tourism facts israel

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Travel and tourism in Israel - statistics & facts

Impact of the coronavirus (covid-19), economic contribution of the tourism industry, diverse tourist sights, key insights.

Detailed statistics

International visitors in Israel 2016-2022

Number of departures abroad of Israeli citizens from Israel 2014-2022

Number of tourist hotels in Israel 2014-2021

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

Destinations

Number of visitors to the U.S. from Israel 2011-2022

Share of the GDP of the tourism sector in Israel 2013-2028

Further recommended statistics

Inbound tourism.

• Basic Statistic International visitors in Israel 2016-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of international tourist arrivals in Israel 2015-2029
• Basic Statistic Tourist arrivals in Israel 2021, by age group
• Basic Statistic Number of tourists from Europe in Israel 2022, by country of citizenship
• Basic Statistic Number of tourists from Asia in Israel 2022, by country of citizenship
• Basic Statistic Number of tourists from the United States in Israel 2018-2022
• Basic Statistic Passengers in cruises in Israel 2014-2022

International visitors in Israel from 2016 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of international tourist arrivals in Israel 2015-2029

Number of international tourist arrivals in Israel from 2015 to 2029 (in millions)

Tourist arrivals in Israel 2021, by age group

Number of tourist arrivals in Israel in 2021, by age group (in 1,000s)

Number of tourists from Europe in Israel 2022, by country of citizenship

Number of European tourists in Israel in 2022, by country of citizenship (in 1,000s)

Number of tourists from Asia in Israel 2022, by country of citizenship

Number of tourists from Asia in Israel as of 2022, by country of citizenship (in 1,000s)

Number of tourists from the United States in Israel 2018-2022

Number of tourists from the United States in Israel from 2018 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Passengers in cruises in Israel 2014-2022

Number of cruise passengers in Israel from 2014 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Outbound tourism

• Basic Statistic Number of departures abroad of Israeli citizens from Israel 2014-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of Israelis aged 20-24 years traveling abroad 2015-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of Israelis aged 0-19 years traveling abroad 2015-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of Israelis aged 25-59 years traveling abroad 2015-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of Israelis aged 60-64 years traveling abroad 2015-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of Israelis aged 65 years and older traveling abroad 2015-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of visitors to the U.S. from Israel 2011-2022

Number of departures abroad of Israeli citizens from Israel from 2014 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of Israelis aged 20-24 years traveling abroad 2015-2022

Number of Israelis aged 20-24 years traveling abroad from 2015 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of Israelis aged 0-19 years traveling abroad 2015-2022

Number of Israelis aged 0-19 years traveling abroad from 2015 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of Israelis aged 25-59 years traveling abroad 2015-2022

Number of Israelis aged 25-59 years traveling abroad from 2015 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of Israelis aged 60-64 years traveling abroad 2015-2022

Number of Israelis aged 60-64 years traveling abroad from 2015 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of Israelis aged 65 years and older traveling abroad 2015-2022

Number of Israelis aged 65 years and older traveling abroad from 2015 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of visitors to the United States from Israel from 2011 to 2022

• Basic Statistic International air traffic of passengers in Israel 2022
• Basic Statistic International air traffic of passengers with Israeli airlines in Israel 2022
• Basic Statistic Revenue of El Al Airlines in Israel 2021-2022
• Basic Statistic International air traffic of passengers with airlines from the US in Israel 2022
• Basic Statistic International air traffic of passengers with German airlines in Israel 2022
• Basic Statistic International air traffic of passengers with French airlines in Israel 2022
• Basic Statistic International air traffic of passengers with Spanish airlines in Israel 2022

International air traffic of passengers in Israel 2022

International air traffic of passengers in Israel from January to June 2022 (in 1,000s)

International air traffic of passengers with Israeli airlines in Israel 2022

International air traffic of passengers with Israeli airlines in Israel from January to June 2022 (in 1,000s)

Revenue of El Al Airlines in Israel 2021-2022

Revenue of El Al Airlines in Israel in 2nd quarter 2021 and 2nd quarter 2022 (in million U.S. dollars)

International air traffic of passengers with airlines from the US in Israel 2022

International air traffic of passengers with airlines from the United States (US) in Israel from January to June 2022 (in 1,000s)

International air traffic of passengers with German airlines in Israel 2022

International air traffic of passengers with German airlines in Israel from January to June 2022 (in 1,000s)

International air traffic of passengers with French airlines in Israel 2022

International air traffic of passengers with French airlines in Israel from January to June 2022 (in 1,000s)

International air traffic of passengers with Spanish airlines in Israel 2022

International air traffic of passengers with Spanish airlines in Israel from January to June 2022 (in 1,000s)

Economic contribution and tourism expenditure

• Premium Statistic Share of the GDP of the tourism sector in Israel 2013-2028
• Premium Statistic Absolute economic contribution of tourism in Israel 2014-2029
• Premium Statistic Expenditure on international tourism in Israel 2014-2029
• Premium Statistic Expenditure per capita on international tourism in Israel 2001-2029
• Premium Statistic International tourism receipts per capita in Israel 2001-2029

Share of the GDP of the tourism sector in Israel from 2013 to 2028

Absolute economic contribution of tourism in Israel 2014-2029

Absolute economic contribution of tourism in Israel from 2014 to 2029 (in million U.S. dollars)

Expenditure on international tourism in Israel 2014-2029

Expenditure on international tourism in Israel from 2014 to 2029 (in million U.S. dollars)

Expenditure per capita on international tourism in Israel 2001-2029

Expenditure per capita on international tourism in Israel from 2001 to 2029 (in U.S. dollars)

International tourism receipts per capita in Israel 2001-2029

International tourism receipts per capita in Israel from 2001 to 2029 (in U.S. dollars)

Accommodations

• Basic Statistic Number of tourist hotels in Israel 2014-2021
• Basic Statistic Number of tourist hotels in Israel 2021, by district
• Basic Statistic Number of foreign guests in tourist hotels in Israel 2014-2021
• Basic Statistic Number of Israeli guests in tourist hotels in Israel 2014-2021
• Basic Statistic Number of rural tourism guest rooms in Israel 2014-2021
• Basic Statistic Total revenue of hotel services in Israel 2014-2021
• Basic Statistic Occupancy rate of bed places in hotels in Israel 2017-2022
• Basic Statistic Occupancy rate of rooms in hotels in Tel Aviv in Israel 2014-2022

Number of tourist hotels in Israel from 2014 to 2021

Number of tourist hotels in Israel 2021, by district

Number of tourist hotels in Israel in 2021, by district

Number of foreign guests in tourist hotels in Israel 2014-2021

Number of foreign guests in tourist hotels in Israel from 2014 to 2021 (in 1,000s)

Number of Israeli guests in tourist hotels in Israel 2014-2021

Number of Israeli guests in tourist hotels in Israel from 2014 to 2021 (in 1,000s)

Number of rural tourism guest rooms in Israel 2014-2021

Number of rural tourism guest rooms in Israel from 2014 to 2021

Total revenue of hotel services in Israel 2014-2021

Total revenue of hotel services in Israel from 2014 to 2021 (in million Israeli shekels)

Occupancy rate of bed places in hotels in Israel 2017-2022

Occupancy rate of bed places in hotels in Israel from 2017 to 2022

Occupancy rate of rooms in hotels in Tel Aviv in Israel 2014-2022

Occupancy rate of rooms in hotels in Tel Aviv in Israel from 2014 to 2022

National parks

• Basic Statistic Number of visits to historical sites in Israel 2017-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of visits to historical sites in Israel 2022, by district
• Basic Statistic Number of visits to recreation sites in Israel 2017-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of visits to recreation sites in Israel 2022, by district

Number of visits to historical sites in Israel 2017-2022

Number of visits to historical sites in Israel from 2017 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of visits to historical sites in Israel 2022, by district

Number of visits to historical sites in Israel in 2022, by district (in 1,000s)

Number of visits to recreation sites in Israel 2017-2022

Number of visits to recreation sites in Israel from 2017 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of visits to recreation sites in Israel 2022, by district

Number of visits to recreation sites in Israel in 2022, by district (in 1,000s)

Popular tourist sights

• Basic Statistic Number of visits to Caesarea in Israel 2019-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of visits to En Gedi in Israel 2019-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of visits to the Banias springs in Israel 2019-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of visits to Zippori in Israel 2019-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of visits to Palmahim in Israel 2019-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of visits to the Mizpe Ramon Visitors Center in Israel 2019-2022

Number of visits to Caesarea in Israel 2019-2022

Number of visits to Caesarea in Israel from 2019 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of visits to En Gedi in Israel 2019-2022

Number of visits to En Gedi in Israel from 2019 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of visits to the Banias springs in Israel 2019-2022

Number of visits to the Banias springs in Israel from 2019 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of visits to Zippori in Israel 2019-2022

Number of visits to Zippori in Israel from 2019 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of visits to Palmahim in Israel 2019-2022

Number of visits to Palmahim in Israel from 2019 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of visits to the Mizpe Ramon Visitors Center in Israel 2019-2022

Number of visits to the Mizpe Ramon Visitors Center in Israel from 2019 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Further reports

Get the best reports to understand your industry.

Mon - Fri, 9am - 6pm (EST)

Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm (SGT)

Mon - Fri, 10:00am - 6:00pm (JST)

Mon - Fri, 9:30am - 5pm (GMT)

78 Facts about Israel (Travelers and Expats) Food, Attractions, Culture, Photos…

Thinking about a trip to Israel? In this post, you’ll learn 78 facts about Israel, including attractions, beaches, food, politics, population, wildlife, and much more. Plus tons of photos and videos.

78 Facts About Israel

If you’re thinking of traveling to Israel, you’ll need some Israel facts.

Moving or traveling requires some knowledge, so here are 78 important facts about Israel to help you be respectful and make the most of your time there.

Basic Facts About Israel

1. what is israel’s official name.

The official name of Israel is “ Medinat Yisra’el ” or internationally, The State of Israel .

It’s known informally as simply Israel by most international entities and “Yisra’el” in Hebrew.

2. What is Israel’s population?

Israel has a steadily growing population despite tensions in the area and is currently home to around 8.6 million people as of 2017. That number includes a variety of ethnicities and languages.

This doesn’t include communities in some disputed areas such as the West Bank. As Israel’s borders with former Palestine continue to fluctuate, we could see population increases or reductions. Also, Jews from around the world continue to relocate to their ancestral homeland.

3. Where is Israel located?

Geographically, Israel is part of the continent of Asia, bordering Jordan to the east and Lebanon to the north.

Syria also shares a northeast border, and Egypt is located to the southeast. For some, Israel also shares a long border with the former country of Palestine although this is in dispute for many.

Map of Israel

4. What time is it in Israel?

Israel’s time zone is GMT +2 , seven hours ahead of the United States Eastern Time Zone and two hours ahead of London.

Israel observes Daylight Savings Time just like the United States but with a slightly different period from March 29 to October 27.

5. When does the sun set in Israel?

During the regular time, the sun sets roughly around 5:30 pm give or take 15 minutes.

Daylight Savings Time sets that time ahead by about an hour, and during the longest part of the year, the sun sets well after 7:00 pm.

6. What are citizens of Israel known as?

Citizens from Israel are known as Israelis .

Those of Jewish distinction making up 75 percent of the population followed by Arabic descent at 20 percent and other minorities making up the final five percent.

7. What is the capital of Israel?

Jerusalem is the official capital of Israel following the conquest of East Jerusalem and the extension of the municipal boundary in 1967.

However, because Israel’s official control is under dispute, Tel Aviv is the unofficial capital, functioning as the financial center as well as the center of politics and international relations. With the United States moving the embassy to Jerusalem recently, this distinction could change.

Street View in Jerusalem Israel

8. What is the life expectancy in Israel?

Israelis have a higher overall life expectancy than the United States with an average lifespan of 84 years as of 2016.

9. What religions are in Israel?

Israel is the only country in the world in which the majority of citizens are Jewish .

However, this isn’t the only religious identity with some citizens of Arabic descent following Islam . Around two percent of the population identifies as Christian and around four percent are defined as other.

10. Common misspellings of Israel

Many people switch the “a” and “e” to form: Isreal.

Another common misspelling of the people is “Isareli” which is also usually corrected quickly.

Facts about Israel Travel

11. how’s the weather in israel.

The weather in Israel is good year round, with wonderfully mild winters and hot but dry summers.

Winter months are filled with storms and can be unpredictable from day to day, but most consider them still good times to visit.

The best months could be May and October , which many consider not too hot and not too cold.

12. What is the best time to visit Israel?

Again, May and October usually host the best weather and not too many tourists.

These months are more predictable in terms of storms and rain and have a cooler temperature than deep summer. Aside from a few high holy days, it’s a really convenient time to travel.

13. What is Israel’s currency?

The New Shekel is Israel’s current form of currency in a nod to the ancient currency. A shekel is divided into 100 agora.

It’s worth about a fifth of a US dollar although that fluctuates from time to time.

The New Shekel has been in used since January 1, 1986, when it replaced the old shekel at a ratio of 1000:1.

14. Do I need a power adapter when I visit Israel?

Yes, you’ll need a converter if you’re traveling from Canada or United States. Israel uses 23oV.

An adapter like this will step down 220V t0 110V devices.

Israel has three styles of plugs, so you’ll need something that will cover each one. Their official current is 230 which can ruin devices from the United States and Canada.

15. What plugs are used in Israel?

The plugs are M, H, and C plugs. C plugs have two round holes. H plugs have three pins in a triangular shape, and M plugs have three circular holes.

This three pack plug adapter set should cover you on your trip. Just remember that these don’t change the voltage (see above) – they only allow you to physically plug in.

If you are going on an extended trip, you might consider buying your devices there.

16. What are Israel’s international airports?

Israel has 14 different airports with Ben Gurion probably occupying the most famous spot. As you can tell in the following stats, almost all visitors arrive via TLV airport.

Here are the three international airports in Israel.

• Eliat-Ramon (ETM) 1,424,098 Passengers in 2014
• Haifa-U. Michaeli (HFA) 119,113 Passengers in 2016
• Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion (TLV) 20,781,226 Passengers in 2017

You can find airports to take you straight into many of Israel’s biggest hubs with smaller airports in between to make travel safe and more convenient than traveling overland routes.

17. What languages are spoken in Israel?

Israel has several language groups with Hebrew being the most common and Arabic coming in second place.

Other smaller language groups include English in diplomatic circles, Russian, Yiddish, and ten percent of the language groups falling into the “other category.

18. How many tourists visit Israel every year?

Tourism is a significant source of revenue in Israel with nearly 3.6 million visitors coming into the country in 2017. Many are making ancestral pilgrimages from several religious traditions.

19. What are Israel’s most popular landmarks?

• Jaffa is the oldest port city and features beautiful ocean views.
• The Sea of Galilee holds significance for many religious adherents.
• The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is one of the most sacred sites in Christendom.
• The Mount of Olives offers breathtaking views of some of the regions oldest occupied lands.
• The Dome of the Rock is the site of either the ascension of Mohammed or the location of the Holy of Holies of Herod’s temple.
• The Western Wall is the only standing portion of Herod’s temple.
• Yad Vashem remembers those who died in the Holocaust.

20. Is Israel a safe place to visit?

Israel is the site of continuing conflict over the rightful owner of certain areas. Although this conflict is ongoing, the city is safe for most visitors as long as visitors understand the conflict and pay attention to what’s going on.

The closer you get to the Gaza strip, the more significant the threat of attack. Stay alert and pay attention to your country’s issued warnings.

This is a somewhat controversial question. With those who don’t travel, assuming that it isn’t safe because of past conflicts. The following video highlights some of the highlights of a trip there, by a young travel couple.

21. What are Israel’s 10 best beaches?

Israel may be a religious pilgrimage for many, but don’t forget the sand and sun!

Tel Aviv has some beautiful beaches, but others along the Red Sea and the Dead Sea also offer excellent options.

• Hilton Beach in Tel Aviv is one of the most popular
• Frishman offers views of Ben Gurion’s house.
• Banana Beach offers excellent waves.
• Gordon Beach is the king of tourist spots.
• Ajami in Jaffa is close to historical sites there.
• Metzitzim gives you soothing vibes for families.
• Palmachim is a quiet secret locals love.
• Dado Zamir in Haifa has amazing windsurfing and an art market.
• Dor Habonim in Haifa is the best place for beachside camping.
• Caesarea offers a view of a 2000-year-old aqueduct structure.

Although not traditional, a trip to the salty shores of the Dead Sea can be quite therapeutic.

22. What are the most famous events in Israel?

• During the Passover, the priests bless the western wall with a millennia-old prayer.
• If you love food, the Taste of Galilea food festival celebrates Israeli food in December
• Bethlehem is popular at Christmas
• Independence day is celebrated in April / May every year. It falls on 5 Iyar (Hebrew calendar)
• Haifa International Film Festival
• Sounds of the Old City music festival
• Red Sea Jazz Festival
• Rosh Hashanah

Geography Now! Israel Video

Geography in Israel

23. how large is israel.

Israel is 8,630 sq. miles (22,145 sq. km) or just slightly smaller than the state of New Jersey (22,591 sq. km).

24. What World Heritage Sites are in Israel?

There are 9 World Heritage Sites in Israel, all of which fall in the cultural category.

These include the following sites:

• Incense Route: Desert Cities in the Negev
• White City of Tel-Aviv
• Mount Carmel: The Nahal Me’arot / Wadi el-Mughara Caves
• Caves of Maresha and Bet-Guvrin in the Judean Lowlands
• Necropolis of Bet She’arim
• Old City of Acre
• Biblical Tels–Megiddo, Hazor, Beer Sheba
• Bahá’i Holy Places in Haifa and the Western Galilee

25. What is Israel’s largest city?

The largest city is unified Jerusalem, but even without the annexation of Eastern Jerusalem, West Jerusalem is still the largest city.

Jerusalem population (2018): 919,407

26. What are Israel’s major cities?

Major cities include the historic town of Jerusalem, the more modern cultural center of Tel Aviv. Historical cities include Haifa, Ashdod, and Petah Tikva.

• Rishon LeZion
• Petah Tikva

27. How many provinces in Israel?

There are 6 administrative provinces in Israel and 15 subdistricts.

Many information sites include districts as those under civilian control, including some contested areas that may not find their way into official international statistics (for example the district of East Jerusalem whose annexation is not recognized by the United Nations).

28. What is the highest elevation in Israel?

Mt. Hermon is the highest peak in Israel, reaching 7,336 feet.

It slopes down into Israel-occupied but contested territory. It’s currently the site of a ski resort.

29. Does Israel have a lot of mountains?

It has a very diverse geographic region with mountain ranges in the north, including Mt. Hermon in Golon, Meron and Ha’Ari in Galilee. The mountains in Israel are often the sight of religious festivals.

30. How many islands in Israel?

You may not think of islands when you think of Israel, but there are a few. It includes three different island groups plus a five stand alone islands.

• Rosh HaNikra Islands (3)
• Achziv Islands (3)
• Hof Dor Islands, Dor (4)
• Yonim Island, Ma’agan Michael
• Caesarea Islands, Caesarea
• Mikhmoret Rock, Mikhmoret
• Andromeda Rock, Jaffa. Near the entrance of Jaffa Port.
• Adam Rock, Bat Yam

31. What are the top 10 famous places in Israel?

• Nazareth: Often called the cradle of Christianity and is a predominately Arabic city
• Caesarea: Herod created this city in honor of Caesar Augustus.
• Haifa: the center of Bahai culture
• Tel Aviv: the most modern city
• The Dead Sea
• Masada: an old fortress
• Dome of the Rock: holy to both Jews and Muslims
• Via Dolorosa: the path to the cross for Christians
• The Western Wall
• Mount of Olives

32. How many national parks in Israel?

There are over 40 national parks in Israel, but 6 of the best ones to visit are:

• Caesarea National Park
• Ein Gedi National Park
• Masada National Park
• Mt Carmel National Park
• Gan HaShlosha National Park
• Beit Shean National Park

More about Israel’s national parks .

Politics of Israel

33. what type of government does israel have.

Israel has a democratic government first formed in 1948.

It has several political parties and continues to rule in spite of conflict in the region. Some of the disputed areas of Israeli occupation fall under this rule, and the legitimacy of the government is widely questioned in the Middle East while soundly supported by most in the West.

34. How stable is the current government?

The current government is very stable and continues to consolidate power to present a unified and strong front against Israel’s detractors. It continues to enjoy strong support from Israel’s community.

35. How many national political parties are in Israel?

There are 34 political parties within the Israeli Knesset (parliament), but only three parties have ever had ruling seats. However, political parties frequently coalesce to come to decisions and take action.

Business in Israel

36. what is israel’s largest export.

Israel has a complex economy with cut diamonds , technology equipment, and pharmaceuticals making up the majority of exports.

37. What Are Israel’s major exports?

Israel exports pesticides and refined petroleum in a wide range of commodities. Photo lab equipment and broadcasting equipment round out Israel’s technological sector.

38. What is the minimum wage in Israel?

Israeli workers in the lowest-paid sectors of the economy have a minimum wage of 5000 New Israeli Shekels per month. That’s about USD$1300 a month.

39. Who are Israel’s major trading partners?

Major trading partners include the United States, China, Belgium and Luxembourg, India, and Germany among others. These relationships form billions of dollars for the Israeli economy.

Food in Israel

40. what food is most popular in israel.

Foods like Hummus may have the top spot for the region, but there are several foods you have to try if you’re traveling through the area. Other options include shakshuka, falafel, and Lechem bread. Also, fusion cuisine is rising in popularity.

41. What kind of food is traditional in Israel?

Traditional foods are centered around chickpea but also lamb dishes and rice.

Falafel and hummus are some of the most recognizable dishes, but the cuisine of Israel can vary within homes depending on the ethnic background of the inhabitants.

42. What can you eat and drink in Israel?

There is a variety of cuisine in Israel based on both Jewish and Arabic traditional foods, but you can also enjoy cutting-edge cuisine that blends traditions from a variety of sources.

You can also find basic US-based foods if you look hard enough.

43. What is Israel’s national dish?

Although it doesn’t have an official national dish, many consider it to be falafel . This dish is ubiquitous, and you can find it on just about every street corner and restaurant as well as in many homes.

Other main dishes include fish and lamb. Because the Israeli diaspora brought Jews from all over the world back to their homeland, the cuisine mimics that experience.

44. What is a typical dinner in Israel?

Typical dinners include a salad of some sort plus fresh fish, which is readily available. Meats including lamb and chicken are also common. Israeli dinners are often combinations of cuisines brought from Jews all over the world.

45. What is the most popular drink in Israel?

Limonana , made from anise-based arak, is probably one of the best-known libations. It’s an Israeli concoction and a popular offering at clubs and nightclubs. Arak is a traditional beverage in the middle east, clear liquor with an anise-like flavor.

