The Israel Tourist Attractions

Israel is a country steeped in history, culture, and spirituality, making it a popular destination for travelers from around the world. From the ancient holy city of Jerusalem to the stunning beaches of Tel Aviv, there is no shortage of tourist attractions in Israel. In this complete travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the must-see places in Israel and provide tips for making the most of your visit.

It is a land of ancient history and modern innovation, with something for everyone. Whether you are looking Israel tourist Attractions places for an adventure in the great outdoors, a culinary experience, or a chance to explore the country’s religious and cultural heritage, Israel has it all.

Israel boasts a variety of captivating tourist attractions places that offer visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Here is a comprehensive travel guide for Israel, covering everything you need to know to plan your trip.

Best Time to Visit Israel

The best time to visit Israel is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) months when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are fewer. The summer months (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winters (December-February) can be rainy and chilly.

How to Get to Israel

Israel is well-connected to the rest of the world, with direct flights from major cities across the globe. The main airport in Israel is Ben Gurion International Airport, located near Tel Aviv. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a train to reach your destination.

Getting Around Israel

Israel has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trains, and shared taxis. The train network connects major cities, while the buses cover smaller towns and villages. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive.

Where to Stay in Israel

Israel offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. The most popular tourist destinations are Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and the Dead Sea. In Tel Aviv, you can stay in the bustling city center or in the trendy neighborhoods of Jaffa and Florentin. In Jerusalem, you can choose to stay in the Old City or the modern part of town.

Top Tourist Attractions in Israel and top 10 things to visit in each of these places

Israel is home to a plethora of tourist attractions, ranging from historical sites to natural wonders. Here are some must-visit places. Here ere are the top 10 things to visit in each of these places with some details and information on how to get there:

Jerusalem Old City

As one of the oldest cities in the world, Jerusalem is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Israel.

The heart of the three Abrahamic religions, the Old City is home to the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock. You can wander through the narrow streets of the Old City and explore its markets, restaurants, and museums.

This is one of the best Israel tourist attractions. Must visit! Some of the top attractions to visit here are the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Dome of the Rock, and the Tower of David. Read also: Siege of Jerusalem (597 BC and 587 BC)

From left to right: Dome of the Rock , Al-Aqsa Mosque, Jerusalem Walls, Gethsemane Basilica, Tower of David, Wailing Wall, Golden Gate, Mount of Olives, Holy Sepulchre, Mount Zion, and Damascus Gate. Aurelio de Sandoval, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Top Tourist Attractions in Jerusalem Old City:

1. Western Wall (also known as the Wailing Wall or Kotel): is a sacred site for Jews and one of the holiest places in Judaism. Visitors can write prayers on small pieces of paper and place them in the crevices of the wall.
2. Church of the Holy Sepulchre: is a Christian holy site that is believed to be the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection. Visitors can explore the church’s various chapels and shrines.
3. Dome of the Rock: is an Islamic shrine that is located on the Temple Mount. Visitors can admire the shrine’s beautiful blue and gold dome and intricate mosaics.
4. Mount of Olives: it offers stunning views of the Old City and is home to several important religious sites, including the Church of All Nations and the Garden of Gethsemane.
5. Via Dolorosa: is the path that Jesus is believed to have taken on his way to his crucifixion. Visitors can follow the path and visit the various stations of the cross.
6. Tower of David Museum: is housed in an ancient citadel and offers visitors a comprehensive history of Jerusalem.
7. Jewish Quarter: is one of the four quarters of the Old City and is home to many synagogues, yeshivas, and archaeological sites.
8. Al-Aqsa Mosque: is the third holiest site in Islam and is also located on the Temple Mount. Visitors can explore the mosque’s ornate interior.
9. City of David Archaeological Park: according to biblical references, the original location of the Old City of Jerusalem during the time of King David. It was located south of the Temple Mount, between Tyropœon to the west, and the Kidron Valley to the east (the latter separates it from the Arab quarter of Silwan, to the southeast, to which it is often equated) .
10. Church of All Nations: The Church of All Nations is a Catholic church located at the foot of the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, at a place called “Gethsemane”. Built from 1922 to 1924, it contains the rock at the foot of which, according to tradition, Jesus prayed during his agony, before his arrest.

