Top Things to Do and See in Israel

Why Israel rewards the curious traveler

Israel packs ancient history, desert drama and Mediterranean beaches into a country smaller than New Jersey. You can pray at a 2,000-year-old wall in the morning and dance at a Tel Aviv beach bar by night. Here are the experiences worth building a trip around.

Jerusalem's Old City

Walk the four quarters of the walled Old City and visit the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the gleaming Dome of the Rock. Arrive early to beat crowds and walk the ramparts for rooftop views.

Float in the Dead Sea

At around 430 metres below sea level, this is the lowest point on land. The salty water makes you float effortlessly. Coat yourself in the mineral-rich black mud, then rinse at a beach like Ein Bokek.

Masada at sunrise

Climb the Snake Path or ride the cable car to Herod's clifftop fortress overlooking the desert. Watching the sun rise over the Judean wilderness is a bucket-list moment.

Tel Aviv beaches and Bauhaus

Tel Aviv balances vibrant nightlife with miles of sand. Stroll the Tayelet promenade, explore the White City Bauhaus architecture (a UNESCO site) and wander historic Jaffa port for galleries and hummus.

Sea of Galilee and the north

In the green Galilee, visit Capernaum, Tiberias and the wineries of the Golan Heights. Hike at Banias waterfall or kayak the Jordan River.

Bahá'í Gardens in Haifa

Nineteen perfectly manicured terraces cascade down Mount Carmel around the golden-domed shrine. Free guided tours run most mornings; book ahead.

Eilat and the Red Sea

At Israel's southern tip, Eilat offers year-round snorkelling and diving over coral reefs. Visit the Coral Beach Nature Reserve and the underwater observatory.

The Negev desert and Mitzpe Ramon

Stand at the edge of the Ramon Crater, a vast geological gorge. Stargaze, hike, or sleep in a desert eco-lodge under brilliant skies.

Caesarea

Walk a Roman amphitheatre, aqueduct and harbour built by Herod the Great, right on the Mediterranean coast between Tel Aviv and Haifa.

Practical tips

• The Sabbath (Shabbat) runs Friday evening to Saturday evening; public transport pauses and many shops close.
• Carry water and sun protection, especially in the desert.
• Tap water is safe to drink.

Stay connected in Israel

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