46. What do the locals eat for breakfast?

Israelis often eat eggs in dishes like shakshuka . Pastries are also typical, as are breakfast sandwiches in the form of “sabich.”

Labneh is also common as a mid-morning meal. Breakfasts tend to be simple and revolve around comfort foods and traditional foods from all over the world from the diaspora.

47. What food and drink is Israel famous for?

Arak, a clear liquor is one of the most famous alcoholic drinks in the region and falafel is the unofficial main dish of the area. Other dishes include hummus, which is another typical dish for the country.

48. What fruit is Israel famous for?

Israel is famous for the old olive groves, but it’s most common fruits are actually apples, plums, grapes, and peaches . There’s a thriving agricultural area in Israel with lots of fruits and vegetables.

49. What can you not eat in Israel?

Israel doesn’t have a lot of taboos, but if you eat in religious-based establishments, there could be foods that can’t be consumed during the times of the high holy days. Also, eating in Arabic establishments could have a few things that are taboo for Muslims. On the whole, there aren’t any hard taboos or restrictions on foods.

50. Can I drink the water in Israel?

Tap water is safe in Israel in all places except for the Dead Sea, which has water too tricky for people to consume. You should be completely fine while staying in Israel, although some may want bottled water for the taste.

Language in Israel

51. what are the official languages in israel.

Official languages in Israel include Hebrew , which is also the most widely spoken language. Until July 2018, Arabic was also an official language, but that’s no longer the case. However, for diplomacy, English is also a common language.

Thinking about learning a little Hebrew? This audio guide by Living Language should help.

Learn Hebrew in 25 Minutes

100 Beginners Hebrew Phrases

52. What language are road signs in Israel?

Road signs are typically in three different languages , Hebrew, Arabic, and English letters. While smaller cities may have a variation of that combination, most official signs are the three options.

Wildlife in Israel

53. what animals live in israel.

Israel has quite a few animal species because of its varied geography.

• The Arabian Oryx is unique in that it went extinct in the wild for some time, but conservation efforts were able to revive the species.
• The Sand Cat is an adorable predator that is the only one of its species to live in the desert.
• The Marbled Polecat is a striking animal resembling a Ferret but with strong color patterns across its head and neck.

54. What is Israel’s national animal?

The Hoopoe is the national animal of Israel. The bird species has a crown of feathers and a distinctive long beak.

The Hoopoe has three separate classes and one extinct class. There are many mentions of the Hoopoe in ancient literature of a variety of religious traditions, including a connection to King Solomon.

55. What dangerous animals are in Israel?

Israel doesn’t have a lot of large predators, but a few more dangerous animals could be scorpions and venomous snakes. Also, be careful of the predator cats in the area, but these are few and far between.

Most of the dangers come in the form of venomous insects that can pack quite a bite.

56. Are there any deadly spiders in Israel?

There are one or two species that can cause localized paralysis and excruciating pain if they bite you.

The Black Widow can cause a lot of pain and possible death if left untreated (in vulnerable hikers while the Mediterranean Recluse can cause necrosis of the tissue.

In rare cases, more severe symptoms can occur, but most reactions are merely symptomatic and leave no lasting effects if treated immediately.

Plant life in Israel

57. what is israel national flower.

At one point the cyclamen was elected the national flower of Israel, but a more extensive poll around 2014 saw the election of the colorful poppy anemone . It’s known locally as Kalanit .

58. What types of vegetation are common in Israel?

Israel has a varied geography with interesting vegetation. Nearly 3000 species have been identified, and while many of the more legendary forests have disappeared, the area still retains a variety of vegetation adapted to desert life, coastal life, and mountainous life.

59. What crops are grown in Israel?

Agriculture is highly developed, making Israel one of the leading exporters of things like fresh fruit.

Thanks to technology, Israel can grow a wide range of crops in a small space including fruits like citrus and avocados, important crops like cotton, and field crops like wheat and sorghum.

Grapes are also big crops because of the country’s interest in winemaking.

National Symbols of Israel

60. what is the symbol of israel.

Israel is the only country in the world with a majority Jewish population, so the national symbol is the Menorah .

The coat of arms displays this symbol because it’s widely recognized as one of the central pieces of Jewish culture.

61. What is the national tree of Israel?

The olive tree is the official tree due to the region’s long history with ancient and storied olive groves. The fig tree is considered the unofficial tree, however.

62. What is Israel’s national bird?

The national bird of Israel is the Hoopoe, species native to the area and displaying a distinctive crown of feathers. The bird performs unique positions to sunbathe, a motion long misunderstood by scientists.

63. What is Israel’s national animal?

The national bird is the same as the national animal with the Hoopoe winning a clear majority in a national poll designed to choose the national bird.

It’s native to the region and thought to have a long history with both Jewish populations and Arabic populations.

64. What is Israel’s national sport?

Israel doesn’t have an official national sport, but soccer is undoubtedly the most popular with basketball coming in second.

Israel has competed in the Olympics every year since the 1950s and has a long history of sports.

Culture in Israel

65. what are some of the different cultures in israel.

The majority of culture in Israel is Jewish with the establishment of the Jewish ancestral homeland in 1948.

However, the region is also home to Palestinian and Israeli Muslims of Arabic descent. Also, there are smaller populations of Orthodox Christians in the area and Bedouins moving through the deserts.

Although Israel is a cosmopolitan city, it does retain some of its older culture among the different populations. Some can’t be identified by dress alone, but in the older parts of the city, you may see the more traditional attire.

66. What is the population of Israel?

The population if Israel is 8.7 million people with that number on the rise. Some population estimates are disputed because of occupied territories still under contention from the larger world community.

67. Is Israel’s population increasing or decreasing?

As Jews continue to move to their ancestral homeland, the population continues to rise. It’s a slow, but steady increase.

68. How many immigrants live in Israel?

It’s difficult to assess the number because of the continuous conflict and occupation, but it’s estimated that around 300,000 people live in Israel under temporary work visas.

As immigrants continue to come into the country every day, official numbers depend on which entity you talk to.

69. Where do the immigrants in Israel come from?

Many are Jewish settlers coming in from around the world to settle in the only predominantly Jewish state.

Others are refugees from Africa and the middle east. Israel has a large working population comprised of people from Palestine and the Philippines.

The country has one of the most diverse and multicultural communities in the world because of its massive immigrant population over the generations.

Israel Immigration and Expat Facts

70. what is the best place to live in israel.

Tel Aviv, the unofficial capital, is home to one of the most significant populations in Israel and is a cosmopolitan city full of opportunity and thriving nightlife.

Eilat is popular with younger citizens who love the active life with plenty of outdoor sports and status as a top resort town.

Jerusalem holds some of Israel’s oldest architecture and famous historical sites. Many smaller settlements along the beaches also offer residents lots of benefits.

71. What are the requirements to live in Israel? How can I immigrate to Israel?

Immigrating to Israel is most common under the right of return given to those with Jewish roots.

Israel doesn’t have a robust immigration law, so becoming an immigrant requires sponsorship of some kind through a company or settling with family. Jews have a pathway to citizenship under Israel’s established homeland clauses.

72. How do you become a citizen of Israel? Is it hard to become a citizen of Israel?

It’s not easy to become a citizen of Israel outside of the law of return, but it is possible.

You must live in Israel for three out of the past five years, show proficiency in Hebrew, and be willing to waive other citizenships as appropriate to the law. The Law of Return gives Jews with eligible roots and ties to Judaism the possibility to become citizens.

73. Is it easy to get permanent residency in Israel?

It’s not easy to get permanent residency in Israel because of space constraints and immigration laws, but it is possible.

Many falling under the jurisdiction of the right of return are eligible for permanent residency in the interim period of providing documentation. Also, some work visas are available as well.

74. How long can I live in Israel?

You can stay in Israel for 90 days without a visa of any kind, but you’ll have to have papers to stay and live for longer than that.

The immigration process has been amended many times and isn’t the easiest to get because of a lack of space for large numbers of immigrants. Israel isn’t an immigrant state and doesn’t have the same types of immigration as places like the United States.

75. How long can I stay in Israel without a visa?

Most nationalities can stay in Israel and travel for up to 90 days without a visa of any kind. You should check with your local embassy for laws pertaining to your country and Israel before you assume the timeline. Also, this may not apply to areas under conflict.

76. How can I work in Israel?

If you plan to work longer than 30 days, you’ll need an entry permit and a work permit.

You should have a job offer from an Israeli company that can sponsor you and provides you with the necessary paperwork. Moving to Israel without a visa can have some severe consequences due to ongoing security risks and threats.

77. What percentage of Israel are immigrants?

75% of the population were born in the country, a significant increase from the beginnings of the country. The remaining 25% are immigrants from all over the world.

The country saw around 40,000 new immigrants in 2018 with many of them coming from Russia. There are also approximately 250,000 illegal foreign workers and migrants residing in the country although that number is disputed.

78. How many expats are in Israel?

It’s difficult to estimate how many expats live within the country. Israel doesn’t have a lot of opportunities for people to immigrate without falling under the Law of Return, so those living in the country are often moved to citizenship instead of remaining as expats. Of the expats living there, many are American or from countries currently in conflict.

Let us know in the comments below if these Israel facts gave you a clearer picture of the wonders of the area and if facts about Israel were the reason you finally decided to book your trip!

Hi, I'm Bryan Haines . And I'm a co-founder of Storyteller.Travel . I'm a traveler and photographer.

I also blog about photography on Storyteller Tech .

Similar Posts

14 Largest Lakes in Europe: Listed by Size

Europe is filled with beautiful lakes and rivers. What is largest lake in Europe? And how does it compare to the other large lakes in this region? In this post, we’ll compare Europe’s largest lakes – by area, volume and depth. What’s the largest lake in Europe? Lake Ladoga in northwestern Russia is the largest…

14 Things to Do in Kampala Uganda (Bonus: 11 Kampala Facts)

Thinking about visiting Kampala while in Uganda? In this post, you’ll learn all about Uganda’s capital city – interesting facts and many things to do in Kampala. Looking for facts about Kampala? Jump to that section now. 14 Things to Do in Kampala Uganda Here are 14 things to do in Kampala Uganda. Did we…

Nova Scotia Beaches: Guide to 41 Best Beaches in Nova Scotia

Looking for the best beaches in Nova Scotia? Here’s the complete guide to Nova Scotia beaches – including the longest, warmest and best surfing beaches. Despite its northern location, Nova Scotia is known for having some of the warmest waters north of the Carolinas. And with 7500 km of coastline, there are a lot of…

What’s the Largest Lake in Africa? 9 Largest Lakes Compared

Africa is home to many huge lakes. What’s the largest lake in Africa? And where are the best places to visit? In this post, you’ll learn about the 9 largest lakes in Africa. Plus lots of photos and details. Africa has so much to offer a western traveler including world-renowned lakes. Second only to the…

15 Incredible Things to do in Uganda [Culture, Nature, Culinary, Adventure…]

Here are 15 things to do in Uganda. They include gorilla trekking and animal safari, adventure sports, cultural events and much more. 15 Incredible Things to do in Uganda Nicknamed the “Pearl of Africa” by Sir Winston Churchill, Uganda offers a smorgasbord of impressive attractions and unique things that you can’t see or do anywhere…

Uganda’s 10 National Parks & 4 Wildlife Game Reserves [Travelers Guide]

Planning your Uganda trip? In this post about Uganda’s 10 National Parks and 4 Wildlife Game Reserves, you’ll learn about their topography, animals you can see, and where they are located. We also include 7 travel videos to give you a true picture about each Uganda National Park. Uganda’s 10 National Parks The national parks…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

©Beata Bar/Shutterstock

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

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Baha’i Gardens

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

Masada National Park

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

Basilica of the Annunciation

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

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…

Latest stories from Israel

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Apr 14, 2021 • 1 min read

A limited number of groups can enter from 23 May and the number will be increased based on the health situation

Aug 25, 2020 • 2 min read

Nov 24, 2019 • 5 min read

Nov 6, 2019 • 5 min read

May 13, 2019 • 5 min read

Apr 17, 2019 • 5 min read

Dec 13, 2018 • 5 min read

Dec 8, 2018 • 7 min read

Dec 3, 2018 • 3 min read

Oct 1, 2018 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Israel

Israel and beyond.

• 1.1 Disputed territories
• 3.1 Prominent national parks
• 3.2 Prominent nature reserves
• 4.1.1 Until the Middle Ages
• 4.1.2 Since World War I
• 4.2 Economy
• 4.3 Society
• 4.4.1 Shabbat
• 4.4.2 Public holidays
• 4.5 Electricity
• 4.6 Climate
• 4.7 Visitor information
• 4.8 See also
• 4.9 Topics in Israel
• 6.1 Entry requirements
• 6.2 By plane
• 6.3 By boat
• 6.4 By road
• 6.5.1 From Amman
• 6.5.2 From Cairo
• 7.2 By Sherut
• 7.3 By train
• 7.4 By taxi
• 7.5 By thumb
• 7.6.1 Road system
• 7.6.2.1 Toll highways
• 7.6.3 Licensing information
• 7.6.4 Safety issues
• 7.6.5 Car rental
• 7.7 By plane
• 7.8 By bicycle
• 7.9 On foot and navigation
• 8.1 Religious sites
• 8.2 Historic sites
• 8.3 The people
• 8.4 Natural sites
• 8.5 Museums
• 9.1 Backpacking
• 10.2 Money and payments
• 10.3 VAT return
• 10.4 Tipping
• 10.5 Business hours
• 10.6 Bargaining
• 11.1 Fast and popular
• 11.2.1 Kosher food
• 11.2.2 Dietary restrictions during Passover
• 11.3 Prominent local snacks
• 11.4 Ethnic food
• 11.5 Vegetarians and vegans
• 12.1.1 Beer
• 12.1.2 Liqueurs
• 12.1.3 Wines
• 12.2 Soft drinks
• 16.1 Rocket attacks
• 16.2 Gay and lesbian
• 17.1 In desert and rural areas
• 18.1.1 Newspapers
• 18.1.2 Radio and TV
• 18.2 Embassies and consulates
• 19.1 Sensitive issues
• 20.1 By mail
• 20.2.1 Cellphone rentals and prepaid phone service
• 20.2.2 Roaming with your own device
• 20.3 By net

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Israel\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/>

Israel ( Hebrew : מדינת ישראל Medinat Yisra'el ; Arabic: دولة إسرائيل) is a small yet diverse Middle Eastern country. The modern State of Israel was established in 1948 as a homeland for the Jewish people, but the region contains thousands of years of history for many peoples and religions in addition to the Jews. Israel is considered part of the Holy Land (together with areas of Jordan , Egypt and the Palestinian territories ), and of the Levant and in ancient history of the Fertile Crescent . The three major Abrahamic religions of Judaism , Christianity and Islam , as well as the Baha'i Faith , have strong ties to this land, and their holy and historic sites are major destinations for pilgrims and tourists from around the world. The Israeli population is about 74% Jews, 21% Arabs, and 5% non-Arab Christians and others. Most of the Jews are descended from Olim ("returnees" from the Jewish Diaspora), and their diverse origins (Russian, German, Moroccan, Yemeni, and Ethiopian, to name a few of the prominent ones) can be seen in various aspects of modern Israeli culture.

In contrast to its long ancient history, Israel is a highly urbanized, economically developed, first-world society. It remains in conflict with the Palestinians and some of its other Arab neighbors.

Since 1967, Israel has controlled most of the West Bank (often called "Judea and Samaria" in Israel) as well as the Golan Heights . Israel has annexed East Jerusalem and the Golan, but most other countries, except the United States , reject the annexation, and consider these areas and the West Bank (which Israel did not annex, and Israeli law does not apply to the area) to be occupied Arab territories. Wikivoyage takes no stance on these political issues, but notes that in practice, current visitors to these areas will need Israeli visas and permits.

Israel possesses a number of diverse regions, with landscapes varying between coast, mountain, forest, and desert, with just about everything in between. On a single winter day, for example, you could go skiing at the Hermon mountain on the Golan Heights, and then sunbathe next to the Dead Sea. The metropolitan areas of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv form very much their own regions; from north to south, however, Israel's regions are as follows:

Disputed territories

• 31.778889 35.225556 1 Jerusalem – the capital and largest city of Israel; a diverse city sacred for millennia to the three Abrahamic religions (Jews, Christians and Muslims). It has an abundance of historic sites from five millennia.
• 32.08 34.78 2 Tel Aviv – the center of Israel's economy and modern culture, this vibrant city is known as the "White City" for its Bauhaus architecture. It is home to beautiful historic architecture in its Old Jaffa district, and towering skyscrapers, sandy beaches, bustling markets, a vibrant LGBT scene and the largest nightclub scene of the Middle East.
• 32.926111 35.083889 3 Akko (Acre) – an ancient town with a historic port and the most sacred Baha'i site. Its coastal old town is particularly beautiful
• 31.258889 34.797778 4 Be'er Sheva – the de facto capital of the Negev region
• 29.55 34.95 5 Eilat – the 'Goa of the Middle East', Israel's window on the Red Sea, a vibrant resort city
• 32.702103 35.29785 7 Nazareth – the hometown of Jesus, now the largest Arab city in Israel
• 32.965833 35.498333 8 Safed (Tzfat) – a fascinating mountaintop city filled with artists and mystics, home to ARI school of Kabbalah
• 32.789722 35.524722 9 Tiberias – a modern resort town with an ancient background, on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee

Other destinations

• 31.776667 35.234167 1 Old City of Jerusalem – a historic walled area within the modern city of Jerusalem split into four quarters: the Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian. Tourists of different religions and nations come from around the world to visit its holy sites, which include the Dome of the Rock, the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. A UNESCO World Heritage site .
• 32.926111 35.083889 2 Old City of Acre – One of the oldest port cities in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• 32.818906 35.590033 3 Sea of Galilee region – the home of Jesus of Nazareth and the largest freshwater lake in the country
• 31.5207 35.4845 4 Dead Sea – a sea of hypersalinated water that keeps people afloat and the lowest point on Earth
• 32.596389 35.241944 5 Jezreel Valley – an extensive inland valley, largely rural, extending inland from east of Haifa to the Jordan Valley
• 31.7 35.3 6 Judaean Desert – an arid landscape with an array of hills, canyons, and hidden historic sites
• 32.81378 34.98655 7 Bahá'í Gardens and World Center – center of the Bahá'í Faith , home to the Shrine of the Báb and Terraces, in the northern city of Haifa

Prominent national parks

• 31.315556 35.353889 8 Masada – high on a plateau above the Dead Sea, the scene of the Zealots' last stand against the might of Rome. A UNESCO World Heritage site .
• 30.826389 34.766389 9 Ein Avdat – beautiful steep canyon and a popular hiking spot
• 32.4794 35.5058 11 Beth Shean Valley – the core of the north Jordan River valley
• 32.595556 35.521389 12 Belvoir Fortress – a Crusader fortress on a ridge in the eastern edge of the Galilee.
• 33.252778 35.714722 13 Nimrod Fortress – remains of a medieval fortress in the northern Golan Heights, 800 meters above sea level.
• 33.093122 35.104767 14 Rosh Haniqra – spectacular caverns on Israel's Mediterranean coast in the Western Galilee in the north of Israel, near the northern border with Lebanon.

Prominent nature reserves

• 30.612778 34.801667 15 Ramon Crater – 40   km long crater-like landform in the middle of the Negev desert, the largest of three similar craters found in Israel. Offers breathtaking desert vistas.
• 33.4 35.85 16 Mount Hermon – The mountain is partly in Israel and partly in Syria and Lebanon . The Israeli summit of the mountain is 2,224m above sea level and is the highest location in the country. The total area of the Hermon nature reserve is 76,250 hectares. Most of the nature reserve is in a restricted military area (except for Hermon Ski resort and the Banias springs area at the slopes of the mountain which are popular visited destination).
• 32.6725 35.023333 17 Carmel Range – a forested hilly region along the Mediterranean coast, southeast of Haifa

See also #Do for parks and reserves.

Until the Middle Ages

While the current state of Israel is a relatively new country founded in 1948, the " land of Israel" has a long, complex history stretching back thousands of years to the beginnings of human civilization. It's been invaded by virtually every Old World empire including the Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Crusaders, Mongols, Ottomans, French (with Napoleon as general), and British. It is the birthplace of Judaism and Christianity, and also contains sacred sites of Islam and the Baha'i Faith.

Israel has been inhabited for tens of thousands of years, with Neanderthal remains from the region dating back 50,000 years. Its strategic location serving as a land bridge from Asia to Egypt and the rest of Africa made Israel an ideal target for conquerors through the ages. The first nation to conquer the land was Egypt , in the 16th century BC. In the Fifth Year of Pharaoh Merenptah (roughly 1208 BC) Israel is mentioned on a stele as having been "laid waste" (likely a propaganda exaggeration), which constitutes the first mention of Israel known to history. Incidentally that same year is also the date of an inscription on behalf of the same Pharaoh mentioning the "Sea Peoples" who are often blamed for the virtual collapse of urban and writing society in the eastern Mediterranean of the time, ushering in - among other things - the "Greek Dark Ages" and the collapse of the Hittite Empire. In approximately 1000 BC, an Israelite kingdom was set up under King Saul. According to the Biblical account, King Saul was succeeded by kings David and Solomon, but after Solomon's death the kingdom split in two (though many historians contend that the kingdoms of Israel and Judah were never united but instead were always rival kingdoms). The northern kingdom was conquered by Assyria in 722 BC, and the southern kingdom by Babylonia in 586 BC. Both conquests were accompanied by an exile of the Israelites from their land.

Several decades later, the Persian empire conquered Babylonia, and allowed the Jewish exiles to return and reestablish a province centered around Jerusalem. The Persian empire was in turn conquered in ~330 BC by Alexander the Great . In ~166 BC, the Maccabees rebelled against the Seleucid Greeks and established an independent Jewish state, but this state was conquered in 63 BC by the Roman Empire . Around 30 CE, Jesus of Nazareth began his ministry in the Galilee.

Periodic Jewish revolts against the Romans had some temporary success, but eventually led to destruction and exile for the Jews. The Roman/Byzantine Empire continued to rule the area until the 7th century, when the area was conquered (very briefly) by the Persians , and then by the Muslim Arabs . In the Crusades (11th-13th centuries), Christians were temporarily able to conquer the Holy Land from the Muslims. After 1290, when the Crusaders were expelled by Saladin, the land was ruled by different Muslim rulers. The last of those Muslim rulers was Ottoman Turkey , which was defeated in the First World War . After the war, the area that is now Israel, the Palestinian Territories and Jordan became the "League of Nations Mandate for Palestine", intended in part as a homeland for Jewish people.

