popular tourist sites in israel

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » Middle East » Israel » Places to Visit

16 Best Places to Visit in Israel (ATTRACTION GUIDE • 2024)

Let’s be upfront: perhaps no country on earth divides public opinion quite like Israel does.

It’s not a big country, but there are a lot of beautiful things to see in Israel. It’s an old land, older than even the biblical texts would have us believe. There are also ancient sites around Israel that perhaps carry more weight than we can ever comprehend.

That’s what the last couple of months here have felt like; an attempt to comprehend the incomprehensible. There are a lot of beautiful places in Israel filled with majesty, and there is also a lot that hurts the heart. It’s impossible to travel Israel without being confronted by these and it’s taken me nearly two months of learning about the country and experiencing that spectrum to come to a conclusion…

That there is much beauty in Israel.

That’s why I’ve written this guide to Israel’s top places to visit: my top places to visit. It covers a bit of everything from Israel’s religious places and historical sites, to its stunning natural landscapes, to its mind-bending otherworld. This list, I feel, gives Israel – and Palestine – a fair coverage.

I understand that discussing Israel is a political minefield and that you’re sticking your toes in with the sharks and I respect that. But I also respect honesty and integrity and I’m gonna do my best to keep my digits intact! So without further digression, let’s have a look at my choice of the best places to visit in Israel – the must-see sights and sites of the Holy Land!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Looking for a dope spot? This is the best area in Israel for traveller vibes!

The best places to visit in israel: highlights of the holy land, faq on the best places to visit in israel, summing up the best places to visit in israel.

• Buy Us a Coffee!

Mitzpe Ramon

The gorgeous landscapes of southern Israel, hiking galore, and one helluva hippy hotspot makes this one of the best places to visit in Israel for backpackers!

• Sunset from the cliff over Makhtesh Ramon (Ramon Crater) is yum.
• Check out the many, many hiking trails.
• Forget the hostel – camp out under the stars!

Ready to embark on a little pilgrimage? That’s great, but before you do, be sure to check out where to stay in Israel and book yourself an epic stay in accommodation worthy of your choosing. Then, continue on down to things to see and things to do in Israel from the river to the sea. Starting with the classic choice…

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

#1 – Tel Aviv – Expected top of the places to visit in Israel list.

• Sexy architecture and art.
• Believe it or not, it can be cheap.
• Extremely secular.

Listen, I’m not in love with Tel Aviv. I did, however, find a 6 shekel falafel, a bouldering gym, stellar Airbnb’s to stay in and dope exercise parks… oh, and the dumpster diving is on-point too ! One way or another, ‘The White City’ has Israel’s main international airport and everybody visits Tel Aviv regardless; it’s the best place to go in Israel (or more appropriately, the only place) that offers this vibe.

• Why it’s awesome: The vibe I’m referring to is that modern, “liberal”, hipster-chic, “Why everything gotta cost money!” feels. I kinda thought it felt like San Francisco but then a guy from San Fran said it felt more like a European millennial-bourgey city. I can’t comment there so I’m just gonna say it’s comparable to Melbourne except the people aren’t quite as friendly. But people love all those places? Exactly! What Tel Aviv offers, it brings in spades.
• What to do there: Tel Aviv is the best place to visit in Israel for nightlife – no arguments there. Pubs, dive bars, speakeasies, live music, jam nights, clubs, techno, house, good genres of electronic music (psytrance), Hebrew poetry slams: it’s all there! There’s sick street art, buskers, and espressos at every turn. The beaches are excellent (and the sunsets are even better) but you’ll want to head north or south from the main hub to escape the crowds. Jaffa is the old town (which Tel Aviv has built around) and here things get more historical and Arabic in vibes.

Ultimately, there are some of Israel’s tourist attractions in Tel Aviv but I’d say that, for most backpackers, Tel Aviv is the tourist attraction. People come here to live the Tel Avivian life and I’d also say that it’s a must-visit place in Israel to gather the full-scope of the complexity of the country. Tel Aviv is also very safe (for the region).

#2 – Neve Sha’anan – A place of interest in Israel for seeking complexity.

• A cheaper area in Tel Aviv.
• Another side of the city.
• An important place to visit in Israel.

Still very much a part of Tel Aviv, Neve Sha’anan is another world. Seen as the ‘underbelly of Tel Aviv’, it’s become the home for Israel’s many refugees, impoverished, and unwashed. Here you’ll find many of Tel Aviv’s low-class brothels, streetwalkers, and homeless muttering to themselves as they trawl for scraps. It’s not a dangerous place in Israel, however; violent crime statistics are very low in the country.

• Why it’s awesome: It may not be everyone’s vibe but I love it! Things are cheaper, the scope of cuisine is spectacular, and it’s a delicious peek below Tel Aviv’s mask of acceptance. Rough or not, this is multiculturalism in Israel at its finest and also it’s a fantastic opportunity to see the dichotomy of the country.
• What to do there: Eating is a great start! Authentic Sudanese, Eritrean, Chinese, Indian, Filipino, and more – a nice alternative to when the cheap falafel and hummus gets old (spoiler: it never does). A walk around the neighbourhood on Friday night (the start of Shabbat) when the rest of the city begins to hibernate offers some of the most chaotic vibrancy. It really felt like stepping back into Asia.

I ended up uncovering the area because of my work reviewing Abraham Tours . It’s definitely a tour I recommend and you can book through them or, even better, contact Rikki (she was the guide) to book directly: +972-52-217-6188 . Whatever you choose to do, get Rikki: the girl knows her stuff – crazy insightful!

#3 – Jerusalem – A famous place in Israel of biblical proportions!

• The City of (the Abrahamic) God.
• It’s Jerusalem.
• Spectacular architecture.

I don’t really like Jerusalem either – sorry! It still stands as the most famous place in Israel to visit though – no contest. If Neve Sha’anan is another world, Jerusalem is another planet. Taking the one-hour drive from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem is enough to get culture shock.

• Why it’s awesome: Dude, it’s Jerusalem! The city has had so many kingdoms within it, battles fought for it, and people who have died because of it (steadfastly avoiding the obvious Jesus joke). I don’t usually link Wikipedia but this shit be bonkers! Whether you’re looking for biblical sites in Israel, holy places to visit, or just history… well… it’s Jerusalem! If your looking for the best hostels to stay in , Jerusalem has got a fair few of those too.
• What to do there: It’s the (disputed) capital of Israel and a big city; the vibe may be different to Tel Aviv but it still has all the offerings. Nightlife, markets, secrets, hustle and bustle – just with more funny hats! The Old City of Jerusalem is definitely one of Israel’s must-sees.

Outside of that, I’d recommend just strolling Jerusalem’s neighbourhoods and absorbing the feeling. Stepping from the new city to the old, the Jewish to the Muslim Quarter, or from a secular area to an Ultra-Orthodox neighbourhood all offer they’re own level of inundation of the senses. Just be wary that you don’t contract Jerusalem Syndrome – Jerusalem is crazy and I haven’t met someone who disagrees yet.

I’m not gonna spend all post plugging Abraham Tours, but the ‘Meet the Ultra Orthodox Tour’ in Jerusalem was another of their’s that I thoroughly enjoyed. It’s for sure worth the consideration if you got the spare shekels.

#4 – The Dead Sea – Time for a fun place to visit in Israel!

• Quintessential photo-ops!
• Become a mud monster.
• The water tastes like a fish’s taint.

It’s a stone’s throw from Jerusalem (and Tel Aviv – Israel is small) and it’s the Dead Sea. You know, the sea so salty you can’t sink in it! You can still drown if you’re a dumbhead though.

• Why it’s awesome: C’mon, it’s the Dead Sea; this was a childhood dream of mine since I was six! If you want to talk about unique places in Israel and must-see things, this is it (unless you’ve been to Jordan – shh ).
• What to do there: As my friend reminded my perpetually-moving mind when we were there: “Just lie back, close your eyes, and feel the water take your weight.” Unless you have any open cuts on your body. Then you’re in for a world of pain!

We went to Kalia Beach which, sadly, costs ($17) . It’s pretty much a day at the beach for Israelis – complete with the ‘lowest bar in the world’ – except with a bonus total exfoliation and searing agony of the eyeballs (AVOID) .

If you want to find a free place to camp and dirtbag by the Dead Sea, they definitely exist, particularly in the south. People sleep out, build huts, and do them; I just never caught the name of one or followed it up. That’s your adventure!

Ein Gedi is also near the Dead Sea and is another crazy beautiful place to visit in Israel for some nature goodness.

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

#5 – Nazareth – A popular place in Israel to praise Jesus.

• Quiet (except at Christmas – ugh).
• Warm vibes.

Nazareth is definitely a religious place to visit in Israel for the lovers of Jesus but I’m skirting that because it’s got nothing to do with why I love it. I came here after roughly two weeks in Tel Aviv and suddenly it felt like I could breathe again. Suddenly, I was in a place where the streets were quieter and the people weren’t inexplicably rude for no reason. Nazareth is chill.

• Why it’s awesome: Nazareth is known as the “Arab Capital of Israel” and that changes the vibes rather significantly. The food also changes but only marginally. The old city (as usual) is mega-pretty and it just so happens that my favourite hostel in Israel is there too.
• What to do there: You’ll find a lot of Israel’s religious sites here pertaining to that Jesus feller (’Jesus of Nazareth’ – makes sense); Nazareth is the starting point of the Jesus Trail too. It’s not just Christian jazz though – there’s a large Muslim population as well which means gorgeous mosques and echoing prayers at sundown.

For the Messiah-chasers, it’s a top tourist destination in Israel. However, for those who aren’t seeking biblical places to visit, it’s just a chill refuge from the admittedly challenging nature of backpacking in Israel . The city is full of cats and friendly folk, there are mountains around Nazareth to wander up, and you can practice some Arabic!

Check out Abu Ashraf – the knaffeh is supreme – and Abu Salem too. The drinks are a tad expensive but the decor is intoxicating and people-watching old Arabic men shredding the shesh-besh (backgammon) board never gets old.

#6 – Bethlehem – Starting off the places to visit in Palestine list.

• Jesus again.
• A gentle introduction to Palestine.
• Phenomenal street art.

Since we covered Nazareth, we’re visiting the West Bank with the next few entries and Bethlehem is a good start. It’s still very much a top religious tourist attraction in Israel. I’d also say it’s one of the best starting places to visit in in Israel and Palestine if you’re ready to start the journey down the rabbit hole.

• Why it’s awesome: The birthplace of Jesus is a good start! Past that, there are a few more of Israel’s sacred ancient sites and then there’s the wall. The barrier wall between the West Bank and Israel (that also annexes Rachel’s Tomb). The wall goes by many names depending on your stance on the on the conflict and it’s all thin-ice-politics but regardless, the wall is definitely a must-see thing in Israel both for the awesome art and what it represents.
• What to do there: There’s a whole host of the must-see biblical sites in Israel. The aforementioned Rachel’s Tomb , The Church of the Nativity (built over Jesus’s alleged birthplace), The Milk Grotto (ew)… That’s just a small selection too. The occupation wall is something else. It’s covered in graffiti from the humorous to the downright sobering and even includes some work from Banksy – it’s the real reason I recommend visiting Bethlehem. The art is spectacular, and the selfie-ops are tempting, but when you’re trailing the wall just try to remember what you’re actually looking at under the street art.

Read the stories posted on the wall and take a moment to feel the gravitas of Palestine.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – Other Biblical Sites in Israel – Rounding off the holy places to visit in Israel.

Before we head deeper into the West Bank, let’s round off the religious places to visit in Israel. To be fair, most of these are more places to visit in Palestine.

It’s not my jam but neither is orange marmalade and my mum loves both orange marmalade and Jesus and she’s the best! Let’s take a look at the remaining must-see biblical sites in Israel for all the lovers of orange marmalade:

• Jericho: Of the ‘we made your walls fall down and then genocided the entire city’ fame. Historically speaking, that probably didn’t happen, but the ruins here are old and well predate any biblical events (except, arguably, Genesis 1:1). They’re not super impressive but good for the archaeology/history buffs.
• The Mount of Temptation: Presumed to be Mount Quarantania , this was where Jesus was tempted during a 40-day fast by Satan rocking up with a few delicately-rolled doobs and some Chocolate Fudge Brownie Ben & Jerry’s ice-cream (biblical accuracy not guaranteed). Mount Quarantania is right above Jericho and the monastery constructed underneath is actually a super pretty place to visit in Israel.
• Mount Tabor: Close to Nazareth and the supposed location of the Transfiguration of Jesus. It’s also just a cool looking mountain!
• Jordan River: And the Baptismal Site of Jesus Christ. For the record, I had a dunk, but it doesn’t count as baptism if you do it to yourself.

#8 – The West Bank – Palestine – All important places to visit in Israel.

• The people are kind.
• The coffee and cigarettes are cheaper!
• Street food is back.

Ok, ready to do this? Let’s go deeper.

Although there are some of Israel’s popular places scattered around the West Bank (namely, the aforementioned biblical sites), travelling to the West Bank for Palestine itself is not high on the standard itinerary for Israel. Although some may worry that it’s a dangerous place in Israel, my experience was that it’s not.

If visiting the West Bank is not for you, then that’s your choice and totally ok. BUT, you can’t really say you explored the secrets of Israel unless you explored all of it. There are more than just Israelis living in Israel.

• Why it’s awesome: Look, there is definitely beauty in Palestine of the ‘appeal to tourists’ variety but that’s not necessarily why travel there. I actually found it heartbreaking. For those that aren’t used to travelling in developing countries, I imagine these feelings may only be compounded. This is why I say that both Tel Aviv and the Palestinian cities and villages are both must-see places in Israel. The act of travelling only 70 km changes everything.
• What to do there: Meet the people. The Palestinian places are safe in Israel and most people are not hostile in the slightest with tourists (yes, even Americans). You can potentially expect some India-esque moments to get some shekels off you so keep your smart traveller hat on . They’re welcoming and warm and just really excited to talk, both about Palestine and the world at large that they’ll never be permitted to see.

If you want to get out in the villages, then I that applaud that. Otherwise, for the city life, Nablus is a tad more chill than Ramallah but they’re both going to give you a good understanding… plus the food is the best!

