Visiting Israel is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with the country offering a unique blend of culture and history. Whether you are drawn to its religious sites, natural beauty, or vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone here. In this blog post, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on what to expect while visiting Israel for the first time. We’ll explore the various attractions, accommodations, and transportation options, as well as safety tips and advice to help you make your trip a success. So get ready–you’re about to embark on an incredible adventure!
Reasons to Visit Israel
Israel is an incredibly fascinating country located in the Middle East. It has a long and rich history that can be explored in its many historical cities, such as Jerusalem and Nazareth. This is also the birthplace of several major religions and a vital hub connecting Europe, Africa, and Asia. For outdoor lovers, Israel offers incredible opportunities to explore its stunning coastlines and vast desert landscapes.
The country is known for its bustling markets selling traditional handicrafts, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture which makes it a must-visit destination. Most travelers come away feeling moved, unable to deny the spiritual energy they find in the air while visiting this remarkable country.
Where to Stay
No matter what style of holiday you’re looking for, you’ll be able to find something that suits your budget and preferences in Israel. Many travelers looking for luxe accommodations stay on the beaches of Tel Aviv; sunsets here are nothing short of stunning. For a tranquil experience focused on the great outdoors, the Golan Heights and Negev Desert provide starry night skies and plenty of adventure activities like mountain biking, horseback riding, and swimming in springs.
Whether it’s an upscale boutique hotel or a charming B&B in Jerusalem’s backstreets they’re after, visitors to Israel will find themselves spoiled for choice with no shortage of wonderful places to stay. Israel has a vast range of options when it comes to accommodation. Travelers can choose from:
High-End Resorts and Hotels
Offer luxurious amenities and breathtaking views. Whether you’re looking for a five-star hotel in Tel Aviv or an exclusive spa resort in the Negev Desert, Israel has something to suit every taste. For example,
The Royal Beach Tel Aviv is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Tel Aviv, Israel. It features modern, upscale guest rooms and suites, as well as a range of amenities, including a private beach, an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center. The hotel also has a variety of dining options, including a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city. The hotel is situated close to many popular tourist attractions, such as the Carmel Market, the Old Port of Jaffa, and the Tel Aviv Museum of Art.
Address: HaYarkon St 19, Tel Aviv-Yafo
Phone: 03-740-5000
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
The Dan Eilat is a luxury hotel located on the Red Sea in Eilat, Israel. It features spacious guest rooms and suites, many with sea views, as well as a range of amenities, including multiple outdoor pools, a private beach, a spa, and a fitness center. The hotel also has a variety of dining options, including a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and a poolside bar. The hotel is situated close to many popular tourist attractions, such as the Underwater Observatory Marine Park and the Coral Beach Nature Reserve. The hotel is also just a short drive from the Eilat airport, making it convenient for travelers.
Address: Eilat, 88101
Phone: 08-636-2222
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
The David Dead Sea Resort & Spa features a range of luxurious amenities, including a private beach on the Dead Sea, multiple outdoor and indoor swimming pools, a full-service spa, and a fitness center. The hotel offers a variety of room and suite options, many with views of the Dead Sea and the surrounding mountains. The hotel also features a selection of dining options, as well as several recreational activities, such as tennis courts and a private marina.
The hotel is ideally located close to many popular tourist attractions such as Masada, Qumran, and Ein Gedi National Park. The guests of the hotel can enjoy the benefits of the mineral-rich Dead Sea water, which is said to have therapeutic properties. It is also a perfect spot to relax and unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Address: ריזורט וספא, מלון דיוויד ים המלח, Ein Bokek
Phone: 08-659-1234
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Budget Hostels
Provide a great option for travelers who still want to experience the sights and sounds of Israel, but are looking for more affordable accommodations. The country has several clean, comfortable hostels with prices that won’t break the bank. You can expect to find basic amenities like private or shared bathrooms, wifi, and air conditioning, and many hostels offer additional perks like free breakfast or local tours. Whether you’re looking for a roomy dormitory or your private oasis in the city of Jerusalem, budget hostels are an excellent option for anyone visiting Israel on a budget.
Abraham Hostel Jerusalem offers a range of accommodation options, including private rooms and dormitories, as well as a variety of communal spaces, such as a lounge, a kitchen, and a rooftop terrace with views of the Old City. The hostel is centrally located and within walking distance of many popular tourist attractions, such as the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The hostel also offers a variety of activities and tours to help guests explore the city.