Since World War I

During the 1920s, the British were handed a mandate to prepare the region for a future Jewish state. Arab pressure led to the eastern part of the mandate being split off into the Arab kingdom of Transjordan (now Jordan ) and declared off-limits for Jews.

The first two major waves of modern Jewish immigration were in 1882 and the early 1900s, under Ottoman rule, followed by refugees from Nazi Germany in the 1930s and 1940s. Before 1948, immigration was almost exclusively by Ashkenazi Jews, who spoke mostly Yiddish and/or the national languages of their countries of residence. Initially, religious Jews were largely opposed to the idea of Zionism, and as such the first waves of immigrants were dominated by idealistic but secular Jews.

While several Arab leaders and individuals welcomed Jewish immigration to develop the largely agricultural land, starting in the 1920s the Arab majority was vocally hostile to Zionism. Both Zionist and non-Zionist Jews were attacked during the riots of 1929 and the later Arab revolt of 1936-1939. During World War II, Haj Amin al-Husseini, the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, openly allied with Nazi Germany and called for an Arab state with no Jews in it. The Jewish population formed several armed groups to defend themselves – the Haganah (precursor to the modern Israeli army) was the largest and most important, but there were also more violent and extremist offshoots like the Irgun. In 1939 the British decided to appease Arab radicals with the "White Paper", which severely limited Jewish immigration just as the Nazis were about to begin World War II. This was bitterly opposed by Zionists. When the British continued to prevent the immigration of Holocaust survivors after the war, Jewish underground groups became heavily involved in illegal immigration, and the more radical groups conducted violent attacks on the British government.

After two years of growing violence between Jews, Arabs, and the British government, in the fall of 1947 the British decided to withdraw from the area. The UN recommended that the territory of Palestine be partitioned into separate Jewish and Arab states, which was agreed to by both the United States and the Soviet Union. The Jews accepted the plan, but the Arabs firmly rejected it. Nonetheless, on 14 May 1948, the Jews declared independence as the State of Israel. The Arabs responded with a military invasion. The Israelis won a decisive victory. As a result of the war, approximately 600,000 Arabs were displaced from the territory of the newly-proclaimed Jewish state. This event is known as the Nakba (lit. catastrophe) to Palestinians, and to Israelis as their War of Independence. A comparable number of Jews were displaced from Arab nations in the late 1940s and 1950s, and many of them settled in Israel.

At first, France was Israel's most important ally and arms supplier, though Czechoslovakia had also been an important supplier of weapons up till 1949. Israel would participate in the Suez Crisis on the side of France and the United Kingdom in 1956, during which it would gain control of the Sinai Peninsula from Egypt . However, under American and Soviet pressure, Israel would be forced to withdraw from Sinai in 1957, though the agreement would also guarantee Israeli ships free passage through the Straits of Tiran. Further fighting continued over the next few decades, and in the Six-Day War of 1967 the Israelis won another decisive victory against the Arabs, during which it regained control of Sinai from Egypt, and also gained control of the Golan Heights from Syria . Despite urgent pleas by Israel asking Jordan not to attack (Israel had enjoyed a less belligerent relationship with Jordan than other Arab neighbors), King Hussein was ultimately convinced by Egyptian president Gamal Abdel Nasser to do so. The Jordanian attack led to Israel quickly capturing East Jerusalem and the West Bank, leading to the ongoing and controversial situation in both places.

In 1973, Anwar Sadat, who had succeeded the deceased Nasser as leader of Egypt, decided to launch a surprise attack on Israel during Yom Kippur, one of the highest holidays in Judaism. While the Israeli secret service had hints of an impending attack, Prime Minister Golda Meir decided not to launch a pre-emptive strike for fear of a negative reaction by other countries, particularly the U.S. Despite early gains by the Arab side, Israel ultimately gained the upper hand, aided by U.S. arms shipments which helped cement what is seen today as one of both countries' strongest and longest-lasting alliances. In 1979, a peace treaty was concluded between Israel and Egypt (with Sinai returned to Egypt) with American mediation, and in 1994, a similar peace treaty was signed with Jordan again with American mediation. Both agreements have held to this day. However, a peace process with Palestinian Arabs that began in the early 1990s failed in 2000, and little progress has been seen since then. In the 21st century, other actors than the U.S. have tried to mediate in the conflict, but neither the EU nor the Arab League have had more luck than U.S. mediation. Israel normalized relations with the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain in 2020 with U.S. mediation, making them the first Gulf states to establish diplomatic relations with Israel. In the same year, Israel also normalized relations with Sudan with U.S. mediation - the first peace deal with a country that had actually fought a war with Israel since the Jordan peace deal. In December 2020, Morocco became the sixth Arab nation, and second North African nation to normalise ties with Israel.

Israel remains officially at war with neighboring Syria and Lebanon, and has similar hostilities with the Hamas organization which controls the Gaza Strip . However, these borders are usually quiet – infrequently shells or rockets will be fired across them, and on rare occasions a full-scale conflict will break out (for example, in 2014 and 2023–2024). There are also occasional cases of individual violent attacks between Israelis and West Bank Palestinians, who have significant interaction in the West Bank and Jerusalem.

Although it's in Asia, due to hostility from the Arab countries, Israel participates in European rather than Asian regional bodies.

Israel has a technologically advanced market economy with substantial government participation. It depends on imports of crude oil, grains, raw materials and military equipment. Despite limited natural resources, Israel has intensively developed its agricultural and industrial sectors since the 1980s. Cut diamonds, high-technology equipment, aircraft, high-tech defense systems, chemicals and chemical products, machinery and equipment, transport equipment, rubber, plastics, textiles and services in various fields are the leading exports. Large reserves of offshore natural gas have been discovered since 2009.

For many years Israel posted sizable current account deficits, which were covered by large transfer payments from abroad and by foreign loans. However, tight fiscal policy and high growth rates led Israel to a budget surplus. Roughly half of the government's foreign debt is owed to the U.S., which is its major source of economic and military aid.

Israel's economy grew rapidly in the 1990s due to immigration from the former USSR, the opening of new markets at the end of the Cold War, the optimism of the peace process, and the dot-com boom. However, in 2000 the combination of a second intifada and the dot-com bust led to a severe recession. Since 2004 the economy has resumed growing, and Israel was one of the world's most resilient economies during the 2008 "Great Recession". From the 2010s, Israel’s economy has grown rapidly, largely due to the country’s high-tech industries. Today, Israel is a developed country and in 2022 has a GDP per capita similar to the European Union average. The cost of living – especially in big cities like Tel Aviv – is surprisingly high and there is a long-standing debate about the problem of economic emigration.

The most obvious division in Israel's society is between Jews – who make up 75% of the population in Israel proper and 15%–40% in areas captured by Israel during the Six-Day War (West Bank, East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights ) – and non-Jews (mostly Arab Palestinian citizens of Israeli), who make up nearly all of the rest. In addition, some 350,000 people who emigrated to Israel from the former Soviet Union are not considered Jews according to the standards of halakha (Jewish law), though most have some Jewish ancestry and they largely identify with the Jewish mainstream. In terms of religious affiliation, 77% of Israelis are Jewish, 16% are Muslim, 4% are Christian Arabs, and 2% are Druze (a Muslim offshoot considered heretical by mainstream Islam).

There are also deep divisions within Jewish society. First is the cultural division between the 'Ashkenazim', whose ancestors came from communities that developed over hundreds of years in Central and Eastern Europe, who dominated statebuilding in Israel's first decades as a state, and were traditionally considered wealthier and better connected politically (particularly those from Germany and other central or northern European countries), and the 'Sephardim' and 'Mizrahim', who immigrated from the Balkans, Middle East, Yemen and North Africa. Sephardi and Mizrahi immigrants from Europe tend to match the socioeconomic profile of Ashkenazim. However, the divide between these ethnic groups has greatly narrowed, and intermarriage has become common. Massive immigration of Ethiopian Jews in the 1980s and Russian-speaking Jews in the 1990s has added additional notable demographics to Israel's population. Despite the majority of the world's Jews being Ashkenazim and despite Zionism initially being largely an Ashkenazi phenomenon, these days there are more Mizrahim/Sephardim in Israel than Ashkenazim, and Mizrahi/Sephardi culture is by far culturally dominant in today’s Israel. Further, marriage between Jewish ethnic groups has increased year-over-year in Israel, and a plurality of Israeli Jews today are of mixed Jewish backgrounds (for example, it's common for someone to be descended from Polish Jews on one side of their family, and Tunisian Jews on the other).

While ethnic divisions have weakened as the native-born population has increased, religious tensions between 'secular' and 'Orthodox' Jews have increased. The spectrum ranges from the stringently Orthodox 'Haredim' (who form only 9% of the population but wield a disproportionate amount of power, thanks to Israel's fractious coalition politics), to 10% who are 'religious' (similar to 'Modern Orthodox' outside Israel), 15% 'traditional-religious', 23% 'traditional', and 43% 'secular'. While secular and traditional Jews are widespread throughout all of Israel, Orthodox Jews tend to be concentrated in some cities, such as Jerusalem , Bnei Brak , and Ashdod , while Tel Aviv is known for being one of the most socially liberal cities in the world, on par with major American and Western European cities. Despite the common perception of religious Jews being more ardent Zionists and secular Jews being more open to "land for peace" deals with the Palestinians, Ultra -Orthodox Jews (a term rejected as pejorative by many) are actually largely opposed to the current Israeli state and some consider Zionism blasphemous as they believe that only the Messiah can restore Israeli statehood. On the other hand, large groups of Russian-speaking or Mizrachi Jews are relatively secular but vote for parties generally considered to fall into the "hawkish" camp and are opposed to the principle of "land for peace" and highly skeptical of negotiations with Hamas, Fatah or those neighbors with whom Israel does not maintain official diplomatic relations.

Jewish travellers from the English-speaking world may affiliate with non-Orthodox Jewish religious movements such as Reform/Liberal, Reconstructionist, and Masorti/Conservative. However, travellers should be aware that while these movements do have a presence in Israel, they are dwarfed by secular Jews and the Orthodox; institutional support for organized non-Orthodox religious life is minimal.

In any case, if a traveller wishes to (e.g.) attend Shabbat services at a synagogue or at a family’s house, they should do advance planning and research, or at least join a local contact person to help with the little details (where to sit, when to come, what’s expected etc).

In Israel, the workweek is from Sunday to Thursday . Friday is a day when most Israelis don't work, and the street and the markets in the Jewish cities during Friday will be crowded than usual. On Friday, shops, markets, and Kosher restaurants close between 14:00 and 16:00, and public transportation (except East Jerusalem and Nazareth) usually ends on Fridays around 16:00 and restarts on Saturday around 18:00 in the winter or 21:00 in the summer. This is because of Shabbat (the sabbath), which begins Friday afternoon around sunset, and ends Saturday around sunset, though many places do not reopen/renew service until Sunday morning. The same holds true for major Jewish or national holidays. This is critical if you rely on the bus or train to explore the country or go to/from the airport (planes do fly on Shabbat, except for El Al airline). So plan your itinerary accordingly. Sherut (shared minibus taxis) will often operate on Shabbat, and can be used for intercity travel if you must travel between Friday evening and Saturday evening.

Public holidays

Different levels of activity stop in Israel depending on the festival or holiday, and different areas will see different levels of activity on these days. Public transportation usually stops completely on most holidays. Holidays in Israel follow the Jewish calendar, which means that the Gregorian date will vary from year to year although tending to fall within the same 6-week period. In the Jewish tradition, a new day begins at sunset, meaning that Jewish holidays begin on the eve of the official date (not at midnight). A list of Gregorian dates matched with the National holidays and Jewish holidays can be found at the holidays section of the "GoIsrael" site or at Hebcal . A more elaborate list of Jewish holidays and dates can be found at the Jewish holidays section of the Chabad site , although some of the holidays mentioned there are scarcely celebrated or have no influence on day-to-day activities.

Holidays on which stores and public transportation are closed (similar to Shabbat) are marked with a plus sign (+):

Electricity

The voltage in Israel is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. The electric outlets used are type H and rarely Type C. Type H is a three-pronged standard unique to Israel, but most modern type H outlets can also accept type C European two-pronged plugs. In fact, most electronic devices in Israel use type C plugs. For more information on plug types, please see our Electrical systems article.

Summer in Israel is uncomfortably hot; the coastal areas are hot and humid, and areas to the east are hot and dry. The other three seasons, in contrast, have absolutely beautiful weather and are ideal for travel. In spring and autumn the temperatures are comfortable and nearly all days are sunny. Winter is mild with a mixture of cold, rainy days and cool, sunny days which are great for hiking and touring.

Especially during summer, it is important to protect yourself from the sun and drink plenty of water. Also, hilly inland areas in Israel (particularly Jerusalem and the north) occasionally experience snowfall in the winter, sometimes heavy enough to disrupt transportation.

Visitor information

• Go Israel tourism information

Hebrew is the official language of Israel, while at least 20% of the population speak Arabic as well. Israelis share much pride in the Hebrew language, and learning the language is considered necessary to fully integrate into Israeli society. Until 2018, Arabic was a co-official language. While speaking Hebrew slang, words of Arabic origin are commonly used. For example: "Walla?" (Is that so?), "Yalla!" (Come on, let’s move!), "Sababa" (great, fine, okay, or signals agreement or acknowledgment), "Akhla" (good), “Ahlan” (hello), "Sachbak" (friend who takes care of me), and many more. Street talk is also much affected by military jargon, which is second nature to many Israelis.

Arabic, the main language of the region as well as the first language of the many Arabs who live in Israel, is spoken by 20% of the population. Israeli Jews also learn Arabic in school (mainly Modern Standard Arabic, MSA). Palestinian Arabic is the main dialect spoken by Israeli Arabs.

English is the most popular foreign language, and Israelis study it in school from an early age. Nearly anyone you meet on the street will be able to communicate with you in English. The main exception is Hasidic Jews (“Haredim”), who rarely study English, and instead speak Yiddish . Also, English proficiency can vary wildly. All street and road signs (and many others) have English, as well as the Hebrew and Arabic names.

Mass immigration from the former Soviet Union since the 1990s brought a large number of immigrants who speak Russian , and it is the most widely spoken non-official language in Israel.

Other encountered languages in Israel, reflecting the diverse origins of Israelis, include Persian , Turkish , Romanian , French , German , Polish , Amharic , Marathi , Malayalam and Spanish , though with the exception of French and Amharic among first-generation immigrants, these languages have become rare to encounter in Israel. Some of the older members of the population and most Chasidic Jews speak Yiddish , a Central/Eastern-European Germanic Jewish language. Foreign workers from China, the Philippines, Thailand, and other Asian countries can be seen everywhere in central Israel. You can hear a mix of a dozen languages while on buses, trains or walking in transportation hubs, especially in the Tel Aviv central bus station.

If you are Jewish and aged 18 to 26, you are entitled to a free 10-day all expenses paid trip to Israel run by Birthright Israel . As part of this trip, you will be taken to the various Jewish holy sites around Israel, and also get a chance to interact with soldiers of the Israeli military.

Entry requirements

All foreign nationals entering Israel must have a visa or an electronic travel authorization (ETA-IL). Electronic travel authorization is available to citizens of certain countries and allows to visit Israel for tourism for up to 90 days. Travelers can check eligibility and apply for an ETA on the official website , the cost is ₪25 (waived during pilot period).

Before January 2025, having an ETA is optional.

Citizens of the following countries/territories are eligible for an ETA (official list here ): all European Union member states, Albania , Andorra , Argentina , Australia , Bahamas , Barbados , Belarus , Belize , Botswana , Brazil , Canada , Chile , Colombia , Costa Rica , Dominica , Dominican Republic , Ecuador , El Salvador , Eswatini , Fiji , Georgia , Grenada , Guatemala , Haiti , Honduras , Hong Kong , Iceland , Jamaica , Japan , Lesotho , Liechtenstein , Macau , Malawi , Marshall Islands , Mauritius , Mexico , Micronesia , Moldova , Monaco , Mongolia , Montenegro , Nauru , New Zealand , North Macedonia , Norway , Palau , Panama , Papua New Guinea , Paraguay , Peru , Philippines , Russia , Saint Kitts and Nevis , Saint Lucia , Saint Vincent and the Grenadines , Samoa , San Marino , Serbia , Singapore , Solomon Islands , South Africa , South Korea , Suriname , Switzerland , Taiwan , Tonga , Trinidad and Tobago , Ukraine , United Arab Emirates , United Kingdom , United States , Uruguay and Vanuatu .

If, however, you are suspected of illegal activities, being of Arab descent, Muslim, or a political activist, there is a possibility of you being subject to additional questioning, searches and/or denied entry, if they are not satisfied after questioning, according to the US Department of State. Holding citizenship in one of the above listed countries does not guarantee entry. Decisions are left to the discretion of immigration officers .

A visa or residence permit will not be granted to you, if you, or the organization you're part of, have knowingly issued a public call to boycott the state of Israel or pledged to take part in such a boycott.

German citizens born before 1 Jan 1928 do have to apply for a visa in advance. This visa will be given if you were not heavily involved in persecution during the Nazi era and will be valid for the whole time your passport is valid.

Egyptian citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 14 days if entering through Taba and visiting up to Beer Sheva only.

For some Arab states it constitutes a crime for their citizens to enter Israel at all. Even if you're an Arab-born citizen of a European or North American country, having entered Israel may have consequences when going to your (other) country of citizenship.

Israeli Customs and Immigration officers may take a dim view of travelers arriving from Arab countries, but you are unlikely to face anything worse than very time-consuming and repetitive but polite questioning. Depending on the situation, if you have stamps from other Arab countries in your passport, you should expect to be taken to one side (without any explanation) and eventually questioned. This can take anywhere from 10 minutes to several hours. The key thing to remember is this: if you have nothing to hide, then, other than the inconvenience of questioning, you should have nothing to be worried about. If you are a young backpacker, especially if you travel alone, it is much more likely you will be detained for questioning in Ben Gurion Airport. There is a "selection committee" of 2 security guards waiting when you go up the escalators from your flight, and if you seem suspicious they will not hesitate to stop you. If you dress up nicely or seem a part of another group or a family they are less likely to bother you.

It is illegal to bring non-kosher food products into Israel, and kosher products must have appropriate certification to be allowed in; anything lacking proper kosher certification will be presumed non-kosher and confiscated by customs.

If you're in Israel on a tourist visa (B2) and decide to renew your visa for a longer term, you may do so at the Ministry of the Interior Visa office for a small fee. Just call Ministry of Interior Call center at ☏ +972 2 629-4666 to find out where is the office near you. Alternately, citizens from most European and North American countries can renew their visas by crossing into Jordan and back at the Arava border crossing near Eilat or by crossing into Egypt and back at Taba.

At the moment, there are only three international airports.

Flights to Israel are subject to extra security measures at their points of departure. This means that you will be subject to intense questioning at check-in, and pass through an additional security screening at the boarding gate.

It is surprisingly difficult for the individual traveler to reach Israel by boat, and there are no regular ferries. Lots of large cruise ships call at Haifa and Ashdod but these are not available for point-to-point trips. Salamis Cruises very occasionally runs short cruises from Limassol in Cyprus to Haifa (and, if you prefer, to Beirut), and conversely, the Haifa-based line Mano operates short cruises round the Mediterranean. These may be available as point-to-point trips but you would probably have to pay the full cruise fare, carry only light luggage as landing is by small tenders, and make other arrangements for return as there might not be another such cruise till the following summer. With your own yacht or other small craft, from abroad you may land in Israel at Haifa , Herzliya , Tel Aviv or Ashkelon . Call ahead before entering Israeli waters to arrange immigration and customs clearance. Eilat does not specifically list marina arrival facilities, but it is of course a 24-hour commercial port of entry.

See also Ferries in the Mediterranean and Freighter travel .

There are land routes from Egypt and Jordan to Israel; these border crossings have security measures similar to the airports. There are no land routes to either Syria or Lebanon, owing to the fact that these countries do not officially recognize Israel's existence.

Jordan has three crossings with Israel: the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge (the shortest way between Amman and Jerusalem , the busiest crossing); the Jordan River/Sheikh Hussein Bridge (in the north); and Arava/Yitshak Rabin (2   km from Eilat). It's fairly straightforward to cross using a series of buses, though pay attention to the childish Aqaba border taxi Mafia . If you cross the King Hussein Bridge you will not be given an exit stamp for Jordan, and you will not be stamped on re-entry if you choose to return. Mentioning West Bank destinations in your itinerary will arise suspicion – it is just best to avoid mentioning the Palestinian Territories at all while passing the border.

From Egypt you can cross the border at the Taba Border Terminal, near Eilat. From the terminal to Eilat, take bus number 16, 30, or a taxi. The terminal is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with the exception of the Jewish Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) and the Muslim Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice).

Israeli rental cars are not generally permitted across the borders for insurance reasons; in addition, it may not be advisable to travel in Arab countries while displaying an Israeli number plate.

Travelers leaving Israel by land will need to pay an exit fee at the border. (No fee needs to be paid at the airport – it may be included in the ticket cost.) As of 2021, the fee is ₪176 for Allenby Bridge, and ₪101 for all other border terminals.

• There are weekly buses to Nazareth via the Sheikh Hussein bridge (near Beit Shean ), call the operator (+972 4 657-3984) for details. From Nazareth there are buses to Haifa, Tel Aviv, and other destinations.
• Alternatively, you can take a bus to the Sheikh Hussein bridge, cross the border on foot, and get to Israeli destinations by taxi/bus.
• If you don't have Israeli citizenship, you can also use the King Hussein border crossing near Jericho —see link for more details.
• There are twice-weekly buses to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem (USD90 one way) via Eilat, operated by Mazada tours [ dead link ] (Tel +972 2 623-5777). You still have to change buses at the border. (Use Mazada tours at your own risk! They subcontract the Egyptian side of the journey and do little to nothing to help if there is any mix up. At least one Mazada group from Tel Aviv/Jerusalem reportedly was held at the Taba Border - Egyptian side for 7 hours because the Israeli company failed to pay the Egyptian company.)
• Alternatively, you can take a bus to Taba , then cross the border to Eilat on foot.

Israel generally has a modern, sophisticated travel network, although public transit service is not as good as in Europe or East Asia. It is safe and easy to get around the country, although it can be slow (due to traffic, or slow or infrequent buses). Israelis are always willing to help a lost tourist, so never be afraid to ask people for directions or advice.

Travelers should also be aware of Shabbat (Hebrew: שבָּת) the Hebrew word often spelled "Sabbath" in English. From Friday at 16:00 until Saturday at 18:00 (November to March) or 21:00 (April to October), With the exception of Nazareth, Haifa, East Jerusalem and Eilat, public transport services are completely stopped. Included to Tel Aviv airport. In Tel Aviv during the Shabat the municipality operates shuttles with a frequency of every 20 minutes, information about which is available at the bus stations, and in the Google Maps and moovit applications. There will be limited taxi service, and a weekend surcharge applies.

