Israel Travel Guide
Historic, religious, fascinating, photogenic, and never boring, these are just some of the ways visitors describe Israel. Tour Jerusalem, one of the holiest cities in the world and laden with history, visit Tel Aviv for the beaches and nightlife, float in the Dead Sea, climb Masada, and more. From ancient landmarks to modern cities to dramatic deserts, Israel offers a travel experience that is both deeply meaningful and endlessly exciting.
Israel Stats
Official Language: Hebrew
Population: 9.8 million
Capital City: Jerusalem
Currency: Israeli Shekel (ILS)
Power Outlet: Types C and H
Jerusalem
One of the world’s oldest and most sacred cities, Jerusalem is rich in culture and history. Walk the ancient streets, visit important religious sites, and learn more about this city’s vast history.
30 Things To Do in Jerusalem, Israel
Jerusalem is one of the holiest cities in the world. This is where Jews built their sacred Temple, Mohammed rose to heaven, and Jesus was crucified. Laden with history, a joy to wander through, Jerusalem is one of the world’s greatest cities. There is a lot to do here. When I came up with our […]
How to Visit Temple Mount and Dome of the Rock
Temple Mount is one of the most important religious sites in the world. Located on Temple Mount is the Dome of the Rock, one of the most recognizable structures in Jerusalem. The golden dome of Dome of the Rock is seen from the Western Wall, Mount of Olives, Tower of David, and many of Jerusalem’s city […]
Masada & the Dead Sea
How to Plan Your Day Trip to Masada and the Dead Sea
Within the Judean Desert, spend a day touring the fortress of Masada and taking a dip in the Dead Sea.
Negev Desert
Off-the-Beaten-Path in Israel: The Negev Desert
Covering more than half of Israel, the Negev Desert is a vast landscape of rocky canyons and sand dunes with plenty to see.
Israel and Jordan Itinerary
10 Day Israel and Jordan Itinerary: Jerusalem, Petra & the Dead Sea
Extend your trip with a visit to Jordan, visiting the sandstone-carved city of Petra and the other-worldly landscapes of Wadi Rum on this ten day itinerary.
Top Experiences in Israel
Old City of Jerusalem. Compact but filled with historical and religious sites, this 0.9 square kilometer area is the main section of Jerusalem to visit. Bordered with ancient walls, the old city features many of Jerusalem’s most important places to visit, such as Temple Mount, the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and more.
Mount of Olives. Named for the olive groves that once covered its slopes, this mountain has deep religious significance and is home to several important religious sites. From the top you can look out towards the Old City of Jerusalem and across 150,000 graves.
Bethlehem. The birthplace of Jesus, this city sits in the West Bank and is a popular addition on a visit to Jerusalem.
Masada. Masada is the remains of a fortress constructed upon a giant rock plateau that overlooks the Dead Sea. Learn what unfolded at this UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a symbol of Jewish courage and resistance.
Dead Sea. Located at the lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea is almost ten times saltier than the ocean, which makes it easy to float in.
Negev Desert. Covering the southern half of Israel, the Negev Desert is a dry, hot desert with a lot to do. Drive through and marvel at the other-worldly landscape, take a camel tour, go for a hike, go wine tasting, and learn about its history.
Sea of Galilee. This large freshwater lake is said to be the site where Jesus performed miracles such as walking on water. While here, visit Tiberias, the largest city on the lake and an important historical site for Jewish and Christian culture.
Tel Aviv. The commercial capital of Israel, this bustling metropolis is home to beaches, lively markets, museums, vibrant nightlife, and one of the world’s leading tech hotspots. Be sure to also explore the narrow streets of Old Jaffa, believed to be one of the oldest ports in the world.
Yad Vashem. Located on the Mount of Remembrance above Jerusalem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center is one of Israel’s most visited places. This giant complex features a museum and memorials, along with facilities dedicated to the scientific study of the Holocaust.
Baháʼí Garden Haifa. This beautifully manicured garden consists of nineteen terraces with over 1,500 steps leading up to the golden-domed Shrine of the Báb. You will also be treated to views over Haifa as you ascend the stairs.
When to Visit Israel
Israel has an arid climate, featuring hot summers and little to no rainfall over the course of a year. Temperatures peak in the summer months, where highs can reach anywhere from 85°F (29°C) to 103°F (39°C), depending on your location. Temperatures are higher in southern Israel within and around the Negev Desert.
The best time to visit Israel is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) seasons. During these periods, temperatures will be pleasant for outdoor sightseeing, humidity will be lower, and fewer crowds will be present.
Visit in the winter (December-February) for the fewest crowds and colder temperatures, with highs around 60°F (15°C). Flights and hotels could be cheaper, but you may need to layer up for outdoor sightseeing.