Address: Ha-Nevi’im St 67, Jerusalem, 9470211
Phone: 074-701-0772
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Tel Aviv Port Hostel offers a range of accommodation options, including private rooms and dormitories, as well as a variety of communal spaces, such as a lounge and a kitchen. The hostel is centrally located and within walking distance of many popular tourist attractions, such as the Carmel Market and the Old Port of Jaffa. The hostel also offers a variety of activities and tours to help guests explore the city.
Address: 4 Jeremiah St. (corner of Yarkon St.) Tel Aviv, 6350704 Israel
Phone: 03-544-5544
Check-in: starting from 2 PM
Check out: up to 12 AM
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
HI Eilat Hostel offers a range of accommodation options, including private rooms and dormitories, as well as a variety of communal spaces, such as a lounge and a kitchen. The hostel is centrally located and within walking distance of many popular tourist attractions, such as the Underwater Observatory Marine Park and the Coral Beach Nature Reserve. The hostel also offers a variety of activities and tours to help guests explore the city.
Address: Derech Mitsraim 18, Eilat. Mailing address: P.O.B. 152, Eilat 88101
Phone: +9722-5945611
Check-in: starting from 3 PM
Check out: up to 10 AM
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Traditional Kibbutzim
A unique form of accommodation in Israel, providing visitors with an authentic and immersive experience of the local culture. Kibbutzim are communal settlements that have existed since 1909 when Zionism began to take root in the country. These settlements were established as a way for Jewish people to live communally and work together to sustain the community. Today, kibbutzim are still in operation and offer visitors a unique opportunity to live among locals and learn about traditional customs.
Accommodations vary from simple housekeeping units to more luxurious rooms; all come with local hospitality, delicious food, and warm welcomes. Kibbutzim provide travelers with an unbeatable opportunity to immerse themselves in Israeli culture and get a taste of the “real” Israel.
Kibbutz Ein Gev is a traditional kibbutz located on the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee in Israel. It was established in 1949 by a group of Jewish immigrants from Romania and Poland, it’s one of the first kibbutzim in the area. The Kibbutz operates a variety of agricultural businesses, including a fish farm, a winery, and a restaurant. The restaurant is well-known for its delicious fish dishes which are prepared with fish caught from the kibbutz’s own fish farm, and it’s open to the public.
Ein Gev also offers accommodation in a variety of forms such as guest houses and cabins, and it also has a holiday village which is a perfect spot for families. The village offers activities such as fishing, swimming, and sailing on the Sea of Galilee. The kibbutz also has a beach and a promenade, where visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful view of the lake.
Address: Kibbutz Ein-Gev Jordan Valley 1494000
Phone: +972-46659800
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Kibbutz Lotan was established in 1983 by a group of young Israelis, who were interested in developing a sustainable and environmentally friendly community. The kibbutz operates a permaculture center, and also focuses on eco-tourism and recycling. It also has a community center with a restaurant, a farm-to-table bakery, and a, shop for artisanal products. It offers accommodation in eco-friendly guest rooms, tents, and wooden cabins, with yoga and desert activities.
Address: Kibbutz Lotan, DN Hevel Eilot, 88855, Israel
Phone: +972-8-6356888
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Kibbutz Ketura it was established in 1973 and is known for its innovative agricultural and environmental practices. The kibbutz operates a wide range of agricultural businesses, including a date farm and a solar field, and also has a visitor center with a museum about the history and development of the kibbutz. The kibbutz offers accommodation in guest rooms, and also has a restaurant, a swimming pool, and bike rentals. it also offers a variety of eco-tours and activities, such as desert hikes and jeep tours.
Address: Kibbutz Ketura, Eilat 88840 Israel
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Glamping
A great option for travelers looking to enjoy the best of both worlds: the comforts of home coupled with an exciting and immersive outdoor experience. Israel offers plenty of glamping options, ranging from luxury camping in the Golan Heights to tree-houses perched above the Mediterranean Sea.
Whether it’s a relaxing getaway in a tranquil oasis or an adventurous holiday exploring the natural wonders of Israel, you’ll find plenty of unique accommodations available for a memorable glamping experience. From luxury safari tents with private bathrooms and hot tubs to eco-friendly treehouses built from locally sourced materials, there is something for everyone in the beautiful land of Israel.
Beresheet by Isrotel Exclusive Collection is a luxury glamping resort located in the Negev Desert near Mitzpe Ramon, Israel. The resort features a variety of accommodations, ranging from luxury suites and villas to air-conditioned desert tents. Each accommodation comes with modern amenities, such as an outdoor patio with stunning views, private bathrooms, and air conditioning. There is also a variety of activities available onsite, such as yoga classes, ATV tours, camel rides, and stargazing.