How to get to Jerusalem Old City:

Jerusalem is well-connected by public transportation, and the Old City is easily accessible by bus or light rail. The Old City of Jerusalem is located in the heart of Jerusalem and can be reached by public transportation, taxi, or on foot.

By Bus: There are several bus lines that run to Jerusalem from major cities in Israel, including Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Be’er Sheva. Once in Jerusalem, the city’s light rail train system is available for transportation within the city. Egged Bus Company operates bus lines from major cities in Israel to Jerusalem. You can find the schedule and prices on their website: https://www.egged.co.il/. Within the city, the light rail train system is operated by CityPass, and you can find information on their website: https://www.citypass.co.il/en/.

By Train: Israel Railways operates a train service to Jerusalem from several major cities in Israel, including Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Be’er Sheva. From the train station in Jerusalem, buses and light rail trains are available for transportation within the city. Israel Railways operates train services from major cities in Israel to Jerusalem. You can find the schedule and prices on their website: https://www.rail.co.il/en.

Masada

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Masada is an ancient fortress perched on a mountaintop overlooking the Dead Sea. It is known for its dramatic history and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of the plateau and explore the ruins of the fortress, including the palace, synagogue, and Roman siege ramp.

Aerial photograph of Masada (Hebrew מצדה), Israel. Andrew Shiva CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikipedia

Israel tourist attractions places in Masada

1. Masada Fortress: The Masada Fortress is an ancient fortress that sits atop a mesa overlooking the Dead Sea. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the site’s history.
2. Cable Car: Visitors can take a cable car up to the fortress and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding desert.
3. Herod’s Palace: Herod’s Palace was built by King Herod and is one of the most well-preserved buildings at Masada.
4. Roman Siege Ramp: The Roman Siege Ramp is an impressive engineering feat that was used by the Romans to breach the fortress’s defenses.
5. Bathhouse: The Masada Bathhouse is one of the best-preserved structures on the site and offers a glimpse into ancient Roman bathing practices.
6. Synagogue: The Masada Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in Israel and is an important site for Jewish history.
7. Hiking Trails: Visitors can choose from several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
8. Sunrise/Sunset: Watching the sunrise or sunset from Masada is a popular activity, as the colors of the sky reflect off the nearby Dead Sea.
9. Museum: The Masada Museum offers visitors a comprehensive history of the site and the events that took place there.
10. Audio Guide: An audio guide is available for visitors to learn about the site’s history and significance.

How to get there:

Masada is located about 90 minutes from Jerusalem by car or bus.

From Tel Aviv: You can take a bus from Tel Aviv’s central bus station to the Masada National Park. The journey takes around 3-4 hours and costs about 60-70 shekels. Alternatively, you can take a bus to the nearby city of Arad and then take a taxi or shuttle to Masada. You can find more information and schedules on the Egged bus company website: https://www.egged.co.il/

By Bus: Egged Bus Company operates a bus service from Jerusalem to Masada, which runs several times a day. The journey takes about 2 hours and includes a stop at the Dead Sea. Egged Bus Company (https://www.egged.co.il/) operates bus lines from Jerusalem to Masada. The bus line number is 486, and the schedule can be found on the Egged website or app.

By Tour: Many tour companies offer day trips to Masada from Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and other cities in Israel. These tours typically include transportation, entrance fees, and a guided tour of the site. Many tour companies offer day trips to Masada from Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and other cities in Israel. Some popular tour operators include Tourist Israel (https://www.touristisrael.com/tours/masada-and-dead-sea-tour/) and Abraham Tours (https://abrahamtours.com/tours/masada-sunrise-hike-dead-sea/).

