Take a short flight from Ben Gurion Airport Tel Aviv (Terminal 1) to Ramon Airport near Eilat.This Petra and Wadi Rum tour 2-day tour from the Eilat includesexotic Middle Eastern landscapes, the iconic city ofPetra - one of the Seven New Wonders of the World- and an exhilaratingjeep safari through Wadi Rum.You’ll be picked up in Eilat and taken swiftly across the border into the Kingdom of Jordan. Walk through Aqaba's scenic street passages toMamluk Castle- an Ottoman fort overlooking Aqaba Bay's border nexusYou'll have free time to explore the seaside city of Aqaba, and enjoy awesome water activities such as boating+snorkeling, and have fun on a private beach.Next, you'll head out for an exciting jeep tour of Wadi Rum, a unique desert wilderness with amoon-like landscapeand an opportunity to snap some amazing photos. SeveralStar Wars movieswere shot here, and you'll see why.After an authentic, yet pampering night ina real Bedouin camp, You'll head for Petra. This extraordinary city was carved out of the red-hued desert cliffs 2,300 years ago, and its shrines and majestic mausoleums await you - starting with the famousPetra Treasury.Explore the Royal Tombs like Indiana Johns, gaze deep into Nabatean History, and take awesome photos of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

This Petra 2-Day Tour includes exotic middle eastern landscapes, the iconic city ofPetra - one of the 7 New Wonders of the World- which is filled to the brim with fascinating history, unique photo ops, and exciting activities.After ashort flight, you’ll be picked up in Eilat and taken swiftly across the border into the Kingdom of Jordan. Travel to Petra -a whole city carved into the red-hued desert cliffs2,300 years ago. See every jaw drop in front of the marvelousPetra Treasury, thenfeel like Indiana Johnsin the nearby temples and tombs.After a pampering night at a great Petra hotel, you'll head back to the Archeology Park for a day of exploring, hiking, great local food, and much more. This is your opportunity to see the dazzling beauty of Ad Deyr - thePetra Monastery, located at the end of a mountain trail with amazing views.Visit must-see spots like theQasr Al-Bint temple, the temple ofWinged Lions, and thePetra Museumwhich shows just how unique was the ancient Nabatean culture, and take breathtaking pics of the unforgettable site from between 2,000-year-old columns.

This Aqaba, Petra, and Wadi Rum 3-day tour offersstunning Middle Eastern landscape, a touch of thefantastic beachesof Aqaba, a visit tothe famous city of Petra- one of the Seven New Wonders of the World - and an excitingjeep safari in Wadi Rum.Take a short flight to Eilat, then quickly cross the border into the neighboring country of Jordan. Start your adventure with a visit to Mamluk Castle, a fortress towering over the border nexus of Aqaba Bay. Then enjoy free time in the seaside city of Aqaba, where you'll enjoy optional beach activities such as boating+snorkeling, and a private beach.Next, you'll take a thrilling jeep tour of Wadi Rum, a striking desert wilderness with a lunar-looking terrain, and a chance to snap some one-of-a-kind photos.Several Star Wars movies were shot here,and you'll see why.After an authentic and cozy night in a genuine Bedouin camp, You'll head for Petra. This impressive city was carved out of the red-hued desert cliffs 2,300 years ago, and its temples and tombs await you - starting with the world-renownedPetra Treasury.See the mysteriousDjinn Blocksand the uniqueObelisk Tomb, Walk in the footsteps of ancient rulers tothe Royal Tombs, and take exceptional shots of the Nabatean Theater from between the huge columns.After a night in a great hotel next to Petra, you'll have a full day of scouting, hiking, trying local cuisine, and more. This is your opportunity to see the fantasticGreat Templeof Petra and the Petra Monastery - a giant structure of rare splendor- atthe end of a ridge trail with astonishing views.

Your adventure will start in old Jaffa - a treasure trove of colorful alleys and ancient stories. Your guide will take you to the old Jaffa port - a significant historical landmark that shaped Tel Aviv and Israel over the ages. After learning about its heritage, you’ll visit the lovely St. Peter’s church, cross the Wishing Bridge, and take great pics at the beautiful Zodiac Sign Fountain. We’ll also see the famous Jaffa Clock Tower, the Andromeda Rock, and the stunning view from atop the Garden of Pinnacle.Your next area to discover will be Carmel Market, the largest market in Tel Aviv and the city’s living, bleeding heart: amazing food awaits at every stall, and the aroma of spices from all over the Middle East fills the air; This is a true pleasure for every foodie: your guide will take you to try the local culinary - amazing pastries, cheese, Mediterranean platters and sweets you won’t forget. While absorbing the market culture, your guide will tell you how Carmel Market changed over the years, while remaining such a hotspot for great chefs looking for ingredients and inspiration.Our next stop is Nakhlat Binyamin - a bohemian neighborhood built by and for artists over 100 years ago. It still holds a significant impact on Tel Aviv’s creative culture and is filled with fabric stores, galleries - and incredible street art.The first thing you’ll see is the marvelous architecture: the lovely balconies, columns, and Art Deco elements. But the real magic of Nakhlat Binyamin is the graffiti: countless artworks, depicting a renegade culture’s struggles in pursuit of expression and beauty. Your guide will tell you about the artists’ styles, influences, and history - as well as their special social commentary. This fascinating layer of Israeli culture will conclude this great walking tour of Tel Aviv, after endless photo ops and memories. So are you coming or what?

This one-of-a-kind Bethlehem Full Day Tour will take you from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv through the Judean Hills towards Bethlehem - The same route Mary and Joseph took when they journeyed to Bethlehem over two millennia ago. The beautiful, biblical landscape will charm you, as we reach the first stop: The Palestinian Separation Wall with its world-renowned graffiti, done by Bansky himself. You’ll see his cutting-edge creations, which convey ant-war messages in his unique, humorous style.After a quick stop at the Banksy Shop, we’ll continue our voyage and reach the biblical Shepherds' Field - where the angel appeared to the Shepherds (Luke 2:8-14) and announced the birth of the Savior, Christ the Lord, in nearby Bethlehem. This site is marked by the lovely Chapel of the Angels, designed by Antonio Barluzzi - and its beautiful murals will provide you with great photo ops.Next, we’ll head out for Bethlehem itself, and after a short drive, we’ll reach the Milk Grotto; this sacred landmark is where Mary nursed baby Jesus while hiding after the nativity. After learning more about this place’s special traditions and cultural impact, you’ll be taken to Manger Square, a holy nexus for Christians from all over the world.Time permitting, we’ll walk around the area and even visit the Bethlehem Market with its loud, colorful atmosphere - before reaching our main attraction: The unforgettable Church of the Nativity, marking the blessed birthplace of Jesus.The Church complex is kept by separate Catholic, Greek, and Armenian castodies, and while other tours are bounded by local availability, your group will go in and experience this holy site to its fullest: you’ll see the Grotto in the Grotto of the Nativity with its famous star on the marble floor, and sanctuary lamps hanging above; you’ll see the exquisite interior, covered in gold-hued mosaics; And enter the Chapel of the Kings at the northern transept of the church, where the Three Wise Men came to witness the nativity (Matthew 2:1-12).After learning more about the site’s surprising history, you’ll head back to the spacious tour bus, and drive back to the departure point while enjoying more of the area’s amazing views - A perfect ending for a perfect guided Bethlehem tour!

This Private Tour in the Gaza Envelopeis designed to give participants a deeper understanding not just of the event of October 7th but the conflict between Israel and Hamas since 2006. Beginning the day, we will drive south along the coast, past Ashkelon and Ashdod, towards Israel’s border with Gaza and view the separation fence.Arriving at Netiv HaAsara, a moshav attacked by militants that day, we will view the Erez crossing, where up to 20,000 Palestinian workers would pass through each day, en route to work in Israel. From there, we will journey onto Sderot and tour the city, looking at areas particularly and the subsequent street battles between local Israelis and militants.Continuing south, we'll arrive at Nahal Oz, where both the Military Base and the kibbutz’s perimeter wall were breached. After lunch at one of the local kibbutzim, we will travel onto Kibbutz Be’eri, heavily impacted, walk around the remains of burned-out homes and hear stories of those who witnessed these tragic events.Afterward, we will travel on to Rei’m, the site of the Nova Festival massacre, where around 340 young people were slaughtered. The area has now been cleared and we will tour the memorials to the victims, each of whom has been given a name and photograph.Following on, we will visit an ancient synagogue close to Nirim, dating back to 5 BCE and look at its magnificent mosaic floor, then continue onto Ofakim and walk the ‘Path of the Heroes’. We will learn the story of Rachel, one of the town’s heroines, who managed to survive death that day by virtue of her extraordinary resourcefulness.Finally, heading back north, we’ll stop at Moshav Tekuma, to observe what is now a ‘car graveyard’, full of motor vehicles that were set alight that day.

Aqaba is Jordan’s only seaport on the Red Sea, but it is much more than that and definitely worth incorporating a stop here into your tour to Petra. The city is known as the Jewel of the Middle East and is famed for its beautiful beaches, nightlife, and luxury resorts. The historic part of Aqaba has quaint stone buildings and cobbled lanes while the newer sections of the city have luxury resorts and amenities. And let's not forget water sports, museums, and more.Pro Tip: As Aqaba is a special economic zone you can enjoy duty-free shopping!The city of Aqaba, with its giant Jordan flagWhere is Aqaba?Aqaba is on Jordan’s Red Sea coastline, on the northeastern shore, not far from Eilat, the Israeli beach resort city. Pro Tip: Petra, Wadi Rum, and Aqaba make up a golden triangle of tourist sites. If you’re taking a tour to Petra from Israel you can usually include a stop in Aqaba. The Israel-Jordan border crossing is just 5km from Aqaba. Also, if you're traveling to Jordan, make sure you won't do these common mistakes.The Aqaba Fortress (by Tamerlan CC BY-SA 3.0)History of AqabaAqaba has several archeological sites including Tal Al-Magass and Tal Hujayrat where there is evidence of human inhabitants going back to 4000 BC. The first port in Aqaba was probably built by the Edomites in about 1500 BC. And since then it has been a major hub of maritime trade thanks to the port’s location, where Asia meets Africa.Aqaba During the Classic PeriodFrom 735 BC the city experienced prosperity under Assyrian, Babylonian, Persian, and Greek rule. The Greeks called Aqaba one of the most important trading cities in the Arab World and they named the city, Bernice. The Nabataeans were a powerful force to the north in their capital city, Petra. Even when Aqaba was ruled by the Romans (and renamed Aela) the Nabataeans had a significant influence on the city.Early Muslim PeriodThe city fell to Islamic conquerors in 650 AD. It was ruled by the Umayyads (661-750), the Abbasids (750-970), and the Fatimids (970-1116). They named their city Ayla, and Aqaba Fortress was built surrounded by formidable walls and towers. Pro Tip: if the fortress interests you there are artifacts from this period on display in the Aqaba Archaeological Museum.Crusaders in AqabaThe city was conquered yet again, this time by Baldwin I of Jerusalem in 1116. Under him, the Crusader fortress of Helim was built. But by the 12th century, following earthquakes and attacks from Bedouin and Mamluk forces the city began to decline. In 1187 Aqaba was captured by Saladin. He rebuilt the city, and in the 16th century the old fort was rebuilt but the city remained a simple fishing village for the next four hundred years.A 17th century map of the Aqaba areaModern History of AqabaIn 1917 the legendary T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia) together with Arab forces defeated the Ottoman forces at the Battle of Aqaba. In the 1920s the Arab rulers gave Aqaba to the British protectorate of Transjordan. In 1946 Jordan gained independence from the British and Aqaba grew as a modern city and beach resort. In 1989 excavations uncovered the ancient Muslim city of Ayla.The Aqaba south beach (CC BY-SA 4.0 by عباد ديرانية)What to See and Do in AqabaAqaba Mamluk CastleThe Aqaba Mamluk castle was originally constructed by the Crusaders in the 12th century. When Saladin conquered the city the fort was destroyed, and later in the 16th century the structure was rebuilt under the Mamluk dynasty. A Mamluk inscription on the wall is dated 1514-1515. The fort played an important role in the Arab revolt in 1917 when the Ottomans were ousted. Over the years it offered shelter to pilgrims and travelers. Pro Tip: Spot the Hashemite coat of arms inscribed above the main gate.Mamluk Castle, AqabaWater SportsThe Red Sea is one of the best diving sites in the world thanks to the incredible coral reefs. There are about 30 designated dive sites off the Aqaba coast, and most of them are within the Aqaba Marine Park. See shipwrecks, a sunken tank, and the underwater Japanese Gardens. There are numerous businesses along the coast offering snorkeling, diving, and boat excursions as well as water sports such as skiing, and jet skiing.Jet ski near the coastAqaba Marine ParkThe marine park protects precious coral reefs and the marine biosphere. The reef is home to thousands of colorful fish and 127 types of Insta-worthy coral formations. Pro Tip: Invest in a device that can take underwater photos, you won’t regret it! The park operates about 20 dive sites including the Japanese Garden and Taiyong Wreck. ProTip: The glass-bottomed boat rides are great, and you'll see amazing aquatic animals without getting wet.Red Sea bay marine lifeAqaba AquariumThe aquarium is within the Marine Science Station Complex. Water is pumped directly from the Red Sea into the aquarium tanks where you can see a wide variety of local fish and marine life.Aqaba Bird ObservatoryThousands of migrating birds stop in the Gulf of Aqaba each year. Visit the Aqaba Bird Observatory where there are man-made wetlands, to get up close to the feathered friends, and see some of 390 bird species. The observatory is located in Al-Salam Forest, near the Araba border crossing into Israel.An Osprey with its prey, both surprised to see you!Aqaba GolfAqaba is a popular golfing destination thanks to the unique 18-hole championship course - Ayla Golf Club and the Ayla Golf Academy, a nine-hole flood-lit course.4th Century Church, AqabaSee the archaeological remains of a 4th-century Roman church. It is believed to be one of the world’s oldest purpose-built churches.The ancient church of AqabaMasjid Al Hussein Bin Ali MosqueThis beautiful white mosque stands between the souq and the beach. It is named after the initiator of the Arab Revolt, Sharif and Emir of Mecca (1908 to 1917). It has the largest dome of all Jordan’s mosques as well as stunning glass windows, and manicured gardens. Note that the mosque is closed to tourists during prayer time.Hussein Bin Ali MosqueSea and FunAqaba has exquisite white sand beaches which are framed by a promenade (Aqaba Corniche) where you’ll find cafes, restaurants, and hubbly bubbly lounges. ProTip: visit Al-Hafayer Beach (Palm Beach) which runs parallel to the corniche, where there are vegetables and fruit orchards cultivated by locals. If you’d like a quieter beach head to Berenice Beach Club.Enjoy the beaches of AqabaAqaba Heritage MuseumIf you want to see a traditional home visit this museum where you can see an intact model of a mud house, with a pine leaf roof, and gravel floor. The house is furnished with authentic traditional furniture and household articles. Pro Tip: This museum has free admission.Ayla Archaeological RemainsThe ancient Muslim city Alya was built in 650 AD and surrounded by fortified walls. You can explore the remains of the city and walk within the 2.5-meter-thick walls and through ancient stone gateways.Aqaba Archaeological MuseumThe museum is housed in the former home of Sharif Hussein bin Ali. It holds a collection of artifacts dating back 6,000 years.The Aqaba Museum(by Ana al'ain CC BY-SA 3.0)Aqaba SouqStroll along the picturesque lanes and browse through the market stalls. You’ll find fresh produce, spices piled high, and handicrafts.A traditional SouqPlan Your VisitOpen Times: Most Aqaba stores are open from 08:00 to 22:00 Sunday to Thursday.Prices: join a Petra tour from Israel that includes the entrance fee to Petra as well as a possible stop in Aqaba. ProTip: The Jordan Pass includes discounts to attractions in Aqaba.Average Visit Duration: You could spend a week in Aqaba enjoying all the attractions or make a short stop for a couple of hours.Popular Times: Aqaba is a year-round destination. The best time to visit Aqaba is in the shoulder seasons - spring and fall when it is hot but not scorching. Summer is perfect if you like constant beach weather, and winter is cool but not cold. Special Events: The Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival is in February and showcases traditional Bedouin arts and crafts.Relevant Tours: Try a two-day Petra tour from Israel that includes a stop in Aqaba. There are great 2-day Petra tours from Eilatand some relevant Tel Aviv to Petra 2-day toursthat also go through Aqaba.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:Petra is open in summer from 06:00-18:00 and in winter from 06:00-16:00.Prices: Entrance to thePetra Archaeological Parkis 90JD, with a discount for Jordan Pass holders. Average Visit Duration:The average time spent at the Tomb of Renaissance is 30 min. Take into account the time it takes to walk to the tomb.Popular Times: Petra group tours usually don’t go as far as the Renaissance Tomb so if you are traveling independently or with a private guide you can choose when to go there. You won’t find crowds at the Renaissance Tomb at any time during the day. Special Events: The tomb itself has no special events but the Petra Archaeological Park holds an evening show called Petra by Night, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 20:30.Relevant Tours: Join a guided Petra tour from Israeland opt for a 2-day visit: This way you'll have time to explore independently visit the Renaissance Tomb.The Renaissance Tomb in Petra was not built in the Renaissance! Like most of the structures in the ancient Nabataean city, it was carved out of the red sandstone cliffs in the late 1st century or early 2nd century AD. It gets its name from the magnificent facade that features intricate carved decoration.Where is the Renaissance Tomb?You won’t find the Renaissance Tomb on a regular walk through Petra. It is located in Wadi al-Farasa and is accessed from across from the Petra Royal Tombs.Pro Tip: You won’t see the Renaissance Tomb on a 1-day Petra group tour, but if you are on a private Petra tour you can ask your guide to take you there.TheRenaissance Tomb in PetraWadi al-Farasa has several interesting tombs but it is less crowded than the main part of Petra and requires a long walk.Pro Tip: This is a very enjoyable part of Petra with other interesting monuments including the Garden Temple, and the Lion Fountain.What to See at the Renaissance Tomb, PetraRenaissance Tomb FacadeThe tomb facade measures 8 meters wide and 13 meters high. At the top of the facade is a triangular pediment decorated with three carved funeral urns. The pediment rests on an entablature (a horizontal band with decorative carvings) supported by two pilasters (columns that are carved onto the facade rather than being free-standing). The pilasters are topped with typical-style capitals. The tomb’s name comes from the archivolt (ornamental molding that follows the curve on the underside of an arch) above the entrance. Inside the tomb (Image source: Jorge Láscar CC BY 2.0)The archivolt is topped by an urn and is reminiscent of the Italian Renaissance style of architecture.Pro Tip: Spot the remains of a carved water basin on either side of the facade. This would have been part of the Nabataean's ingenious water system.Renaissance Tomb InteriorThe interior of this tomb measures 7 meters by 8 meters. It was excavated in 2003 and contains 14 pit graves. Unfortunately, all the graves (loculi) were looted hundreds of years ago.Pro Tip: Look out for the two tombs with unusual Nabataean inscriptions.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times: See the exterior of the clock tower 24/7.Pro Tip: The Tourist Information Center inside the clock tower is open Fridays and Saturdays, 09:30-16:00.Prices:Free to see from the outside.Average Visit Duration: Spend about half an hour seeing the exterior of the tower and taking a few selfies.Pro Tip: If you’re at the tower don’t miss the best bakery in the city, across the road from the tower is the legendary Abulafia Bakery.Popular Times: The tower is great night and day. In the night it is lit up beautifully.Special Events: Christmas in Israelis celebrated around the tower - a huge time a tall Christmas tree is erected in the traffic circle opposite the tower. And during other Christian, Jewish, and Muslim holidays, you’ll find decorations around Jaffa’s clock tower.Relevant Tours:Join a tour of Tel Aviv or take a Jaffa walking tour to see the tower and learn about its history.Israel’s most famous clock tower stands at the entrance to Jaffa, in Clock Square, at 14 Yefet Street. You can’t miss it as you enter this charming ancient port city. It looks like it belongs in Europe, but was built by the Turkish Ottomans. The Jaffa clock tower is the most popular meeting point in the city. Just tell your friends or tour guide to meet you at the clock tower and they will know exactly where you’ll be.The Jaffa Clock TowerPro Tip:On the north face of the clock tower is a small door where you can enter the Jaffa Clock Tower Information Center. There is another visitors' center in Kedumim Square where you can also get information aboutJaffa.History of Jaffa Clock TowerThe first cornerstone for the clock tower was laid on September 1, 1900. In 1901 construction began on the clock tower in Jaffa and in 1903 it was completed. At the time it stood close to the Jaffa police station, detention center, Ottoman government offices, or Soraya. It was one of six clock towers built in what was then called Palestine, and ruled by the Ottomans. It was built to celebrate Sultan Abdul Hamid II's 25 years of rule in the Ottoman Empire. In total, the Turkish Ottomans constructed 100 clock towers throughout their empire to mark the silver anniversary of the Sultan’s reign.Pro Tip: If you want to see the other clock towers you’ll find them at Acre above the Khan El-Umdan; Haifa in front of the El-Jarina Mosque; Safed, built above the Soraya Ottoman government complex, and in Nablus. The final clock tower was in Jerusalem but was demolished by the British in 1922.The Clock Tower in 1929Today Jafa and Tel Aviv are a joint municipality but in 1901 Jaffa was a separate city and the Jewish, Christian, and Arab residents paid for its construction. It became extremely important in the 19th century as a focal point of the city where events and markets were held. Official buildings were built around it and a central parking area for horses and carriages was set up on present-day Beit Eshel Street. From here theTel Aviv public transport departed taking people across the country. The clock tower has undergone several facelifts over the years, including those in 1965, 1966, and 2001.Pro Tip: This is a great place to arrange to meet someone as you can’t miss it. It is also a popular starting point for tours.What to See at Jaffa Clock TowerThe Jaffa Clock TowerFaçadeThe tower was built with limestone; it has four sides, and three floors (ground floor and two upper floors). It resembles a typical European church bell tower and has arched windows on the two upper levels and a similarly shaped doorway on the ground level. In the window openings is stained glass depicting scenes from Jaffa’s history. The stained glass was designed by artist Arie Koren. At the top of the tower is a copper cover and hidden inside is a bell. The base of the tower measures 3.8 meters on each side, and the tower stands 27.8 meters tall from the ground to the top of the antenna.The Jaffa ClockThe clock tower served an important purpose as most people didn’t have watches and needed a way to tell the time. Legend has it that a local businessman, Yossef Moyal, suggested the tower's construction because he was sick of people coming into his store to ask for the time. Nathaniel Markovich, a watchmaker with a store on Iskander Awad Street, was put in charge of the clock. And when the Turkish expelled the Jews during World War One, Markovich was given special permission to stay, so that he could continue operating the clock. The clocks that originally adorned the tower were made by a local Jewish watchmaker, Moritz Schoenberg.The Clock and the viewAt the time of construction, the tower had four clocks, one on each side of the tower. Two clocks showed the time in Europe and two showed the time in Israel. During the 1966 renovation, the ancient clocks were removed, and two new clocks were installed on the north and south sides of the tower. Another feature of the façade is a plaque commemorating the fallen soldiers from Israel’s War of Independence in 1948.The Sultan’s SealNotice the marble seal of the Ottoman Sultan that hangs about 12 meters above the sidewalk. It has the Sultan’s seal in relief and was featured on all the clock towers built in that year to honor the Ottoman ruler. Not long ago, the seal was restored. Before the restoration, it was virtually impossible to see the relief details as it was covered with smog and dirt. It got cleaned up, and it was also firmly attached to the tower as it had been dangerously close to falling off. At one time the tower had the Sultan’s seal on all four sides, but three haven’t survived and have been replaced with glass replicas. Pro Tip: You can only see the original marble seal on the southern side.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:Services are held Monday to Friday at 07:00 (English), Saturday at 19:50 (Spanish) and 18:30 (Hebrew), and on Sundays at 09:00 (English), 18:00 (Polish), and 19:15 (Hebrew). The schedule can change so you should call ahead. Visitors are welcome Monday - Friday 8:00 - 11:45 and 15:00 - 17:00; Saturday 9:00 - 11:45 and 15:00 - 18:30 plus Sunday 9:00 - 11:45 and 15:00 - 19:00. The church is closed on Yom Kippur.Prices:Entrance is free but donations are appreciated.Average Visit Duration:Visitors spend about half an hour at the church.Popular Times:If you are Christian the best time to visit is during one of the religious services. Otherwise, the most popular times are during the Christian holidays.Special Events:Special services are held at Easter and Christmas.Tours of St. Peter’s Church: Several great Tel Aviv Tourswill get you pretty close, but the best is this Jaffa walking tourwhich tells the whole story of old Jaffa, including that of the famous church. Note thatIf you visit independently, there is no tour provided by the church.In the ancient port city of Jaffa, which is now a joint municipality with adjacent Tel Aviv, stands the Church of Saint Peter and monastery. It was built at the highest point of Jaffa overlooking the old port. Jaffa is one ofthe oldest port cities in the world, with a rich and colorful history. The church played a significant role in Jaffa’s history and welcomed pilgrims for hundreds of years.Originally a Byzantine church stood here, but it burned down and many years later a Crusader citadel was built on the church's remains. When the citadel was destroyed, it was replaced by a church in 1654, and the Ottoman rulers allowed Franciscans to settle here and operate a hostel for visiting pilgrims.St. Peter's Church in JaffaLater the church was restored with the help of funding from French King Louis IX. In the 18th century, it was destroyed and rebuilt twice. The current structure was built in 1894 and renovated in 1903. Since then it has been destroyed and rebuilt twice, The church we see today dates back to 1894, although it was given a facelift in 1903. St. Peter’s Church was the primary Catholic church in Jaffa until St. Anthony’s Church was built in 1932. Today the church is mainly used by foreign workers living in the city. Pro Tip: A room at the church once hosted Napoleon when he conquered Jaffa in 1799.St. Peter’s Church in Jaffa: The Biblical ConnectionPeter was one of the 12 apostles and is considered the first pope. He is known to have made Christianity accessible to all and to a large extent for spreading it throughout the world. The church was built in Jaffa to commemorate several deeds performed by St. Peter the Apostle in Jaffa.St. Peter's Church' fasssadeThe Bible tells us that Saint Peter stayed at the House of Simon the Tanner in Joppa (Jaffa), and he had a vision of a large sheet held at its four corners and lowered from heaven. In the sheet were kosher and non-kosher animals, reptiles, and birds. He heard a voice saying “Get up Peter, kill and eat.” Peter protested saying he would not eat non-kosher animals, but a second, and third time the vision appeared, and the voice said “What God made clean, you must not call profane”. (Acts 11:1-8) This vision has been interpreted as meaning that the gospel should be spread to Jews and Gentiles alike and that kosher rules should no longer apply.According to Acts of the Apostles, it was also in Jaffa that Saint Peter raised a faithful disciple, Tabitha from the dead. Jaffa has another biblical connection, it was from here that Jonah set sail for TarshishWho Was Saint Peter?Saint Peter was a Jewish fisherman from the city of Tiberias on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. His original name was Shimon bar Yona. He became the most senior of the 12 apostles and is considered the first pope. The Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican is named after him.Pro Tip: Spot the large rock at the top of the church facade that supports a bronze cross. The rock was brought from Caesarea-Philippi (today’s Bania’s in Galilee). It was in the Roman city of Caesarea-Philippi that Jesus gave Peter his name, “Cephas” which means “Petros” or Peter in Greek (John 1:42). The rock on the St. Peter’s Church facade symbolizes Peter’s solid faith in Jesus.What to See and Do at St. Peter’s Church, JaffaChurch InteriorThe large church interior was designed in the Baroque style, with a long nave, vaulted ceiling, and thick columns. Oil paintings on the walls depict the Stations of the Cross and St. George fighting the dragon. Above the altar is a painting of Peter’s vision. The pulpit is beautifully carved to resemble a tree. Pro Tip: If you arrive and the door is locked, ring the bell on the right side of the door, and someone will come and open up for you.Church ExteriorThe church facade stands out from other structures in Jaffa with its distinct resemblance to Spanish churches in Latin America. The Spanish sponsored the construction we see today and so the architecture shows a little Spanish flare. Pro Tip: Notice that the church faces west towards the sea, unlike other churches that traditionally face east. This is linked to Peter’s vision that appeared from the sea. In the monastery courtyard is a statue of Louis IX of France, who was sanctified in the Christian tradition for his part in the Crusades.St. Peter's Church in Jaffa is one of the city's favorite spots among visitorsPro Tip:Next to the sacristy are the remains of two rooms from the original Crusader citadel where Napoleon spent the night, as well as the remains of the citadel tower. Also, in the basement of the Citadel Tower is a round stone chapel.Stained Glass Windows:There are four panels of stained glass in the church; they were designed and created by Franz Xaver Zettler in Munich. Each of the panels depicts scenes from Saint Peter’s life - the washing of Jesus’ feet at the Last Supper; the transfiguration of Jesus; the giving of the keys, and the miraculous catching of fish. Other windows in the church show Tabitha, the woman Peter brought back to life in Jaffa; Francis of Assisi, and the immaculate conception. Other stained glass windows depict Spanish saints, as the Spanish Empire funded the latest version of the church.Bell Tower of St. Peter’s Church:The church bell tower overlooks the old port of Jaffa and the Mediterranean Sea. For many years the tower was a beacon for ships coming into port, and the first thing pilgrims would see as they approached the Holy Land.Pro Tip: If you don't want to miss any of this place's splendor, you can always take a private tour in Tel Avivand see more of Jaffa and its surroundings.