Public transport is used heavily by soldiers traveling to/from their bases, so a bus or train packed full of soldiers (some armed) is a common occasion and does not indicate any special occurrence. There is a particularly large number of soldiers mainly in the intercity transport on Thursday afternoon and on Sunday morning.

The official national call center for public transportation information (available in English as well) is on *8787 or 072-2588787 (for phone with no access to *star numbers). There is no fee except for regular call-charge. Public transit planning mobile apps are helpful, see Public transit in Israel #By Internet and smartphone .

Jerusalem has a single light rail line with more planned and under construction, while Tel Aviv has a light rail system under construction. The oldest subway in the Middle East is "Carmelit" in Haifa, which is worth taking for the novelty, but of limited use otherwise, as it only serves one rather short line.

Buses are the most common form of public transportation for Israelis and travelers alike. Bus travel is the cheapest way to get around Israel, and is safe and reliable. Israeli soldiers travel for free on most public bus routes, so travelers will often see armed soldiers on buses. The largest bus company in Israel is Egged (Hebrew: אגד), which was formed in 1933. Egged operates 30% of the country's public transportation service lines.

Intercity buses typically begin and end their routes at central bus stations, and also pick up and drop off passengers along the route. Buses do not have toilets on them, But on journeys lasting more than three hours, the driver stops to refreshing for about 15 minutes at a gas station. Except of the buses to Eilat, there is no need and it is not possible to purchase tickets in advance.

The signage at the bus stops and buses in languages other than Hebrew is limited. Ask people around you for help or use mobile apps. If you are unsure where to get off the bus, sit near the front and ask the bus driver to help you. Most drivers are willing to help, as are most passengers.

Google Maps or Moovit apps offer directions for travel in Israel based on bus schedules.

A sherut (Hebrew for service ) or servees (Arabic) is a shared taxi that seats more than four people (the usual capacity is ten). Depending on the circumstances, a driver will follow a predetermined route like a bus, or will transport a group of people from one location to another based on demand. A sherut can be hailed from anywhere, but can be easily found outside major bus stations. They are usually quicker than buses, and will usually stop at any point along the route (not just predetermined stations). Prices vary depending on the length of the trip and are not negotiable. Drivers may wait until their vehicle is full before beginning their journey. Most Sherut lines do not operate during Shabbat and holidays, with few exception depending on the location and popularity.

This form of transportation is best when traveling from a large bus station to a surrounding town or suburb, with a precise destination in mind.

Trains are generally quicker and more comfortable than buses. Except in the Galilee, the Dead Sea and the Negev Desert. Israel's train network reaches most of the main cities as well as Ben Gurion Airport , the main entry point for foreign visitors. The main destinations reached by the train are Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, Be'er Sheva, Acre and Beit Shean. Unlike the train stations in Europe, the train stations are usually not within walking distance of the urban attractions and require the use of an additional means of transportation.

Trains run 2-3 times per hour in peak travel times and at least once an hour at off peak hours. Trains on the Nahariya-Haifa-Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion Airport-Be'er Sheva line run through the night too. However, after midnight, trains stop in Haifa at the Hof Hacarmel station only, in Tel Aviv at Merkaz (Central) only, and in Be'er Sheva at Merkaz (Central) only. All other Be'er Sheva, Tel Aviv and Haifa stations close after midnight. One must also remember that trains operate only on weekdays (there are no trains from Friday afternoon till Saturday evening). In fact, the trains stop several hours earlier on Friday than buses do. The Tel Aviv-Jerusalem line via Ben Gurion Airport is the first electrified line in the country and trains reach up to 160   km/h (99   mph) . You'll find a lot of double decker trains reminiscent of those found in Germany and IC3 multiple units like those found in Denmark. Most of the rolling stock has been bought in the 21st century and is therefore modern and comfortable.

Israel Railways runs intercity lines from Nahariya to Be'er Sheva via Haifa , Tel Aviv and Ben Gurion airport , from Jerusalem to Tel Aviv , and suburban lines radiating from Tel Aviv to Binyamina , Ashkelon , Kfar Sava , Raanana , Rishon LeZion , Modiin and Bet Shemesh . There is also a suburban line between Be'er Sheva and Dimona .

Tel Aviv has 4 train stations , Haifa (including its eastern suburban neighborhoods) has 6 , and Be'er Sheva has 2 , providing easy access to many parts of those cities.

To differentiate from a shared taxi ( sherut ), a regular Israel taxi is sometimes called special (using the English word). The driver should use the meter both inside and outside cities (in Hebrew, moneh ), unless the passenger agrees to prefix a price (agreeing to go off the meter is almost universally in the driver's favor). There are surcharges; for calling a taxi by phone (₪5 as of January 2013), for luggage (₪4.20 a piece), for more than 2 passengers (₪4.70 (fixed), passengers that are children under the age of 5 are not taken into account), for taking toll-routes and for hailing a taxi at airports or seaports (Ben Gurion airport - ₪5, Haifa seaport - ₪2).

Drivers are known to try to scam tourists by not turning on the meter to begin with and then fighting about the cost at the end of the ride. It is best to specify that you absolutely require the 'moneh' to be activated before you leave unless you know how much the trip should cost, in which case you can make a deal. However, if you are caught off guard some drivers will become extremely rude or even violent if you refuse to pay despite the meter never having been switched on. It is best to try to avoid this situation, but it is better to avoid any conflict with the driver by paying and learning rather than saving your money and risking an unpredictable escalation. Noting the taxi's number (clearly visible on the outside of the cab) and contacting the local taxi authority is an efficient form of redress.

A good way of avoiding scams is to order taxis with the Gett/GetTaxi smartphone app. Gett use only licensed taxi drivers and the same fare structure as any other taxi ride. It gives the fixed price or meter price directly to you, allows for credit card payment (none of the "I have no change" nonsense), and you can put in your specific destination and see that the driver isn't taking a roundabout route to run the meter up.

Israeli taxi drivers do not expect a tip, and neither should you generally offer one. In addition, they are more likely to round the fare down to the nearest shekel than up.

All Israeli taxis are numbered, and all print out an official receipt on printers attached to their meters (if you request), useful if you are traveling on business.

Ridehailing is available in Israel. Gett [ dead link ] is a local option, Uber works also in Tel Aviv and Yango [ dead link ] works in Ashdod, Ashkelon, Beer Sheva, Haifa, Herzliya, Hod HaSharon, Petah Tikva, Rishon Le-Zion and Tel Aviv.

Most major junctions have a shelter and are well lit throughout the night.

Hitchhiking is more accepted in rural areas, particularly sparsely populated areas like the Golan Heights or between smaller towns in the West Bank that have little bus service, than in cities. Local West Bank settlers rely heavily on hitch-hiking for transportation. Almost every car will stop and suggest a lift if you stand in any settlement's gate as most of them are defended by IDF soldiers. Nevertheless, inside the West Bank you should never hitchhike from Jewish settlements/cities to Palestinian areas (or vice-versa); this is dangerous.

Do not hitchhike in a car that stopped for you unprompted.

Read through Wikivoyage general guide, which provides a lot of good advice on the how, where and when of Hitchhiking .

Road system

Israel has a modern highway network, connecting all destinations throughout the country. In general, avoid traveling by car: traffic is significant in all hours, drivers are aggressive, road signage is confusing, and parking is scarce and expensive.

Road signs often follow city names (rather than compass directions). That means that you will see signs to Road 1 Jerusalem and Road 1 Tel Aviv, rather than Road 1 West and Road 1 East, so generally you must follow the name of the largest city at the direction of your destination, even if it is not marked. For example, when traveling from Haifa to Be'er Sheva, you will need to travel southwards which means to follow signs directing you to Tel Aviv. When approaching Tel Aviv, you will start to see directions to Be'er Sheva. When getting directions, it's best to ask for the name of an exit as well as the exit just before it.

Roads are numbered according to orientation and significance. In general, east-west roads are given odd numbers, and north-south roads are given even numbers. Numbers generally increase from south to north, and east to west. The most significant national highways are numbered using one or two digits, while the least significant local roads are numbered using four digits. Exceptions to these rules do exist.

Driving regulations

Traffic in Israel drives on the right. Traffic signs and regulations are standard and resemble those of Western Europe. Highway signage is usually in Hebrew, Arabic, and English, although sometimes just in Hebrew and English. Having signs in 3 languages (Hebrew, English, Arabic) usually makes signs overloaded with text, thus only the name of the destination is written in text and a pictogram is used for the type of destination. Usually, each traffic light has an arrow on top, and the traffic light then controls travel to the indicated direction, with a green light guaranteeing that all conflicting traffic faces a red light. Lights without arrows above them control all directions. Red light always means stop. Turning right or left at a red light is strictly forbidden. There is no turning left or right while yielding to opposite traffic, since conflicting traffic always faces a red light, even in the absence of arrows (however, this is not always the case with pedestrians, particularly when turning right). As in several other countries, the green phase is preceded by a red+yellow combination phase. A flashing green light indicates that the yellow light is about to appear, but can usually be found only on roads with speed limits of at least 60   km/h.

White road markings are used to separate both traffic travelling in the same direction and in opposite directions. Yellow lines are used to mark the outer edges of the road (do not cross these, except if stopping at a shoulder), and orange or red lines are used in road works zones or following a change in road signs. Traffic circles (roundabouts) are very common; one gives way to cars already in the circle. There are no all-way stop signs like the ones the USA, Canada, and South Africa. All stop signs require drivers to yield to all conflicting traffic after coming to a complete stop.

Headlights must be turned on (even during the day) on intercity highways from November to March. Motorcyclists have to have their headlights on in all months of the year. Seat belts must be worn at all times in all seats. Using a mobile phone without a hands-free system is forbidden. If one must exit the vehicle on the shoulder of a highway, it is required to put on a reflective vest in order to promote visibility. It is required to keep the reflective vest at all times within the passenger's cabin of the vehicle, and not in the trunk. Car rental companies are required to supply such a vest and it is usually inside the glove compartment.

Parking regulations are indicated by curb markings:

• Red and white — Parking is prohibited, although this rule is often flouted outside weekday daytimes. However, just because others are doing so, doesn't mean your car won't be fined or towed.
• Red and yellow — Reserved for certain vehicles, such as buses at bus stops.
• Blue and white — Parking only with a parking permit purchased at a machine. There is not always a machine nearby, if so, cellphone payment system must be used. In some areas, such as in parts of Tel Aviv, blue and white markings are restricted even at night to residents only. A sign at the beginning of the street, usually in Hebrew only, will detail the specific restrictions.
• Red and Grey — Reserved for residents, but might only be reserved at specific times as stated in signs.
• Grey — Areas are free to park at, unless a parking sign at the beginning of the street requires payment or restricts it.
• Black and White — Marked for curb visibility, when no other coloring apply.

Israel uses the metric system of measurements. Default speed limits are 50   km/h in residential zones, 80   km/h on intercity roads without a physical separation median between opposing lanes, and 90   km/h on intercity roads with a physical separation median. By default, all major freeways (identified by the standard blue European motorway sign) have a speed limit of 110   km/h; however, in practice, speed limit signs bearing a lower limit (usually 90   km/h or 100   km/h) limit the speed on these roads.

Police presence on the roads is generally very significant, and speed and red light cameras are common. Both radar (mostly stationary) and LIDAR (laser, hand-held) are in use for speeding enforcement.

Police vehicles in active duty may have their blue lights turned on for the duration of their trip. Unlike most countries in the "First World", in Israel this is not a sign that they want to pull you over. If they do, they would either turn on their siren or use a loudspeaker to instruct you to stop on the shoulder. A verbal request, although usually made in Hebrew, will usually include the make of the car. It is advisable to comply.

Toll highways

Licensing information.

All drivers in Israel must carry a driver's license or ID. International driver permits, as well as licenses from foreign countries are accepted. Drivers of motor vehicles must be at least 17 years old, while insurance is mandatory. Driving a motorcycle or a moped is permitted starting at age 16. A driver's license is mandatory for two wheel vehicles as well! All cars in Israel must undergo an annual safety inspection, and a sticker bearing the month and year of the next inspection should appear on the front windshield. Every car is required to carry a yellow reflective vest at all times. Theoretically, the police could stop you at any time and ask to see it. If you stop on the edge of the road, and have to get out, you are required by law to wear the vest. All rental cars should have one, so it is a good idea to check before you leave. In Israel while you are driving, the police are allowed to stop you for any reason whatsoever; mostly they do so for license checkups. Shabby-looking vehicles get stopped far more often.

Safety issues

Car accident fatalities in Israel are on par with most European countries and less than half that of the US. However, Israeli drivers are known to be aggressive and impatient. Take this into consideration if you decide to drive in Israel, and use caution - be prepared for other drivers not to yield when they normally should and not to respect your right of way. Be especially cautious on two-lane intercity roads, especially when passing other vehicles. While most major highways have a physical separation median, many lower-traffic intercity roads do not. Also be particularly cautious when driving in the Negev desert, since most roads in that region have only two lanes carrying fast-moving traffic, and trips tend to last hours in the heat. Take care while traveling on Friday night and Saturday, the Jewish Shabbat, as roads tend to be emptier and invite faster, and occasionally more reckless, drivers. Also be more cautious in winter when it rains, as roads will be unusually slick. The first rainy days in fall are particularly dangerous, since the oil/grease and other substances that accumulated on the road all summer are released.

Most major international car rental companies as well as many Israeli ones provide car rental services.

You will be charged VAT for your car rental if you do not produce a visa (for example, if you entered via Allenby and avoided the stamps, although the paper will do).

If you are going to Palestinian areas in the West Bank, your rental insurance may not cover the trip. Clarify exactly where you plan to go with the company before renting.

• Sixst (Shlomo) .  
• Europcar (Albar) .  
• Tamir . a car rental service that delivers and picks up the rental car for you  

Tel Aviv Ben Gurion International Airport to Eilat Ramon airport (or return) is the only active domestic air route. The flight time is between 30 and 45 minutes. Expect 4-8 daily flights during wintertime and roughly hourly during the peak vacation times in July and August. The twp operators are Arkia [ dead link ] and Israir . Despite its popularity, the Haifa-Eilat route is inactive since the previous decade.

Private operators can arrange charter flights to one of the many airfields in the country (Rosh Pina, Kiryat Shmona, Meggido, Fik, Rishon LeTzion, Be'er Sheva, and Herzliya).

For aviation adventurers check Bar Yehuda Airfield ( MTZ   IATA ), at 378   m (1,240   ft) below mean sea level the lowest airport in the world can be quite an experience.

While there are some areas with a bikeshare system and even something of a cycling culture, Tel Aviv chief among them, and while you can see kids in secular cities fill the streets on their bikes on Yom Kippur, in general Israel is not a cycling country. Still, distances are short and some roads have not much traffic. Unfortunately there's not really any awareness of the tourism benefits of bikes and on some routes a four lane highway with no shoulder in the scorching desert sun are all your options. Bike carriage on Israel Railways is free outside of rush hour, however.

On foot and navigation

Israel is an excellent place for hiking and trekking, providing many interesting trails . However, due to the often remote nature of these trails (like the Ramon Crater or the Negev), it is important that you are well prepared and have a proper and reliable map with you. In addition, using GPS adds an extra layer of safety, both in cities as well as the countryside. For reliable (offline) maps, GPS navigation , comprehensive trails and map information, consult OpenStreetMap , which is also used by this travel guide, and by many mobile Apps like OsmAnd and Mapy.cz . Or just download the according GPX or KML files through Waymarked Trails for such trails on OpenStreetMap. (Note, you just need to change the OpenStreetMap relation ID to download additional GPX or KML files through the same link.)

Religious sites

Israel is the core of the Holy Land , and both its land and its main sights are holy to billions of people of different faiths. Some of the world's most famous religious monuments are found here. Israel's capital Jerusalem is the holiest city in Judaism, and one of the holiest in Christianity and Islam. Jerusalem's walled Old City holds famous religious sites including the gold-plated Dome of the Rock , the Western Wall , the Church of the Holy Sepulchre , and the al-Aqsa Mosque . Bordering Jerusalem (but administratively part of the Palestinian Territories ) is Bethlehem , sacred in Christianity as the birthplace of Jesus. The Galilee region is also full of religious sites, including major Christian sites like Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee , as well as notable Jewish sites like the kabbalistic city of Tzfat and the pilgrimage site Meron . Along the Mediterranean coast are holy sites of the Bahai religion - the beautiful Bahá'í Gardens in Haifa with the golden-domed Shrine of the Báb , and the Shrine of Baha'u'llah in Akko . The main pilgrimage site of the Druze religion, Nabi Shu'ayb , is also in the Lower Galilee .

Historic sites

In addition, Israel contain numerous fascinating historic sites from across its thousands of years of recorded history. The City of David in Jerusalem contains remains from when King David conquered the city and made it his capital (around 1000 BCE), and even earlier. In Jerusalem, Megiddo , and Hatzor , you can explore underground water supply systems, tunneled through rock, from the Israelite period. Some of the most impressive ruins in Israel are from the Roman period. Masada , a stunning mountaintop fortress surrounded by cliffs near the Dead Sea, was used by Jewish rebels against Rome, and in modern times has become a symbol of Jewish heroism. Caesarea and Beit Shean are among the Roman cities in Israel, where you can see well-preserved commercial streets and amphitheaters. Later on, the Crusaders left castles in places like Akko (a beautiful seaside walled city) and Belvoir . Meanwhile, the equally impressive Nimrod fortress in the Golan Heights was built by their Muslim rivals. Other ruins from the Muslim period included the iconic walls of Jerusalem, and the underground cistern of Ramla , which you can explore by boat.

Lively and modern Tel Aviv has a completely different atmosphere from Israel's historic sites, with a bustling nightlife (it is known as "the city that never stops") and young atmosphere. But try to get a glimpse of Israel's other different cultures too. Go to the Negev and partake in the hospitality of Bedouin Arab nomads, or go north and see a Druze village. And perhaps visit Meah Shearim in Jerusalem, where Haredi ("Ultra-Orthodox") Jews live as if they were still in a European shtetl. Whatever city you go to, be sure to see the local market - Jerusalem's Machaneh Yehudah and Tel Aviv's Carmel market might represent the Israeli people better than anything.

Natural sites

Despite its small size, Israel contains a wide variety of beautiful and sometimes-unique natural sites. The Dead Sea is the lowest place on earth, and its extremely salty water allows you to float on top while reading a newspaper. Israel has a long Mediterranean coastline , much of it consisting of relaxing beaches, some of it made of rock formations or lined with sandstone cliffs. The Red Sea coastline in Eilat is much shorter, but gives you the chance to scuba dive around coral reefs, or swim with dolphins. The Galilee is full of scenic forested mountains (with the bright blue Sea of Galilee nestled between them), while the Negev desert contains stark canyons and beautiful oases, including the Ramon crater which is the world's largest erosion crater. As the only way to get between Africa and Eurasia without crossing oceans, Israel is one of the world's best places for bird watching . The Soreq Cave with its stalagmites and stalactites is much like Israel as a whole - small compared to its peers elsewhere in the world, but packed with features in comparison to its size.

Jerusalem is home to the excellent Israel Museum , with a collection that includes the Dead Sea Scrolls and other archaeological treasures as well as works from artists such as Picasso, Rodin and Matisse. Equally impressive despite its sad theme is Yad Vashem , the largest Holocaust museum in the world. In Tel Aviv, Beit HaTefutsot is the best place to learn about the Jewish diaspora.

• Israel National Trail – a marked leisure trail (hiking or cycling) covering 940   km from north to south.
• Jesus Trail – a hiking trail from Nazareth to Capernaum covering 65   km that connects major Christian sites in the Galilee.
• The Nativity Trail , The path that Joseph and Mary followed to get to from the Sea of Galilee to Bethlehem [ dead link ]
• There are about 75 national parks and nature reserves in Israel. The entrance fees are between ₪20 and 40 and most of the time are discounted for international students.
• Historic sites in Israel are heavily dotted with informational signs in Hebrew, English, and Arabic. This, in addition to the pamphlet you are given upon entering national parks, makes it easy to understand the significance of everything you see. In contrast to many other countries (Italy comes to mind) where signs are rare and you need to hire a tour guide to understand what you are seeing, here the sites are much more self-explanatory.
• Israeli National Parks are usually closed before 8 and after 16/17:00 (winter/summer), which gives the opportunity for a free and spectacular sunrise or sunset (like the recommended one in Masada).
• Archaeological digs – given how much history took place here, archaeology has been a national pastime of modern Israel (though less now than a generation ago). In the early years of the state, archaeologists like Yigael Yadin became political leaders, while leaders like Moshe Dayan tried their hand as amateur archaeologists. There are still plenty of things left to find in the ground, and visitors to Israel can take part in a current archaeological dig. The shortest option is two hours long, in the Temple Mount Sifting Project in Jerusalem. For a longer dig, try Dig for a Day in Beit Guvrin. There are also many organized archaeological digs where you can volunteer for a period of weeks or a semester – for a list, see here .
• Rafting on the northern Jordan River.
• Rappelling or off-roading in the Negev .

• Clubbing in Tel Aviv
• Skiing at the Hermon snow resort (open only in mid-winter)

Many Israeli website guides have an English version and can be used for making plans:

• Tiuli — hiking and field trips
• Israel National Trail — Maps and other resources
• Timeout - Digital edition
• TripAdvisor

Backpacking

Israel is not a big backpacking/hosteling country. In addition, hitchhiking is not that common anymore (though still possible), which makes it hard and time-consuming for a traveler on a shoestring to save money.

Whereas in the West Bank or Jordan it is common to get a discount when turning up at an accommodation directly, in Israel only a few hostels appreciate such or direct bookings without using the monopolistic middle man . And you might even end up paying more when turning up out of the blue.

Many beautiful nature sites in Israel have been converted into national parks, which demand an entrance fee of ₪20-40. There is a combined park ticket available, which might save you some money if you plan to visit 10 or more over a couple of weeks. This makes it even harder for backpackers who are out in the open very often and just want to let themselves drift through the country.

However, besides those troubles, there are some great hikes and nature spots in Israel (even for free), and many free camping options if you bring a tent.

Israel is expensive. Prices are similar to the upper end prices of western and northern Europe.

Money and payments

Israel's currency is the New Israeli Shekel (שקל חדש or ש"ח), which is often known simply as the Shekel . It is shortened in English to ILS or NIS. It's denoted by the symbol ₪. One shekel is 100 agorot. The plural of "shekel" in Hebrew is "shkalim".