Also, the Palestinian kids really know how to throw down for a good night! Check Radio in Ramallah on Thursdays. That’ll get you started, at least.

#9 – Hebron – An extremely important thing to see in Israel.

• You gotta see it to believe it.
• It’s a place you must see in Israel.
• Conveniently, super cheap!

I counted this separately from the other places to visit in the West Bank because it deserves it’s own entry. I met a traveller in Israel who enjoys seeking out alternative and darker places . I forewarned him that Hebron is heavy. Three days later I got a message:

Dude, this is fucking heavy…

• Why it’s awesome: Short of Gaza, this is the best place to visit in Israel to see the conflict at its most real. The city is divided into two sections one of which is H1 – the Palestinian side of the city. H1 sits behind walls, barbed-wire, and assault rifles brandished by the Israeli military. Inside is living standards much, much closer to a city in India than Tel Aviv. It’s not “awesome”; It’s heavy and it hurts and, ultimately, I feel it’s a must-see place in Israel. The only way to make up your own mind is to go there and I’m grateful I did. Broke Backpacker Senior Editor, Freeborn Aiden , also rates at is as the MUST SEE place in Israel if you want to even begin to understand the complexities.
• What to do there: The main tourist attraction in Hebron is the Tomb of the Patriarchs , the supposed burial site of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and their respective wives. The tomb itself is split in half – a synagogue and a mosque. Outside of that, I’d say, again, walk around H1 and meet the people. It won’t take long before you’re sitting and drinking coffee with a local.

This is the last Abraham Tour I’m mentioning. I did the Hebron Dual Narrative Tour and, although rushed (Hebron deserves more exploration), it’s still an extremely insightful tour that aptly displays the dualistic nature of the situation. It’s a recommendation.

Lastly, for these Palestinian areas, I think it’s well worth finding accommodation with a local. That could mean a homestay, an Airbnb in a shared space, or even Couchsurfing is super possible! One way or another, I think you’ll get way more from the experience doing that than from staying in a hotel.

#10 –  Mitzpe Ramon – Back to the most beautiful places to visit in Israel!

• Sunset majesty.
• Hippies unite!
• Ganja – that is all.

Ok, that’s it. Don’t worry; the rest of the list is only the pretty shit! Topping that off is Mitzpe Ramon, one of the best places to travel to in Israel for sunsets and smoke!

• Why it’s awesome: Mitzpe Ramon is a town located on a ridge overlooking Makhtesh Ramon (Ramon Crater) . I’ll talk about the sheer stunning awesomeness of the Negev Desert and south Israel in a moment but suffice to say the outlook from the ridge is stunning! Mitzpe Ramon has also become an epicentre for all things hippy in Israel. There’s a lively little community built around music, art, and creative expression and, of course, find a hippy, find joints. To be fair, you’ll find joints everywhere in Israel.
• What to do there: Smoke joints…? Oh, other than that? Hiking, for sure! Israel is actually super dope for hiking and Mitzpe Ramon is no different . You have a whole host of trails at your disposal and they’re all blisteringly gorgeous! Just remember to take water… and a joint… maybe two.

#11 – Eilat and Southern Israel – My personal top place to visit in Israel (minus Eilat).

• That desert, man.
• The Red Sea!
• Cross to Sinai in Egypt.

Ok, so I’m mostly going to skip over Eilat. The Red Sea is there which is rad but, otherwise, it’s a resort town: it feels like Vegas and it’s yukky and I don’t like it. Diving in Eilat is also a thing. So why talk about Eilat? Because everything around it is spectacular!

• Why it’s awesome: The Negev Desert , the Red Sea , Sinai (in Egypt)… For me, southern Israel was the only part I found that was truly felt uniquely beautiful (including Mitzpe Ramon – yum) and it’s the most beautiful place in Israel for me. The Negev Desert legit looks like Mars at times and the Red Sea is crazy pretty! Sunrise, sunset… it’s all good!
• What to do there: Consider Eilat just your base for the nature. You’ll find parties there at night obviously, but it’s way too flashy for my taste. You’ve got some pretty dope hiking in the area though; Timna Park and the Red Canyon are both excellent or you can just disappear into the desert… on weekends. The rest of the time it’s a firing zone for the military sooo maybe a no go. It’s also the Red Sea which means all things aquatic: there’s diving in Eilat, snorkelling, paddleboarding, sailing… Pretty much anything that doesn’t require waves!

You can also cross to the Sinai region in Egypt which is equally common for Israeli tourists. It’s super beautiful but it’s technically not a ‘place to visit in Israel’ so read our Backpacking Egypt Travel Guide for more info.

#12 – Kibbutzim or Moshavim – Both historical places in Israel and an escape.

• The sounds of birds and cows.
• Fruit from the trees.
• Cheap living.

There’s a whole interesting history here with kibbutzim and the founding of the state of Israel, communities built on socialist ideals, and also just how things change over time. Long story short though, they started as agricultural communities built around communal living and work. The system has changed and restructured a lot in recent years, however.

Moshavim are similar but different. Still all about the agriculture and community but just a bit less about the socialist ideals!

• Why it’s awesome: Firstly, the vibe just chills out a whole helluva a lot more once you reach a kibbutz or moshav, especially outside the urban centre of Israel. They’re agricultural communities which means nature, fresh food and veg, sometimes hippies and smoke, and an escape from the chaos! The shared-lifestyles of these communities is really cool to observe. Israel has it’s own twist on the whole ‘lack of privacy’ thing in Asia (yes, Israel is still Asia) and aspects of it I really enjoy.
• What to do there: Farm work, mainly. Kibbutzim have a long-standing history of taking in travellers in exchange for work (the OG Workaway) and although the game has changed pretty substantially, you’ll still find farms seeking volunteers. Alternatively, just rock up and camp in the fields for a night. They’re always super pretty and no one will really care as long as you don’t step on any of their crops. Again, it’s that ‘lack of privacy’ thing.

Any suggestions for best places to go in Israel for the kibbutz/moshav life? I spent some time in Kfar Yehezkel and the family vibes are high; here’s their Workaway page and our review of Workaway with a sweet, sexy bonus deal inside.  I also camped out at Ramot Menashe , Dafna is supposed to be dope, and Samar down near Eilat is full of alternative vibes.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

#13 Haifa and Acre – Maybe not the best but still cool places to visit in Israel.

• Cities but more chill.
• Beaches but more chill.
• A bit more harmony.

I lumped these two of Israel’s famous places together because they’re so close to each other. It’s perfectly reasonable to stay at one and day trip to the other. It’s like half-an-hour on the train.

Two seaport cities of mixed ethnic and religious distribution, there’s relative harmony here. They’re cities but they’re more chill cities. I think it’s the mountains nearby; mountain folk are always good.

• Why it’s awesome: You get the beach, you get less crowds than in the centre, and you get mountains too! It’s literally the best of everything. Although nothing like Tel Aviv, Haifa has grown as hub for younger Israelis and you’ll find some cool stuff happening in the city. Hadar neighbourhood is a good start. Acre has a long history of being in a pretty strategic location so you’ll find some cool old-world goodness there.
• What to do there: A good daytrip from Haifa is the Mount Carmel National Park or you’ve also got the considerably impressive Bahai Gardens that overlook the city and port. (I didn’t even know that the Bahai were a thing until I got to Haifa – super interesting!) Acre stands as one of Israel’s more historical places to visit with landmarks that date back to middle-ages and that whole Crusades shebang. There’s the almost entirely Arabic old city which also means markets which ALSO means cheap coffee, tobacco, pita, and za’atar… Breakfast is served!
• If it strikes your fancy, there are lots of volunteering options in Haifa with Worldpackers, a reputable organisation where you can lend a helping hand in exchange for accomodation. Check out our Worldpackers review to see if an immersive work exchange in Haifa fits your bill.

#14 – Golan Heights – For views and other must-see sights in Israel.

• Lotsa nature!
• Different vibes again.

You want some nature? The Golan is full of it! Heading this far up north is much like heading all the way south: you’re well outside the urban areas of Israel now.

The Golan Heights is the region occupied by Israel during the Six-Day-War in 1967 and up this way you’ll meet many Syrian-Druze people many of which still hold no Israeli citizenship. Some are by choice, some are because of political tensions, it doesn’t matter – the whole situation is messy. The point is, it’s pretty!

• What it’s awesome: The Golan is a super beautiful place in Israel and a destination worth travelling too. Mountains and bits of greenery or, hell, you’ll even get snow at the right time in the right places! There are villages around for sure, and Israeli settlements too (not unpacking that dynamite-laced Pandora’s Box, thank you), but everything is much more spread out. This one is for the nature.
• What to do there: Odem is a good base. The Golan Heights Hostel is there which draws in a good vibe of traveller (you know the one I mean). For solo backpackers travelling in Israel especially, I’d say it’s second only to Me’ever. If you’re there in winter, and got the cash to flash, Mount Hermon is the best place to go in Israel for skiing! And also the only! And I use the word ‘best’ very loosely because it’s Israel and not exactly famed for skiing. Or, if you’re interested in the Syrian-Druze people and life, head to Madjal Shams below the majesty of Mount Hermon. Believe it or not, there’s a dope little arts scene!

#15 – Sea of Galilee – The top attraction of Israel’s Galilee region.

• Last of Israel’s three big bodies of water.
• This one is freshwater.
• And full of fish.

Yep, the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret) which is actually a freshwater lake (the Dead Sea is also a lake but shh ). There’s a number of  Israel’s other holy places to visit around the sea-lake given that this was kinda Jesus’s stomping ground.

• Why it’s awesome: Just a big ol’ pretty lake! There’s not much to say really. Swimming, kayaking, chasing the Jesus Trail, and everything else is here! There are mountains around, nature, kibbutzim, and all kinds of goodies.
• What to do there: Israel’s main tourist attraction on the sea of Galilee is Tiberias , which, naturally because this is Israel, has a number of holy sites. Alternatively, you could just do what I suggest which is skip the sacred-city stuff (sacred-old-city burnout is synonymous to temple burnout in Asia). Instead, just explore around the perimeter of the lake and you’ll find kibbutzim and other nice little pockets of prettiness to explore; HaOn is another good place to visit around Israel’s lying scumbag “sea”.

#16 – Hiking in Israel – Not a place to visit in Israel, strictly speaking.

Yep, so, this isn’t so much a place to travel to in Israel as a thing to do but it’s also one of my favourite things about the country (except, perhaps, for the abundance of cheap hummus and tahini). Israel is an extremely walkable country at the best of times (given how small it is) and the presence of a large variety of hiking trails only makes that better.

The Israel National Trail is the cross-country trek for those wanting the feather in their hat. Alternatively, just tackle stretches of it at your leisure.

There’s no shortage of other trails around, like the Jesus Trail I mentioned or even just loading up Maps.Me is gonna present you with a wealth of options. Hell, if you see something on the horizon worth walking to and all that lays between you is the fields of a kibbutz or moshav, just go for it. Yay for socialist ideals!

You don’t have to walk the whole damn country, but there’s really no better way to get out and experience some of Israel’s best places to see. You may also discover some of Israel’s hiding secrets. Maybe, you’ll even find the Messiah.

Dun dun dunnnnn.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Get insured before hitting up all the best places to visit in Israel!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

There are missiles, and terrorists, and enemies at our borders – won’t somebody think of the children!

Na, look, honestly, travelling in Israel has not felt anymore unsafe than most other places I’ve been in the world. Of course, Iran just swore vengeance upon Israel and I’m still here for another 5 days so lucky I got insurance!

Remember, when you are traveling, shit can happen, and that’s when you need insurance!

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Israel

What is the prettiest place in Israel?

In my opinion, Mitzpe Ramon is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Israel.

What should you not miss in Israel?

No trip to Israel would be complete without visiting Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

What is the most visited place in Israel?

Jerusalem Biblical Zoo is the most visited place to visit in Irsrael.

Is Israel a safe place to visit?

Israel is on the whole a safe place to visit but tourists should never let their gaurd down. You can read more about safety in Israel in our guide to safety in Tel Aviv .

I think we did it: an honest and fair list of the top places to visit in Israel that has a bit of everything. Nothing too contentious was said (I think) and, best of all, you now have yourself a neat little guide to Israel’s must-visit places!

It’s not always an easy country to travel – at least, it wasn’t for me. Things are jarring, many things are heartbreaking, and at times, it feels more illogical and chaotic than India. Just with nicer roads and better public transport.

Still, I can’t say I’m not grateful for visiting Israel and backpacking around it. Some of Israel’s places to visit will give you those wonderful sunset vibes. Some will be an excellent photo-op. Many will leave you with a lot to digest. Either way, you will learn and grow.

I said before and I’ll say it again. There are many beautiful things in Israel. There are a lot of good people in Israel. And there is a lot worth making the effort for.

Just make sure you see all of Israel. See all the things to see in Israel and write your own story through your own experience. And let there be hummus.

