Israel

Israel’s compact size belies the sheer diversity of experiences it offers. At the spiritual core lies Jerusalem, a city sacred to Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. Within the walled Old City, one can walk the cobbled alleys between the Western Wall, the last remnant of the Second Temple; the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, believed to be the site of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection; and the Dome of the Rock, with its iconic golden dome marking the spot where the Prophet Muhammad is said to have ascended to heaven. Just outside the Old City, the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial is a sobering, essential stop for understanding modern Jewish history. In contrast, Tel Aviv offers a cosmopolitan, youthful energy. Known for its nightlife, thriving tech scene, and Mediterranean beaches, this city boasts the UNESCO-designated White City, a treasure trove of Bauhaus architecture. Stroll the boulevard-lined Rothschild Avenue, enjoy gourmet street food at Carmel Market, and explore the ancient port city of Jaffa, where history and creativity meet in art galleries and flea markets. The Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, allows travelers to effortlessly float on its mineral-rich waters. Nearby, the fortress of Masada stands as a symbol of Jewish resistance, best visited at sunrise by hiking the Snake Path or taking the cable car for sweeping views of the Judean Desert. In the north, the Sea of Galilee—believed by many to be where Jesus walked on water—offers both spiritual exploration and outdoor adventures. The Golan Heights, with its vineyards and basalt plateaus, is a scenic and historically rich area dotted with hiking trails, waterfalls, and former military outposts. In the south, the Negev Desert offers a rugged and inspiring landscape. The Ramon Crater, a massive erosion crater unique to Israel, is a paradise for geology lovers and stargazers. Farther south lies Eilat, a resort town on the Red Sea with coral reefs, dolphin encounters, and duty-free shopping.

Israeli cuisine is a flavorful fusion of Jewish diasporic traditions, Middle Eastern spices, and Mediterranean freshness. Falafel, deep-fried chickpea balls often served in pita with hummus, pickles, and vegetables, is perhaps the most iconic street food. Equally ubiquitous is shawarma, thinly sliced meat—usually turkey or lamb—served with a variety of toppings and sauces. Hummus in Israel is more than a dish—it’s a cultural icon. Whether served plain with olive oil or adorned with toppings like mushrooms, ful (fava beans), or spiced minced meat, every local has a favorite hummusia. Shakshuka, a North African import, has become a national favorite: eggs poached in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce, often eaten for breakfast with fresh bread. Sabich, originally from Iraqi Jewish cuisine, is a sandwich of fried eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, amba (a tangy mango pickle), tahini, and Israeli salad—all wrapped in pita. Bourekas, flaky pastries filled with cheese or potato, are a common snack found in every bakery. For dessert, try malabi, a silky milk pudding topped with rosewater syrup and crushed pistachios, or kanafeh, a sweet cheese pastry drenched in syrup and sprinkled with orange blossoms and nuts. Markets and bakeries brim with dates, halva, rugelach, and fresh breads like challah and laffa.

Getting around Israel is remarkably straightforward thanks to its well-developed infrastructure. For intercity travel, the national bus company Egged operates an extensive and affordable network, with frequent service between major cities and even remote destinations. Trains are modern, punctual, and clean, connecting Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, and the northern and southern peripheries. The high-speed train between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is a game-changer, reducing travel time to under 30 minutes. Within cities, shared taxis known as sheruts operate on fixed routes but allow on-demand stops, offering a flexible and affordable alternative to buses. In Tel Aviv and Haifa, buses and light rail systems are efficient, though traffic can slow things down. Ride-hailing apps like Gett, Yango, and Uber work in most cities, but ensure drivers use the meter when taking a regular taxi. If you plan to explore areas like the Galilee, Golan Heights, or Negev Desert, renting a car offers convenience and flexibility. Road signs are in Hebrew, Arabic, and English, and the highways are in good condition. However, be mindful of toll roads and dense traffic in major urban areas. Public transportation halts for Shabbat, from Friday evening to Saturday evening, especially in Jewish-majority areas. Plan accordingly, as options may be limited during this time, although Arab and Druze towns may still have operating taxis and buses.

While Israel has a reputation for being pricey, budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy a rich experience with some strategic planning. Hostels are popular and high-quality, especially in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Nazareth. Many offer communal kitchens, free walking tours, and even co-working spaces. Street food is both delicious and inexpensive. A falafel or sabich sandwich can cost as little as 15–25 shekels (~$4–$7), and local bakeries offer cheap and satisfying options like bourekas and pita with za’atar. Shop for fresh fruits, snacks, and spices at markets like Mahane Yehuda in Jerusalem or Shuk HaCarmel in Tel Aviv. The Rav-Kav smart card allows for reduced fare on buses, trains, and light rail. You can load the card online or at kiosks. Walking is easy and safe in most cities, and beaches and national parks are mostly free or low-cost. A parks pass offers discounted access to dozens of historical and nature sites. Tap water is safe to drink, and free Wi-Fi is widely available. To avoid high prices during holidays and peak seasons, plan your trip for spring or autumn and book accommodations in advance.

Israel is generally very safe for tourists, with a low rate of violent crime and strong security measures in place. Visitors will notice a visible military and police presence, especially around public areas and religious sites. While geopolitical tensions occasionally rise, tourist areas are rarely affected. Always monitor local news and government travel advisories, and avoid sensitive border zones unless traveling with a tour group. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is rare but can happen in crowded markets or bus stations. Use common sense—don’t leave bags unattended, and secure valuables in lockers when staying in hostels. During times of heightened tension, avoid demonstrations or protests, which can occur in major cities. In case of emergency, know that Israel’s emergency services are efficient and English is widely spoken by professionals.

