From the city to the Dead Sea, there is definitely no shortage of things to see in Israel.
For a country that’s not particularly large, there’s a whole lot of things here to see and do. Whether you’re here for the religious sights, the historic sights, or you just want to float in the dead sea, Israel is guaranteed to have something for you.
7 Things to See in Israel
1) Tel Aviv
If you’re planning on skipping Tel Aviv and heading straight for Jerusalem… don’t!
Tel Aviv is an amazing city that feels relaxed and fun and completely different from other areas of Israel. There’s a thriving nightlife of cool underground clubs and bars here, a large and thriving gay community, and gorgeous beaches to rent a bike and ride around on.
Enjoy a day of exploring the old city of Jaffa and its intricate markets, and be sure to grab Shakshuka at Dr. Shakshuka while you’re there.
Where to Stay in Tel Aviv: Brown TLV Urban Hotel
We loved our time at The Brown TLV Urban Hotel. The decor is hip and modern, the rooftop is an amazing place for a sunset cocktail and the hotel also offers free bike rental.
2) The Dead Sea
You can’t go to Israel and not go to the Dead Sea- it would be like going to New York and not seeing Times Square.
Being able to float around effortlessly is an experience you’ll never forget. Visit the Dead Sea via car or bus from Tel Aviv- it is a bit of a drive, so you might also considering visiting on a tour bus.
If you visit Mineral Beach, you’ll also be able to shower off the salt from your skin, which is an absolute must.
3) Bahai Gardens
The Bahai Gardens are located in Haifa, and are one of the main attractions here. The Bahai Gardens are stunning, and considered a very holy place for the Bahai faith. Millions of Bahai followers make the pilgrimage to the Bahai Gardens and shrine, which pay homage to the founders of the faith.
Haifa: Entrance from Shderot HaTzionut, Yafe Nof and Shderot Ben Gurion
Akko: The Al Bahaja Gardens
Opposite Bustan HaGalil
Telephone (for both sites): +(972)-4-831-3131
Website
4) Acre (Akko)
The ancient city of Akko sits below the earth under the current city and is continually being excavated. This UNESCO world heritage site will take you back thousands of years in history. Walk among the tunnels used by crusaders, circle the ancient city which resisted Napoleon and several others from conquest, and find out more about how this unique place eventually fell. Definitely a must see.
5) Masada
If you don’t have time for a whole lot, you really should not miss Masada. The city, set high atop a desert mountain overlooking the Dead Sea, was conquered by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago, after a 3-year siege.
As it became clear the Romans would indeed claim victory, the people of Masada killed themselves and their families to avoid being taken as slaves.
The ruins are in phenomenal shape and are truly amazing.
6) Yad Vashem
The holocaust memorial and museum of Israel is one of the most moving tributes and memorials I have ever seen and you simply cannot visit this nation without coming here. Tasked with giving names and memorial to the 6 million who died in the Holocaust, the museum is a historical marvel you will most certainly need tissues to visit.
7) Jerusalem
You will most certainly, at some point, visit Jerusalem. There’s literally no way or reason you’d visit this nation without being here. Walk among the ancient streets and find out how the city was continually destroyed and rebuilt.
Walk in the footsteps of Jesus Christ along the Vie Dolorosa and visit the site where he died. Tour the Old City and the Western Wall (wailing wall). Jerusalem holds so much history, it’s impossible to see it all in a few days. I would recommend staying at least 5 days to get the hang of it.
Highights: The Wailing Wall, The City of David, Vie Dolorosa, The Room of the Last Supper, The Tower of David (check out their spectacular light show at night).
Where to Stay in Jerusalem: Leonardo Boutique Tel Aviv
Heading to Israel? Here are some things to know before traveling to Israel.
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“Israel is not a particularly large country…” – it’s the size of New Jersey.
3 more amazing sites:
1. Check out the Negev desert, comprising 60% of the country’s area, specifically a unique formation, a makhtesh or erosion cirque, a crater-like window into geological time.
2. Explore around the Sea of Galilee, the lowest freshwater lake in the world and the place where Jesus preached, the towns of Capernaum, Tabgha, Magdala and Mount of Beatitudes.
3. Drive up onto the Golan, an area of basalt, volcanic rock (whereas most of Israel is limestone) that is great for growing grapes, visit a winery and taste the wines.