Plan Your VisitLocation:Kikar Kdumim 6, Tel Aviv-YafoOpen Times: 24/7Prices: FreeAverage Visit Duration: 30 minutes.Popular Times:Great during the day and also at night when it is lit up. Try to avoid the midday sun.Special Events:In theIsraelisummer there are regular activities and festivals in Kdumim Square alongside the fountain such as the Jaffa Nights festival.Relevant Tours:A popular spot among Tel Aviv tours, any guided jaunt of Jaffa will take you past this famous fountain.In the heart of Old Jaffa, is Kdumim Square, where most tourists begin their exploration of this fascinating ancient port city located at the southern end of Tel Aviv. In Kdumim Square you can’t miss the beautiful Zodiac Fountain, an unusual water feature adorned with fun stone Israeli sculptures of the twelve zodiac signs.What is the Fountain of Zodiac Signs?The fountain was created in 2011 by local sculptors Ilan Gelber and Varda Ghivoly, with designs of the zodiac characters by Navot Gil. The fountain has twelve zodiac characters carved out of chalkstone. TheZodiac Signs Fountain in JaffaThey are rather cartoon-like chubby representations of the zodiac characters such as the Aries ram (which looks more like a cute sheep), the Leo lion, and the two fish for Pisces. The semi-circular pool of the fountain has a low rim so you can sit on it for a cute photo with the zodiac characters in the background. The fountain integrates lighting to bring the characters to life at night.Pro Tip: If you enjoyed seeing the fountain sculptures by local Jaffa artists then you’ll love the many unique local art galleries tucked away in Jaffa’s Zodiac Lane.Why Have a Zodiac Fountain in Jaffa?During archaeological excavations at the site, architectural elements from the Ottoman era were uncovered including walls, floors, a tiled courtyard, aqueducts, and a water reservoir. This seemed to confirm a local legend.According to the legend, a magical wishing well once stood here, and anyone who threw in a coin and made a wish would have their wish granted. And so zodiac signs which are associated with “luck” became the theme, and water represents the well.Side view of the fountainThe zodiac theme permeates Jaffa. Notice the names of the lanes throughout Old Jaffa and leading down to the port, they are named after the zodiac signs. The nearby Wishing Bridge connects Jaffa Hill to Kdumim Square and is also decorated with zodiac signs.What is Near the Zodiac Fountain?You can reach all of Jaffa’s attractions from the fountain on foot. The closest ones include the Old Jaffa Visitors Center (also known as Jaffa Tales because of the multi-media museumcovering the history of Jaffa accessed via the Visitors Center). Towering over Kdumim Square is Saint Peter’s Church. Saint Peter’s ChurchFrom the fountain, you can access the zodiac lanes that twist and turn down the hill to the Old Jaffa Port. The fountain area is also where you’ll find some of the top restaurants in Jaffa, many with brilliant sea views.Pro Tip: Did you know that Napoleon conquered Jaffa in 1799? Take a selfie with the statue of Napoleon just before you reach the fountain.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:24/7Prices:Free.Average Visit Duration: 10 minutes; people usually stand around it and take Instagram shots.Popular Times:See the Suspended Orange during the daytime, anytime.Relevant Tours: Take a good Jaffa walking tour and see the tree. You can also take a private Tel Aviv tour and ask to visit this popular spot.Pro Tip: If you’re wondering how the orange tree survives, you can look for the well-hidden drip irrigation system.It’s great to discover works of public art on your travels and the Suspended Orange in Jaffa is one of the most unusual ones you’ll ever see. Hidden among the lanes of Jaffa's old cityis a large egg-shaped clay pot suspended by metal cables attached to the neighboring houses, so that it is about a meter off the ground, and growing out of the earthenware pot is an orange tree. The Suspended Orange TreeThis installation piece was created in 1993 by Israeli artist Ran Morin and has become a symbol of the city. The tree is real and bears real oranges!Pro Tip:If you’re wondering how the orange tree survives, you can look for the well-hidden drip irrigation system.What is the Meaning of the Suspended Orange Tree?The most obvious explanation of the installation is that it represents the oranges of Jaffa, but there are several other possible meanings associated with the floating tree.Local legend holds that a resident planted an orange tree on municipal land but as this was forbidden by law, an official came to cut down the tree. The resident then hung the tree, suspended above the ground so that it was not touching municipal land and the officials could do nothing about it.The stone egg represents the roots of our ancestors, or the shell that we grew from. It is suspended to show that we eventually are torn away from our roots, and drift further away from nature. The tree represents the blossoming and growing beauty of people.It also symbolizes the Jewish people (the tree), uprooted from their land (suspended off the ground) and scattered throughout the world, but never disconnecting from Israel, and continuing to bear fruit.Another theory is that it represents the detachment between people and nature in today’s modern world.Who Is Ran Morin?The artist who created the Suspended Orange Tree is Ran Morin, an Israeli artist known for incorporating full-size trees into his work. On the outskirts of Jerusalem, near Ramat Rachel Kibbutz is Morin’s Olive Columns, an installation that consists of three tall columns topped by three olive trees.The hanging tree in Jaffa (Image source: vivali CC BY 3.0)Morin has said about the Floating Orange Tree that it shows a rooted and uprooted state while going on living, much as we do, growing into an unclear future.Jaffa OrangesAfter the establishment of Israel in 1948 the new country’s main income was from citrus fruit shipped from Jaffa Port. At that time Jaffa was surrounded by fields of orange groves, and the citrus smell permeated the air. The local Shamouti oranges were known for being juicy, delicious, and seedless.But their greatest quality for traders was that they remained fresh and ripe without rotting for a long time. This made them perfect for exporting to distant countries. Around the world, people ate oranges bearing the “Jaffa” label.Pro Tip:Tel Avivis nicknamed "The Big Orange". You can follow the Orange Trail walking routes through the city.Israel's Oranges are the best!In the 1970s, tragedy struck. As part of the ongoing tension between the Arabs and Jews following the Yom Kippur War, Arabs poisoned the orange groves with mercury. As a result, there were several deaths in Europe, and the Jaffa oranges lost their sterling reputation. Israel could no longer rely on agriculture as its main source of income and they started looking into other fields, eventually leading to the birth of the Start-Up Nation.There are no more orange groves surrounding Jaffa, instead, there is the concrete jungle of Tel Aviv. But the memory of Jaffa and the famous oranges remains.How to Find the Suspended Orange Tree in JaffaThe Suspended Orange Tree can be found at 2 HaZorfim Street. From the main street of Jaffa, Yefet Street, turn down Louis Pasteur Street, then turn right onto Mazal Teomim Street, and right onto HaZorfim Street. Just a few minutes along the street (which is more like a narrow lane) and you will reach a very small courtyard where the Suspended Orange hangs. It is a public area, no need to pay, or ask permission to see it.People gathering around the tree (Image source: deror_avi CC BY-SA 2.0)You may get lost in the labyrinth of lanes in Jaffa’s Old City, but that’s all the fun! If you’re coming from Kedumim Square, take Mazal Dli Street to Mazal Gdi Street, and follow the twists and turns of this street until you reach HaZorfim Street. This is perhaps the most popular way of reaching the Suspended Orange as it allows you to explore the lanes as you go along. It is a well-trodden route that takes you past art galleries and specialty stores. If you’re wondering about the strange names of these lanes, they are all named after the zodiac signs. Pro Tip: This is Jaffa’s Artist’s Quarter and among the lanes surrounding the floating orange tree you’ll find many unusual art galleries.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:24/7Prices:Free.Average Visit Duration:10-30 minutes.Popular Times:During daylight hours.Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon so you can enjoy the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea.Attention, Instagrammers! This is one of the best chances for great pics.Relevant Tours:A walking tour of Jaffa usually includes the Ramses II Gate Garden. You can also take a private Tel Aviv tour and ask to reach this lovely spot.A series of connecting parks slope down from Jaffa’s Old City towards the beginning of the beachfront promenade that leads to Tel Aviv. The first of these tranquil gardens, closest toJaffa is the Ramses II Gate Garden (Sha’ar Ra’amses Garden or Ramesses Garden). Ramses Gate in JaffaThe main attraction of the small park is the Ramses II Gate, a triumphal arch. The gate is not the original which stood here over 3,300 years ago, but it does give you an idea of what it would have looked like and where it would have been.Pro Tip:If you want to see the original visit the Jaffa Museum. It is also a reminder that the Egyptians were in Jaffa. The gate has carved hieroglyphics praising Ramses II, Pharaoh of Egypt who lived from 1304 BC to 1214 BC. The gate stands in front of excavated ruins with remnants from several historical periods.History of Ramses II Gate GardenThe area of south-eastern Jaffa which is now a pleasant park was destroyed by the British during the British Mandate of Palestine (1917-1946), to control an Arab revolt. The area deteriorated to become a slum area of the city. In the 1960s, archaeological excavation in the area revealed the remains of an Egyptian gateway, that turned out to be from the 12th century BC.Further exploration uncovered stones covered in clay and an altar featuring a sphynx-like lion image from the same period.Pro Tip:The site is open to the public to explore when they visit the park.The Egyptians in JaffaThe legend of how the Egyptians conquered Jaffa is a bit like the Greek story of the Trojan Horse. In the 15th century BC, Pharaoh Thutmose III brought gift bakers to the people of Jaffa as a sign of peace, but hidden in the baskets were Egyptian soldiers. Once inside Jaffa’s city walls, the soldiers jumped out and opened the city gates to let in the waiting Egyptian troops. The people of Jaffa were taken by surprise and were caught off guard.The gate itself (Image source: Sylvia Steinberg) The Egyptians remained in Jaffa for 350 years, and it was an administrative center and military base. The triumphal arch that stands in the park today was at the entrance to an Egyptian fortress overlooking the port. The excavations include part of one of the fortress walls. There are also remains of the fortress ramparts and many small items such as bowls, and pottery shards. The Egyptians were just one of a long list of invaders who ruled Jaffa including the Canaanites, Greeks, Romans, Crusaders, Ottomans, and British. The result is a treasure trove of archaeological gems. Pro Tip: The Jewish exodus from Egypt may have taken place during Ramses II’s rule.Visiting Ramses II Gate GardenYou can reach Ramses II Gate Garden from several points in Jaffa, its location on the seam between Jaffa and the Tel Aviv promenade makes it a perfect place to start or finish a tour of Jaffa.Pro Tip: Nearby is the Wishing Bridge that connects Peak Park with Kedumim Square in the heart of Old Jaffa - and many more of the best attractions in Jaffa.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:24/7Prices: Free.Average Visit Duration:Between half an hour to half a day.Popular Times:Visit the park in the late afternoon and watch the sunset over the Mediterranean.Special Events: The June Tel Aviv Pride Parade ends at Charles Clore Park with a massive party. In May the park hosts Eat Tel Aviv, a foodie festival, and throughout the year there are several pop-up events.Relevant Tours:You won’t find a tour specifically covering this park, but it could be included in private Tel Aviv tours.Tel Aviv has many beautiful parks, but Charles Clore Park is special. It stretches along the southern end of Tel Aviv’s beachfront promenade to Jaffa, Tel Aviv’s joint municipality. The park’s charm comes from its location, between modern Tel Aviv, and ancientJaffa, facingthe Mediterranean Sea. Alma Beach and Charles Clore ParkThis means that you can watch the sunset over the sea from Charles Clore Park. The park is one ofthe best parks in Tel Aviv: It's about 1.5km long, 50-100 meters wide, and covers about 30 acres of reclaimed land, dried up from the sea. Enjoy the green lawns, the sea views,and the tranquil atmosphere.History of Charles Clore ParkAround the time of Israel’s establishment in 1948, the land where the park stands today was the Al-Manshiyya neighborhood. The residents were relocated, and by the 1960s all that remained was a slum. Discussions took place about how to clean the place up, and it was eventually decided in 1963 to demolish the crumbling buildings. However the contractors responsible for the demolition failed to remove all of the rubble and debris and instead, the remains of the buildings were dumped in the sea.It polluted the beach and the sea to the point where something had to be done. It turned out that it was cheaper to plant grass over the debris and dirt than to clean up the beach. And so a park was established on top of the demolition debris and to expand the park to cover the area where the sea had been dried up by the dirt and remaining buildingmaterials.The landscape architect, A. Hillel was brought in to design the park which had limitations. First, it was a long strip of land, not like the regular wide areas used for urban parks. Second, the earth beneath the grass was mainly building debris and dirt soil that was not suitable for growing trees, only low shrubs. He also had to take into consideration the sea winds and the salt content of the air and soil which further limited the type of plants that could be used.The entrance to the Park (Image source: Dr. Avishai Teicher CC BY 2.5)He planned to plant only bushes and low shrubs and to use palm and Tamarix trees on the eastern side of the park where the soil beneath the surface was not a dry sea area. On the western side, the designer placed a wall to prevent the park’s infrastructure from being washed away by the sea. Along the length of the wall is a wide promenade directly on the shoreline which has become popular with fishermen.In 1971, British businessman and philanthropist Charles Clore made a donation that brought the vision of the park to fruition in time for the city’s centennial celebrations in 2009. The Clore Foundation continues to care for the park and make regular improvements like adding barbeque areas, a playground, and outside exercise facilities. The park was opened to the public in 1974.What to Expect from Charles Clore ParkThis park and beach are used mainly by locals, and a few curious tourists. There is often an activity or special event in the park as well as families having a barbeque, couples sitting on a blanket and having aromantic weekend in Tel Aviv, elderly residents taking their daily walk, joggers, and fishermen. The lovely water fountains around the park (Image source:www.fountain.co.il CC BY 2.5)The focus of the park is the sea, and apart from any particular attraction in the park, it is popular simply as a great place to relax and enjoy the view. Charles Clore Beach (Alma Beach) is best united to those who want to get away from the larger, more crowded beaches along Tel Aviv’s beachfront promenade. Pro Tip: You can walk the entire length of the Tel Aviv promenade from Tel Aviv Port in the north down past the Tel Aviv beaches to Charles Clore Park and beach, then cross the Charles Core Bridge into Jaffa.What to See at Charles Clore Park, Tel AvivBeachfront PromenadeThe best way to see Charles Clore Park is to follow the beachfront promenade that connects Tel Aviv to Jaffa and takes you straight past the park.Pro Tip: There is a 24/7 paid parking lot adjacent to the northern part of the park. The parking lot has charging stations for electric cars.Playground andOutdoor Fitness FacilitiesThere is a state-of-the-art playground with a rope pyramid for climbing, and water fountains to keep you cool. Like many parks around Israel these days you can find several outdoor gym machines. Workout station in the Park (Image source: Avi1111 dr avishai teicher)There Is also a yoga platform where you can do your own thing, or join one of the regular classes. There are bike-share stations along the promenade so you can rent a bike for a few dollars and explore the city.Public Art and Sculpture GardenPositioned throughout the park are works of art by Israeli artists including a sculpture by Ilana Goor, entitled Woman Against the Wind.Beit Gidi Museum (Etzel House)This unique museumfocuses on the history of the Zionist paramilitary organization Irgun, also known as Etzel. The museum is housed in one of only two surviving structures from the Manshiyah neighborhood. The other structure that survived is the Hassan Bek Mosque. The Etzel Museum in the parkThe museum building has been transformed by glass panels that cover the facade, and join seamlessly with the remains of the ancient stone building.Pro Tip: If you’re interested in the history of Etzel there is a second Etzel Museum on King George Street.Alma BeachThe beach adjacent to Charles Clore Park is also known as Alma Beach. It is a small Blue Flag Beach, and there are lockers for leaving your belongings while you swim.You can also bring your dog to the central part of this beach, and participate in non-motorized water sports to the south. There are lifeguard services daily from 07:00 to 18:00 and changing rooms at the beach.Pro Tip: One of the best restaurants in Tel Aviv, Mantra Ray is located on Alma Beach and offers an excellent Mediterranean menu and a laid-back atmosphere.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:24/7Prices:Free.Average Visit Duration:10-30 minutes.Popular Times:During daylight hours.Pro Tip: Try to be here when the sun is setting over the sea for a brilliant photo op.Special Events:There are often special events in the adjacent parks: live shows, street performers, farmers' markets, and more.Tours:A quality Jaffa walking tour will include the Wishing Bridge. You can also take other kinds of Tel Aviv tours and see it, and many other nearby Jaffa attractions.On a walk through the Old City of Jaffa, as you reach the parks that slope down towards Tel Aviv, there is a wooden pedestrian bridge, the Wishing Bridge. Along the bridge’s wooden railing, at regular intervals are thick circles of bronze that feature the twelve astrological signs in relief. The bridge’s bronze adornments were created by local sculptors Freddy Fabian and Esther Shlomo. Welcome to the Wishing Bridge!At the entrance to the bridge is a mosaic of the zodiac signs set into the stone path created by Ilan Gelber, Navot Gil, and Varda Givoli, all residents ofJaffa. The bridge underwent renovations in 2016 and now has handrails and special lighting designed by Micha Margalit. Although the bridge has been updated and renovated over the years, it is still steeped in tradition.Pro Tip:The Wishing Bridge is one of the best places to take a photo ofSt. Peter's Churchand of Tel Aviv'sstunning coastline.Make A Wish on the Wishing BridgeThere is a local legend or myth that holds that if you grasp your zodiac sign on the bridge, look out to the sea, and make a wish it will be granted. Making a Wish on the Wishing BridgeAstrology is a theme throughout Jaffa. Spot the zodiac fountain in the main square, and the lanes each named after a zodiac sign.Where is the Wishing Bridge in Jaffa?The bridge connects Kedumim Square in the Old City of Jaffa with HaPisga Garden at the northern end of the Old City.History of the Wishing Bridge in JaffaThe bridge was originally built in the 1960s, to make the area more attractive and add points of interest. It also served a practical purpose connecting the Old City to the sloping parkland that continues down to the seafront promenade and Tel Aviv. In 2011 the bridge was closed because of structural issues. It had begun to erode and was unstable due to constant use.Crossing the Wishing Bridge, on the way to St. Peter's Church In 2016 renovations began on the bridge and its weathered wooden features were dismantled and replaced. The framework of brass and stainless steel replaced the original steel cable reinforcements, and measures were taken to make it stronger so it could withstand heavy traffic and the high sea winds. The original artists of the zodiac signs were commissioned to create new pieces.All About the Wishing BridgeLength: 26 metersSpan: 3 metersDate of original construction: 1960sDate of Renovation Completion: August 2016Structure: Timber, brass, laminated wood, stainless steel

