Israel Travel Blog

During Israel’s summer season which lasts from June to the end of August there are a number of festivals and special events which are worth attending. Here are a few of the highlights of Israeli summer events and festivals.June 27 White Night International FestivalTel aviv white night 2013Spend the night in Tel-Aviv when the restaurants stay open all night and there are late night performances both in cinemas and on the streets. Craft markets and musical performances pop up on the streets of Tel-Aviv throughout the night and the main event is the International Marathon of Jazz and Avant-garde Music which is held in the Einav Culture Center.June 5-13 Jerusalem Light festivalThe streets and walls of the Old City are brought to life by displays of light sculptures, light designs, light statues, instillations, projected images and live performances. Entrance is free and visitors can wander the streets admiring the light displays,July 23-25 Karmiel Dance FestivalA huge gathering of over 10,000 dancers perform in 80 events in the town of Karmiel. Together with the performances there are audience participation dances, workshops, public folk dances where anyone can join in and other events like a market, food stalls etc. Over 25,000 visitors are expected to attend the annual festival in 2013.August 5-8 Israeli Wine Tasting festivalHeld at the Jerusalem museum the entrance fee gets you a wine glass for unlimited tasting, cheese tasting and entry to the museum galleries. The event takes place in the museum gardens and is accompanied by live jazz performances. The price is approximately 80NIS.August 15-28 International Arts and Crafts FestivalArtists and craft makers from around the world gather here to display and sell their creations. The event takes place just outside the Jerusalem Old City walls in the Jerusalem Arts and Crafts Art Amphitheater while concerts play in the nearby Sultan’s Pool. The festival takes place in the evening from 6pm to 11pm and is closed on Friday.August 6-8 International Klezmer Festivalklezmer festivalThis uniquely Jewish form of music is celebrated for the 23rd year in several venues throughout the country, the best known being in Safed where 45 performers showcase “Jewish soul music”. In Safed 8 stages are set up throughout the city and other events are held like craft fairs, tours and kid’s shows. Klezmer music is from the Hassidic tradition of Eastern Europe and groups of musicians play classical instruments to a unique rhythm. Entrance to all performances is free.August 22-23 Jerusalem Beer FestivalJerusalem is not just a holy city it is also a great city for the young who want a good party, for example the annual beer festival offers a chance to sample beers from around the world and enjoy the street party atmosphere. Both craft beers and mainstream beers are served from stands set up in the Old Train Station compound. There are food stands, live performances and stalls selling souvenirs and crafts. The beerfest takes place from 6pm until midnight and entry costs 30NIS which doesn’t include beer.August 22-25 Red Sea Jazz FestivalIf you happen to be in Eilat during this period you can attend this annual festival now in its 26th year. Each night there are about 8 concerts and during the day master classes, workshops and jam sessions. Artists are national and international and perform a range of jazz styles from Blues to Latin jazz in three Eilat venues. The exact dates for the 2013 festival have not yet been published.

HanukahHanukah is the Jewish festival of lights when each home displays an eight pronged candelabra in the window and lights an additional candle each night. The festival commemorates the events of the 2nd century and the Maccabean revolt against the Greeks, when the Jewish Temple was destroyed and only a small jar of oil remained to light the temple “menorah” or candelabra. A miracle occurred and the oil lasted for 8 nights until more oil could be found. If you’re in Israel during Hanukah 2013 you can take a walk through the streets of Jerusalem to see the flickering lights of the Hanukah menorah in each window. Nachlaot and the Jewish Quarter in the Old City of Jerusalem are two of the oldest neighborhoods where you can see the traditional oil and wick candles in glass cases (to protect them from the wind) in each doorway, window or courtyard.Christmas Tree DecoratingAlthough Christmas is not as evident in Israel as in the western countries it is after all the birth place of Jesus and as such the small Christian community goes all out to make the festive season memorable. In the lobby of the beautiful YMCA building in central Jerusalem the general public are invited to join in decorating Christmas trees. The trees are Arizona cypress trees donated by the Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund. On Christmas Eve (December 24th) at 7pm, you can also attend a Christmas carol family service (in English), share light refreshments and take communion (if you choose) at the YMCA. For more Christmas carol singing and a multilingual Christmas Midnight Mass visit the Pontifical Institute (Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center) at 11:30pm on December 24th.Humor and SatireThe best artists in Israel were asked to create sculptures that reflect happiness, laughter and joy. Their brief was to reinvent laughter and illustrate it is a spectacular way. This is as yet the largest outdoor exhibit in the country featuring 210 sculptures by 63 artists which will be displayed in rotation.