Dead Sea

The lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea is known for its therapeutic mud and mineral-rich waters.

Visitors can float effortlessly in the salty waters, take a mud bath, and enjoy the healing properties of the mineral-rich mud. The surrounding area also offers stunning desert landscapes and opportunities for hiking and adventure.

Ein Bokek – Dead Sea. Tiia Monto, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

1. Ein Gedi Nature Reserve: A beautiful nature reserve with waterfalls, hiking trails, and rare plants and animals.
2. Masada Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is famous for its ancient fortress and stunning views of the Dead Sea.
3. Qumran National Park: The site where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered, with ruins of an ancient settlement.
4. Mineral Beach: A public beach on the Dead Sea that is known for its mineral-rich mud and therapeutic properties.
5. Mount Sodom: The world’s largest salt mountain, with breathtaking views of the Dead Sea and the surrounding desert.
6. Dead Sea Panorama: A lookout point that offers stunning panoramic views of the Dead Sea and the surrounding area.
7. Baptism Site: The traditional site where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist, located on the Jordan River.
8. Lot’s Cave: A biblical site that is said to be the place where Lot and his daughters took refuge during the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah.
9. Ein Bokek Beach: Another public beach on the Dead Sea, known for its mineral-rich mud and therapeutic properties.
10. Neve Midbar Beach: A private beach with access to a spa and other amenities, offering a luxurious experience at the Dead Sea.

How to get there:

The Dead Sea is easily accessible by car or bus from Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, or other major cities in Israel.

Bus: Egged Bus Company (https://www.egged.co.il/) operates several bus lines that run to the Dead Sea from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. The bus line numbers are 421, 486, and 487, and the schedule can be found on the Egged website or app.

Tour: Many tour companies offer day trips to the Dead Sea from Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and other cities in Israel. Some popular tour operators include Tourist Israel (https://www.touristisrael.com/tours/dead-sea-tours/) and Abraham Tours (https://abrahamtours.com/tours/masada-sunrise-hike-dead-sea/).

Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv is a vibrant city with a lively nightlife, beautiful beaches, and a rich cultural scene. It is home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters.

If you’re looking for a more modern and cosmopolitan experience, Tel Aviv is the perfect destination. This vibrant city is known for its beautiful beaches, bustling nightlife, and thriving arts scene. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums, enjoy the local cuisine, and take in the stunning Mediterranean coastline.

Panorama of Tel Aviv. TelAviv-Pano1.jpg: YnhockeyTelAviv-RamatGan-Pano1.jpg: YnhockeyAzriely_Center.jpg: Rastaman3000Jaffa_Tour_horloge.JPG: Remi JouanIsrael_-_Tel_Aviv_Beach_001.JPG: EdoMTel_Aviv’s_White_City.jpg: Paul SimpsonRabinSquare.jpg: Cccc3333 at en.wikipediaderivative work: Shlomohasoon, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

1. Jaffa Port: A historic port city that has been in use for over 3,000 years, with a lively market, art galleries, and cafes.
2. Rothschild Boulevard: A tree-lined boulevard that is home to many of Tel Aviv’s best restaurants and cafes, as well as the Independence Hall Museum.
3. Carmel Market: A bustling market filled with fresh produce, spices, and other local specialties.
4. Tel Aviv Museum of Art: A modern art museum with a collection of Israeli and international art.
5. Old Tel Aviv Port: A popular entertainment complex with restaurants, bars, and shops.
6. Neve Tzedek: A trendy neighborhood with boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries.
7. Dizengoff Street: A busy shopping street that is home to many fashion boutiques and trendy cafes.
8. Bialik Street: A historic street with restored buildings from the early 20th century, now home to art galleries and museums.
9. Habima Square: A cultural center with theaters and museums, as well as a popular spot for people-watching.
10. Tel Aviv Beaches: With over 16 kilometers of coastline, Tel Aviv has some of the best beaches in Israel, including Hilton Beach and Gordon Beach.