Plan Your VisitLocation: 182 Caritas Street, Bethlehem, The West BankOpen Times: The hotel is closed to visitors at this time, but as the situation in the region improves it will be reopened. Check the hotel website for more information. When it is operating, the hotel museum and art gallery are open to non-hotel guests daily from 11:00 to 19:30. The piano bar is open daily to non-hotel guests from 11:00 to 22:00. Pro Tip: The Piano Bar serves food and drinks and is a nice place to stop for lunch.Prices: Hotel prices start at $70 for a dorm bed. Entry to the Piano Bar is free if you are buying at least a coffee or drink. Entrance to the museum costs approximately $6.50 and tickets are sold at the hotel entrance. Pro Tip: The museum gallery does not hold artwork by Banksy, so if you have come specifically for his work, don’t buy a museum ticket, just enter the bar for a drink and you will see all the Banksy work.Average Visit Duration: 1 hourNotes for Visitors: The hotel is an independent, privately owned business that is not aligned with any political movement. They welcome guests of all nationalities and religions with open hearts, although the whole point of the hotel is to make a statement opposing the existence of the separation wall. Large groups need to book in advance.Special Events: Plans are being made for celebrations in 2027 to mark 110 years since Britain took control of Palestine, and 10 years since the hotel’s opening.Relevant Tours: It is highly recommended to visit the Walled Off Hotel on an organized tour from Israel, preferably a private tour. You can include the hotel in a day of Bethlehem sightseeing and also visit the Church of Nativity. The best option around is this1-Day guided voyage to Bethlehem.The Walled Off Hotel in Bethlehem is a themed art hotel and museum created by the world-famous street artist, Banksy. It is a one-of-a-kind place that not many tourists get to see. Although busloads of tourists visit Bethlehem’s top attraction, the Church of the Nativity, most don’t linger in the West Bank to visit this outstanding site.One of Banksy's most famous creations, the Flower Thrower (Image source: young shanahan CC BY 2.0)Walled Off Hotel is a hotel where every surface became the artist’s canvas and has been used to express his unique style of art that makes social comment. All of Banksy’s work sends a message or makes a sarcastic, satirical, ironic, or tongue-in-cheek commentary on society, politics, or a current situation or event. This particular Banksy project expresses the artist’s views on the Israeli-Palestinian problem, war, and particularly the wall that separates Israel from the Palestinian West Bank.The Walled Off HotelThe hotel was established by the street artist Banksy together with locals in 2017. The artist had already visited the West Bank in 2005, but on his return, he saw the opportunity to have a site that was not only a gallery of his art but a working hotel. The hotel has hotel-type rooms, as well as hostel-like dorm rooms with bunk beds (decorated with IDF surplus materials). Artwork inside one of the rooms in the Walled Off Hotel (Image source: The official Banksy website)Visitors to Bethlehem who are not staying at the hotel can take a tour of the public areas that were designed by Banksy and feature his works of art, for example, the colonial-themed piano bar overflowing with kitsch furniture and decor.Pro Tip: All of the 9 rooms (and one suite) have views of the separation wall but they are not all designed by Banksy. Some of the rooms are designed by other famous artists, so if you really want a Banksy room, make sure you ask when booking.The Walled Off Hotel is a double entendre, referencing the iconic luxury hotel, the Waldorf, and the fact that Bethlehem is in the West Bank, separated from Israel by a wall.The hotel is located in a busy area with plenty of restaurants, bars, and taxis. It is about 500 meters from the checkpoint to Jerusalem and a mile from Bethlehem. So, theoretically, it is safe, but as the situation in the region is volatile and often changes it is best to check with your embassy. It is also highly recommended to visit the hotel with an organized tour from Israel. Organized tours are accompanied by a security unit, specifically to protect you.Who is Banksy?Banksy, a mysterious and elusive street artist, has become a global icon in the realm of contemporary art. Hailing from the United Kingdom, Banksy's identity remains unknown, adding an air of enigma to his work. Renowned for his thought-provoking and politically charged street art, Banksy employs stencils to convey powerful messages on social and political issues.His pieces often appear unexpectedly on city walls, bridges, and buildings, challenging societal norms and sparking conversations about topics such as war, inequality, and government surveillance. Beyond the streets, Banksy's artwork has found its way into prestigious galleries and auction houses, with his satirical and subversive style leaving an indelible mark on the art world.Many consider artist Banksy infamous rather than famous, but none can deny that the artist's commitment to anonymity and his ability to blend poignant commentary with visual allure make Banksy a unique and influential figure in contemporary art and the best-known street artist in the world.In the summer of 2005, Banksy and his team visited the West Bank and left their mark. On that visit, nine murals were created on the dividing wall between Israel and the West Bank. He visited again in 2007 and added several graffiti works of art to the wall. In addition, there is more Banksy Bethlehem art that he has not claimed or which has been done anonymously and the artist is unknown.What You’ll See at the Walled-Off HotelThe Nativity Scene (Scar of Bethlehem)Banksy usually sends the hotel a piece of art as a gift every Christmas, and this artwork is placed in the hotel lobby. One of the better-known “Christmas” gifts from Banksy is his take on the nativity scene. It is called “Scar of Bethlehem” (a play on the Star of Bethlehem) and is a traditional statue scene of the Holy Family against the backdrop of a concrete wall (the separation wall) with a bullet hole (the star) in it.The Girl and the HeartIn the Piano Bar, there is an authentic slab of the separation wall mounted on the wall which features one of Banksy’s works of art. A little girl crouches next to a heart-shaped hole in the concrete wall.Piano BarIn 1917 the British were given a mandate to rule Palestine, and the Piano Bar is themed as a satirical slice of colonial life in the Middle Eastern output. The room features leather furniture, vandalized oil paintings, Banksy statues (cherubs with gas masks), and large ceiling fans. Each day visitors are served English scones and tea in the Piano Bar in true British fashion.Pro Tip: Every night at 19:00 there are live musical performances in the Piano Bar.Gallery and MuseumThe gallery part of the hotel is a completely autonomous section and looks like a regular museum gallery. It showcases original artwork by local artists. The Banksy Gallery (Image source: The official Banksy website)The nearby Museum is dedicated to the separation wall it includesaudio-visual presentations, An animated history of the region, An original beach sculpture from Gaza, military images, and screenings of excerpts from the Oscar-nominated movie Five Broken Cameras.Flower Thrower (Love Is In The Air)Perhaps one of Banksy’s best-known pieces, and one of his first in the West Bank created in 2003. This is not Banksy Bethlehem wall art, as it is stenciled onto the side of a car wash on Ash Salon Street. It is not in very good condition and is not easy to spot, but you will see many replicas of this image. The image features a Palestinian man throwing flowers as if they were a Molotov cocktail.The Flower Thrower graffitiThe AlternativeA stencil piece featuring two cherubs with crowbars trying to open up the wall. It was created at a point where there is a crack in the separation wall, with a cherub on each side so it appears as if they have opened up the crack. This is one of Banksy’s most recent pieces in Bethlehem and is located about 50 meters down the road if you exit the hotel and turn left.Make Hummus Not WarThere are several of these “Make Hummus Not War “graffiti art pieces around the hotel, but they are most likely all replicas of an original that either no longer exists or its location has been forgotten.Banksy Girl Frisking a SoldierLocated on Hebron Road, alongside the Saint Micheal Hotel, inside the Banksy Shop, a small memorabilia and souvenir store. This is one of the oldest Banksy pieces in the city. To see it you need to enter the store, where it is protected to prevent people from getting close enough to damage the art.TheGirl Frisking A Soldier graffitiA Soldier Checking a Donkey’s IDThis piece done in 2007 on the separation wall was later removed and sold. However, you will see several copies of this stencil artwork in Bethlehem.Banksy Dove BethlehemOne of the Banksy works you are likely to see is the mural of a dove wearing a bulletproof vest (flak jacket). This mural is located at the entrance to the Palestinian Heritage Center on Manger Street. Israeli soldiers next to the Flak Jacket Dove graffiti (Image source: St.Dekker CC BY 2.0)It is also referred to as the Armored Dove. Whether or not this work of art can be attributed to Banksy is questionable, but the woman who runs the Heritage Center, Maha Saca claims to have met the artist. She also says that his original painting was of a soldier, and she asked him to change it to something softer. The reason people question whether the dove was painted by Banksy is because it does not appear on his official website like his other works.Pro Tip: You can stop at the Heritage Center when you visit the nearby Nativity Church and pick up an authentic souvenir.

Plan Your VisitLocation: Kibbutz Nahal Oz, Sha’ar HaNegev, IsraelOpen Times: By appointment and with a guided tourPrices: Enquire about tours to Nahal Oz for accurate prices.Average Visit Duration: Half-day and full-day tours are available.Tours:Gaza Envelope Toursare available; Visits must be arranged in advance with a licensed company such as Bein Harim Tourism.Kibbutz Nahal Oz is a name that will forever be associated with the horrific events of October 7, 2023, and the place will never be the same. The vibrant gardens, expansive fields, and farmlands once provided an idyllic life for the small community. Green lawns connected the kibbutz bungalows, gardens bloomed, and children rode their bikes along the kibbutz pathways. Today, the kibbutz is unrecognizable, and the ruins of the once-thriving community are a testament to the events of October 7.Kibbutz Nahal Oz back in 2015 (Image source: Shlomo Roded, CC BY 2.5)Before the massacre on October 7th, Nahal Oz was thriving, and growing at a steady pace as new members joined the kibbutz. The community had a dairy farm, crop fields, and a chicken coop. The kibbutz farms specialized in carrots, wheat, cotton, and asparagus. Members of the community also ran a silicon plant and an engineering firm. Residents enjoyed a cultural center, schools, and a local bar. There was also a Visitor Center for Heritage, Security, and Agriculture. But they lived in the shadow of a constant threat. Rockets, exploding balloons, and burning kites were regularly sent across the border from Gaza, into the Nahal Oz fields.Where is Nahal Oz?Spread across about 140 acres, the kibbutz is located in southern Israel, in the northwestern part of the Negev Desert, not far from the border with the Gaza Strip. Neighboring towns include Sderot and Netivot.What Does Nahal Oz Mean?The literal translation of Nahal is a stream, and Oz means courage. But Nahal is also a Hebrew acronym for Fighting Pioneer Youths, and it is the name of an Israeli army brigade that combines military service with social welfare and educational programs. Before the 1990s, Nahal was also involved in establishing agricultural settlements, often along the country’s borders. The Nahal program helped establish about 108 kibbutzim and agricultural settlements. The first of these settlements was Kibbutz Nahal Oz.Defense wall around the Nahal Oz Kindergarten (Image source: Dr. Avishai Teicher CC BY 2.5)In 1951 Nahal Oz was founded as a military post, in 1953 it evolved into a civilian community that lived as a communal farm. In 1955, the kibbutz was officially formed. The group of young, patriotic Israelis had agricultural training and were also able to protect the fledgling kibbutz from any attacks.They built, plowed, sowed, and planted on the former land of Be’erot Yitzhak Kibbutz which had moved further inland. At first, there were no fences, just open fields around the small community. The kibbutz experienced regular infiltrations by thieves, and Fedayeen (Palestinian militants), which culminated in the tragic murder of one of the kibbutz security officers, Ro’i Rothberg in 1956.On the day of Ro’i Rothberg’s murder, the community was preparing for the wedding of four kibbutz couples, and even the country’s Chief of Staff, Moshe Dayan was invited. In the morning, as food was being prepared, and decorations hung for the weddings, there were reports of an infiltration across the fields.Ro’i set out on his horse to chase the infiltrators away, but instead, he was murdered, his body mutilated, and dragged into Gaza. A day that was supposed to be filled with joy, became one of mourning, and instead of singing and dancing, the first grave was dug on the kibbutz.In the years that followed, Nahal Oz still had to contend with frequent attacks, burned fields, and shelling. Each time they would replant their fields and continue. Fences were built, and rebuilt, but nothing could prepare them for October 7th.Nahal Oz Massacre on October 7th AttackBy 2023, Nahal Oz had a population of approximately 400-500. The Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah on October 7, 2023, was supposed to be a day of celebration as Nahal Oz marked its 70th anniversary. But there were no celebrations. In the early hours of October 7, an estimated 100 -150 Hamas terrorists and Palestinian civilians broke through the fence dividing Gaza from Israel and entered Nahal Oz. Nahal Oz was one of several communities in the Gaza envelope targeted that day, as well as an open-air music festival happening nearby.The terrorists found families still asleep, or only just waking up. They massacred whole families, took hostages, tortured, raped, and mutilated the residents of Nahal Oz. There was hardly a family that was unaffected by this unimaginable tragedy. Almost a quarter of the kibbutz members were either murdered or kidnapped.In addition to the bloodshed, the terrorists burned and destroyed property, and stole or destroyed all of the kibbutz’s farming equipment. The Hamas terrorists filmed their attack with GoPro cameras and uploaded evidence of the atrocities to social media. By the early afternoon, Israeli soldiers had arrived, and by nightfall, Israeli forces had cleared the kibbutz of all infiltrators.Kibbutz Nahal Oz Since October 7thThe surviving residents were evacuated, and Kibbutz Nahal Oz was declared a closed military area. The residents left behind their homes, land, and belongings, as well as their farms. As the war raged in Gaza, they gradually returned to the kibbutz to work the land and milk the cows.However, the Nahal Oz community has not yet made a plan to return to the kibbutz. They have been rehoused in other parts of the country, and are contemplating if and when to return to the place they once called paradise.In a hostage exchange deal in November 2023, 40 of the abducted Nahal Oz residents were returned to Israel. Among those still held in Gaza is one-year-old Kfir Bibas, the youngest abductee, but it is still not clear whether he is alive or dead.Places To Visit In and Around Nahal Oz KibbutzKibbutz Nahal Oz is still as it was in the aftermath of October 7th, debris lies on the ground, buildings are pockmarked with bullet holes, and personal items have been abandoned. You can tour the attack sites, and visit the kibbutz dairy farm (the feeding and milking have continued). See the graffiti dedicated to those who lost their lives and those who fought so bravely.Nova Music Festival in Re’im Forest where the October 7 terrorists took the lives of approximately 364 people. There are several memorials at Nova.Netivot is where the piles, and piles, of destroyed and burned vehicles have been collected from the October 7 attack.Kobi Hill offers an overview of the Gaza Strip.Sderot is one of the frontier towns where you can learn about the bomb shelters and protected bus shelters, and see some of the rockets that have been repurposed or turned into art.Nahal Oz Military Baseis not part of the nearby Kibbutz Nahal Oz. It was also attacked on October 7, and It is possible to see the outside of the base.Roadside rest stationsoffer Israeli soldiers a brief break and provide them with free meals, showers, and laundry services. Here you might be able to meet and chat with some of the soldiers.Should You Visit the Gaza Envelope?While the country is at war, the Gaza Envelope remains a volatile area, however, people still live and work in the region, and tours are provided for those who wish to bear witness to the events of October 7. Visiting the Gaza Envelope area is not a matter of gawping at the pain and suffering of others, but rather a gesture of solidarity with the people of Nahal Oz and Israel as a whole.