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely people suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Ziggy Samuels

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Must-see attractions in Israel

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…

Masada Museum

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

Beit She’arim National Park

North Coast

Nestled between Mt Carmel and Lower Galilee, spellbinding Beit She’arim is pitted with ancient catacombs, many of which you can enter. In the 2nd century…

Beit Guvrin-Maresha National Park

Covering 5 sq km of the Judean Hills, Beit Guvrin-Maresha’s rocky valleys and low hills are home to mountain gazelles, hyenas and songbirds – but most…

Rosh HaNikra Grottoes

Bone-white limestone cliffs seem to burst from the deep blue sea at this geological beauty spot straddling the Israel–Lebanon border. A cable car descends…

Yehudiya Nature Reserve

Golan Heights

Both casual strollers and experienced hikers – especially those who aren’t averse to getting wet – will find plenty to engage and challenge them in…

Banias Nature Reserve

The gushing springs, waterfalls and lushly shaded streams of Banias Nature Reserve form one of the most beautiful – and popular – nature spots in the…

Nimrod Fortress

Built by Muslims in the 13th century to protect the road from Tyre to Damascus, Nimrod Fortress rises fairy-tale-like on a long, narrow ridge (altitude…

Hecht Museum

This university campus museum showcases engrossing archaeological finds such as well-restored mosaics and troves of ancient coins, but the pièce de…

Tel Aviv Museum of Art

The modern ‘envelope’ building by American architect Preston Scott Cohen is one of many reasons to visit this impressive gallery located on the eastern…

Park HaYarkon

Park HaYarkon is Tel Aviv's answer to Central Park. Joggers, cyclists, skaters, footballers and frisbee-throwers should head for this 3.5-sq-km stretch of…

Centre International Marie de Nazareth

Almost across the street from the Basilica of the Annunciation, this stunning complex is run by Chemin Neuf, a Roman Catholic community based in France,…

Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation

According to Greek Orthodox tradition, the Annunciation took place while Mary was fetching water from the spring situated directly under this richly…

Ramat HaNadiv Gardens

Walking trails weave among palm groves, rose beds and succulents at these expansive botanic gardens, 4km southwest of central Zichron Ya’akov. The gardens…

Tishbi Winery

Gastronomes won’t want to miss swirling a wine glass or three at this atmospheric vineyard, 4km south of central Zichron Ya’akov. Tishbi was established…

Ancient Bathhouse

When Elias Shama and his Belgian-born wife Martina set about renovating their shop in 1993, they uncovered a network of 2000-year-old clay pipes almost…

Golan Archaeological Museum

A real gem of a museum. Highlights include extraordinary basalt lintels and Aramaic inscriptions from 32 Byzantine-era Golan synagogues; coins minted…

Megiddo National Park

St John predicted the last great battle on earth would take place at this sun-scorched hill, better known as Armageddon (Revelation 16:16). Aside from…

Stella Maris Carmelite Monastery

The Carmelite Order was established in the late 12th century when Crusader-era pilgrims, inspired by the prophet Elijah, opted for a hermitic life on the…

Clandestine Immigration & Naval Museum

Using a series of powerful video testimonials, this fascinating museum showcases the Zionist Movement’s determined efforts to infiltrate Jewish refugees…

Jaffa Flea Market

In recent years, lots of energy has gone into giving Jaffa's Old City a tourism-triggered makeover, and the results are undeniably attractive. However,…

Gordon Beach

South from Hilton Beach, this is Tel Aviv's main beach. Well equipped with sunloungers, ice-cream shops, an outdoor gym and beach restaurants, it's…

Design Museum Holon

Ron Arad's elongated and extremely elegant swirl of red concrete and steel is one of Greater Tel Aviv's most striking examples of contemporary…

Carmel Market

Nestled between the tranquil streets of the Yemenite Quarter and the creative corridor of Nahalat Binyamin St, Tel Aviv's busiest street market is, in…

Herzliya Beach

The long stretch of white sandy beaches from the marina to the Apollonia National Park is the main pull for people coming to Herzliya. Thanks to its sheer…

Netanya Beach

One of Israel's best-kept and most beautiful beaches, Netanya is actually a string of 12km-long sandy shores. The further you walk away from the city…

Pool of Al Anazia

Atmospheric and shaded by ancient stone structures, the 'Pool of Arches' is an underground 8th-century reservoir. The most significant structure left from…

Palmachim Beach

Considered one of Israel's finest beaches, Palmachim is a natural rocky bay with a small but excellent sandy beach. It's situated west of the main town of…

Gamla Nature Reserve

The site of a thriving Jewish village during the late Second Temple period, Gamla dared to defy the Romans during the Great Jewish Revolt (66–70 CE) and…

Quneitra Viewpoint

From high atop Mt Avital, top-secret Israel Defence Forces' electronics peer deep into Syria, but the Quneitra Viewpoint, on the volcano’s lower flanks,…

Qumran National Park

World-famous for having hidden the Dead Sea Scrolls for almost 2000 years, Qumran was the site of a small Essene settlement around the time of Jesus –…

Umm Al Kanatir Synagogue

What's truly extraordinary about this 6th-century synagogue is that after it was destroyed in the great earthquake of 749 CE, the site, because of its…

Beit Lohamei HaGeta’ot

Founded in 1949, the same year as the kibbutz, the world's first Holocaust museum focuses on the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. The kibbutz founders considered…

Shrine of the Báb

Though it’s primarily a pilgrimage site, modestly dressed visitors are allowed to enter this domed shrine holding the remains of the Báb, spiritual…

Our Lady of the Ark of the Covenant

Crowned with a statue of Mary carrying the infant Jesus, this hilltop church was built on the site of Kiryat Ya’arim, believed by many Christians to be…

Kid-friendly science exhibits fill this elegant 1912 building, including hands-on displays in the astronomy rooms, optical illusions and a hall of mirrors…

Tel Aviv Boardwalk

No visit to Tel Aviv is complete without a seaside stroll, and after recent renovations to the city’s boardwalk (tayelet in Hebrew), it is an absolute…

Aqua waves lash the shore of this long sandy beach, equidistant between Tel Aviv and Haifa (30 minutes by car). With free showers and toilets, a patrolled…

More destinations you need to see

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Restaurants & Cafés
• Music & Nightlife
• Arts & Culture
• City & Area Guides
• Los Angeles

The top 33 things to do in Israel

Discover Israel with our list of the very best things to do: whether you are looking for restaurants, landmarks, beaches, experiences or ancient sites – Israel has it all

With all of Israel's opportunities for adventure – from finger lickin' culinary endeavors to uncovering ancient ruins – it's a legitimate challenge to pick and choose what to see and do first. That's why we've come to the rescue with a tried-and-true to DO list that'll have you chomping at the bit for the day's (and night's) itinerary of locally-loved sites , sounds, and signature Israeli moments

Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere.

You can also find out more about  how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world , or take a look at our list of the  50 best things to do in the world right now .

The top things to do in Israel

1.  stroll the ancient pathways of jerusalem's old city.

• Attractions
• Public spaces
• Jerusalem Old City

What is it? The Old City is a 220-acre walled area overflowing with more history, culture, and spirituality than any other place in the world.

Why go? Divided into four quarters - Muslim, Christian, Armenian, and Jewish – perk your ears up to have a listen as the ancient area whispers its millennia-old stories. Soak up the intensity as you elbow your way through the mosque-going masses on Fridays. Witness the black hats bob and the ritual fringes sway as the ultra-Orthodox quorum prays at Judaism’s holiest site, the Western Wall . Take in the awe-inspiring song of pilgrims shrouded in their white garb, retracing the path of Jesus through the smooth cobblestoned steps of the Via Dolorosa .  

Don’t miss: The Old City is replete with sites that jump off of the pages of the Bible, such as the Temple Mount , the Tower of David , King David’s Tomb, and the Last Supper room. In the early 70s, Neil Armstrong visited wall excavations at the Davidson Center and said that it was more exciting to him as a Christian to step on the steps of the Temple Mount through Jesus' steps 2,000 years ago than to step foot on the moon.

2.  Ooh and ahh around the White City

What is it? A neighborhood in Tel Aviv rife with original Bauhaus and International-style buildings harking back to the 20s and 30s.

Why go? In 2003, the area was dubbed 'The White City' and designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site for having the largest concentration of Bauhaus buildings in the world.

Don’t miss: Sit at a kiosk café on Rothschild Boulevard and enjoy a coffee amidst the stunning architecture while watching everyday Israeli life unfold in front of your eyes.

3.  Get your dose of contemporary works at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art

• Art and design
• Tel Aviv - Jaffa

What is it? The artfully architected museum houses the best of Israeli art as well as new and old masters.

Why go? Gracing the walls are Israel’s most comprehensive collections of modern, contemporary, and Israeli art . The museum boasts an impressive collection of the old masters, diverse temporary exhibitions, displays of photography, design & architecture, a performance hall, and a beautiful, calming sculpture garden to wander around or relax in.

Don’t miss: The fittingly beautiful restaurant Pastel, just next door to the stunning Paul and Herta Amir wing of the museum.

4.  Wine and dine in the Old City of Jaffa

What is it? An ancient port city with Levantine influences combined with Ottoman-era walkways riddled with churches, galleries , and trendy restaurants .

Why go? One of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean basin, the Old City of Jaffa is proudly perched on a cliff protruding from the water, puncturing the Tel Aviv skyline. The range of attractions in Old Jaffa is startling, from mosques and churches to ancient clock towers, museums, galleries, restaurants and bars - the list of things to do in this new-old city is never ending.

Don’t miss: The iconic Shuk Hapishpeshim  is a maze-like flea market where locals and visitors alike scour for bargains and treasures, while also exploring the various design studios in the area.

5.  Be inspired by a different faith at the Baha’i Gardens

• Parks and gardens
• Hadar-Carmel‏

What is it? Built by the members of the Baha'i faith who consider Mount Carmel a Holy place, the Baha'i Gardens is arguably Haifa 's most famous attraction .

Why go? Built on 19 terraces, beginning at the foot of the mountain and ascending towards its summit, the main axis points towards Akko , a historically and religiously important city to the Baha'i . At the center of the meticulously maintained gardens stands the Shrine of the Bab, the burial place of the religion's founder, whose golden dome illuminates the grounds.

Don’t miss: The gardens offer splendid views of the Haifa Bay, the Galilee , and the Mediterranean . It's possible to tour independently, but there are free guided tours (every day but Wednesday).

6.  Experience a new kind of Israeli cuisine at OCD

• price 4 of 4

What is it? A communal fine dining experience that has you sitting with old friends and strangers (or new friends) in Jaffa with extreme attention to detail and satisfying, delectable dishes.

Why go? OCD  lives up to its name, offering a meticulous dinner experience. Tasting menus by the infamous 20-something Israeli chef Raz Rahav, are crafted to perfection with flavors that pop and playfulness that entices your tongue.

Don’t miss: Making a reservation on time. There are only two time slots per evening Monday-Friday - 7 or 9:30. And this top-notch dinner is one of the most talked about experiences in town.

7.  Go ‘under the sea’ at the Coral Beach Underwater Observatory

What is it? One of the world’s most spectacular underwater  universes, including an observatory, a nature museum, 40 fish tanks, a sea turtle/stingray pool and a shark pool.

Why go? There's a darkroom specifically designed to showcase the fascinating flashlight fish: a bioluminescent fish that carries a glowing bacteria beneath its eyes. Head just off the shoreline for the underwater observatory which boasts observation decks above and below the surface, then climb 90 steps to the Peace Terrace for expansive views of Israel, Jordan, and Egypt.

Don’t miss: Science-lovers will ooh and aah at the Coral Beach Nature Reserve’s Oceanarium: a virtual-reality, sci-fi film with interactive moving seats.

8.  Delve into the historic intrigue of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

• Religious buildings and sites

What is it? A 12th Century building with 4th century origins, this is one of Jerusalem's most revered Christian sites.

Why go? Built on the site renown by Christians as the location of Jesus' resurrection, the church has been a location of pilgrimage since the 4th century. Christians of all denominations and people from around the world can be seen visiting its various frankincense-laden vestibules and chambers.

Don’t miss: Take an informational guided tour to uncover more about the deeply-rooted history of this ancient church without becoming overwhelmed by its various nooks and crannies.

9.  Zip-line through Timna Park

• Historic buildings and sites

What is it? North of Eilat in the  majestic Negev Desert, Timna Park is an awe-inspiring mix of history and geology. Its 15,000 acres include valleys, cliffs, and even a lake - all surrounding Mount Timna – the world's first ever copper mine.

Why go? The site has a range of attractions , including ancient rock formations like The Mushroom, The Arches, Solomon’s Pillars, and The Valley of Rock Drawings.

Don’t miss:   For those who want a total desert experience , you can camp overnight and truly see everything the park has to offer under the stars.

10.  Float with ease at the Dead Sea

What is it? This most peculiar body of water is located at the lowest point on the face of the earth –with an extremely high salt concentration of 33.7% - making it the saltiest body of water known to humankind.

Why go? The Dead Sea is also chock-full of skin-friendly therapeutic minerals that reputedly combat the effects of aging and skin ailments. Pack your beach bag and head to the popular Kalia Beach, which has changing rooms, showers, lounge chairs, plenty of shady areas, a fully-stocked snack bar, and a lifeguard.

Don’t miss: Indulge in a free mud bath, and slather yourself with the gooey mineral mud from head-to-toe for the ultimate Instagram opp. Just don't dunk your head!

11.  Go out for drinks to Port Said

• price 2 of 4

What is it? This outdoor hangout is the capital of Tel Avivian hipster life .

Why go? Located just across from the largest synagogue in the city, you won’t find anyone praying here. With a massive vinyl collection, the hippest waitresses, and a menu created under the supervision of iconic Israeli chef, Eyal Shani (also of HaSalon , HaMiznon , and Beit Romano ), you’ll understand why Port Said has been successfully serving the cool crowd for years.

Don’t miss: Sitting on the steps out front and waiting for a table. Running into half of the city and schmoozing while in line is part of the whole experience.

12.  Marvel at the circle of nature in the Steinhardt Museum of Natural History

• Natural history

What is it? This newly-minted landmark museum has everything you need to know about Israel’s natural world and then some.

Why go? The only museum of its kind in the world, these collections include 5.5 million plants and animals that illustrate the history of Israel's (and the rest of the Middle East's) biodiversity over the last century.

Don’t miss: The museum  boasts thousands of displays for audiences to observe, which include collections like biological archaeology and the history of human biodiversity.

13.  Observe Judaism's holiest site on earth - the Wailing Wall

What is it? Considered to be the holiest place for the Jewish faith, this 2,000-year-old wall made of limestone, otherwise known as the ' Kotel ' contains the last remains of the Second Jewish Temple.

Why go? No visit to Jerusalem is complete without a visit to the pulsing center of Jerusalem's ancient heritage . The Kotel is a short walk through the Old City of Jerusalem, leading visitors directly to the sacred site.  

Don’t miss: Be one of the annual million people to write a wish or personal note on a scrap of paper and slit it into the cracks of the wall, as visitors have done since the early 18 th century.

14.  Uncover the luxury behind designer heritage brand, Maskit

• Fashion exhibitions

What is it? Launched in Israel in 1954, by Ruth Dayan, Maskit is a luxury women's ready-to-wear brand that pulls influences from Hungarian, Yemenite, Bulgarian, Bedouin, Palestinian, Druze, Lebanese, and Jewish traditional textiles and craftsmanship.