Israel has a number of international film festivals but Docaviv is the biggest. The festival is exclusively for documentary films typically featuring about 80 films each year. 2013 will be the 15th annual Docaviv Festival. The films come from both Israel and the rest of the world and the festival attracts professionals from the international documentary film industry. Many films make their debut at Docaviv with their premier showing and others come directly from prestigious festivals like the Sundance Film Festival. The subject matter covers a broad spectrum of topics including political, cultural, social and anthropological.Apart from the rich variety of documentary film screenings at the festival there are also a number of events and attractions put on during the festival. The 2012 Docaviv featured outdoor screenings of iconic musical performances and a video art exhibition and similar attractions are expected in 2013. Several awards will be given including an award for Debut Film, Best Cinematography, Best Editing and Best Student Film. For the final closing of the festival there will be a free event open to the public held in the Habima National Square.When: Annually for 10 days in Spring. May 2 – 11, 2013Where: Tel-Aviv Cinematheque, Tel-Aviv Museum of Art, ZOA House and other venues in Tel-Aviv, Israel.

Once a year the Old City of Jerusalem reverts to the Middle Ages and visitors can wander the narrow cobbled lanes and encounter scenes with knights doing gallant and valiant acts! The theme of this year’s Knights of the Night Festival is “Knights and Dragons” and entrance to the fun family event is free!As you stroll through the streets of the Old City you may see musicians performing medieval music; dancers in medieval costume; magicians who look remarkably like Merlin and Jesters offering comic relief. Knights and dragons also feature prominently, with re-enacted jousting, sword fights and duels. Town criers ring their bells to beckon pedestrians to the various stages set up for performers and above the streets flags fly. In previous years there have even been performances by costumed “knights” battling as they hang from wires and fly through the air with the ancient city walls as their background.You may see medieval blacksmiths or the local executioner with his big axe waiting in the shadows! In previous years performers from other countries have joined Israelis in the many street shows and in 2013 artists from the Venice Festival will be participating in the event. Peddlers in medieval costume and fire eaters perform as the medieval music permeates the air. You may even see a performance from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet performed from a real balcony or a knight in shining armor rescuing a princess. Get your fortune told by a soothsayer and cheer for the troubadours!For the 2013 Knights Festival some of the stations planned include a knight’s banquet at the Jaffa Gate; a victory parade; a battle between knights and dragons where the audience will be invited to join in; a treasure hunt with audience participation and a half-man-half-dragon chasing after a maiden in distress along St. Peter Street. Adults can purchase a wooden goblet and enter the Knights Bar to quench their thirst.To experience this slice of living history enter the Old City of Jerusalem through the Jaffa Gate and follow the circular route to the Muristan Square and back again to the Jaffa Gate. The fun and games will occur from 6pm to 11pm in the Christian Quarter of Jerusalem’s Old City and will be held on the 31st October and 7th, 14th and 21st of November 2013 (consecutive Thursdays). Entrance is free and the event is suitable for the whole family.

