vote. Organizers hope the deals set a new precedent for protest encampments around the U.S. and show a way to find common ground without using force.

“What these students have done is truly, truly historical,” Summer Pappachen, a graduate student and organizer of the Northwestern encampment, told USA TODAY on Tuesday amid cleanup of the lawn students held for days. “We have been able to achieve (our goals) while keeping students safe.”

− Michael Loria

Columbia building cleared: Police storm into building held by pro-Palestinian protesters

What are college protests across the US about?

The  student protesters  opposed to Israel's military attacks in Gaza say  they want their schools to stop funneling endowment money  to Israeli companies and other businesses, like weapons manufacturers, that profit from the war in Gaza. In addition to divestment, protesters are calling for a cease-fire, and student governments at some colleges have also passed resolutions in recent weeks calling for an end to academic partnerships with Israel. The protesters also want the U.S. to stop supplying funding and weapons to the war effort.

More recently, amnesty for students and professors involved in the protests has become an issue. Protesters want protections amid threats of disciplinary action and termination for those participating in demonstrations that violate campus policy or local laws.

− Claire Thornton

Contributing: Reuters