Why go? The original idea, over half a century ago, was to establish a brand to create work opportunities for new immigrants in fabric and design. Today, Israeli designer Sharon Tal (the former head of embroidery at Alexander McQueen) has breathed new blood into the heritage brand, re-establishing its roots with modern takes on each look.

Don’t miss: A visit to Maskit's stunning showroom in Old Jaffa marries the past and present – with both heirlooms from the brand's inception to Maskit’s new “Desert Collection” featuring mesmerizing cloaks re-imagined from original designs.

15.  Trace the test of time at the Photo House

• Tel Aviv City Center

What is it? Israel's impressive progression has been well documented - and The Photo House's archives are here to prove it.

Why go? First opened on Allenby Street in 1936, the Photo House has a massive collection of negatives numbering close to a million images, and today, the shop houses one of the country’s most monumental private archives of historical photographs, recounting the story of Israel's past, and bursting with nostalgia.

Don’t miss: For those searching for a unique gift , any of the images can be blown up into huge posters, magnets, coasters, and more.

16.  Take a trip to the mysterious Tel Megiddo

• Sightseeing

What is it? This sprawling valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has long been important due to its strategic location connecting Egypt to Damascus.

Why go? The area marks an ancient battlefield including a historic battle between the Egyptians and the Canaanites, and many others. It is also the site prophesied by the Book of Revelations in which the Messiah will defeat the Anti-Christ during the battle of Armageddon. Tel Megiddo seems to have a grueling future ahead of it.

Don’t miss:  There is also a small, sleepy kibbutz, a fascinating museum, and archaeological excavations that include a well-preserved water cistern from the time of Solomon.

17.  Trek a revolutionary route on the Israel National Trail

What is it? Diverse landscapes and various routes make the Israel National Trail a must in hiking communities the world over.

Why go?  The routes are a fantastic way to see the country's beautiful landscape, and they all link up to form one giant hiking path that traverses the entire country. Its northern end is at Dan, near the Lebanese border, and it extends to Eilat at the country's southernmost tip on the Red Sea . The trail has been named by National Geographic as one of the world’s best hikes .

Don’t miss: Google Street View photographed the 660-mile trail, the longest trail photographed and the first that spans a whole country in Google Maps history.

18.  Enjoy a mix of history and culture at the Israel Museum

• Neve Sha'anan

What is it? Arguably Israel’s most magnificent cultural asset, the Israel Museum is consistently ranked among the world’s leading art and archaeology museums.

Why go?   Founded in 1965 and housing the largest encyclopedic collections with works dating from prehistory to the present day in archaeology, fine art, and Jewish art, in the world, this is the place to get schooled on Israel’s 5,000-year history.

Don’t miss: Special events that happen throughout the year, including gallery talks, story times and the 'Big Art for Little Artists' series.

19.  Eat at hands-down the most talked about restaurant in Jerusalem, Machneyuda

• Mediterranean
• Machne Yehuda
• price 3 of 4

What is it? One of the most popular restaurants in the entire country, this hotspot serves market -fresh fare in a lively, happening atmosphere.

Why go? With three Jerusalem chefs Uri Navon, Assaf Granit, and Yossi ‘Pappy’ Elad running the show (also of London's The Palomar fame), this rustic haven for foodies offers a changing market-to-table menu with all its ingredients sourced from the nearby Machne Yehuda Market. The open kitchen gives diners a front seat to the action, and the lively , spirited vibes are like no other.

Don’t miss: Go for the palatable tasting menu to get a mouthful of everything the restaurant has to offer. And book rezzies waaaay in advance.

20.  Fall in love with Caesarea's venerable architecture

What is it? The beautiful port city of Caesarea is known for its remarkable blend of ancient and new architecture.

Why go?  Built by King Herod in the first century BC and serving as the regional capital, today, the city beckons thousands of years back into the past with its innovative, one-of-a-kind underwater park. Visitors can view Herod’s elaborate port and marvel at sunken ships and ancient cargo that look as though they’ve been transported straight out of Pirates of the Caribbean.

Don’t miss: Archeological  findings attest to the inhabitants’ high standard of living; the port, which encompasses no less than 50 acres, features the remains of pools, wave breakers, docking piers, a promenade, and a lighthouse.

21.  Water Hike through the Banias Nature Reserve

• Rivers, lakes and ponds
• Golan Hights

What is it? Rife with abundant natural and historical beauty, from the ruins of ancient cities to the roaring Banias Waterfall, this is the biggest waterfall in Israel.

Why go? Hours can be spent here; walking the trails, exploring the ruins, and picnicking in the lush green woodlands. The Banias Spring emerges at the foot of Mount Hermon and flows powerfully through a canyon for 3.5 km, eventually leading to the waterfall - the most impressive cascade in the country.

Don’t miss: A stepped path near the spring leads to the Banias Cave , where the remains of a temple built by Herod the Great can be seen.

22.  Revel in the unique and youthful atmosphere at Romano

What is it? This lively bar situated right in the heart of Florentine suits all your hipster needs and drinking desires.

Why go? This is the go-to bar for the beautiful crowd of Tel Aviv’s preeminent hipster kingdom. DJs play sets fusing funk and reggae, electro and hip-hop until the early hours of the morning. With beer on tap and a groovy crowd, this is a must-visit if you have even an ounce of bohemian blood bubbling inside of you.

Don’t miss: The food at Romano is an essential part of the experience. Dig in to all the small plates and wash 'em down with shots of anise-flavored arak.

23.  Stroll down the Tel Aviv Promenade

• Tel Aviv Beach 

What is it? The vibrant stretch of coastline from Jaffa in the south to Tel Aviv's port in the north awakens all of the senses with a feast of colors, sights, songs, and smells.

Why go? Nothing beats walking – or cycling – along the seaside promenade , breathing in the fresh, salty air of the Mediterranean. With Old Jaffa stamping the horizon to the south and the city’s skyscrapers to the north, this is the all-time best spot for people-watching and whizzing by.

Don’t miss: Sitting on a bench to watch local life unfold before your eyes with beach-goers, paddle players, sunset buskers, magicians and more doing their thing as the waves gently crash on the shore.

24.  Hike through the Ramon Crater

• Mitzpe Ramon

What is it? The world’s largest erosion crater (“Makhtesh Ramon in Hebrew) boasts spectacular sunsets and once-in-a-lifetime hikes for travelers from all over the world to visit .

Why go? The Negev Desert 's Ramon Crater has an ancient history dating back 220 million years to when an ocean once filled the massive hole. With a network of hikes ranging from easy loops to advanced mountain scales, this worldwide landmark is the perfect place for thrill seekers to get their adrenaline fix.

Don’t miss: Be sure to catch the unbeatable sunset at the Camel Lookout point or camp out overnight under the stars.

25.  Visit the Holocaust memorial museum, Yad Vashem

What is it? Yad Vashem is the largest and most comprehensive Holocaust museum and memorial in the world.

Why go? The state-of-the-art, 45-acre campus comprises indoor museums and outdoor monuments, exhibitions, memorial sites, gardens, sculptures, and world-class research and education centers. The museum’s research is devoted to commemorating the victims and the events of the Holocaust and accurately documenting one of the most ominous periods in human history.

Don’t miss: A hollowed-out cavern with a single candle reflected by a series of mirrors commemorates the 1.5 million children who were lost in the Holocaust.

26.  Take the kids to the Holon Children’s Museum

What is it? Purpose-built for kids to explore, this innovative museum offers a range of activities geared to kids ages 2-12.

Why go? The award-winning museum is a wonderland for kiddies, but it is just clever enough for adults to not-so-secretly love the special exhibits on display. Unlike conventional museums, children are encouraged to touch all of the displays, and even play a role in the exhibits. Designed to create tolerance and dialogue is what makes this museum a real-world model for all.

Don’t miss: Not-to-be-missed are the famous 'Dialogue in the Dark' and 'Invitation to Silence' exhibits, two experiences that provide emotional and telling insight into the worlds of blind and deaf people.

27.  Go on an artful excursion to Ein Hod

What is it? Nestled on a hillside peppered with olive groves, this artists’ colony boasts spectacular views and archeological treasures.

Why go? A visit to the Carmel region without a stop in Ein Hod would be remiss. As well as being jam-packed with galleries and museums , Ein Hod affords views of the Mediterranean Sea and even has a Crusader fortress. There are often free jazz concerts in the outdoor amphitheater and a host of cafes and restaurants make this a popular weekend day spot.

Don’t miss: The range of workshops visitors can take part – everything from sculpting, printing, silk-screening, ceramics and pottery to blacksmithing, lithography, mosaics, and stained glass, as well as several music workshops.

28.  Discover the wonderfully weird mix of elements at the Materials Library in the Holon Mediatheque

What is it? Showcasing over a thousand samples of the world’s most cutting-edge materials, this innovative display includes the very latest in plastics, wood, ceramics, paper, metal, composites, textiles and biodegradables.

Why go? : The space looks something like a kindergarten class on steroids. It's also one of a handful of material museums in the world that is actually open to the public.

Don’t miss An entrance ticket to the adjacent and amazing Design Museum also includes admission to the Materials Library – the best 2-for-1 around.

29.  Kiss the chef at HaSalon

What is it? Celebrated chef Eyal Shani ’s HaSalon is a quintessential Israeli culinary experience. The famous chef has his own straightforward style, one that has truly shaped contemporary Israeli cuisine.

Why go? Diners will find the best vegetables and raw materials coming together in a slick, but hip manner. Arrive for a late night party of flavors and see how every ingredient stands out on its own. The exquisite menu changes on a whim, so there are always delectable surprises.

Don’t miss:   It’s only open Wednesday and Thursday evenings so be sure to plan ahead for this unique dining experience.

30.  Sip on flavorful wine at Tishbi Winery

What is it? Experience over 30 years of a wide array of wines , jellies, and jams ... and a memorable day trip to the countryside of Zichron Ya’akov .

Why go? Established in 1985, Tishbi Winery grew from humble beginnings to a much-admired internationally acclaimed winery. Tishbi Estate Winery remains family run and offers a tasting center including delicious chocolate pairings, and guided wine tours in Hebrew and English. The estate also sells farm-fresh fruit jams, wine jams, and olive oil.

Don’t miss: Pop by the delicious on-site restaurant and see for yourself why the winery produces approximately 1,000,000 bottles every year.

31.  Explore one of Tel Aviv's very first neighborhoods, Kerem Hateimanim

• Markets and fairs
• Shuk  HaCarmel

What is it? What is known as the Yemenite Quarter , just below the iconic Carmel Market , houses a warm and welcoming labyrinth of small streets wafting smells of home-cooked stews, kebabs, and other Yemeni comfort foods . The authentic eateries and story-telling cooks are a neighborhood classic.

Why go? It is the closest travelers will get to staying in a local's home – the food and hospitality are purely wonderful . Don't miss the area's raucous Friday mornings and afternoons before everything shuts down for Shabbat. The area is transformed with lively music, hordes of people, and good vibes.

Don’t miss: At the top of the Carmel Market is the famous Yemen Uzi Eli Etrog Man shop whose age-old medicinal juices are as refreshing as they are healing.

32.  Let go of your inhibitions at the Nalaga’at Center

• Performing arts space

What is it? Prepare yourself for a totally unique theater-going experience exploring culture and arts from an entirely different perspective - a meeting place for both the deaf and blind.

Why go? Located in the heart of Jaffa’s port , the Nalaga’at Center is home to one of Israel’s most unconventional and exceptional theaters : both deaf and blind actors and hosts take the audience on a magical tour into the districts of their own inner world.

Don’t miss: Prior to the performance, visitors can try their hand at eating completely in the dark, while being served by blind individuals at the on-site Black Out restaurant. Nalaga’at is also home to Café Kapish - run completely by deaf barristers who are experts at reading lips.

33.  Taste the sea at Manta Ray

What is it? Located directly on Tel Aviv's beachfront , you can literally inhale the sea's salty air and fresh seafood all at once.

Why go? The winning view and top-notch menu make Manta Ray one of the most popular restaurants in Tel Aviv . Enjoy a leisurely meal from breakfast to dinner and then head out for a dip.

Don’t miss: The Manta Ray kiosk has a limited menu, but allows beach goers who prefer to eat on the beach a nice lounging area or beach chairs even closer to the sea's glittering waves.

Check out our guide to the best of Jaffa:

The ultimate jaffa area guide.

With so much hustle and bustle going on in its White City neighbor, sometimes people forget the beautiful gem of Israeli culture that exists on the southern port. 

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Privacy policy
• Website terms of use
• Time Out Group
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies

Time Out products

• Mobile applications
• Time Out travel
• Time Out worldwide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Ben Gurion Airport Guide
• Driving in Israel
• Reasons to Visit Israel
• Top Destinations
• One-Week Itinerary
• Best Israel Tours
• Top Things to Do in Israel
• Best Beaches
• Best National Parks
• Outdoor Markets
• How to Visit the Dead Sea
• Food to Try in Israel
• Things to Do in Jerusalem
• Top Sacred Sites
• Guide to the Western Wall
• Best Restaurants
• Tel Aviv Nightlife
• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations
• Africa & Middle East

The 19 Best Things to Do in Israel

Getty Images

Israel is a democratic bastion of art, technology, and creativity in the Middle East. With a history that goes back thousands of years, the country is a place of major importance to three major world religions, which is reflected in epic archaeological and historic landmarks. Plus, Israel’s natural beauty and varied terrain means plenty of outdoor attractions and activities, while the culture offers tons of experiences, from food markets to architecture tours to art museums and more.

Here are the top things to do on a visit to Israel.

Swim in the Mediterranean Sea

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Israel is blessed with dozens of stunning beaches, especially along its Mediterranean coast. From Tel Aviv’s lively city beaches to pristine spots off the beaten path like Palmachim and Dror Habonim, pretty much any part of Israel’s slice of the Mediterranean makes for incredible swimming and sunbathing. Most beaches have lifeguards and facilities, but be sure to check before you go.