The coins in use are 10 agorot, ₪1/2 (copper), ₪1, ₪2, ₪5 (nickel) and ₪10 (bi-metallic; copper core, nickel rim). Banknotes in use are ₪20, ₪50, ₪100 and ₪200.

Contactless mobile/card payments with Google Pay, Apple Pay, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover are widely accepted and commonly used. Card payments (but not mobile payments) over 300 shekels require PIN code verification.

Smaller shops may not accept mobile/card payments, but it's okay to ask. Self-service at fuel pumps requires a physical card.

Only some taxi drivers accept mobile/card payments. If you prefer not paying drivers directly, Uber and Gett apps operate in Israel.

If using cash, avoid using large bills for small charges. Avoid using foreign currencies, it will be at a rip-off exchange rate.

ATMs are available everywhere. Some ATMs have usage fees (they are displayed).

A VAT of 17% is included in most prices. You can get VAT refunds when leaving the country, though be prepared to queue at the airport. VAT refunds are only granted for individual receipts in excess of ₪400 and subject to a few other conditions. Eilat is a VAT-free city for citizens as well as for foreigners, but being a resort city it is often more expensive to begin with. See VAT refund guidelines at the Israel government services portal and consult the Israel Post website , which provides the refund.

Outside of the food industry, tipping is not common. The norm for waiters is a 15% tip unless the service was horribly disrespectful. In bars where you sit down at the bar, tip 15%. In fast food restaurants, food stands, and in bars where you order your drink and go, don't tip.

In some fine-dining restaurants or when large groups are involved, it's possible for the service charge to be included in the bill. If this is the case, don't tip.

Food delivery tip is commonly 10 shekels if service is good. For food app deliveries (e.g. Wolt) and restaurants that add a delivery charge, it's becoming less common to tip.

Israelis do not tip taxi drivers. Some taxi drivers attempt to guilt tourists to tip.

Similarly to the US, inappropriate tip solicitation has become widespread (tip jars, tipping screens, etc.). It's always okay not to tip when being solicited for tips. Never tip at tipping screens.

Business hours

Israelis work five days a week, Sunday through Thursday. Friday and Saturday are considered the weekend, though schools are open Friday morning.

In Jewish areas, most shops are closed on the Sabbath (Shabbat), from sundown on Friday until sundown on Saturday. Shops are open Friday, but typically will close at about 14:30–15:00 with some shops closing as early as 12:00. Many shops, especially in malls, will re-open on Saturday evening, at about 19:00 in winter, and 20:30 in summer. Some shops, especially in Tel Aviv or outside city limits or in tourist areas, as well as 24-hour convenience stores (mostly found in fuel stations), remain open on Saturdays. In Arab towns, shops are generally open 7 days a week.

Shops in malls and on major shopping streets are generally open 09:30–21:00 daily. Banks, post offices, and some smaller shops follow unusual opening hours, so it's best to check.

Markets usually open and close early.

Bargaining in Israel is relatively common. A general guideline: sales agents, exaggerated prices, or no displayed prices – bargain. Anything that looks established or corporate – don't. In shops with displayed prices where you are not dealing with a sales agent – don't.

Bargaining in bazaars and rural markets is common yet subtle. Vigorous bargaining which is common in some countries will likely get you nowhere and is improper. If you are given a fair price, don't bargain for sport – it is frowned upon. Prices in tourist traps such as the Old City of Jerusalem can routinely be haggled down to as low as 25% of the asking price. Be sure to go shopping on your own, as some guides receive a commission for bringing in business.

Price comparison sites are Zap or Ret .

If you are bringing a large group of people to a club or a bar, it may be possible to negotiate a discount before arriving with the group. If you are already there, bargaining won't get you anything substantial.

Bargaining with taxi drivers over fare is possible, though rarely to your advantage. It is best to instruct them to use the meter ("moneh") if they don't already do so as required by law.

While many popular dishes in Israel are typical of Middle Eastern cuisine , its cuisine is as diverse as the population. Food is generally of a very high standard, and immigrants from around the world brought almost every genre and type of food to Israel. Kosher food is widely available. Even restaurants without Kosher certificates follow some guidelines of Kashrut to some extent. Tipping is very common in sit-in places that have waiters – not tipping in sit-in restaurants is frowned upon, but is accepted for signaling atrocious service. It is standard to give 10%–15% (or more for exceptional service). A 20% tip is considered generous. Including a service charge in the bill is no longer legal in Israel and should not be paid. Restaurants may charge a "security fee" – roughly ₪1–2 per person. However, this fee is not mandatory, and it is common to ask for the fee to be removed from the bill, as well you should. Most restaurants accept credit cards, but do not accept personal checks. If you wish to include the tip in your credit card charge, state this before paying. Restaurants are required to allow this.

Perhaps surprisingly, most culinary items that are typically associated with Jewish cuisine in much of the English-speaking world, such as bagels and pastrami, are not widespread in Israel, though they can still be found in eateries operated by American or Canadian immigrants.

If you need an English menu, ask for a "tafrit b'anglit".

Fast and popular

Israelis tend to consider falafel and hummus as national dishes, although these dishes do not originate in Israel and are eaten throughout the Levant region. A serving of Falafel includes falafel balls, which are small fried balls of mashed chickpeas and/or fava beans, usually served inside a pita bread (or its larger cousin, the lafa bread) with hummus-chips-salat (hummus, French fries and vegetable salad) and tahini. A selection of more salads is usually available, and you can fill your pita with as much as it can take. This is usually the cheapest lunch available (₪10–15), and it's vegetarian (and often vegan). You can also order half a serving ("hatzi mana"). If you don't know which falafel joint to go to, pick one with a good flow of customers, because falafel balls are tastiest when extremely fresh. Hummus is a popular dip made of chickpea granules and various additions (such as olive oil, fresh garlic, lemon juice and tahini) and usually eaten with pieces of pita. At places that specialize in Hummus (commonly referred to as "hummusiot"), you can find the dish topped with chopped lamb, fried chicken breast, and many other different toppings, such as cooked masabacha grains, shakshuka, ground beef, pine nuts, fried onions, mushrooms, etc.

Another popular option is shawarma – sliced turkey or lamb meat, also served inside a pita/lafa with hummus-chips-salat toppings. Many other things can fit your pita: for example, Me'orav Yerushalemi (Jerusalemite mix), which contain several types of offal meat, or perhaps even schnitzel, a batter fried chicken breast which is somewhat inspired by the Viennese original.

Another street food gaining popularity is the Iraqi-origin sabikh : a pita bread stuffed with a hard boiled egg, batter-dipped deep fried eggplant, hummus, tehini, potatoes, and salad.

Dietary restrictions

Due to the taboo against pork in Judaism and Islam, pork is rare in Israel, and the import of live pigs and pork products is illegal. That said, exceptions are made for the Christian minority to rear pigs and produce pork products domestically, so pork can be found at shops and restaurants catering to the Christian community, but expect to pay a steep premium for it.

Kosher food

Israeli cuisine is heavily influenced by the ancient Jewish laws of kosher food. The word kosher means anything that is allowed by Jewish religious laws, in this case food laws. Among other things kashrut requires complete segregation of meat and dairy foods, dishes and utensils; select types of fish are kosher but most 'sea foods' are not; meat must undergo a ritual slaughter process; and all foods must be prepared under controlled and monitored conditions. Kosher restaurants and hotels display a valid, dated certificate issued by local rabbinical authorities; kosher restaurants close for the Shabbat. Because of the meat-and-milk restrictions, kosher restaurants bill themselves as either בשרי ( b'sari , "meat") or חלבי ( chalavi , dairy). Dairy restaurants will also serve fish (as Jewish law does not consider fish to be meat), and egg products. If you find cheeseburgers or pizzas with meat toppings in a kosher restaurant, they are made from soy or other substitutes for either the meat or the cheese.

Due to the secular nature of much of Israel, both kosher and non-kosher foods and restaurants can be found. Restaurants in Arab areas rarely follow kosher laws (unless they cater to a mixed clientele), though they often follow halal laws (the Muslim equivalent).

Except some boutique hotels, all the hotels in Israel observe kosher rules. Breakfast is dairy: meat at breakfast – especially bacon and sausages – is impossible to find in hotels and cafes in Israel. On the other hand, during lunch and dinner you'll not be able to get milk for your coffee or butter for your bread (although soy milk and spread are common substitutes). Most big supermarkets sell only kosher products, but more and more non-kosher supermarkets and convenience stores have appeared, due in part to the many secular Jews who have immigrated from the former USSR. With restaurants, things vary by location: in Tel Aviv a large proportion of restaurants are non-kosher, while in West Jerusalem nearly all restaurants are kosher. Restaurants that remain open on Shabbat cannot receive kosher certification. So some restaurants serve kosher food while not being certified, but not every restaurant that claims this is strict about the other kosher rules.

One attraction for practicing Jewish (and other) tourists is the kosher McDonald's restaurants. Most of the branches are not kosher, so ask before ordering. Burger Ranch, an Israeli burger chain, is kosher. Pizza Hut branches in Israel are kosher, and thus will not serve pizzas with meat toppings, while Domino's chains are not kosher, and serve a toppings selection similar to their Western branches.

One pitfall with finding kosher food is that some con-men have found they can make money by selling fake kashrut certificates. Therefore, someone looking for kosher food should look for a certificate from the local rabbinate or a recognized kashrut agency. Certificates from unknown organizations should not be relied upon.

The word for kosher is pronounced kasher (כָּשֵר) in Modern Hebrew, while the Hebrew word for "fitness" is Kosher (in Israel, gyms are known as kheder kosher , i.e. fitness room ). The words have the same root – kosher food is food that is "fit" to eat for religious Jews.

Dietary restrictions during Passover

Another series of strict restrictions come into force during the seven days of Passover, when leavened bread ( Hametz ) — taken to include any grain product that may have come into contact with moisture and thus started fermenting — is banned. The religiously defined limit is 18 minutes. Any grain product that's come into contact with water for more than 18 minutes is considered "hametz". Some Jews even widen the ban to cover rice and legumes. The main substitute for the bread is matza , the famously dry and tasteless flatbread, and you can even get a matzoburger from McDonald's during Passover.

Religious sectors will completely remove Hametz from their properties. Because the restriction is only for 7 days, many shops don't remove Hametz from shelves and vending machines, but only cover them or visually hide them. In more observant shops, cashier machines will not recognize the Hametz products during Passover, so it'd be hard to purchase them even after they are un-hidden. Note that as hametz owned by Jews must be nominally sold to a non-Jew before the holiday and cannot be repurchased on the Sabbath, many restaurants that are normally open on Shabbat will be closed the day after Passover when it falls on a Saturday, or will continue to serve their Passover menu.

Prominent local snacks

Ethnic food

Jews immigrating to Israel from different parts of the world brought with them many different cooking traditions. Most of these are now served in a handful of specialty restaurants, so check the individual chapters and ask around. Among the selection: Ashkenazi (Eastern European Jewish), Bulgarian, Turkish, North African, Iraqi, Iranian, Indian and Ethiopian. One can also enjoy excellent local Arab cuisine served in areas with large Arab populations, mostly in the north of the country and in the vicinity of Jerusalem.

One dish, however, is known across nearly the entire Jewish Diaspora. Known in Europe as Cholent and in the Middle East and North Africa as Chamin , it is a sort of stew that has simmered for many hours over a low fire. It is traditionally a Shabbat dish, originating from the prohibition on lighting fire and cooking on Shabbat. The exact ingredients vary, but it usually contains meat (usually beef or chicken), legumes (chickpeas or beans) and\or rice, eggs, and vegetables such as potatoes, onions, and carrots. Chamin is served in some restaurants on Saturday, and can be bought in delicatessens on Friday.

Most Israelis enjoy instant coffee and will order it in restaurants and shops. The quality of this coffee is often quite high. However, Israelis also appreciate a café culture . While concoctions such as "botz" (mud) coffee, also known as "cafe turki" or Turkish coffee (an inexpensive extra-finely ground coffee, often spiced with cardamom, that is cooked on a stove and served unfiltered/unstrained) are popular, the coffee culture in Israel has become refined and the quality has drastically increased in the last couple of decades. High quality espresso has replaced instant coffee as the base of most coffee drinks. There are several highly popular local coffee chains and numerous independent coffee shops. Many Israelis like to just spend time sipping their café latté (the most popular coffee in cafés) and chatting with friends. You can also have a light meal with sandwiches and salads. Aroma is Israel's largest coffee chain that has good coffee. You can order sandwiches there in three sizes and choose from three types of bread. Arcaffé is slightly more expensive, but their coffee is a little better. Other chains include Elite Coffee , cafe cafe , Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf , and Cafe Hillel (of which some branches are Kosher dairy). Israelis frown upon US-style coffee, and Starbucks failed miserably in Israel because their coffee was considered inferior by the locals.

Vegetarians and vegans

Vegetarians and vegans should have a relatively easy time eating in Israel. Due to the kosher law against mixing meat and milk, there are many "dairy" restaurants that serve no meat, which makes them popular with vegetarians. Be aware that these often serve fish. In some parts of the country you can also find vegan restaurants. Amirim is a vegetarian/vegan village in the Upper Galilee with several restaurants. "Israeli Salad" (sometimes called Arab or Chopped salad) is a chopped salad of finely diced tomato and cucumber. It is very common and can be found virtually in every food-serving establishment. It is common for sit-down restaurants to indicate on their menus which dishes are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free.

Alcoholic beverages

The drinking age in Israel is 18 . Drinking and driving is illegal and actively prosecuted. Also, sale of alcohol outside of bars and restaurants and public drinking are prohibited between 23:00 and 05:00.

The most active nightlife can be found in Tel Aviv and Eilat. Tel Aviv, "the city that never sleeps", is Israel's party capital with a vast number of bars and clubs. Compared to much of Europe, drinking is rather expensive and the steep prices in Tel Aviv in particular are sometimes cited as a reason for the rather large community of young Israeli expats in Berlin .

There are three main brands of Israeli beer:

• Goldstar — a Munich-style dark draught, it is the most popular Israeli beer in Israel. Can be found in bottles and cans of 0.5 and 0.3 liters (1 pint and half a pint, respectively), or חצי KHE-tsi and שליש shlish (Hebrew for "half" and "third". Referring to the amount based on litres, as Israel uses SI units). It is also available from tap (מהחבית meh ha-kha-VIT , Hebrew for "from the barrel"). Some say it pairs deliciously with Bissli, a snack food indigenous to the area.
• Maccabee — a pilsner, lighter and smoother than Goldstar. Comes in bottles, cans or from tap. This beer has a bad reputation in Israel as being of foul taste. Its recipe has been changed and the beer has been regaining popularity in Israel. Still, due to its bad reputation many bars do not serve it. The local variety of Maccabee tastes differently than the exported one.
• Nesher — comes in bottles, mostly malt.

Palestinian beers are also available:

• Taybeh — made in the first micro-brewery in the Middle East, "Taybeh Beer Brewery" is from Taybeh village, a short taxi ride distance from Ramallah , an extremely fresh and delicious beer that is popular with many Palestinians, Israelis and tourists alike. It is mainly found in Israeli Arab communities, Jerusalem, and Palestinian cities. Taybeh Brewery offers free tours of the facilities and has ₪5 beers for sale at the brewery. Taybeh village also hosts its very own Oktoberfest-style beer festival held annually during the first week of October. The festival well-attended with foreign tourists and is growing in popularity.

Lately, several brands of micro-breweries have established themselves, and a wide selection of boutique beers such as Sins-Brewery, Bazelet, Golda, Laughing Buddha, Asif, Dancing Camel and many others can be found in selected alcohol houses and in some chain retail stores.

In addition, a wide variety of international brands are available throughout Israel, some of which are locally brewed. Among the most popular are Heineken, Carlsberg and Tuborg.

A common liqueur in Israel is Arak . It is clear, and anise-flavored, quite similar to Pastis or the Colombian Aguardiente. It is usually served in a glass of about 0.3   L, mixed with equal amount of water and ice leading to a characteristic milk-like opaqueness. Some like to drink it mixed with grapefruit juice. Arak is usually kept in the freezer. A common brand is called Aluf Ha-Arak and Elit Ha-Arak (both of the same distillery) with the former of higher alcohol per volume and the latter of stronger anise flavor. They are of slightly different volume although the price is accordingly different.

There are several local big vineyards and a growing selection of boutique ones, some of them of high quality. Wine is mentioned in the Torah and Israeli winemaking tradition goes back to before the Roman conquest . Much of Israeli wine is kosher. Kosher wine has historically had a terrible reputation that is mostly unjustified in the 21st century and has been fading due to the good quality of many kosher wines becoming more widely known among connoisseurs and the wider public alike. The Golan Heights are among the premier wine growing regions under Israeli control.

Soft drinks

Most of the regular Western soft drinks are available, and many have local variants that aren't very different in taste. The Coca-Cola Company, RC Cola, and PepsiCo fight for the soft drink market aggressively. Israeli Coca-Cola is thought by Cola connoisseurs to be tastier and more authentic than elsewhere, because it is made with sugar, not with high-fructose corn syrup. Tempo (not to be confused with Tempo Industries, Ltd. which is the brewer of most Israeli beer and bottler of most soft drinks including the local Pepsi) and Super Drink are dirt-cheap local variants, at times sporting very weird tastes.

The generic name for Coke or Pepsi is "cola", and it usually implies Coca-Cola; if the place serves Pepsi, they will usually ask if it's fine. "Soda" generally means "soda water", and is not a generic name for carbonated soft drinks.

There are several more authentic soft drinks:

• Tropit — cheap fruit flavor drink which is usually grape. Comes in a tough aluminum-like bag with a straw. The bag is poked using the straw to make a hole through which you drink. A very portable drink (until holed), which has become very popular in summer camps. In the newer varieties there is a marked area where the straw should be inserted. Even then it can sometimes take practice to insert the straw without the juice squirting out, it's similar to "Capri Sun."
• Chocolate milk — there are a number of brands of sterilized chocolate milk (SHO-ko) which comes in plastic bags and small cartons. The tip of the bag is bitten or clipped off, and the milk is sucked out. As with Tropit, it is very portable (although due to its milky nature, not as much) until opened, after which it is impractical to reseal. Chocolate milk in a bag is usually served cold, and it would be a very bad idea to warm it.
• Spring Nectar — fruit flavored drinks that come in cans or 1.5L bottles. Sold in most supermarkets, convenience stores and petrol stations, as well as many take-away stands. Comes in a number of flavors such as peach, mango, and strawberry.
• Prigat — fruit flavored drink that comes in plastic bottles. Is sold at pretty much every supermarket, petrol station and corner-store around Israel. Comes in many flavors including grape, orange, apple, tomato and a few more exotic options as well.
• Primor — fruit juice in plastic bottles. Sold pretty much everywhere. Comes in many flavors, mostly citrus and apples.

Israel is host to a huge variety of accommodation options, from camping and hostels through to 5-star luxury hotels. Accommodation in Israel is similar to Western standards in general both in terms of price and what you can expect as service. Hotels in Israel do not have star ratings, so beware that where these are seen, they are awarded by the hotels themselves.

Hostel/hotel owners in Israel do not appreciate it when you turn up onsite and ask for the best price leaving out the monopolistic middle man. Hence, you should instead book online (through their website, or one of the many commercial websites) or by phone, and take the best price you can get. Also, accommodations seem to use confusing US$ quotes and then demand shekels on purpose to prevent comparability. Make sure to always get the shekel (NIS) quote and demand to pay what was agreed on in shekels.

There are many free camp grounds available in Israel, especially in the Negev , which offer a great alternative to save some money. Most of the time you won't even need a tent, because rain and mosquitoes (and such) are sparse in the Negev.

Further remarks:

• Israel Hostels ( ILH ) , a network of 40 independent hostels, guest houses and lodges designed for independent travellers. They hand out visiting cards you can use at the next ILH to get 5% discount, so ask for them. Even so, make sure to confirm the price beforehand by calling or online, the quoted prices from their website/flyers do not always seem to be reliable.
• Israel Youth Hostel Association ( IYHA ) runs a thriving network of youth hostels, but is generally more expensive than the former one.
• The Israel Hotel Association (IHA) [ dead link ] is the umbrella organization for Israel's hotels and also represents them. About 350 hotels, from Metulla in the North to Eilat in the South, are members of the IHA.
• A large number of kibbutzim now include bed and breakfast accommodation among their activities.
• A number of private residencies (popular in northern communities) offer a room to let (commonly known as "zimmer", from the German word for room).
• Israel has a number of 3–4 star hotel chains.
• Israel has a large number of boutique hotels and one large chain of boutique hotels, Atlas Hotels
• In the Negev Desert, there are multiple Bedouin camps that offer shelter and an unforgettable desert experience. You may be able to ride a camel, depending on the camp.
• Due to a Jewish religious prohibition on couples sharing a bed during certain periods in the woman's menstrual cycle, most king-sized beds at hotels are actually two smaller beds pushed together, which can be separated if necessary. It is therefore possible for two travellers who are not in a romantic relationship to book a room with one king bed if nothing else is available, then separate it into two separate beds.

Traditional Jewish culture places a strong emphasis on education and scholarship, and the country has many well-regarded universities. Special programs for students from abroad are offered by the Rothberg International School at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem , the Lowy School for Overseas Students at Tel-Aviv University and the Ginsburg-Ingerman Center for International Student Programs [ dead link ] at the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Be'er Sheva . Also the Technion in Haifa and Recanati International School [ dead link ] in the Interdisciplinary Centre in Herzliya [ dead link ] offer international programmes for foreign students.

The International School for Holocaust Studies [ dead link ] at Yad Vashem [ dead link ] in West Jerusalem also offers a variety of educational options relating to the Holocaust or you could also use your time in Israel to study Hebrew. Hebrew school is called Ulpan (pl. Ulpanim ).

There are even ways to learn Hebrew online from outside Israel - try Hebrew Online Guide [ dead link ] , or Virtual Ulpan if you want some basic background for free. A good starting point for finding more information on study and volunteering programs, can be found on the website of the World Zionist Organization .

If you are interested in learning firsthand about the social, political and cultural aspects of life in Israel, there are several programs and organizations offering courses, workshops or learning tours, such as: The All Nations Café [ dead link ] in the Jerusalem - Bethlehem area.

If you are Jewish and plan on moving to Israel ( aliyah ), you will have more help finding a job. Generally speaking, it is close to impossible to immigrate to Israel unless you are Jewish or married to an Israeli citizen. Non-Jewish foreigners are typically restricted to working in Israel for no more than 5 years.

One of the iconic activities in Israel is working ("volunteering") on a collective farm: a kibbutz or a moshav .

Another popular option is to volunteer for work on an archaeological excavation , mostly conducted in summer at a variety of locations. Most Israeli excavations offer college/degree credit for international students.