Israel is culturally diverse, blending secular, religious, Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Druze communities. Modesty is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees when entering synagogues, mosques, or churches. Carrying a scarf or shawl is useful for impromptu visits. Public displays of affection may be frowned upon in conservative areas, but are generally acceptable in cities like Tel Aviv. Shabbat, observed from Friday evening to Saturday evening, is a day of rest for many Jewish Israelis. During this time, businesses may close, especially in Jerusalem and religious neighborhoods, while Arab areas remain active. Hebrew and Arabic are official languages, and English is widely understood. Politeness and directness coexist—Israelis may come off as blunt, but this is cultural, not rude. Tipping is customary at 10–15% in restaurants.

Israel offers an incredible range of experiences suited for every travel style. For history buffs and spiritual travelers, the country is unparalleled in its religious and archaeological depth. Walking through Jerusalem's Old City or visiting ancient ruins in Caesarea provides a moving and unforgettable journey through time. Spiritual seekers will find meaning not just in traditional pilgrimage sites but also in sacred nature spots like the Sea of Galilee or the Judean Desert. Adventure travelers will appreciate Israel’s diversity of landscapes, from trekking in the Golan Heights and rappelling in the Ramon Crater, to scuba diving in the coral reefs of Eilat. Cyclists and hikers can take on the Israel National Trail, which spans the entire country and is well-marked for long-distance travel. Even in urban areas like Tel Aviv, you’ll find activities like paddleboarding, yoga on the beach, or running along scenic boardwalks. For those who lean toward a luxury or culinary-focused experience, Israel’s upscale hotels, high-end restaurants, boutique wineries, and farm-to-table tours cater exceptionally well to discerning tastes. Wine tastings in the Golan or Judean Hills, rooftop dining in Tel Aviv, and curated art or wellness experiences are easily arranged. Budget travelers will find plenty of low-cost options, especially with Israel’s strong hostel scene, affordable street food, and free cultural experiences. The country is also ideal for solo travelers—safe, social, and compact enough to explore deeply in just a few weeks. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a beach bum, a foodie, or a sacred site pilgrim, Israel adapts seamlessly to your travel style and invites exploration on every level.

For budget travelers, Abraham Hostel in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem provides dorms and private rooms, communal kitchens, rooftop bars, and daily activities such as cooking classes and desert tours. It’s perfect for solo travelers and backpackers looking to meet others. Mid-range travelers might enjoy the Setai in Jaffa or Hotel Montefiore in Tel Aviv, both of which balance luxury with authentic design and proximity to major attractions. In Jerusalem, the Harmony Hotel in the historic Nahalat Shiv’a district offers boutique charm and modern comfort. Luxury seekers will appreciate The Norman in Tel Aviv, a beautifully restored Bauhaus-era building with a rooftop infinity pool and curated art. In Jerusalem, the King David Hotel offers world-class service and sweeping views of the Old City, hosting dignitaries and celebrities alike.

Many travelers forget that public transportation halts during Shabbat, leaving them stranded or forced to take expensive taxis. Always check ahead and plan transportation accordingly. Another common oversight is dressing inappropriately when visiting religious sites, leading to denied entry—carry modest clothing in your daypack just in case. It’s also a mistake to underestimate distances. Though Israel is small, traffic can make journeys between cities longer than expected. Booking accommodations without checking proximity to transit or sites can lead to time lost in commute. Finally, failing to hydrate and protect yourself from the sun, especially in desert areas, can quickly lead to heat exhaustion—carry water and wear sunscreen even on short excursions.

Download Gett or Yango for affordable ride-hailing services. Moovit is invaluable for navigating public transportation with real-time updates. Rav-Kav Online lets you manage your transportation card with ease. Google Maps is accurate, but Waze (developed in Israel) is the preferred GPS app for locals. iNakba is an educational app mapping depopulated Palestinian villages, offering historical insight. XE Currency is helpful for currency conversions, and Google Translate bridges occasional language gaps. Booking.com and Hostelworld are excellent for accommodation, while VisitIsrael provides official tourism info.

For a one-week cultural itinerary, start in Tel Aviv for two days of city life, beach time, and Jaffa exploration. Then move to Jerusalem for three days to delve into spiritual history, the Dead Sea, and Masada. End in the north with a day in the Galilee and Golan Heights. A nature-focused trip could include hiking in the Galilee, exploring national parks like Ein Gedi and Ramon Crater, and snorkeling in Eilat. Food lovers can build a tour around Israeli markets, wineries in the Golan, and culinary tours in Tel Aviv. For spiritual travelers, a journey might begin in Nazareth and the Galilee, continue to Jerusalem for deep interfaith exploration, and include lesser-visited religious sites in the West Bank or the Negev.

Israel is home to the world’s largest number of startups per capita and is often referred to as the “Startup Nation.” The Dead Sea is so salty that nothing lives in it—and it's nearly 10 times saltier than the ocean, making floating effortless. Mount Hermon in the north offers a small ski resort, despite the country's mostly arid climate. Tel Aviv boasts the highest number of vegan restaurants per capita in the world, and the city is also one of the world’s most LGBTQ+-friendly destinations.