Meander Through Jerusalem’s Old City

Jerusalem ’s Old City is less than half of a square mile, but it holds thousands of years of history, going back to Biblical times. Today it is divided into four quarters: Muslim, Christian, Armenian, and Jewish. It is home to some of what are considered by several religions to be the holiest places in the world, including the Temple Mount, the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. But it’s also a place where people live and work, and the small area is filled with marketplaces, restaurants, stores, museums, synagogues, mosques, churches, and more. It’s a fascinating place to wander through, and it’s also possible to walk along the top of the walls on the ramparts.

See the White City

Lio Mizrahi/Getty Images

Tel Aviv has the largest collection of Bauhaus-style buildings in the world, with about 4,000 of those buildings found in one area. Built around the 1930s by architects and designers who came to Israel from Germany (where the style originated), these buildings have been preserved and protected. The White City was declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 2003, and today there are various tours around the White City (check out Eager Tourist ) as well as several museums that explore the architecture movement in Tel Aviv, like Bauhaus Museum at 21 Bialik Street, the Bauhaus Foundation , and the Bauhaus Center .

Float in the Dead Sea

If it’s your first time in Israel, a face-up float in the salty Dead Sea is a must-do. Located 85 miles south of Jerusalem, just above the Negev desert, the briny water appears like a beautiful mirage. The lowest point on Earth, the water is so salt-filled that everything automatically floats to the top—including humans—and it’s a fascinating phenomenon to experience. While you’ll probably only want to stay in the water for a few minutes (especially if you have any cuts or sores), you can also smear the mineral-rich mud on your skin for an impromptu mud mask treatment. There are various hotels and resorts surrounding the sea.

Dance in a Tel Aviv Club

Uriel Sinai/Getty Images

The vibrant city of Tel Aviv is known for its nightlife, and there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. If you like to dance, you’ll find no shortage of dance floors to hit, like The Block, Pasaz, Radio EPGB, Lima Lima, Buxa Bar, and Beit Maariv.

Sample Food in Jerusalem’s Machne Yehuda Market

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Israel’s outdoor markets , or shuks, are epic, and one of the best is Jerusalem’s massive Machane Yehuda. Try to visit on a Friday morning, when seemingly the entire city is out shopping before Shabbat starts at sundown. Be ready to stock up on the freshest produce, nuts, and spices you’ve ever seen. Come hungry so you can get your fill of fresh squeezed pomegranate juice, crispy falafel, flaky bourekas, tender lamb shawarma, and chocolaty rugelach.

Reflect at the Western Wall in Jerusalem’s Old City

Also known as the Wailing Wall (or in Hebrew, the Kotel) , this ancient limestone wall dates back to 19 BC. It is a small segment of a larger retaining wall that was built by King Herod around the Temple Mount, during the time of the Second Jewish Temple. Currently, the Wall is considered the holiest place where Jews can visit, and it is a pilgrimage site for many. When visiting, dress modestly and be prepared for men and women to approach the wall on different sides of a divider. One custom is to put folded up notes with prayers on them into the crevices of the wall. On Shabbat and Jewish holidays, the Wall is filled with people praying.

Climb to the Top of Masada

Getting up before sunrise to scale the top of Masada in the middle of the Negev desert is practically a rite of passage for every visitor to Israel. The climb itself is steep but not too long, or you can take a cable car. At the top you’ll discover the history of the storied rebellion against the Romans in 74 CE and witness one of the most beautiful sunrises in the world.

Snorkel or Dive in the Red Sea

Eilat, at the southern tip of the country by the Red Sea, has Israel’s only coral reef. One of the best dive sites is the Eilat Coral Beach Nature Reserve, while Dolphin Reef is a great place to snorkel or dive with dolphins. The Red Sea is also home to colorful coral, scorpionfish, lionfish, clownfish, and more than 1,200 other fish species, as well as several shipwrecks like the Satil. There are various dive centers around Eilat—including Tzlilut Dive Center, Red Sea Lucky Divers, and Israel Dive—that can help with gear, PADI certification, and guides.

Stand Under a Waterfall in Ein Gedi Reserve

This desert nature reserve right near the Dead Sea is Israel’s largest oasis and also one of its most popular hiking spots. The area is a lush sanctuary of greenery with beautiful springs, streams, pools, and waterfalls to cool off in. In the summer, expect throngs of tourists crowding the waterfalls, but come spring or fall, you might have one all to yourself.

Eat a Falafel

Israel has come a long way from roadside falafel stands; with a food scene as excellent as Tel Aviv 's, it's a legitimate foodie capital of the world. That said, you should still eat a falafel or three during your trip. While you can find them almost anywhere, the best ones are usually from small, hole-in-the-wall spots, and yes, roadside stands. The shuk, or outdoor market, is usually a good bet for a tasty one. And don’t forget to load on the toppings—salads, tehina, hummus, fried eggplant, and French fries!

Explore Tel Aviv's Old City and Its Port

While Jerusalem’s Old City is on most people’s Israel bucket lists, Tel Aviv’s walled Old City, called Jaffa, doesn’t always make the cut—but it should. Jaffa is one of the few multicultural places in Israel, with Jews, Muslims, and Christians living side by side. Meandering through Jaffa’s narrow streets, you’ll find galleries, top-notch restaurants, and lively bars interspersed between ancient stone walls and gates. Jaffa is also home to what is considered the world’s oldest port at about 4,000 years old. In recent years, it has become home to seaside restaurants, a food hall, and artists studios. It’s one of the best places to watch the sunset, too.

Visit the Israel Museum

Located in Jerusalem, the Israel Museum is the country’s premier museum. It features hundreds of incredible archeological finds from the region, including the famous Dead Sea Scrolls, as well as ancient and modern art from Israel and around the world. There is also a lovely outdoor sculpture garden and excellent children’s programming. At another location is the enchanting Ticho House , a historic home that was once the home of artist Anna Ticho. Today, it is home to various galleries and one of the best restaurants in Jerusalem.

Ogle the Baha’i Gardens in Haifa

 TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Also known as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa, these incredible terraced gardens surround the Shrine of the Báb on Mount Carmel in the northern city of Haifa. The Baha'i Gardens are one of the holiest places for the Baha’i faith and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Designed by Iranian architect Fariborz Sahba, they feature nine concentric circles and 18 terraces leading up to the shrine. Marvel at the gardens from the top near the shrine before walking down the terraces to the bottom for another gorgeous view.

Hike in the Negev and Aravah Valley

Bordered by the lush Aravah Valley on its eastern side, the 4,700-square-mile Negev desert covers more than half of the entire country of Israel. While the region may seem inhospitable at first, it’s actually home to varied flora and fauna. Incredible geological formations can be found here, including three different craters and multiple canyons, the most famous being Machtesh Ramon. There are endless hikes in this region worth trekking along, but before you embark on one, make sure you are well versed in the area and are properly equipped. A guide might be a good bet as the conditions (hot and dry with a possibility of flash floods in winter) can be harsh if you’re unprepared. Some top hikes in the Negev and Aravah include the Red Canyon, Timna Park, Ein Avdat National Park, Ein Saharonim (inside Machtesh Ramon), and Pura Nature Reserve.

Bike Around the Sea of Galilee

The Sea of Galilee, known in Hebrew as Yam Kinneret, is the lowest freshwater lake in the world. It’s located in the northeast part of Israel, between the Galilee and the Golan Heights in the Jordan Valley. It’s also believed to be the Biblical site in the New Testament where Jesus walked on water and performed other miracles. The lake is about 33 miles in circumference, making it an ideal distance for an extended bike ride. The Kinneret Trail, which is about 75 percent complete as of now, makes it easy to bike or walk around the lake.

Eat Fresh Fish in Acre

An ancient port city dating back to the Bronze Age, Acre (also known as Akko), is considered one of the holiest cities in the Baha’I faith. The walled Old City is a UNESCO Heritage Site and filled with fascinating surprises like ancient tunnels, gates, citadels, and more. There are many stunning vantage points overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, which means one thing: fresh fish! One of Israel’s best restaurants, Uri Buri , located in the gorgeous Efendi Hotel, is renowned for its incredible fish and seafood dishes. Look out for chef owner Uri Jeremias—he’s the one with the long, white beard.

Visit Wineries in the Golan

Lior Mizrahi/Getty Images

Israel’s far north, known as the Golan Heights, is home to stunning scenery, wonderful nature reserves, and several excellent wineries. The Golan Heights Winery , which opened in 1983, is often credited with Israel’s wine revolution, bringing modern techniques to Israel for the first time and putting the country on the world’s radar as a winemaking destination. Visitors can tour the winery, vineyards, and cellars and have a tasting. Other Golan wineries worth visiting include Pelter Winery , Assaf Winery , Ortal Winery , and Galileo Winery .

Walk Through the City of David and the Tower of David Museum

If you’re an archaeology buff, the City of David , just outside Jerusalem’s Old City walls, is a must-see. It is considered to be a city that was once captured by King David, the king of the Israelites in the Biblical narrative. Today it is one of the most extensively excavated sites in the country, and there are findings dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages. Some of the remains worth seeing include Hezekiah’s water tunnels (which you can splash through) and the Siloam Pool. Be aware that the area, in the West Bank, is disputed politically by some and is also home to the Palestinian Arab neighborhood of Wadi Hilweh just outside the ruins. On an opposite corner of the Old City stands the Tower of David museum, located inside an ancient citadel. The museum tells the story of David’s time and also has an impressive sound and light show on the stone walls at night.

Related Articles

More related articles.

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

25 Famous landmarks in Israel

There are many things Israel is famous for , some quite amazing and others… not so great. In this post, we will set aside the political things and want to explore famous landmarks. Israel is a beautiful country with an incredible diversity of wonderful landscapes, including lakes, beaches, coral reefs, deserts, craters, and hills.

Israel is also known for its history, culture, religious background, and monuments and ruins. There are significant religious landmarks (Jewish, Christian, Muslim), Roman ruins, templar fortresses, defensive walls, and ancient cities.

The diversity of things to do and see when visiting Israel is astonishing for such a small country. For this reason, we invited a few other bloggers to pitch in their favorite landmarks in Israel and make this post as complete as possible.

Without further ado, let’s explore the 25 most famous Israeli Landmarks !

Page Contents

Famous landmarks in Jerusalem

#1 the dome of the rock in jerusalem.

By Stéphanie from Bey Of Travel

When traveling through  Israel , visiting The Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem cannot be missed. It will take you less than an hour to get from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem by train.

Jerusalem is known as the most religious city in the world. Christians, Jews, and Muslims live together in the old city. While wandering through the narrow, magical streets of the city, the golden dome of the Dome of the Rock will immediately catch your eye. 

The rock over which the shrine was built is sacred to Muslims and Jews. Although it is not a mosque, it is the first major Muslim monument for public worship. It was built in the late 7th century by Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan. 

Verses from the Quran are inscribed on all the walls inside the building. Abraham wanted to sacrifice his son on this sacred ground, and Mohammed went to heaven. This landmark in Israel is definitely a must-see for those interested in religion and history. Make sure to wear appropriate clothing and be deterred by the army standing at the heavily guarded building.

You can visit the Dome of the Rock on a Jerusalem guided tour like this one

#2 City Walls Of Jerusalem

By Karen Warren from WorldWideWriter 

The ancient walls surrounding the old city of Jerusalem are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses the city and its role in three major world religions. The walls (or ramparts) are also important to Jerusalem’s history. What you see today was built by Ottoman rulers in the 16 th century, replacing earlier Jewish and Roman fortifications. The intention in each case was to keep out unwelcome intruders – wild animals as well as human attackers.

The Jerusalem Ramparts is a solid stone structure with eight gates and several watchtowers. Tourists can pass through seven gates, but the eighth is permanently bricked up. This is the Golden Gate, which has religious significance for each of Jerusalem’s religions.

The best way to explore the city walls is via the Jerusalem Ramparts Walk . This is in two sections (a small part of the wall is inaccessible and can only be viewed from the outside). 

Each part of the walk starts at the Jaffa Gate and takes you to the top of the walls. The Ramparts Walk gives you a different perspective on the old city and tends to be less crowded than the city itself.

You can visit the Walls on a Jerusalem guided tour like this one

#3 The Western Wall, Jerusalem

By Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel

The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall, is one of the most significant historic sites for the Jewish faith. It is one of the last remaining walls surrounding the Temple Mount and is the site of Jerusalem’s First and Second Temples.

King Herod built the Western Wall in 20 BC during the expansion of the Second Temple. The Romans destroyed this temple in 70 AD, but the wall survived.

Thousands of people pilgrimage to the Western Wall each year to pray. Some people also write their prayers on small pieces of paper and put them in the stone’s cracks.

While the Western Wall is a religious site, you do not need to be religious to appreciate its significance. It is free for all people to enter and open all year long. Please note: no photos are allowed during Shabbat, which is Saturdays. Also, when visiting, men and women should  dress modestly .

The Western Wall is located in the Old City of Jerusalem. Many hotels in Jerusalem are within walking distance from The Western Wall. It is also possible to take a day trip from Tel Aviv to the Western Wall. 

You can visit the Western Wall on a Jerusalem guided tour like this one

#4 Mahane Yehuda Market

By Ben Holbrook from Driftwood Journals

Mahane Yehuda Market, or “The Shuk” as it’s affectionately known, dates back to Ottoman times and is  Jerusalem ’s largest and most colorful market. Open every day (other than Saturdays) from 8 am, its warren of 250+ stalls positively throngs with locals stocking up on Israeli delicacies and uber-fresh produce. Feast your eyes on mounds of perfect pastries and freshly-baked bread, and scoop your way through overflowing bags of herbs, nuts, and tahini so tangy you won’t resist.

The proud stallholders readily offer samples, and your shekels will most certainly go a long way. Pick up some baklava to enjoy as you wander, or pull up a stool at one of the little market restaurants for a hearty breakfast or lunch. Azura serves a blend of Tunisian, Kurdish, Iraqi, and Sephardic dishes, and you’d be remiss not to try their famous kubbeh soup or weighty Magadra (meatballs).

Be sure to pop by after dark to see the aisles morph into makeshift restaurants that echo the sounds of happy diners and live music. In fact, you could easily spend an entire day and night here and still want more!