Why Visit Petra with Children?Out of all the reasons, we decided to focus on three.Children will be mesmerized by Petra's beauty. Carved out of rose pink rock, with narrow passageways, stunning facades, colonnaded streets, and magnificent views of the surrounding desert, it really is a one-of-a-kind place.It’s a great way to get your kids off their phones and iPads - once they’ve started exploring the site, they’ll probably be so fascinated with it that you’ll have to drag them away. Exploring Petra is a great way to teach them about history and the Visitor’s Centre offers a free audio guide for children that’s engaging and also educational, letting them explore the site and learn about the people that lived there.Kids at the Petra Archeological Park Jordan is a very child-friendly country. Like everywhere in the Middle East, children rule the roost - everyone loves them, makes a fuss of them, and spoils them. So on a visit to Petra, they definitely won’t need to be seen and not heard.Is it Safe to Take Children to Petra?Jordan is a pretty safe country to visit, in any event, but Petra - in particular - is highly recommended because it’s not just set up for tourism but the government and local security staff there take safety very seriously.There are few incidents of crime (e.g. petty theft) and almost no incidents of violence, making the area very safe for families. You can walk the streets easily, day or night, there are local police on hand both in Wadi Musa and the site of Petra itself. If you decide to visit, you will see many groups of people, consisting both of adults and younger family members, roaming around.The Tourism Police in Wadi Musa (Image by Dickelbers CC BY-SA 3.0)Petra is a popular tourist attraction (which brings in a lot of revenue) and the Jordanian government wants to keep it that way - as a result, they go to great efforts to make sure the area is kept safe - after all, happy tourists will spread the word, or even return!Exploring Petra with ChildrenPetra is enormous and there’s lots to see. But there are some places and things that really must be experienced, including:The Siq and Treasury - walking through the Siq passageway is an incredible feeling and at a certain point it’s so narrow that you can’t see far ahead, so have no idea when the Treasury will come into view. When it does, your children will be overwhelmed. As will you. Then spend time in front of the Treasury itself…it’s simply awe-inspiring.The Indiana Jones trail - older kids will find hiking this trail - in the footsteps of Indiana Jones - completely thrilling. Rather than walking through the Siq, take the trail that heads southwest across a desert plain…eventually you’ll arrive at an amazing lookout high above the Treasury. Think about taking a local guide so you don’t get lost!The view is Amazing!Horse and Carriage/Donkey Riding - some people like to use animals to travel the Siq and your kids might enjoy it - just make sure that you agree on the price beforehand to avoid any possible quarrels and that the animals look well-cared for.Petra by Night - taking children to Petra at night can be a lot of fun - the entire area around the Treasury is lit with thousands of candles and you’ll also be treated to a traditional Arabic musical performance. Just remember that you need to buy a separate ticket for this activity.The Petra Monastery - this medium to hard walk, involving 850 uneven stairs, is a bit steep and not suitable for youngsters but is a well-worn trail. Moreover, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of this site and there are far fewer crowds there than at the Treasury.Little Petra - a fifteen-minute drive from Wadi Musa and boasting free entrance, this site is smaller and more compact but with the same facades and gorges. Children will love the caves and rock formations there and there are easy hikes for all the family.What Kind of Places can I Stay with Children in Petra?Petra has accommodations to suit all budgets and tastes. Something kids will really enjoy is sleeping at a Bedouin camp - they are well set up and, in many respects, it’s more like ‘glamping’ - comfy beds, private toilets, and even mink throws for when it gets cold at night.Great hotels await you in and around the Petra Archeological Park There are plenty of mid-range and upscale resorts around, with family rooms, play areas, and even kids' clubs. You and your children will love eating traditional Jordanian food around a campfire at night or in one ofPetra's great restaurants. And if you decide that you need a quiet night out with your partner, you can book babysitters in some of the top resorts.Tips for Traveling to Petra with ChildrenAs we’ve said, your children are bound to love visiting this Lost City but there are still a few things you should bear in mind, and here are some tips to make the trip as enjoyable as possible.Try to avoid traveling there in the summer - it can be scorching hot. Consider March to May and September to November as optimal dates - temperatures are pleasant and skies clear, but there will be little rain.Keep an eye on your children - certain parts of Petra can get very crowded at certain times of the day, particularly the Siq passageway and the Treasury area.Make sure you're all dressed for exploration - you’ll need comfy shoes, breathable clothing, hats and sunscreen - the sun can be a beast if you aren’t careful.Carry water and snacks with you - it’s easy to get dehydrated if you aren’t careful and this can really ruin your trip, so pack plenty of water (everyone can carry a backpack with a couple of bottles, large or small). Also take some energy bars or dried fruits and nuts, to keep everyone’s strength up.Take the crowds into consideration - exploring Petra early in the morning and later in the afternoon with a rest in the middle of the day - not only will it be less crowded between 7am-10am and from 3pm to closing time, but you’ll all appreciate the lie-down! Your ticket is valid for the entire day so there’s no problem having a break, then returning once the crowds thin out.Book a guided tour of Petra- this means that everything is arranged for you in advance - visas, travel to Wadi Musa, accommodation and the entrance ticket Even better, you’ll have the services of a local guide, who can teach your children all about the special history of the area and make sure they have a holiday that they’ll never forget.

Petra’s reputation as one of the modern wonders of the world is well-deserved: it’s not just a site of huge historic importance, it’s also extraordinarily beautiful - and no wonder so many people who take Israel and Jordan toursdedicate a day or two to see its timeless splendor.And let me tell you: the Petra Archeological Park can be visited year-round. Located in the Jordanian desert, on the outskirts of a small village named Wadi Musa, it actually experiences all four seasons!The Siq in Petra, JordanSo what kind of weather can you expect when visiting Petra? Let’s take a look at the average temperature across the calendar and what to expect when taking tours to Jordan at different times of the year.Summer in PetraThere’s no denying it - Petra can be exceedingly hot in the summer. With temperatures soaring, the mercury can end up above 37°C (100°F) at the day’s peak and when the sun is blazing (and the humidity is rising), walking around can be quite arduous.However, this doesn’t mean you can’t visit - it just means you need to be smart and plan ahead.How to deal with the weather at Petra, Jordan1. First of all, set off early. The gates to Petra open at 6 am in the summer which means that if you rise with the dawn, you can walk down the Siq passageway when it’s still quiet and be in front of the Treasury by 7 am. Not only will it be cooler, but you’ll also have incredible photographic opportunities.And if you’re not an early riser, set off later in the afternoon - after 3.30 pm. By then, the majority of visitors will be leaving and not only will the sun’s rays be less intense, but you’ll be able to take advantage of the ‘golden hour’ when the colors of the rocks around you are constantly changing.The Sunrise over the Jordanian desert2. Dress appropriately. We can’t emphasize this enough. Invest in a wide-brimmed hat, good sunglasses (the glare of the sun in the desert is notorious), and wear breathable fabrics. Comfortable footwear is essential (it’s a long walk to the Siq unless you want to travel there by donkey) and before you set off, apply plenty of sunscreen.3. Drink water constantly. This is paramount. In the desert heat, you need to be drinking at least 3 liters of water per day. This may sound like a great deal but it isn’t. Carry water bottles and keep sipping, even when you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration sneaks up on you and if you don’t take in enough fluids, you’re going to feel awful by the evening and - worst case scenario - end up with heatstroke.Drink as much as possible!4. Take cooldown breaks.If you’re spending the entire day at Petra (rather than going early in the morning, then returning later in the afternoon), try and stay out of the sun between 11 am to 3 pm. This is when it is at its most intense. Inside the site is a restaurant called The Basin, which offers shaded, indoor dining with air-con. This is a good option for breaking up your day and taking some rest.5. Visit Petra in the evening. Not that we don't think Petra is worth seeing in the day, but if you want to avoid the sun, go at night! Several times a week, the area in front of the Treasury is lit up by thousands of candles and it’s a truly incredible sight. Even though this is an additional cost to the ticket price, many find it to be a unique experience.Fall in PetraBy the time summer has passed, the temperatures will be dropping again: Fall is a wonderful time to visit Petra. In September it will still be hot in the day (around 30°C/85°F) but pleasant in the evening. Moving into October, temperatures will still be moderate but will start to dip as the month progresses.Get some shade, and grab a drink - the Coffee is better than you've ever imaginedBy the end of the month, the skies may be a little bit more overcast but you still shouldn’t have to deal with rain. Nevertheless, you should definitely pack a warm jacket because by the evening it will be cold!Still, with median temperatures of 27°C (81°F), this is a very popular time for visitors. And even in November, although you might encounter some light rain, it’s still possible to hike and cycle around the site! Petra isn't too crowded during this season, so people who favor a relaxed atmosphere tend to bookPetra toursfrom October to November.Winter in PetraPetra boasts a cold but reasonably dry winter climate. And even whilst there will be fewer hours of daylight than at any other time of the year, on a good day there might easily be 7 hours of sunshine! The average temperature throughout December - January will be around 14°C (57°F) but drop substantially at night - sometimes to between 0-2°C (32-34°F)Just remember that however much the sun shines in the day, when night falls it’s going to be bitterly cold. You are, remember, in the desert! You’ll need a warm coat, gloves, hat, scarf, and even thermal underwear if you suffer from winter chills!The Petra Monastery in winterTwice, since the 1960’s, Petra has flooded, which means the chances of having to deal with heavy downpours are unlikely but still possibleRain is most likely in December but there won’t be enormous amounts - you’re far more likely to see frost on the ground. And the good news about traveling to Petra at this time of the year means there will definitely be fewer tourists.Just remember that while the gates still open at 6 am in the winter, they close at 4 pm so plan ahead accordingly.Spring in PetraThe beginning of spring - March - is a wonderful time to visit Petra. The sun will be shining brightly, wildflowers out everywhere you look and temperatures will be hovering between 18 to 24°C (64-75°F).By April, spring will have arrived in earnest, and by May it will already be heating up. Still, this is a very popular time of the year to make a visit - the climate is almost perfect, being neither too cold nor too hot.The Petra Monastery during spring, with blooming Oleander bushesIn terms of exploring the lost city, the climate is perfect - not too hot and not too cold. The only possible drawback is being caught up in a ‘hamseen’ - a desert wind that blows across the Arabian peninsula at this time of the year. With it comes dust and sometimes dark skies, not to mention raised temperatures and sand flying everywhere. Luckily it tends to last just a few days, but it’s good to be preparedWeather at Petra, Jordan: When should I come?In conclusion, there’s no ‘one time’ of the year to visit Petra (or Wadi Rum, if you like camping, stargazing, and jeep trips) but the spring and the fall are undoubtedly the best months to make a trip. Because the weather is cooler but not too chur blog.

Whether you're traveling on a spiritual tripin the footsteps of Jesus, or just want to have some Middle-Eastern fun - your first time in Israel will be a trip you’ll never forget! This is a land that might be small, but it really packs a punch in terms of history, nature, art and culture, cuisine, and nightlife; few go away disappointed after a holiday here.The best sandy shores in the Middle East await you!Still, if it’s your first trip to Israel, you’re bound to have a few questions, not to mention be looking for tips and hacks to make sure you get the most out of your vacation. Here’s a few things we think you might want to know before you arrive. Shalom and welcome!The Best Time to Visit IsraelIsrael’s a great year-round destination but for the best weather conditions, we’d have to recommend spring and late fall. From March to mid-June, there will be plenty of sun, warm days with cool evenings and it’s perfect for sunbathing in Tel Aviv, hiking both in the Galilee, trekking in the Negev desert, and eating al fresco in the evenings.Ever seen the sunset from the top of a 2,000-year-old legendary Fortress?After the long summer months, October is a wonderful time to travel, when the heat is abating but you can still swim in the Mediterranean, and enjoy the blue skies. November is also pleasant and - with fewer tourists around - the top sites will be less crowded and accommodation will be cheaper to book.The Worst Time to Visit IsraelThere’s no real ‘worst’ time to visit Israel (honestly!) but there are certain times of the year that it’s worth avoiding, on a pragmatic level.Yom Kippur (falling sometime between Sept-Oct) is Israel’s ‘Day of Atonement’ where at least half of the Jewish population fast for 25 hours and attend services around the clock, in synagogues. It is the holiest day of the Jewish calendar and throughout the country, everything is shut.Yom Kippur In Israel - people just walking on the empty roads (Photo by Ron Almog, CC BY 2.0)By this, we mean everything! You cannot drive on the roads, shop, visit restaurants, tour historic sites and museums and even Ben Gurion International Airport shuts down. Essentially, the country comes to a standstill - so be prepared for ‘quiet time’ if you’re visiting.In terms of weather, July and August can be blisteringly hot, and January and February cold and rainy (especially in Jerusalem and the Golan Heights). And two of the major Jewish holidays - Passover (which lasts for 8 days and falls in the spring) and Sukkot (a seven-day festival in the Fall) are when Jews from around the world visit Israel, so the country is very crowded.Must-See Historic & Religious Sites in IsraelIsrael is home to hundreds of religious and historic sites, but some are so incredible that they have to be on your ‘Milk & Honey bucket list‘. They include:The Old City of Jerusalem.the Old City is small (less than one square kilometer) but walking through its ancient gates and wandering inside its walls is truly an unforgettable experience. Sacred to three major world religions (Christianity, Judaism, and Islam) the Old City is crammed with religious sites, includingVia DolorosaandChurch of the Holy Sepulchre,the Dome of the RockandTemple Mount,the Western Wallandthe ancient underground tunnelsof the City of David.The Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Old JerusalemYou could spend days, if not weeks, exploring Jerusalem but if you really want to get the most out of it we recommend taking awalking tour of the Old City- guides in Israel are licensed by the Ministry of Tourism and you’ll be blown away at how much history they really can share with you.Also, try to find time to visitthe Mount of Olives. Just outside the Old City, it’s home tothe Garden of Gethsemaneand several beautiful churches, includingDominus Flevit,Pater Noster, and theRussian Church.Masada Fortress:the ancient fortress of Masada, set on a plateau in the Judean desert, is one of Israel’s most visited archaeological sites. At its top is a Herodian palace, which you can reach and explore by taking a cable car up and witnessing dramatic views.The Masada national parkis also close tothe Dead Sea, so you can easilycombine the two attractionsin an organized day trip - there's plenty ofMasada Toursto choose from. Masada Fortress from aboveBethlehem:The famous birthplace of Jesus is just a short trip from Jerusalem. You can visitManger Square, continue to theChurch of Nativity, see enjoy great street food along the way.The city is under the control of the Palestinian Authority so the easiest way to explore it is with anorganized tour to Bethlehem; you will have the services of guides on both sides of the checkpoint and a comfortable and safe trip.Don't tell me you never spent Christmas in Bethlehem!Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee:The north of Israel isn’t just stunningly pastoral; it’s also home to Nazareth - where Jesus lived as a child - and the Sea of Galilee - where he spent most of his adult life, ministering, recruiting his disciples and performing miracles. Churches, synagogues, and glorious views of mountains and hills at every turn mean these spots should definitely make the ‘must-visit’ list.The Sea of GalileeWhat about nature and outdoor activities in Israel?You’re truly spoilt for choice in Israel when it comes to the great outdoors and with plenty of spots to ski, dive, hike, trek, rappel, and jeep ride - adrenalin junkies will be in paradise.Israel’s home to some stunning national parks, within which you can hike or bike along trails, swim in streams and stand under waterfalls, and picnic under eucalyptus groves. In the Golan Heights, you can take jeep tours along the border with Syria, affording you not just magnificent views but a chance to see old fortifications from wars fought long ago.The Banias WaterfallDown in the Negev and Arava desert, you can hike and trek through wadis (valleys), camp under the stars, spend a night with Bedouins, and explore one of the largest craters in the world - the Mahktesh Ramon in the tiny town of Mitzpe Ramon. Walk around its edges, hike inside it (it’s home to wonderful flora and fauna), or - for an experience, you’ll never forget - rappel down its side!Finally, for those who love the water, head to Eilat for snorkeling and diving in coral reefs, jet skiing and paddleboarding on the Red Sea, swimming with dolphins on a reef, camel riding in the nearby mountains, and a trip to Timna Park, home to incredible rock formations and an ancient copper mine!Israeli food: what should I expect?It’s impossible not to eat well in Israel. Trust us, this country is heaven for foodies, not to mention vegetarians and vegans, lovers of baked goods, cheese aficionados, those who keep kosher, and even gluten-intolerant folks.The Holy Land has some awesome gourmet foodBecause Israeli society is such a melting pot (Jews from every corner of the globe live here) that’s reflected in its food. There’s fantastic fish (straight from the Mediterranean), all kinds of white and yellow cheeses, an astonishing variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, and boutique bakeries at every turn.“Classic” Israeli street food includes falafel in pita (deep-fried chickpea balls, served up with salad, pickles, and tahini), sabich (an Iraqi sandwich), and - of course - hummus (if you’re adventurous, order a plate of it with an egg, mushrooms or ful (Egyptian fava beans). Meat lovers can go with shawarma or chicken soup (also known as ‘Jewish penicillin’).Israeli Street food is almost addictive!For those who are really curious, we’d recommend a Carmel Market food tour in Tel Aviv or perhaps splashing out on a gourmet meal at one of Jerusalem’s top restaurants.What’s the daily atmosphere like in Israel? Is it safe?Israelis are an interesting bunch - they’re curious about the world, love talking to tourists, are warm and friendly, and sadly often so direct that visitors mistake this for rudeness! Something else you’ll notice is that contrary to everything you read in the news, daily life in Israel is quite ‘normal’ (save for occasional flare-ups, most of which tend to happen in the West Bank).Israelis will just smile at you; it's in their natureIsrael’s remarkably safe on a personal level - you can walk around at 3 am and no harm will come to you - and is, therefore, a good place for solo and female travelers. Nearly everyone speaks some English and many people are fluent (Israelis are great travelers themselves) and are anxious for visitors to see how wonderful their country is.Eilat, Israel's best resort cityMost of all, Israelis love to help. If you trip over in the street, 20 people will run to lend you a hand. If you’re lost, you’ll not only be given directions but often offered a ride. And if you’re visiting over the Jewish holidays, don’t be surprised to receive an invite to someone’s home - hospitality here is legendary.What does a 10-day trip to Israel cost?We won’t sugarcoat it - this country can be expensive; Tourists arriving here are often astounded by the high cost of food, alcohol, and accommodation - of course, there are ways to travel Israel on a budget and make your trip more affordable - but you do need to prepare yourself.Whilst it’s possible to travel independently (public transport is cheap and efficient, most locals speak good English, infrastructure is developed) but you’re still going to spend a fair bit. That’s why many people choose, on their first trip, to opt for a package tour around Israel. The Bahai Gardens in HaifaWhether you’re looking for a ‘classic trip’ or something oriented towards Christian pilgrims, booking a package means you’ll have the services of a guide, an air-conditioned bus, the cost of entrance to many sites paid in advance, and all accommodation organized for you. Basically, it’s a stress-free and time-efficient way to see the country and, when you’ve crunched the numbers, it may not be that much more expensive than going it alone.Tour groups can save more, and do more in IsraelThat being said, it’s also possible to travel the country independently and, whenever you feel like it, book an Israel day trip. Places like Masada and the Dead Sea, Nazareth, and the Galilee, are a bit tricky to travel around without a car rental, and if you don’t want to drive or - of course - want to know more about the history of these areas, then a day tour with a guide is the way to go.If you’re interested in learning more about our taking a vacation in Israel or Organized Tours in Israel, feel free to reach out by email, Whatsapp, or phone - we’re happy to answer all your questions and help you make your trip a very memorable one.

