A bit complicated, but here’s an attempt to narrow down Israel’s top attractions to a top ten “must do” list. The Best of the Holy Land in One Ultimate Checklist – These are really must-do things, regardless of whether you’re here for a long weekend or a month.
In no particular order …
- Float in the Dead Sea – The lowest point on Earth is a special place to visit. If you need to relax, and especially if you feel exhausted, the Dead Sea is the ideal place in Israel to visit. Bring your newspaper for that photo opportunity, cover up some of that mineral-rich Dead Sea mud, and then float on your back in the warm, salty sea. Just avoid diving in!
- Tour the Old City, Jerusalem – The Old City of Jerusalem is a must-see as it is home to key religious sites including the Temple Mount, the Western (Wailing) Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Dome of the Rock and al-Aqsa . Mosque. You can easily spend a full day here: place a prayer between the cracks in the huge stones that make up the Western Wall, browse the stalls in the narrow streets of the Old City bazaar, and visit the site of Jesus’ crucifixion. This will probably be your main sightseeing day on your visit to Israel.
- Haggling in the Carmel Market, Tel Aviv – The Carmel Market in central Tel Aviv gives you the opportunity to hone your bargaining skills and get a taste of the real Israel. Starting at the end of Allenby Street, stroll past the many clothing stalls before reaching the epicenter of the market; food and spices. Amazing colors, incredible smells … hear the vendors at the booths hawking their wares and taunting each other about space, prices, quality, or sports equipment. A great day.
- Snorkel or dive in the Red Sea, Eilat – Eilat is the place to go if you want to see an amazing coral reef, beautiful fish and crystal clear waters. Eilat is one of the best dive sites in the world. With good weather practically all year round, this is the place to dust off your snorkel, get acquainted with snuba, and renew or start your passion for scuba diving. Alternatively, for the less adventurous, there is always the impressive Eilat Underwater Observatory. Eilat has its own airport so it’s easy to access, plus it’s just a short drive from the amazing Sinai dives.
- Visit Yad Vashem, Jerusalem – A more sober place to visit, but an important place to visit in order to gain a deeper understanding of Israel, this is Israel’s memorial to the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust. Located on the western outskirts of Jerusalem in Har HaZikaron, the large complex of museums, open-air monuments, exhibition halls with important archives, libraries and other resource centers is spread over 45 acres. Take your time here and prepare to be deeply moved.
- Stand on the edge of the Ramon crater – An astonishing geological feature of the mainly desert south of Israel, located about an hour south of Beersheva. The crater is 40 km long and 2 to 10 km wide, almost heart-shaped and naturally carved by water and climatic erosion. The largest crater in the world, it sinks about 500 m at its deepest point. Get an amazing view of Ramon Crater from the Mitzpeh Ramon Visitor Center, where yes, you can stand on the rim of the largest crater in the world!
- Enjoy a sunset on the beach in Tel Aviv – Tel Aviv’s beautiful sandy beaches are the perfect place to watch a sunset. Accompanied by a beer or wine or whatever you prefer, kick off your shoes and feel the sand between your toes as the Mediterranean gently laps the shoreline a few meters (maybe even centimeters!) Away. You can also relax for the day in one of the many beachside cafes, the choice is yours.
- Visit the mountain fortress of Masada – The mountain fortress of Masada is located on an isolated rocky plateau in southeastern Israel, overlooking the Dead Sea. The story of Masada is one of the Jewish heroics, 1000 inhabitants committing mass suicide instead of surrendering to their Roman enemies. Hike the snake trail to the top of Masada if you’re feeling adventurous; otherwise, take the cable car. Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended due to the heat.
- Marvel at the Baha’i Gardens in Haifa – The magical terraces of the Bahá’ís in Haifa are possibly off the main tourist route. But they really should be added to your visit to Israel. The Bahá’í gardens must be one of the most beautiful in the world and are a monument to the founders of the Bahá’í Faith, attracting pilgrims from all over the world. Free entry, although you must dress modestly. The surrounding area of Haifa is full of things to do and see, including museums, cafes, and a large artists’ colony.
- Spend the night in the city that never sleeps, Tel Aviv – In Tel Aviv, the nightlife is legendary, you can find practically everything you need for a good night out. There are countless bars and clubs, as well as museums, theaters, galleries, dance centers and concert halls for the most cultured night. If you have energy, Tel Aviv can keep you busy until the early hours, including the city’s many restaurants and cafes. During the summer months, try a night out at one of the many beachside cafes and restaurants (oh yeah, feel the sand between your toes!).
Enjoy your visit to Israel!