#5 Church of the Holy Sepulchre

By Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting

One of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in the entire Holy Land is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Because reaching the church requires navigating turn after turn in a maze of ancient city streets, a knowledgeable tour guide or group best visits this incredible landmark of Israel.

The site is located in the Old City of Jerusalem and can be reached from Tel Aviv in just under an hour, depending on traffic. Many visitors book a Jerusalem tour from Tel Aviv or other cities in Israel, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is always a part of the experience. 

Part of the location’s importance is due to the two sites within. The first is near the entrance atop an ornate staircase. It ascends the ancient hill of Golgotha, on which Jesus Christ was crucified. For visitors following the cross stations or Via Dolorosa stations, this is the final station of the experience. 

The second area of significance is the tomb where Christ’s body was laid buried. For believers of Christian teachings, it’s the site from which Jesus Christ was resurrected. It attracts long lines of religious pilgrims and faith tourists.

You can visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on a guided tour like this

#6 City of David

The city of David is an archaeological site considered the original settlement of Bronze and Iron Age Jerusalem. The site is speculated to be the birthplace of Jerusalém, and it contains archaeological findings from the Solomon’s Temple period until the Ottoman period.

The archeological exploration of the City of David began in the 19th century and continues to this day. On the archaeological site, you can visit the Royal Acropolis – remnants of homes from the Biblical Period; Gihon Spring, and the two Pools of Siloam – ancient pools where the Gihon Spring flows into the city of David; Siloam Tunnel- an underground water system. The entrance tickets cost 65 NIS for adults.

The coolest part of the archeological site is the Siloam Tunnel, as you can walk through it, where water flows from the Gihon Spring into the Pool of Siloam, 533 meters later. The site is scorching hot, so we advise you to visit when the sun is low.

You can easily visit the city of David on a guided tour

#7 Mount of Olives

Mount of Olives is a mountain hill overlooking Jerusalem’s old city. Once covered with olive trees, these mountains have an important religious significance for Jews and Christians.

There are several biblical references to the Mount of Olives as it used to be the place where Jesus used to preach. It is also the site where it is believed Jesus ascended to heaven after being resurrected. On the other hand, the southern ridge of the Mount has been used as a cemetery for the Jews for over 3,000 years, being the oldest continually used cemetery in the world.

Along the mountain, there are several important churches, Augusta Victoria Hospital, Chapel of the Ascension, Church of the Pater Noster, Church of Dominus Flevit, Russian Orthodox Church of Mary Magdalene, Church of all Nations, Tomb of the Virgin Mary, plus other important monuments.

Even if you aren’t religious, a visit to the Mount of Olives is well worth it. From the peak of the mount, you have breathtaking views of Jerusalem’s old city.

The Mount of Olives is included in many Jerusalem tours

Humanmade and Historical Landmarks in Israel

#8 jaffa port, tel aviv.

Jaffa (or Yafo) is the oldest part of Tel Aviv, located in the southern part of the Tel Aviv-Yafo metropolis. Jaffa Port is said to be the oldest port in the world, with archeological evidence and documents pointing to being used for about 7000 years now, predating Jewish, Christians, Muslims, and even Egyptians. Biblically, It is also set to be the port where Jonah (from the Jonah and the Whale story) sailed away.

Jaffa Port was neglected for a long part of the 20th century, but it was renovated recently, becoming a small fishing harbor, a yacht harbor, and a major tourist destination. Today it is a great place to be, offering various things to do from bookstores to theaters and delicious food, including some amazing fresh fish and seafood restaurants.

Jaffa Port is very easy to reach from Tel Aviv’s wonderful beaches; you only need to walk south along the boardwalk till reaching the Port. The views are breathtaking, and we suggest going in the late afternoon to enjoy the lovely sunsets.

#9 Shuk HaCarmel in Tel Aviv

By Rachel Shulman from East To West

Shuk HaCarmel (Carmel Market) is possibly the largest and most well-known landmark in Tel Aviv , Israel. No visitor can come to Tel Aviv without visiting the Shuk. Shuk HaCarmel was created in the early 1920s and has evolved extensively while keeping its local natural roots (and awnings and booths). It is one of the most important historical landmarks in Tel Aviv’s city development.

This is the market where you can find everything from typical tourist souvenirs to locals in their everyday life shopping for their produce and organic goods, eating falafel, and drinking within. It by far has the lowest prices and best product since it comes straight from the farms. There are also a ton of home goods, clothing booths, and more stores. Anything you can think of can be found in the Shuk, which sees thousands of visitors daily.

The Shuk is very non-luxurious, and you see quintessential Israelis in their habitat here – negotiating, yelling at each other, and drinking together. The Shuk is located right in the center of Tel Aviv, making it highly accessible to all as well as free to enter. You can enter the Shuk at the Allenby, Sheinkin, and King George streets crossroads.

#10 The Walls of Akko

Located in northern Israel, only a few km north of Haifa, Akko (or Acre) is one of the oldest continuously-inhabited human settlements. The initial walls were built in the 10th century and were expanded, wrecked, fortified, attacked, and refortified several times by Muslims, Crusaders, Ottomans, and Mamluks. Today, the old town of Akko is encircled by its walls – a sea wall to the west, south, and southeast, and by ramparts.

The current walls and the dry moat on the north side were built mainly between 1750 and 1840 by Zahir al-Umar by Jazzar Pasha and survived Napoleon’s siege. The final walls are double, massive walls equipped with broad, powerful watchtowers. Furthermore, they had heavy cannons to enhance the city’s protection.

While traveling to Akre , it’s possible and advisable to walk along the city walls (both land and sea) to see their mighty defensive power. It guarantees wonderful views of the old town, the port, and the surroundings.

You can visit Akko on a day trip from Tel-Aviv or from Jerusalem . The tours to Akko usually also include other landmarks in northern Israel, like Caesarea, Haifa, and Rosh Hanikra.

#11 Hospitaller fortress of Akko

Akko has been a significant town for a long time, but its major glory days were during the Crusades when it was the most important pilgrim port, and it even became the capital of the Crusader kingdom after the loss of Jerusalem. During these times, the Hospitallers were military and monastic orders who cared for the sick and maintained the safety of the pilgrims to the holy sites.

Together with the walls, the hospitaller fortress is the most iconic landmark in Akko. It’s a huge building that served as the headquarters of the mighty hospitallers. Restored in recent years, this monumental fortress has three floors surrounding a central courtyard with 1200 m 2 . Besides the courtyard, some of the most impressive rooms include the Knights’ Hall and the Dining Hall, considered great examples of Gothic architecture of the medieval crusader period.

Visiting this fortress takes you back in time and is a pleasant way of learning about the Crusaders’ period. The old city of Acre has been a UNESCO heritage site since 2001, including the Hospitallers fortress and the city walls.

#12 The Baha’i Gardens in Haifa

By Adi Ben Ezer from Adiseesworld

The stunning Baha’i Gardens, located in Israel’s northern city of Haifa, is a  definite must-see ; whether you are visiting Haifa or just passing through the city on your way to the north of the country.

Circa 95 kilometers (or one and a quarter hours’ drive) north of Tel Aviv, they stretch from the Lower City to the summit of Mount Carmel, providing a beautiful panoramic view of the region.

This impressive UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its distinctive design, is the most sacred site to Baha’i people around the world. It is where the administrative affairs of the religion occur, with hundreds of thousands of people visiting it a year.

It includes magnificent carefully pruned symmetrical gardens and 19 terraces along the mountain slopes. In the gardens, you will also not be able to miss the (real) gold-domed Shrine of the Bab and the tomb of Siyyad Ali Muhammed.

The buildings are built in a Neoclassical style. They aim to provide all who visit them with a sense of peace and harmony – values the Baha’is hopes to promote worldwide. Work on the gardens began by Iranian architect Fariborz Sahba in 1987. The garden terraces were officially opened to the public in 2001. 

You can visit Haifa on a day trip from Tel-Aviv or from Jerusalem . The tours to Haifa usually also include other landmarks on the Israeli coast, like Caesarea, Akko and Rosh Hanikra.

#13 Basilica of the Annunciation, Nazareth

The Basilica of Annunciation or the Church of Annunciation is the catholic church built in Nazareth, in northern Israel. It’s about 1h30 minutes from Tel Aviv and 45 minutes from Haifa. According to Catholic tradition, the church was built in the house where Angel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary and announced that she would bear God’s Son, Jesus. Thus the name, Church of Annunciation.

There have been several churches built and destroyed on the same site. The Byzantines built the initial church, supposedly commissioned by Emperor Constantine I. The second church was built over the ruins of the Byzantine church during the Crusades. For centuries a small chapter was built, rebuilt, and expanded by Franciscans. Finally, in 1954 the old church was completely demolished to allow the construction of today’s basilica, designed by architect Giovanni Muzio.

This Basilica is massive and impressive, with churches. The lower church contains the Grotto of the Annunciation, believed to be Mary’s original childhood home, while the upper church is the parish church for Nazareth’s Catholic community. The cupola with a lantern symbolizes the light of the world. Around the upper church walls and on the exterior are colorful and beautiful Virgin Mary illustrations with diverse materials (mostly mosaics and ceramic tiles). Various countries presented these representations, and it’s fascinating to see the different ways Virgin Mary is perceived in each country.

#14 Caesarea

By Miriam from Miry Giramondo

Caesarea is a small town overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and is easily accessible from Tel Aviv and Haifa. Not far from the center, there is an important and extensive archaeological park very interesting to visit called  Caesarea Marittima National Park . This is one of Israel’s most important and impressive archaeological sites.

The history of Caesarea’s origins goes back to 2000 years ago when Herod the Great built a large port that could hold about 300 ships around, which soon developed into a lively town. The center remained administered by the Roman Empire first and then by the Byzantine Empire but was destroyed and abandoned in the 13th century.

Today inside the park, you can see the Roman ruins, the Hippodrome (where the spectators would come to see the gladiators), the Reef Palace, the Bath Complex, the mosaic floors, and the most beautiful work in front of the sea: the Herodian Amphitheatre. It was a 10,000-seat hippodrome where slaves and prisoners battled wild animals, and chariots careened around a U-shaped track, you could climb to the top and have a beautiful view. Beautiful beaches surround the ancient city ruins.

Within the park, there are several bars and restaurants. The entrance to the site costs 39 NIS and is open daily from 8-16.

You can visit the Sea of Galilee on a day trip from Tel-Aviv or from Jerusalem . The tours usually also include a visit to Nazareth.

By Bella from   Passport & Pixels

Situated high on a rocky mountaintop close to the Dead Sea, Masada is an incredible ancient stone fortress that towers 1,300 feet (400 meters) above the surrounding plain.

Meaning “strong foundation or support” in Hebrew, the ruins at Masada were once part of the ancient kingdom of Israel. The castle complex was built in 30 BCE by King Herod of Judea (of the Biblical killing babies fame). The Romans occupied the region in the first century AD and destroyed Jerusalem. In response, a group of Jewish rebels occupied Masada to defend themselves against the invaders. This led to the famous siege of Masada: in the year 72, a legion of 8,000 Romans attacked the castle, surrounding it and building a siege ramp so they could get inside. When the 960 defenders realized they were about to be overcome, almost all took their own lives rather than submit to Roman rule.   

Today Masada is a UNESCO world heritage site and is widely considered one of Israel’s greatest archaeological treasures. You can get to Masada by bus or car or on a guided tour from either Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. A popular way to see it is to go in time to see the sunrise over the Moab Mountains and the Dead Sea. Access to the top is either by cable car or walk up the Snake Path, a steep ascent that takes about 60-90 minutes and is best completed early in the morning before it gets too hot.

You can also visit Masada on a guided tour from Jerusalem or Tel-Aviv . It is typically visited on the same tour as Ein Gedi and the Dead Sea.

#16 The ancient Nabatean and Roman city of Shivta

Shivta by Corinne Vail of Reflections Enroute

One of Israel’s most surprisingly interesting sites is the ancient Nabatean and Roman city of Shivta. Located directly on the incense trade route between Yemen and China, it is one of the incense cities of the Negev that provided a much-needed stopover for the caravans. The most sought-after products were the spices of Frankincense and Myrrh. Harnessing the little water in the arid Negev Desert, Shivta became an oasis where merchants stopped, rested, ate, fed their animals, and prepared for the next leg of their journey. The city was built over 2,000 years ago and remains largely intact since it was never conquered or destroyed. 

Today, the National Parks System is the city’s caretaker. There are plenty of buildings to visit as well as the deepwater cistern. Some things to see are the oil presses, noble’s houses, Byzantine churches, a mosque, and even the town pools. Walking the streets makes it easy to imagine the ancient people plying their wares. If you are not on tour, renting a car and driving is the best way to get to Shivta. It takes about two hours from either Tel Aviv or Jerusalem on the Yitzhak Rabin Highway and Route 40.

#17 Nimrod’s Fortress

Ashley Jansen of  Jetset Jansen

Nimrod’s Fortress is where you’ll find the ruins of Israel’s largest medieval castle. It was named after Nimrod, who was a warrior from biblical times. The structure dates all the way back to the Middle Ages and was built on top of a hill overlooking the Golan Heights. This landmark is a little harder to reach, as it’s located in the very north of Israel, near the Lebanon border.

It was strategically built in the 13th century to have a view of the road and the surrounding area. The castle was originally a smaller structure built quickly because of the potential threats of the Crusader army. Eventually, it was renovated and expanded upon.

There are many points of interest to explore while here. The castle ruins consist of several towers, archways, and rooms. You’ll find a large reservoir near the Southwest Tower. You can also explore the ‘Beautiful Tower,’ a round room with a stone ceiling. Nimrod’s Fortress is also where you can find the largest inscription found in Israel.

It’s a great place to explore and learn more about the area’s history. But perhaps the best part of the fortress is the forested hills and the valley’s view below. 

Natural Landmarks in Israel

#18 dead sea.

The Dead Sea is one of the most famous natural landmarks in Israel and the world. It is a landlocked salt lake bordering Jordan to the east, the West Bank (north), and Israel to the west (South). The main tributary to the Dead Sea is the Jordan River, which comes from the north.