As a general rule, wherever you are in the world you should be drinking at least two liters of water today but when it comes to visiting Israel in the summer, you need to be consuming water all the time, even when you don’t think you need it!We’re here to answer all your questions about the water supply in Israel - where does it come from, what’s in it, is it safe to drink, and plenty more besides. The good news is that being a modern country with an excellent healthcare system, we don’t think you’re going to have too many problems staying healthy as long as you just keep sipping!Is the water in Israel safe to drink?One of the first things we’re usually asked by people who book tours to Israel with us is “Is the tap water safe to drink?” and we’re pleased to announce the answer is a resounding “yes.”Israel's water is superb, even tap water.Wherever you go in the country, you can be assured that tap water in a restaurant, and water from public fountains found in big cities is perfectly safe. You can alsototally truston-site water coolerswhether you're taking a day trip in Jerusalem, visiting northern Israel,touring Masada and the Dead Sea, or any other tourist favorite spots.And one tip we always give our clients is to keep filling up your bottle, whenever you have the opportunity. Whether you’ve brought your own thermos flask from home or are just refilling from a plastic bottle you purchased here, it’s completely free.How much is a bottle of water in Israel?If you’re popping into a corner store or kiosk for a small bottle of water (500 ml), expect to pay around 6-8 NIS. A larger bottle may cost around 8-10 NIS, but if you go to supermarkets and buy in bulk (i.e. a pack of six, containing 1.5 liters) the cost is much more reasonable - between 10-12 NIS. This works out at less than 2 NIS a bottle.The bottle with you, fill it up laterOf course, lugging around large bottles is a bit inconvenient but it’s certainly cost-effective. Also, bear in mind that locally-produced water is cheaper than anything imported, and mineral water will set you back a little more than still water. Still, heading to one of Israel’s supermarkets is probably your best bet if you don’t want to spend a fortune.What’s the Israeli water supply like?Israel has its share of world-famous scientists and has developed an extremely advanced water filtration system in the last sixty years.In 1962, Amiad Filtration Systems was established and from then until now has created all kinds of water solutions (many that other countries across the world have adopted), ranging from filters for the home to huge projects for city authorities and industry.You can trust local water quality, for yourself and your familyThis, to some degree, accounts for Israel’s success in agricultural endeavors (think of the cherry tomato, the Galila melon, and Angello, the seedless bell pepper. In fact, Israel’s government is so committed to agriculture development, that whether you’re traveling up in the Jordan Valley or down in the Negev desert (both particularly hot regions) you’ll see farms and greenhousesWhere does Israel get its water?There are three sources in Israel from which water can be drawn - groundwater pumping (from the mountains and coastal regions). surface water (from the Sea of Galilee, and streams and springs in national parks in northern Israel) and from desalination projects in the Mediterranean Sea and Red Sea.Today, about 75% of Israel’s drinking water is drawn and then desalinated from the Mediterranean Sea. There is also a project in place (which should be up and running this year) where Israel will begin channeling desalinated water into the Sea of Galilee (the country’s largest freshwater lake and home to an emergency water store). The Jordan River has great water as well!Not only will this not damage the current ecosystem, it will even aid it by keeping water levels stable!And if you want an example of how advanced Israel is in terms of transforming water for economic gain, just look at the figures - in the USA, only 4% of wastewater is reused for agricultural purposes but in Israel, it is almost 90%.How strict are the water quality regulations?More good news - the Ministry of Health has responsibility for ensuring the water in Israel is of good quality so that the public can drink it safely, all year round and they take this matter seriously!Israel’s regulations about water are extremely advanced, with regulations updated every few years - they deal with treatment facilities, quality tests at the water source, and how the supply systems are working. So fear not, for you are in good hands.What is the Drinking Age in Israel?Israel has great water, but also wonderful local Beer. The minimum drinking age in Israel is 18, although some bars and nightclubs may not allow entrance to those under the age of 21-25 (always bring ID with you, if you’re going out for a night on the town).Wine, beer, and hard liquor are available freely in Israel although there are laws about where and when you can consume it (for instance, you cannot drink alcohol in public between 11 pm and 7 am). Technically, this means that if you’re sitting on one of Israel’s best beaches with a bottle of beer or wine, after midnight, the police could ask you to pour it away - in practice, this is not common though.Moreover, Israel is very Mediterranean in its drinking culture i.e. people will drink moderately throughout the evening, and avoid getting hopelessly drunk. This moderation is also aided by the fact that alcohol is quite expensive to purchase, both over the counter and in fashionable bars in Tel Aviv!Try the local Beers when you get the chanceEstablished in the 1990s, Bein Harim has been offering organized packages, day trips, and privately-guided tours all over Israel (and, more recently, to Petra and Wadi Rum in Jordan) for over 25 years and with our experienced and qualified guides and professional team, promise to make your visit here one you’ll never forget.For more information about the tours we offer, feel free to contact us by email or phone and if you’re curious about our country, take a look at our blog, where we talk about all aspects of life in Israel.

This tour to the incredible coastal cities of Caesarea, Rosh HaNikra, Haifa, and Acre starts as we travel north of Tel Aviv along the coastal road. We pass the beach resort cities of Herzilya and Natanya then arrive in Caesarea. Our Caesarea tour takes us through the remains of Caesarea Maritima, an ancient Roman city constructed by Herod, King of Judea in about 25-13 BC. The port city had a theater, hippodrome, temples, palaces, and other structures. Many have been excavated and preserved. The theater is still used today for performances by leading artists. Later Caesarea became a Byzantine capital. Then the Crusaders established a city here surrounded by massive fortified walls.Continuing on our tour we pass through Haifa, Israel’s third-largest city built on the slope of Mount Carmel facing the sea. The Haifa tour stops at the Baha’i Gardens where 19 terraces flow down Mt. Carmel. The terraces are planted with geometric precision and adorned with flowers, fountains, and statues. At the center of the garden is the Shrine of Bab. Your tour guide will tell you about the Baha’i, their beliefs, and the significance of the gardens. Next, the tour reaches the extreme northern border where Israel meets Lebanon and the sea crashes against the white cliffs of Rosh HaNikra. Over millennia nature has hollowed out a labyrinth of tunnels and caves in the rock. The reflection of the white rock onto the blue water creates a magical turquoise color. Once the caves were only accessible from the water but today tourists can take a cable car down to the caves.As the tour makes its way south on our return journey we stop in the Crusader City of Acre (Acco). Above ground, there is a lively Ottoman-era city with a busy market and fishing harbor. Beneath the surface is a complete Crusader city built in the 12th century. See fortified walls and a moat that even Napoleon was not able to overcome. Tour the Crusader remains the Turkish citadel and see sites used during the British Mandate. The tour leaves Acre and returns south along the coast.

This Jerusalem Old and New Tour starts on Mt. Scopus with stunning views of Jerusalem’s skyline. In the distance is the Old City and Temple Mount where the golden dome of the Dome of the Rock offers the perfect photo-op. Looking down we see a 3,000-year-old Jewish cemetery. As we leave the mount we pass the Garden of Gethsemane; the Church of All Nations and Kidron Valley, site of ancient Jewish tombs.The tour continues to the Jewish Quarter where we see the 1,900-year-old Cardo, an excavated Byzantine street. Later Crusaders added stores flanking the Cardo and today modern stores fill the Crusader structures.The tour continues to the Western Wall, a sacred Jewish site. The Western Wall was part of the original Second Holy Jewish Temple and the only part to survive destruction in 70AD. On the tour you can join others from around the world and place a prayer note between the stones of the wall.The tour of old Jerusalem takes you along part of the Via Dolorosa; this is the route Jesus took as he carried his cross towards Calvary. At the end of the Via Dolorosa is the sacred Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This 4th century church holds the site where Jesus was crucified and Christ’s burial tomb. Today the church has more than 30 chapels and precious religious relics. The tour takes a lunch break and then passes the Old City’s Middle Eastern bazaar.We leave the Old City and travel through the new modern city of Jerusalem. Instead of ancient structures and religious landmarks new Jerusalem holds modern-day wonders. We make our final stop at Yad VaShem Holocaust Museum. At Yad VaShem you can see a vast collection of historic photographs, authentic artifacts, documents, video testimonials by Holocaust survivors and memorials to those that lost their lives.

The Nazareth and Sea of Galilee tour begins with a scenic drive north along the Mediterranean coast. The tour turns inland to the Valley of Armageddon where we see Megiddo in the distance. Before reaching Nazareth we pass by the Mount of Precipitation. The Book of Luke tells us how an angry crowd tried to throw Jesus off this mount. In Nazareth, we tour the beautiful Church of Annunciation built on the site where the Angel Gabriel told Mary of her future son. This Sea of Galilee tour continues to the adjacent Church of St. Joseph where the Holy Family lived and where Joseph had his carpentry workshop. Leaving Nazareth the tour continues through the idyllic countryside to the Sea of Galilee.We pass by Cana the site where Jesus turned water into wine. We see the Mt. of Beatitudes where Christ gave his Sermon on the Mount. The tour stops in Capernaum where Jesus based himself during his ministry in Galilee. In Capernaum, we will see the Church built over the excavated home of St. Peter and in the nearby village of Tabgha - the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes.The tour takes you along the shore of the Kinneret where Jesus walked on water and calmed the Sea. It was on these shores that Jesus performed most of his miracles. We can enjoy the view of the Sea surrounded by green farmlands with the majestic Golan Heights rising up on the opposite shore. We pass Tiberias, the largest settlement on the shores of the beautiful Sea of Galilee dating back more than 2,000 years. The tour stops where the Jordan River meets the Sea of Galilee. It was here that Jesus may have been baptized by John. On this tour, it is possible for visitors to also be baptized here in the JordanRiver. After a thrilling day filled with Christian sites in Galilee, we return south past Mt. Tabor site of the Transfiguration.

This Golan Heights tour sets off traveling north and takes you up the coast before turning inland and traveling through the Plain of Armageddon and past Megiddo. We travel through the green pastures and rolling hills of Galilee and look down on the Sea of Galilee. To the east of the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights await us. We make our way up the Golan Heights through the smallcommunities, vineyards, farmlands, and forests. We pass Hamat Gader famed for its hot springs that have been enjoyed by man since the Roman era. We reach Shalom Observatory high on the basalt cliffs of the Golan. It is clear why this point is of such strategic importance as we can even see as far as Tiberias on the opposite shore of the Sea of Galilee.The next stop on this Golan Heights tour is Katzrin, the site of excavations that revealed a settlement from the 1st-century Mishnah and 4th-century Talmudic periods. Parts of the village have been restored including the synagogue, homes, and an ancient oil press. We stop in modern-day Katzrin to visit the local sites.The tour continues to Mount Bental where parts of the Syrian fortifications have remained. We walk through the remaining Syrian bunkers and trenches captured by Israelis in the 1967 Six-Day War. Since 1974 this has been a peaceful border and from this elevated location we can look over into neighboring Syria; the Syrian capital is just 50 km from here. The Golan Heights tour comes to an end as we drive through the lush countryside leaving the Galilee behind and make our way back towards Tel Aviv.

Tour Jerusalem and Bethlehem with a PRO guide! we'll be at Mount Scopus with a breathtaking view of Jerusalem. You'll see the Old City walls and beyond the Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount. Then, we descend from Mt. Scopus to the Kidron Valley on the way to the old city we pass Christian landmarks like the Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations.The Jerusalem tour enters the Old City via the Zion Gate and continues through the Armenian Quarter arriving at the Jewish Quarter. Here we see the Byzantine Cardo, an excavated ancient street that was once a bustling thoroughfare. We stop at the Western Wall, the one part of the Second Holy Temple that survived destruction in 70 AD. Next, we'll continue to the Via Dolorosa. Following the path Jesus took from his judgment to his crucifixion the Via Dolorosa leads us to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This ornate 12th-century church encompasses the last Stations of the Cross including the Calvary where Jesus was crucified and the burial tomb where he was laid to rest. We leave the Old City via a typical Middle Eastern market.The Jerusalem and Bethlehem tour moves on to Bethlehem, the birthplace of Christ. Arriving in Manger Square we enter the Basilica of the Nativity. This church was built above the Grotto of the Nativity where Christ was born. While in the church we see 12th-century mosaics as well as the original floor and mosaic from the first church that was built by St Helen in the 4th century. If possible, we also visit the adjacent Church of Saint Catherine where we descend to subterranean caves and see sacred tombs and chapels. We make our way back to Jerusalem passing the Church of the Angels in Shepherds Field and the Field of Ruth where King David’s great-grandmother met Boaz.

This Jerusalem and Dead Sea tour starts on Mount Scopus where we enjoy an incredible view across the rooftops of Jerusalem. Your guide will point out highlights on Mount Scopus like the Garden of Gethsemane, Church of All Nations, and Kidron Valley below. Driving through the stunning Jerusalem scenery the tour reaches the Old City and enters by way of the Zion Gate.Within the 500-year-old Old City walls, we see the Armenian Quarter and head for the ancient Jewish Quarter. See the excavated 1,500 year old Byzantine Cardo, an ancient street lined with tall columns. The Jerusalem tour visits the sacred Western Wall, a remnant of the Second Holy Temple’s outer retaining walls. This wall survived the Temple’s destruction in 70AD and is now a holy Jewish landmark.The tour traces Jesus’s route to his crucifixion from the 5th Station of the Cross along the sacred Via Dolorosa. Bearing his cross Jesus reached Calvary which is now encompassed by the massive Church of the Holy Sepulcher. We enter this iconic Christian landmark and see many chapels and Biblical sites like the Stone of Unction and Christ’s burial tomb. Before leaving the Old City we take a lunch break and then make our way through the Old City bazaar. Driving through the stunning desert scenery we can see Jericho in the distance. The tour pauses briefly at the sign indicating “sea level” then we descend lower and lower until we reach the Dead Sea at 430m below sea level.The tour takes you to a Dead Sea beaches where you can relax on the sand, soak up the sun and float in the water. The Dead Sea environment is known to have natural health and beauty benefits. While here you can lather your skin with mineral-rich Dead Sea mud. Get a classic photo floating in the Dead Sea where the high saline content gives you natural buoyancy! After completely unwinding and feeling rejuvenated the tour comes to an end.

This Jerusalem half-day tour begins on Mt. Scopus where we enjoy breathtaking views of the Jerusalem skyline. From this elevated position, we see across the walls of the Old City to Temple Mount, the site of the sacred Temple until its destruction in 70 AD. On the slopes of Mt. Scopus, we pass a 3,000-year-old Jewish cemetery; the Garden of Gethsemane, and the Church of All Nations. We drive past large ancient Jewish tombs of the biblical Kidron Valley.The tour takes you through the Zion Gate, one of several gates in the Ottoman-era Old City walls. We reach the picturesque Jewish Quarter where a 1,500-year-old Byzantine street, the Cardo has been excavated. The tour stops at the iconic Western Wall, the most sacred Jewish landmark in the world. This section of wall is only a small part of the outer retaining walls that once surrounded the Second Holy Jewish Temple on Temple Mount. In 70 AD the Romans destroyed the Temple and only this section (and its continuation below ground) has survived. You’ll have time to place a prayer note in the crevices of the wall.We continue on our half day Jerusalem tour and join up with the Via Dolorosa at the 5th Station of the Cross. We retrace the path Jesus took bearing his cross from his judgment to his crucifixion at Calvary. The Way of Sorrow culminates at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre which encompasses the final Stations of the Cross where Jesus died on the cross and was placed in a burial tomb. Today the ornate 4th-century church is shared by several Christian denominations and holds more than 30 chapels. To end this Jerusalem half-day tour we walk through the traditional Old City bazaar where you can enjoy the colorful character of a Middle Eastern market.

This Jericho, Jordan River and Dead Sea tour operates from October to May and takes visitors to a number of stunning locations. All highlights mentioned here are visited on this tour but not necessarily in this order. The Jericho, Jordan River and Dead Sea Tour visits the city of Jericho, one of the oldest cities in the world. Jericho features in the Bible where Joshua and his troops caused the city walls to fall in the Battle of Jericho. In the Book of Luke Zacchaeus climbs a sycamore tree to see Jesus over the crowds that had come out to greet him as he entered Jericho. On this tour we visit the ancient sycamore tree that features in this Biblical story. While in Jericho the tour visits Elisha’s Spring. This spring supplied the city with fresh water over the course of thousands of years. Without the spring people would not have been able to survive in this harsh environment. Just 2 km from Jericho is the archaeological mound of Tel Jericho, the site of the original Jericho settlement. Archaeologists have uncovered 23 layers from previous settlements in Jericho dating back to 9000 BC. One of the most fascinating finds is a Neolithic watchtower dated c. 8000 BC. The tour continues to Mount of Temptation where the devil tried to tempt Jesus to forsake God. On the mount a Greek Orthodox monastery seems to defy gravity clinging precariously to the cliffs. You’ll get to go up to the top of the mount by cable car and take in the stunning views. This tour includes Qaser el Yahud, a site on the Jordan River where John baptized Jesus. At Qaser el Yahud the Jordan River has been made accessible to visitors who want to be baptized here. This is also where the Israelites may have crossed the Jordan into the Promised Land.To end off a perfect day the tour takes you to the Dead Sea. Here you can float in the water that is 8.5 times saltier than the ocean; lather your skin with mineral-rich Dead Sea mud and soak up the sun on the beach.

The main attraction of Caesarea is the Caesarea National Park. The ancient Roman history of this site is recorded by Roman historian Josephus Flavius. On the edge of the national park is the massive Roman Theater. This classic Roman theater is perfectly preserved. It has the typical semi-circular shape with seating on staggered stone steps facing the stage and sea beyond. In Roman times the theater would have been important in entertaining the many foreigners and sailors who came into port. The theater was originally built under Emperor Vespasian and later expanded by King Herod.Herod’s Reef Palace Several pillars remain from the inner courtyard of King Herod’s Reef Palace. The opulent palace would have had two stories and was partly built on the marine reef jutting out onto the sea. Today parts of the palace can still be seen and parts are submerged beneath the sea. Experts differ in opinion as to whether this was Herod’s palace or a later construction. We can also see the remains of a swimming pool alongside a floor mosaic and ritual bath. Among the archaeological remains, there is a large hippodrome with reconstructed frescoes. Here the Romans would hold horse and chariot races. Throughout the park, there are large Roman columns, capitals, sculptures, gravestones and carved architectural features attesting to the importance and opulence of this former Roman city. Also at the site, we can see where the bathhouse, temples, storerooms and homes once stood. Of particular interest among the many archaeological findings was an inscription naming Pontius Pilate. This was the first recorded mention of Pilate’s name dated within Jesus's lifetime. Structures remaining from the Byzantine era include a villa with floor mosaics and the ruins of a Byzantine church. Remains dating back to the Crusader era include the reconstructed Crusader Gate, a large moat that encircled the Crusader fortress, a high defensive wall and arched entranceways.Want to visit Caesarea National Park? Join ourCaesarea, Acre and Rosh Hanikra Tour.