How to get there:

Bus: Egged Bus Company (https://www.egged.co.il/) operates bus lines from major cities in Israel to Tel Aviv. In Tel Aviv, the city’s public transportation includes buses and a light rail train system (https://www.citypass.co.il/en).

Within Tel Aviv: Tel Aviv has an extensive public transportation network of buses, taxis, and the Dan bus company’s “sherut” shared taxi vans. You can find more information and schedules on the Dan bus company website: https://www.dan.co.il/

Train: Israel Railways (https://www.rail.co.il/en) operates a train service to Tel Aviv from several major cities in Israel, including Jerusalem, Haifa, and Be’er Sheva.

Caesarea

Caesarea is a historic port city located on the Mediterranean coast, with a rich history dating back to the Roman period. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins, including the impressive amphitheater and the Crusader fortress, and learn about the city’s fascinating history.

An ancient Roman city located on the Mediterranean coast, Caesarea is home to well-preserved ruins, including a theater and a hippodrome.

1. Caesarea National Park: A historic site with ancient ruins, including a Roman amphitheater, a Crusader fortress, and a Byzantine-era palace.
2. Caesarea Aqueduct Beach: A beautiful beach with clear water and an ancient aqueduct running through the water.
3. Caesarea Harbor: A picturesque harbor with restaurants, shops, and a museum.
4. Caesarea Golf Club: A world-class golf course with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
5. Ralli Museum: A museum of contemporary Latin American art, housed in a beautiful building in Caesarea.
6. Caesarea Maritima: The ancient Roman city that once stood in the same location, with ruins that can be explored.
7. Mount Carmel National Park: A nature reserve with hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
8. Aqueduct Beach: A secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and views of the ancient aqueduct.
9. Caesarea Amphitheater: A well-preserved Roman amphitheater, with a capacity of up to 4,000 spectators.
10. Crusader City: The ruins of a Crusader city that was built in the 12th century, with a fortress and other structures.

How to get there:

Caesarea is located around 50 km (31 miles) north of Tel Aviv, and is easily accessible by car or train. Caesarea is located about an hour’s drive from Tel Aviv. There are also public transport options available, as well as organized tours from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

Bus: Egged Bus Company (https://www.egged.co.il/) operates bus lines from Tel Aviv to Caesarea. The bus line number is 910, and the schedule can be found on the Egged website or app.

Yad Vashem

Yad Vashem is Israel’s Holocaust museum and memorial. It is a solemn but important site that pays tribute to the six million Jews who were killed during the Holocaust.

Aerial view of the new Yad Vashem (Hebrew: יד ושם) Holocaust museum designed by Moshe Safdie. Andrew Shiva, Author: Godot13 (CC BY-SA 4.0) / Wikipedia

1. Holocaust History Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of the Holocaust, with exhibitions on Jewish life before, during, and after the Holocaust.
2. Hall of Names: A memorial to the six million Jews who were killed in the Holocaust, with a database of names and stories of the victims.
3. Children’s Memorial: A memorial to the one-and-a-half million Jewish children who were killed in the Holocaust, with a candle-lit underground chamber.
4. Valley of the Communities: A symbolic representation of the Jewish communities that were destroyed during the Holocaust, with stones from each community.
5. Yad Vashem Art Museum: A museum with a collection of art related to the Holocaust, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs.
6. Memorial to the Deportees: A memorial to the Jews who were deported from various countries during the Holocaust, with a railway car.
7. Garden of the Righteous Among the Nations: A garden dedicated to non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust.
8. Holocaust Survivors and Victims Database: An online database that contains information about the victims and survivors of the Holocaust.
9. Synagogue at Yad Vashem: A reconstructed synagogue from a Jewish community that was destroyed during the Holocaust.
10. Yad Vashem Library: A research library with a collection of books and documents related to the Holocaust.