Besides its obvious beauty and historical and religious importance, the Dead Sea is famous for its high salinity levels and its location below sea level. Unfortunately, the lake is receding, as its surface area is about 600 km2, while it was more than 1000 km2 in 1930.

The surface and shores of the Dead Sea are 430.5 meters below sea level, making it the lowest altitude globally on land. It is quite a feeling to start descending to the lake and see all the signs indicating you are 100, 200, 300, and 400 meters below sea level. Looking to the top of mountains, thinking those places are way below sea level.

Finally, the Dead Sea is also one of the world’s saltiest water bodies, with a salinity of 34%, or almost ten times saltier than the ocean. This characteristic makes swimming almost impossible, as you cannot avoid floating. The images of people reading a newspaper or magazine while on the water are also hugely famous. These extreme salinity levels also make life barely impossible in the lake, which explains why there aren’t animals or plants in the lake. Thus, its name.

You can also visit the Dea Sea on a guided tour from Jerusalem or Tel-Aviv . It is typically visited on the same tour as Ein Gedi and Masada.

#19 Eilat coral reef

The Eilat coral reef is located in the Red Sea, at the southern tip of Israel. It is the only coral reef in Israel and the northernmost coral reef in the world. Despite being a tiny reef, with only about 1.2 kilometers and thus very fragile, it contains a diversity of habitats, together creating a complex and diverse ecosystem. The good news is that it’s been growing since the marine reserve was created in recent years.

The Gulf of Eilat’s reefs offer an opportunity to explore the wonderful and colorful world of sea corals, tropical fish, and other sea creatures. It’s very easy to go to the beach and snorkel or dive directly from there, which is why it has become such a popular destination lately. You don’t even need to have snorkeling equipment as they rent it.

At the southernmost point of the reserve, very close to the border with Egipt, you can find the Coral World Underwater Observatory, the largest public aquarium in the Middle East, which allows you to observe marine life without getting wet. It’s pretty cool!

A cool way of enjoying the coral reef in Eilat is doing a boat tour with a glass bottom boat.

#20 Red Canyon

The Red Canyon is one of Israel’s most beautiful natural landmarks. It is a gorge of red sandstone rock created by water that only exists after heavy rain. As rain in the desert is extremely rare, the canyon is almost always accessible.

The canyon’s name comes from its color intensifying when the sunlight hits the reddish rock, irradiating an intense red color. Besides its vibrant colors, the best part of the canyon is walking inside the narrow canyon. There are two trails: the green trail, a short 2 km circular family-friendly trail, and the black trail, which is 9 km long and more challenging.

The green trail is enjoyable to do, and we recommend it. It has metal bars, ladders, and footholds on the rocks that help you climb or descend the canyon. It is quite magical. But it can easily be done, even with children.

The Red Canyon is close to Eilat, 20 km North of Eilat, near the border with Egypt – it is easy to reach from there.

The Red Canyon can also be visited from Eilat on a guided tour .

#21 Timna Park

By Veronika Primm from Travel Geekery

Timna Park can be found in Israel’s South, only 25 km North of Eilat, the country’s southernmost city. You can drive or take a local tour to get there from Eilat. Using a public bus to get closer is possible, but you’ll still need to walk for about an hour.

The park belongs to  Eilat’s top natural parks  and encloses a large valley with rich deposits of copper. It is, in fact, the first copper-mining site in the world – Egyptians mined copper here already in 5,000 BC. You can learn about the beginnings of copper processing in a fascinating video and observe the remnants of smelting furnaces on-site.

Timna Park looks like out of this world – you easily feel like you’ve landed on Mars. The reddish rock creates amazing formations. Don’t miss the famous mushroom rock and the majestic Solomon’s Pillars. It’s incredible what water and erosion can create.

Apart from simply walking around and admiring the otherworldly landscape, you can also visit a man-made oasis, where there are a few more things to do – e.g., go on a paddleboat on the small lake or create your own little artwork with colored sand in a small bottle (included in the ticket price).

While Timna Park is not a UNESCO site yet, it is currently on the organization’s Tentative List.

You can easily visit Timna on a day trip from beautiful Eilat .

#22 Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

By Or from My Path in the World

If there’s one natural landmark in Israel you definitely can’t miss, it’s the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve. Israel’s biggest oasis is a fantastic spot for hiking, wildlife watching, and admiring some of the country’s most scenic views. Since it’s located near the Dead Sea (not too far from Jerusalem), the most convenient way to get to the reserve is by car, and luckily, the parking is free.

Several hiking trails in the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, including Wadi David and Wadi Arugot, can be adjusted to your preferred difficulty level and the distance you want to cover.

Though the reserve is open all year round, the best time to visit Ein Gedi is  spring . It’s when the weather is pleasant enough to hike, daylight hours are getting longer, all the streams and waterfalls are flowing, the unique rocky cliffs look particularly impressive, and there’s a good chance you’ll see some animals like rock hyrax and ibex (a species of a wild mountain goat).

You can also visit the Ein Gedi Antiquities National Park right next to the reserve, which houses an ancient synagogue from the 6th century with an impressive mosaic floor. The entrance fee to the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, including the synagogue, is 28 NIS.

You can also visit Ein Gedi on a guided tour from Jerusalem or Tel-Aviv . It is typically visited on the same tour as Masada and the Dead Sea.

#23 Mount Arbel

By Claudia Tavani from My Adventures Across The World

Located in Galilee’s region, in Arbel National Park, Mount Arbel is one of the most famous mountains in Israel, known for the sweeping views of the Sea of Galilee you can get from the top. It’s a lesser-visited place, so you can be sure to have it to yourself when going. 

On the other hand, for incredible views of Mount Arbel, make sure to visit Moshav Arbel, a small village where you will find the ruins of one of the oldest synagogues in Israel. 

The fee to visit Arbel National Park is 22 Israeli Shekels – around USD 7.

You can get to Mount Arbel comfortably by car – there is lots of parking on the site. But if you are feeling intrepid, you may want to walk the entire length of the  Jesus Trail , a long-distance hike that can be covered in no less than four days and that follows the footsteps of Jesus across Galilee, going from Nazareth all the way to Tiberias and the villages around the Sea of Galilee. 

#24 The Sea of Galilee

By Daphna Bar from a tiny trip

The Sea of Galilee, the Kinneret in Hebrew, is a freshwater lake in northern Israel. The most famous village by the Sea of Galilee is Capernaum (Kfar Nahum). This is where Jesus went to live after leaving Nazareth and where he performed many of his miracles, including walking on water. 

At the southern tip of the Sea of Galilee, where the water flows into the Jordan River, John the Baptist baptized Jesus. Now called “Yardenit,” it is set up with ramps and stairs so you can easily enter the water yourself. The entrance is free of charge. 

Tiberias is the largest city near the Sea of Galilee, where you can visit natural hot springs and experience spa treatments. You can also rent bicycles or go hiking on the Kinneret Trail.  

Located roughly 210 meters below sea level, the Sea of Galilee area can get very hot in the summer. It is no surprise that many people enjoy bathing in the Kinneret. There are many access points to the shoreline, some regulated with water sports and boat rentals and others completely quiet and serene. Whenever you visit, though, the Sea of Galilee is definitely one of the best day trips in Israel!

#25 Ramon Crater

By Moshe Huberman from The Top Ten Traveler

The craters of south Israel are a unique landscape that cannot be found anywhere else in the world, making them one of the most interesting places to visit in Israel . While meteors or volcanic eruptions created other craters around the world, the craters of Israel were created by rivers carving the soft rock of the desert for millions of years.

There are three craters in the Negev desert; the largest is Ramon Crater (Machtesh in Hebrew). It is 40 km long, 2-10 km wide, 500 meters deep, and shaped like an elongated heart, going from east to west. The closest big city to Ramon Crater is Be’er Sheva (85 km to the north), while Tel Aviv and Jerusalem are about 2.5 hours away by car.

The entrance to the crater is through the visitor center in the nearby town of Mitzpe Ramon, on the northern edge of the crater. The views from here are astounding, and you can learn about the area’s history and how the crater was created. 

Inside the crater, there are several trails to explore, and you can also visit the site of the colored sand. If lucky, you might see endangered vultures flying above or spot other animals like Ibex, Gazelles, wolves, and foxes. There’s a camping site in place for those who want to spend the night under the desert sky. Alternatively, you can find other accommodation options in Mitzpe Ramon. 

The desert views and colors are magnificent, and when combined with a unique geological phenomenon, the experience is definitely one to remember!

Looking for even more info about traveling to Israel ? Have a look at these posts:

• 50 things you need to know before traveling to Israel;
• What is Israel famous for?
• Things to do in Akko;
• Best day trips from Tel Aviv;
• Jerusalem in Winter;

Pin it for later

Sharing is caring!

• 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.

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

Subscribe to This Week Unpacked

More on this

Why are Israelis fighting over an Oct. 7th memorial?

What are president biden’s views on israel, how did israel become a tech powerhouse, unraveling the complexity: a guide to palestinian governing groups, meet 669: the idf’s elite airborne evacuation and rescue unit.

Topics in this article

Jazzie Morgan

Stay in the know and feel smarter about all things jewish.

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

The 11 Best Things to See and Do in Israel

Home to incredible historical and religious sites, the mineral-rich Dead Sea (which is also the lowest point on Earth), a lively nightlife, and a world-class food scene, Israel has a lot to offer visiting travelers.

Though a small country that doesn’t take too long to drive around , there’s just SO much on offer that you could still easily spend weeks here and not run out of amazing sights to see, activities to do, and delicious food to eat.

To help you get started planning your trip, here’s a list of what I consider to be some of the best things to see and do in Israel:  

1. Tel Aviv

While the city has a lot to offer (including 13 beaches), one of the major draws is the food. The culinary scene is full of inventive eateries using fresh, organic ingredients and mixing traditional Israeli cuisine with tastes from around the world, reflecting the many ethnicities that make up the country’s population. There’s even a huge number of vegan options too (Israel is an incredible destination for vegetarian and vegan travelers). You can also stroll the stalls at the Carmel Market and the Levinsky Market for tasty local street food.

Tel Aviv also has a nightlife that would rival New York or London . For a night out, you can find rooftop bars, wine bars, and craft beer breweries all over town. In particular, check out venues lining Rothschild Boulevard. Also, there’s a strong music scene with tons of live concerts happening around town (in all genres) as well as a world-class philharmonic orchestra. There’s lots of great theatre here too!

During the day, visit any of dozens of museums, including the popular Yitzhak Rabin Center, the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, or the Museum of the Jewish People. Tel Aviv also has many informative and insightful walking tour companies to help you learn more about the city’s past, its people, its street art, and its architecture (Tel Aviv’s Bauhaus structures, “the White City,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site). New Europe is the best free walking tour in town (just be sure to tip).

And don’t miss the ancient port of Jaffa (home to a large flea market, an artists quarter, fine restaurants, a mixed population of Arabs and Jews, and great views of Tel Aviv).  

2. The Dead Sea

Unfortunately, it also means that if you have any cuts on your body, you will feel them keenly! Additionally, industrial exploitation has shrunk the shoreline and caused sinkholes in some areas, so beware of that and pay attention to any signage.

The salt and other minerals (like magnesium and bromide) have historically been thought of as healing, which is why there are tons of health retreats lining the shore. While many beaches are only accessible through a resort, there are also several public ones along the coast, including Neve Midbar in the north and Ein Bokek in the south.  

3. Jerusalem

The walled Old City, not to mention nearby Mount Zion and the City of David (the original site of Jerusalem), include so many famous and significant sites that you could easily spend several days touring them.

For Jews, the Western Wall (formerly called the Wailing Wall) is considered the holiest place for prayer. It is divided into men’s and women’s sections, and there are tunnels on one side that can be explored.

The Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount (just above the Western Wall) are among the holiest sites for Muslims, behind only Mecca and Medina.

For Christians, the Via Dolorosa and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Old City mark the path of Jesus’s final walk to his execution and the site of his crucifixion.

In the western, newer section of Jerusalem, be sure to visit Yad Vashem, the deeply emotional official memorial for the six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust. There’s also the Israel Museum, which is home to the Dead Sea Scrolls and other treasures of Israel’s past.

For an insightful overview of the city, take a walking tour or food tour. There’s the Machane Yehuda market tour , and Abraham Tours (which also runs an amazing hostel) organizes daily walking tours highlighting Jerusalem’s past from different (and often competing) perspectives.  

4. Biblical Sites

Galilee is home to a number of Christian sites, including Nazareth, where you’ll find the largest church in the Middle East; and the Jesus Trail or the Gospel Trail, hikes from Nazareth to the Sea of Galilee — which is also home to numerous sites of Christian interest, such as Capernaum, Tabgha (where Jesus fed people loaves and fishes), Cana, and the Mount of Beatitudes (the supposed location of the Sermon on the Mount).

Known as the birthplace of Jesus, Bethlehem is a must-visit destination. Be sure to visit the Church of the Nativity, one of the most important Christian sites (ostensibly where Jesus was born) and also one of the world’s oldest operating churches (it opened in 333 CE).

Near Jericho, you’ll find Qasr el Yahud on the Jordan River, said to be the place where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist, and the Monastery of St George, a cliff-hanging complex carved into a sheer rock wall in the Judean Desert.  

5. The Negev Desert

The Negev Desert covers the southern half of Israel and spans over 13,000 square kilometers, taking up 55% of the entire country. It’s a starkly beautiful place. For the best views, visit the Florence and George Wise Observatory near Mitzpe Ramon. Also, don’t miss Timna Park in the far south (near Eilat), which has incredible geological formations: huge sandstone pillars and sand of many colors. There’s also an annual hot air balloon festival held there each autumn.

The Negev is full of all kinds of adventure activities, too, from sandboarding in the dunes in the north to rappelling off the cliffs of the Ramon Crater. If you don’t have a car, you’ll find no shortage of tour companies to take you around.  