The Pope’s Holy Land Pilgrimage will include a visit to Jordan, followed on 11-15 May by a visit to Israel and the holy sites in Jerusalem, Nazareth and Bethlehem. The Pope will also meet with religious leaders during his five day visit. The highlight of the Pope’s visit to Israel will be Holy Mass at the Kidron Valley in Jerusalem, where thousands are expected to participate on the afternoon of 12 May. The Pope will also visit Yad Vashem (11 May) and the Temple Mount, Western Wall, Mount Zion, the Cenacle and Gethsemane Church on 12 May. After a visit to Bethlehem and Mass at Manger Square, (13 May), the Pope will deliver another Mass in Nazareth at Mount Precipice and pray at the Church of the Annunciation (14 May).Bein Harim offers you 1-3 days pilgrim tours.Mass in the Kidron Valley Jerusalem May 12TH 16-18 :00 PM.Mass on Wednesday May 13th in Manger square Bethlehem at 10 AM.Mass on Thursday May 14th on Mt. Precipitation in Nazareth. 10 AMDay 1. Mass in Jerusalem: May 12thPick up from Herzlliya hotels : 9:00 AM.Pick up from Tel-Aviv hotels : 9:30 AM.Pick up from Jerusalem hotels : 10:30 AM.Overview from on Mt. of Olives for view of the Old and New city. Walk Via the Patre Nostre and the site of the Ascension, . Walk down to Dominus Flevit, where Jesus foresaw the destruction of Jerusalem. Continue to Gardens of Gethsemane, Church of all Nations, Valley of Kidron to see the tombs of Absalom, Jeosphate and Zaccariah from 2nd temple Descend to the Valley of Kidron to participate at Mass.Return to bus and drive to hotels.Recommended comfortable shoes, water and hat.Lunch boxes, sandwiches and fruits available for 12$ (advanced booking required).Sequence and route subject to change due to traffic/route detours.Day 2. Mass in Bethlehem May 13th:Pick up from Herzlliya hotels : 6:15 AM.Pick up from Tel-Aviv hotels : 6:30 AM.Pick up from Jerusalem hotels : 7:30 AM.**Passports mandatoryMass at Manger square at 10:00-12:00 AM-1.Drive direct to Jerusalem-Bethlehem check-point.Bus change at Check :Point .Entry to Bethlehem (Palestinian transportation services)Visit the Church of the Nativity(Subject to PA regulation) .Drive via Ein Kerem and visit Church of Saint John the Baptist. Overlook the church of the visitation where Mary visited Elisabeth. Entry to churches may encounter times limits on this day. Return to hotels in Jerusalem . Therafter Tel Aviv travelers will go via the ancient village Emmaus where Jesus was seen for the first time after the resurrection. Passports mandatory, we recommend comfortable shoes, water and hat. Sequence and route subject to change due to traffic/route detours.Day 3. Mass on Mt. of Precipitation in Nazareth May 14th:Pick up from Herzlliya hotels : 6:00 AM.Pick up from Tel-Aviv hotels : 5:45 AM.Pick up from Jerusalem hotels : 4:45 AM.We depart via the ancient via Maris to the valley of Armageddon, from the book of revolution (chapter 16). Drive.Depart from there by foot to buses driving up to Mt. of Precipitation. Coordinate with guide meeting place and return to group bus. Drive to Cana and in the Galilee there was performed the first miracle (John chapter 2).Drive by to overlook from the foot Mt. Tabor Mathew (chapter 17) identifies this Mt. as the site of transfiguration.Sequence and visits subject to change by Police authorities.Return to hotels. It is recommended on this day to bring snacks, light meals and water.Sequence and route subject to change due to traffic/route detours.Tour conditions and reservation information