Working on a tourist visa is illegal.

Emergency phone numbers:

• Police (mish-ta-RA) — 100
• Ambulance Service ("Magen David Adom"-MADA, literally "Red Star of David") — 101
• Fire department (me-kha-BEY ESH) — 102
• Home Front Command (civil defense) — 104
• A list of rights for people who have been harmed during 2024 fighting, along with physical and mental support centers, is provided at the National Insurance website .

When there is no fighting on the Lebanese or Gaza Strip borders, travel to Israel is quite safe, and crime rates are well below those found in most other Western countries. Some Palestinians have deliberately driven cars or other vehicles into crowds waiting for the Jerusalem Light Rail, for example. However, statistically, the chances of being involved in a traffic accident are much higher than the chances of being involved in an attack.

It is still a good idea to stay informed of developments before and during your stay. Caution should be used particularly in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and areas surrounding the Gaza Strip (particularly the cities of Sderot and Ashkelon, which have been targeted by rockets from the Strip). If you see anyone acting suspiciously, or find an unattended parcel, notify the police. Also, never leave a bag unattended in a public area, as it may be suspected as a bomb.

Police in Israel wear light blue or very dark navy clothing with flat caps, while Israeli Border Police (similar in function to Gendarmerie) wear dark grey uniforms with green berets or police ball caps. It is not unusual to see plenty of soldiers (and sometimes civilians) carrying firearms (military rifles and handguns) in public. Most of these soldiers are simply on leave from their base. Soldiers have no authority over civilians, except in specially designated zones near borders or military bases, where they are allowed to detain you until the arrival of a police officer.

In terms of typical crime, Israel is a very safe country with one of the lowest crime rates in the world. You can walk around the cities and towns at night without fear, as mugging and drunken violence are rare. Single women should still take care late at night, but the risks here are far lower than practically anywhere in Europe and America.

It is very common (even required by law) to see private armed security guards at every public doorway (for malls, stores, restaurants, etc.). The guards ask to look in your bags and may use a metal-detector on your body. When entering underground parking lots, the trunk of your car will be inspected. Do not be alarmed: this is just national policy. If you carry a huge backpack, you can often get away with showing a passport, and the guards will be just as relieved as you.

Israel's relations with its neighbors should always be something that a traveler should be familiar with, as evidenced by the Israeli–Lebanese conflict of 2006. Despite the current ceasefire there remains a low danger that the conflict will again erupt. Israel has stable relations with both Egypt and Jordan, with which Israel signed peace treaties in 1979 and 1994 respectively. The frontier between the Israeli-ruled part of the Golan Heights and Syria has also generally been quiet since 1974, but there have been attempts by Hezbollah to place missile batteries in the Syrian-controlled part of the Golan Heights, and some stray rockets from the Syrian civil war have hit the Israeli-controlled part of the Golan Heights.

Fighting and hostilities resumed in mid-2014 between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip , affirming that all travel to the Gaza Strip area should be avoided, and in the past several noted foreigners (even volunteers) have been kidnapped by armed militants during escalations. As of spring 2024 there is a full-scale Israeli invasion, with the intent of eliminating Hamas; 1–2% of the population have been killed. Israel does not allow travel to the Strip; the only way in is via Egypt. And even then, Egypt keeps the border shut most of the time. You might have better luck if you're a journalist, though.

Because of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and Muslim-Jewish disputes over the status of the Temple Mount/Haram el-Sharif, violent clashes can sometimes break out in and around that holy place, and these often include stones being thrown at Jewish worshippers at the Western Wall below. Check on current conditions before going to that part of the Old City of Jerusalem.

Hiking trails in southern Israel (and in the Golan) are adjacent to military fire practice areas. If you are not certain where you are going, do not hike in this region. These firing areas are marked on the official hiking maps.

On a similar note, especially near border areas, hiking or leaving the roadways, be aware of standing and fallen fences with a sign (yellow with a red triangle on it). These areas are considered off limits due to the possibility of land mines being present. It could take another 100 years to clear out all those areas. Also refer to the War zone safety article.

If it's raining or there's a possibility of rain in the area, do not hike in or near rivers or in the desert. Flash floods are common and dangerous. They are very sudden. If you're hiking in a river bed or in a low area and it starts raining, immediately seek higher ground. Stay away from river banks next to fast moving waters as they tend to collapse unexpectedly.

Rocket attacks

When a rocket attack is detected as being fired towards Israel, alerts are provided in several means:

• A rising-and-falling audible siren alarm
• Notification messages on smartphone apps
• TV notification – major TV channels show an overlay with an orange colored notification

Smartphone apps that provide such an alarm work either by GPS location, or pre-defined alert location. Some of these apps are:

• Home Front Command - Official App‏ . provides alerts, the official and up-to-date guidelines and information in real time according to location and areas of interest, along with updates during emergencies. The App is available in Hebrew, Arabic, Russian and English. Their website includes real-time alerts (as do most Israeli news websites), additional information, and one week alerts log. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• Tzofar-Red Alert ( צופר צבע אדום ). An additional app, with google-chrome extention, and web-page alerts. ( updated Oct 2023 )
• Red Alert:Israel

Please note that due to the need to stay online 24/7 these apps may prevent devices from going into energy-saving and data-saving modes (depends on device and capabilities), so they may drain faster than usual.

Upon receiving an alert for a rocket attack, the time you have to defend yourself may vary. As a general rule, the closer you are to the launch site the less time you have following the start of the alert. If you are in a border town, for example, you only have fifteen seconds before the rocket lands.

When an alarm sounds, you must take cover according to these instructions:

• Enter a nearby Shelter. Depending on the building the shelter can be inside apartments, a shared shelter for every floor in the building, or a shared basement shelter for the entire building. About half of all buildings in Israel have a shelter, and there are public shelters available in many common areas within Israeli cities. If you are in public, look for where other people go.
• In a building without a shelter, enter the most protected room. This may be the inner-most room, or a staircase (when it is not external) or innermost roomIf you are in a building, be sure to note where your nearest shelter is.
• when outside head for a building, and place yourself as far as you can from windows, or other fragile objects near the windows.
• When no building is nearby, lie down on your belly and put your hands on your head.

The complete list of instructions is available on HFC's website .

The most powerful rockets are capable of hitting nearly anywhere in the country, but most of the rockets impact:

• In case of a conflict with the Gaza Strip, within a radius between Ashkelon in the west, Jerusalem in the east, Beersheba in the south, and Tel Aviv in the north.
• In case of a conflict with Lebanon's Hezbollah, the area near or north of Haifa.

If you are within these areas, be alert, and outside of these areas still be vigilant, as rockets from Gaza have hit Haifa, the Negev desert, and even the West Bank in the past.

Israel's "Iron Dome" launches missiles to intercept incoming rockets, but only when they are headed toward populated areas. Also, it is not 100% effective, and even when it registers a "hit" it creates shrapnel which eventually reaches the ground.

Make sure to check the calendar for memorial days, when a commemoration siren is heard at 10:00 for 2 minutes during Holocaust Remembrance Day, and on Yom-Hazikaron at 20:00 for one minute and at 11:00 for two more minutes. Commemoration sirens don't rise and fall. In general, behave the way others around you do.

Gay and lesbian

Unlike many parts of the Middle East, homosexuality is legal in Israel. In fact, some gay rights advances happened in Israel earlier than in Western countries such as the US. Attitudes towards homosexuality will vary depending on where you go, but in general, Israel is considered safe for gays and lesbians, as violence is rare and open disapproval is mostly confined to certain parts of Jerusalem and religious neighborhoods.

All 3 major cities (Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and Haifa) have an annual "Pride" parade, and the annual Love Parade in Tel Aviv gets cheering spectators too. Though Jerusalem has an annual pride parade, it is not very common to see openly gay people in Jerusalem, and you should avoid openly showing your sexual orientation in most public places in Jerusalem or other visibly religious places. In general just try to avoid public displays of homosexual affection or conversation in a direct or suggestive manner in Jerusalem. While nothing serious is likely to happen to you, it will draw stares and identify you as a "tourist" at the very least.

On the other hand, Tel Aviv is very liberal and gay friendly. It is common to see same-sex couples show affection in public areas. Tel Aviv was declared as the world's best gay travel destination for 2012 in a survey carried out by American Airlines and GayCities.com for good reason: there are many gay friendly places around the city, considered a stronghold of the gay community in Israel. Tel Aviv's nights are full of hundreds of passionate, energetic pubs, bars and dance clubs that are open till dawn. The city is active in all areas of entertainment, and is highly recommended for tourists looking for exciting nightlife in general, and exciting gay nightlife in particular.

Stay healthy

There are no special medical issues in Israel, and no immunizations are required for entry. Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended, though. Travelers to West Bank and Gaza should strongly consider getting a typhoid vaccine and Hepatitis B vaccine as well.

Pharmacies and hospitals are available in all major cities and emergency and health care is to a very high Western standard. Pharmacists and all medical personnel speak adequate English. In Israeli pharmacies, the "over-the-counter" stuff is in fact over the counter. Ask the pharmacist if you need anything. Travel health insurance is highly recommended; although all Israelis are covered under the national health insurance system, foreigners will be expected to pay for any treatment received in the public hospitals or at a clinic.

Tap water is potable and perfectly safe for drinking all throughout Israel (but not in the West Bank or Gaza), big cities and rural parts alike. However, avoid taps that you might find within cultivated fields (e.g. while hiking); they may use recycled water which is only good for irrigation. Tap water near the Dead Sea is heavily salinated and hotels will typically provide bottles of water for guests.

Street food is safe and clean, including fried dishes, fish and different salads. It still is wise to use common sense and avoid anything suspicious.

The hot climate in Israel is a major issue, especially at summer. Use sunscreen throughout your stay and drink a lot of water. See also sunburn and sun protection .

In desert and rural areas

Southern Israel desert region offers amazing hiking trails in a beautiful landscape that possesses some unique geographical features not available anywhere else in the world. However, if you are inexperienced in hiking in the desert, do not hike there without an experienced hiker, proper equipment and clothes, plenty of water, and taking the necessary precautions. Dehydration on hot days, hypothermia on cold nights, and flash floods on rainy days are serious dangers!

Israel has numerous newspapers, radio stations, podcasts, and magazines.

In English:

• The Times of Israel . A newer Jerusalem-based online newspaper published in English, Arabic, French and Persian, that doesn't have a printed edition. Generally centrist.  

Other major Israeli newspapers that have an English language section to their websites include:

Other languages:

• Makan ( قناة مكان ). Arabic edition of Kan corporations.  

Local newspapers in other languages may be available where demand exists.

Radio and TV

• Virtually all TV stations present all TV shows in their original language, along with Hebrew subtitles (sometimes with additional Russian or Arabic subtitles). The common exceptions are shows for young kids, which are dubbed to Hebrew.
• It is common to randomly find other Israeli radio stations broadcasting interviews and complete radio shows in English.

Embassies and consulates

Most foreign embassies are situated in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area, largely because the status of the capital city, Jerusalem , is disputed. Only five countries have embassies in Jerusalem: the United States , Honduras , Guatemala , Kosovo and Papua New Guinea .

From a practical standpoint, consulates often offer similar services for travelers as embassies, and most first world countries have a consulate in Jerusalem in addition to their embassy in Tel Aviv.

In general, Israelis are friendly, hospitable, and welcoming. The country as a whole has a Western-oriented outlook on life. Foreign visitors are deeply appreciated by the locals and they will do just about anything to make you feel comfortable and welcome in the country. Strangers will be more than happy to assist you, help you with anything you need, inquire about you and your background, and give you advice on anything. If you manage to make some friends here, they will do their best to take care of you here.

There's no way to sugarcoat it, so let's cut to the chase: yes, Israelis in general are direct communicators . This style of communication (known as 'dugriut') is a feature of the Israeli cultural ethos and can be construed as rude, abrupt, or confrontational in many parts of the world. Try not to be offended or annoyed by the way Israelis speak to you; in most cases, Israelis rarely intend to offend you in any way, shape, or form. Directness and honesty are often valued over projections of niceness.

Israel is an egalitarian society. Because it's a society that thrives on transparent communication, it's not uncommon for subordinates to disagree with their superiors. It's perfectly normal, and is expected.

Loud and heated debates and arguments are socially acceptable and should not be taken as a sign of hostility. Israelis are typically careful not to be perceived as a fraier , often translated as "sucker", meaning someone who pays too much, stands in line quietly as others jostle past, and is generally taken advantage of instead of standing up for himself.

In religious settings, appropriate attitudes and prohibitions should be in order. Entry to most religious sites will be refused to those who aren't dressed appropriately (e.g. wearing shorts, short skirts, tank tops, and so on). When visiting a synagogue or the prayers section of the Western Wall, men should cover their heads. If you don't have one, a kiosk by the door of the site you are visiting may provide you with one. Mosques will also require you to take off your shoes before entry. Outside locations significant to religion, dress is very casual and free. Israeli women dress to impress.

On Holocaust Remembrance Day and Yom HaZikaron, sirens sound for two minutes at 10:00 and the whole country comes to a stop and stand in respect for the victims.

Sensitive issues

The Arab-Israeli conflict is an emotional issue for many, as is the Holocaust/Shoah , as well as much of Jewish history in general. (One should be especially respectful to the Holocaust/Shoah as many Israelis are grandchildren of survivors, and most if not all of the Ashkenazi ("European") Jews who make up 50% of Israel's Jewish population lost family members during the Holocaust.)

• Surface and sea mail . Postcards to Europe cost ₪3.20. This is still an option, even though many will try to make you believe the ₪7.40 airmail is the only option. However, just go to the post office and demand the cheaper stamp. Be insistent and refer to the price sheet they have posted within the post office or online – there you will find the international surface mail option listed. ( updated Sep 2021 )
• Air mail . Postcards and letters up to weight of 100 g cost between ₪6.50 and ₪9, depending on the country of destination. ( updated Sep 2021 )

+972 is the international country code for Israel.

When calling inside Israel, you can either dial the number exactly as listed in Wikivoyage from mobiles and many landlines or replace the "+972" part with a single leading 0. (In the first form, you dial the number without spaces and hyphens, optionally replacing the "+" symbol with the international access code; when the party being called is in the same country as the caller, internationally-dialed numbers are looped back at the base station.) For example, when calling +972 2 345 6789 inside Israel, dial 02 345 6789 or +97223456789 as-is, or 0097223456789.

The type of call influences its price. Types can be international (with different price per each destination country in each service provider), local landline, landline - mobile, and mobile. Except for international calls, all other calls are usually priced the same, but you might find minor differences. Other than that, identifying the carrier of your call destination is irrelevant, as the allocation of dialing codes to particular companies may be inaccurate, since subscribers may keep their phone number even if leaving or changing their phone company. For example, new 050 codes are allocated by Pelephone company, but users can switch carriers and keep their 050 number even when receiving service from the Cellcom company which is usually identified with the 052 code.

Landline area codes:

• 0x - Area codes – the 0x area codes are used for land lines operated by the national phone company - Bezeq. Other landline operators have distinctive area codes
• 02 - Jerusalem area
• 03 - Tel Aviv-Yafo and the center
• 08 - South & Shfela
• 09 - Sharon
• 0x2 - Paltel (Palestinian operator)
• 07x - landlines operated by VoB and VoIP technologies with no distinction to a particular region. These may be assigned anywhere.
• 072 - 012 Smile
• 073-2/3/7 - Cellcom / Netvision
• 074-7 - Partner
• 076-5 - 014 Bezeq International

International access codes:

• 01x - International access codes – If you want to call abroad from Israel, you need to choose which company you want to use for your international call first.
• The '00' and '+' access codes for international calls are available only on phone lines that chose, in advance, one of the long distance carriers as their preferred provider. It is not available on pay phones.
• 011 - 011Global
• 013 - Cellcom / Netvision
• 014 - Bezeq International [ dead link ]
• 015 - Hallo
• 017 - Hot Mobile
• 018 - Xfone, a VOIP operator. Thus, it has the cheapest rate but a somewhat lower line quality.
• 019 - Telzar
• 05x - Cellular carriers
• 050 - Pelephone (literally "miracle phone", the first cellular operator in Israel. "Pelephone" has became a generic name for cellular phone in Israel).
• 052 - Cellcom
• 053 - HOT mobile [ dead link ]
• 054 - Partner
• 055 - MVNO (Mobile virtual network operators)
• 056 - Wataniya Mobile (Palestinian operator)
• 057 - Mirs. This was the old network of "HOT mobile". All those numbers replaced their prefix to 053 with the rest of the number unchanged. So if you try to reach an old 057 number, try dialing 053 instead.
• 058 - Golan Telecom
• 059 - Jawwal (Palestinian operator)

Some Israeli numbers have only 3, 4, or 5 digits and starting with a *. To dial those numbers you actually dial the number on the phone pad, including the *. For example, the number *8787 is used by the national public transportation information call center. These * numbers work depending on your operator, with most of the numbers supported in landlines, and partial support in cellular networks. Usually when a * number is published, a longer number is mentioned somewhere in the footnotes. The longer number is also the way to dial the number when calling from a foreign international line.

Cellphone rentals and prepaid phone service

You can rent a cellphone for use in Israel either before your trip or once you arrive, from several firms.

You can also rent smartphones with SIM cards included sometimes for lower than the cost of renting just a SIM card. This offers the advantages of a SIM card rental without having to worry about bringing your own phone to Israel.

If you have a cellphone without a SIM-lock, you can buy a SIM-card.

Prepaid SIM cards are available at Pelephone (Talk&Go), Cellcom (Talk Man), Partner (Bigtalk), HotMobile, Golan Telecom (GolanTalk), Rami-Levi, and 019 Telzar phone stores throughout Israel. Almost all shopping malls will have a Pelephone, Cellcom or Partner kiosk or store. Local prepaid packages valid for a month with 30G of data and 1,000 minutes of local calls should cost less than ₪100.

Prepaid websites in English:

• Hallo 015 , ☏ +1 646 335 0274 , toll-free: +1 800 015 015 , [email protected] . ( updated Mar 2021 )

Roaming with your own device

Israel is mostly covered with 4G and 5G. Other networks like CDMA2000 and iDen were shut down. Previous generation 2G and 3G networks have very limited coverage, and all of them are planned to be completely shut down by the end of 2024.

In any case, you must check with your carrier about the roaming option and the compatibility of your device in advance.

A valid suggestion otherwise is to turn off data services, especially any automatic update/download of your email. Otherwise you might get an unpleasant surprise on your next phone bill!

Buying a local SIM card is easy from many phone kiosks near popular tourist sites, perhaps even your hotel.

eSim is also available through SkyCall and other providers. Subscription packages in Israel can be cancelled at any time. You'd have to pay only for the relative time the subscription was active, without additional cancellation costs. There is no minimum time frame for any subsciption package.

Cellular internet is cheaper than in countries like the US, and it is recommended to use it along with your cell phone plan.

Free WiFi on buses and in cafes is common but not universal.

• Many travelers take day trips or longer trips to places in Jordan , such as Petra . It is easy to get into Jordan by crossing from Eilat to Aqaba , but also the King Hussein "Allenby" Bridge and the Sheikh Hussein bridge are options.
• Many Israelis visit the Sinai to scuba dive, but the area can be susceptible to terrorism, so check current conditions before you go. Other areas of Egypt can also be included in combined tours with Israel.
• The nearby island of Cyprus is also a favorite vacation spot for Israelis.

• Has custom banner
• Has warning box
• Has map markers
• Has VisaRestriction box
• Has VisaRestriction box with no date
• Listing without plain text name
• Articles with dead external links
• Has caution box
• Has caution box with out of date warning
• Middle East
• All destination articles
• Usable countries
• Usable articles
• Country articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Pages using the Kartographer extension

Navigation menu

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

Written by Jess Lee Updated May 13, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Jerusalem Old City

Churches of nazareth, the dead sea, sea of galilee, mar saba monastery, makhtesh ramon, map of tourist attractions in israel and the palestinian territories.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Eilat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on Israel

• 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. 

What are you wondering about?

Listen to Wondering Jews with Mijal and Noam every Wednesday!

Listen Now →

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

How Does Israel Compare to Religiously Extreme Countries?

It’s been two weeks — why hasn’t iran attacked israel, ny times reporter linked to doxxing of hundreds of australian jews, a journey through zionism: identity, politics, and faith, the jewish history of rummikub: how an israeli entrepreneur created an international sensation.

Topics in this article

Jazzie Morgan

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

Israel Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Israel travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Places To Visit In Israel

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

Active Middle East: Amazing Desert Adventures In Israel

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

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

Awesomely Offbeat Things To Do In Tel Aviv, Israel

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

Travel Tips For Israel

Plan the perfect trip with these Israel travel tips !

10 Reasons Why Israel Should Be Your Next Trip

Solo Female Travel In Israel: The Ultimate Guide

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

Best Israel Tours

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

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

Renting A Car In Israel

Need a rental car for your Israel trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Israel Hotels

Click here to browse the best Israel travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

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

Israel Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

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

Israel Travel Guide FAQ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Q: What should I know before traveling to Israel?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Q: Is it safe to travel to Israel?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Q: How many days do you need for Israel?

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

Q: What is the best month to visit Israel?

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

Q: How long can a tourist stay in Israel?

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

Q: Do I need an Israel travel visa?

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

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

Q: Can you tour Israel on your own?

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

Q: Where is Israel?

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

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Israel?

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

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Israel?

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

Q: What is the local currency in Israel?

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

What would you add to this Israel travel guide?

Enjoyed this ultimate Israel travel guide? Pin it for later!

• 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

Top 10 Reasons to Visit Israel

Taylor McIntyre / © TripSavvy

Israel tourist attractions are numerous and varied. This is a relatively new country - celebrating 70 years of independence in 2018 - in what is a very ancient land. The world’s only Jewish and democratic state is home to sites sacred to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam that can be found nowhere else. While these holy places are truly unique attractions, there is more to Israel than religious heritage and complex politics.

Welcoming, energetic cities, exquisite Mediterranean beaches, and exhilarating nature spots abound. Indeed, few countries this small – at 8,019 square miles, Israel is smaller than New Jersey – pack in as much history, geographical diversity, and cultural treasures.

1. Fascinating Things Come in Small Packages

By any measure a tiny country, Israel never fails to beguile. Jerusalem is the official capital and holy city to three world religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, while Tel Aviv brims with beaches and bustles with urban vitality. Then there’s the Dead Sea and Masada, the stark, stunning Negev, and fertile Galilee. The number of museums and cultural institutions per relative area is larger in Israel than anywhere in the world.

2. It's a Religious Experience (Literally)

Jerusalem is home to major sites of religious significance and pilgrimage, including the Temple Mount, Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Dome of the Rock, and al-Aqsa Mosque. But regardless of one’s religious views and the connections that many feel when visiting the Holy Land, the overriding spiritual energy of Jerusalem is something unique for everyone to experience.

The Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial is an essential stop for any visitor. Safed is the cradle of Jewish mysticism, and you can retrace Christ’s footsteps along the shores of the Sea of Galilee.

3. Israel's Natural Wonders

For many, the Mediterranean coast is itself a wonder, with many unspoiled beaches despite their proximity to cities. But away from the coast, the country’s diversity truly astounds: in the south, there’s the vast crater-strewn emptiness of the Negev Desert, while to the east, the Dead Sea beckons with the saltiest body of water on earth and, at 1,388 feet below sea level, the lowest elevation on the surface of the planet. In the north, where the Galilee region surprises with its green hills and valleys that (in winter) are a major crossroads for migratory birds – and form the heart of the renowned Israeli wine country.

4. Cosmopolitan Tel Aviv

While many people associate Jerusalem most closely with Israel, Tel Aviv is the country's answer to Manhattan and the beating heart of its culinary, cultural and nightlife scene. It's also a beach town – clean beaches run the length of the city – meaning there’s a unique mix of sophistication and relaxation here. The ancient city of Jaffa provides an atmospheric counterpoint to Tel Aviv’s soaring towers and famous curved white Bauhaus buildings, a legacy of the 1930s.

5. Israel's Great Desert Adventures

Israel's Negev is a visual sight to behold, its stark desert relief home to an infinite variety of beautiful views. And eco-tourism and desert adventure touring options abound, from hiking and biking along desert trails to all-terrain jeep trips, camel rides along the ancient frankincense route, rock climbing, and rappelling. There is also a great range of modern guest cabins and inns, as well as unique spas, to unwind in after a day of desert exploration.

6. Visit Israel Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall

Its Mediterranean climate makes Israel ideal for all-season travel. If summers can be hot, with temperatures reaching 90 degrees in places (and even hotter in desert locales like the Dead Sea), you’re never far from the coast, where it’s always a little cooler. And in winter, while much of Europe and the U.S. is shivering, most of Israel basks in sunny temperatures that hover around the 70-degree mark, or warmer in the Red Sea resort of Eilat. There are some rainy days, but it’s by and large a dry country. That poses challenges for Israelis in terms of water conservation efforts, but for visitors, it means pack the sunblock and shades – whether it’s January or July.

7. Events and Festivals

Israel has an array of cultural events and festivals second to none in the region. There’s always something going on and something for every taste. Here are some highlights:

• The Voice of Music Festival in Galilee (summer)
• International Klezmer Festival in Safed (summer)
• Annual Tiberias Marathon (winter)
• Acco Festival of Alternative Israeli Theater (September)
• Tel Aviv Gay Pride (June)
• Olive Festival (Galilee)
• Masada Opera Festival
• Tour de Dead Sea (bicycle race)
• Eilat Chamber Music Festival
• Haifa International Film Festival
• Jerusalem International Film Festival

8. Delicious New Israeli Cuisine

It’s not called the Land of Milk and Honey for nothing! Thanks to its Mediterranean climate and agricultural ingenuity, Israel grows an amazing array of organic produce that finds its way into fresh market cuisine that you’ll find served throughout the country. Because it is a crossroads country, there are infinite varieties of food and restaurants, from Jewish Yemenite to Druze, Palestinian to Turkish to trendy New Israeli restaurants that take reservations weeks in advance.

9. Amazing Archaeological Sites

With a cultural past that stretches back to even before biblical times, Israel has a rich array of ancient sites that are easy to explore. One of the most famous is Masada, the mountainous stronghold at the edge of the Judean desert where Jews tried to fend off the ancient Romans. There are stunning Roman ruins in Caesarea (some of which can be even be seen on an underwater tour), Crusader ramparts in Akko, the ancient Western Wall in Jerusalem, St. Mary’s Well in Nazareth and so much more – and new discoveries are being made all the time.

10. Fun for the Whole Family

Israel is a very family-oriented society and children are welcome just about everywhere here – with many special attractions, like Jerusalem’s Time Elevator and Mini Israel, tailor-made for kids. Most of the larger hotels have great children’s facilities, too. Add to that the great weather, fine beaches with gentle surf and the wealth of historical attractions that have an educational value you just can’t find in a textbook, and Israel just might be the ultimate family vacation destination !

Related Articles

More related articles.

To learn more about the guidelines about travel to Israel - click here

ISRAEL TRAVEL ALERTS & SAFETY INFORMATION

During these challenging times, we in Israel stand together with you, the American people, offering our prayers and support, united in the hope for a brighter, better tomorrow.

ISRAEL TRAVEL ALERTS & SAFETY INFORMATION

In order to remain fully informed, below is the updated information about the ongoing situation in Israel with regard to the CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19).

LATEST INFORMATION FOR TOURISTS TO ISRAEL ON THE CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19):

Tourists looking to travel to israel:.

At the moment, and until further notice, entry to Israel will be refused to non-citizens or non-residents of Israel arriving from anywhere in the world. In exceptional cases, one may apply for approval of the Foreign Ministry subject to proof of the ability to remain in self-isolation for 14 days.

Tourists who are currently in Israel:

• Visitors who are currently in Israel will not be allowed to continue with their planned visit and are requested to stay in their hotel and plan their departure from Israel as soon as possible.
• For now, hotels will continue operating according to the new regulations. This means, no more than 10 people in one area and maintaining a safe distance of 6.5 feet (two-meters) between each person.
• If you’ve been required to enter self-isolation , you must report it to the Ministry of Health:   https://govforms.gov.il/
• If you develop a fever of 100.4F (38C) or higher, a cough, trouble breathing, or other respiratory symptoms, you must immediately enter self-isolation and call the 101 MDA Emergency Services Hotline for medical advice.
• It is absolutely forbidden to enter clinics or hospitals if you are showing any of the above symptoms!

General guidelines for all those staying in Israel:

• For the latest information on coronavirus cases in Israel, please refer to the Department of Health's website .
• The Israeli Government is monitoring the outbreak closely and has implemented temporary measures including border restrictions for travelers from around the world.
• Commercial establishments and entertainment venues will be closed including:
• Shopping malls (except for supermarkets, pharmacies, and places that provide TA food services)
• Discos, bars, pubs, and dining establishments, including hotel dining (excluding TA food services)
• Banquet halls
• Gyms and swimming pools, water parks, zoo, safaris, petting zoos
• Ritual baths (men), and bathhouses
• Cinemas, theaters, and other cultural establishments
• Amusement facilities and amusement parks
• Businesses for non-medical treatment of the human body
• Exhibition halls and fairgrounds
• Public boats
• Heritage sites
• Prayer and religious ceremonies can be conducted in groups of up to 10 people, with 6.5 feet (2 meters) between people and no more than 2 groups at a time.
• Prohibition of visits to welfare, nursing, or healthcare facilities serving as homes for their residents, with the exception of a maximum of one caregiver, preferably a permanent caregiver.
• Regarding visits to hospitals and institutions:
• Visits to hospitals and senior facilities should be avoided.
• If a caregiver is needed, one caregiver must suffice.
• People showing symptoms are not permitted to accompany patients or visit institutions for seniors.
• Medical staff responsible for treating patients can only gather for work purposes in groups not to exceed 15 people.
• Seniors and patients: It is recommended for those aged 60 and over and those with chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, respiratory disease or immunosuppression, avoid crowds and contact with people who have returned from any destination abroad, those who show symptoms, or people who are suspected of being infected, while maintaining their routine.

Public transport: The Ministry of Health recommends avoiding public transport.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• I am a tourist in Israel and I am concerned that I may have COVID-19, where should I go?

If you have a fever of 100.4F (38C) or higher, cough, trouble breathing, or other respiratory symptoms, you must immediately enter self-isolation and call the 101 MDA Emergency Services Hotline for medical advice. Do not go to an HMO clinic or emergency ward.

• I already have a trip booked for April and May, should I cancel my reservations?

At the moment, entry to Israel will be refused to non-citizens or non-residents of Israel arriving from anywhere in the world. In exceptional cases, one may apply for approval of the Foreign Ministry subject to proof of the ability to remain in self-isolation for 14 days.

• Are there any tourist sites, museums, institutes, and/or cultural spaces closed? Are restaurants and bars operating as normal?

Currently, commercial establishments and entertainment venues are closed. Please see the above list for details and exceptions.

• Are any upcoming events or conferences canceled? If so, which ones?

No events of more than 10 people are permitted in Israel.

• Will upcoming religious ceremonies still take place as regularly scheduled (Passover, Easter, etc.)?

Prayer and religious ceremonies can be conducted in groups of up to 10 people, keeping 6.5 feet (2 meters) from one person to another and no more than 2 groups at a time.

• What are the restrictions regarding local travel throughout the country?

The Ministry of Health recommends avoiding public transport.

No gatherings of more than 10 people are permitted.

• When will Israel be open to incoming visitors again? At this moment there is not a known date in which Israel will be open to incoming visitors.

SITES TO SIGNIFICANCE

Itineraries.

• LATEST INFORMATION AND UPDATES
• ISRAEL GOVERNMENT TOURISM OFFICES
• ISRAEL IN THE MEDIA
• STATISTICS AND RESEARCH

Photographers: Guy Yehieli, Adam Primer, Kfir Boltin, Linnea Andres, Kfir Sivan, Haim Yafim, Dana Fridlander, refael Ben Ari, Itamar Greenberg, Moshik Lindbaum, Ori Ackerman Video Credits: Israeli food channel, National Geographic

• OFFICIAL BROCHURE
• TERMS OF USE
• PRIVACY POLICY

FOR MORE DEALS:

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Travel Advisory July 31, 2024

See individual summaries.

Updated to reflect U.S. government restrictions on travel to Northern Israel, and information for U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents and qualifying immediate family members seeking assistance in Gaza.

Do Not Travel To:

• Gaza due to  terrorism  and  armed conflict
• Northern Israel within 2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders due to the rising tensions between Hizballah and Israel  

Reconsider Travel To:

• Israel due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest
• West Bank due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza without warning.

Some areas have increased risk. Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Israel and the West Bank, and Gaza.

Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.

• Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .
• Check the most recent Alerts at the  Embassy  website for the latest information on travel in all of these areas. 
• Maintain a high degree of situational awareness and exercise caution at all times, especially at checkpoints and other areas with a significant presence of security forces.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Follow the instructions of security and emergency response officials.
• Beware of and report suspicious activities, including unattended items, to local police.
• Learn the location of the nearest bomb shelter or other hardened shelter. Download the  Home Front Command Red Alert application  for mobile devices (available on devices within Israel) to receive real time alerts for rocket attacks.
• Obtain comprehensive travel medical insurance that includes medical evacuation prior to travel. Most travel insurance packages do not cover mental health related illnesses/care. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and X/ Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Gaza – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to  terrorism  and  armed conflict .

The U.S. government is unable to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Gaza as U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling there. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are conducting large-scale military operations in Gaza against Hamas, a U.S. government-designated foreign terrorist organization, which was responsible for the October 7 attack on Israel. As a result of the armed conflict, the security environment within Gaza and on its borders is extremely dangerous and volatile. The pedestrian crossing between Gaza and Israel was damaged on October 7 and remains closed, and the pedestrian crossing between Egypt and Gaza has been closed since May 7 and it is unknown when it will re-open.   There are sporadic telecommunication and internet outages within Gaza further inhibiting the ability of residents to obtain information.  

If a U.S. citizen, Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR), or qualified immediate family member desires our assistance and has not already provided their information to the Department of State, please email U.S. Embassy Jerusalem at [email protected] with a copy of the individual’s travel document as well as an explanation or proof of relationship.

Visit our website for  Travel to High Risk Areas .

• If you decide to travel to Gaza:
• Be prepared for an indefinite stay as the crossings between Gaza with Israel and Egypt can close without advance notice and for long periods during times of unrest and armed conflict.
• Have a plan for entering and departing Gaza that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• Households with infants and young children should plan for food and supplies, such as diapers and wipes, formula or baby food, and a change of clothing.
• If you take medication, make sure to have at least five days’ worth at any given time – if you can, we encourage enough for two weeks beyond your scheduled trip and have a copy of your prescriptions handy.
• If you use assistive or medical devices that require a power supply, be sure to find backup power or other ways that will sustain your device or equipment during a power outage.
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.

Please be sure to visit our website for  How to Prepare for a Crisis  for information that may be helpful.

Israel – Reconsider Travel (see below for specific advice on travel within 2.5 miles of Lebanese and Syrian borders)

Reconsider travel due to  terrorism and civil unrest .

The security situation remains unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire, often take place without warning.

• U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from personal travel to the following locations:
• Within seven miles of the Gaza demarcation line, as well as the cities of Ashdod and Ashkelon; and
• Within 1.5 miles of the Israel-Egypt border.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility, with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Northern Israel (within 2.5 miles of Lebanese and Syrian borders) – Do Not Travel

U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from personal travel within 2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders. Any U.S. government travel to this area is done in full coordination with Israeli security forces.

Due to the ongoing active hostilities between Israel and Hizballah, the U.S. Embassy strongly recommends that U.S. citizens do not travel within 2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders. Cross-border rocket, missile, and drone strikes continue to impact this area daily and have resulted in casualties. The Israeli authorities already restrict travel to these areas.

West Bank – Reconsider Travel

• U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from all personal travel to the West Bank, except:
• U.S. government employees can use Routes 1, 90, and 443 at any time. 
• U.S. government employees are permitted personal daylight travel to Jericho and Bethlehem, including Beit Jala and Beit Sahour.   Given continued closures of checkpoints throughout the West Bank, the only permitted and accessible route into Bethlehem for U.S. government employees and their family members is through Checkpoint 300 near Rachel’s Tomb. 
• U.S. government employees are permitted daylight travel to: Inn of the Good Samaritan, An-Nabi Musa, Wadi Qelt Nature Preserve, and St. George’s Monastery along Route 1; and Qumran, Kalia Beach, St. Gerasimos/Khogla Monastery, Al Auju, and Qasr al-Yaud baptismal site along Route 90. 

Over the past few months, there has been an increase in settler violence, Israeli military operations, and terrorist attacks.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

No minimum requirement, but your authorized stay will not exceed the validity remaining on your passport and airlines may deny boarding if a traveler has fewer than six months validity on his or her passport.

1 page (although passports are normally not stamped upon entry).

Not required for stays of 90 days or fewer until January 1, 2025. Beginning January 1, 2025, visa or Electronic Travel Authorization .(ETA-IL) will be required. Please see below for detailed information about entry, exit and visa requirements.

You must declare if you are carrying 50,000 shekels or more (or the equivalent) when entering or exiting Israel by air and 12,000 shekels (or the equivalent) if entering or exiting by land.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Jerusalem   14 David Flusser Street   Jerusalem 93392   Telephone:  + (972) (2) 630-4000  Emergency After-Hours Telephone : + (972) (2) 622-7230  Email:   [email protected]

Contact the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem for information and assistance in Jerusalem, the West Bank, Gaza (including the Erez Crossing), and the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge border crossing between Jordan and the West Bank.

U.S. Office of Palestinian Affairs 18 Agron Road Jerusalem 9419003 Telephone: + (972) (2) 630-4000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone : + (972) (2) 622-7230 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Embassy Jerusalem Branch Office Tel Aviv 71 HaYarkon Street   Tel Aviv Israel 63903   Telephone:  + (972) (3) 519-7575  Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  + (972) (3) 519-7551  Email:   [email protected]

Contact the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy Branch Office in Tel Aviv for information and assistance in Israel outside of Jerusalem, and the northern (Sheikh Hussein) and southern (Yitzhak Rabin) border crossings connecting Israel and Jordan, and the border crossings between Israel and Egypt.

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Israel for information on U.S.-Israel relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

The Government of Israel administers immigration and security controls at its international land crossings with Jordan (into both the West Bank and Israel), Egypt (at the Taba crossing near Eilat), and at Israel’s airports and seaports. A separate network of security checkpoints and crossings operated by Israeli authorities regulates the movement of people and goods between Israel and the West Bank, and between Israel and Gaza.

The U.S. government seeks equal treatment and freedom of travel for all U.S. citizens regardless of national origin, religion, or ethnicity . All persons seeking to enter or depart Israel, the West Bank, or Gaza are subject to  immigration and security screening , possibly including prolonged questioning and physical searches, and  may be denied entry or exit  consistent with the uniform application of Israeli law. Persons who are denied entry have the right to an immigration court hearing to contest the denial, but they will be detained for the duration of the proceedings. Specific questions about your individual circumstances should be directed to your closest Israeli Embassy or Consulate.

When traveling into Israel,  please make sure you have proper  travel  documentation before arrival in Israel. 

1. Do I need a visa to enter Israel if I normally live in the United States?

Until January 1, 2025, U.S. citizens may use their U.S. passport to enter Israel for business or tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days without a visa, including U.S. citizens transiting Israel to and from the West Bank.

Starting January 1, 2025, U.S. citizens must have an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) or a visa to enter Israel for business or tourism purposes for stays up to 90 days; an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) application will cost 25 shekels.Until January 1, 2025, U.S. citizens can submit an ETA-IL application for no fee during this voluntary, pilot phase.

For more information, please contact your nearest Israeli Embassy or consulate and consult this Israeli government webpage: Reciprocal Privileges for U.S. Citizens at Border Control .

2. Do I need a visa to enter the West Bank if I am visiting the West Bank and normally live in the United States?

Until January 1, 2025, U.S. citizens who are not West Bank residents can use their U.S. passport to enter the West Bank for business or tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. For more information, visit this Israeli government webpage: Entry of Palestinian-American Tourists into Israel.

Starting January 1, 2025,  U.S. citizens must have an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) or a visa to enter Israel for business or tourism purposes for stays up to 90 days; an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) application will cost 25 shekels. Until January 1, 2025, U.S. citizens can submit an ETA-IL application for no fee during this voluntary, pilot phase.

U.S. citizens who are not Palestinian Authority (PA) ID/passport holders and who wish to study, teach, research, work, or volunteer in the West Bank should consult the Israeli government’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT)  regulations  on entry into the West Bank. U.S. citizens who are engaged or married to West Bank residents and wish to remain in the West Bank should also consult these regulations. Questions regarding these regulations can be directed to COGAT by email at  [email protected]  or by phone at +972-3-697-7577.

3. Do I need a visa to enter Israel if I normally live in the West Bank?

U.S. citizens who are also residents of the West Bank can either apply for a permit to enter Israel from the Government of Israel’s COGAT or apply for a visa to enter Israel at Allenby Bridge in order to transit through the West Bank to Israel for up to 90 days. For more information, visit the Government of Israel’s webpage:  Entry-Exit Information: Israel, the West Bank and Gaza.   U.S. citizens with a Palestinian Authority (PA) ID residing in the West Bank can submit an  Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL)  but must also continue to request a B2 permit through the Al-Munassiq app. By the end of 2024, the Israeli government has committed to implement a system that will allow U.S. citizens with a PA ID residing in the West Bank who receive an approved ETA-IL to use it to receive a B2 permit at one of the designated pedestrian crossings.

4. Do I need a visa to enter Gaza through Israel if I normally live in the United States?

Please see the  Travel Advisory  before traveling to Gaza. Gaza is Level 4 – Do Not Travel. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are conducting large-scale military operations in Gaza against Hamas, a U.S. government-designated foreign terrorist organization. As a result of the armed conflict, the security environment within Gaza and on its borders is extremely dangerous and volatile. We remind all U.S. citizens seeking to travel to Gaza that the U.S. government is unable to provide any routine or emergency services to U.S. citizens in Gaza. Given the ongoing armed  conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, U.S. citizens cannot enter Gaza from Israel.

5. Can U.S. citizens registered as residents of Gaza enter or transit Israel?

U.S. citizens who are also listed on the Palestinian Population registry for Gaza may use their U.S. passport to apply for entry into Israel for business or tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days without a visa, including transiting Israel to and from the West Bank (but not to transit to Gaza). 

For more information, visit the Government of Israel’s webpage:  Entry of Palestinian-American Tourists into Israel . 

Starting January 1, 2025, U.S. citizen must have an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) or a visa to enter Israel , for business or tourism purposes for stays up to 90 days; an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) application will cost 25 shekels. Until January 1, 2025, U.S. citizens can submit an ETA-IL application for no fee during a voluntary, pilot phase.

6. What if I am denied entry?

U.S. citizens should immediately report any denial of entry or harassment or discriminatory treatment by border officials to the American Citizens Services (ACS) unit of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem or the Embassy Branch Office in Tel Aviv.

• U.S. citizens can use the U.S. Embassy Jerusalem and Branch Office Tel Aviv  online reporting form .
• U.S. citizens can call the Embassy at the phone numbers on our website (denials of entry only):  U.S. Citizen Services - U.S. Embassy in Israel (usembassy.gov)

Please note that the decision to admit or deny a traveler admission to Israel is entirely made by the State of Israel. The U.S. Embassy does not control this process and cannot intervene on an individual’s behalf. However, U.S. citizens who are denied entry into Israel or the West Bank should receive a written explanation from Israeli authorities.

The Israeli Ministry of Interior has continued to deny entry into Israel and the West Bank to some foreign nationals (including U.S. citizens) affiliated with certain political and non-governmental organizations that the Government of Israel views as anti-Israel. Participation in Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS)-related activities is one of the considerations Israeli authorities consider when deciding whether to refuse entry to individuals into Israel and the West Bank.

In addition to contacting the U.S. Embassy, if you were the subject of mistreatment or harassment by Israeli authorities upon entry to or exit from Israel, you may also email  [email protected]  to file a complaint with the Israeli authorities. If the mistreatment or harassment occurred at a check point to the West Bank you may email  [email protected]  to file a complaint.

7. What if I’m an Israeli citizen?

Individuals with Israeli citizenship, regardless of other nationality, including U.S. citizenship, must enter and depart Israel using their Israeli passports in accordance with Israeli law. Due to a passport backlog, Israeli citizens are temporarily allowed to enter and depart Israel on non-Israeli passports until December 31, 2024. U.S.-Israeli citizens do not need to submit an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) application and should depart the United States on their U.S. passport and enter Israel on their Israeli passport as long as they have checked in to their flight with the Israeli passport.

Israeli citizens are prohibited from using the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge crossing. They are also prohibited from entering Gaza and are generally prohibited from traveling to parts of the West Bank under PA control (Area A), to include Bethlehem and Jericho.

Further information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction,  and  customs regulations  can be found on our website at travel.state.gov.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Tourism infrastructure
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Please view the current  Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza  for detailed information regarding the terrorism threat in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.

Please view the current  Travel Advisory for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza  for detailed information regarding the terrorism threat in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.