6. Masada National Park and Fortress

There’s a cable car up to the fortress, but an alternative is to hike up the Snake Path, a 60-90-minute hike offering views of the arid landscape, the Dead Sea, and Jordan. Just be aware that it can be really hot in summer (it’s a desert after all), and sometimes authorities close the path if the weather is too hot. (Bring lots of water.) It’s better (and cooler) to ascend before dawn and see the sunrise over Jordan from the trail or the summit.

Open daily from 8am until 3pm-5pm. Admission to the park is $9 USD. You can reach the park in about 90 minutes from Jerusalem by car.  

7. Dive Israel’s Reefs and Wrecks

\\ Israel borders the Mediterranean Sea and has a short coastline on the Red Sea — both of which offer world-class snorkeling and scuba diving. Some of the best spots on the Red Sea, where you can see incredible coral and sea life, include Coral Reef Beach, Migdalor Beach, and Princess Beach.

For scuba divers, the water deepens very quickly off Eilat, so you can do deep-water diving without needing to use a boat to get further from the shore. (Those who don’t wish to go in the water can visit the Underwater Observatory Marine Park.)

On the Mediterranean coast, divers can explore shipwrecks and ancient Roman ruins at the Underwater Archaeological Park at Caesarea.  

8. Israel’s Lesser-Known Archaeological Sites

In fact, there are more than 300 excavations active in Israel, which means that there are new discoveries being made all the time. Here are some of the best lesser-known sites:

• Megiddo – Located southeast of Haifa, this was once a fortified city, with its origins going back to around 3000 BCE. The Hebrew name “Har Megiddo” (Mount Megiddo) became in Greek “Armageddon,” as this is the supposed site of the end-times battle. Today, the ruins host an excellent and informative museum that sheds light on the area and its sprawling history.
• Templars’ Tunnel in Akko – This secret tunnel was built by the medieval Templars at their fortress in Akko (Acre) in the 13th century. It stretches 150m and was only discovered in 1994. The site is accessible to the public, which means you can actually explore the tunnel yourself.
• Beit She’an – This Biblical site dates back to the 6th century BCE and is home to beautiful and well-preserved Roman ruins, including bathhouses, a theater, column-lined streets, and much more. It was the Roman capital of northern Israel and is one of the largest archaeological sites in the world.
• Beit Guvrin-Maresha – Located in Beit Guvrin-Maresha National Park (near Kiryat Gat), this Roman ruin was known as Eleutheropolis during the Roman and Byzantine eras. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to a Jewish cemetery, an amphitheater, and a Byzantine church. You can also find the ruins of public baths and burial caves here as well.
• Herodium National Park – Located just outside of Jerusalem, this fortress built into a hill rivals the more popular Masada yet sees a fraction of the visitors. Here you’ll find palatial ruins, underground tunnels, secret caves, lookout points offering beautiful views, and the famous tomb of Herod the Great.

As for the more well-known Caesarea National Park, it’s located just 30 minutes by car south of Haifa. As one of the country’s biggest archaeological sites, it’s home to Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader cities. It’s famous for its Roman aqueduct, hippodrome, and amphitheater (a great place to see a concert), plus there is a public beach and shopping nearby.  

9. Learn About Gaza (and the West Bank)

While you can’t easily visit Gaza, it’s just 71 km (44 miles) from Tel Aviv, and there are several border tours you can take to learn more about the ongoing conflict. Abraham Tours runs “dual-narrative” tours of Gaza that offer insight into the complex history of the conflict (they also run tours about the West Bank).

Additionally, Green Olive Tours, a joint Israeli-Palestinian company, offers tons of insightful single and multiday tours around Gaza and the West Bank as well.

And these are some reputable NGOs that work in Gaza that you can reach out to:

• Palestinian Circus School
• Medical Aid for Palestinians
• The Freedom Theatre

You could easily spend a few days just seeing the highlights. Don’t miss the UNESCO World Heritage Baha’i Gardens in the city center, a beautiful terraced garden that is home to the golden-domed Baha’i Shrine of the Báb. For an amazing view, take the cable car up Mount Carmel to the Stella Maris Carmelite Monastery. The ride is just five minutes and costs 35 ILS ($10 USD) (round-trip). You’ll be rewarded with a picture-perfect view of Haifa and the Mediterranean.

You can also base yourself in Haifa while taking day trips to Nazareth, Megiddo, or other destinations in Galilee or along the coast.  

11. Visit a Kibbutz

A kibbutz is a collective community typically centered around a particular job or workplace. They started back in 1910 and were originally centered around collective agriculture. The concept spread rapidly, and today there are still nearly 300 across the country. Many are open to visits from tourists who are looking for a more unique travel experience. Here are some of the most popular kibbutzim if you’re looking to learn more:

• Kibbutz Ein Gev – Located on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, this is one of the biggest kibbutzim in the country. It’s home to a beachside resort open to visitors, as well as several agricultural operations (including dairy farming and a banana plantation). Over 600 people live in the kibbutz, and you can take a short train tour through it to learn more or book a stay at its holiday resort. The tours last 30 minutes and cost 16 ILS (under $5 USD).
• Kibbutz Degania Alef – Established in 1910, this was Israel’s first kibbutz. It is home to over 500 people, who all work in the community’s factories, farms, or service industries. There are also two small museums in the community that shed light on its history and development, as well as some historical buildings you can visit to learn more (you’ll need to book your museum visits in advance).
• Kibbutz Ein Gedi – Located on the Dead Sea, this kibbutz is famous for its botanical garden, which spans almost 25 acres and is home to over 900 species of plants. Founded in 1953, the kibbutz is home to just over 600 people and is focused on agriculture and tourism. Free tours are available daily in English and Hebrew.

Whether you are interested in religious history, are curious about archaeology, or just want to spend time outdoors hiking, diving, and snorkeling, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Israel . It’s truly a world-class destination for laid-back vacationers, foodies, and intrepid backpackers looking to get off the beaten trail.

No matter what you’re looking for, Israel won’t disappoint.

Book Your Trip to Israel: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner or Momondo to find a cheap flight. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned. Start with Skyscanner first though because they have the biggest reach!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

• Florentine Backpackers Hostel (Tel Aviv)
• Abraham Hostel (Jerusalem)
• Haifa Hostel (Haifa)

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

GET YOUR  FREE TRAVEL STARTER KIT

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

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 .

• Middle East
• Top 10 Places To Visit...

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.

Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our premium small-group tours to discover the world like never before.

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.

Hike through the Red Canyon

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.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,200 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

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.

The Best Places to Visit in Northern Israel

Top Places in Jerusalem for Architecture Lovers

Reasons Why You Should Visit Israel at Least Once in Your Lifetime

The Most Unique Experiences You Can Have in Israel

A Guide to Visiting Masada National Park, Israel

The Best Spa and Wellness Hotels to Book Near the Dead Sea

The Story Behind Jerusalem's Sealed Golden Gate

The Best Road Trips to Take in Israel

Dishes Worth Travelling to Israel For

Things to Know Before Visiting the Dead Sea

Must-Visit Attractions in Israel

Israel's Best Unesco World Heritage Sites

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,200 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 376498
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

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

Share this post:

17 Top Things to Do in Jerusalem

10 Top Tourist Attractions in Venezuela

10 Most Beautiful Islands in Africa

9 Facts about Mount Yasur

A Guide to Climbing Santa Ana Volcano in El Salvador

23 Most Beautiful Islands in Asia

Discover the Hvalsey Church in Greenland

21 Best Places to Visit in South America

8 Best Mozambique Beach Resorts

15 Best Things to Do in the Seychelles

Reader interactions.

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Israel in Pictures: 19 Beautiful Places to Photograph

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated Mar 30, 2022

When it comes to photogenic destinations, Israel is certainly near the top of the world list. This tiny Middle Eastern country is filled with an incredible range of photographic environments, from the ancient alleyways of Jerusalem to the Martian-like landscapes of the Negev Desert.

Israel offers a wide range of photo subjects, from the history of places like the Old City of Jerusalem to the ruins of ancient towns like Avdat and Caesaria. There is modern beauty here as well – the resort beachfront of Tel Aviv and its modern skyscrapers serve as perfect subjects for photographers.

The Western Wall

The dome of the rock, the dead sea, makhtesh ramon, ein gedi nature reserve, church of the holy sepulchre, pool of the arches, hulda sunflower fields, be'er tuvia buttercup festival.

A holy place for Muslims, Jews, and Christians, Jerusalem is a fascinating place to visit and photograph. A good perspective of the walled Old City and the Temple Mount can be seen from atop the Mount of Olives. The observation area is known as the Gandhi Overlook and allows a wide perspective of the entire city skyline, old and new.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jerusalem

Believed to be the last remaining part of the sacred Jewish temple complex referred to in the Bible, this site is a pilgrimage site for those of the Jewish faith. If you climb up the stairs to some of the terraces of the building complex opposite the Wall, you can get a wide perspective of the entire site, including the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount above.

Visible from its prominent position atop the Haram al-Sharif (Temple Mount), this Islamic shrine is known as a place of worship and for its geographic religious significance. Visually and architecturally, it's a beautiful building with an incredible golden dome, one of the oldest, existing examples of Islamic architecture in the world.

The lowest land point on Earth , the shore of the Dead Sea is part resort, part health clinic, and all geologic wonder. There's a row of resorts on the Israeli shore and more resorts on the Jordanian shore across the sea. The flat, smooth shimmering water along with the striking colors, caused by mineral deposits, make for great photographs. The land around the Dead Sea is also beautiful, filled with towers and other geologic forms, much uncovered as the water level has declined.

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

This mountaintop fortress continues to hold a prominent place in the hearts of Israelis and Jewish people. It was the site of a legendary uprising and siege during the time of Ancient Rome. Today, it's one of Israel's biggest tourist attractions , about a 90-minute drive from Jerusalem.

You can get some good, overall perspectives from the highway, Route 90, as you approach the huge site. Once at the top of the mountain, there are epic vistas in every direction.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Masada

The ancient Nabateans are best known for their incredible rock city of Petra carved in a canyon in Jordan. Their network of incense trading routes extended through modern-day Israel, and the town of Avdat was an important stop on that trade route between Petra and the Mediterranean. You can visit the Avdat ruins, which include a Nabatean temple and an ancient Byzantine church.

The impact of King Herod can still be seen across Israel (Masada was constructed under his rule). Herodium is the ruin of his ancient hilltop palace/fortress, built into the top of a mountain he had constructed.

There are two parts to the complex: the underground palace structure at the top of the hill, which includes a theater, various rooms, and huge cisterns to store water, as well as a lower pleasure complex. The lower complex includes a large pool and bathing area, surrounded by columns. Herodium is about 12 kilometers south of Jerusalem.

Israel's largest city is a modern metropolis. There are some incredible opportunities for architectural photography here, as the city is filled with incredible buildings. There are some beautiful modern skyscrapers, as well as a huge collection of Bauhaus architecture from the 1920s-1940s. The city sits on a long, curving stretch of beachfront, and there are also some great photo opportunities there.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tel Aviv

Caesarea is an Ancient Roman Mediterranean seaport on the northern Israeli coast. It was the capital of what was then the Roman province of Judea and retains many ruins and structures from the era. The remains of the Roman port exist, as does a large amphitheater. The dramatic seaside location makes for great photography with the blue Mediterranean Sea in the background.

Jaffa is the Old City seafront area of Tel Aviv. It's the original city, dating back thousands of years, and modern Tel Aviv has grown around it. The area retains ancient alleyways and buildings along with a beautiful seafront and harbor area.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Jaffa

For some incredible photographs, head to one of Israel's makhteshes. These are giant semi-spherical zones of erosion, first thought to be volcanoes or meteorite craters. Makhtesh Ramon is the core of the Ramon Nature Reserve, which includes the surrounding landscape. The giant crater-shaped landform is 40 kilometers long and two to 10 kilometers wide with a depth of almost 500 meters. You can hike in the makhtesh but the best way to see and photograph it is to take a jeep tour.

This national park is an oasis in the Judean Desert, located near the Dead Sea and Masada. Ein Gedi has its own unique ecosystem due to its natural water sources. It's one of the country's most popular hiking spots and gives visitors a chance to take some great wildlife photographs. The reserve includes many animal inhabitants who are quite used to visitors.

The highlight is a tall waterfall, falling into a pond of clear water (swimming is allowed). The entire setting is within a rock canyon. Also, you can get some great photos of the Dead Sea from some of the hiking trails along the mountaintop.

This sacred Christian church rewards visitors with a deeply spiritual experience due to its religious significance. Outside, the ancient architecture of the church is a great place for photographs. Inside, the dome and dark-colored marble make great subjects for available light shots.

Some areas of the church are lit by candlelight. The church is part of Jerusalem's Old City and the Via Dolorosa.

• Read More: Exploring the Church of the Holy Sepulchre: A Visitor's Guide

This southern Israeli city is a resort town on the Red Sea. It's a popular diving destination and has some incredibly clear, blue water. It's a great place for beach and nature photography and one of the best places in the world for underwater photography. There are underwater trails, marked by buoys, that take divers (and snorkelers) through fish-filled coral reefs.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Eilat

Israel's third largest city is a Mediterranean port on the northern coast of the country. The city is at the base of Mount Carmel, and many areas offer amazing views of the sea. Haifa is home to the Shrine of the Bab, a center of the Bahai faith, and its spectacular hanging gardens of terraces with Greco-Roman buildings, columns, and statues.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Haifa

This massive underground cistern, built to store water, was constructed in 789. It's so big, you can tour it by rowboat. The rows and rows of arches and other medieval and Islamic design elements make it a great spot for photos. It's in Ramla, a suburb of Tel Aviv.

This place for photos is best visited between mid-May and mid-June, when the fields of yellow sunflowers are in bloom. The fields are part of the Hulda kibbutz (communal farm) in central Israel.

Another flower-related place to photograph in Israel is the town of Be'er Tuvia and their annual buttercup festival. The festival happens every weekend in April, until the bloom stops. You will see vast rows of yellow, pink, red, and white buttercups.

It's open to the public on weekends and holidays; arrive early for some private time to get the best photos.

This beautiful gorge near Eilat has canyons with tall, rounded walls. The colors are striking; many are deep shades of red. It's a great place for nature and outdoor photos. The canyon is easy to hike, making it easy to access for many photographers.

More on Israel