Dizengoff Square (which is a circle) or Kirkar Dizengoff, is Tel Aviv’s most iconic public square. At this traffic circle Dizengoff Street, Pinsker Street, and Reines Street meet and encircle a beautiful area where people can hang out and relax under shady trees. There are benches, a cycle path that surrounds the central circle, and an iconic fountain in the middle of the circle.Plan Your VisitOpen Times:24/7Prices:FreeAverage Visit Duration:30 minutes to 1 hour.Popular Times:The Square never sleeps but is most popular during business hours and in the early evening.Special Events:Dizengoff Square hosts concerts, special events, and festivals, often during local holidays.Relevant Tours: Many Tel Aviv tours will take you there, being a very popular spot.Dizengoff Square (Image source: Ovedc CC BY-SA 4.0)This location in the heart of Tel Avivhas witnessed historic events, protests, and celebrations and has continued to be a vibrant hub of social gatherings and entertainment. This is the perfect place to stop for an Israeli breakfast at one of the cafes that surround the Square, or just to sit on a bench and soak up the local atmosphere.Note thatthe internet is full of photos showing the former colorful fountain that stood in Dizengoff Square, and streets going under the center of the Square. Today's fountain is gray, and the design has been changed so that traffic goes around the central area rather than under it.History of Dizengoff SquareThe square is named after Zina Dizengoff, wife of Meir Dizengoff - the first mayor of Tel Aviv. The idea for a grand public square originated in the 1930s when a competition was held to decide the Square’s designer. Genia Averbuch’s design was chosen and construction began. She created a sophisticated design that blended with the surrounding Bauhaus buildings.The original design was replaced in the 1970s by Tsvi Lissar’s design featuring a split-level configuration to alleviate traffic congestion. An elevated central area connected to the adjacent sidewalks by ramps and Dizengoff, Pinsker, and Reines Street ran beneath the elevated center.Dizengoff Square in 1960It was during this period that construction began on Dizengoff Center, just 300 meters from the plaza, and one of Israel’s most iconic shopping malls. In the 80s, Yaacov Agam’s landmark fire and water fountain was erected, at the center of the elevated section.In 2016 a new design brought the center of Dizengoff Square back to ground level and the entire area was renovated with the addition of tiled sidewalks, and new paving. The fountain reappeared in 2019 but without its technological mechanism or artistic colors, and the entire central area of the traffic circle was given an upgrade.Heart of the White CityDizengoff Square is considered the heart of the White City, where there is a high concentration of Bauhaus buildings. The round space is considered to be the only Bauhaus plaza in the world, with its characteristic simple design and curvaceous elegant design elements such as the lawns, and central circular fountain. Surrounding the Square are buildings that are nearly identical in design and with distinct Bauhaus features such as the horizontal slit balconies.Pro Tip: To learn more about this area and this type of design and architecture, visit the Bauhaus Center.What to See and Do at Dizengoff Square?Dizengoff Fountain: The fountain at the center of the traffic circle was once the creation of artist Yaacov Agam and an example of kinetic art. It began operating in 1986 and featured colorful strips around the circular basin as well as moving parts. Over the years it fell into disrepair and was eventually replaced with a deconstructed version of the original, without the color, and without the technical mechanisms that had made it famous. Today the fountain is a contemporary modern gray landmark. It still delights onlookers with its dancing water, and at night it is lit up.Relax: Surrounding the fountain are lawns with colorful chairs under palm trees where people can relax.Dizengoff Square is lit up at night and remains busy and safe until late.Cycle:Tel Aviv bike-sharing is a great way to get around town. There is a cycling path around the Square, and there is also a bike-share so you can rent a bike.Eat: Sidewalk cafes line the streets that look onto the Square making them perfect for people watching.Entertainment: Dizengoff Square is often the venue for street performers, and also festivals during Israeli school holidays.Pro Tip: On Fridays, the Square comes alive with live entertainment, an adjacent farmers’ market, and a dynamic atmosphere.