Masada is a dramatic rock outcrop rising out of the flat landscape of the Judean Desert in southern Israel. The rock mesa overlooks the Dead Sea just 20km away and is about 400m high with a flat rock plateau summit covering about 500m in an area with steep cliffs on every side. This isolated clifftop holds a special place in the region’s history and Jewish history because of two major events. Masada’s place in history and the invaluable archeological finds made here have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.Herod’s Palace Fortress at Masada Between 37 BC and 31 BC Herod the Great (73 BC-4 BC), the Rome-appointed King of Judea had a massive palace-fortress built on the top of this high, remote outcrop. He had the complex built as a retreat and refuge for himself in the event of a revolt. This incredible complex of structures included massive storerooms, guardhouses, water cisterns, the commandant’s office, watchtowers, a bathhouse, and elaborate palaces for the king.The Northern Palace is particularly impressive, built on the edge of the plateau on three descending terraces. The Western Palace is the largest structure on the summit covering 3700m². Today we can still see parts of the ancient mosaics and murals that decorated the bathhouse and palaces. Thanks to the remote location and dry climate much of the original fortress has survived.The Siege of MasadaThe second important event on Masada took place during the First Jewish-Roman War (66 BC-73 AD). A group of Jewish rebels desperate to preserve their freedom entrenched themselves on Masada’s plateau summit. They inhabited what remained of Herod’s abandoned fortress and took advantage of the excellent fortifications and inaccessible location to protect them from the Romans. The Jews of Masada became the last stronghold against the Romans. The Romans held Masada under siege and used all of their military strength to try and scale the cliffs.In the end, the Romans built an earthen ramp on the western flank of Masada so that they could bring their battering rams and military machines closer to the fortified walls that surrounded the summit.Once they eventually managed to breach the fortified walls the Romans found that all the 960 Jews had taken their own lives rather than be captured, tortured, enslaved, or forced to forsake their religion. Masada became a symbol of heroism, martyrdom, selfless courage, Jewish determination, and commitment to the freedom of the Jewish nation.Visiting MasadaToday visitors can enjoy a visitor center at the base of Masada where there is a small museum, food court, and souvenir store. From there you can take a cable car to the summit. Alternatively, it is possible to hike the “Snake Path” - a twisting and turning path up the face of Masada. At the top of Masada, visitors can tour the many excavated structures of Herod’s fortress and enjoy the breathtaking views across the desert and the Dead Sea.Want to see the amazing view from Masada? Join ourMasada and Dead Sea Tour.

Kalia Beach is located at the southernmost end of the Dead Sea’s eastern shore. The beach has been made easily accessible with stairs, ramps and walkways. There are useful facilities to make your stay as enjoyable as possible.Kalia Beach – an Eco-Friendly BeachKalia is an eco-friendly beach where environmental awareness is actively encouraged. This is done by providing special beach ashtrays; recycle bins; solar energy is used for heating the showers and glass bottled drinks are sold at the kiosk and visitors are encouraged to return them for a deposit when they have finished.Kalia Beach FacilitiesThere is an entrance fee of 54 ILS for Kalia Beach but this means you have the convenience of the facilities. The entrance fee allows you free use of the showers, toilets, WiFi, beach chairs, and umbrellas. There is a lifeguard on duty and the beach is accessible to those with physical challenges. There are lockers where you can store your belongings for about 15 ILS and towels to rent. Kalia Beach has the Lowest Bar in the World (at the lowest point on Earth). The bar serves food and drinks on the water’s edge. For a more substantial meal, there is a restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. At the beach, there is a gift shop and cosmetics center that sells Dead Sea products, useful beach items, and souvenirs. There is Dead Sea mud available to smother over your skin. The mud is a natural skin mask that feeds your skin vital minerals and extracts toxins. It is possible to camp on Kalia Beach for approximately 85 ILS per person per 24 hours.If arriving with an organized tour your entrance will be included in your tour price and you will be taken all the way to the entrance. If arriving by public transport you can call Kalia Beach and arrange for a shuttle to pick you up from the public bus stop or you could walk 10 minutes to the beach. Taking a taxi from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv would be very expensive. The beach is open daily from 8:00 to 19:00 (18:00 in winter) except for Yom Kippur. Want to float in the lowest place on earth? Join our Dead Sea Tour.

Plan Your VisitLocation: 10 Mifratz Shlomo Street, Old JaffaOpen Times: Most shows are presented at 20:30 in the evening.Prices: Performance tickets range in price from approximately 90 ILS to 115 ILSAverage Visit Duration: 1-2 hours. Pro Tip: It is worth stopping to see the building’s exterior even if you are not attending a performance. It is also a great place to get sea views.Special Events:The Festival of Arab Hebrew Women - MarchTheatronetto - Passover (April)Festival of Contemporary Arab Culture - MayJaffa Fest - June-JulyInternational Festival of Children’s Theater (Jaffa Children’s Festival) - SukkotRelevant Tours:Many Tel Aviv tours in the Jaffa region will take you to see the theater building’s facade.The Jaffa Theater, also called The Arab Hebrew Theater of Jaffa is made up of two theater companies that operate independently and together - The Local Theater (Teatron Hamekomi) and The Al Saraya Arab Theater. The theater’s Hebrew and Arabic artists work to promote cross-cultural understanding through the arts. The theater holds community and educational programs as well as local outreach programs. It often presents performances that have a social message, or local significance and focus on national identity, tolerance, and social issues.Theater buff? You'll enjoy the cultural scene in Jaffa! Jaffa Theater has received numerous awards and is a haven for intercultural relations in Jaffa, a city shared by Jewish, Muslim, and Christian residents. The theater is located in a stunning historical building in Old Jaffa with great views along the coast and Tel Aviv’s seafront promenade.What Makes the Jaffa Theater Special?This unique theater brings together performing artists and audiences from diverse cultural backgrounds. It is unique among Israeli theaters for its social and political mission and the language used on stage. In the Jaffa Arab-Hebrew Theater, all of the focus is on creating a multi-cultural environment that exists harmoniously. Whether it is through the productions it presents in Arabic and Hebrew, or through the projects that the theater runs with multi-ethnic communities in Jaffa and across the country. This theater offers a platform for interaction and collaboration between people from different religions, races, and cultures.The Jaffa Theater BuildingIt's not just the type of performances and the diverse cultures of the theatrical team that make Jaffa Theater unique. The building that houses the theater is an attraction in itself. The Jaffa Theater building (Image source: Amikamraz CC BY-SA 4.0)Saraya House was built in the 18th century on the remains of a Crusader structure. It served as a grand palace for the Ottoman governor, Mohammed Agha. It was also used for various government offices, a prison, and a post office. In 1897 the Ottoman government offices were moved to a new building.Once the government offices were gone, the Old Saraya building was used as a soap factory by the local Chrisitan Demiani family and they produced soap made from olive oil. The building continued to house various factories until 1961 when it was repurposed into a museum and became home to the Jaffa Museum of Antiquities.Pro Tip: A short walk from the Jaffa Clock Tower past the New Saraya Building, the Greek Orthodox Market, and the Mahmoudiya Mosque to the Old Saraya Building is a great way to enter Old Jaffa.The stone building’s facade has beautiful arches and historic window metalwork. The municipality offered Jaffa Theater the building as a permanent home and extensive renovations were made to create a performance space. Today the museum continues to share the building with the Jaffa Theater.Pro Tip: Jaffa Theater is in the Old Saraya Building. There is also a New Saraya Building built towards the end of the 19th century and later restored. It stands in front of Jaffa’s clock tower and is recognizable by its four tall columns.What is the History of the Jaffa Theater?The theater was founded by Ezraty in 1999. He was inspired by a film called Mephisto which tells the story of an actor who collaborates with the Nazis and sacrifices his moral principles for success. Ezraty wanted a theater where his belief in tolerance and acceptance between the Jews and Arabs who share the country could flourish. The lovely arches of the Jaffa Theater (Image source: Yiftah-s CC BY-SA 3.0)He had been involved in political and social movements but was searching for a way to combine his strong feelings about social issues with his profession as a theatrical director. He believed the theater could be an important and effective tool for teaching about injustice and social issues.Pro Tip: During Israel's summer of 2024 the Jaffa Theater will celebrate its 25th anniversary with special performances.What Can You See and Do at the Jaffa Theater?The productions presented at the theater range from classics such as Shakespeare, Waiting for Godot (given a local twist) to original productions such as Oum Kalthoum about the famous Egyptian singer, and a new adaptation to Hanoch Levin’s Shampoo Queen, performed by a cast of Jewish and Arabic actors. The theater presents award-winning and internationally acclaimed work. No doubt whatever show you see will be surprising, and innovative, and give a new take on the subject matter. You can also see a display of artwork by local artists in the theater foyer. There are discounts for seniors, students, and soldiers. There are several places reserved for audience members in wheelchairs.A promotional image from the show Manegalian Passport, one of the favorites in the theater (Image source: The official Jaffa Theater website)The Jaffa Theater is housed in the same building as the Arab Al Saraya Theater Company and the Jaffa Museum; Performances are in Hebrew and Arabic and some productions have English subtitles. Tickets are bought online on the theater's website and most productions are on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays. The theater also offers educational programs, workshops, art exhibitions, literary evenings, and musical performances.Pro Tip: Don’t rush out the door when the show ends, as the actors and directors regularly host discussions with the audience following the show.

Plan Your VisitLocation: 8 Avraham Stern Street,Florentin, Tel Aviv.Open Times: Sunday to Thursday 08:00-16:00, Fridays by prior arrangement, Saturdays closed.Prices: Adults 20 ILS, children, students, seniors 15 ILSAverage Visit Duration: 1 hour.Special Events: Entrance is free on Israeli Independence Day, usually in May or April.Relevant Tours: Tours can be prearranged on request, just ask your guide upon taking private Tel Aviv tours.Unless you know a bit about Israel’s history, the name of this museum might seem strange! Lehi is actually an acronym of the Hebrew“Lohamei Herut Yisrael” or in English “Fighters for the Freedom of Israel”. Lehi was an underground Jewish paramilitary organization that fought for an independent Jewish state during the period of British rule of Palestine.The Lehi Museum house in Florentin (Image source: Nadav Barkai CC BY 2.5)The museum was created in honor of the Lehi resistance fighters who lost their lives in the struggle to create a home for the Jewish People. The museum is located in the heart of Tel Aviv’s trendy Florentin neighborhood, in the house where Lehi founder and commander Avraham (Yair) Stern was murdered by the British secret police. The building is also known as Beit Yair (Yair House) in Stern’s honor.What is the History of Lehi?The Jewish underground movement Lehi, also known as the Stern Gang, emerged during the tumultuous period of British Mandatory Palestine in the 1940s. Founded by Avraham Stern, Lehi aimed to resist British rule and fight for the establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine.The group vehemently opposed what they perceived as the British betrayal of Jewish aspirations, particularly in restricting Jewish immigration to Palestine during World War II. Lehi engaged in guerrilla warfare against both British authorities and Arab forces, carrying out attacks on military and civilian targets.Equipment used by Lehi operatives(Image source: The official Lehi Museum website)In 1944, they assassinated Lord Moyne, the British Minister of State in the Middle East. The group's tactics and extremist ideology, including collaboration with Nazi Germany against the common enemy of the British, generated controversy within the Jewish community.From 1944 to 1948, Lehi members were held by the British without trial at a detention camp near Jerusalem and were deported to internment camps in Africa. The British thought this would weaken the underground forces and encourage political submission. The fighters were released and returned to Israel a few months after the State of Israel was established.Despite their relatively small size compared to other Jewish paramilitary organizations, Lehi played a significant role in shaping the dynamics of pre-state Israel, eventually disbanding in 1948 when the state of Israel was established.Pro Tip: Several Jewish underground movements were instrumental in fighting for Israel’s independence. If you’re interested in this period of history you could visit the Etzel Museum or the Palmach Museum.What is there at the Lehi Museum?The museum is spread over two floors devoted to Lehi and its endeavors. On the top floor, you can see the original apartment where Yair Stern was shot. It has been recreated with original furnishings to look as it did in 1942. The rest of this floor of the museum tells the story of Avraham “Yair” Stern. The displays take visitors through the exciting life of this heroic underground fighter.A model of an internment camp used by the Mandate (Image source: The official Lehi Museum website)The apartment on the top floor of the building was rented by Tova and Moshe Savorai, and Stern lived there for the last few weeks of his life. In this one-room apartment, "Yair" hid from the British detectives who offered a monetary reward of one thousand Israeli pounds on his head.On February 12, 1942, British policemen arrived at the apartment and after a short search found "Yair" hiding in a closet and called the chief of the Bureau, Geoffrey Morton, who shot him to death while his hands were tied. For the best understanding of the exhibits, start on the top floor and work your way down.The daring escape performed by Lehi operatives is displayed in the Museum (Image source: The official Lehi Museum website)On the other floor of the museum, there is an exhibit of Lehi’s history in chronological order. On display are records with descriptions of battles and operations. There are excellent models for each of the operations.Learn about the trials of Lehi fighters by the British, and the detention camps in Israel and Africa, where Lehi fighters were held. There is a display of weapons, printed propaganda material, and artifacts used in their intelligence operations.Pro Tip: Did you know that future Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir was one of Lehi’s three key members?The museum also hosts changing exhibitions and special events are held here with regular lectures by former Lehi fighters. This floor is home to a library and archives. There is also a commemorative hall honoring the fallen fighters of Lehi and information on other Jewish underground movements at the time.

Plan Your VisitLocation: Etzel House: 2 Goldman Street in Charles Clore Park. Jabotinsky House: 38 King George St, Tel Aviv-Jaffa. On Waze “Etzel Museum” will offer you the choice of both locations.Open Times: Sunday to Thursday 08:00-16:00 Visits must be arranged in advance via the museum website.Prices: Pay 20 ILS for adults, and 15 ILS for children (5-18yrs) and seniors for each of the museum sites. Pro Tip: Entrance to the museum is free on Independence Day.Average Visit Duration: 1-2 hours.Popular Times: Visit Etzel House towards the end of the day and hang around to see the sunset over the sea.Special Events: Independence DayRelevant Tours:Private Tel Aviv tours can take you there, upon request. The museum offers of its own, and if you’re interested in how the small but strong nation of Israel was established and the heroes behind the fight for Israel’s independence then put the Etzel Museum on your itinerary! The museum has two locations, both cover aspects of the Etzel organization, and both are worth visiting.Etzel is an acronym for “Irgun Tzvai Leumi” in Hebrew or National Military Organization. Etzel was an underground paramilitary Zionist resistance organization that was active up until the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. They are often called simply “Irgun” or “organization”.The Jabotinsky House. home of the Etzel Museum (Image source: Zeem Zamir CC BY 2.5, and exhibits from the museum)The group fought both the British in Israel for independence, and the local Arabs for their right to exist in Eretz Israel. So this is a history museum with a specific focus, one which will surprise you and give you a better understanding of the struggle and experiences of early Israelis.The Etzel Museum is one of the best military history museums in Israel; it was designed to bring the subject matter to life with recreated scenes, historic photographs, sound effects, and original recordings from that period. There are authentic artifacts, information boards, and short video clips. By the time you leave the Etzel Museum, you’ll have a clear picture of this historical period.What Was Etzel?Step back in time and imagine a period in history when there is no Jewish state, antisemitism is growing in Europe, and a new leader has just risen to power in Germany who intends to wipe out the Jewish People. The only hope for survival of the Jews is a country of their own, and the dream is to establish it in the Jewish ancestral homeland, Eretz Israel.The only problem was that the British had a mandate to rule Palestine and so any Jews wanting to settle in Israel had to do so as illegal immigrants. Young Jews arrived in Palestine with a dream of Jewish independence but they had to fight for it, and they did so by creating several resistance organizations. Etzel was one of those organizations, established in 1931 and determined to protect Jewish settlers in Israel from Arab attacks and fight to eliminate the British Mandate rule to pave the way to Israel’s independence.Fallen heroes of the Etzel (Image source:The official Jabotinsky House website)The organization existed for 17 years, during which time they carried out many dangerous missions. When Israel was established in 1948, Etzel members were integrated into the Israeli Defense Force. This period was when Etzel came out of the shadows and instead of running underground operations, transitioned into open military operations.When the country was attacked simultaneously by Syria, Lebanon, and Egypt, Etzel members fought side by side with other Jewish fighters. Etzel fighters were involved in one of the most decisive battles of the War of Independence, the liberation of Jaffa from Arab hands.The Two Locations of the Etzel MuseumThe Etzel Museum has two locations, the Etzel House on the edge of the sea nearJaffa, covers mainly the liberation of Jaffa while the branch of the museum in Jabotinsky House covers the organization, its history, operations, and leaders.Etzel House (or Beit Gidi)Location: On the seashore, in Charles Clore Park just before you enter Jaffa.This campus of the Etzel Museum is appropriately located near the entrance to Jaffa, as the exhibits cover mainly the campaign to liberate Jaffa during the War of Independence in 1948. Visitors follow a winding path through chronologically arranged exhibits starting in 1947 with the decision by the United Nations to propose a partition plan dividing Palestine between the Jews and the Arabs.Etzel House, Beit GidiThere are maps showing the country’s boundaries at the time and the proposed partition plan borders. Exhibits highlight the various battles and the training that Etzel fighters undertook. The main part of the museum is dedicated to the battle for Jaffa. There is an audio-visual recreation of the battle, maps, weapons, and photographs from the fight to liberate Jaffa, one of the most decisive and important battles of the War of Independence.Other sections tell the story of the shofar that was confiscated by a British policeman and eventually made its way back to Jewish hands.Inside the Etzel House (Image source: Bukvoed CC BY 3.0)Also, the Battle of the Jordan Guard is illustrated, showing how Jewish fighters stopped the advance of Syrian forces. But when ammunition ran out, the Jews were forced to surrender, some losing their lives and others wounded or taken into captivity.Finally, visitors can learn about Altalana, a weapons ship that departed from France and made its way to the shores of Israel, only to sink off the coast of Tel Aviv.Etzel House - The BuildingYou can’t miss this unusual building standing on a grassy slope along the seaside promenade. The striking building is a glass rectangle built above the ruins of a Jewish home built in 1900 at a time when Palestine was ruled by the Turkish Ottomans. It was once part of the Menashiya neighborhood that was destroyed in the War of Independence of 1948. Etzel House is also known as Beit Gidi (Gidi House) in honor of one of Etzel’s leading officers, Amichai Paglin, codename Gidi, and 41 other Etzel fighters who fell in the battle of Jaffa in 1948.Jabotinsky HouseLocation: 38 King George Street, Tel Aviv.This museum is dedicated to Etzel’s commanders, fighters, and their actions. On display are authentic documents, photographs, press clippings, weapons, models, and films all related to Etzel’s activities in the 17 years of the organization’s existence.The Jabotinsky House building (Image source: Dr Avishai Teicher CC BY-SA 4.0)On the top floor is the Jabotinsky Institute where there are two audio-visual presentations highlighting the acts of Ze’ev Jabotinsky, the founder of Etzel, and the story of illegal Jewish immigration to Palestine under the British Mandate. Learn about the ships that carried Jews from war-torn Europe to the Promised Land thanks to the pre-state Zionist organizations. On the entrance level, the exhibits focus on the history of Etzel, its roots, and the establishment of Beitar (a revolutionist Zionist youth movement) and the operations carried out in that period.Visitors in the Etzel Museum (Image source: The official Jabotinsky House website)Visitors descend to the ground floor to learn about the life of the underground Jewish Zionist organizations and the operations they carried out.Among these operations was the bombing of the King David Hotel in Jerusalem when it was being used as the British headquarters. Also, the Night of the Aeronauts, when the organization’s fighters attacked the Ramat Gan police station. Learn about the break-in of the Acre prison and the attack on the Ramallah radio station.Special operation reconstruction in the Etzel Museum (Image source: The official Jabotinsky House website)There is a section dedicated to the immigrants and Etzel fighters who lost their lives in the struggle. Among the fascinating exhibits are forged passports used by escapees from a detention camp in Africa, a British army whip, a radio used to broadcast secret messages, and a bomb made to look like a bottle of milk.Pro Tip: There were several underground Jewish organizations that each played a role in the struggle for the establishment of Israel. Other organizations included Haganah, Palmach, and Lehi as well as Etzel. If pre-state Jewish organizations in Israel interest you then you might like to visit the Palmach Museum or the Haganah Museum.