How to get there:

Yad Vashem is located in Jerusalem, and is easily accessible by bus or light rail.

Bus: Egged Bus Company (https://www.egged.co.il/) operates bus lines from Jerusalem to Yad Vashem. The bus line number is 28, and the schedule can be found on the Egged website or app.

Haifa

Haifa is a coastal city with a rich history and beautiful scenery. Visitors can explore the Bahai Gardens, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the city’s vibrant arts scene.

1. Bahai Gardens: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a stunning example of Persian-inspired garden design.
2. Stella Maris Monastery: A historic monastery that offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
3. Carmel Beach: A beautiful sandy beach with clear water and views of the Carmel Mountains.
4. Haifa Zoo: A popular attraction that is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world.
5. Haifa Museum of Art: A museum with a collection of Israeli and international art, including works by Marc Chagall.
6. Mount Carmel National Park: A nature reserve with hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
7. Clandestine Immigration and Naval Museum: A museum that tells the story of Jewish immigration to Palestine during the British Mandate.
8. Elijah’s Cave: A biblical site that is said to be the place where the prophet Elijah hid from persecution.
9. Wadi Nisnas: A historic neighborhood with narrow streets, colorful murals, and small shops selling traditional Arab goods.
10. Haifa’s German Colony: A neighborhood with restored 19th-century buildings that were once home to German Templers.

How to get there:

Haifa is easily accessible by train or bus from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem.

Bus: Egged Bus Company (https://www.egged.co.il/) operates bus lines from major cities in Israel to Haifa. In Haifa, the city’s public transportation includes buses and a cable car system (https://www.npc.co.il/en/).

Sea of Galilee

The Sea of Galilee is a freshwater lake that is believed to be the site of many biblical events. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the lake, visit ancient synagogues and churches, and explore the surrounding nature reserves.

A photograph of the shore at the Sea of Galilee taken from moshav Kahal, near Highway 85 in northern Israel. Alexey Goral, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

1. Mount of Beatitudes: A hill where Jesus is said to have delivered the Sermon on the Mount, with a beautiful church and gardens.
2. Capernaum: A biblical site that is said to be the hometown of Jesus, with ruins of an ancient synagogue and houses.
3. Tabgha: A site where Jesus is said to have performed the miracle of the multiplication of loaves and fishes, with a church and beautiful mosaics.
4. Yardenit: A baptismal site on the Jordan River, where visitors can participate in a baptism ceremony.
5. Tiberias: A historic city on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, with ancient ruins, a picturesque waterfront, and a thriving food scene.
6. Beit She’an National Park: A national park with impressive Roman and Byzantine ruins, including a theater, a bathhouse, and a colonnaded street.
7. Hamat Tiberias National Park: A national park with a hot springs complex that has been used for therapeutic purposes for thousands of years.
8. Gan Hashlosha National Park: A nature reserve with natural pools and waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery.
9. Mount Arbel: A mountain with breathtaking views of the Sea of Galilee and the surrounding countryside, with hiking trails and caves.
10. Kibbutz Ginosar: A kibbutz that is home to a museum that houses a 2,000-year-old fishing boat that was discovered on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.

How to get there:

How to get there: you can take a bus or drive from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv.

Bus: Egged Bus Company (https://www.egged.co.il/) operates bus lines from major cities in Israel to the Sea of Galilee area. In the area, the public transportation includes buses and taxis.

Acre

Acre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to an impressive Crusader fortress, an Ottoman-era citadel, and a picturesque old town with narrow streets and colorful markets. This city is one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the country.

Acre (Acco) is a city in the Western Galilee region of northern Israel at the northern extremity of Haifa Bay.