Address: דרך בראשית 1, Mitzpe Ramon, 80600
Phone: 08-659-8000
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
The Fauzi Azar Inn is a glamping site located in Nazareth, Israel. It features traditional stone buildings that have been converted into comfortable accommodations, such as tents, cabins, and caravans, all decorated with traditional Palestinian decor. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities on site such as cooking classes, traditional music, and guided tours of Nazareth’s old city.
Address: 6112 St 9, Nazareth
Phone: 074-701-0772
For pictures, booking, and more information, click here.
Travel Documents and Regulations
Traveling to Israel requires travelers to acquire the necessary documents, and adhere to regulations set by the government. Passport holders of certain countries may be exempt from visa requirements, while many other countries will need a pre-arranged visa in advance. It’s important to review any specific regulations that may relate to your particular situation – for instance, travelers must not intend to work or immigrate if they visit temporarily.
An entry permit can also be requested through procedures offered by the Ministry of Interior before planning a trip. Finally, travelers should also familiarize themselves with the import and export laws before their visit as some items require special permits and are otherwise prohibited.
Flight and Transportation Options
Israel is an amazing country filled with historical sights to see and plenty of modern amenities. From international visitors arriving in Israel by plane, travelers visiting the nation have a variety of transportation options including air travel, taxis, buses, and trains.
- Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv is the main hub for most airlines.
- Taxis are convenient for individuals or small groups and offer comfortable transportation throughout the country.
- Buses provide low-cost travel among Israeli cities operated by several companies including Egged Bus Lines.
- The light rail system in Jerusalem serves as an efficient and affordable way to get around the city center.
- Intercity buses for those looking to explore outside of the major cities can utilize allowing them to discover all that this diverse country offers with ease.
No matter how you prefer to navigate Israel, there’s an option available to meet everyone’s needs!
Eat, Drink, and Shop
Israel is a unique country that offers a variety of unique eating, drinking, and shopping experiences. From the world-renowned falafel in Tel Aviv to sampling Carmel wines in the historic coastal town of Zichron Ya’akov to browsing artisan jewelry made in Jerusalem, there’s something tasteful for everyone. Highly diversified dining options range from international cuisine to typical fares like falafel, hummus, and shawarma, perfect for anyone looking to get a taste of local Israeli culture.
Popular cafes serve delicious gourmet coffee and pastries while the vibrant nightlife will remind you why Israel truly is known as “The Land of Milk and Honey!” For those seeking a different kind of experience entirely, shoppers can find an abundance of eclectic markets offering souvenirs as well as handmade garments, jewelry, and pottery crafted by local artisans. Through it all, visitors are sure to feel warmly welcomed throughout their stay in this special country.
Nightlife Scene
From long-standing pubs to glamorous rooftops, nightclubs, concert venues, and trendy speakeasies, Israel offers a vibrant nightlife scene that appeals to many tourists. It is not uncommon for locals to stay out until the early hours of the morning as there is always a large selection of options for nighttime entertainment.
Tel Aviv in particular has become renowned for its infamous partying; many bars serve drinks until 4 am and there are always interesting events or activities happening on any given day of the week. With its warm climate and diverse cultural environment, it’s no wonder why visitors from all corners of the world go to Israel specifically to experience their unique nightlife.
Security Guidelines
It is important to be mindful of safety and security considerations while traveling in Israel. With a heightened security situation, visitors should remain vigilant and alert at all times. Tourists should never carry large amounts of cash with them or display any valuables in public areas. It’s also recommended to avoid visiting potentially volatile areas such as the West Bank and East Jerusalem, if possible.
It is important to stay up to date on the latest security alerts and guidelines, as provided by the U.S. State Department or other relevant embassies in Israel. Additionally, tourists should always follow local laws and customs while visiting this country; failure to do so could result in fines or detainment.
Finally, it is important to take precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night, using caution when taking public transportation or taxis and keeping a copy of all personal documents in case of emergency. Following these guidelines will help ensure that your trip to Israel is a safe and enjoyable one.
In conclusion
Whether you are looking for an unforgettable adventure, trying out one of the country’s many different cuisines, or exploring its religious and cultural heritage, Israel has something to offer everyone. With a wide range of accommodation options and plenty of transportation choices available, travelers can truly make this an experience they’ll never forget. Just be sure to keep in mind the security guidelines while visiting and explore all that Israel has to offer!
Israel is the perfect destination for travelers looking to experience a land like no other. With its rich history and culture, stunning landscapes, and world-class cuisine, it’s easy to see why this is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful countries in the world –– making.