Plan Your VisitLocation:Aluf Kalman Magen St 3, Tel Aviv-YafoOpen Times:Sunday to Wednesday 10:00-22:00. Thursday 10:00-23:00, Friday 09:00-15:00/16:00, Saturday 10:00-22:00. The pedestrian park area of the center is open 24/7, and the retail stores generally close at 20:00.Prices: It depends on what you buy, but entrance is free.Average Visit Duration:1 hour.Popular Times:Lunch (1-2 pm) and dinner (6-8 pm) time are the most popular times at Sarona Market when the workers from surrounding office blocks stop by to get something to eat. You might prefer to come a little earlier or later to avoid the crowds.Special Events: Being one of the best markets in Tel Aviv, the place regularly holds special foodie events, and often features one particular food. Usually, the special events are held from Wednesday to Friday or Saturday, such as the "Kibbutz Comes to the City" event held in January where Kibbutz farmers were given a platform to sell their goods. There have also been “All-Israeli Food Festivals” “Hummus Festival” and a “Chocolate festival”. Each puts a spotlight on a specific product and there are tastings, demonstrations, and special deals.Relevant Tours:foodies usually take a Tel Aviv food tour in Carmel Market, but there are also food tours in Sarona; Dedicated, true foodies tend to start with Carmel and finish with Sarona.Looking for a lively, dynamic, trendy place to hang out with locals, to try gourmet dishes, and local specialties while enjoying a drink, then Sarona Market is the place for you. This is Israel’s largest indoor food market, offering a unique experience for foodies. The entrance to Sarona Market, Tel Aviv (Image source: Dr. Avishai Teicher CC BY 2.5)The market is located within the Sarona Center complex. It gets its inspiration from the food halls of Europe and offers a warm welcoming atmosphere with dozens of food stalls and booths selling a wide range of Israeli street food, organic produce, and homemade food items. The products are of extremely high quality, often specialty items.Sarona CenterDo you want to relax in a pleasant open space with greenery and water features right in the heart of bustling Tel Aviv? Then visit Sarona. This peaceful haven in the busy city was created from the restored structures of a 150-year-old German Christian Templer settlement. The historic buildings have been restored and now hold trendy restaurants and cool cafes, as well as galleries, and boutique stores. The buildings are spread out over a pedestrian-only area where there are benches, lawns, playgrounds, and ponds.What is the History of Sarona?Sarona has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Originally established as a German Templer colony in 1871, the area was named Sarona after a blooming valley mentioned in the Bible. The Sarona Market area from the nearby park (Image source: FeldBum CC BY-SA 4.0)The Templars, a German Christian sect, were inspired to settle in the Holy Land by biblical prophecies. They believed that repopulating the land of the Bible would hasten the second coming of Christ. They built a thriving agricultural community with European-style architecture and advanced farming techniques in Tel Aviv (and at other locations in the country). Sarona became known for its vineyards, orchards, and utopia-style community.Pro Tip: You can see historic Templer settlements in places likeJerusalemand Haifa’s German Colony at the foot of the Baha’i Gardens.Sarona Market in 1923In the early 20th century, political changes led to the decline of the Templer community in the Holy Land. During World War II, the British who controlled the region and were at war with Germany, had the German Templers imprisoned, or confined in internment camps as enemy aliens. By the time the State of Israel was established in 1948 only a few Templers remained, and the Sarona area underwent various transformations.In the 2000s, Sarona was revitalized with the construction of Sarona Center, a mixed-use development featuring a blend of modern skyscrapers and preserved Templer buildings. Opened in 2015, Sarona Center has become a vibrant commercial and cultural hub, housing offices, shops, restaurants, and public spaces, seamlessly blending the area's historical charm with contemporary urban life. It retains the charm of the early Temper settlement.Eating at Sarona MarketIt's a good idea to visit Sarona even if you don’t plan to eat, but if you’re a foodie, or need somewhere to stop for lunch then this place is perfect. Take the opportunity to try some local culinary delights. The market is home to some of Israel’s top chefs who offer the latest culinary creations that blend Israeli food with food concepts from around the world. Here you can taste new food concepts that have only just been invented. Among the star chefs showcased at the market, there is Assaf Granit (Michelin star holder), Eyal Shani, and Rachel Ben Elul.Food stands in the Sarona Market (Image source: Dr. Avishai Teicher CC BY-SA 4.0)Take a seat at one of the communal tables where you can chat with locals while you try the different dishes. Don’t limit yourself to one dish, take a few. And don’t forget to wash it down with some locally produced wine or beer.Pro Tip: There is very little street parking near Sarona, but there are plenty of paid parking lots such as Sarona Parking at 5 Eliav Road. There are also bike-share stations at Sarona so you could rent a bike or electric scooter.Star Dishes to Try at Sarona MarketMeat Bar’s hamburgersHummus by the Magician (HaKosem)Eyal Shani’s pita breadRamen by Chef Yuval Ben NeriahA juicy sandwich by Rachel Ben ElulBrioche-challah sandwiches by GG KubalaSample beers at the Beer GardenSpecialty cheese, olive oil, pickles, halva, and spicesPro Tip: The closest train station to Sarona is HaShalom Station located in the Azrieli Center a short walk from Sarona.What Can You Do at Sarona Center?Eat!The first thing you can do is eat! There is no shortage of restaurant and cafe options. Many of the Sarona eateries are not kosher either because they serve non-kosher food or because they are open on Saturdays.Enjoy eating at the market! (Image source: Dr. Avishai Teicher CC BY 2.5) However, some have the new “Hashkaha” certificate which means the food is supervised by rabbis, it is kosher, and they don’t open on Saturdays, but they are not certified by Israel’s Rabbinate.ShopAmong the many boutiques at Sarona Center are fashion stores, footwear stores, accessory shops, and cosmetic stores. Shop for perfume, leather goods, souvenirs, digital goods, designer home decor products, or toys. Pamper yourself at the L’Occitane store and spa, and visit the exclusive Tasting Room wine bar. Several jewelry designers have stores in Sarona, as well as leading brand sportswear stores. Sarona is home to one of the best ice cream stores in the city, Anita. At the unique Draydel House, you can see a display of dreidels (sevivons or spinning tops). You can also find stores dedicated to specialty food such as coffee, or spices.Fashion Shopping in Sarona? good idea!Pro Tip: The Whiskey Bar and Museum at Sarona is located below ground in a historic Templer tunnel once used to store wine barrels, then as a British prison, and later the Israelis used the tunnel to rebuild captured British airplanes. Legend has it the tunnel was also used by the Mossad, Israel’s intelligence agency. The brick and stone walls are lined with thousands of varieties of whiskey, and there is a modern open kitchen serving meat dishes to complement the drinks.RelaxTake a stroll or sit down outside in the sun in the pedestrian-only area of Sarona. You’ll be surrounded by tranquil ponds and trees, and often you’ll get free entertainment from passing buskers.Sarona Visitors CenterOne of the historic Templer buildings holds the Sarona Visitors Center. Here you can get information about upcoming events in Sarona, and see exhibits highlighting the landmark moments in Sarona’s history. The center sells tickets for a pre-arranged tour of the underground Sarona tunnels.

Plan Your VisitLocation: 146 Abba Hillel Silver Street, Ramat Gan Pro Tip: Park in the Ramat Gan Stadium parking lot, about 700m from the museum, or in the parking lot at 22 Tselah Street.Open Times: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 10:00-14:00, Tuesday 16:00-20:00, Thursday 10:00-14:00 and 16:00-20:00, Sunday closed.Prices: Adults 40 ILS, seniors, 20 ILS, physically challenged visitors, accompanying caregivers, students, military, Ramat Gan residents,25 ILS, children under 18yrs free.Average Visit Duration: 1 hour.Special Events: The museum offers a wide range of activities, lectures, children’s shows, art classes, workshops, and tours that are announced on the museum website.Relevant Tours: Tours of specific exhibitions are offered on the museum website. If you take a private Tel Aviv Tour, you could ask your guide to visit this museum - it's not far from central Tel Aviv.Lovers of contemporary art who want to see some of the top Israeli art in Tel Avivshould visit this unique museum. The art of display covers a broad range of styles and use of diverse materials. The Ramat Gan Museum of Israeli Art (Image source: Alex Ostrovski CC BY-SA 4.0)See contemporary sculptures, paintings, photography, installations, multimedia, video art, and even performance art. Visitors are encouraged to get involved and participate in one of the many workshops or activities on offer.The exhibitions at the Ramat Gan Museum of Israeli Art are focused on topical issues that affect Israeli society and culture as well as universal themes. There are also occasional historical tributes and research exhibitions.Inside the Museum (Image source: Talmoryair CC BY 3.0)This is not art for art’s sake, it is a museum that prompts discussion of important current issues. It offers a space where multicultural dialogue can take place and where equality and diversity of cultures and identities are embraced. With over 2,500 works in the museum collection, there are pieces by veteran artists and the latest up-and-coming contemporary Israeli artists.Pro Tip: Ramat Gan has gradually become a city of museums, boasting several outstanding attractions for art lovers such as the Museum of Far Eastern Art, and the Museum of Russian Art.Ramat Gan Museum of Israeli Art BuildingThe museum is housed in a former tile factory built in 1936. The structure has a unique shape that was determined by the unusual shape of the land that is wedged between two roads. The building was built to fit the land, creating a triangular shape in a streamlined modern style that was typical of buildings in Israel during the 1930s.SCREAM by Menashe Kadishman, one of the artworks displayed in the museum (Image source: Yair Talmor CC BY 3.0)After the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, industrial businesses and factories moved out of the city center to make way for Ramat Gan’s rapid growth. The abandoned factory building was renovated, restored, and reopened in 1987 as the new Museum of Israeli Art. It retains most of its original features. With the creation of artist studios in the area, it became Ramat Gan’s Artists’ Quarter.In 2017, the building was remodeled, expanding the exhibition space, and emphasizing some of the factory building’s original features such as the horizontal lines, flat roof, and ribbon windows.Pro Tip: The Ramat Gan Museum of Israeli Art is located in the Hanan Rosen Museum Campus which houses the historical art studios (Artists’ Pavilions) of artists Nathan Rapoport, Joseph Constant, Aharon Kahana, and Kosso Eloul.Kiryat Omanut (Artists Quarter)Adjoining the Museum of Israeli Art is a complex comprising three former artists' homes - Kahana, Rapoport, and Constant. Their homes have been turned into museums. The Constant House is now a sculpture gallery, Kahana House is a ceramics studio, and Rapoport House holds Nathan Rapoport’s sculpture work.Pro Tip: After visiting the Museum of Israeli Art you could stop at the artists’ houses, and also cross the road to enjoy the beautiful Yarkon Park.

Why do people - both locals and tourists - enjoy spending time at city squares? Well, there are many reasons, and not just because they’re often very beautiful. Public squares have all kinds of benefits - historically they were used as marketplaces, bringing people together democratically.Today, they still host gatherings, such as the huge2023 protests but they’re also places where people socialize, sit in cafesfor an Israeli breakfast, enjoy musical performances and sometimes even live theatre.Squares can also be very beautiful, with ponds and fountains adding to the appeal. They offer fantastic ecological benefits with trees and plants that give out oxygen and also provide shade and shelter. Often they’re named after famous writers, politicians or great historical figures, which adds to the cultural element.Just like London, New York, and Paris, Israel's liveliest city has its own architectural squares (‘kikarim’), which are bound to delight travelers. Here’s our guide to five Tel Aviv Squares that you really must see, when you’re visiting this young and dynamic city:1. Habima SquareThe Habima Square is new, modern, and attractive - a wide open space, that is popular as a meeting place and a hang-out for friends. Habima Square gardenDeliberately minimalist in design, it has a sunken garden, water basins, and flower beds which come to life in the spring. There’s a lot of local flora in this square too - cacti, almond and sycamore trees, and gorgeous-smelling lavender bushesWhat’s going on in the area?The Habima square and surrounding area are filled with Tel-Avivi cultural treasures - there’s the Habima theatre itself (recently redesigned, with glass windows which give you a fantastic view inside at night) and the Mann auditorium, where the Israeli Philharmonic regularly performs and a short walk away is the Israeli Opera House.Habima Theater at night (Image source: Oren Rozen CC BY-SA 3.0)This square also sits at the top of beautiful Rothschild Boulevard, one of Tel Aviv’s most famous and lovely streets - perfect for strolling, admiring Bauhaus architecture or simply sitting in a sidewalk cafe and people-watching. The area has some of Tel Aviv'stop 10 restaurants and cool pubstoo, so it’s the perfect place to go for drinks and dinner.2. Dizengoff SquarePerhaps the most iconic square in Tel Aviv, Dizengoff Square (‘Kikar Dizengoff’) was always popular with locals and tourists but since its major revamp, it’s even more of a ‘go to’ spot. Dizengoff Square (Image source: Ovedc CC BY-SA 4.0)In the heart of the city’s beloved Dizengoff Street, on the square, sits the famous ‘Fire and Water’ fountain designed by Yaakov Agam, and all around are trees (great for summer shade) and chairs (for free) where you can sit and admire the view.What’s going on in the area?Everything you can possibly imagine! Dizengoff Street is home to endless cafes and bars, and if you’re looking for a Tel Aviv fashion shopping experience, with its clothing boutiques, jewelry studios, Bauhaus center, and iconic shopping mall, this is the street for you.The square area is great for shoppingDirectly on the square, you’ll see the Cinema Hotel, a wonderfully-restored Bauhaus building which today is a boutique hotel but once was a popular cinema (walk inside and see a projector from the 1950s on show!) It’s also not too far from the famousCarmel Market, which is a must-visit for foodies.And if you don’t have dinner plans, try one of many eateries near to the square - from La Shuk restaurant for upscale Mediterranean fare to amazing falafel at street food hangout ‘Ha Kosem’ you can’t go wrong.3. Rabin SquareRabin Square is also famous within Tel Aviv - not just as a square where protests and celebrations regularly take place but also as the place where Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated in November 1995.The main sculpture in the canter of Rabin Square (Image source: Lishay Shechter) Formerly known as The Square of the Kings of Israel, its name was changed afterward to commemorate this tragic event. On the other hand, if you want to see a true Israeli celebration, head for Rabin Square every time a local soccer or basketball group wins the city championship, or when an Israeli athlete wins an Olympic medal - this is the place Tel-Avivians go to celebrate.What’s going on in the area?This is not a particularly tourist area, but a good place to really ‘feel’ what the city is like. In one corner of the square, look for the sculpture of Rabin, close to the spot where he was shot three times (you’ll see memorial candles flickering, lit by passers-by, commemorating his life). There’s also a pretty lily pond where you can sit and look out at the people on the street.The Rabin Square memorial corner (Image source: Christian Engeln)Fifteen minutes south by foot, you’ll find the Cinematheque (if you’re a lover of independent movies) and fifteen minutes west will find youGordon Beach, which is perfect for sunbathing, cycling, and strolling on the boardwalk. Mass protest in Rabin Square (Image source: Itayba)There are plenty of restaurants and cafes on the main street - and those who yearn for a Tel Aviv shopping spree can visit the nearby Gan Ha’ir center, full of chic boutiques.4. Kikar KedumimIn English, Kikar Kedumim means ‘The Square of Ancient Times’ and it’s aptly named because this spot is in the heart of Jaffa, an ancient and magical port city that dates back to Biblical times and is a must-visit spot for anyone visiting Israel (especially those who like their Instagram and want to capture the perfect shot).Kdumim Square The central landmark on this square is St. Peter’s Church, built by the Spanish in 1888 for the Franciscan brotherhood - and prepared to be bowled over by its ‘Cathedral-style’ interior.What’s going on in the area?Jaffa is truly magical and almost impossible to visit and not fall in love. Within easy walking distance of Kikar Kedumim, you have the famous Jaffa Flea Market (‘Shuk ha Pishpeshim) which is the perfect place to hunt for second-hand, retro, and vintage items, and pick up souvenirs from Israel, before enjoying a coffee and bite to eat in one of the numerous local cafes and bars that surround it.The Kdumin Square area (Image source: Gady Munz Pikiwiki Israel CC BY 2.5)Jaffa’s also home to a beautiful Artist’s Quarter (with tiny, winding streets) where you can wander for hours, popping into galleries and studios, and also a fine harbor, perfect for strolling. In nearby Abrasha Park, don’t forget to stop at the Wishing Bridge and then take a look at the famous stone statue ‘The Gates of Faith’. And if you really want to understand the history and culture of the area, consider taking an Old Jaffa walking tour, where a local guide can fill you in on the legends and lore of this extraordinary place.5. Atarim SquareDesigned by the architect Yaaokv Rechter, Atarim Square sits at the end of Ben Gurion Boulevard, close to Gordon Beach. Constantly dividing opinion in terms of its aesthetics, it was built in the 1970s in a brutalist style (then considered very fashionable in architectural circles) and boasted - amongst other things - restaurants, stores, and a glass rotunda.The Atarim Square area (Image source:Michael Yakovson)Today, it’s far less fashionable but Kikar Atarim still offers outstanding views of the Mediterranean. Although it’s more empty, for anyone interested in design, it’s well worth a visit. In any event, the municipality is considering development plans in which case, try to see it before it’s gone! There’s also the Ben Gurion House nearby, which is a wonderful chance to see the home of Israel’s first Prime Minister (and it’s been kept just as he used it, back in the 1950s).What’s going on in the area?One of the things Tel Aviv is most famous for is its beaches - white sand, clear blue water, a fabulous promenade and cafes and restaurants not just along it but on the sand too. Walk south and you’ll hit Gordon and Frishman beaches - always popular, and full of people playing volleyball, and matkot (using two small paddles and a ball, it’s Israel’s most beloved sport).The Beach and Marina are just around the cornerWalk north along the beach and you’ll arrive at Hof Hilton, which is the city’s non-official ‘gay beach’ and also frequented by surfers on winter days when the waves are big. Keep walking and you’ll come to the Namal - the Tel Aviv Port - which is filled with restaurants, cafes, and stores as well as an indoor gourmet food marketand, on Fridays until 2pm, a delightful farmer’s market.Relax, drink something interesting, and enjoy yourself!If you’re visiting Israel and want to make the most of your time in the country, we also offer a wide range of day trips, which can take you to Jerusalem from Tel Avivand head south to discover Masada Fortress or take a day on the shore of the Dead Sea. If you'd like to see some marvelous green sceneries, consider taking a tour of northern Israel, and if you're feeling adventurous, we can even take you to visit the Lost City of Petra.Feel free to contact us by email or phone for more information and if you’re curious about Israel, take a look at our our blog which takes a deep dive into all things related to our country.

