Israel Travel Guide: Top Tips & Inspiration

Home to archaeological wonders, significant religious sites, warm Mediterranean weather and delicious food, Israel is an amazing destination to visit.

Considered the world’s biblical Holy Land by Jews, Christians and Muslims, Israel has an incredibly rich history. But history also meets contemporary in this vibrant Middle Eastern country. With its modern infrastructure, travelling around Israel is easy – and friendly locals are always on hand to help!

Check out the Israel travel guide below with our top tips for visiting this beautiful country.

What is Israel known for?

Israel is a religious and cultural hub featuring prominently in both the Bible and the Quran. As the birthplace of Jesus and home to the ascension of Muhammad, the country has an exceptionally rich history, which is still visible today. Israel’s most sacred sites are in Jerusalem, including the Dome of the Rock shrine, the historic Western Wall, Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Israel is also home to the famous Dead Sea.

The best time to visit Israel:

Israel’s warm climate makes it a great year-round destination. The northern and coastal areas have a Mediterranean climate with long hot, dry summers and short cool, rainy winters, while the southern and eastern areas of the country have an arid climate.

Summer is a hot time to visit, but very interesting due to the many religious festivals taking place. If you prefer a milder climate, we recommend visiting in the spring or autumn months.

The best things to eat in Israel:

If you love falafels, hummus and pita, you’ll love eating in Israel! While the country doesn’t have an official national dish, shakshuka and shawarma are very popular, as is meze-style dining.

Israel has plenty of options for vegetarians, and most dishes can be provided with or without meat. Vegans, however, may need to check ingredients in a dish, as yoghurt and cheese are popular elements in Israeli cooking.

Travellers with a sweet tooth won’t be disappointed in Israel, with classics sweets on offer including halva, baklava and kadaif – similar to what you’ll find in Turkey and Greece. Don’t leave Israel without trying some!

The best places to visit in Israel:

Israel may be a small country, but the variety you’ll find there is huge! Its beautiful landscapes are awash with history and culture, and its vibrant cities buzz with modernity.

Any trip to Israel wouldn’t be complete without visiting Jerusalem. It’s the holiest city in the world and the goal of numerous pilgrimages through the ages. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time while wandering through the old city and learning about Jerusalem’s fascinating history in its museums.

Nazareth is another beautiful old city with religious history and Middle-Eastern charm, and is near to the largest lake in the country, The Sea of Galilee – a site of many biblical miracles.

Israel is a great example of a country with rich history that has seamlessly ushered in the modern world. Tel Aviv is the country’s contemporary entertainment hub, with vibrant nightlife alongside stunning beaches and a myriad of markets.

On our Highlights of Israel and Jordan tour, you’ll get to experience all these historic monuments and religious sites alongside the country’s amazing natural oases, including Mount Zion and the Dead Sea – leaving you with a unique lasting impression of this holy country.

What to pack for a trip to Israel:

The best thing to pack for an Israel adventure is lightweight, loose-fitting clothing – and layers. Even if you are travelling in winter you should only need a light jacket, although if you are venturing quite far north it can get quite cold at night.

When visiting religious sites, you’ll be required to wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders, head and knees. A light scarf or shawl is very useful for this. And don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for all that sunshine! Or you can buy it when you arrive.

Want to find out more about this incredible destination? Check out our insider’s guide!