Acre (Acco) is a city in the Western Galilee region of northern Israel at the northern extremity of Haifa Bay. AVRAHAM GRAICER, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

1. Old City of Acre: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to a Crusader fortress, a Turkish bathhouse, a mosque, and other historic buildings.
2. Al-Jazzar Mosque: A beautiful mosque with impressive Ottoman-era architecture, including a large dome and minarets.
3. Knights’ Halls: A series of underground halls that were once used by the Knights Hospitaller during the Crusades.
4. Templars’ Tunnel: A secret tunnel that was used by the Knights Templar to transport goods and supplies.
5. The Bahai Gardens: A beautiful garden that is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, with terraced gardens and stunning views.
6. The Acre Turkish Bazaar: A bustling market with shops selling traditional Arab goods, including spices, textiles, and ceramics.
7. The Underground Prisoners Museum: A museum that tells the story of the Jewish underground fighters who were held in Acre’s British Mandate-era prison.
8. The Ethnographic Museum: A museum that showcases the material culture of the region’s different communities, including Jews, Muslims, and Christians.
9. The Treasures in the Walls Museum: A museum that is located in a historic Ottoman-era house and showcases the history of Acre’s Jewish community.
10. The Ramhal Synagogue: A beautiful synagogue that was built in the 18th century and is still in use today.

How to get there:

• From Tel Aviv: There are regular trains from Tel Aviv to Acre. The journey takes around 1 hour and costs about 25 shekels. Alternatively, you can take bus number 921 from the Tel Aviv central bus station, which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes and costs about 25 shekels. You can find more information and schedules on the Israel Railways website: https://www.rail.co.il/en/
• From Haifa: There are frequent trains from Haifa to Acre, which take around 20-30 minutes and cost about 11 shekels. You can find more information and schedules on the Israel Railways website.
• From other parts of Israel: You can search for bus and train routes and schedules on the Moovit app or website: https://moovitapp.com/

Eilat

Eilat is a popular resort town located on the Red Sea. It is known for its coral reefs, which are perfect for snorkeling and diving, as well as its beautiful beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Eilat, Israel. vbif333, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

1. Coral Beach Nature Reserve: A beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and a diverse array of marine life, including colorful corals and tropical fish.
2. Dolphin Reef: A unique attraction where visitors can swim and interact with dolphins in their natural habitat.
3. Underwater Observatory Marine Park: An underwater observatory that allows visitors to see marine life up close without getting wet.
4. Eilat Botanical Garden: A botanical garden that showcases the flora of the Negev Desert and the Arava Valley.
5. Timna Park: A nature reserve that is home to stunning rock formations and ancient copper mines.
6. Red Canyon: A canyon with vibrant red sandstone formations that offer breathtaking views.
7. The Eilat Museum: A museum that tells the story of Eilat’s history, including its role as a strategic port and its transformation into a popular tourist destination.
8. King’s City: An amusement park that features a variety of rides and attractions, including a 4D movie theater and a medieval castle.
9. Ice Space: A unique attraction where visitors can experience the sensation of being in sub-zero temperatures.
10. Mosh Beach: A popular beach that is known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the Red Sea.

How to get there:

• From Tel Aviv: There are direct flights from Tel Aviv to Eilat’s Ramon Airport, which take around 1 hour and cost about 100-200 shekels. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Tel Aviv’s central bus station to Eilat, which takes about 4-5 hours and costs about 70-100 shekels. You can find more information and schedules on the Egged bus company website: https://www.egged.co.il/
• From other parts of Israel: You can search for bus and flight routes and schedules on the Moovit app or website. Additionally, there is a train line currently under construction that will connect Eilat to the rest of the country, with an expected completion date of 2025.

Food and Drink in Israel

Israel is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, which is influenced by the country’s cultural and religious diversity, as well as its geography and history. Israeli cuisine is a fusion of various Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, with an emphasis on fresh vegetables, grilled meats, and spicy dips.