For most international visitors, Ben Gurion Airport is the first introduction to Israel. Located between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, it serves as the country's primary international gateway and is consistently recognized as one of the most secure airports in the world. Whether you are arriving for a pilgrimage, a family vacation, a business trip, or a private tour of Israel, understanding how the airport works can help make your arrival smoother and more enjoyable. From transportation and terminal information to airport services and practical travel advice, this guide covers everything you need to know before landing at Ben Gurion Airport.Quick Facts About Ben Gurion AirportInformationDetailsAirport NameBen Gurion International AirportAirport CodeTLVDistance from Tel AvivApproximately 20 kmDistance from JerusalemApproximately 55 kmMain International TerminalTerminal 3CurrencyIsraeli Shekel (NIS)LanguagesHebrew, English, ArabicFree Wi-FiAvailable throughout the airportTime Zone Israel Standard Time (UTC+2 / UTC+3 DST) Where Is Ben Gurion Airport Located?Ben Gurion Airport is situated in central Israel, making it an ideal entry point for travelers heading to destinations throughout the country. Tel Aviv can be reached in less than 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions, while Jerusalem is approximately 45 to 60 minutes away depending on the route and time of day.Its strategic location allows visitors to quickly access many of Israel's most popular destinations, including the Dead Sea, Galilee, Haifa, Nazareth, Bethlehem, and the coastal cities along the Mediterranean Sea. For travelers planning an extensive itinerary, Ben Gurion Airport serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the country from north to south.Understanding the Airport TerminalsMost international flights operate through Terminal 3, the airport's modern main terminal. This is where arriving passengers will pass through immigration, collect baggage, and access transportation services.Terminal 1 primarily serves selected low-cost and regional carriers. Depending on your airline and destination, you may depart from Terminal 1 even if you arrive through Terminal 3. A complimentary shuttle service operates between the terminals throughout the day, making transfers simple and convenient for passengers with connecting flights or departures from a different terminal.Arriving at Ben Gurion Airport After landing, passengers proceed through passport control before collecting luggage and passing through customs. The airport is modern, well-organized, and equipped with multilingual signage, making navigation relatively straightforward even for first-time visitors. Upon entering the arrivals hall, travelers will find transportation services, ATM machines, currency exchange counters, mobile phone providers, car rental desks, and meeting points for drivers, tour guides, and private transfer services. The arrival experience is generally smooth, though processing times may vary depending on the number of incoming flights and seasonal travel periods..Passport Control and Security Procedures Ben Gurion Airport has earned an international reputation for its advanced security procedures. While visitors may notice additional screening and questioning compared to some other international airports, these measures are designed to ensure passenger safety. When entering Israel, travelers may be asked routine questions regarding their travel plans, accommodations, and intended destinations. Immigration officers are generally professional and efficient, and most visitors complete the process without difficulty. Rather than receiving a traditional passport stamp, many travelers receive an entry card that should be kept throughout their stay in Israel. This document may be required when checking into hotels or passing through certain checkpoints. When departing Israel, passengers should plan to arrive at the airport at least three hours before an international flight to allow sufficient time for security procedures.Transportation from Ben Gurion Airport One of the advantages of Ben Gurion Airport is the wide range of transportation options available immediately upon arrival.Train ServicesThe airport railway station is located beneath Terminal 3 and provides convenient connections to major cities across Israel. Regular trains operate to Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, Acre, and many other destinations.For travelers heading to Jerusalem, the high-speed rail service offers one of the fastest and most comfortable transportation options available. Visitors should note that train services do not operate during Shabbat, from Friday evening until Saturday evening.Airport TaxisLicensed taxis are available outside the arrivals terminal 24 hours a day. They provide direct transportation to hotels, private residences, and tourist destinations throughout Israel. Taxi fares vary depending on destination, traffic conditions, and time of travel. Travelers are encouraged to use only official airport taxi services.Private Airport TransfersMany visitors prefer the convenience of arranging a private transfer before arrival. A professional driver can meet passengers in the arrivals hall and provide direct transportation to destinations throughout Israel.Private transfers are especially popular among families, small groups, business travelers, and visitors arriving after long international flights. This option eliminates the need to navigate public transportation systems or wait for available taxis. Whether your destination is Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, the Dead Sea, Nazareth, Tiberias, or Haifa, a private airport transfer offers a comfortable and stress-free start to your journey. Check our airport transfersStart Your Private Tour Directly from the AirportFor travelers who want to maximize