Tel Aviv is much more than justwhite sandy beachesand some of thebest clubs in Israel- it’s a vibrant, modern city that’s always changing, re-inventing itself - and that goes for its cultural scene too.Whether you choose to explore it independently or decide to take a guided Tel Aviv tour, you should remember that Tel Aviv's art museumsare world-class, and the city's full of art galleries, Israeli theaters, and cinemas that could keep you busy for days on end. From history and photography to design and performance, it’s up to you. So where should Tel Aviv culture lovers begin?Tel Aviv Museum of ArtWe have to start with the Tel Aviv Art Museum - it’s a must-visit for any culture vulture, since it’s home to a huge collection of both classical and contemporary art, showcasing works both by Israeli and international artists.From Chagall and Van Gogh to famous Israeli artists such as Kadishman and Gutman, lose yourself in beauty, and after you’ve finished, take a walk in their sculpture garden outside.The Tel Aviv Museum of ArtOnce you’ve filled your head with all this beauty, step outside and stroll down Rothschild Boulevard, home to some stunning renovated Bauhaus structures as well as some lovely cafes perfect for an Israeli breakfastand several dining spots that are among the best restaurants in Tel Aviv.This is Tel Aviv culture at its very best.Center for Contemporary ArtFounded 25 years ago, the Center for Contemporary Art has grown from one small room to a dynamic hub that includes two exhibition spaces and an auditorium at Tel Aviv’s Pollack Gallery and it’s one of Israel’s leading centers for experimental art.Do you like Modern Art? TheCenter for Contemporary Art will be right up your alley!Operating as a non-profit, its mission is to provide visitors with a window into unusual and avant-garde ideas. It hosts several large exhibitions each year, as well as guest lectures, screenings, and panels.Both local and international artists have showcased their work here and with all printed matter in Hebrew, English, and Arabic, you can see that the CCA takes the fostering of a cooperative spirit seriously.Nahum Gutman Museum of ArtDedicated to the artist Nahum Guttman who lived here, this small museum is located in the charming and picturesque neighborhood of Neve Tzedek. Gutman was born in Moldova but in 1905 his family moved to Ottoman Palestine.One of the creations displayed at the Nahum Gutman Museum of Art (Image source: Itzuvit CC BY-SA 3.0)The Nahum Gutman Museum documents his memories of Tel Aviv and Jaffa, providing a fascinating glimpse into the lives of both Jewsand Arabs living in the area at that time. Gutman pioneered a new and distinct ‘Israeli’ style, moving away from European influences and working in several mediums, including, oils, pen and ink, and mosaics.The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions (sculpture, watercolor, ceramics, photography) and it’s a wonderful place to pop into if you’re wandering the area.Rubin MuseumBorn in Romania, to a poor religious Jewish family, Reuben Ruben moved to Paris to study before emigrating to British Mandate Palestinein the early 1920s. He subsequently became a famous painter, drawing on Biblical themes and landscapes of the Holy Land in what today is known as the ‘Eretz Israel’ (‘Land of Israel’) style.One of Rubin's wonderful creations (Image source; The official Rubin Museum website)Today, you can visit his home for yourself - the Rubin Museum is on lovely Bialik Street, a stone’s throw from the Carmel Market. There, you’ll see many of his paintings, including early Tel Aviv vistas, Galilee landscapes, and landscapes and views of Jerusalem.You can really get a sense of the man, since the studio has been preserved, and if you come with kids, take them down to the basement where there’s a children’s workshop.Design Museum HolonJust twenty minutes outside Tel Aviv you’ll find Holon, a typical Israeli city that most tourists will never consider visiting. However, the fact that it’s home to the Design Museummeans that since 2016, when it opened, quite a few tourists have been making the journey there and what they find does not disappoint.The building itself is an artwork. The Design Museum on HolonActually, you could visit here just for the design of the building itself - this Ron Arad creation can be seen from a distance, with its sinuous steel ribbons in burnt orange providing the perfect Israeli Instagram opportunity.Inside, there are all kinds of exhibitions that change regularly, all devoted to contemporary design around the world, including students in design schoolsaround Israel.Habima TheaterHabima sits at the top of the beautiful Rothschild Boulevard and is considered to be a world-class theater. It first opened in 1945, before the establishment of the State of Israel, but as time passed it was rebuilt and today it showcases all kinds of plays.Whilst the theater companies usually perform in Hebrew, there are often simultaneous translations in English, so visitors don’t miss out!Enjoy local and international art!Habima (which actually means ‘The Stage’ in Hebrew) puts on plays and musicals produced both in Israel and across the world, many to critical acclaim.So whether you want to see an Israeli classic, a modern play from Europe or even a musical (both Mamma Mia and Les Mis have come here) you’re assured of a great night out. New Israeli OperaOpera buffs, this one’s for you! Founded in 1995, The New Israeli Opera has made a name for itself in Tel Aviv for its imaginative productions, ranging from classics like Mozart’s Don Giovanni and Puccini’s Tosca to original Israeli pieces such as Hanoch Levin’s ‘Opera’ and ‘Theodor’ - written by Yonatan Cnaanan, it’s subject is Theodor Herzl, widely regarded as the inspiration for the modern Israeli state.The Tel Aviv OperaProductions are sung in the original language (both Hebrew and English subtitles are provided) and with ravishing costumes, marvelously designed sets, and some very grandiose performances, you’re in for an unforgettable evening.Not too far fro there you'll find is the Sarona Complex, where you can grab a bite to eat, drink, or just wander around the beautifully renovated houses that were once home to the German Templars.Cameri TheaterThe Cameri, founded in 1944, is one of Israel’s leading theatres and, to date, has staged over 600 productions, in front of thousands of people. Based in central Tel Aviv, next to the Opera House, they put on around 15 new plays every year.Discover Israeli theaterRenowned for their directors and casts (several of whom were actually awarded the Israel Prize for contributions to their field) usually plays In are performed in Hebrew but there are occasional English-language productions. ‘The Wandering Israeli’ for example, has been a smash hit at the Cameri, hailed for its excellent cast, great music, comedy, and storytelling.It’s the perfect introduction for anyone visiting Israel for the first time and curious to know more about its people.Beit Lessin TheaterFounded in 1980 by director Yaakov Agmon, Beit Lessin Theatre produces and puts on a very diverse and high-quality repertoire of Israeli and international productions, performing seven days a week on three different stages.A show at the Beit Lessin Theater (Image source: Gadi Dagon CC BY-SA 3.0)Always emphasizing local talent and contemporary plays, the company premieres 10-12 new productions each season, of which around a third are world premieres.Beit Lessin has gained a reputation for putting on plays that really get talked about - whether they’ve just been written or are adaptations or modern classics and old-but-gold favorites. And the playwright Shmuel Hasfari’s trilogy (‘Kiddush’ ‘Chametz’ and ‘Shiva)’ in the mid1990s) really helped put them on the map.Tel Aviv CinemathequeIf you love independent movies, then head to Cinematheque, which is one of Tel Aviv’s best centers for small-budget productions, foreign films, and regular international film festivals. Opened In 1973, as a venue for fringe end arthouse films, its aim was certainly to provoke conversations about social and political issues of the day.The Tel Aviv Cinematheque (Image source: Vysotsky CC BY-SA 4.0)Today, it’s still doing that (with six screaming halls, all with state-of-the-art projection facilities) but if independent films aren’t your thing then don’t fear, because they still have plenty of evenings where blockbusters, cult classics, and smash-hit documentaries are put on.Rav Chen DizengoffBeloved by native English speakers (since all of its movies are in English, with Hebrew subtitles), Rav Chen sits in the heart of Tel Aviv, just opposite the famous Dizengoff Square. Part of a chain that operates across Israel, it boasts super comfortable chairs, six screens and plenty of concessions stands for popcorn lovers.Open seven days a week, and showing premieres and blockbusters, it's the perfect place to pass a rainy day in winter or a scorching hot afternoon in the Israeli summer…and because it's in the heart of Tel Aviv, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants around so, afterwards, you can people-watch, eat dinner or simply grab some Israeli street food.Lev DizengoffEstablished 27 years ago, and now with seven of its kind across Israel, Lev Dizengoff has gained a reputation for screening quality international films that are distinctly non-mainstream, but good enough to win international film awards.Tucked away on the third floor of the Dizengoff Center, the theatres are cozy but comfortable - it’s the antithesis of an IMAX experience!Dizengoff CenterFilms made by veteran directors such as Ang Lee (‘The Wedding Banquet’ and ‘Brokeback Mountain’) Pedro Almodovar (‘All About my Mother’ and ‘Talk to Her’) and Mike Leigh (‘Secrets and Lies ’and ‘Vera Drake’) are typical fare and a trip to the Lev (with its intimate feel) can often provoke nostalgia amongst Tel Avivis!If you’re traveling to Israel and want to make the most of your time, consider discovering the true charm of this country with our professionally guided tours. Besides Tel Aviv tours for every taste, we offer tours in holy Jerusalem, day trips to theDead Sea, Masada fortress, Ein Gedi, the crusader city ofAkko, Cesarea, the stunningGolan heights,and many more.Feel free to contact us by email or phone for more information and if you’re curious about Israel, read more about life here on our blog.

There’s nothing like walking the streets of a city to really get a feel for it - the people, the architecture, the green spaces, the culture, and the food scene. And if you’re visiting Israel, and looking for an urban experience where you can skip buses, taxis, and even bikes in favor of your feet, look no further than Tel Aviv.The magical alleys of JaffaThis lively, modern city ticks all the boxes for walking - it’s flat (unlike hilly Jerusalem), it’s pretty compact (you can walk from Park Hayarkonin the north to theOld Jaffa portin under two hours) and it’s full of fantastic neighborhoods, each with their distinct vibe and charm. Here are our three suggested itineraries for you - basic, intermediate, and complete.1.Tel Aviv Sightseeing on Foot:Basic RouteStart at the Beit Ha’ir - the Museum of the History of Tel Aviv. It’s a great way to learn about how the city, from its humble beginnings in 1910 to the modern metropolis it’s become. It’s a beautiful building on Bialik Street- close to the Carmel Market, considered one of thebest markets in Tel Aviv - that’s been recently renovated and today is a real cultural hub, with plenty of good exhibitions to see.One of Carmel Market's vegetable standsStep outside and across the street to Bialik House - home to one of Israel’s greatest poets, Haim Nahman Bialik, who lived there (you can see many of his books inside). A pioneer of poetry in both the Hebrew and Yiddish languages, the house was designed in the Bauhaus style and has a lovely interior.Bialik Square in Tel AvivA moment’s walk away, still on Bialik Street, stop at the Rubin Museum. Born in Romania to a poor orthodox Jewishfamily, Ruben studied in Paris before emigrating to British Mandate Palestine in 1923 and subsequently became an accomplished painter, drawing on biblical themes and Holy Land landscapes.The studio where he painted has been preserved and is fascinating to look at and the museum periodically puts on special workshops for children.One of Rubin's wonderful creations (Image source: the official Rubin Museum website)By now, you’re probably ready for lunch, so head over to Nahalat Binyamin - every Tuesday and Friday it hosts a wonderful Arts and Crafts fair where everything sold is made by hand by local artists. Stop for a bite and a coffee at one of the many cafesand restaurants that line its streets.Then, join a Tel Aviv graffiti tourto see for yourself the raw talent of Israel;’s young artists, on the walls of surrounding buildings.2. Tel Aviv Sightseeing on Foot:Intermediate RouteFollow all of the above steps, until you get to lunch - But instead of Nahalat Binyamin, head over to the Yemenite Quarter for lunch - it’s a charming neighborhood, full of tiny streets, small houses, and plenty of great eateries including Cafe Yom Tov and Shlomo and Doron’s hummus restaurant.Nakhlat Binyamin street artAfterwards, head south for about 15-20 minutes and you’ll soon reach Neve Tzedek. It’s one of the city’s most popular areas for tourists and when you wander around you’ll see why - renovated buildings, gorgeous tree-lined back streets, and lots of upmarket boutiques, jewelry stores, and cafes on the main drag, Shazabi Street.Treat yourself to some gelato at Anita, wander past the Suzanne Dellal Modern Dance Center, and then end your walking day by heading over to Rothschild Boulevard. One of the city’s most fashionable and exclusive streets, it’s the perfect place to stroll, enjoy Bauhaus architecture or simply sit with a coffee and engage in some people watching.Suzanne Dallal Center in Tel AvivAnd if you’re hungry now and ready for an early dinner, there are so many top restaurants in Tel Aviv (both around Rothschild Boulevard and beyond) that you will be spoilt for choice.3.Tel Aviv Sightseeing on Foot: TheComplete RouteFor those who have both curiosity and stamina, this one’s for you since not only do you get the above, but also the chance to explore a picturesque and ancient city (which, in case you didn’t know, is actually joined up with Tel Aviv, to make one singular municipality.In the afternoon, follow the steps of our ‘basic’ walking tour but in the morning, begin in the beautiful and historic city of Jaffa, a magical place that really has a flavor all of its own.St. Peter's Church in JaffaStart at the famous Clock Tower (built in Ottoman times) on Yefet Street and then walk five minutes towards the famous Jaffa Flea Market. Once you’ve enjoyed some browsing and coffee, head towards the Mediterranean, via Abrasha Park. Not only will it offer you some stunning panoramic views, but it’s also home to the beautiful Catholic church of St. Peter’s (with an interior that resembles a European cathedral!)Pause at the Wishing Bridge (with all of its zodiac signs) then stroll over to the famous Biblical statue ‘The Gate of Faith’ - made of Galilee stone, which depicts famous events from the Hebrew Bible. Head on to the famous ‘suspended Orange Tree’ and look out to the sea, to Andromeda’s rock. The Suspended Orange Tree (Image source: vivali CC BY 3.0)Then take a wander around the nearby Artist’s Quarter and pop into some of the studios, to meet the people behind the jewelry, paintings, and sculptures on offer - beautiful as gifts and perfect as souvenirs from Israel to take home!From there, you can walk all the way along the beach, via the Carmel Market, and arrive for your afternoon at Bialik Street.For sure, it’s easy to follow any of these walking tour instructions but if you really want the inside story (the history, the culture, the food, the people) then why not consider taking a guided Tel Aviv tour? It’s an ideal way to get the most out of your time and with the services of someone who knows Tel Aviv and Jaffa well, and can answer all your questions (and step in, should you need translations from Hebrew to English!) you’ll see and experience an enormous amount in one day.Tel Aviv is much more than just lovely beaches!If you’re traveling to Israel and want to make the most of your time in the country, we also offer a wide range of day trips, like guided tours in Jerusalem, trips to the Dead Sea, Masada voyages, and much, much more.Feel free to contact us by email or phone for more information and if you’re curious about Israel, take a look at our blog which takes a deep dive into all things related to our country.

Many people who’ve never visited Israel imagine it as a land filled with historic religious sites, ancient fortresses, amphitheaters dating back to the time of King Herod, and museums filled with archaeological treasures. And indeed, cities like Jerusalem, Akko, and Safed are just like that…extraordinary treasures in this Holy Land.What fewer people know is that there’s an exciting, dynamic modern side to the country and whilst no visitor to Jerusalem can fail to be moved by its beautiful stone buildings and Old City walls, don’t imagine a visit to Tel Aviv will disappoint - because it’s got an architectural style all of its own.And it’s called Bauhaus.This design movement has had an extraordinary impact on Tel Aviv and whilst it only began in the 1920’s, it’s shaped the city dramatically.Today, we’re looking at how this architectural style flourished on the streets of Dizengoff, Rothschild and Allenby and why you make time to look at some of its most beloved buildings, when you’re in town.Bauhaus building in Tel AvivWhat is Bauhaus style?‘Bauhaus’ (sometimes referred to as ‘international style’) refers to architecture, furniture, and objects that arose from an early 20th-century design school in Germany, founded by Walter Gropius. Putting the emphasis on functionality and rationality, the Bauhaus style always took the view that ‘less is more’.A typical Bauhaus building, therefore, will always put function above form containing classic modernist elements from curved balconies and ribbon windows (Corbusier style) to white exteriors and outdoor communal spaces - elements you’ll see in Bauhaus buildings all over Tel Aviv today. With their clean lines, lack of decorations, and flat roofs (designed so residents could plant gardens, hang laundry, sleep outside or simply socialize) they are unmissable.When did the Bauhaus movement take off in Tel Aviv?The rise of Bauhaus in Tel Aviv was a direct result of the immigration of thousands of Jews who fled Germany (mainly after the rise of the Nazi party) and arrived in the Holy Land (then controlled by the British Mandate). Between the late 1920’s and early 1940’s, they arrived en masse, hopeful for the eventual establishment of the State of Israel.Tel Aviv's Hertzl Street back in 1930 (Image source: Moshe Ordmann)In the meantime, Tel Aviv was a very young city (it had only been founded in 1910) and so the architects who had immigrated set about their work with gusto. In twenty years, around 4,000 buildings were constructed in this style. They were built in a very practical way, painted white (to reflect the heat in what was a very hot climate), and had a very distinct style!Moreover, adopting the ‘International Style’ in Tel Aviv made economic sense - the country was anything but affluent and so low construction costs were considered to be a major plus for the project.What were the social principles behind the Bauhaus movement?Many of the German Jewish architects who arrived in Tel Aviv were both social and zionist and at the heart of their Bauhaus philosophy was the idea of the collective. Focusing on the idea of ‘social living’ their aim was to build a society of equals and this was reflected in their architecture.Houses they designed had equal surfaces - they were rectangular with flat roofs, the aim being to have equality between top and bottom, and front and back. Each part of the building should support another As with the school building and, in many cases, these buildings looked out onto green, communal spots. These architects were not political revolutionaries - rather they harked back to old ideas of utopian socialism and the idea of belonging to a people.Where can I see Bauhaus buildings in Tel Aviv?With four thousand of them still standing (half of which are protected under preservation laws) Tel Aviv boasts the largest collection of Bauhaus buildings in the world today - and they couldn’t be easier to see, either as part of a Tel Aviv-guided tour or just wandering the city’s streets.Bauhaus building in Rotschild Boulevard, Tel Aviv (Image source: Artem.G CC BY-SA 4.0)Many of the buildings can be found in three distinct areas - Rothschild Boulevard and it’s sidestreets (the historic part of the city), Dizengoff Square and the surrounding area (Dizengoff is regarded by many as Tel Aviv’s most lively and action-packed street) and Bialik Street, close to Allenby and the Carmel Market.There are so many that are worth hunting out but some of the real beauties include:The Cinema Hotel, Dizengoff Street - once a popular Israeli cinema, today it’s a beautiful boutique hotel with a wonderful roof terrace boasting views across the Mediterranean.Krieger House, Rothschild Boulevard - built in 1934, it’s still owned by the family of the famous Tel Aviv physician Moshe Krieger, and it’s been beautifully renovated.Bruno House, Strauss Street - constructed by Ze’ev Haller in 1933, it’s a real classic - everything is plain and white.Nahmani Street 43 - once known as the ‘Red house’ this three storey building, constructed in 1923, was once a textile factory.Bauhaus Museum, Bialik Street - inside this stunning building there’s a small gallery space where you can learn more about the history of design in the White City.Is Bauhaus the reason why Tel Aviv is known as the White City?Yes! The collection of modernist buildings (all painted white) is so famous that in 2003 UNESCO placed them on a World Heritage List as ‘an outstanding example of new town planning and architecture in the early 20th century.” Indeed, Tel Aviv is the only city in the world that is today home to such a large and wonderful collection.Perhaps one of the best ways to really see these unique buildings, up close and personal, is on a walking tour of Tel Aviv. A local guide can really give you the lowdown on what makes this architectural style so special, show you backstreet buildings that you might not find alone, and answer all your questions about why they have become such desirable residences today.Bauhaus building near Dizengoff Street (Image source: Artem.G CC BY-SA 4.0)Finally, don’t forget to visit the Bauhaus Center on Dizengoff Street. It has a lovely gallery and a marvelous shop, full of books, posters, design objects, and even fridge magnets (all perfect if you’re looking for souvenirs from Israel).Whether you’re visiting Israel for the first time, or returning to see more of the country, why not consider taking one of our day trips? We also offer guided Tel Aviv tours, where you can explore food markets and learn about local the Tel Aviv graffiti scene. email or phone and to learn more about the history, culture, and daily life of our country take a look at our blog.

Plan Your VisitOpen Times:Sunday closed. Monday-Thursday 09:00-17:00; Friday, Saturday, and holidays 10:00-14:00.Prices:Free.Average Visit Duration:30 minutes to 2 hours.Popular Times:Mid-day.If you just want to see the building’s facade, then visit at night when it is beautifully illuminated.Special Events:Special events are sometimes held at Beit Ha’Ir during Jewish national holidays andChristian holidays in Israel.Relevant Tours:Private Tel Aviv tourscould include this museum; If you want to get the most out of Beit Ha’Ir it is highly recommended to see it with a PRO guide.The museum is located at 27 Bialek Street at the northern end of Allenby Street just behind Gan Meir. It's fully accessible, and you can combine your visit with a stop at the adjacent Bialik House or the nearby Bauhaus Museum and Reuben Reuven Museum.Beit Ha’Ir translates as “the city house” or “town hall” and this museum is in the historic Tel Aviv City Hall. The museum focuses on the history of the city, and the building is an attraction in its own right. Welcome to Beit Ha'Ir Museum in Tel Aviv!Beit Ha’Ir is part of the Bialik Complex, a hub of culture and entertainment. In addition to the museum exhibitions, Beit Ha’Ir also hosts special events and debates focused on Tel Aviv.History of Beit Ha’IrThis beautiful building was designed by Moshe Cherner, and built in 1925. Just 38 years previously a group of pioneering Jews had left the walled city of Jaffa to set up a new home, a city that would grow to become Tel Aviv. By the time Beit Ha’Ir was constructed, the British ruled Palestine, and Tel Aviv had become a thriving municipality in need of a city hall. Beit Ha’Ir was originally intended as an apartment hotel and owned by Philip and Isidore Skora. They named the building Beit A. Skoura, but soon after, leased and then sold the building to the municipality to be used as the town hall.Beit Ha'Ir in the late 1930sIt served as city hall from 1928 until 1965 when the mayor Meir Dizengoff had his office and hosted dignitaries in his chamber. Many well-known figures passed through Beit Ha’Ir including Ahad Ha’am, Bialik, and British cabinet ministers. when the municipal headquarters moved to a large building on Rabin Square.The Museum of Tel Aviv History opened in Beit Ha’Ir in 1971, although some of the municipal archives remained on the top floor for several years. In 2003 the building became part of the “White City” a UNESCO-recognized part of Tel Aviv where there is an incredibly high concentration of Bauhaus architecture. Beit Ha’Ir itself is designed in the Bauhaus style. The building was restored and redesigned by architect Mayra Kovalsky to preserve the historic architecture and expand the museum’s exhibition space. The museum was renamed in the summer of 2023 and became the Tel Aviv City Museum.What to See at the Beit Ha’Ir MuseumOn the top floor of the museum is the recreated office of Tel Aviv’s first mayor, Meir Dizengoff.The rest of the building has an open-plan exhibition space with regularly rotating exhibits that include photographs, videos, and authentic documents to tell the story of Tel Aviv’s history. Beit Hair night lights (Image source: Dana Menaker CC BY-SA 3.0)The exhibits are more of a collection of stories, rather than displays, they are eclectic, and the museum format has been kept flexible. On display is an impression of the original tile floor, the historic staircase, and the study. But don’t expect to see a historic interior, as the inside of the building has been modernized to accommodate the exhibits. Among the displays is the Tel Aviv Time Machine. Take a virtual tour of the city’s history and see archive material including a computerized database.Pro Tip:Enjoy the view from Dizengoff’s office down the length of Bialik Street which is lined with Bauhaus buildings.