Israel has a rich and diverse culinary scene, influenced by Jewish, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and North African cuisines.
Sabich. Gilabrand, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Here are some must-try dishes:

• Hummus: A chickpea dip served with warm pita bread. A dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini (sesame seed paste), lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Hummus is a staple food in Israel and is often served with pita bread or vegetables.
• Falafel: Deep-fried chickpea balls served in a pita with salad and tahini sauce. A popular street food made from ground chickpeas or fava beans that are seasoned with herbs and spices, formed into balls, and deep-fried. Falafel is typically served in a pita with vegetables and tahini sauce.
• Shakshuka: A breakfast dish of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce. A popular breakfast dish made from eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce with onions, peppers, and spices. Shakshuka is typically served with bread for dipping.

Pan of shakshuka, a poached egg & tomato sauce dish popular in Israel. Gilabrand, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• Sabich: A pita sandwich filled with fried eggplant, boiled egg, salad, and tahini sauce. A popular street food that originated in Iraq and is now popular in Israel. It consists of a pita stuffed with fried eggplant, hard-boiled egg, hummus, tahini sauce, and vegetables.
• Shawarma: slices of marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb) cooked on a spit and served in a pita with salads and sauces.

Shawarma. Roee Shpernik (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons

• Israeli wine: Israel is becoming known for its high-quality wines, with several award-winning wineries located in the country. Israel has a thriving wine industry, with many wineries producing high-quality wines that reflect the country’s unique climate and terroir. Some popular varietals include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Shiraz.
• Arak: An anise-flavored alcoholic drink that is popular in Israel and other Middle Eastern countries. Arak is typically served with water and ice and is enjoyed as an aperitif.
• Turkish coffee: A strong and flavorful coffee that is brewed in a small pot called a cezve and served in small cups. Turkish coffee is a popular drink in Israel and is often enjoyed with a sweet pastry or cookie.
• Bureka – a savory pastry filled with cheese, potatoes, spinach, or ground beef, among other fillings.
• Malabi – a dessert made from milk pudding, flavored with rosewater or orange blossom water, and topped with pistachios or shredded coconut.
• Jerusalem Bagel – a long, oval-shaped bread that’s boiled in water and sprinkled with sesame seeds before being baked.
• Knafeh – a sweet pastry made of shredded phyllo dough filled with sweet cheese, soaked in sweet syrup, and sprinkled with pistachios.

LGBT in Israel

LGBT Tel Aviv has become one of the most renowned gay and tolerant cities in the world. The Pride Parade held there every June draws a growing crowd year after year, often from afar.

Since 2008, an international gay film festival has also been held in Tel Aviv: “Israeli international LGBT film festival”48.

Tel Aviv has a vibrant and diverse LGBTQ+ community, and there are several bars and clubs that cater to gay and lesbian patrons.

Gay Pride in Tel Aviv in 2019. Ted Eytan, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Some of the popular gay and lesbians bars include:

• Shpagat: This is a trendy gay bar that is known for its lively atmosphere, great music, and friendly staff. It’s located in the heart of Tel Aviv, near Rothschild Boulevard.

• Evita (CLOSED): This is a popular lesbian bar that has been around for over 20 years. It’s known for its relaxed atmosphere, diverse crowd, and great drinks. It’s located on Yavneh Street, near the Carmel Market.
• Apolo (CLOSED): This is a large gay club that hosts regular themed parties and events. It’s located near the beach in the southern part of Tel Aviv.

As for public transportation, Tel Aviv has an extensive network of buses and trains that serve the city and the surrounding areas. The main bus station is located in the southern part of the city, near the HaHagana train station. There are also several train stations throughout the city, including the Tel Aviv HaShalom and Tel Aviv Savidor stations, which provide connections to other cities in Israel.

To plan your trip using public transportation, you can use the Moovit app or the Egged website. Both provide real-time information about bus and train schedules, routes, and fares.

Sources: PinterPandai, LaidBackTrip, Lonely Planet

Photo credit: Gilad Avidan (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons

Photo description: a long exposure shot of the southern Tel Aviv skyline, including the Azrieli towers in the center. This shot was taken from Moshe Aviv tower.

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