their time in Israel, it is possible to begin sightseeing immediately after landing.Instead of traveling directly to a hotel, visitors can be met at Ben Gurion Airport by a private guide and driver and begin exploring the country right away. Popular options include private tours of Jerusalem, Jaffa, Caesarea, the Dead Sea, Galilee, and Bethlehem. This is particularly useful for travelers arriving early in the day who may not be able to check into their accommodations immediately. Check our private toursAirport Drop-Off After a Day TourMany visitors don't realize that some tours can also be scheduled on departure day.Rather than spending the final day of a trip waiting at the airport, travelers can enjoy a guided tour before their flight and conclude the experience with a convenient drop-off at Ben Gurion Airport.This option allows visitors to make the most of every hour in Israel and is particularly popular among travelers with evening departures. Depending on timing and availability, destinations such as Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, Caesarea, Nazareth, Galilee, or Tel Aviv can be explored before heading directly to the airport. For many visitors, this becomes one of the most efficient and enjoyable ways to spend their final day in the country. Check our daily toursAirport Facilities and ServicesBen Gurion Airport offers a wide range of facilities designed to make the travel experience more comfortable.Visitors have access to restaurants, cafés, duty-free shopping, banking services, pharmacies, family facilities, and passenger assistance services. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing travelers to stay connected immediately upon arrival.Business travelers will find work-friendly spaces throughout the terminal, while families can take advantage of dedicated child-friendly facilities. The airport's extensive range of services ensures that passengers can comfortably spend several hours at the terminal if necessary.Currency Exchange, ATMs and VAT RefundsCurrency exchange services and ATM machines are available throughout the airport arrivals and departures areas.Although credit cards are widely accepted throughout Israel, many travelers prefer to carry some local currency for smaller purchases and transportation expenses. International visitors who qualify for VAT refunds on purchases made during their stay can also access VAT refund services at the airport before departureSIM Cards and Internet AccessReliable internet access has become essential for modern travelers, and Ben Gurion Airport makes it easy to stay connected. Visitors can purchase local SIM cards, arrange mobile data services, or activate eSIM plans before or after arrival. Free airport Wi-Fi provides immediate connectivity for checking hotel reservations, arranging transportation, or contacting family and friends.VIP Services at Ben Gurion AirportTravelers seeking a premium airport experience may choose to arrange VIP arrival or departure services.These services can assist with fast-track procedures through airport formalities and provide personalized support throughout the arrival or departure process. For visitors looking for maximum convenience, VIP services can significantly reduce waiting times and streamline the airport experience. Business travelers, families with young children, and guests seeking additional comfort often find these services particularly valuable.Helpful Tips for First-Time VisitorsFirst-time visitors to Israel often discover that Ben Gurion Airport is easier to navigate than expected. Preparing transportation arrangements in advance, keeping travel documents readily available, and allowing extra time for security procedures can make the entire experience even smoother.Travelers arriving during major Jewish holidays should be aware that transportation schedules may be affected, particularly during Shabbat. Planning ahead can help avoid unexpected delays. Most importantly, visitors should remember that Israel is a relatively compact country, allowing many of its most famous attractions to be reached within a few hours of arrival.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the airport code for Ben Gurion Airport?The international airport code for Ben Gurion Airport is TLV.How far is Ben Gurion Airport from Tel Aviv?The airport is located approximately 20 kilometers from central Tel Aviv.How do I get from Ben Gurion Airport to Jerusalem?Visitors can travel by train, taxi, private transfer, or organized transportation services.Is free Wi-Fi available at Ben Gurion Airport?Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport terminal.Can I arrange a private transfer from the airport?Yes. Private airport transfers can be arranged in advance and provide direct transportation to destinations across Israel.Can I start a tour directly from Ben Gurion Airport?Absolutely. Many travelers choose to begin a private tour immediately after arrival, maximizing their sightseeing time from the moment they land.Can I take a tour before heading to the airport for my flight? Yes. Selected tours and private touring services can conclude with a convenient drop-off at Ben Gurion Airport, allowing travelers to enjoy their final day in Israel before departure.ConclusionBen Gurion Airport is more than simply a transportation hub. It serves as the gateway to Israel and the starting point for unforgettable experiences throughout the country. With modern facilities, efficient transportation options, advanced security procedures, and convenient access to Israel's most popular destinations, the airport offers visitors a comfortable and welcoming arrival experience. Whether you choose a train, taxi, private transfer, guided tour from the airport, or even a sightseeing experience before your departure flight, planning ahead will help ensure that every moment of your journey in Israel is used to its fullest.