Mortar and Rocket Fire or Hostile Aircraft Intrusion :  In the event of mortar or rocket fire or Hostile Aircraft Intrusion , a “red alert” siren may be activated. Treat all such alerts as real. Follow the instructions from local authorities and seek shelter immediately. Know the location of your closest shelter or protected space. U.S. government personnel and their family members may be restricted from traveling to areas affected by rocket activity, sirens, and/or the opening of bomb shelters. For additional information on appropriate action to take upon hearing a siren or explosion, see  the Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command website  (available on devices within Israel) or view the  Preparedness Information.  U.S. citizens may also wish to download the free Israel Defense Forces Home Front Command application on  Android  or  Apple  devices to receive real-time security and safety alerts. Free commercial applications, such as Red Alert: Israel, are also available.

Crime:  The crime rate is moderate in Israel and the West Bank. Parked vehicle break-ins are common at public beach areas, national parks, and other tourist sites. Vehicle theft also remains a problem. U.S. citizens should not leave their valuables (including passports) unattended in parked vehicles, on the beach, or unsecured in hotels. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings in tourist areas and watch for crimes of opportunity, such as pickpockets.  The crime rate in Gaza is now unknown given the ongoing armed conflict between Israel and Hamas.

For additional information, read the most recent Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC)  Crime and Safety Report for Israel .

Demonstrations  occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. 

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Technology Usage Abroad : Mobiles Devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices include making sure all software (operating system and apps) are updated prior to traveling abroad and using virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible while abroad. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to

unknown open Wi-Fi.

GPS navigation applications (apps) can help you get around in a foreign country. Prior to using a GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. A GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without accounting for the safety of that route.

Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and do not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Victims of Crime:  Report crimes to the local police. The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in Israel and the West Bank is 100 for police, 101 for an ambulance, and 102 for the fire department.

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact U.S. Embassy Jerusalem or Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv for assistance. You can reach U.S. Embassy Jerusalem or Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv at the contact information provided above. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States

Provide information on possible Government of Israel assistance to victims of crime:

• Israel National Police
• Ministry of Justice 
• Ministry of National Security
• Provide information on Government of Israel assistance to victims of terrorist acts (contact the  National Insurance Institute  for more information)
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should contact local police and/or the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs (#118 from a local cell phone or via text at +972-50-227-0018) but may also contact U.S. Embassy Jerusalem or Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv to report it.

Tourism:   The tourism industry is generally regulated in Israel and the West Bank. Rules with regards to general practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and trained staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to the local laws of the locations you visit or reside in. Foreign laws and legal systems can be significantly different from those of the United States. If you violate Israeli or Palestinian Authority (PA) laws, even unknowingly, being a U.S. citizen will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution. The Israeli government will treat dual U.S-Israeli citizens as Israeli citizens, and the Palestinian Authority will treat dual U.S.-PA passport holders as PA "citizens”– regardless of whether they entered Israel or PA-administered area on a U.S. passport.

Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking illegal drugs in Israel and PA-administered areas are severe and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Individuals expressing views, including on social media, which the Government of Israel considers incitement to violence or hate speech may face criminal penalties, even if the the substance and manner in which those views are expressed would be lawful in the United States. PA security officials have also arrested Palestinians who posted criticism of the PA and PA leadership online. In Gaza, individuals publicly criticizing authorities risk reprisal by Hamas, including arrest, interrogation, seizure of property, and harassment.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrests and Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify U.S. Embassy Jerusalem or Branch Office Tel Aviv immediately. See our  website on arrest or detention of a U.S. citizen abroad  for further information. While the U.S. Embassy may not recommend a particular foreign attorney, the embassy website has the  names of several attorneys  who have identified themselves as willing to assist U.S. citizen clients. Please note that inclusion on this list in no way represents an endorsement of services by the Department or the U.S. government. 

Arrests and Arrest Notification by Israel: 

• The Government of Israel is required by a bilateral treaty and customary international law to promptly notify the U.S. Embassy when a U.S. citizen is arrested in Israel to inform them that if the citizen is a U.S. citizen and requests that the U.S. Embassy be notified and makes such a request. In case of arrest or detention, U.S. citizens should promptly identify themselves as such to the arresting authorities and request that the authorities notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. There are credible reports that U.S. citizens have been mistreated by Israeli security forces during their arrest and interrogation.
• Some youths over the age of 12 have been tried as adults; youths over the age of 14 can be imprisoned. 
• Arrestees have also reported pressure to sign documents in Hebrew that they do not understand.
• U.S. citizens arrested in Israel for criminal or security offenses are entitled to legal representation provided by the Government of Israel. U.S. citizens arrested by Israeli authorities for security offenses may be prevented from communicating with lawyers, family members, or consular officers for lengthy periods. Even after notification, consular access to the arrested individual may be delayed for days to several weeks. Under Israeli law, individuals detained for security offenses may be held for up to six months without charges.

Arrests and Arrest Notification by the Palestinian Authority (PA):

• In case of arrest or detention, U.S. citizens should promptly identify themselves as such to the arresting authorities and should request that the U.S. Embassy be notified immediately. Individuals arrested by PA security forces in the West Bank for security offenses may be prohibited from communicating with lawyers, family members, or consular officers for lengthy periods. In addition, they may be held in custody for long periods without formal charges or before being brought before a judge for an arrest extension. The PA often does not notify the U.S. Embassy of such arrests, and consular access to arrestees is often delayed. There are credible reports that arrested individuals, including U.S. citizens, have been mistreated by PA security forces during their arrest and interrogation.

Gaza:  Since Hamas seized control of the Gaza Strip in June 2007, they have dominated security matters in Gaza, but this control has been degraded by Israel’s ongoing military operations against Hamas. The U.S. government is severely limited in what it can do to assist those detained in Gaza. In case of arrest or detention by Israeli security forces in Gaza, U.S. citizens should promptly identify themselves as such to the arresting authorities and should request that the U.S. Embassy be notified immediately.

Israeli Court Jurisdiction:  Military, civil and religious courts in Israel actively exercise their authority to bar certain individuals, including nonresidents, from leaving the country until debts or other legal claims and matters against them are resolved. Israel's religious courts exercise jurisdiction over all citizens and residents of Israel in cases of marriage, divorce, child custody, and child support. U.S. citizens, including those without Israeli citizenship, may be subject to involuntary and prolonged stays (and even imprisonment) in Israel if a case is filed against them in a religious court, even if their marriage took place in the United States, and regardless of whether their spouse is present in Israel. The U.S. Embassy is unable to cancel the debt of a U.S. citizen or guarantee their departure from Israel when they face a bar from leaving the country until debts are resolved.    Purchases of Property:  U.S. citizens should always seek legal advice before buying or leasing property in the West Bank and Gaza. Please see the most recent  Investment Climate Statement for the West Bank and Gaza  for additional information on property rights.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may be illegal according to the local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods also may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States.   See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

International Volunteers:

LGBTQI+ Rights:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) events in Israel. Israeli anti-discrimination laws protect LGBTQI+ individuals. Acceptance and tolerance of LGBQTI+ people vary throughout the country and from neighborhood to neighborhood. As of August 2014, the Law of Return allows that same-sex spouses of Jews immigrating to Israel – known as “making Aliyah” – are eligible to make Aliyah with their spouses and receive Israeli citizenship.    The legal systems in the West Bank and Gaza Strip are based on the 1960 Jordanian penal code which prohibits consensual same-sex sexual activity. However, the PA has not prosecuted individuals suspected of such activity. Societal discrimination, including from families, based on cultural and religious traditions is commonplace, making the West Bank and Gaza challenging environments for LGBTQI+ persons. PA security officers have harassed, abused, and sometimes arrested LGBTQI+ individuals because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. NGOs have reported that Hamas also harassed and detained persons in Gaza due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.    LGBTQI+ travelers are encouraged to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especially when entering religious or socially conservative areas.

Israel’s  Aguda  organization provides useful information on LGBTQI+ issues in Israel.    See   our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information page  and section 6 of the  Department of State's Human Rights report  for further details.

Persons with Mobility Issues:  Individuals with mobility issues may find accessibility and accommodation in Israel very different from in the United States. Legislation mandates access to buildings and transportation, as well as accommodations for persons with disabilities in services and the workplace. However, the government enforces the laws with only limited success. Societal discrimination and lack of accessibility persist in employment and housing. The law mandates accessibility to urban public transportation but not to intercity buses. Most train stations maintain access for persons with disabilities; however, many buses still do not have such access. Television stations include subtitles or sign language, and the courts accommodate testimony from persons with intellectual disabilities or mental illness. Tourists will find restaurants, foot paths, and public transportation less accessible than in the United States.

PA law prohibits discrimination based on disability. The Palestinian Disability Law was ratified in 1999, but implementation has been slow. It does not mandate access to buildings, information, or communications. Palestinians with disabilities continue to receive uneven and poor-quality services and care. Familial and societal discrimination against persons with disabilities exists in both the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

For emergency services in Israel, dial 101 for ambulances, and 100 for police.

Modern medical care and medicines are available in Israel. Some hospitals in Israel, most hospitals in the West Bank, and all hospitals in Gaza, however, fall below Western standards. Travelers can find information in English about emergency medical facilities and after-hours pharmacies in the  Jerusalem Post  and the English-language edition of the  Ha'aretz  newspaper, or refer to the  U.S. Embassy’s medical information list .

Ambulance services are widely available in Israel. Ambulance services in the West Bank are available but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards. The U.S. government does not have knowledge of the standards of ambulance services in Gaza, but their capabilities have been degraded by the ongoing armed conflict between Hamas and Israel. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) operates in the West Bank and Gaza.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s entire Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Israel.Traveler Advice for Israel.

• Select your destination in the Travelers’ Health webpage . Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.

Review the Traveler Advice webpage that provides advice on medical considerations including:

• Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)
• Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)
• and General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)

The Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage for places you are traveling overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage on insurance coverage overseas  for more information. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  (see our webpage) to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Israel  Ministry of Health  to ensure the medication is legal in Israel.

Be up to date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For further health information, go to :

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list  of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout Israel but health care in the West Bank may be below U.S. standards. Health care in Gaza has been severely degraded by the ongoing military conflict between Israel and Hamas and what is available is far below U.S. standards.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

• Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on medical tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling.
• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.

Pharmaceuticals

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication in Israel. Pharmaceuticals, both those available over the counter and those requiring a prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with few restrictions or controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication may only be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Israel to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our  ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
• Surrogacy is subject to complex local regulation. For additional information, visit the Israel Ministry of Health  website  for information on surrogacy.

Water Quality

• Tap water in Israel is potable. In many areas of the West Bank and most areas of Gaza, tap water is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Adventure Travel .

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  While in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below is provided for general reference only and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

• Israel:   Israeli roads and highways tend to be crowded, especially in urban areas. The Government of Israel requires that all occupants of passenger cars always wear seat belts. Passenger cars must use headlights during all intercity travel, both day and night, and during winter. All drivers are required to carry fluorescent vests and safety triangles in the car with them at all times, and they are required to wear the vests whenever they get out of their cars to make repairs or change tires. If a vehicle is stopped for a traffic violation and it does not contain a fluorescent vest, the driver will be fined. These vests can be purchased for a nominal price in all local gas stations. While mobile phone use is prohibited while driving, hands-free units are authorized. The acceptable limit for blood alcohol content is lower in Israel than in the United States.
• West Bank and Gaza:  Crowded roads are common in the West Bank. During periods of heightened tension in the West Bank, protestors have targeted cars and buses with stone throwing, improvised incendiary devices, small arms fire, barricades, and burning tires. Emergency services may be delayed by the need for Palestinian authorities to coordinate with Israeli officials. Seat belt use is required, and drivers may not drink alcohol. Individuals involved in accidents resulting in death or injury may be detained by police pending an investigation. The roads in Gaza have been severely degraded in areas where armed conflict between Israel and Hamas has taken place.

Traffic Laws:  Aggressive driving is commonplace, and many drivers fail to maintain safe following distances or signal before changing lanes or making turns. Overtaking at high-speed on undivided two-lane roads is common and may result in accidents. Drivers are also prone to stop suddenly on roads without warning, especially in the right lane. Drivers should use caution, as Israel has a high rate of fatalities from automobile accidents.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. We suggest that you visit the website of the country’s national  tourist  office and Israel's  Ministry of Transport and Road Safety  for additional information on road safety.    Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed that the Government of Israel’s Civil Aviation Authority is in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Israel’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page ..

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, israel, the west bank and gaza map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

• Go to current travel information
• Go to navigation
• Go to flight search
• Go to main content
• Go to footer

Travel details

Flight from manila (mnl) to tel aviv (tlv), flight information, book your flights from manila to tel aviv right away.

Are you looking for cheap flights from Manila to Tel Aviv? Check out our offers and you are guaranteed to find the best flight deals. Whether you are planning to spend an enjoyable holiday in Israel or are travelling to Tel Aviv for a business meeting, booking your flight at lufthansa.com takes you on a comfortable journey from Philippines to your desired flight destination. We also make sure that your flight is as relaxing as possible, so you can enjoy your journey from Manila to Tel Aviv stress free. You just need to specify the month in which you wish to fly.

*Please note: To provide you with the widest possible selection of flight destinations, some of the direct flights or connecting flights on lufthansa.com are operated by our partner airlines, which may result in a different flight experience than with Lufthansa.

Important information for your trip

Medical Companions

Professional support on the way to the airport and throughout your whole trip.

Push notifications

Sign up for browser push notifications from the Lufthansa Group now.

Exclusive Offers

Get discounts and extra miles this September with our car rental partners.

Better together

Free seat reservation with the Economy Classic fare – ideal for families.

Your rental car

Additional services, your hotel from booking.com, entry regulations, current weather in tel aviv, discover our destinations.

• Manila - Tel Aviv
• Philippines - Israel

With Lufthansa, you can conveniently check in online from 23 hours before departure, select your seat and print out your boarding pass or have it sent to your mobile phone. You can choose to either check in online or use the Lufthansa app . Mobile boarding passes are available for most Lufthansa destinations, but in some exceptional cases they cannot be issued due to official regulations. If this is the case, you will be sent confirmation that you’ve checked in, which you then hand over at the airport counter to obtain your boarding pass. You can also use your mobile boarding pass offline if you have the Lufthansa app, iOS Wallet or Google Pay. You can find more information in our check-in section online .

Enjoy an excellent culinary experience on board your Lufthansa flight. We offer you a selection of snacks and high-quality fresh food, which varies depending on which flight class you’ve booked as well as the duration of the flight. On short-haul and medium-haul flights in Economy Class, you will receive a Lufthansa chocolate if your flight lasts 30 minutes or less, and an additional free bottle of mineral water for a flight of up to 60 minutes. For flights of one hour or more, you can also enjoy a range of delicious fresh snacks and a selection of beverages for an additional charge. On long-haul flights, you can also enjoy complimentary food and beverages in Economy Class. If you have special dietary requirements, you can order special meals or children’s menus up to 24 hours before departure. Learn more about our in-flight menus that will make your flight experience even more enjoyable.

The free baggage allowance and applicable fees for additional baggage depend on your route, flight class and the fare. Use our baggage calculator to find out how much baggage you are allowed to bring with you on your flight and how you can add additional baggage.

Our Lufthansa in-flight entertainment guarantees you an even more enjoyable flight. Not only can you look forward to a varied entertainment program on long-haul flights, but you can also download digital magazines and newspapers from our range of free eJournals , available on all Lufthansa flights. Current blockbusters, TV programmes, music, audio books, podcasts and games are a great way to pass the time on our long-haul flights. In our online guide to in-flight entertainment , you will find exciting trailers, articles and information on the latest entertainment on offer.

If a flight is cancelled, we automatically rebook all affected passengers. The new flight connection will then be displayed under "My bookings". If you need help, our Lufthansa Chat Assistant Elisa will be happy to assist you.

Baggage allowance refers to the amount of baggage you can bring with you at no extra cost. The size, weight and number of bags or suitcases depends on the fare you have booked, the flight route and your Miles & More status.

Premium Economy Class is our extra comfortable travel class, perfect for long-haul flights. Enjoy numerous advantages such as extra wide seating with increased reclining for a relaxing flight.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Morning Briefing: Europe Edition

Tuesday briefing.

Protests and work stoppages in Israel.

By Natasha Frost

Netanyahu refuses a cease-fire in Gaza

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel rebuffed calls from allies, protesters and the families of hostages for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza that would facilitate the return of hostages, doubling down on his refusal to agree to a truce that would involve Israel’s withdrawal from the territory.

At a news conference defending his plans, Netanyahu asked what message it would send to Hamas if Israel were to cede under pressure after the deaths of more hostages: “Slay hostages, and you’ll get concessions?” He added that the end of the war would come only “when Hamas no longer rules Gaza.”

His comments came after work stoppages and protests at thousands of primary schools and at several municipalities, transport networks and hospitals across the country. A court ordered union leaders to halt the labor strike in the afternoon.

In other news:

Britain announced that it would suspend the exports of some weapons to Israel, saying that a legal review had concluded there was a “clear risk” the weapons could be used in a way that would breach international law. In Washington, President Biden said Netanyahu wasn’t doing enough to bring the hostages home.

Thousands of mourners attended the funeral of Hersh Goldberg-Polin , a dual Israeli American citizen who was one of six hostages found dead this weekend.

Polio vaccinations continued for a second day in Gaza. The Gazan Health Ministry said that more than 72,600 children were vaccinated on Sunday.

Biden and Harris courted unions in Pennsylvania

At a union event in Pittsburgh, President Biden made his first appearance on the campaign trail since ceding the nomination to Vice President Kamala Harris, rallying the labor movement in support of his second in command. “I’ll be on the sidelines,” he said, “but I’ll do everything I can to help.” Here’s the latest .

Harris’s team plans to deploy the president judiciously on the campaign trail as the vice president seeks to establish her own independent political identity. Biden will travel mostly to the important swing states of Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan, where he still appeals to white working-class voters and union members.

The stop in Pittsburgh capped a Labor Day spent by Harris making her pitch to union voters. All told, she and her running mate, Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, managed to visit each of the so-called blue wall states of Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, appealing to union voters as the ground troops of a campaign that has barely two months left.

Here’s what else to know:

In Venice, the actor George Clooney praised President Biden for doing “ the most selfless thing ” by stepping aside.

The Times fact-checked Senator JD Vance’s claims about Harris’s policies and positions.

Trump suggested that he had “every right” to try to overturn the 2020 election in an interview with a right-wing radio host.

Do you have questions about the election? Send them to us, and we’ll find the answers.

Stay up to date: Live coverage | Poll tracker | “The Run-Up” podcast | On Politics newsletter

A rape case shocks France

Fifty-one men went on trial yesterday in Avignon, France, in a case that has appalled the nation and cast a spotlight on the use of drugs to commit sexual abuse.

Dominique Pelicot, 71, is accused of repeatedly drugging his wife and then raping her over a period of years, as well as inviting other men to rape her, in some cases on camera. He has pleaded guilty.

Dozens of other men are also charged with her rape. Some have denied the charges, including a number who argued that they had the husband’s permission and thought that was sufficient. Others claimed they had believed the victim had agreed to be drugged.

MORE TOP NEWS

Ukraine: Russia carried out its third large-scale bombardment in a week, with missile attacks on Kyiv and other cities on the first day of the school year .

Pope Francis: The pope will arrive in Indonesia today for the start of an 11-day tour of Southeast Asia and Oceania, among the longest of his tenure.

Russia: President Vladimir Putin began a state visit to Mongolia after the International Criminal Court said the authorities there should arrest him .

Climate change: Record rainfall in China has devastated crops, causing some vegetable prices to skyrocket. Chinese officials are trying to show that they’re doing something about it .

Germany : The successes of the far right and the far left in two states in East Germany will force parties to make difficult compromises. Here are takeaways from the state elections .

Tech: A panel of Supreme Court justices in Brazil upheld a decision to block the social network X across the country.

Iran: A report by investigators found that bad weather caused the helicopter crash that killed President Ebrahim Raisi in May.

Venezuela: The U.S. government seized an airplane belonging to the country’s leader, Nicolás Maduro, because it was bought in violation of U.S. sanctions.

China: Gao Zhen, a Chinese artist known for works critiquing the Cultural Revolution, was detained while visiting China .

Business: Volkswagen warned that it would consider closing factories in Germany as it faces increasing pressure from Asian competitors.

SPORTS NEWS

Soccer: Arsenal has turned down an offer from Al Ittihad for Leandro Trossard .

U.S. Open: On Day 8, Jessica Pegula, Karolina Muchova and Jack Draper secured places in the quarterfinals. Read the latest updates .

Paralympics: The relationship between athletes and their assistants can extend beyond a technical connection into something more personal .

MORNING READ

Some facts about the American penny: Each one costs about three cents to produce. The U.S. Mint produces billions each year that virtually no one uses. And if even a modest share of those collecting in people’s homes suddenly returned to circulation, the result would be a “logistically unmanageable” dilemma for the world’s wealthiest nation.

For The Times Magazine, Caity Weaver makes the case for retiring the American 1-cent coin. America, she writes, must free itself from the tyranny of the penny .

Lives lived: Virginia Ogilvy, the Countess of Airlie, who served Queen Elizabeth II for nearly 50 years as the only American-born member of the monarch’s circle of advisers known as the ladies-in-waiting, died last month at 91 .

CONVERSATION STARTERS

Gratuities: Americans are being asked to tip more often and in more places than ever before. And it may soon get worse .

Sugar crash: At Starbucks and local cafes in the U.S., a battle is raging to concoct the latest imaginatively flavored, calorie-laden not-really-coffee drink .

Easy money: A cultural critic paid her child $100 to read a book. Here is why .

ARTS AND IDEAS

Europe’s ‘out of control’ tourism.

Hunger strikes against tourism developments. Threats of water being cut off to illegal vacation rentals. Water pistol warfare.

In European hot spots, tourists have become the targets of a major backlash. While final visitor numbers for this summer aren’t in yet, they are expected to surpass 2019 levels. And climate change has only increased the burden.

Read about how this backlash has played out in destinations like Athens, Amsterdam and Barcelona.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Cook: This might be the best tuna melt you’ve ever had .

Read: Rachel Kushner’s “Creation Lake” is a smart, spy thriller brimming with heat .

Watch: “English Teacher,” a new sitcom, handles the educational culture wars with a light touch. Read our critic’s review .

Style: You — yes, you — can rock a denim jacket , our chief fashion critic writes.

Play the Spelling Bee . And here are today’s Mini Crossword and Wordle . You can find all our puzzles here .

That’s it for today’s briefing. See you tomorrow. — Natasha

Reach Natasha and the team at [email protected] .

Natasha Frost writes The Times’s weekday newsletter The Europe Morning Briefing. More about Natasha Frost